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An Eli Marks Mystery #7
The Magic Square
A puzzling clue to an unconventional murder…
When an old family friend is arrested for murder at a magic convention, Uncle Harry urges Eli to step in and solve the bizarre homicide. Eli’s attempt to sort through all the suspects is stymied after a second murder and then a third murder attempt–or was it merely an accident? Is someone trying to knock off the top mentalists in the country? And if they are, why do the clues keep pointing to Eli’s friend?
As the body count rises, Eli must race against the clock to trap this clever killer before becoming the final victim.
"You will just LOVE these books!"—VANISH Magazine
When an old family friend is arrested for murder at a magic convention, Uncle Harry urges Eli to step in and solve the bizarre homicide. Eli’s attempt to sort through all the suspects is stymied after a second murder and then a third murder attempt–or was it merely an accident? Is someone trying to knock off the top mentalists in the country? And if they are, why do the clues keep pointing to Eli’s friend?
As the body count rises, Eli must race against the clock to trap this clever killer before becoming the final victim.
"You will just LOVE these books!"—VANISH Magazine
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2020
34 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
John Gaspard
102 books143 followersJohn is author of the Eli Marks mystery series and the Como Lake Players mystery series. He also has four other stand-alone novels: “The Greyhound of the Baskervilles,” “A Christmas Carl,” “The Sword & Mr. Stone” and “The Ripperologists.”
He hosts two podcasts: "Behind the Page: The Eli Marks Podcast," and "The Occasional Film Podcast."
In real life, John's not a magician, but he has directed six low-budget features that cost very little and made even less - that's no small trick. He's also written multiple books on the subject of low-budget filmmaking. Ironically, those books made more than the films.
John lives in Minnesota and shares his home with his lovely wife, several greyhounds, a few cats and a handful of pet allergies.
He hosts two podcasts: "Behind the Page: The Eli Marks Podcast," and "The Occasional Film Podcast."
In real life, John's not a magician, but he has directed six low-budget features that cost very little and made even less - that's no small trick. He's also written multiple books on the subject of low-budget filmmaking. Ironically, those books made more than the films.
John lives in Minnesota and shares his home with his lovely wife, several greyhounds, a few cats and a handful of pet allergies.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 16, 2021
Eli Marks and his uncle, Harry, are out of town at a magic convention. They’ll be spending a lot of time in the dealer’s room so they can sell Harry’s new two-volume book about his time as a magician, but they are hoping to catch a few of the panels, and the evening sessions. The entire convention is surprised when famed mentalist Gerhardt performs the first night. However, Harry’s friend Abe is less than happy since he’s had a running feud with Gerhardt for years. That feud is public knowledge, so when Abe returns to his hotel room that night to find Gerhardt’s body in the bathroom, the police consider him a strong suspect. Can Eli figure out what is really going on?
I always forget how much I enjoy these books until I am sitting down reading a new one. It was great to slip back into Eli’s world. Since we are out of town, I did miss some of the series regulars, but it did give us more time to get to know the new characters, who are quite strong. The story moves forward at a steady pace, with clues sprinkled into the talk of magic. I did finger the culprit a little early, but I wasn’t completely certain until we reached the suspenseful climax, and I was having such a good time I didn’t really care. While there is talk about magic, we don’t get any illusions spoiled here, but it might inspire you to try to learn a little on your own. If you are a fan of these books, you’ll be glad you picked up this volume. If you haven’t met Eli yet, you’ll be hooked faster than you can say “Abracadabra.”
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I always forget how much I enjoy these books until I am sitting down reading a new one. It was great to slip back into Eli’s world. Since we are out of town, I did miss some of the series regulars, but it did give us more time to get to know the new characters, who are quite strong. The story moves forward at a steady pace, with clues sprinkled into the talk of magic. I did finger the culprit a little early, but I wasn’t completely certain until we reached the suspenseful climax, and I was having such a good time I didn’t really care. While there is talk about magic, we don’t get any illusions spoiled here, but it might inspire you to try to learn a little on your own. If you are a fan of these books, you’ll be glad you picked up this volume. If you haven’t met Eli yet, you’ll be hooked faster than you can say “Abracadabra.”
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
April 14, 2021
All good things must come to an end -- until the author writes another Eli Marks mystery.
This mystery finds Eli attending a Magician Convention where his Uncle Harry is to receive the convention's prestigious award.
Of course, neither Eli or Harry can't attend any function without there being a murder, only this time, their good friend Abe is framed for murder.
As with the previous other six books, this is a series that you really want to read in order because the characters become like good friends. The author hasn't disappointed and I have to think he's attended more than a few conventions.
Another fantastic read and highly recommended.
This mystery finds Eli attending a Magician Convention where his Uncle Harry is to receive the convention's prestigious award.
Of course, neither Eli or Harry can't attend any function without there being a murder, only this time, their good friend Abe is framed for murder.
As with the previous other six books, this is a series that you really want to read in order because the characters become like good friends. The author hasn't disappointed and I have to think he's attended more than a few conventions.
Another fantastic read and highly recommended.
January 17, 2022
As I've said before, these are really short books, barely more than a novella, although I think this one was slightly longer than those in the past? Maybe. And to pay $5 for them, when I'm a girl who is 99.99% library books, says something. But this one - when the murderer was introduced, for some reason, I said, I bet that's him. And I kept telling myself, no, it won't be that obvious, it'll be someone else, and the author really tried to keep showing us how many suspects there were. But the other suspects were never that convincing, and then, huh, I was right. This one, while I liked that he gave Eli some small character development, just wasn't as good as those that came before. I think the next few are short stories, and for a dollar, I'd read a short story. But I'm not sure I'll buy another "book" again.
November 18, 2020
Great series!
The core set of characters, including Eli and his uncle Harry, are likeable and believable. The mysteries are interesting and usually keep me guessing until the very end. The magic is handled beautifully - enough to be interesting, without giving away too many secrets or overwhelming the story. I love how the discussions of magic bring in many aspects beyond technical skills and explain how things like telling stories and connecting with your audience are so important for success as a magician. I've read all 7 books and am looking forward to reading many more! (Mr. Gaspard, if you are reading this: hint, hint!)
The core set of characters, including Eli and his uncle Harry, are likeable and believable. The mysteries are interesting and usually keep me guessing until the very end. The magic is handled beautifully - enough to be interesting, without giving away too many secrets or overwhelming the story. I love how the discussions of magic bring in many aspects beyond technical skills and explain how things like telling stories and connecting with your audience are so important for success as a magician. I've read all 7 books and am looking forward to reading many more! (Mr. Gaspard, if you are reading this: hint, hint!)
December 1, 2020
John Harvard's books are well written with great pots.
The characters come alive in m mind. I really relate and.know the characters. The plots grab my attention . I usually have a couple of candidates for the villain but I don't solve them until the last clue. I look forward to getting his books.
The characters come alive in m mind. I really relate and.know the characters. The plots grab my attention . I usually have a couple of candidates for the villain but I don't solve them until the last clue. I look forward to getting his books.
November 24, 2020
Eli In Top Form
I can honestly say I have never picked up a book by John Gaspard that I disliked. The Eli Marks series is one of my favorites and a set of mysteries I frequently recommend. The Magic Square proved Gaspard wrote another winner!
I can honestly say I have never picked up a book by John Gaspard that I disliked. The Eli Marks series is one of my favorites and a set of mysteries I frequently recommend. The Magic Square proved Gaspard wrote another winner!
December 1, 2020
A great series that can be enjoyed whether or not you are a magic fan. Seven books in, I am looking forward to more to come. Eli and his cohorts are interesting and endearing, and the mystery/puzzle is always interesting. This series reads like an old friend.
December 29, 2020
I just finished the latest Eli Marks novel from the very talented John Gaspar and I must say it was a really good book. I love this series and I love the characters starting with everyman magician Eli, all the way through to Homicide Detective Fred Hutton. I am really looking forward to the next book.
July 4, 2024
Another great Eli Marks Mystery.
Since discovering the Eli Marks mysteries I have been hooked. Great characters and an easy read, always with a twist at the end to reveal the true murderer. And so, on to the next in the series.
Since discovering the Eli Marks mysteries I have been hooked. Great characters and an easy read, always with a twist at the end to reveal the true murderer. And so, on to the next in the series.
December 31, 2021
My review for The Magic Square
I loved it! Absolutely awesome book! Once again, I didn’t guess the killer. This is a must read series! I can’t wait for the next book!
I loved it! Absolutely awesome book! Once again, I didn’t guess the killer. This is a must read series! I can’t wait for the next book!
June 24, 2022
These are light and fun and make for great audio listening.
April 1, 2023
Another fantastic audiobook with an excellent mystery, distinctive characters, and perfect pacing. Thank you, John and Jim, for the wonderful storytelling!
September 27, 2025
CHIRP AUDIOBOOK
#7. Excellent. These Eli Marks books are cleaver, humorous and thoroughly entertaining.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
#7. Excellent. These Eli Marks books are cleaver, humorous and thoroughly entertaining.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
March 17, 2024
MAGIC SQUARE ~ by John Gaspard.
MY RATING GUIDE: 4.5 Stars.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I LIKED IT A LOT; 5= I LOVED IT; it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
MAGIC SQUARE, #7 is a unique and satisfying audio book written by John Gaspard performed by talented voice artist Jim Cunningham. Cunningham continues to capture Eli’s personality and persona so well that I hope he continues his collaboration with Gaspard throughout the duration. This series is an enjoyable series that keeps me engaged, entertains & even educates the reader in magic history. I have listened to my favorite Eli Marks’ audios more than once after already reading e copies of most. This is a unique mystery series - and always great fun.
In THE MAGIC SQUARE we find Eli Marks/MC, a newly married professional magician (somewhere in his mid 30’s-40’s) attending an out-of-town weekend Magic Convention with his renown magician uncle, Harry Marks. Harry has been invited to the convention as a special guest, slotted to receive a Life Honorary award in magic. Other attendees at the convention include a large variety of skilled and experienced performers - mentalists, illusionists, magic set designers, card artists, parlor performers, children’s party talent and magicians. Confronted with such a vast group of extremely talented artists Eli finds himself experiencing an identity crisis - who is he as a magician? Where does he see himself in 5yrs? Is he happy with the direction of his professional life or does he need to make changes? While Eli is struggling with these personal questions an attendee at the convention is suddenly discovered murdered. For the remaining days Eli finds himself attending performances, participating in discussions and book sales, mulling over his career, and considering who among the attendees had motive, opportunity and means for murder. Then before Eli has satisfied himself with answers, another death occurs.
Favorite Quote -
> “How in the world did they pull off an act like that? Eli questions.
“The same way you get to Carnegie Hall - practice!” Uncle Harry’s responds.
Eli Marks is one of my favorite mystery series. I took off 1/2 point only because Eli seemed so troubled regarding his career. I was hoping the author wasn’t hinting about the conclusion of this series. That questionable note lessened my enjoyment (but only slightly). THE MAGIC SQUARE is recommended to Cozy Mystery readers, anyone interested in the realm of performance magic and readers looking for a unique, quirky protagonist supported by a rich cast of characters. This series always leaves me smiling, wondering when the next book will come out.
READER CAUTIONS - Entirely Clean & suitable for YA - adult.
VIOLENCE - This is a murder mystery but it contains no dark or graphic descriptions or scenes.
PROFANITY - None.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
MY RATING GUIDE: 4.5 Stars.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I LIKED IT A LOT; 5= I LOVED IT; it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
MAGIC SQUARE, #7 is a unique and satisfying audio book written by John Gaspard performed by talented voice artist Jim Cunningham. Cunningham continues to capture Eli’s personality and persona so well that I hope he continues his collaboration with Gaspard throughout the duration. This series is an enjoyable series that keeps me engaged, entertains & even educates the reader in magic history. I have listened to my favorite Eli Marks’ audios more than once after already reading e copies of most. This is a unique mystery series - and always great fun.
In THE MAGIC SQUARE we find Eli Marks/MC, a newly married professional magician (somewhere in his mid 30’s-40’s) attending an out-of-town weekend Magic Convention with his renown magician uncle, Harry Marks. Harry has been invited to the convention as a special guest, slotted to receive a Life Honorary award in magic. Other attendees at the convention include a large variety of skilled and experienced performers - mentalists, illusionists, magic set designers, card artists, parlor performers, children’s party talent and magicians. Confronted with such a vast group of extremely talented artists Eli finds himself experiencing an identity crisis - who is he as a magician? Where does he see himself in 5yrs? Is he happy with the direction of his professional life or does he need to make changes? While Eli is struggling with these personal questions an attendee at the convention is suddenly discovered murdered. For the remaining days Eli finds himself attending performances, participating in discussions and book sales, mulling over his career, and considering who among the attendees had motive, opportunity and means for murder. Then before Eli has satisfied himself with answers, another death occurs.
Favorite Quote -
> “How in the world did they pull off an act like that? Eli questions.
“The same way you get to Carnegie Hall - practice!” Uncle Harry’s responds.
Eli Marks is one of my favorite mystery series. I took off 1/2 point only because Eli seemed so troubled regarding his career. I was hoping the author wasn’t hinting about the conclusion of this series. That questionable note lessened my enjoyment (but only slightly). THE MAGIC SQUARE is recommended to Cozy Mystery readers, anyone interested in the realm of performance magic and readers looking for a unique, quirky protagonist supported by a rich cast of characters. This series always leaves me smiling, wondering when the next book will come out.
READER CAUTIONS - Entirely Clean & suitable for YA - adult.
VIOLENCE - This is a murder mystery but it contains no dark or graphic descriptions or scenes.
PROFANITY - None.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
December 9, 2024
Eli Marks is wonderful as always. Fun and secretly emotional read, recommend!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews