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Rosa Reed #5
Murder and Rock 'n Roll
Coming October 29 ~ Add to your TBR pile now!
Murder is a hit!
It's the summer of 1956 and Private Investigator Rosa Reed (former Woman Police Constable from the London Metropolitan Police) attends her first rock and roll concert featuring the young and upcoming music sensation Elvis Presley. The high note goes sour when a press photographer is found dead onstage and Rosa is called in to investigate. When the apparent suicide is deemed to be a murder, she is once again called upon to work side by side with her former flame, Detective Miguel Belmonte. Will Rosa keep her heart in line and find the killer before she has to sing the blues?
234 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2020
413 people are currently reading
944 people want to read
About the author
Lee Strauss
129 books2,339 followersFor fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
October 25, 2020
Murder and Rock 'n Roll by Lee and Norm Strauss is another slip back in time to the 1950's where rock 'n roll is just beginning to emerge as the music for teens. It was a fun visit that brought back a few memories for me as I read. I loved that both Elvis Presley and the Everly Brothers made an appearance in Santa Bonita.
A smoothly paced plot with a murder, a suspicious death,twists, turns, a few suspects with no alibis and even a car chase with Rosa driving. I felt a little sorry for Rosa as she worked closely with Miguel on this one and it was hard on her heart. Rosa is smart and her and Miguel do make a great investigative team. However, Rosa's American family does have expectations for her, so only time will tell.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
A smoothly paced plot with a murder, a suspicious death,twists, turns, a few suspects with no alibis and even a car chase with Rosa driving. I felt a little sorry for Rosa as she worked closely with Miguel on this one and it was hard on her heart. Rosa is smart and her and Miguel do make a great investigative team. However, Rosa's American family does have expectations for her, so only time will tell.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. All of the above opinions are my own.
November 1, 2020
Chapter 1
Despite her efforts to restrain bubbling excitement, Rosa Reed couldn’t help but let out a low-pitched squeal. Her British upbringing, with its emphasis on keeping a “stiff upper lip,” made this uncharacteristic sound unusual. Even her sleepy cat, Diego, who was curled up in the center of her four-poster bed, glared at her through narrow yellow-green eyes.
Rosa emitted a chuckle and vigorously rubbed his ears in retaliation. “I know it means nothing to you, Diego, but it’s Elvis Presley!”
A year previous, Rosa would’ve been hard-pressed to recite a tidbit of trivia about the young music star, but now it was as though Elvis Presley were everywhere—one couldn’t get away from hearing his music on the radio, seeing his face on the cover of magazines, and watching him on The Ed Sullivan Show.
And he was in Santa Bonita!
Pure serendipity, since the concert had been booked before Elvis had become a national sensation. Rosa’s main squeeze, Dr. Larry Rayburn, the town’s assistant medical examiner, had gotten tickets for them, and Rosa couldn’t wait for their evening to begin. She turned back to her bedroom mirror and added finishing touches to her makeup. After agonizing over several outfits, Rosa had decided on a two-tone navy-blue and red dress with a form-fitting bodice, accentuating her new “bullet bra.” Wearing her flouncy red skirt with a full crinoline slip would be fun for the upbeat event that an Elvis Presley concert promised to be. She suspected that many of the attendees would be teenagers. Though she was closer to thirty than twenty, Rosa felt young at heart, perhaps because, despite a failed attempt, she’d yet to marry and start a family.
The melody of “Blue Moon,” a song that had frequently been playing on local radio, reached Rosa from down the hall. Rosa had recently relocated to California from London, England, and lived with her American relatives in a large home known as the Forrester mansion. Gloria Forrester, Rosa’s cousin, who was closer to twenty than thirty, prepared to go to the concert with her friend Marjorie.
“Without a dream in my heaaaaart,” they sang loudly in unison.
Curious as to what the two girls were up to, Rosa tapped on the partially opened door before entering Gloria’s colorful bedroom.
“Oh, Rosa,” Gloria trilled. “I’m so excited; my knees are like marshmallows!”
Marjorie stared at the cardboard cover of the long-playing record they were listening to and swooned over the picture of Elvis, his smiling face large and inviting. “He’s just so dreamy!”
Rosa laughed. “I hope you two will survive the night.” She looked at Marjorie. “Is your sister going to be there?”
When Rosa had lived with the Forrester family to escape the dangers of German bombs over London, Nancy Kline became a high school friend.
“Yes,” Marjorie said. “She practically had to force Eddie to take her. I told her she could go with us, but I guess we’re too uncivilized for her. I swear, sometimes she acts older than our mother.”
“Three young sons might do that to someone,” Rosa said.
Although Gloria and Marjorie acted like teenagers, they were in their early twenties. Most girls their age were married or engaged. But Rosa had missed marrying her high school sweetheart, Miguel Belmonte, who now happened to be a detective in the Santa Bonita Police Force. Their romance, forbidden by Aunt Louisa, had been short but intense. When World War II ended, Rosa had been sent back to England, forcing the young couple’s relationship to dissolve.
Now she had Larry on her arm, a funny and kind Texan, and couldn’t be more thankful.
Yes, she was thankful.
Miguel’s engagement to Charlene Winters had thawed, rather, had disintegrated, and in a shockingly public way, and suddenly, Miguel was single again. Even though Rosa’s heart was still pulled toward Miguel, she refused to break the heart of her sincere and lovely boyfriend, over a once-fiery teenage love.
It wouldn’t be fair.
Returning to her bedroom, Rosa scooped Diego from the bed, headed downstairs, and walked along the wide hallway and into the kitchen at the back of the mansion. Señora Gomez, the long-time housekeeper, greeted Rosa and Diego with her standard warm smile.
“You look nice, Miss Rosa.”
“Thank you. I hope I’m not overdressed.”
“This Elvis fellow is very famous now, eh?”
“They call him an overnight sensation.”
Rosa set Diego on the tile floor, and he immediately investigated the status of his food and water bowls, both full, thanks to Señora Gomez.
Through the vast windows, Rosa spotted two members of her American family and joined them on the patio overlooking the pool, tennis court, and vast gardens. Palm trees dotted the well-manicured lawns, and Rosa loved the tropical essence the trees evoked. The mansion itself was a sprawling mission-style edifice that had Rosa gasping in admiration, even on her second visit.
“Join us for a cocktail?” The invitation came from Aunt Louisa, technically Rosa’s half-aunt, as she and Rosa’s mother, Ginger, shared a father but not a mother. Her aunt, dressed in a top-of-the-line, blue satin cocktail dress with triangular capped sleeves and a waist narrow enough to make a much younger woman envious, gave off the sophistication that her wealth and status demanded.
Rosa hardly felt she could refuse the drink. She lowered herself to the edge of one of the loungers, not wanting to get too comfortable, as she expected Larry to arrive soon.
“Just a small one,” Rosa said. “I’ll be leaving shortly.”
Aunt Louisa called to Ricardo, the pool boy, who hovered nearby. “A piña colada for Miss Reed.” She glanced at Rosa for approval, and Rosa nodded.
“Are you going to that Elvis Presley thing?” Sally Hartigan asked, a hint of her Boston accent remaining. The eldest occupant of the Forrester mansion, she was Aunt Louisa’s Boston-born mother, and though not related to Rosa by blood, she insisted Rosa call her Grandma Sally. The lady’s permanently tanned face had wrinkled through her seventy-plus years, but her gray hair was professionally permed and her perfectly pressed dress was tailored just for her. She lifted a glass of amber that tinkled with ice in Rosa’s direction.
“Yes,” Rosa answered. “I’m waiting for Larry to pick me up.”
Grandma Sally scowled. “I’ve seen Mr. Presley on television. The way he wiggles about onstage is uncouth.”
“It’s the new music, Mother,” Aunt Louisa said, taking a sip of her drink. “Rock and Roll.”
“It’s vulgar,” Grandma Sally muttered. “Young people these days have no manners. No respect for their elders.”
“I’m sure they’re not all like that,” Rosa said.
Ricardo returned with the piña colada, attractively garnished with a slice of fresh pineapple. Rosa thanked him before taking a sip.
“It’s not safe to cross the street,” Grandma Sally insisted. “Just the other day, we were nearly run over by a young man—his car radio blaring that crazy music—speeding down Main, right, Louisa?”
“I’m going to talk to the mayor about putting in another set of traffic lights,” Aunt Louisa replied. “And a lower speed limit. Something they’ll enforce. What do the police do around Santa Bonita, anyway?”
Rosa and her aunt didn’t land on the same side in their opinions about the police. Rosa’s job as a private investigator often caused her path to cross with the local men in blue along with a certain well-dressed detective that her aunt had never forgiven. Rosa found it best to steer away from the topic when it came up.
“And don’t forget,” Aunt Louisa added, “our annual fundraiser for Santa Bonita Veterans’ Foundation is happening in a few days at that same theater you’re going to tonight.” She raised a dark, professionally plucked eyebrow at Rosa. “I hope you’ve marked it on your calendar.”
“Oh, yes. I am looking forward to that,” Rosa returned, thankful that they’d moved off the subject of the police.
Señora Gomez entered the patio with quick steps. “Telephone for you, Miss Rosa,” she called out. “It’s your doctor amigo.”
Rosa checked her watch. Larry should be driving his truck up their drive, not calling on the telephone. She excused herself and followed Señora Gomez back into the kitchen where she picked up the receiver.
“Larry?”
“Hello, darlin’,” Larry said.
Rosa thought his voice sounded a little weak. “Are you all right?”
“I’m sorry to do this to ya, but I can’t make it to the concert tonight. I had a migraine come on strong about an hour ago. I don’t get them often, but when I do, they hit me like a runaway locomotive.”
“Oh no.” Rosa’s heart dropped. As much as she was concerned for Larry’s health, she was dreadfully disappointed not to go to the Elvis Presley concert.
As if he read her mind, he said, “You can still go. I’ll send a cabbie to you to deliver the tickets. Maybe you could take a friend.”
Rosa’s mind worked hurriedly. She could go with Gloria and Marjorie, and perhaps she could convince Clarence to join them. Since his wife had left him and his young daughter, he did nothing but mope about. It would be good for him.
“If you don’t mind?”
“Not at all. I’d feel terrible if you missed out on my account. You’re doin’ me a favor by goin’.”
“Well, if you’re certain.”
His warm Texan accent reassured her. “Darn tootin’, I am.”
It was a consolation prize, but Rosa took it.”
“Thank you, Larry. I’ll take pictures and be sure to tell you all about it. It’s going to be a momentous event.”
GET IT TODAY
Amazon: https://smarturl.it/RRrocknroll
Paperback: https://smarturl.it/RR-Rock-paperback
Despite her efforts to restrain bubbling excitement, Rosa Reed couldn’t help but let out a low-pitched squeal. Her British upbringing, with its emphasis on keeping a “stiff upper lip,” made this uncharacteristic sound unusual. Even her sleepy cat, Diego, who was curled up in the center of her four-poster bed, glared at her through narrow yellow-green eyes.
Rosa emitted a chuckle and vigorously rubbed his ears in retaliation. “I know it means nothing to you, Diego, but it’s Elvis Presley!”
A year previous, Rosa would’ve been hard-pressed to recite a tidbit of trivia about the young music star, but now it was as though Elvis Presley were everywhere—one couldn’t get away from hearing his music on the radio, seeing his face on the cover of magazines, and watching him on The Ed Sullivan Show.
And he was in Santa Bonita!
Pure serendipity, since the concert had been booked before Elvis had become a national sensation. Rosa’s main squeeze, Dr. Larry Rayburn, the town’s assistant medical examiner, had gotten tickets for them, and Rosa couldn’t wait for their evening to begin. She turned back to her bedroom mirror and added finishing touches to her makeup. After agonizing over several outfits, Rosa had decided on a two-tone navy-blue and red dress with a form-fitting bodice, accentuating her new “bullet bra.” Wearing her flouncy red skirt with a full crinoline slip would be fun for the upbeat event that an Elvis Presley concert promised to be. She suspected that many of the attendees would be teenagers. Though she was closer to thirty than twenty, Rosa felt young at heart, perhaps because, despite a failed attempt, she’d yet to marry and start a family.
The melody of “Blue Moon,” a song that had frequently been playing on local radio, reached Rosa from down the hall. Rosa had recently relocated to California from London, England, and lived with her American relatives in a large home known as the Forrester mansion. Gloria Forrester, Rosa’s cousin, who was closer to twenty than thirty, prepared to go to the concert with her friend Marjorie.
“Without a dream in my heaaaaart,” they sang loudly in unison.
Curious as to what the two girls were up to, Rosa tapped on the partially opened door before entering Gloria’s colorful bedroom.
“Oh, Rosa,” Gloria trilled. “I’m so excited; my knees are like marshmallows!”
Marjorie stared at the cardboard cover of the long-playing record they were listening to and swooned over the picture of Elvis, his smiling face large and inviting. “He’s just so dreamy!”
Rosa laughed. “I hope you two will survive the night.” She looked at Marjorie. “Is your sister going to be there?”
When Rosa had lived with the Forrester family to escape the dangers of German bombs over London, Nancy Kline became a high school friend.
“Yes,” Marjorie said. “She practically had to force Eddie to take her. I told her she could go with us, but I guess we’re too uncivilized for her. I swear, sometimes she acts older than our mother.”
“Three young sons might do that to someone,” Rosa said.
Although Gloria and Marjorie acted like teenagers, they were in their early twenties. Most girls their age were married or engaged. But Rosa had missed marrying her high school sweetheart, Miguel Belmonte, who now happened to be a detective in the Santa Bonita Police Force. Their romance, forbidden by Aunt Louisa, had been short but intense. When World War II ended, Rosa had been sent back to England, forcing the young couple’s relationship to dissolve.
Now she had Larry on her arm, a funny and kind Texan, and couldn’t be more thankful.
Yes, she was thankful.
Miguel’s engagement to Charlene Winters had thawed, rather, had disintegrated, and in a shockingly public way, and suddenly, Miguel was single again. Even though Rosa’s heart was still pulled toward Miguel, she refused to break the heart of her sincere and lovely boyfriend, over a once-fiery teenage love.
It wouldn’t be fair.
Returning to her bedroom, Rosa scooped Diego from the bed, headed downstairs, and walked along the wide hallway and into the kitchen at the back of the mansion. Señora Gomez, the long-time housekeeper, greeted Rosa and Diego with her standard warm smile.
“You look nice, Miss Rosa.”
“Thank you. I hope I’m not overdressed.”
“This Elvis fellow is very famous now, eh?”
“They call him an overnight sensation.”
Rosa set Diego on the tile floor, and he immediately investigated the status of his food and water bowls, both full, thanks to Señora Gomez.
Through the vast windows, Rosa spotted two members of her American family and joined them on the patio overlooking the pool, tennis court, and vast gardens. Palm trees dotted the well-manicured lawns, and Rosa loved the tropical essence the trees evoked. The mansion itself was a sprawling mission-style edifice that had Rosa gasping in admiration, even on her second visit.
“Join us for a cocktail?” The invitation came from Aunt Louisa, technically Rosa’s half-aunt, as she and Rosa’s mother, Ginger, shared a father but not a mother. Her aunt, dressed in a top-of-the-line, blue satin cocktail dress with triangular capped sleeves and a waist narrow enough to make a much younger woman envious, gave off the sophistication that her wealth and status demanded.
Rosa hardly felt she could refuse the drink. She lowered herself to the edge of one of the loungers, not wanting to get too comfortable, as she expected Larry to arrive soon.
“Just a small one,” Rosa said. “I’ll be leaving shortly.”
Aunt Louisa called to Ricardo, the pool boy, who hovered nearby. “A piña colada for Miss Reed.” She glanced at Rosa for approval, and Rosa nodded.
“Are you going to that Elvis Presley thing?” Sally Hartigan asked, a hint of her Boston accent remaining. The eldest occupant of the Forrester mansion, she was Aunt Louisa’s Boston-born mother, and though not related to Rosa by blood, she insisted Rosa call her Grandma Sally. The lady’s permanently tanned face had wrinkled through her seventy-plus years, but her gray hair was professionally permed and her perfectly pressed dress was tailored just for her. She lifted a glass of amber that tinkled with ice in Rosa’s direction.
“Yes,” Rosa answered. “I’m waiting for Larry to pick me up.”
Grandma Sally scowled. “I’ve seen Mr. Presley on television. The way he wiggles about onstage is uncouth.”
“It’s the new music, Mother,” Aunt Louisa said, taking a sip of her drink. “Rock and Roll.”
“It’s vulgar,” Grandma Sally muttered. “Young people these days have no manners. No respect for their elders.”
“I’m sure they’re not all like that,” Rosa said.
Ricardo returned with the piña colada, attractively garnished with a slice of fresh pineapple. Rosa thanked him before taking a sip.
“It’s not safe to cross the street,” Grandma Sally insisted. “Just the other day, we were nearly run over by a young man—his car radio blaring that crazy music—speeding down Main, right, Louisa?”
“I’m going to talk to the mayor about putting in another set of traffic lights,” Aunt Louisa replied. “And a lower speed limit. Something they’ll enforce. What do the police do around Santa Bonita, anyway?”
Rosa and her aunt didn’t land on the same side in their opinions about the police. Rosa’s job as a private investigator often caused her path to cross with the local men in blue along with a certain well-dressed detective that her aunt had never forgiven. Rosa found it best to steer away from the topic when it came up.
“And don’t forget,” Aunt Louisa added, “our annual fundraiser for Santa Bonita Veterans’ Foundation is happening in a few days at that same theater you’re going to tonight.” She raised a dark, professionally plucked eyebrow at Rosa. “I hope you’ve marked it on your calendar.”
“Oh, yes. I am looking forward to that,” Rosa returned, thankful that they’d moved off the subject of the police.
Señora Gomez entered the patio with quick steps. “Telephone for you, Miss Rosa,” she called out. “It’s your doctor amigo.”
Rosa checked her watch. Larry should be driving his truck up their drive, not calling on the telephone. She excused herself and followed Señora Gomez back into the kitchen where she picked up the receiver.
“Larry?”
“Hello, darlin’,” Larry said.
Rosa thought his voice sounded a little weak. “Are you all right?”
“I’m sorry to do this to ya, but I can’t make it to the concert tonight. I had a migraine come on strong about an hour ago. I don’t get them often, but when I do, they hit me like a runaway locomotive.”
“Oh no.” Rosa’s heart dropped. As much as she was concerned for Larry’s health, she was dreadfully disappointed not to go to the Elvis Presley concert.
As if he read her mind, he said, “You can still go. I’ll send a cabbie to you to deliver the tickets. Maybe you could take a friend.”
Rosa’s mind worked hurriedly. She could go with Gloria and Marjorie, and perhaps she could convince Clarence to join them. Since his wife had left him and his young daughter, he did nothing but mope about. It would be good for him.
“If you don’t mind?”
“Not at all. I’d feel terrible if you missed out on my account. You’re doin’ me a favor by goin’.”
“Well, if you’re certain.”
His warm Texan accent reassured her. “Darn tootin’, I am.”
It was a consolation prize, but Rosa took it.”
“Thank you, Larry. I’ll take pictures and be sure to tell you all about it. It’s going to be a momentous event.”
GET IT TODAY
Amazon: https://smarturl.it/RRrocknroll
Paperback: https://smarturl.it/RR-Rock-paperback
October 30, 2020
Having a death occur right at the end of an Elvis Concert grabbed me from the beginning. Even more surprising is that the victim was a photographer and cousin to Detective Miguel Belmonte. As a relative, Miguel is not able to investigate the death that is ruled a suicide. He hires Rosa to look into the case. There are plenty of suspects, even before the murder of a second photographer occurs. It appears that both deaths could be related. With the help of a clue provided by the murdered photographer’s African Grey Parrot, Rosa and Miguel are able to solve the case.
This story moved at the speed of a rock and roll song. I loved having both Elvis and the Everly Brothers play a role. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Like a great rock concert, it left me wanting more!
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this delightful book.
This story moved at the speed of a rock and roll song. I loved having both Elvis and the Everly Brothers play a role. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. Like a great rock concert, it left me wanting more!
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this delightful book.
October 23, 2020
Since I was a little girl my mother has told me about the wonder of seeing Elvis in concert. This book and entire series is reminiscent of that era and makes it come alive for the reader. Typically during a series you have a general idea of where the storyline is going to be going rather quickly. I love that you never know in this one! It is anything but obvious in the whodunit or the personal storyline of Rosa Reed. In this book it is nice to see a more intimate focus on Miguel and his family. Which brings about the question, “What is going to happen next in this fun series?” Jump on board and read about Rosa, Miguel and Larry.
October 18, 2020
Another delightful excursion courtesy of Lee and Norm Strauss! I was fortunate to get an ARC of the book and enjoyed it!
The inclusion of two wonderful performers add insight into 50s pop culture, and well researched WWII facts make this educational as well. Plus, as a cat lover with two new kittens, I found the cat training attempts added some delightful humour.
It's well written and the mystery is intriguing to the end!
The inclusion of two wonderful performers add insight into 50s pop culture, and well researched WWII facts make this educational as well. Plus, as a cat lover with two new kittens, I found the cat training attempts added some delightful humour.
It's well written and the mystery is intriguing to the end!
October 28, 2020
I’m continuing to enjoy this fresh and fun series featuring Rosa Reed and set against the backdrop of sunny California. This mystery really places us in the 1950s as we, along with Rosa, actually get to attend an Elvis Presley concert! The description of the concert is really well written, and I came away feeling almost as if I’d seen Elvis in person myself. In fact, that part of the book was one of several scenes that had me particularly either on the edge of my seat or highly entertained and drawn in.
As always, the authors have created an interesting and varied set of characters to bring us the mystery story. They also succeed in weaving in some issues pertinent to the times as well as today, making the story educational as well as relevant. And then there is Rosa’s continuing love triangle with Miguel and Larry which keeps me coming back for more every time. What with that, Forrester family drama and, of course, cute little Diego, there’s plenty to love about this series. And I haven’t even been able to mention a couple of other story aspects that I really enjoyed as I don’t want to give away spoilers. I continue to highly recommend this series.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All the above opinions are my own.
As always, the authors have created an interesting and varied set of characters to bring us the mystery story. They also succeed in weaving in some issues pertinent to the times as well as today, making the story educational as well as relevant. And then there is Rosa’s continuing love triangle with Miguel and Larry which keeps me coming back for more every time. What with that, Forrester family drama and, of course, cute little Diego, there’s plenty to love about this series. And I haven’t even been able to mention a couple of other story aspects that I really enjoyed as I don’t want to give away spoilers. I continue to highly recommend this series.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All the above opinions are my own.
October 31, 2020
The more I read Strauss’ series about Rosa Reed, the more I enjoy these books. These stories are well written and well edited which makes reading more enjoyable for me. This one was certainly entertaining beginning with an Elvis Presley concert and introducing the Everly Brothers along the way. And, of course, there was a murder.
In addition to the enjoyment of reading about Rosa and the two men in her life, we are also entertained with more shenanigans from her kitten. Diego adds spice to her life and seems to have a sixth sense about the people she interacts with.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series, as I expect it to be of the same caliber as the others. I’m also interested to see how her romantic life progresses.
In addition to the enjoyment of reading about Rosa and the two men in her life, we are also entertained with more shenanigans from her kitten. Diego adds spice to her life and seems to have a sixth sense about the people she interacts with.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series, as I expect it to be of the same caliber as the others. I’m also interested to see how her romantic life progresses.
October 23, 2020
Rosa Reed finds herself at a concert for the new sensation, Elvis Presley!!!
Amongst the the screams for the entertainer, they soon become screams of fright, for a man falling from the scaffolding, with a rope around his neck!
Of course Rosa jumps in, and before the police arrive, tries to take command of the situation!!
The deceased is a photojournalist, that seems to have a past, but is also a cousin of Miguel Bellmonte.
Dismissed as a suicide, Miguel employs Rosa to investigate.
The electricity that erupts between the two could light a lamp, at least on Rosa's side.
Deeper into the case, there are many suspects, another murder, and cat training school for Diego.
Lee has scripted another enjoyable mystery, with lots of twists and turns, to keep her readers engaged!
I would recommend, this book, along with any other of her series!
Keep them coming, can't wait for the next one!!!!
Amongst the the screams for the entertainer, they soon become screams of fright, for a man falling from the scaffolding, with a rope around his neck!
Of course Rosa jumps in, and before the police arrive, tries to take command of the situation!!
The deceased is a photojournalist, that seems to have a past, but is also a cousin of Miguel Bellmonte.
Dismissed as a suicide, Miguel employs Rosa to investigate.
The electricity that erupts between the two could light a lamp, at least on Rosa's side.
Deeper into the case, there are many suspects, another murder, and cat training school for Diego.
Lee has scripted another enjoyable mystery, with lots of twists and turns, to keep her readers engaged!
I would recommend, this book, along with any other of her series!
Keep them coming, can't wait for the next one!!!!
October 25, 2020
Another Rocking good time in this fun series. Rosa is attending an Elvis concert that concludes with a man hanging from the scaffolding. Rosa rushes onstage to help but it's too late. She soon learns the deceased is a relative of ex-flame Miguel. Miguel hires her to investigate the death not convinced it's a suicide that the police ruled his death as. There are many suspects, no alibis and pent up feelings for Miguel providing a frustrating case for Rosa. The Fifties setting and the fun of Rock and Roll make for a great read. Looking forward to more Rosa stories and Rock music from this talented couple.
November 14, 2020
Another winner in the spin off series about Rosa Reed, daughter of Lady Gold and her husband Basil Reed. This is a fun series and so true to the 50s in which I was a pre-teen! I loved the idea of the murder in the concert and the author's wonderful, realistic treatment of Elvis in the early years and of course the Everly Brothers as they were a cover band just starting out! The death of a press photographer at the concert of course has Rosa (former Constable in London) on her toes looking for evidence as she is called in to investigate even though it was called a suicide. The thing is, Miguel wants Rosa's help because the victim was his cousin and he couldn't believe he would kill himself. When Suicide turns to murder, it is even more crucial Rose looks to solve the crime. Add to that, Rosa's former heart throb, Miguel Belmonte, the head of detectives and her newest beau, Larry, the medical examiner and there are bound to be some jealousy and pulled heart strings. Then we have a loud parrot in a second murder of another photographer and who will take the bird? So many twists and turns and red-herrings you just can't guess the murderer until the end! I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
November 3, 2020
The next Rosa Reed book in this fabulous 1950s cosy mystery series is another corker! Rosa is thrilled to be seeing the upcoming rock ‘n’ roll dreamboat Elvis Presley in concert... and once again gets entangled in a murder to solve, along with the gorgeous Miguel and her cute cat, Diego.
As always, the story is addictive reading, light and feel-good, but certainly not empty or silly. The characters, dialogue and narrative are written with style, and I love the way that Lee Strauss always creates a world that comes to life with real historical characters, fashion, designs, topics... it’s like I’m actually there!
This is one of the most enjoyable series I’ve ever had the good fortune to read - don’t miss reading them from the very start! Oh and if you haven’t yet discovered the 1920s Ginger Gold series, you have a treat in store!
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Murder and Rock ‘n’ Roll, and loved every minute of reading it.
As always, the story is addictive reading, light and feel-good, but certainly not empty or silly. The characters, dialogue and narrative are written with style, and I love the way that Lee Strauss always creates a world that comes to life with real historical characters, fashion, designs, topics... it’s like I’m actually there!
This is one of the most enjoyable series I’ve ever had the good fortune to read - don’t miss reading them from the very start! Oh and if you haven’t yet discovered the 1920s Ginger Gold series, you have a treat in store!
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Murder and Rock ‘n’ Roll, and loved every minute of reading it.
October 18, 2021
At an Elvis Presley concert, Rosa gets distracted by the sudden end of the concert when a man falls from the rafters with a rope around his neck.
The coroner pronounces it a suicide, but Detective Miguel doesn't believe it.
He hires Rosa to investigate to help prove he was murdered as the deceased was one of his cousins.
With the death of a second photographer, Rosa is more certain than ever that the first death was anything but a suicide.
Rosa's investigations uncover some pretty sketchy things along with an unusual stash that the photographer shouldn't have been able to afford.
Good story with defined characters and a bit of humor.
I'm looking forward to the next in this series.
The coroner pronounces it a suicide, but Detective Miguel doesn't believe it.
He hires Rosa to investigate to help prove he was murdered as the deceased was one of his cousins.
With the death of a second photographer, Rosa is more certain than ever that the first death was anything but a suicide.
Rosa's investigations uncover some pretty sketchy things along with an unusual stash that the photographer shouldn't have been able to afford.
Good story with defined characters and a bit of humor.
I'm looking forward to the next in this series.
November 3, 2024
Title: Murder and Rock and Roll
Author: Lee Strauss
Length: 234 pages / 5 hours
A cozy mystery set at an Elvis concert in the early 1950s. This is book number five in a series, however it can be enjoyed as a stand alone.
A photo journalist, named Orlando Belmonte, is found dead on stage at the end of an Elvis concert. Rosa Reed is a private investigator and former police officer at a time in history when women were not prominent in that industry. She’s a take charge personality and good at her job. Rosa is hired by her cop ex boyfriend to investigate the death of the photographer. Will Rosa be able to solve this mystery while working side by side with her ex?
This was a quick cozy mystery. I enjoyed the throw back setting of the 1950s and nods to early rock n roll.
Author: Lee Strauss
Length: 234 pages / 5 hours
A cozy mystery set at an Elvis concert in the early 1950s. This is book number five in a series, however it can be enjoyed as a stand alone.
A photo journalist, named Orlando Belmonte, is found dead on stage at the end of an Elvis concert. Rosa Reed is a private investigator and former police officer at a time in history when women were not prominent in that industry. She’s a take charge personality and good at her job. Rosa is hired by her cop ex boyfriend to investigate the death of the photographer. Will Rosa be able to solve this mystery while working side by side with her ex?
This was a quick cozy mystery. I enjoyed the throw back setting of the 1950s and nods to early rock n roll.
November 11, 2020
Fun, enjoyable read
I have been a big fan of the The Lady Gold series for years so it is especially nice to read the adventures her daughter get in to. Is nice fun read that takes you back to the 60s. Even though I wasn't around in 60s, well until '66 anyway but as I was a baby I don't remember any of it... :) I do enjoy reading about it. The Strauss's attention to detail and events of the time really take you there. I hope to enjoy many of more of Rosa's adventures and to find out where her relationships go. Will she choose the safe, comfortable relationship she enjoys with the good doctor, or will she continue to be drawn to the old flame with the intriguing detective?
I have been a big fan of the The Lady Gold series for years so it is especially nice to read the adventures her daughter get in to. Is nice fun read that takes you back to the 60s. Even though I wasn't around in 60s, well until '66 anyway but as I was a baby I don't remember any of it... :) I do enjoy reading about it. The Strauss's attention to detail and events of the time really take you there. I hope to enjoy many of more of Rosa's adventures and to find out where her relationships go. Will she choose the safe, comfortable relationship she enjoys with the good doctor, or will she continue to be drawn to the old flame with the intriguing detective?
October 29, 2020
Once again the author hits it out of the ball park with a murder mystery that is historically accurate to the 1950s. Fashion, idioms, and attitudes are obviously meticulously researched by the author showing an authentic window into the era. The same level of detail goes into the plotting of the mystery.
Detective Micheal Bellemonte hires Rosa to look into the death of his cousin Orlando a photo journalist whose death has been ruled a suicide. Michael is convinced he has been murdered and wants Rosa to find his killer.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
Detective Micheal Bellemonte hires Rosa to look into the death of his cousin Orlando a photo journalist whose death has been ruled a suicide. Michael is convinced he has been murdered and wants Rosa to find his killer.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
July 2, 2022
A mystery with two murders
When Officer Belmonte's cousin dies at a concert, the police declare it a suicide, but Rosa isn't convinced. Miguel hires her to investigate his cousin's death. Then another photographer is murdered, which leads to a new investigation. Rosa questions suspects and ultimately discovers the culprit. This book, with plenty of twists and turns, was a real blast! I especially loved the interactions with Rosa's kitten, Diego, nicknamed "Detective Diego", who kept getting into trouble.
When Officer Belmonte's cousin dies at a concert, the police declare it a suicide, but Rosa isn't convinced. Miguel hires her to investigate his cousin's death. Then another photographer is murdered, which leads to a new investigation. Rosa questions suspects and ultimately discovers the culprit. This book, with plenty of twists and turns, was a real blast! I especially loved the interactions with Rosa's kitten, Diego, nicknamed "Detective Diego", who kept getting into trouble.
May 23, 2021
Fun read. Rosa goes to an Elvis Presley concert, at the end of which a man hanging from a rope falls from overhead. The victim, a press photographer, was Miguel's cousin, so he can't lead the investigation. He hires Rosa, thinking that his cousin's death couldn't be suicide. Careful investigation brings up all matter of coincidences, the death of another press photographer among them. Twists, turns, and perhaps even a car chase lead to a good resolution.
October 30, 2020
I enjoy the 50's mysteries and this is no exception. Strauss sets her characters in a wonderful area and the mysteries are engaging. I am still hoping Rosa and Miguel get together, but I really like Larry too. There is going to be heartbreak somewhere along the line. Apart from that, the mystery keeps twisting and the suspects are plentiful. Great book!
November 11, 2020
Another well researched murder mystery set in the 1950’s. Rosa is from England and is used to the “stiff upper lip” decorous attitude of her upbringing but even she can not resist her excitement in seeing the new up and coming performer Elvis! But things do not go well as a murder happens during the exciting show. Come along as the authors weave another tale of suspense and drama.
October 29, 2020
A Concert to die for
Rosa Reed attends an Elvis concert. At the end of the concert a photographer hangs from the curtain cords. The police think it is a suicide but Rosa is not convinced and Miguel asks her to investigate as it is his cousin.
Miguel is her ex and of course she takes the case. Along with Diego and Mr. Glass's parrot Homer they investigate the case.
Meanwhile Rosa is dating Larry , but is attracted to her ex Miguel. Will she end up with the sweet and safe Larry or the gorgeous Miguel.
I love this series. The fifties, the music , the clothes and the settings. Another great Rosa Reed mystery. I recommend this book for a fine evening or two of reading.
Thanks to Lee Strauss for allowing me to read a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rosa Reed attends an Elvis concert. At the end of the concert a photographer hangs from the curtain cords. The police think it is a suicide but Rosa is not convinced and Miguel asks her to investigate as it is his cousin.
Miguel is her ex and of course she takes the case. Along with Diego and Mr. Glass's parrot Homer they investigate the case.
Meanwhile Rosa is dating Larry , but is attracted to her ex Miguel. Will she end up with the sweet and safe Larry or the gorgeous Miguel.
I love this series. The fifties, the music , the clothes and the settings. Another great Rosa Reed mystery. I recommend this book for a fine evening or two of reading.
Thanks to Lee Strauss for allowing me to read a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2020
Enjoyable
This series didn’t speak to me right off the bat the way Ginger Gold did...I guess the time period wasn’t my preference....but I find I am enjoying them more and more as the series goes on. A good light hearted read.
This series didn’t speak to me right off the bat the way Ginger Gold did...I guess the time period wasn’t my preference....but I find I am enjoying them more and more as the series goes on. A good light hearted read.
November 21, 2020
Who doesn't love an appearance by Elvis? Another great fun filled mystery, based in the 50's, love the characters. Thank you again Lee Strauss for entertaining me for the last two days, can't wait for the next installation.
September 20, 2021
A fun little mystery
These talented authors can sure pack a lot of story into a short book. This is a fun mystery with lots of love tension in the air. There is even an exciting chase scene. Diego also gets his role in the story.
These talented authors can sure pack a lot of story into a short book. This is a fun mystery with lots of love tension in the air. There is even an exciting chase scene. Diego also gets his role in the story.
February 22, 2022
Book 5 of the Rosa Reed cozy mystery series. The series keeps getting better with each book. In this mystery, Rosa has a lot more suspects and twists. The background into Det. Belmonte's family which was refreshing. Great story.
October 2, 2022
Great fun
1956 and Rosa is going to an Elvis concert what could go wrong? When murder raises its ugly head, Rosa is there, how she becomes involved and solves the case make for a fast pace story, old and new characters and for us baby boomers names and music we remember.
1956 and Rosa is going to an Elvis concert what could go wrong? When murder raises its ugly head, Rosa is there, how she becomes involved and solves the case make for a fast pace story, old and new characters and for us baby boomers names and music we remember.
March 24, 2023
Rosa follows in her parents footsteps
Rosa continues to entertain. The fifties time period is an interesting setting for this series with the fashion and culture notes. The characters are well developed and enjoyable. Good mysteries!
Rosa continues to entertain. The fifties time period is an interesting setting for this series with the fashion and culture notes. The characters are well developed and enjoyable. Good mysteries!
June 11, 2025
This was my favorite so far because of the reference to some of my favorite musicians. Interested to see which path Rosa's romantic life takes her and to have more of the supporting character's to develop.
November 7, 2020
Wonderful
A cracking good read the characters are really well written and enjoyable to read I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cosy mystery stories.
A cracking good read the characters are really well written and enjoyable to read I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cosy mystery stories.
November 25, 2020
Great read.
February 18, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book. Weaving historical facts with a enjoyable mystery is always fun. The characters are believable and interesting.
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