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Her Name Is Murder
Magical musician Murder LaVoe is tired of running. She's been running for almost 500 years. When you don’t age, people take it personally. She has returned 40 years later to her favorite borough in New York City. Her is to finally settle down and hide her secret by taking the identities of falsified heirs. A public attempt on the life of her Rock-N-Roll alter ego, Lady Dreamscapes , and a chance meeting of immortals in need, threaten to take away the life she holds so dear. Can NYPD detective Grant Noble III solve her mysteries in time to save her, or is it him that needs saving?
191 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2020
54 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
October 22, 2020
Very interesting fantasy read
The world building in the story was just amazing. With Immortals and protectors and the humans, the world within the normal world as we see it, was built very well. The characters, their dialogues were thoroughly enjoyable and fun. Liked it.
The world building in the story was just amazing. With Immortals and protectors and the humans, the world within the normal world as we see it, was built very well. The characters, their dialogues were thoroughly enjoyable and fun. Liked it.
August 7, 2020
A unique modern fairytale.
‘Her Name is Murder’ is a wonderful story that reads like a modern fairytale. It managed to grab my interest from the first pages I read from the sample. The main character, Murder, is too old to mention, but I totally loved her character in the story!
Set in New York, with mentions of Murder’s life in the past, this book has a story full of mystery and intrigue. As a romance lover, I absolutely enjoyed the romance between Murder and Grant. I couldn’t have asked for anything more from this amazing book. I can’t wait to read the next one!
‘Her Name is Murder’ is a wonderful story that reads like a modern fairytale. It managed to grab my interest from the first pages I read from the sample. The main character, Murder, is too old to mention, but I totally loved her character in the story!
Set in New York, with mentions of Murder’s life in the past, this book has a story full of mystery and intrigue. As a romance lover, I absolutely enjoyed the romance between Murder and Grant. I couldn’t have asked for anything more from this amazing book. I can’t wait to read the next one!
February 25, 2023
Entertaining and imaginative, this tale is mostly set in modern New York, but provides snippets of Murder's memorable/historic moments in her 500-odd lifespan. The tone is light but manages moments of true sentimentality. Recommended for anyone who likes a bit of magic in their reading material.
November 23, 2022
I was initially pulled in by the title. A woman whose name is Murder? The intriguing title & cover images were just the beginning.
One thing that really sets Her Name Is Murder apart from other books is the neat mashup of genres. From time travel, to mystery, to history and romance, the tropes of each combine well to create an original, niche story.
I enjoyed the various settings. It's always fun to read a book set somewhere you've been, even if the places are altered somewhat by fantasy.
I liked Murder's character. I did wonder why, in 500 years, she didn't experience as powerful of a love interest, but this emphasizes how significant it is when it does happen. Supporting characters are likeable. It was also neat to see fantastical people interacting within a world that we live in. The juxtaposition created a cool vibe.
Kudos to the author for leaving me wanting more. That's the sign of a compelling read. Glad it's a series! I look forward to seeing where the plot goes.
J.G. MacLeod, author
One thing that really sets Her Name Is Murder apart from other books is the neat mashup of genres. From time travel, to mystery, to history and romance, the tropes of each combine well to create an original, niche story.
I enjoyed the various settings. It's always fun to read a book set somewhere you've been, even if the places are altered somewhat by fantasy.
I liked Murder's character. I did wonder why, in 500 years, she didn't experience as powerful of a love interest, but this emphasizes how significant it is when it does happen. Supporting characters are likeable. It was also neat to see fantastical people interacting within a world that we live in. The juxtaposition created a cool vibe.
Kudos to the author for leaving me wanting more. That's the sign of a compelling read. Glad it's a series! I look forward to seeing where the plot goes.
J.G. MacLeod, author
August 18, 2020
3.5 stars
Interesting Urban/Historical Fantasy
The title may make us think there’s a murder in the story, and well, it certainly is. The main character is named Murder. Her longer name is Murder LaVoe and she’s introduced to the reader as “Lady Dreamscapes”. “My adopted name is Marie Lavot with an o-t. I was born in the late 1530s in France or England. I’m uncertain which; we were right on the English Channel. I can only die if the wound is violent and instantaneous. Levi is my Protector. Modeled from clay from the shores of the North Sea, and given life. He is impervious as long as we live under this curse of the Ageless.”
Murder and her brother Levi are both immortal, somehow their immortality is lasting as long as the two of them stick together and stay out of trouble. Both characters are quite eccentric and all in all, well described. While they live their long life with lots of happening, this time around something is different. For the first time in 500 years, Murder may fall in love. And not only that, but he may be her soul mate. How cool is that? Will they live happily ever after or reach the end in this lifetime? This is not completely a fairy tale because the antagonist is there and things may change. However, some things seemed to be too rushed up, which translated into more of telling than showing.
There are some things that didn’t fully sit right with me but this is nevertheless a nice story with some well-developed elements. It seems to be the first part of the series, hopefully the next installment will solve some of the issues.
More book reviews on: https://www.nicojgenes.com/book-reviews
Interesting Urban/Historical Fantasy
The title may make us think there’s a murder in the story, and well, it certainly is. The main character is named Murder. Her longer name is Murder LaVoe and she’s introduced to the reader as “Lady Dreamscapes”. “My adopted name is Marie Lavot with an o-t. I was born in the late 1530s in France or England. I’m uncertain which; we were right on the English Channel. I can only die if the wound is violent and instantaneous. Levi is my Protector. Modeled from clay from the shores of the North Sea, and given life. He is impervious as long as we live under this curse of the Ageless.”
Murder and her brother Levi are both immortal, somehow their immortality is lasting as long as the two of them stick together and stay out of trouble. Both characters are quite eccentric and all in all, well described. While they live their long life with lots of happening, this time around something is different. For the first time in 500 years, Murder may fall in love. And not only that, but he may be her soul mate. How cool is that? Will they live happily ever after or reach the end in this lifetime? This is not completely a fairy tale because the antagonist is there and things may change. However, some things seemed to be too rushed up, which translated into more of telling than showing.
There are some things that didn’t fully sit right with me but this is nevertheless a nice story with some well-developed elements. It seems to be the first part of the series, hopefully the next installment will solve some of the issues.
More book reviews on: https://www.nicojgenes.com/book-reviews
February 22, 2020
How best to describe this book? A fun riot that I enjoyed every page of. Her Name is Murder is based on a unique premise: immortal beings (not vampires) who have golem-like protectors, and both forms of existence are curses. What happens when a detective falls in love with an immortal named murder? Fun, love, and magical shenanigans. Throw in the Tudors and the Salem Witch trials, and you have this plot, which spans centuries through flashbacks. The dialogue is crisp, and the main characters are good people (or beings) at heart. The tone of the book is fun throughout with good doses of sarcasm. Very much a recommended read :)
October 4, 2020
A wonderful read filled with fantasy and history. The description within the book was well written and drew me into the story. The story itself was well paced and the characters were well developed. With the addition of vintage cars, this book was everything I could want and more!
May 30, 2020
There is a parallel society in our world, right in plain sight yet well-hidden from humans.
It’s a society of immortals, wizards, golems, and other magical creatures. Many live forever or at least for a very long time, and most are very rich, powerful, or famous pop stars or top models.
Welcome to the world of A.C. Merkel’s Her Name is Murder!
As the title suggests, the main protagonist in this unique and highly entertaining story is a woman who has given herself the name Murder. She is an immortal and over 400 years old. And she’s also a famous pop star, enchanting her audience under the stage name Lady Dreamscapes.
She and her golem friend Levi, who is also her Protector, are living the perfect life until one day somebody tries to assassinate Lady Dreamscapes while on stage. After that, the handsome and charming police detective Grant Noble steps into her life, and everything changes…
Her Name is Murder is a fast-paced urban fantasy romance with LBGT themes. There is a whole ensemble of likable, well-developed characters: some of them are quirky, some funny, some heartwarming.
As the story unfolds, the reader learns Murder’s history, which is tied to the British monarchy and spans centuries.
There is a little bit of mystery, some magic, and a lot of romance in this unique book, as the main story revolves around the immortal lady and her handsome detective.
His name, Grant, is no coincidence. He’s not only described as a Cary Grant look-alike, but the whole story has a vintage charm that reminds of old movies from the 40s and 50s.
Her Name is Murder is a bit like Harry Potter for adults and fans of romance, urban fantasy and magical realism will surely enjoy this read very much!
It’s a society of immortals, wizards, golems, and other magical creatures. Many live forever or at least for a very long time, and most are very rich, powerful, or famous pop stars or top models.
Welcome to the world of A.C. Merkel’s Her Name is Murder!
As the title suggests, the main protagonist in this unique and highly entertaining story is a woman who has given herself the name Murder. She is an immortal and over 400 years old. And she’s also a famous pop star, enchanting her audience under the stage name Lady Dreamscapes.
She and her golem friend Levi, who is also her Protector, are living the perfect life until one day somebody tries to assassinate Lady Dreamscapes while on stage. After that, the handsome and charming police detective Grant Noble steps into her life, and everything changes…
Her Name is Murder is a fast-paced urban fantasy romance with LBGT themes. There is a whole ensemble of likable, well-developed characters: some of them are quirky, some funny, some heartwarming.
As the story unfolds, the reader learns Murder’s history, which is tied to the British monarchy and spans centuries.
There is a little bit of mystery, some magic, and a lot of romance in this unique book, as the main story revolves around the immortal lady and her handsome detective.
His name, Grant, is no coincidence. He’s not only described as a Cary Grant look-alike, but the whole story has a vintage charm that reminds of old movies from the 40s and 50s.
Her Name is Murder is a bit like Harry Potter for adults and fans of romance, urban fantasy and magical realism will surely enjoy this read very much!
August 31, 2020
Her Name Is Murder is a magical and whimsical adventure set in modern day NY and travels through time. Merkel crafts a charming tale with intriguing characters. The story begins with the entertaining introduction of Murder LaVoe performing as Lady Dreamscapes with an attempt on her life and it drew me into the book immediately. She meets Detective Grant Noble, a name that cleverly plays on the fact he looks like Cary Grant! That alone made the book a winner for me.
I love hints of nostalgia and throwbacks with pop culture references and this book doesn't disappoint.
The pacing of the book is well done with the right amount of action, tension, and romance. The real charm of the story is the characters. I really enjoyed their uniqueness yet relatability. They made me feel as if I were part of the story with them and what fun that would be!
I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a book that hits upon everything you'd want in a fantasy, romance and sci-fi adventure. I can't wait for book 2 to continue the journey with Lady Dreamscapes and her friends!
I love hints of nostalgia and throwbacks with pop culture references and this book doesn't disappoint.
The pacing of the book is well done with the right amount of action, tension, and romance. The real charm of the story is the characters. I really enjoyed their uniqueness yet relatability. They made me feel as if I were part of the story with them and what fun that would be!
I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a book that hits upon everything you'd want in a fantasy, romance and sci-fi adventure. I can't wait for book 2 to continue the journey with Lady Dreamscapes and her friends!
January 28, 2020
I absolutely LOVED this book! HER NAME IS MURDER is a gem of urban and historical fantasy. A treasure chest of ingenuity, the story is filled to the brim with quick wit, endearing characters, a diverse cast, and inventive concepts. Merkel saturates his world with lavish details amidst his masterful storytelling with an excellent sense of humor that had me laughing out loud at many moments.
Equal parts, gripping, mesmerizing, and spellbinding, HER NAME IS MURDER is an engrossing, action-packed tale of love and intrigue balanced on clever prose with threads of music and aptly placed references to popular culture threaded throughout. Beautifully branded, so many little touches make this book feel like you’re stepping into another universe, wondrously realized, replete with its own literary mood and flavors and magical trademark.
More than anything, this book is enchanting. You’ll ache to join Murder, Grant, Levi, and Tress on their epic adventure and hope you never leave. You could read it a thousand times and still crave more.
Equal parts, gripping, mesmerizing, and spellbinding, HER NAME IS MURDER is an engrossing, action-packed tale of love and intrigue balanced on clever prose with threads of music and aptly placed references to popular culture threaded throughout. Beautifully branded, so many little touches make this book feel like you’re stepping into another universe, wondrously realized, replete with its own literary mood and flavors and magical trademark.
More than anything, this book is enchanting. You’ll ache to join Murder, Grant, Levi, and Tress on their epic adventure and hope you never leave. You could read it a thousand times and still crave more.
May 22, 2020
'Her Name is Murder' is an imaginative, fun, thrilling wild ride. I've never read anything quite like it. Weaving together imaginary and historic figures in a fascinating way, this tale truly shines with the strength of its main character(s). I quite adored Murder and I also really appreciated her brother-sister relationship with Levi, who is also a great character. And Murder and Grant; the hopeless romantic in me is mighty pleased! <3
If you know me, I'm as much an artist as I am writer, and some scenes with Murder were very visual and I could almost see myself painting them. Murder with her red hair and green dress, in these scenes... Maybe you'll see that picture one day!
A rich, imaginative story!
To be fair, there were some parts I had to read again to check who was saying what - some formatting issues maybe, or might have needed a bit of scene embellishment - but on the whole the story and especially the characters were too great to let such things bother my enjoyment.
It's interesting to see what happens next since now... everything's different!
If you know me, I'm as much an artist as I am writer, and some scenes with Murder were very visual and I could almost see myself painting them. Murder with her red hair and green dress, in these scenes... Maybe you'll see that picture one day!
A rich, imaginative story!
To be fair, there were some parts I had to read again to check who was saying what - some formatting issues maybe, or might have needed a bit of scene embellishment - but on the whole the story and especially the characters were too great to let such things bother my enjoyment.
It's interesting to see what happens next since now... everything's different!
June 15, 2020
A book of pure magic! The perfect blend of history, mixed with the excitement of modern day celebrities, detectives, and the “damned”.
Murder is not only a performer, she’s a talented Ageless who wields magic and dazzles people with her mystical green eyes. She is both intimidating and the type of woman you can’t help but want to be friends with. And Merkel’s details when describing Murder’s talent for music makes me wish I could hold a better tune than Grant Noble. (Who by the way DOES say the most perfect of things).
Merkel conjures the sweetest love story in the midst of a magical threat. The protector’s fight for their freedom against more than a curse. Their choice of love and other societal pressures bond them just as tightly. Merkel hits many honest topics in conversation, making the magical world humbled and relatable. You can’t help but love the characters.
Every time I picked up this book, I was drawn into a flashback, a romantic rendezvous, or an adventure. The chapters are the perfect lengths to continue to tell yourself “okay, one more.”
Murder is not only a performer, she’s a talented Ageless who wields magic and dazzles people with her mystical green eyes. She is both intimidating and the type of woman you can’t help but want to be friends with. And Merkel’s details when describing Murder’s talent for music makes me wish I could hold a better tune than Grant Noble. (Who by the way DOES say the most perfect of things).
Merkel conjures the sweetest love story in the midst of a magical threat. The protector’s fight for their freedom against more than a curse. Their choice of love and other societal pressures bond them just as tightly. Merkel hits many honest topics in conversation, making the magical world humbled and relatable. You can’t help but love the characters.
Every time I picked up this book, I was drawn into a flashback, a romantic rendezvous, or an adventure. The chapters are the perfect lengths to continue to tell yourself “okay, one more.”
August 15, 2020
I don't think I've ever used the word 'romp' before, but here we are. Her Name Is Murder is an enjoyable romp through time with a cast of diverse and interesting hero's. There is an interesting mythology and a large cast of interesting characters to get behind, each with enough texture to satisfy your curiosity, but with much more for readers to get their teeth into in future books. Dialogue is fun and snappy, and the story unfolds at a good pace. Jumping back and forth in time always carries the risk of losing tension built in the story, but the scenes are brief and well done so the reader never feels disoriented. There are thrills, spills, reveals, and twists executed smoothly and leading up to a tense conclusion. The antagonist is fun, making me wish I got to spend more time around them and their diabolical plans, and the ending left me wanted more. A great story with characters I got invested in. I look forward to future books from this author.
October 4, 2021
Fantastic story of what it would be like to live through 500 years of history (a secret fantasy of mine) as a person who is different.
Set yourself free: assassins are out to get you so put your seatbelts on its going to be a bumpy ride.
Levi is a golem. Murder is cursed in her mother’s womb with “immortality”. Soul mates/Platonic Friendships over centuries where we get to see the changes in political systems, sexualities, women’s status in society. All of this while staying alive for 500 years with a multitude of careers and witnessing the amazing changes.
I loved the Narrator-Her command of accents, characterization, voices etc- I never lost my place or which character was speaking.
To the author: There better be much more because you really have a hit book here!
Set yourself free: assassins are out to get you so put your seatbelts on its going to be a bumpy ride.
Levi is a golem. Murder is cursed in her mother’s womb with “immortality”. Soul mates/Platonic Friendships over centuries where we get to see the changes in political systems, sexualities, women’s status in society. All of this while staying alive for 500 years with a multitude of careers and witnessing the amazing changes.
I loved the Narrator-Her command of accents, characterization, voices etc- I never lost my place or which character was speaking.
To the author: There better be much more because you really have a hit book here!
July 26, 2022
Her Name is Murder is a delightful tale that will keep you guessing until the very end.
This was a very unique story filled with a lovable cast of characters that I instantly grew attached to. Murder is a heroine we all aspire to be, while her friends and even enemies are both relatable and interesting characters that captured my attention from their first appearance.
Although things moved too fast for me at times I enjoyed this well thought out plot dotted with love, death, and magic. Her Name is Murder has something for everyone and I will definitely be reading more by this author.
This was a very unique story filled with a lovable cast of characters that I instantly grew attached to. Murder is a heroine we all aspire to be, while her friends and even enemies are both relatable and interesting characters that captured my attention from their first appearance.
Although things moved too fast for me at times I enjoyed this well thought out plot dotted with love, death, and magic. Her Name is Murder has something for everyone and I will definitely be reading more by this author.
October 13, 2020
Wildly imaginative fantasy.
June 23, 2022
Brimming with action, adventure and romance
What I applaud about this book is the title - 'Her Name is Murder'. I've never been sweet on the title of a book the way I delight in this one. And stealing words from Murder's soul mate, Grant, 'An ugly word made lovely by mere possession'.
Author Merkel also keeps the reader engaged as his characters skip from one adventure to another, always having each other's backs and looking out for their friends. Music forms an integral part of this fantasy romance and at the same time the allusion to the Tudors leaves you wanting more.
I am a sucker for love I confess and though this book is action packed the chemistry between Grant and Murder is mellow, soothing and at the same time profound and thundering.
Immortality has been explored to the death in all fantasy books yet author, Merkel manages to bring his indomitable, bodacious and unabashed style to his story telling effecting a distinct mark on the reader.
Her Name is Murder is a fantasy but as someone once told me, when it comes down to the brass tacks this book is all about love.
What I applaud about this book is the title - 'Her Name is Murder'. I've never been sweet on the title of a book the way I delight in this one. And stealing words from Murder's soul mate, Grant, 'An ugly word made lovely by mere possession'.
Author Merkel also keeps the reader engaged as his characters skip from one adventure to another, always having each other's backs and looking out for their friends. Music forms an integral part of this fantasy romance and at the same time the allusion to the Tudors leaves you wanting more.
I am a sucker for love I confess and though this book is action packed the chemistry between Grant and Murder is mellow, soothing and at the same time profound and thundering.
Immortality has been explored to the death in all fantasy books yet author, Merkel manages to bring his indomitable, bodacious and unabashed style to his story telling effecting a distinct mark on the reader.
Her Name is Murder is a fantasy but as someone once told me, when it comes down to the brass tacks this book is all about love.
May 19, 2021
When Murder takes the stage as her rock-n-roll alter ego, Lady Dreamscapes, not everyone is excited to see her perform. A random shot causes panic in the crowd and terror on the stage. Detective Grant Noble is on the case--as he sifts through the clues, he uncovers a mysterious past and intense connection with the dazzling star. Danger threatens their every move--will Grant and Murder survive a threatening nemesis?
Protectors, charges and immortals emerge as they attempt to break the scourge that has descended into the city. Friend or foe, who can be trusted? We're swept back and forth through time, learning more of Murder's exceptional past and the events that have shaped her destiny. Can her immortal existence continue?
Author Merkel weaves a tale of time traveling intrigue in this original story. History merges with current day life, with many surprising characters and mystical twists and turns. I really enjoyed this intriguing, sci-fi tale and look forward to future reads in the series, highly recommended!
Protectors, charges and immortals emerge as they attempt to break the scourge that has descended into the city. Friend or foe, who can be trusted? We're swept back and forth through time, learning more of Murder's exceptional past and the events that have shaped her destiny. Can her immortal existence continue?
Author Merkel weaves a tale of time traveling intrigue in this original story. History merges with current day life, with many surprising characters and mystical twists and turns. I really enjoyed this intriguing, sci-fi tale and look forward to future reads in the series, highly recommended!
April 20, 2020
IndieApril read
First, this caveat; paranormal or supernatural romance novels have never been on my list of things to read. So this is my first in this genre. I've read books about immortals before, but none like tterhis. It was an enjoyable read with interesting characters and a. Good story line. I enjoyed the read, and would recommend to fans of this genre.
First, this caveat; paranormal or supernatural romance novels have never been on my list of things to read. So this is my first in this genre. I've read books about immortals before, but none like tterhis. It was an enjoyable read with interesting characters and a. Good story line. I enjoyed the read, and would recommend to fans of this genre.
August 2, 2021
Fantasy is not usually my go-to genre, but I enjoyed my time with Murder, hopping through time on a fun adventure. Some of the characters were well-written and I particularly enjoyed Levi, Murder’s brother, who I found to be very ‘down to earth’!
With great musical and historical references, this is a fun, little read.
With great musical and historical references, this is a fun, little read.
September 26, 2021
There is SO much to love here, from the unique lore to a heroine who’s clever, talented, and compassionate to the great balance of mystery, romance, and action. As a pansexual trans man, I adored the inclusion of bisexual and trans characters who were not only accurately AND creatively portrayed, but were not haphazardly thrown in to gain points for diversity.
My confession is that I I didn’t read the summary before diving in and didn’t realize that Murder was actually the woman’s name. I thought ‘Her Name is Murder’ was an artsy remark and while it may be that too, it is also the character’s true name. I’m sharing this because I wanted to comment on how this in itself was just another little thing that made the book endearing. It’s even more so once you read the story and find out why that is her name.
The characters are all very likable and the author has written them in a way that makes them feel real. Along with this, the book overall was expertly written in terms of grammar, vocabulary, and style. It’s a fast-paced yet expansive atmosphere that keeps the reader’s attention every step of the way. While being a familiar world, it contains fresh takes on both known and new beings, their reactions, their interactions, and their personalities.
It was loads of fun to explore the present and pasts of every single person in this book and look toward the future with them. I’ve got book two on my reading list and am looking forward to see how the plans they’ve initiated in this first installment will play out.
My confession is that I I didn’t read the summary before diving in and didn’t realize that Murder was actually the woman’s name. I thought ‘Her Name is Murder’ was an artsy remark and while it may be that too, it is also the character’s true name. I’m sharing this because I wanted to comment on how this in itself was just another little thing that made the book endearing. It’s even more so once you read the story and find out why that is her name.
The characters are all very likable and the author has written them in a way that makes them feel real. Along with this, the book overall was expertly written in terms of grammar, vocabulary, and style. It’s a fast-paced yet expansive atmosphere that keeps the reader’s attention every step of the way. While being a familiar world, it contains fresh takes on both known and new beings, their reactions, their interactions, and their personalities.
It was loads of fun to explore the present and pasts of every single person in this book and look toward the future with them. I’ve got book two on my reading list and am looking forward to see how the plans they’ve initiated in this first installment will play out.
August 3, 2020
What an amazing book this was! It kept me hooked from the start all the way to the end. Murder was an interesting character. I was given the opportunity to know her through the ages. When she mate Grant, it just got better. I can relate to finding that one person that completes you. Levi captured my heart from the beginning. The relationship between Levi & Murder, brother and sister, a strong bond, that most blood related siblings never get to enjoy. I rushed through the book, only because I had to see what happened next. When I got to the end, I hated to say goodbye.
If you're not sure about the book, get it. I'm sure you won't be sorry. I'm certainly not!
The only reason it did get 5 stars, it had a few missing punctuations, missing periods, and (I found 1) misplaced quotation mark. Other than that, very well written!
If you're not sure about the book, get it. I'm sure you won't be sorry. I'm certainly not!
The only reason it did get 5 stars, it had a few missing punctuations, missing periods, and (I found 1) misplaced quotation mark. Other than that, very well written!
May 16, 2020
A musical murderous magical page-Turner!
The tale of Murder LaVoe is an unexpected and imaginative adventure. I really enjoyed the way the characters in this story came together to form a unit but had their own lives. The author has a large cast to play with and covers many walks of life in this world of magical realism. There is a real sense of depth to the world that has been created and to the integration of hidden magic into our own world. The pace is very fast and there are layers upon layers of Murder's history drip-fed to the reader as key moments from her past are revealed at opportune moments. An excellent adventure with a satisfying conclusion. Looking forward to more from the author!!
The tale of Murder LaVoe is an unexpected and imaginative adventure. I really enjoyed the way the characters in this story came together to form a unit but had their own lives. The author has a large cast to play with and covers many walks of life in this world of magical realism. There is a real sense of depth to the world that has been created and to the integration of hidden magic into our own world. The pace is very fast and there are layers upon layers of Murder's history drip-fed to the reader as key moments from her past are revealed at opportune moments. An excellent adventure with a satisfying conclusion. Looking forward to more from the author!!
June 28, 2020
I loved Her Name Is Murder when I read the ebook. I thought it was fantastic and fun, mysterious and witty, and I definitely fell hard for Grant, a quick love affair that apparently has just increased over time.
I was lucky enough to snatch up this gem of an audiobook and just when I thought I had really enjoyed this story, Jaimee Moore blew me out of the water. The french accent, the southern belle, the British, GRANT... for the love of all that's holy, GRANT. Let's just say, I listened to this in one sitting, lost a day and I will do it all over again!!
From the bottom of my very soul I loved this and would strongly urge you to love it tooooooooo!
I was lucky enough to snatch up this gem of an audiobook and just when I thought I had really enjoyed this story, Jaimee Moore blew me out of the water. The french accent, the southern belle, the British, GRANT... for the love of all that's holy, GRANT. Let's just say, I listened to this in one sitting, lost a day and I will do it all over again!!
From the bottom of my very soul I loved this and would strongly urge you to love it tooooooooo!
February 27, 2020
I really loved Her Name is Murder. A.C. Merkel does a great job developing characters and creating a magical urban fantasy world where immortal beings and their intriguing protectors take the reader on an enjoyable ride.
The book is packed with witty banter, fun, humor, suspense, and romance. There is a little bit of everything. I love the inclusion of diverse characters, the historic and popular culture references, and the care put into crafting this world.
I was engaged from beginning to end. This was a very enjoyable read. Go read it now!
The book is packed with witty banter, fun, humor, suspense, and romance. There is a little bit of everything. I love the inclusion of diverse characters, the historic and popular culture references, and the care put into crafting this world.
I was engaged from beginning to end. This was a very enjoyable read. Go read it now!
May 10, 2020
There were so many details I loved about this book - the vintage cars, the love letters, the joy of going for a drive just because, the song references. Murder, Grant and Levi were all characters I backed from the start. So many great fantasy elements wrapped into a modern setting with history and music - this was a really fun, fast read that had me hooked from the first page.
October 20, 2020
4-Stars!
Her Name is Murder comes together very well at the end, with perhaps the best wedding scene I've read in fantasy, which didn't include archers dressed as the the entertainment, because that's something else. Its transformiative sequences are illuminative and fantastic like Fantasia, and the preperation that must be done to pull them off (ie: the book's creative and unique magic system) competed with the best similar scenes and systems I've read of all year. They were also original and fulfilling. Her Name is Murder misses very few beats, and deliveres an impactful, thought-provoking read in a meager 190 pages, which is quite impressive considering some of the 400+ page beheamounts I've read.
Although, fully understanding the plot and characters presented to the reader will constitute at least an elementary knowledge of modern fandoms, or religions, cults, myths & lore, English heritage, american and european history from the 1500s on, that is good to understand, or many of the innuendos the book's many puns may go over your head. College aged readers and up, I would think. At first I got kind of bothered that there were Harry Potter references, but then I learned to accept them as a bit of a deeper meta commentary the book offeres, when the aspects of Christianity and its canon were brought into play later on in the plot. It's not very preachy, which is a good thing, however, the narrative is also quick to have an ageless that mis-genders her protector, quite often. This isn't a problem, in fact I really like this piece that could appeal to any enlightened individual reader in this day and age, be they atheist, or christian, or lgbt+, what's disappointing is that there isn't enough time to properly explore all the mistreatments of protectors by their ageless, to fully feel empathetic to the revolution as it comes together. We're told how bad most of the protectors are, but we rarely see it written out on page, which I thought lessened the effect. While this book can go from funny and romantic, to horrifying with a dark sense of humor in mere pages, I think it's shorter lenght may have stifled a more consistent captured potential.
Perhaps the most disappointing part of Her Name is Murder is its limited scope and whirlwind style of delivery. As the delivery came together very well in the key sequences and at the end, culminating in a compelling read, getting whipped around from place to place and pov to pov in the beginning for scenes that last as short as some did made it difficult for me to keep up. I also thought this made the narrator seem distant from the characters and their development as well. Although most of the characters are well-developed from the backstory, it somewhat relies again on the readers understanding of other material to have it's full effect.
I had fun, and I think I'd read a sequel. My biggest suggestion would be for you to leave your feet in the wet sand a little longer with your next work, Merkel, but the way you blended Europe and the West, Christianity and free-thinking, historical fantasy meets modern fandoms is remarkable and something I certainly took note of.
Her Name is Murder comes together very well at the end, with perhaps the best wedding scene I've read in fantasy, which didn't include archers dressed as the the entertainment, because that's something else. Its transformiative sequences are illuminative and fantastic like Fantasia, and the preperation that must be done to pull them off (ie: the book's creative and unique magic system) competed with the best similar scenes and systems I've read of all year. They were also original and fulfilling. Her Name is Murder misses very few beats, and deliveres an impactful, thought-provoking read in a meager 190 pages, which is quite impressive considering some of the 400+ page beheamounts I've read.
Although, fully understanding the plot and characters presented to the reader will constitute at least an elementary knowledge of modern fandoms, or religions, cults, myths & lore, English heritage, american and european history from the 1500s on, that is good to understand, or many of the innuendos the book's many puns may go over your head. College aged readers and up, I would think. At first I got kind of bothered that there were Harry Potter references, but then I learned to accept them as a bit of a deeper meta commentary the book offeres, when the aspects of Christianity and its canon were brought into play later on in the plot. It's not very preachy, which is a good thing, however, the narrative is also quick to have an ageless that mis-genders her protector, quite often. This isn't a problem, in fact I really like this piece that could appeal to any enlightened individual reader in this day and age, be they atheist, or christian, or lgbt+, what's disappointing is that there isn't enough time to properly explore all the mistreatments of protectors by their ageless, to fully feel empathetic to the revolution as it comes together. We're told how bad most of the protectors are, but we rarely see it written out on page, which I thought lessened the effect. While this book can go from funny and romantic, to horrifying with a dark sense of humor in mere pages, I think it's shorter lenght may have stifled a more consistent captured potential.
Perhaps the most disappointing part of Her Name is Murder is its limited scope and whirlwind style of delivery. As the delivery came together very well in the key sequences and at the end, culminating in a compelling read, getting whipped around from place to place and pov to pov in the beginning for scenes that last as short as some did made it difficult for me to keep up. I also thought this made the narrator seem distant from the characters and their development as well. Although most of the characters are well-developed from the backstory, it somewhat relies again on the readers understanding of other material to have it's full effect.
I had fun, and I think I'd read a sequel. My biggest suggestion would be for you to leave your feet in the wet sand a little longer with your next work, Merkel, but the way you blended Europe and the West, Christianity and free-thinking, historical fantasy meets modern fandoms is remarkable and something I certainly took note of.
October 30, 2020
A wonderful story
I've stayed up way past my bedtime to finish this wonderful story! The story includes a lot of great representation that is really refreshing to see.
I'll definitely be picking up the sequel!
I've stayed up way past my bedtime to finish this wonderful story! The story includes a lot of great representation that is really refreshing to see.
I'll definitely be picking up the sequel!
September 5, 2020
A great story with likable characters and real stakes.
This was a really interesting read. The world felt very fleshed out, and the fantasy elements were integrated well.
*no definite spoilers, but some mild spoiler adjacent references ahead*
You could really feel the weight of years, and curses, on all the immortal characters, and the very real feeling that, for some, immortality isn't all it's cracked up to be, especially for those suffering because of the individuals they're bound to.
The relationship between Murder and Grant managed to capture the feel of a whirlwind, whilst being grounded and earned. There was never a point where things felt realistic, and, although not the most exciting romance I've read recently, was definitely enough to keep me invested.
I also was also particularly fond of the sibling bound between Levi and Murder, they really felt like a pair who'd been best friends for a long time.
As for the story itself, all the twists and turns it does take are worth the time taken to get to there, and I never felt as though I were trying to second guess or predict the plot. All in all a very enjoyable read.
This was a really interesting read. The world felt very fleshed out, and the fantasy elements were integrated well.
*no definite spoilers, but some mild spoiler adjacent references ahead*
You could really feel the weight of years, and curses, on all the immortal characters, and the very real feeling that, for some, immortality isn't all it's cracked up to be, especially for those suffering because of the individuals they're bound to.
The relationship between Murder and Grant managed to capture the feel of a whirlwind, whilst being grounded and earned. There was never a point where things felt realistic, and, although not the most exciting romance I've read recently, was definitely enough to keep me invested.
I also was also particularly fond of the sibling bound between Levi and Murder, they really felt like a pair who'd been best friends for a long time.
As for the story itself, all the twists and turns it does take are worth the time taken to get to there, and I never felt as though I were trying to second guess or predict the plot. All in all a very enjoyable read.
October 21, 2020
The relationships between the characters is the real star of this book. Its hard to find a novel where lovers and friends communicate well and have each others' backs. This book has all that and more.
Such a refreshing change to read about healthy relationships for a change.
Such a refreshing change to read about healthy relationships for a change.
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