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Mambo Reina #2
The Foreign Exchange
A Vodou priestess turned amateur sleuth investigating a ritual murder is embroiled in an insidious case of corruption that reaches beyond the shadows of New Orleans.
After solving a crime blamed on Vodou in New Orleans’ French Quarter, Vodou priestess turned amateur detective Reina Dumond has returned to her benevolent work as a healer. But when her friend and enigmatic client Evangeline “Vangie” Stiles comes to her for a spell, Mambo Reina quickly realizes what Vangie really needs is a sleuth.
Something is amiss in the Stileses’ marriage. Five thousand dollars has inexplicably appeared in the bank account Vangie shares with her scam-artist husband, Arthur, and she smells trouble. So does Reina. Especially when her investigation into Arthur’s likely new con leads to murder. Considering the manner of death and the signs on the victim’s body, Reina recognizes it for what it is: ritual magic of the vodouisant kind.
As Reina digs deeper, she encounters a conspiracy exploiting vulnerable youth—one of whom may have abilities just like hers. With the help of her friends Darryl and Tyka, Reina must hone her ever-evolving skills to uncover a mystery that reaches further than she imagined.
After solving a crime blamed on Vodou in New Orleans’ French Quarter, Vodou priestess turned amateur detective Reina Dumond has returned to her benevolent work as a healer. But when her friend and enigmatic client Evangeline “Vangie” Stiles comes to her for a spell, Mambo Reina quickly realizes what Vangie really needs is a sleuth.
Something is amiss in the Stileses’ marriage. Five thousand dollars has inexplicably appeared in the bank account Vangie shares with her scam-artist husband, Arthur, and she smells trouble. So does Reina. Especially when her investigation into Arthur’s likely new con leads to murder. Considering the manner of death and the signs on the victim’s body, Reina recognizes it for what it is: ritual magic of the vodouisant kind.
As Reina digs deeper, she encounters a conspiracy exploiting vulnerable youth—one of whom may have abilities just like hers. With the help of her friends Darryl and Tyka, Reina must hone her ever-evolving skills to uncover a mystery that reaches further than she imagined.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2023
334 people are currently reading
2912 people want to read
About the author
Veronica G. Henry
13 books505 followersVeronica G. Henry is the author of Bacchanal, The Quarter Storm, and The Foreign Exchange in the Mambo Reina series.
Her work has debuted at #1 on multiple Amazon bestseller charts, was chosen as an editors’ pick for Best African American Fantasy, and shortlisted for the Manly Wade Wellman Award.
She is a Viable Paradise alum and a member of SFWA and MWA. Her stories have appeared, or are forthcoming, in the Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction and FIYAH Literary Magazine.
Her work has debuted at #1 on multiple Amazon bestseller charts, was chosen as an editors’ pick for Best African American Fantasy, and shortlisted for the Manly Wade Wellman Award.
She is a Viable Paradise alum and a member of SFWA and MWA. Her stories have appeared, or are forthcoming, in the Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction and FIYAH Literary Magazine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
March 3, 2023
Mambo Reina returns and once again finds herself using her vodou magic to investigate crimes and corruption in New Orleans.
Such a great book. 5 Stars but loses a star for the ending that doesn't really satisfy.
Such a great book. 5 Stars but loses a star for the ending that doesn't really satisfy.
November 2, 2022
I enjoyed this book immensely. The essence of New Orleans comes through clearly as you follow Mambo Reina on her quest to solve a mystery for a friend. Ms Henry says she was inspired to write this story after learning of the Africa to NBA pipeline. As someone who lives in Africa, this was news to me too although not at all surprising. - including the scams, the thefts and how these boys are at the mercy of handlers as they seek a means to better their lives.
If you are interested in 'real' voodoo outside of the realms of Hollywood, this a good story to start. There are no wealthy spirits haunting houses in the Garden District and no storefront shamans selling books and trinkets to tourists while they whip up black magic spells in the back room. The characters in this story come from a long history and deep system of beliefs and whether or not you believe, going along with their story is fascinating.
I highly recommend this book if you like mystery with a bit of magic. Thank you to Veronica G Henry and NetGalley for the ARC and opportunity to review this book.
If you are interested in 'real' voodoo outside of the realms of Hollywood, this a good story to start. There are no wealthy spirits haunting houses in the Garden District and no storefront shamans selling books and trinkets to tourists while they whip up black magic spells in the back room. The characters in this story come from a long history and deep system of beliefs and whether or not you believe, going along with their story is fascinating.
I highly recommend this book if you like mystery with a bit of magic. Thank you to Veronica G Henry and NetGalley for the ARC and opportunity to review this book.
March 9, 2023
Duly initiated Vodou priestess Mambo Reina Dumond is back & ready to catch a second murderer.
This is the very-recently-released second book in the Mambo Reina series & after finishing it I’ve decided that I need the third one published ASAP!
Mambo Reina can’t turn down a client in need, and that’s what starts her investigation into another murder with signs pointing to Vodou. As she tries to figure out why her client’s husband has deposited a large sum of cash into their bank account with no explanation, Mambo Reina enlists the help of Darryl & Tyka (so happy to see these characters from The Quarter Storm return for the sequel!) to track down the cash’s connection to the murdered man. Along the way she has to avoid her ex-boyfriend turned current boyfriend again, Detective Frost - he’s not so happy about her amateur sleuthing (side note: I’m with Tyka & Darryl on this one, not a fan of Frosty).
In the course of her inquiries, Mambo Reina also discovers a young man with powers similar to her own & has to join forces with frenemy Lucien to help him stay in the country.
This book was action-packed & I could write a much longer review if I were to include a more detailed play-by-play, but here are the highlights for me:
- the scheme that Mambo Reina uncovers is wild
- Mambo Reina’s dedication to her practice & her relationship with Erzulie is amazing
- New Orleans is once again a fantastic backdrop to this story, filled with tragic history & rich community
- that tantalizing hope of finding out about her mother at the end has me anxiously awaiting the third installment
Thank you to NetGalley & 47North for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the very-recently-released second book in the Mambo Reina series & after finishing it I’ve decided that I need the third one published ASAP!
Mambo Reina can’t turn down a client in need, and that’s what starts her investigation into another murder with signs pointing to Vodou. As she tries to figure out why her client’s husband has deposited a large sum of cash into their bank account with no explanation, Mambo Reina enlists the help of Darryl & Tyka (so happy to see these characters from The Quarter Storm return for the sequel!) to track down the cash’s connection to the murdered man. Along the way she has to avoid her ex-boyfriend turned current boyfriend again, Detective Frost - he’s not so happy about her amateur sleuthing (side note: I’m with Tyka & Darryl on this one, not a fan of Frosty).
In the course of her inquiries, Mambo Reina also discovers a young man with powers similar to her own & has to join forces with frenemy Lucien to help him stay in the country.
This book was action-packed & I could write a much longer review if I were to include a more detailed play-by-play, but here are the highlights for me:
- the scheme that Mambo Reina uncovers is wild
- Mambo Reina’s dedication to her practice & her relationship with Erzulie is amazing
- New Orleans is once again a fantastic backdrop to this story, filled with tragic history & rich community
- that tantalizing hope of finding out about her mother at the end has me anxiously awaiting the third installment
Thank you to NetGalley & 47North for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 28, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher 47North - pub date 2/28/2023. Unfortunately, I am a nitwit and didn't realize this was #2. Whoops. As I am of the opinion that most books in a non-epic mystery series should be readable without having read all the previous installments, I plunged ahead.
Besides the book has some of the best things - New Orleans, atmosphere, Voudou, a mystery-solving Mambo with a found family - so I could not resist. TL:DR - Overall, the book was a fast and relatively enjoyable read but, if I stopped and thought too much, I wanted to howl at how the solid setting/world, the sweet main character, and the high stakes main mystery get buried under the smaller pieces of chaff like a house under tree branches from a bad storm. Those last 50 pages? Unneccesary.
Good points about this book:
1. An impeccable and realistic and evocative feeling of New Orleans permeated the book. The author does a fantastic job painting the city in real colors and not its tourism clothing. She pays attention to everything from the landscape to the sounds and the odors. It feels real and rich and can make anyone who has been there homesick.
2. The author does not shy away from the ugly parts of the setting and is utterly honest when dealing with the long, slow climb back from Katrina.
3. The detailed, researched elements of Voudou. There is no cheapening of the relgion and its practices. It is respectful. It is balanced. It is organic. It is varied. Most importantly, like all religions and all magic and all belief, it can be used well and used badly but the use is not the fault of the source but the fault of the wielder.
Bad points : Well, it doesn't fully stand up without reading the first book but it's clear enough (and repeats enough points a few times) that you can get along without reading the first.
1. The plot and pacing are a bit... confused as to what they want to be. The main plot (the murder, the smuggled kids, what's going on with Ms Vangie's husband) - that all toodles along just fine with dashes of what you think are sub-plots (Reina's love life, Reina's friendship circle and their problems, dealing with fall-out from book one). It's a really good plot, too. It builds from small stakes to big stakes and has a suitably upsetting villain. But then the climax zips by in a handful of pages and you think it's over but the book keeps dawdling on for another 50 or so pages that bulk up those side quests to Big Things which only serves to make the climax smaller and make me wonder where it all is going. "Are we there yet, Mom?"
2. Reina is the sweetest of darlings and cares about things and wants so badly to do right and I rather like her and... I want to shake the hell out of her. This is her second "case". You would think she would have more sense in pursuing things. She nearly gets shot, jumps into things before she has proper protections, doesn't approach situations with a plan B and she fibs her head off left and right to the people who she should be most honest with. The fact that they lie to her as well is just distressing. I am hard-pressed to think of anyone who I feel actually cares for Reina fully and completely and without strings. Maybe Odi. Strangely, maybe Lucien. Call me crazy but I think if you actually love someone (romantically or platonically), you should not be spending half of your time self-editing or lying to them. The fact that she deliberatelly lies to her boyfriend and suspects he lies to her and then she justifies it as being totally sensible is very disheartening. She has no business being with Roman and vice versa. Just about every relationship Reina has is a game of "who has what control over the other person" and that gets exhausting. No wonder poor Reina gets wiped out so much. Reina, girl, it's okay to be single. It's okay to make demands of your friends.
3. ... Reina, I can't believe you honestly dismissed the obvious answer because of THAT reasoning. Are you that prideful or is it stupidity or is there something in this world that absolutely precludes it?
Besides the book has some of the best things - New Orleans, atmosphere, Voudou, a mystery-solving Mambo with a found family - so I could not resist. TL:DR - Overall, the book was a fast and relatively enjoyable read but, if I stopped and thought too much, I wanted to howl at how the solid setting/world, the sweet main character, and the high stakes main mystery get buried under the smaller pieces of chaff like a house under tree branches from a bad storm. Those last 50 pages? Unneccesary.
Good points about this book:
1. An impeccable and realistic and evocative feeling of New Orleans permeated the book. The author does a fantastic job painting the city in real colors and not its tourism clothing. She pays attention to everything from the landscape to the sounds and the odors. It feels real and rich and can make anyone who has been there homesick.
2. The author does not shy away from the ugly parts of the setting and is utterly honest when dealing with the long, slow climb back from Katrina.
3. The detailed, researched elements of Voudou. There is no cheapening of the relgion and its practices. It is respectful. It is balanced. It is organic. It is varied. Most importantly, like all religions and all magic and all belief, it can be used well and used badly but the use is not the fault of the source but the fault of the wielder.
Bad points : Well, it doesn't fully stand up without reading the first book but it's clear enough (and repeats enough points a few times) that you can get along without reading the first.
1. The plot and pacing are a bit... confused as to what they want to be. The main plot (the murder, the smuggled kids, what's going on with Ms Vangie's husband) - that all toodles along just fine with dashes of what you think are sub-plots (Reina's love life, Reina's friendship circle and their problems, dealing with fall-out from book one). It's a really good plot, too. It builds from small stakes to big stakes and has a suitably upsetting villain. But then the climax zips by in a handful of pages and you think it's over but the book keeps dawdling on for another 50 or so pages that bulk up those side quests to Big Things which only serves to make the climax smaller and make me wonder where it all is going. "Are we there yet, Mom?"
2. Reina is the sweetest of darlings and cares about things and wants so badly to do right and I rather like her and... I want to shake the hell out of her. This is her second "case". You would think she would have more sense in pursuing things. She nearly gets shot, jumps into things before she has proper protections, doesn't approach situations with a plan B and she fibs her head off left and right to the people who she should be most honest with. The fact that they lie to her as well is just distressing. I am hard-pressed to think of anyone who I feel actually cares for Reina fully and completely and without strings. Maybe Odi. Strangely, maybe Lucien. Call me crazy but I think if you actually love someone (romantically or platonically), you should not be spending half of your time self-editing or lying to them. The fact that she deliberatelly lies to her boyfriend and suspects he lies to her and then she justifies it as being totally sensible is very disheartening. She has no business being with Roman and vice versa. Just about every relationship Reina has is a game of "who has what control over the other person" and that gets exhausting. No wonder poor Reina gets wiped out so much. Reina, girl, it's okay to be single. It's okay to make demands of your friends.
3. ... Reina, I can't believe you honestly dismissed the obvious answer because of THAT reasoning. Are you that prideful or is it stupidity or is there something in this world that absolutely precludes it?
May 20, 2024
Very disappointing, book 1 was amazing
Sadly, this book was close to horrible. The first book in the series was one of my favorite books. I did give 3 stars because I love the characters and the author has something good going with them and lots of stuff forming but it needs to fit together better. This was so drug out and mainly only showed the MC going and coming to find answers to , in the end, i forgot the quest. and as far as the detective boyfriend, good grief decide something. but the end leaves more questions. it's being set up for a good book 3. but doesn't really have much to do with this book. she should've started with that ending and written about it. When book 3 gets here, I would skip book 2 if I were you.
The audio was wonderful, aside from the story. I think this narrator kept me listening because her voice is the best thing in the world. she feels like a dear friend I would love to know. perfect. just as I pictured for the characters.
Sadly, this book was close to horrible. The first book in the series was one of my favorite books. I did give 3 stars because I love the characters and the author has something good going with them and lots of stuff forming but it needs to fit together better. This was so drug out and mainly only showed the MC going and coming to find answers to , in the end, i forgot the quest. and as far as the detective boyfriend, good grief decide something. but the end leaves more questions. it's being set up for a good book 3. but doesn't really have much to do with this book. she should've started with that ending and written about it. When book 3 gets here, I would skip book 2 if I were you.
The audio was wonderful, aside from the story. I think this narrator kept me listening because her voice is the best thing in the world. she feels like a dear friend I would love to know. perfect. just as I pictured for the characters.
January 2, 2025
I absolutely love this series! I’m invested in the characters! I hope the author gives us another book.
September 5, 2023
3/5 stars,
This is the second book in the series and although I didn't love the first book it was nice to be familiar with all the characters going into the book. I found it significantly more engaging than the first one and better written. I would be interested in reading another book in the series if it comes out.
This is the second book in the series and although I didn't love the first book it was nice to be familiar with all the characters going into the book. I found it significantly more engaging than the first one and better written. I would be interested in reading another book in the series if it comes out.
April 28, 2025
A nice return to Vodou priestess turned amateur detective Mambo Reina as she gets sucked into another mystery by one of her clients.
The novel has a very strong sense of place (New Orleans) and gives a fascinating insight into Vodou practice.
The author says the novel was inspired by the Afrcia to NBA pipeline and she draws on how it could be abused by those in power. This provides a very interesting background for the mystery.
I eagerly await the third instalment!
The novel has a very strong sense of place (New Orleans) and gives a fascinating insight into Vodou practice.
The author says the novel was inspired by the Afrcia to NBA pipeline and she draws on how it could be abused by those in power. This provides a very interesting background for the mystery.
I eagerly await the third instalment!
February 26, 2023
The Foreign Exchange by Veronica G. Henry is the 2nd book in her Mambo Reina series. I did not read the first book, but this one read very well as a standalone; though knowing more about the heroine in this series, would have been more informative.
Reina Dumond (Mambo Dumond), a Vodou priestess, who is a healer, as well as an amateur detective in New Orleans French Quarter. Reina creates spells, tinctures of protection for her clients, as her shop is filled with magic Vodou healing traditions. When her friend and client ask for help regarding her husband, Arthur, who is scam-artist, Reina finds herself once again trying to solve a murder. She discovers a conspiracy, and recognizes the signs on the murdered victim’s body that dark ritual magic was used. Reina will ask for help from other Houngans and Mambo’s in her investigations.
Reina comes across a young boy, who to her surprise, seems to have abilities like her and Lucien. When the boy disappears, the race is on to find him, and together the two of them can help train him. I really liked her friends Darryl and Tyka, who are always willing to help her. Roman, her cop boyfriend, has been busy on the job, so she relies more on her friends for help.
The Foreign Exchange was a unique story, taking place in New Orleans dealing with Vodou and a mystery, in an excellent urban fantasy/paranormal thriller. I really liked Reina, who was tough and smart heroine, with amazing abilities. There was so much going on, that you need to read this in its entirety. The Foreign Exchange was very well written by Veronica G. Henry.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Reina Dumond (Mambo Dumond), a Vodou priestess, who is a healer, as well as an amateur detective in New Orleans French Quarter. Reina creates spells, tinctures of protection for her clients, as her shop is filled with magic Vodou healing traditions. When her friend and client ask for help regarding her husband, Arthur, who is scam-artist, Reina finds herself once again trying to solve a murder. She discovers a conspiracy, and recognizes the signs on the murdered victim’s body that dark ritual magic was used. Reina will ask for help from other Houngans and Mambo’s in her investigations.
Reina comes across a young boy, who to her surprise, seems to have abilities like her and Lucien. When the boy disappears, the race is on to find him, and together the two of them can help train him. I really liked her friends Darryl and Tyka, who are always willing to help her. Roman, her cop boyfriend, has been busy on the job, so she relies more on her friends for help.
The Foreign Exchange was a unique story, taking place in New Orleans dealing with Vodou and a mystery, in an excellent urban fantasy/paranormal thriller. I really liked Reina, who was tough and smart heroine, with amazing abilities. There was so much going on, that you need to read this in its entirety. The Foreign Exchange was very well written by Veronica G. Henry.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
dnf
April 3, 2023The biology nerd in me is really struggling. Cutaneous respiration isn't going to occur at a high rate just because you enlarge the pores. If you're going to magic, GO FULL MAGIC. Don't try to science it up.
January 22, 2023
Before I get into the review, I want to thank both NetGalley and the publishers over at 47North for giving me access to this ARC in exchange for an honest review. I made the rookie mistake of requesting the ARC for a second book in a series. So, I read book one earlier this month and really did not have a good time. I came into this book with lower expectations and I think that kept this from being under 2 stars for me. In this series, we follow Mambo Reina Dumond in New Orleans as she practices her Vodou for her clients and sometimes stumbles her way into solving some murders. She’s an amateur sleuth and uses the powers of her patron gods to help her find the clues and the leads that no one else can. The Foreign Exchange comes out on February 28th and is available for preorder now.
I guess the one good thing about this mistake is that I learned that I am not a Cozy Mystery GIrlie. The way the author had this main character swinging back and forth from the Southern Cooking to the Murder Solving gave me whiplash. I struggled to deal with her cooking something to thinking about the crime. It doesn’t help that she comes up with conclusions out of nowhere. I don’t see how she figures this crime out at all. She does track down some leads, but how she got there in the first place is a mystery to me. I also feel like she has a lot of the same hang ups she had in book one. She didn’t have any character growth between the beginning of book one and the end of book two which I found to be a disappointment. The magic can be cool at times but a lot of it just doesn’t interest me. Which I can attribute to being a me thing and not a book thing necessarily. I’m sure it’s serviceable enough for people who enjoy this kind of magic even when it’s not used in an action scene.
I did find the world easier to navigate in this one since I did have another book in this world under my belt already. I just struggle to figure out who this book could be good for. Cozy Mystery fans, probably, Magical Realism fans, not so much. Fantasy fans, if they also like Cozy Mysteries maybe. It’s such a melting pot of genres and themes that it’s hard to pinpoint the audience for this one. The bonus here is that each of these books is under 300 pages and pretty quick to get through if you want to give it a shot at least.
I guess the one good thing about this mistake is that I learned that I am not a Cozy Mystery GIrlie. The way the author had this main character swinging back and forth from the Southern Cooking to the Murder Solving gave me whiplash. I struggled to deal with her cooking something to thinking about the crime. It doesn’t help that she comes up with conclusions out of nowhere. I don’t see how she figures this crime out at all. She does track down some leads, but how she got there in the first place is a mystery to me. I also feel like she has a lot of the same hang ups she had in book one. She didn’t have any character growth between the beginning of book one and the end of book two which I found to be a disappointment. The magic can be cool at times but a lot of it just doesn’t interest me. Which I can attribute to being a me thing and not a book thing necessarily. I’m sure it’s serviceable enough for people who enjoy this kind of magic even when it’s not used in an action scene.
I did find the world easier to navigate in this one since I did have another book in this world under my belt already. I just struggle to figure out who this book could be good for. Cozy Mystery fans, probably, Magical Realism fans, not so much. Fantasy fans, if they also like Cozy Mysteries maybe. It’s such a melting pot of genres and themes that it’s hard to pinpoint the audience for this one. The bonus here is that each of these books is under 300 pages and pretty quick to get through if you want to give it a shot at least.
January 8, 2023
Mystery, Vodou, a New Orleans vibe, and a strong female protagonist. This book couldn't have been more fun if it tried!
Mambo Reina Dummond finds herself once again tasked with solving a murder, hunting down a con man, trying to become a mediocre cook, dealing with the other Houngans and Mambo's in New Orleans, and looking after her friends, all while dedicating her life in service to Erzulie AND facing her difficult on again, off again detective paramour. Weaving the hot humidity, music, food, celebration and the slow drawl that is Louisianna into this story, Veronica Henry has created a sequel that does what few do, it exceeds the first in the series.
I loved pretty much everything about this book. It blows right past all the ways that the practice of Voodoo has been misrepresented in media, culture, and film, and dives right into the very spiritual, gentle and kind belief system that is Haitian Vodou, and the American Voodoo. There is magic, yes, and when it rises to the surface, you better hold on to something, but the real magic in this is how Henry weaves post-Katrina New Orleans, with the search and longing for family, deep connection to community and service to it, and a woman who takes no guff from anyone, knows her strength and power and does what she wants or feels she needs to.
The supporting characters are equal strong, fully fleshed out human beings. They're funny, insightful, challenging, and I tell you, the Louisiana drawl is so strong in some of them that I found myself thinking IN the drawl (which was entertaining to no end!).
The mysteries Mambo Dummond is trying to solve, rope you in and make it extremely difficult to put this book down. The curiousity with what is going to happen with the other Voudouisants in the community ups the ante. Sometimes you feel like you can almost cut the tension of the book with a knife. I can't wait for the next one, especially with how this one ends! And if you want to know more, you'll have to just go read it yourself.
Mambo Reina Dummond finds herself once again tasked with solving a murder, hunting down a con man, trying to become a mediocre cook, dealing with the other Houngans and Mambo's in New Orleans, and looking after her friends, all while dedicating her life in service to Erzulie AND facing her difficult on again, off again detective paramour. Weaving the hot humidity, music, food, celebration and the slow drawl that is Louisianna into this story, Veronica Henry has created a sequel that does what few do, it exceeds the first in the series.
I loved pretty much everything about this book. It blows right past all the ways that the practice of Voodoo has been misrepresented in media, culture, and film, and dives right into the very spiritual, gentle and kind belief system that is Haitian Vodou, and the American Voodoo. There is magic, yes, and when it rises to the surface, you better hold on to something, but the real magic in this is how Henry weaves post-Katrina New Orleans, with the search and longing for family, deep connection to community and service to it, and a woman who takes no guff from anyone, knows her strength and power and does what she wants or feels she needs to.
The supporting characters are equal strong, fully fleshed out human beings. They're funny, insightful, challenging, and I tell you, the Louisiana drawl is so strong in some of them that I found myself thinking IN the drawl (which was entertaining to no end!).
The mysteries Mambo Dummond is trying to solve, rope you in and make it extremely difficult to put this book down. The curiousity with what is going to happen with the other Voudouisants in the community ups the ante. Sometimes you feel like you can almost cut the tension of the book with a knife. I can't wait for the next one, especially with how this one ends! And if you want to know more, you'll have to just go read it yourself.
October 18, 2022
The Foreign Exchange is the second book in a series (the first was titled The Quarter Storm) which follows Reina Dumond, a Vodou priestess and healer who has a knack for solving mysteries in New Orleans. In this book, Reina investigates a friend’s husband and uncovers a conspiracy of people involved in dark ritual magic.
The plot of the book moves quickly and the cast of characters, Reina’s friends and a love interest, are all engaging. What I loved about the book though, was the atmosphere of New Orleans and the history of Vodou magic. The book takes place at Halloween, lending a city steeped in mystery an even more intriguing appeal. Halloween in New Orleans is celebrated with a large parade because it occurs close to the end of hurricane season. Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath haunts the book, and the details transport the reader to New Orleans.
Although Vodou is sometimes popularly associated with dark magic, this book celebrates the traditions of Vodou, tracing them all the way back to Reina’s immigration from Haiti when she was young. Autumn in Haiti is described as a time that “cleared the path for change”, and each time Reina performs a ritual, the reader can feel her hope and desire for positive change. Reina creates spells and tinctures of protection with pink rose petals, white candles, and alligator teeth, and her shop is stocked with magic Vodou healing traditions. The book even includes a recipe for “Sweet Belly’s New Orleans Dirty Rice” which seems like a spell the readers create in their own kitchens.
Fans of mystery series will enjoy the plot and characters, and armchair travelers will enjoy the details that make them feel like they have taken a trip to New Orleans. I enjoyed it!
Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of the book in exchange for a fair review.
The plot of the book moves quickly and the cast of characters, Reina’s friends and a love interest, are all engaging. What I loved about the book though, was the atmosphere of New Orleans and the history of Vodou magic. The book takes place at Halloween, lending a city steeped in mystery an even more intriguing appeal. Halloween in New Orleans is celebrated with a large parade because it occurs close to the end of hurricane season. Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath haunts the book, and the details transport the reader to New Orleans.
Although Vodou is sometimes popularly associated with dark magic, this book celebrates the traditions of Vodou, tracing them all the way back to Reina’s immigration from Haiti when she was young. Autumn in Haiti is described as a time that “cleared the path for change”, and each time Reina performs a ritual, the reader can feel her hope and desire for positive change. Reina creates spells and tinctures of protection with pink rose petals, white candles, and alligator teeth, and her shop is stocked with magic Vodou healing traditions. The book even includes a recipe for “Sweet Belly’s New Orleans Dirty Rice” which seems like a spell the readers create in their own kitchens.
Fans of mystery series will enjoy the plot and characters, and armchair travelers will enjoy the details that make them feel like they have taken a trip to New Orleans. I enjoyed it!
Thank you to NetGalley for a free copy of the book in exchange for a fair review.
March 5, 2023
Here’s a mystery series with a unique main character - a vodou (voodoo) priestess (“mambo”) based in New Orleans! This is the second book in what looks to be a continuing series, starring Reina. I loved all the New Orleans atmosphere and details, the Haitian heritage, and the supporting characters like Tyka and Darryl.
Reina winds up investigating the doings of the husband of one of her clients, to help out her client and she gets sucked into some dangerous situations where she has to call on her vodou powers/magic. I really enjoyed learning more about vodou and its traditions. Reina’s powers revolve around water and New Orleans, with its high humidity, is the perfect spot for someone like Reina.
In addition to the mystery, there are some rather funny sections dealing with Reina’s continuing failures in the kitchen. Reina’s love interest, on the other hand, is a downer. I’m not on “Team Roman.” There are also quite a few references to the long-term effects of Hurricane Katrina.
There’s a bit of a cliffhanger ending, which is not something I like, but it does make you hope for a third book not too far in the future.
When I first heard of this series, I thought that it might be a cozy mystery series, because of Reina being an amateur sleuth, but these books are a bit too dark to be considered cozies.
Since it’s the second book in the series, I chose to read the first book first (The Quarter Storm). If you think you’ll want to read the first one, I suggest you do that before reading The Foreign Exchange, because there are references here that will spoil the first book’s mystery for you. If you want to jump in with this book, the author provides enough background for that to work well.
Thank you to NetGalley and 47North for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Reina winds up investigating the doings of the husband of one of her clients, to help out her client and she gets sucked into some dangerous situations where she has to call on her vodou powers/magic. I really enjoyed learning more about vodou and its traditions. Reina’s powers revolve around water and New Orleans, with its high humidity, is the perfect spot for someone like Reina.
In addition to the mystery, there are some rather funny sections dealing with Reina’s continuing failures in the kitchen. Reina’s love interest, on the other hand, is a downer. I’m not on “Team Roman.” There are also quite a few references to the long-term effects of Hurricane Katrina.
There’s a bit of a cliffhanger ending, which is not something I like, but it does make you hope for a third book not too far in the future.
When I first heard of this series, I thought that it might be a cozy mystery series, because of Reina being an amateur sleuth, but these books are a bit too dark to be considered cozies.
Since it’s the second book in the series, I chose to read the first book first (The Quarter Storm). If you think you’ll want to read the first one, I suggest you do that before reading The Foreign Exchange, because there are references here that will spoil the first book’s mystery for you. If you want to jump in with this book, the author provides enough background for that to work well.
Thank you to NetGalley and 47North for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
December 16, 2022
VH has done it again! I loved this book just as much as the first one and I cannot wait for the next one. This is becoming my absolute favorite mystery series.
February 28, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher 47North - pub date 2/28/2023. Unfortunately, I am a nitwit and didn't realize this was #2. Whoops. As I am of the opinion that most books in a non-epic mystery series should be readable without having read all the previous installments, I plunged ahead.
Besides the book has some of the best things - New Orleans, atmosphere, Voudou, a mystery-solving Mambo with a found family - so I could not resist. TL:DR - Overall, the book was a fast and relatively enjoyable read but, if I stopped and thought too much, I wanted to howl at how the solid setting/world, the sweet main character, and the high stakes main mystery get buried under the smaller pieces of chaff like a house under tree branches from a bad storm. Those last 50 pages? Unneccesary.
Good points about this book:
1. An impeccable and realistic and evocative feeling of New Orleans permeated the book. The author does a fantastic job painting the city in real colors and not its tourism clothing. She pays attention to everything from the landscape to the sounds and the odors. It feels real and rich and can make anyone who has been there homesick.
2. The author does not shy away from the ugly parts of the setting and is utterly honest when dealing with the long, slow climb back from Katrina.
3. The detailed, researched elements of Voudou. There is no cheapening of the relgion and its practices. It is respectful. It is balanced. It is organic. It is varied. Most importantly, like all religions and all magic and all belief, it can be used well and used badly but the use is not the fault of the source but the fault of the wielder.
Bad points : Well, it doesn't fully stand up without reading the first book but it's clear enough (and repeats enough points a few times) that you can get along without reading the first.
1. The plot and pacing are a bit... confused as to what they want to be. The main plot (the murder, the smuggled kids, what's going on with Ms Vangie's husband) - that all toodles along just fine with dashes of what you think are sub-plots (Reina's love life, Reina's friendship circle and their problems, dealing with fall-out from book one). It's a really good plot, too. It builds from small stakes to big stakes and has a suitably upsetting villain. But then the climax zips by in a handful of pages and you think it's over but the book keeps dawdling on for another 50 or so pages that bulk up those side quests to Big Things which only serves to make the climax smaller and make me wonder where it all is going. "Are we there yet, Mom?"
2. Reina is the sweetest of darlings and cares about things and wants so badly to do right and I rather like her and... I want to shake the hell out of her. This is her second "case". You would think she would have more sense in pursuing things. She nearly gets shot, jumps into things before she has proper protections, doesn't approach situations with a plan B and she fibs her head off left and right to the people who she should be most honest with. The fact that they lie to her as well is just distressing. I am hard-pressed to think of anyone who I feel actually cares for Reina fully and completely and without strings. Maybe Odi. Strangely, maybe Lucien. Call me crazy but I think if you actually love someone (romantically or platonically), you should not be spending half of your time self-editing or lying to them. The fact that she deliberatelly lies to her boyfriend and suspects he lies to her and then she justifies it as being totally sensible is very disheartening. She has no business being with Roman and vice versa. Just about every relationship Reina has is a game of "who has what control over the other person" and that gets exhausting. No wonder poor Reina gets wiped out so much. Reina, girl, it's okay to be single. It's okay to make demands of your friends.
3. ... Reina, I can't believe you honestly dismissed the obvious answer because of THAT reasoning. Are you that prideful or is it stupidity or is there something in this world that absolutely precludes it?
Besides the book has some of the best things - New Orleans, atmosphere, Voudou, a mystery-solving Mambo with a found family - so I could not resist. TL:DR - Overall, the book was a fast and relatively enjoyable read but, if I stopped and thought too much, I wanted to howl at how the solid setting/world, the sweet main character, and the high stakes main mystery get buried under the smaller pieces of chaff like a house under tree branches from a bad storm. Those last 50 pages? Unneccesary.
Good points about this book:
1. An impeccable and realistic and evocative feeling of New Orleans permeated the book. The author does a fantastic job painting the city in real colors and not its tourism clothing. She pays attention to everything from the landscape to the sounds and the odors. It feels real and rich and can make anyone who has been there homesick.
2. The author does not shy away from the ugly parts of the setting and is utterly honest when dealing with the long, slow climb back from Katrina.
3. The detailed, researched elements of Voudou. There is no cheapening of the relgion and its practices. It is respectful. It is balanced. It is organic. It is varied. Most importantly, like all religions and all magic and all belief, it can be used well and used badly but the use is not the fault of the source but the fault of the wielder.
Bad points : Well, it doesn't fully stand up without reading the first book but it's clear enough (and repeats enough points a few times) that you can get along without reading the first.
1. The plot and pacing are a bit... confused as to what they want to be. The main plot (the murder, the smuggled kids, what's going on with Ms Vangie's husband) - that all toodles along just fine with dashes of what you think are sub-plots (Reina's love life, Reina's friendship circle and their problems, dealing with fall-out from book one). It's a really good plot, too. It builds from small stakes to big stakes and has a suitably upsetting villain. But then the climax zips by in a handful of pages and you think it's over but the book keeps dawdling on for another 50 or so pages that bulk up those side quests to Big Things which only serves to make the climax smaller and make me wonder where it all is going. "Are we there yet, Mom?"
2. Reina is the sweetest of darlings and cares about things and wants so badly to do right and I rather like her and... I want to shake the hell out of her. This is her second "case". You would think she would have more sense in pursuing things. She nearly gets shot, jumps into things before she has proper protections, doesn't approach situations with a plan B and she fibs her head off left and right to the people who she should be most honest with. The fact that they lie to her as well is just distressing. I am hard-pressed to think of anyone who I feel actually cares for Reina fully and completely and without strings. Maybe Odi. Strangely, maybe Lucien. Call me crazy but I think if you actually love someone (romantically or platonically), you should not be spending half of your time self-editing or lying to them. The fact that she deliberatelly lies to her boyfriend and suspects he lies to her and then she justifies it as being totally sensible is very disheartening. She has no business being with Roman and vice versa. Just about every relationship Reina has is a game of "who has what control over the other person" and that gets exhausting. No wonder poor Reina gets wiped out so much. Reina, girl, it's okay to be single. It's okay to make demands of your friends.
3. ... Reina, I can't believe you honestly dismissed the obvious answer because of THAT reasoning. Are you that prideful or is it stupidity or is there something in this world that absolutely precludes it?
March 16, 2025
True Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Content/Trigger Warnings: Discussions about Hurricane Katrina and the aftereffects and repercussions, Death, Some violence, Discussions of appropriation, Money-based human trafficking (not sexual), Thoughts of wanting a child, Mention of cheating
"You can't just go around worrying about yourself; you have to take an interest in helping others too."
My Thoughts
After finishing the first book in this series, "The Quarter Storm," I was interested in picking up the second one to see whether or not the plot improved. While I enjoyed the first novel, there were still enough criticisms for me to not absolutely love it. But I always try to give a series a chance with the second book, as long as the first one wasn't completely terrible.
This sequel was definitely a modest improvement on the first one. Reina didn't spend most of the novel thinking about how much she wanted children, Roman Frost didn't play as big a role, and there was a lot more focus placed on the mystery and Reina's powers and community. All of made the mystery a little more solid, a little tighter.
That being said, there were still some issues. For me, one of the biggest ones is Reina and Roman's relationship. Unless something drastic happens, I don't see it going anywhere, and I would rather see Reina standing strong on her own than trying to hide herself for a man who can't respect her or her traditions. I see absolutely NO point to this relationship except to give her a tentative connection to the police, and we have that with a different character.
Another (minor) issue is the use of multi-POVs. Normally I don't mind, so long as it's used well. But the POV changes only twice in the entire novel, and the only thing it does it give readers some firsthand info that would have been more interesting had we found out through Reina's investigation.
A bigger problem is that at one point, it becomes glaringly obvious who did it and readers are left wondering how Reina doesn't see it. I know the reasons the author gives, I just can't completely believe them because Reina would be even more suspicious than I am.
All that being said, I did really enjoy returning to what is obviously a love letter to New Orleans and how much care the author puts into the depiction of Vodou. I also love seeing the little family Reina's built, and I just wish we could have gotten more of them. I also enjoyed the different themes and conversations that were brought up during the plot. It gives the reader something to think about, and makes some very good points.
Overall, if you've read and enjoyed the first novel, definitely move on to this one.
Content/Trigger Warnings: Discussions about Hurricane Katrina and the aftereffects and repercussions, Death, Some violence, Discussions of appropriation, Money-based human trafficking (not sexual), Thoughts of wanting a child, Mention of cheating
"You can't just go around worrying about yourself; you have to take an interest in helping others too."
My Thoughts
After finishing the first book in this series, "The Quarter Storm," I was interested in picking up the second one to see whether or not the plot improved. While I enjoyed the first novel, there were still enough criticisms for me to not absolutely love it. But I always try to give a series a chance with the second book, as long as the first one wasn't completely terrible.
This sequel was definitely a modest improvement on the first one. Reina didn't spend most of the novel thinking about how much she wanted children, Roman Frost didn't play as big a role, and there was a lot more focus placed on the mystery and Reina's powers and community. All of made the mystery a little more solid, a little tighter.
That being said, there were still some issues. For me, one of the biggest ones is Reina and Roman's relationship. Unless something drastic happens, I don't see it going anywhere, and I would rather see Reina standing strong on her own than trying to hide herself for a man who can't respect her or her traditions. I see absolutely NO point to this relationship except to give her a tentative connection to the police, and we have that with a different character.
Another (minor) issue is the use of multi-POVs. Normally I don't mind, so long as it's used well. But the POV changes only twice in the entire novel, and the only thing it does it give readers some firsthand info that would have been more interesting had we found out through Reina's investigation.
A bigger problem is that at one point, it becomes glaringly obvious who did it and readers are left wondering how Reina doesn't see it. I know the reasons the author gives, I just can't completely believe them because Reina would be even more suspicious than I am.
All that being said, I did really enjoy returning to what is obviously a love letter to New Orleans and how much care the author puts into the depiction of Vodou. I also love seeing the little family Reina's built, and I just wish we could have gotten more of them. I also enjoyed the different themes and conversations that were brought up during the plot. It gives the reader something to think about, and makes some very good points.
Overall, if you've read and enjoyed the first novel, definitely move on to this one.
July 7, 2023
Thoughtful, reverent, affectionate.
Our MC is a Vodou priestess with a lot of power and a lot of compassion. We follow them with their two besties, their on-again-off-again romance, their relationship with the lwa (spirits), and the local community of Vodou and Voodoo practitioners
Set in New Orleans and the surrounding area.
Growls, Howls, and Tail Wags 🐺🐕:
-👌The first book in this series introduced me to the genre of magical realism. This series follows a Vodou priestess healer and therefore the traditions and practices are based in real-life Haitian-African religions. Our MC and their magic is well-developed and includes considerations for how to ethically use such power and the controversies that arise.
-🤷♀️ I'm not sure this book is stand-alone. I read the first one but I had trouble recalling the characters and where we left off. As the story progressed, I was glad we didn't get so much re-capping, but it took me awhile to get to that point. I recommend reading them in order back-to-back or without long breaks between.
-😶 Some plot points were a struggle for me. It was inspired by the IRL exploitation of two teenagers with NBA dreams (https://www.si.com/nba/2020/03/27/nba...) but the murders and mysteries were presented in a fragmented, seemingly random way, and there was a lot of dialog where I just felt disinterested until we found out what was really going on. The ending isn't fully wrapped up but that's expected since it's a series.
-I generally avoid series because I tire of the characters and the plots start to get outlandish, but that's not happening here (so far). Mambo Reina is complex - she's loveable and aggravating. She isn't defined by any single role in her life. I think she's an example of a strong, but realistically vulnerable human being. I would LOVE this series to have Tyka's and Mambo Reina's amateur sleuthing evolve to a private investigator service (alongside Mambo Reina's continuing work as a priestess)🤞
Mood Reading Match Up:
-New Orleans amateur sleuthing with a sprinkling of grit and cozy mystery
-Vodou-based magical realism
-Found family...with IRL family energy (they annoy, frustrate, like not always love one another)
-Should-I-stay-or-should-I-go romance subplots
Content Heads-Up: Human trafficking (non-sexual). Hurricane Katrina (memories recalled on page). Loss of a parent. Excellent symbolism for cultural appropriation. Excellent rep for childless-but-want-a-child (female). Risk of homelessness.
Format: Kindle Unlimited
Our MC is a Vodou priestess with a lot of power and a lot of compassion. We follow them with their two besties, their on-again-off-again romance, their relationship with the lwa (spirits), and the local community of Vodou and Voodoo practitioners
Set in New Orleans and the surrounding area.
Growls, Howls, and Tail Wags 🐺🐕:
-👌The first book in this series introduced me to the genre of magical realism. This series follows a Vodou priestess healer and therefore the traditions and practices are based in real-life Haitian-African religions. Our MC and their magic is well-developed and includes considerations for how to ethically use such power and the controversies that arise.
-🤷♀️ I'm not sure this book is stand-alone. I read the first one but I had trouble recalling the characters and where we left off. As the story progressed, I was glad we didn't get so much re-capping, but it took me awhile to get to that point. I recommend reading them in order back-to-back or without long breaks between.
-😶 Some plot points were a struggle for me. It was inspired by the IRL exploitation of two teenagers with NBA dreams (https://www.si.com/nba/2020/03/27/nba...) but the murders and mysteries were presented in a fragmented, seemingly random way, and there was a lot of dialog where I just felt disinterested until we found out what was really going on. The ending isn't fully wrapped up but that's expected since it's a series.
-I generally avoid series because I tire of the characters and the plots start to get outlandish, but that's not happening here (so far). Mambo Reina is complex - she's loveable and aggravating. She isn't defined by any single role in her life. I think she's an example of a strong, but realistically vulnerable human being. I would LOVE this series to have Tyka's and Mambo Reina's amateur sleuthing evolve to a private investigator service (alongside Mambo Reina's continuing work as a priestess)🤞
Mood Reading Match Up:
-New Orleans amateur sleuthing with a sprinkling of grit and cozy mystery
-Vodou-based magical realism
-Found family...with IRL family energy (they annoy, frustrate, like not always love one another)
-Should-I-stay-or-should-I-go romance subplots
Content Heads-Up: Human trafficking (non-sexual). Hurricane Katrina (memories recalled on page). Loss of a parent. Excellent symbolism for cultural appropriation. Excellent rep for childless-but-want-a-child (female). Risk of homelessness.
Format: Kindle Unlimited
April 15, 2023
2.5 rounded up to 3
Last year I was in a reading rut and picked up the first Mambo Reina book and it made me enjoy reading again. I thought it was so good and had such atmosphere and magic weaved through it. I bought the second book straight away (on pre-order).
Reading the second book it nearly took me from a reading streak back to a rut again. There was something limp about this book. I think the 'cosy murder mystery' element of it should have taken a back seat and instead the focus should have been on the boy that they rescued and showed more about his training and interaction with Reina and Lucien. The "Foreign Exchange" element could have been wrapped a lot faster and then you could have showcased the characters more; because ultimately Reina and her friends make this book.
The book was written in a way that you had to have finished the first book, and then very shortly started reading the second - which is very frustrating. However it's a year between the two books - it wouldn't have hurt to explain a few things a bit more in a clear way. The explanation about Roman and the significance to Reina was badly written and confusing. A little bit of a recap wouldn't have hurt - it can be easily done and doesn't detract from the book.
Then there are the lies. She lies to Roman, Roman isn't really honest with her. Roman doesn't like her friends and they don't like him. Her friend Darryl who runs Lemon Drop goes to her Dad for help instead of her. It's never explained why because everyone has to keep their secrets. Even Tyka who signed up for School and then didn't go.
Her relationship with Roman was frustrating, and when he tries to help her she is more focussed on exacting revenge on her landlord than looking at the gift that Roman wants to give her.
Lastly is the ending and it's "hook" involving Houngan Walters to lead into the 3rd book. It's not a cliffhanger as most of the items in the book are resolved. The issue I have with this hook is this he is mentioned once or twice in the book. The second time only in passing and then something major happens to him and all I could think is - Do I care about this?
I am not so sure I would be as interested in buying the 3rd book based on this follow up
Last year I was in a reading rut and picked up the first Mambo Reina book and it made me enjoy reading again. I thought it was so good and had such atmosphere and magic weaved through it. I bought the second book straight away (on pre-order).
Reading the second book it nearly took me from a reading streak back to a rut again. There was something limp about this book. I think the 'cosy murder mystery' element of it should have taken a back seat and instead the focus should have been on the boy that they rescued and showed more about his training and interaction with Reina and Lucien. The "Foreign Exchange" element could have been wrapped a lot faster and then you could have showcased the characters more; because ultimately Reina and her friends make this book.
The book was written in a way that you had to have finished the first book, and then very shortly started reading the second - which is very frustrating. However it's a year between the two books - it wouldn't have hurt to explain a few things a bit more in a clear way. The explanation about Roman and the significance to Reina was badly written and confusing. A little bit of a recap wouldn't have hurt - it can be easily done and doesn't detract from the book.
Then there are the lies. She lies to Roman, Roman isn't really honest with her. Roman doesn't like her friends and they don't like him. Her friend Darryl who runs Lemon Drop goes to her Dad for help instead of her. It's never explained why because everyone has to keep their secrets. Even Tyka who signed up for School and then didn't go.
Her relationship with Roman was frustrating, and when he tries to help her she is more focussed on exacting revenge on her landlord than looking at the gift that Roman wants to give her.
Lastly is the ending and it's "hook" involving Houngan Walters to lead into the 3rd book. It's not a cliffhanger as most of the items in the book are resolved. The issue I have with this hook is this he is mentioned once or twice in the book. The second time only in passing and then something major happens to him and all I could think is - Do I care about this?
I am not so sure I would be as interested in buying the 3rd book based on this follow up
August 5, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Foreign Exchange is the second Mambo Reina urban fantasy mystery by Veronica G. Henry. Released 28th Feb 2023, it's 287 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.The first book is also currently available on KU.
This is a modern paranormal fantasy mystery featuring a strong and intelligent (if occasionally foolhardy) female protagonist. It's set in New Orleans and the setting is absolutely indelible. The author does a wonderful job of place and description, the entire book is redolent with the sights and sounds of NOLA. The verisimilitude from the author's descriptions of the area and culture, especially in the aftermath and rebuilding after hurricane Katrina add a lot to the story.
The plotting and background are well paced and the mystery is constructed believably within the constraints of the genre, but a slightly less than satisfying denouement and resolution. It's the second book in the series, but works well enough as a standalone. The author is adept enough to provide enough backstory that readers coming into the series with this book won't have any trouble keeping up.
There are some graphic descriptions, including body horror and rough language. It's not at all derivative, but fans of Tanya Huff and Jim Butcher will find a lot to love here.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Foreign Exchange is the second Mambo Reina urban fantasy mystery by Veronica G. Henry. Released 28th Feb 2023, it's 287 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.The first book is also currently available on KU.
This is a modern paranormal fantasy mystery featuring a strong and intelligent (if occasionally foolhardy) female protagonist. It's set in New Orleans and the setting is absolutely indelible. The author does a wonderful job of place and description, the entire book is redolent with the sights and sounds of NOLA. The verisimilitude from the author's descriptions of the area and culture, especially in the aftermath and rebuilding after hurricane Katrina add a lot to the story.
The plotting and background are well paced and the mystery is constructed believably within the constraints of the genre, but a slightly less than satisfying denouement and resolution. It's the second book in the series, but works well enough as a standalone. The author is adept enough to provide enough backstory that readers coming into the series with this book won't have any trouble keeping up.
There are some graphic descriptions, including body horror and rough language. It's not at all derivative, but fans of Tanya Huff and Jim Butcher will find a lot to love here.
Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
March 23, 2023
Full Review
Many thanks to 47North, Veronica G. Henry, and NetGalley for an Advanced Review Copy in exchange for an honest review. My review/reaction is voluntary, all thoughts are mine and unbiased, and receiving the Advanced Review Copy does not influence my rating and/or recommendation.
What Worked for Me - Found Family
I enjoyed the small moments we got with Darryl and Tyka, and wish we had more. I’m a sucker for friendships where friends make time for each other. The last time they were together was memorable and important to me as a reader because we got to see how people show up for Reina outside of the sleuthing.
I highlight this because most of the book creates a visual of Reina being a character that is lonely and surrounded by people. Many of her relationships are heavily transactional. It was good to see that that isn't always so.
I hope there's more of this trio in the next book and I'm equally curious as to whether they did more together in the first one.
What Did Not Work for Me - Pacing
The book is under 300 pages and seemed stilted for most of my reading experience. I think the location descriptions and character movement negatively impacted the pacing. It felt similar to listening to someone speak and not saying much, resulting in an interaction that feels longer than it really is.
When going into this book, to get past the pacing issue, remember that there is a mystery central to the story, and the most important thing is to consume the meat and leave the bones.
Final Verdict
3.5/5 stars, I recommend this book. The Foreign Exchange was reminiscent of a cozy mystery with Haitian voodoo elements. I must share that I did not know that this book was part of a series, and I'm sure my rating would vary if I did. In addition, the pacing of the book was slow and felt oddly chaotic.
One redeeming quality of the book was the reveals between the 65% and 93% marks. Somewhere around there, there was a shift in my perspective and attention to the storyline. It also helps that, although how the story ended was not my favorite, the cliffhanger got me curious.
I enjoyed the author’s writing style and am looking forward to other books by her. I’m excited to experience whatever storyline she develops for the next book in this series.
Many thanks to 47North, Veronica G. Henry, and NetGalley for an Advanced Review Copy in exchange for an honest review. My review/reaction is voluntary, all thoughts are mine and unbiased, and receiving the Advanced Review Copy does not influence my rating and/or recommendation.
What Worked for Me - Found Family
I enjoyed the small moments we got with Darryl and Tyka, and wish we had more. I’m a sucker for friendships where friends make time for each other. The last time they were together was memorable and important to me as a reader because we got to see how people show up for Reina outside of the sleuthing.
I highlight this because most of the book creates a visual of Reina being a character that is lonely and surrounded by people. Many of her relationships are heavily transactional. It was good to see that that isn't always so.
I hope there's more of this trio in the next book and I'm equally curious as to whether they did more together in the first one.
What Did Not Work for Me - Pacing
The book is under 300 pages and seemed stilted for most of my reading experience. I think the location descriptions and character movement negatively impacted the pacing. It felt similar to listening to someone speak and not saying much, resulting in an interaction that feels longer than it really is.
When going into this book, to get past the pacing issue, remember that there is a mystery central to the story, and the most important thing is to consume the meat and leave the bones.
Final Verdict
3.5/5 stars, I recommend this book. The Foreign Exchange was reminiscent of a cozy mystery with Haitian voodoo elements. I must share that I did not know that this book was part of a series, and I'm sure my rating would vary if I did. In addition, the pacing of the book was slow and felt oddly chaotic.
One redeeming quality of the book was the reveals between the 65% and 93% marks. Somewhere around there, there was a shift in my perspective and attention to the storyline. It also helps that, although how the story ended was not my favorite, the cliffhanger got me curious.
I enjoyed the author’s writing style and am looking forward to other books by her. I’m excited to experience whatever storyline she develops for the next book in this series.
March 28, 2023
The main character, Mambo Reina, is a fully fleshed out character. She has her good points and her flaws. Often she rushes in where angels fear to tread seemingly without thought to the possible consequences. Despite the flaws, she is a likeable amateur detective. Her beau, Roman, I didn't like as much. I don't think they are well suited for each other, but time will tell. Her found family on the other hand, including Darryl and Tyka, are a perfect fit. And Houngan Lucien is full of surprises.
The pace of the novel was good. It started out slow and speeded up as the book went on. It did slow down again towards the end, but I think that's because it was setting up possibilities for a sequel.
I did like the plot. I felt it was quite original and the author points out in the afterword that something similar had been in the news at one point, but unsurprisingly I missed it. I liked how she was set on her course by a question from Miss Vangie. And that led to a whole domino chain of events. Also, in this book it shows just how strongly her desire to find her mother motivates Reina.
Overall, I give this book 4 out of 5 stars. There is more than one mystery to solve even though they are connected. The plot idea is original as is Mambo Reina. It moves along at a good rate once it gets going. And I'm looking forward to book 3. I need to see where some of the loose ends will be sewed up.
If you enjoy paranormal cozies with a fleshed out female lead, this could be a good book for you as well as the previous book in the series, Quarter Storm. It's definitely worth a read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my review.
The pace of the novel was good. It started out slow and speeded up as the book went on. It did slow down again towards the end, but I think that's because it was setting up possibilities for a sequel.
I did like the plot. I felt it was quite original and the author points out in the afterword that something similar had been in the news at one point, but unsurprisingly I missed it. I liked how she was set on her course by a question from Miss Vangie. And that led to a whole domino chain of events. Also, in this book it shows just how strongly her desire to find her mother motivates Reina.
Overall, I give this book 4 out of 5 stars. There is more than one mystery to solve even though they are connected. The plot idea is original as is Mambo Reina. It moves along at a good rate once it gets going. And I'm looking forward to book 3. I need to see where some of the loose ends will be sewed up.
If you enjoy paranormal cozies with a fleshed out female lead, this could be a good book for you as well as the previous book in the series, Quarter Storm. It's definitely worth a read.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my review.
May 22, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Veronica G. Henry’s “The Foreign Exchange” is a thrilling and captivating mystery novel set in the enchanting city of New Orleans. The story follows Reina Dumond, a Vodou priestess turned amateur detective, as she tries to uncover the truth behind her friend Evangeline Stiles’ marital problems. However, her investigation leads her to something much more sinister - a conspiracy that involves exploiting vulnerable youth and ritual magic of the vodouisant kind.
The writing in this book is excellent, and the world-building is impeccable. The author has done an outstanding job of creating an immersive setting that makes you feel like you are right there in New Orleans. The plot is well-crafted and highly entertaining, with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing until the very end.
What sets this book apart from other mysteries is its unique blend of Vodou/occult themes and elements. The author seamlessly weaves these into the story, giving it a fascinating depth that will leave readers thoroughly engaged.
The characters are well-developed and intriguing, particularly Reina Dumond, who is a strong and capable protagonist. Her evolving skills as a healer and sleuth make her a compelling character to follow. I also enjoyed the supporting cast of characters, including Darryl and Tyka.
Overall, “The Foreign Exchange” was an enjoyable read that held up well as a standalone novel. As someone who loves books set in New Orleans with occult themes, I found this book to be right up my alley. If you’re looking for an engrossing mystery with supernatural elements, then I would highly recommend giving this book a read!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
Veronica G. Henry’s “The Foreign Exchange” is a thrilling and captivating mystery novel set in the enchanting city of New Orleans. The story follows Reina Dumond, a Vodou priestess turned amateur detective, as she tries to uncover the truth behind her friend Evangeline Stiles’ marital problems. However, her investigation leads her to something much more sinister - a conspiracy that involves exploiting vulnerable youth and ritual magic of the vodouisant kind.
The writing in this book is excellent, and the world-building is impeccable. The author has done an outstanding job of creating an immersive setting that makes you feel like you are right there in New Orleans. The plot is well-crafted and highly entertaining, with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing until the very end.
What sets this book apart from other mysteries is its unique blend of Vodou/occult themes and elements. The author seamlessly weaves these into the story, giving it a fascinating depth that will leave readers thoroughly engaged.
The characters are well-developed and intriguing, particularly Reina Dumond, who is a strong and capable protagonist. Her evolving skills as a healer and sleuth make her a compelling character to follow. I also enjoyed the supporting cast of characters, including Darryl and Tyka.
Overall, “The Foreign Exchange” was an enjoyable read that held up well as a standalone novel. As someone who loves books set in New Orleans with occult themes, I found this book to be right up my alley. If you’re looking for an engrossing mystery with supernatural elements, then I would highly recommend giving this book a read!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
August 31, 2023
The Foreign Exchange is the second Mambo Reina urban fantasy mystery by Veronica G. Henry. Released 28th Feb 2023, it's 287 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents and interactive links and references throughout. I've become enamoured of ebooks with interactive forms lately.
This is a contemporary paranormal fantasy mystery with a strong and intelligent (though occasionally reckless) female lead. It takes place in New Orleans, which is a memorable setting. The author does an excellent job of background and description; the entire book is infused with the sights and sounds of New Orleans. The author's honesty in reporting on the location and culture, particularly in the aftermath and rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina, lends a lot to the account.
Mambo Reina can't turn down a needy customer, leading to her inquiry into another murder with Vodou overtones. Mambo Reina enlists the services of Darryl and Tyka to trace down the cash's connection to the dead guy as she tries to figure out why her client's spouse transferred a significant sum of money into their bank account with no explanation. Along the way, she must escape her ex-boyfriend turned current boyfriend, Detective Frost, who is not pleased with her amateur sleuthing.
Mambo Reina discovers a young man with talents similar to her own while investigating and is forced to join forces with frenemy Lucien to help him stay in the nation.
This novel was jam-packed with action.
#bookreview #TheForeignExchange #NetGalley
This is a contemporary paranormal fantasy mystery with a strong and intelligent (though occasionally reckless) female lead. It takes place in New Orleans, which is a memorable setting. The author does an excellent job of background and description; the entire book is infused with the sights and sounds of New Orleans. The author's honesty in reporting on the location and culture, particularly in the aftermath and rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina, lends a lot to the account.
Mambo Reina can't turn down a needy customer, leading to her inquiry into another murder with Vodou overtones. Mambo Reina enlists the services of Darryl and Tyka to trace down the cash's connection to the dead guy as she tries to figure out why her client's spouse transferred a significant sum of money into their bank account with no explanation. Along the way, she must escape her ex-boyfriend turned current boyfriend, Detective Frost, who is not pleased with her amateur sleuthing.
Mambo Reina discovers a young man with talents similar to her own while investigating and is forced to join forces with frenemy Lucien to help him stay in the nation.
This novel was jam-packed with action.
#bookreview #TheForeignExchange #NetGalley
June 6, 2025
TL;DR: An intriguing second in a unique series.
Source: NetGalley , Thank you so much to the publisher!
Plot: Mambo Reina is attempting to solve a client’s mystery and gets caught up in so much more.
Characters: I liked the variety of the cast here and really was cheering for a lot of them. Not the copy boyfriend though, I am dying to see what happens there.
Setting: While the people of New Orleans felt real and deep I didn’t get as much from the world around them.
Mystery: This had me thinking and pondering the whole way. I really enjoyed this aspect of the story.
Thoughts:
The Foreign Exchange is going to be a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys old school urban fantasy but with a more modern twist. We’re following Mambo Reina, a Vodou priestess working after some big events in her previous book. Full honesty - I didn’t know this was a sequel but I still enjoyed this and was able to read without that previous knowledge.
We see her day to day with small time clients and jobs but how these can all affect the mystery at large. One client asks Reina to look into a husband and along the way pieces fall into place from friends, other clients, and Reina’s own intuition. This I think was the strongest aspect of this book. It is focusing on the community of New Orleans. The city itself doesn’t have the biggest personality in setting, but the people and community shine here.
The ending has a great hook (though I don’t see a third listed anywhere) and the whole progression of the plot was impressive. Veronica G. Henry doesn’t shy away from real world issues and really hooks you in with unique and interesting twists. If you’re an urban fantasy fan - this is a great one to pick up.
Source: NetGalley , Thank you so much to the publisher!
Plot: Mambo Reina is attempting to solve a client’s mystery and gets caught up in so much more.
Characters: I liked the variety of the cast here and really was cheering for a lot of them. Not the copy boyfriend though, I am dying to see what happens there.
Setting: While the people of New Orleans felt real and deep I didn’t get as much from the world around them.
Mystery: This had me thinking and pondering the whole way. I really enjoyed this aspect of the story.
Thoughts:
The Foreign Exchange is going to be a fantastic read for anyone who enjoys old school urban fantasy but with a more modern twist. We’re following Mambo Reina, a Vodou priestess working after some big events in her previous book. Full honesty - I didn’t know this was a sequel but I still enjoyed this and was able to read without that previous knowledge.
We see her day to day with small time clients and jobs but how these can all affect the mystery at large. One client asks Reina to look into a husband and along the way pieces fall into place from friends, other clients, and Reina’s own intuition. This I think was the strongest aspect of this book. It is focusing on the community of New Orleans. The city itself doesn’t have the biggest personality in setting, but the people and community shine here.
The ending has a great hook (though I don’t see a third listed anywhere) and the whole progression of the plot was impressive. Veronica G. Henry doesn’t shy away from real world issues and really hooks you in with unique and interesting twists. If you’re an urban fantasy fan - this is a great one to pick up.
February 2, 2023
This was a fantastic trip back to New Orleans to visit Mambo Reina. A standout sequel that tests both the reader and the main character's perceptions, biases both conscious and un-, and prejudices. Henry knocked it out of the park with a book that surpasses it's predecessor, which was no easy feat. Where Quarter Storm shines as a peek into the lives of New Orleanians a decade after the storm, The Foreign Exchange both broadens the scope to the global level, while taking on an exacting study of the survivors and the citizens, and how perception can absolutely skew interpretation.
Mambo Reina delights as a stubborn detective, representing the people and issues the NOPD would rather ignore. From the children and youths she works with, to the relationships forged among long-standing citizens of the city and the street, she is a clear voice in the great, the good, the bad, and the worse in a city that survives.
I highly recommend this series for lovers of the Crescent City, magical realism, and plucky detectives.
Knowing which players have now entered the field, I am Super Excited for the third novel.
Mambo Reina delights as a stubborn detective, representing the people and issues the NOPD would rather ignore. From the children and youths she works with, to the relationships forged among long-standing citizens of the city and the street, she is a clear voice in the great, the good, the bad, and the worse in a city that survives.
I highly recommend this series for lovers of the Crescent City, magical realism, and plucky detectives.
Knowing which players have now entered the field, I am Super Excited for the third novel.
December 12, 2022
This universe is a little unique in the urban fantasy/paranormal thriller genre as it deals with Vodou in a more positive way with it being the central paranormal element. In this latest, Reina is drawn into another mystery when one of her clients asks her help in finding out why her husband has $5000 in their account. While in the process, she steps in the middle of something even more sinister. The mystery in this almost took a background to the great descriptions, interesting characters, and Reina’s relationship with Roman. She also came across in this book as less experienced and more arrogant than in the last one. I’m also not feeling Roman as much in this one considering the actions that happened (no spoilers). However, this was still an enjoyable read, and I’m glad that Lucian and Reina have found common ground so to speak. With all this and the revelations at the end, I’m ready for the next book in the series. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
April 24, 2023
This is the second of a series revolving around Mambo (an honorific for a Voodoo (or Vodou) priestess) Reina Dumond. Get it--- Queen of the World. Not surprisingly, it is based in New Orleans. Mambo Dumond tends to jump in with both feet to get her clients out of scrapes, often using Vodou. In doing so she tends to irritate her man-friend/lover, who happens to be a detective on the New Orleans police force. The main characters are surrounded by others to enhance local flavor.
If this sounds somewhat corny, it is. But so was Harry Potter. There are a few Vodou practitioners, many of whom get deeply involved in the plots beside enhancing the Big Easy background. Everyone else is a muggle. No wands, but potions and spells galore. Much more actual gore than Harry and his crew ever had to face. Once you get into the Voudou language (which is genuine based upon regular use of an on-line dictionary), these books are fun.
If this sounds somewhat corny, it is. But so was Harry Potter. There are a few Vodou practitioners, many of whom get deeply involved in the plots beside enhancing the Big Easy background. Everyone else is a muggle. No wands, but potions and spells galore. Much more actual gore than Harry and his crew ever had to face. Once you get into the Voudou language (which is genuine based upon regular use of an on-line dictionary), these books are fun.
May 2, 2023
Title: The Foreign Exchange
Author: Veronica G. Henry
Release Date: February 28th, 2023
Page Count: 286
Format: Netgalley and Audiobook
Start Date: April 24th, 2023
Finish Date: May 2nd, 2023
Rating: 5 Stars
Review:
I really enjoy books like this. It's a cozy mystery. This one has a lot of culture ingrained in it. Books like these make me want to go to New Orleans and just enjoy the atmosphere. I also really loved getting to know these characters better. This is the sequel to The Quarter Storm. They can be read independently, but I strongly recommend reading them in order. I really can't wait to see other books in this series released. I would also like to make a nod to the narrator. I loved her performance. It really put that much flair to the series in my opinion. I fully recommend these books. I'm glad I found them. The cover is gorgeous as well!
Important to Note: Violence
Author: Veronica G. Henry
Release Date: February 28th, 2023
Page Count: 286
Format: Netgalley and Audiobook
Start Date: April 24th, 2023
Finish Date: May 2nd, 2023
Rating: 5 Stars
Review:
I really enjoy books like this. It's a cozy mystery. This one has a lot of culture ingrained in it. Books like these make me want to go to New Orleans and just enjoy the atmosphere. I also really loved getting to know these characters better. This is the sequel to The Quarter Storm. They can be read independently, but I strongly recommend reading them in order. I really can't wait to see other books in this series released. I would also like to make a nod to the narrator. I loved her performance. It really put that much flair to the series in my opinion. I fully recommend these books. I'm glad I found them. The cover is gorgeous as well!
Important to Note: Violence
December 10, 2022
I feel ambivalent about this second book in the series.
It still has all the interesting vodou background and the cool magical realism, but the murder mystery was pretty lacking in excitement. It starts off really slow compared to the previous book. Then the reveal and climax were a bit underwhelming to be honest.
A lot of characters were introduced, maybe more than necessary. I also felt that Mambo Reina was less likeable in this book. She came off as overly confident in her abilities and the relationship with Roman seemed toxic. I ended up liking Lucien and Kiah more than Reina!
The book ends with a set up for a third book and I admit that I kind of want to read it, despite my disappointment with this one.
Thanks to 47North and NetGalley for providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It still has all the interesting vodou background and the cool magical realism, but the murder mystery was pretty lacking in excitement. It starts off really slow compared to the previous book. Then the reveal and climax were a bit underwhelming to be honest.
A lot of characters were introduced, maybe more than necessary. I also felt that Mambo Reina was less likeable in this book. She came off as overly confident in her abilities and the relationship with Roman seemed toxic. I ended up liking Lucien and Kiah more than Reina!
The book ends with a set up for a third book and I admit that I kind of want to read it, despite my disappointment with this one.
Thanks to 47North and NetGalley for providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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