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Ginger Gold Mystery #20
Murder at the Boxing Club
Murder’s a knockout!
Despite her misgivings and general distaste for fighting sports, Mrs. Ginger Reed, also known as Lady Gold, agrees to attend a boxing match to support the cousin of her adopted son, a street fighter who’s quickly risen in the ranks.
But when his opponent, the presumed champion-to-be drops out and then drops dead, Ginger and her husband, Basil, a chief inspector at Scotland Yard, investigate. Was the fighter dead because of sports-betting gone awry? Were London gangs involved? And has an old, but newly present danger returned to threaten the Reed family?
When one of their own falls prey, the gloves come off and the fight becomes personal. Can Ginger and Basil save their family and stop a killer before the towel is thrown in the ring?
Despite her misgivings and general distaste for fighting sports, Mrs. Ginger Reed, also known as Lady Gold, agrees to attend a boxing match to support the cousin of her adopted son, a street fighter who’s quickly risen in the ranks.
But when his opponent, the presumed champion-to-be drops out and then drops dead, Ginger and her husband, Basil, a chief inspector at Scotland Yard, investigate. Was the fighter dead because of sports-betting gone awry? Were London gangs involved? And has an old, but newly present danger returned to threaten the Reed family?
When one of their own falls prey, the gloves come off and the fight becomes personal. Can Ginger and Basil save their family and stop a killer before the towel is thrown in the ring?
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2022
254 people are currently reading
204 people want to read
About the author
Lee Strauss
129 books2,348 followersFor fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.
Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.
NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold
For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com
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August 2, 2022AVAILABLE NOW
Get it on Amazon: https://books2read.com/GingerGold-Box...
CHAPTER ONE
Ginger Reed, also known by some as Lady Gold, held up two clip-on earrings to her ears, one a hoop of small turquoise beads and the other a delicate crystal-encrusted teardrop. The beauty of the current short and sassy hairstyles was that they allowed for ear decorations to be easily seen, and Ginger’s red bob was evidence of that. She chose the teardrops, then completed her make-up: smoky shadow reaching her thinly plucked, arched eyebrows; a circle of red parked on each cheekbone; and her lips shining with luxurious pink.
Catching her husband’s warm hazel eyes through the mirror’s reflection, she asked, “What does one wear to a boxing match?” She answered her own question, saying, “Subdued is preferred, I gather.”
“Sports betting attracts commoners, high society, and highbrow alike,” Basil said. “You’ll stand out more no matter what you choose, I’m afraid.”
Ginger selected a burgundy suit with a pleated skirt that fell to mid-calf, a button-down jacket with a matching belt that rested low on the hips, and a matching cloche hat. If it weren’t for Marvin Elliot being in the ring, she wouldn’t be going. She despised these boorish events and thought them rather reminiscent of the barbarism of the Roman circus.
“You’re sure Marvin shall be all right?” Ginger asked as she donned a blouse.
“He’s been fighting since he joined the navy,” Basil said. “He’s young, energetic, and has strong survival instincts.”
Ginger groaned. “He needn’t require survival instincts if he’d behaved.”
Marvin was the cousin of Scout, Ginger and Basil’s adopted son, and had recently been dishonourably discharged from the navy.
Basil glanced over, pausing at his wardrobe where he was selecting his attire. “You don’t have to come, love, if you find it so very disagreeable.”
Ginger glanced about the room, once her childhood chambers, which had been redecorated to suit her maturity and marital status. The heavy, ornately carved wood furnishings included a sitting area with a small table and two gold-and-white striped chairs in front of the windows. The thought of spending the evening lounging in the comfort of her four-poster bed, playing with her nine-month-old daughter Rosa, and then later reading Mrs. Christie’s The Big Four did seem appealing.
However, other wives and sweethearts attended these events, and if Basil continued attending, she wanted to know what the fuss was about. Seeing Marvin again would be a bonus, as she hadn’t seen the young man for a few months after his employment with the circus. Ginger had been relieved when he’d chosen to stay behind after the circus moved on, but she did wish he’d found a less dangerous way to earn a living.
“You’re sure Marvin is up to the task?” Ginger asked. She slipped on the suit jacket, then fastened the buttons and the belt. “It seems like this has all happened so fast.”
“The lad has had a most extraordinary rise in the rankings,” Basil conceded. “A testament to his talent.”
“But isn’t he fighting that Sid Lester fellow? A professional?”
Basil raised a brow. His brown hair, shaved short on the sides, shone with grey, and the top was oiled and neatly combed over to one side. A decade Ginger’s senior and now in his forties, Basil remained attractive even with the deepening wrinkles and greying temples.
“You’ve heard about Sid Lester?” he said.
Ginger nodded. “I’ve been following the fights in the newspapers. He looks like a big man and is much older than Marvin.”
“The photographs are misleading,” Basil said. “They’re both middleweight. Lester’s face has taken more of a beating.” He put on a short summer jacket instead of his usual trench coat, then selected a flat cap, a marked change from his usual trilby. He must’ve noticed Ginger’s questioning look as he explained, “I don’t want to look like a copper. It makes folks uneasy.”
The flat cap made Ginger uneasy, as it wasn’t a look she was used to seeing on Basil. “Are we ready?” she asked.
Basil held out his hand. “Let’s go.”
Ginger loved how they still felt like newlyweds, married only three years after all. They stopped at the nursery to give Rosa a kiss and a hug. Their daughter had pulled herself to a standing position in her crib, holding on to the metal rails with fat little fingers. She bounced excitedly when she spotted her parents, and Ginger’s heart filled as Basil swooped his little daughter into his arms—surprising Abby Green, the nanny—and patted Rosa’s dark hair. Except for her green eyes, which she’d got from Ginger, she looked like her daddy.
After taking her turn to hold Rosa, Ginger handed the child back to the nanny. “Good night, Rosa.”
Leaving the nursery, Ginger and Basil headed down the long corridor to the broad, curving staircase that opened to the entranceway. A large chandelier hung from the high ceiling and sparkled over the polished marble floors. They were halfway down when thirteen-year-old Scout raced around the corner and up the stairs. Boss, Ginger’s little Boston terrier, was on his heels.
“Whoa!” Basil said. “Where’s the fire?”
His cheeks flushed and straw-coloured hair a mess, Scout huffed, “Are you going to Marvin’s fight?”
“We are,” Ginger said.
Scout’s round eyes blinked rapidly. “Can I come? Please! I want to see Marvin fight!”
Ginger shot Basil a sideways glance. She’d hoped they would’ve been able to leave before Scout returned from his riding lesson.
“Not this time,” Ginger said. “We’re about to leave, and we’ll be late.”
“I’m ready!” Scout insisted.
“Son,” Basil said, “you smell like a horse. And you’re too young to get in.”
Ginger wasn’t sure if this was true, though she hoped there would be an age limit to entry. Regardless, she was ready to impose one on her son.
Scout’s shoulders, thin yet widening with pubescence, drooped. “I hate being so young!”
“Enjoy your youth whilst you can,” Ginger said. “Now, go upstairs and bathe before the whole house smells like a stable.”
Scout trudged upstairs in reluctant defeat. Even so, he’d become much more amiable since the debacle at the circus. Ginger had to acknowledge that their son, having spent ten years struggling on the streets of London, would never fully conform to the new world of which he was now part. His disastrous experience at Kingswell Academy had proven that he’d never fit in with the children of the elite.
In the back garden, Basil reversed his forest-green 1922 Austin out of the garage, then jumped out to open the passenger door for Ginger. Once they were both seated inside, Basil turned to her and said, “If it gets too distasteful for you, just say the word, and we’ll leave.”
Ginger patted Basil’s arm with appreciation. “I’ll do my best to stomach it.”
“I’ll wager you’ve never been to a venue quite like this before,” Basil said as he and Ginger headed to the second-tier section of the Bethnal Green Boxing Club in the East End. Their hard wooden seats sat on a balcony that surrounded a boxing ring one floor below, surrounded by collapsible seats arranged in rows almost right up the side of the ring.
“No, I certainly haven’t,” Ginger said, checking their ticket stubs.
“Yes, this is the right spot, my dear. I didn’t think you wanted to be in the lower stall section. I think it might be rather close to the kind of action planned for tonight.” He pointed down at the scene below them. “It’s not exactly the Royal Ballet or the London Symphony Orchestra.”
“Quite.” Ginger scanned the lower-floor seats.
Basil felt concerned that his wife would want to leave after the first round. He hoped that by sitting higher up and away from the ring, there at least would be little danger of spit or sweat from the boxers hitting them. That, he thought ruefully, would guarantee a quick exit.
“That’s where the judges and the press gallery sit.” Basil pointed to some empty seats beside the ring. A long wooden table with a large golden boxing bell was placed in the middle.
“The ring official just hits the bell with his palm at the beginning and end of every round,” Basil remarked.
“No doubt a lot of training is required for that job,” Ginger said sarcastically.
“Well, at least one would have to keep one’s eye on the clock.”
“I might be doing the same,” Ginger said under her breath.
“I heard that.” Basil smiled and nudged her with his shoulder. “I hate to inform you, but these fights have the potential to go a full ten rounds.”
“What fun.”
Basil chuckled. “I’ll bet you your next fancy hat you’ll be surprised at how the time goes.”
“I don’t doubt that,” Ginger said, “but for your information, my hats aren’t fancy. They’re elegant and fashionable. You don’t spot a Reboux original from Paris and call it fancy.”
“Well, no, I wouldn’t, of course,” Basil said with a hint of tease in his voice. “No . . . the boys down at the Yard would call it fancy, but certainly not me.” He adjusted his flat cap. “Inspector Sanders, for example, is a good man but certainly not in tune with the latest fashions like I am.”
That earned him a raised eyebrow and a wry smile from Ginger.
Quiet for a moment, Basil then said, “The Bethnal Green Boxing Club Hall has been around since around 1884.” Thinking that perhaps a little history would make Ginger more comfortable with her surroundings, he went on. “It seats around two hundred people at its fullest, which I think we might see tonight.”
He waved his arm expansively around the large room. The crowd in the packed hall comprised mostly of men, had a surprising number of women as well. He held up a printed brochure. “This club has produced a lot of champion boxers, including Sid Lester.”
“May I?” Ginger reached for the brochure.
“He’s a formidable pugilist, all right.” Basil nodded at an image of a shirtless, barrel-chested man with his bare fists held up in front of him. Sid Lester’s nose was unnaturally crooked, and his eyes looked like dark, soulless pools as he glared at the camera. “They nicknamed him ‘The Midnight Train’ because he comes up with the goods every night right on time,” Basil said. “Even the press is afraid to interview him. They say he’s like an enraged bull in the ring.” Basil blew air out of his cheeks. “He’s been London’s champion middleweight boxer for almost eight years running now. His hands are larger than what would seem suitable for his size, and his punches seem to go right through his opponents. In fact, his gloves are custom-made to make room for his big fists. They are like steam shovels.”
Ginger’s hand went to her throat. “And this is the fellow Marvin is fighting tonight?” She stabbed the photograph of Marvin with a long fingernail. “He looks . . . well, not up to the task.”
Basil placed a reassuring palm on Ginger’s arm. “From what I’ve been told,” he started, “Marvin is exceptionally fast in the ring.”
“He shall have to be!” Ginger stared at the two men in the brochure with a deep concern written all over her face.
“I’ll tell you one thing,” Basil continued. “He must be very talented to have risen in the ranks this fast to get a shot at Sid Lester. Perhaps in part due to how outspoken Marvin has been with the press. After winning his last few fights, he seems to have taken on the role of showman just as much as that of a boxer, perhaps learning from his circus days. Some of the newspapers have started calling him ‘Marvin the Mouth’. He appears to enjoy goading his opponents.”
Ginger stared at Basil incredulously. “Marvin the Mouth?”
Basil hurried to defend the moniker. “Last week, during an interview with the London Sports Gazette, he called Lester a gorilla, saying he was as ugly as an old barn.”
Sniffing, Ginger said, “That seems unwise.”
“Well, if he defeats Lester, he’ll win the title of London Middleweight Champion, which carries a lot of prestige and a generous purse. Quite a feat for a young man by just ‘throwing leather about’, as they say in the boxing vernacular.”
Ginger adjusted her hat. “You mean pawing at each other and jostling about in the ring.”
“You could put it that way,” Basil said with a chuckle. “But if he wins here, he might even go on to fight Britain’s champion at the Royal Albert Hall or something.”
“I just hope he survives,” Ginger said. “Perhaps a good brain rattling is what he needs to come to his senses.”
“I think the fight is about to start.” Basil pointed at a middle-aged man wearing a dinner jacket who entered the ring carrying a megaphone.
“Ladieees and gentlemen,” the ring announcer shouted, and the crowd grew instantly quiet. “On behalf of the London Boxing Commission and the East End of London Sports League, I welcome you to this fine facility tonight. We have an exciting bout for you all, and I hope you are ready for it. Let’s get right to it, shall we? In the challenger’s corner, weighing ten stone nine, a young man who has already made quite a name for himself in the world of both bare-knuckle and Queensberry Rules, from Cheapside, the Marvellous Maaaarviiiin Elliot!”
The applause was muted. There were even a few boos in the crowd.
“It seems that his antics in the press haven’t helped him,” Ginger said.
The sinewy form of Marvin Elliot entered the ring accompanied by a black man carrying a small wooden stool and a leather kit. Marvin was shirtless but wore white shorts, red leather boots, and black boxing gloves. Jeering at the crowd, he bounced in his corner while banging his gloves together.
“He looks good,” Basil remarked. “Trim, fit, alert.”
“Colourful,” Ginger added. “What is meant by Queensberry Rules?”
“It refers to a set of generally accepted rules. For example, the boxers must wear gloves, there’s one minute between rounds, no wrestling . . . things like that. Regulations that make the sport a little less barbaric.”
“I could add to that code,” Ginger offered.
Marvin’s gaze moved to their area in the auditorium, and Ginger waved, but he didn’t seem to notice.
“You shouldn’t wave at him like you��re his mother or something,” Basil scolded mildly.
“Why on earth not?”
“Well, it might put him off to know you’re here. The same goes for me. It’s best he stays focused.”
“Nonsense,” Ginger said. “I should think it would make him feel like someone in this crowd is rooting for him.”
“But you’re not really. I suspect you’d like to see him lose the match if you had your way. Not injured badly but discouraged enough to stop pursuing this line of work. Am I right?”
Ginger lifted a thin shoulder non-committally. “And what about you?”
Basil opened his mouth to disagree, but as Marvin’s opponent emerged, with hard muscles, a heavy brow, and a crooked nose, Basil decided that perhaps Ginger had a point.
“And in the champion’s corner, ladies and gentlemen,” the announcer shouted with great exuberance as cheers rose from the crowd. “From right here in London’s East End, the ‘Locomotive’, ‘the Midnight Train’, the man with dynamite in his fists and thunder in his arms, weighing eleven and a half stone, the one, the only Siiiiiid Lesterrrrr!”
The crowd erupted with such a roar it caused Ginger to put her hands over her ears.
Basil grimaced. It’d been a mistake to bring his wife. This crowd wasn’t on Marvin’s side. He feared carnage.
Get it on Amazon: https://books2read.com/GingerGold-Box...
CHAPTER ONE
Ginger Reed, also known by some as Lady Gold, held up two clip-on earrings to her ears, one a hoop of small turquoise beads and the other a delicate crystal-encrusted teardrop. The beauty of the current short and sassy hairstyles was that they allowed for ear decorations to be easily seen, and Ginger’s red bob was evidence of that. She chose the teardrops, then completed her make-up: smoky shadow reaching her thinly plucked, arched eyebrows; a circle of red parked on each cheekbone; and her lips shining with luxurious pink.
Catching her husband’s warm hazel eyes through the mirror’s reflection, she asked, “What does one wear to a boxing match?” She answered her own question, saying, “Subdued is preferred, I gather.”
“Sports betting attracts commoners, high society, and highbrow alike,” Basil said. “You’ll stand out more no matter what you choose, I’m afraid.”
Ginger selected a burgundy suit with a pleated skirt that fell to mid-calf, a button-down jacket with a matching belt that rested low on the hips, and a matching cloche hat. If it weren’t for Marvin Elliot being in the ring, she wouldn’t be going. She despised these boorish events and thought them rather reminiscent of the barbarism of the Roman circus.
“You’re sure Marvin shall be all right?” Ginger asked as she donned a blouse.
“He’s been fighting since he joined the navy,” Basil said. “He’s young, energetic, and has strong survival instincts.”
Ginger groaned. “He needn’t require survival instincts if he’d behaved.”
Marvin was the cousin of Scout, Ginger and Basil’s adopted son, and had recently been dishonourably discharged from the navy.
Basil glanced over, pausing at his wardrobe where he was selecting his attire. “You don’t have to come, love, if you find it so very disagreeable.”
Ginger glanced about the room, once her childhood chambers, which had been redecorated to suit her maturity and marital status. The heavy, ornately carved wood furnishings included a sitting area with a small table and two gold-and-white striped chairs in front of the windows. The thought of spending the evening lounging in the comfort of her four-poster bed, playing with her nine-month-old daughter Rosa, and then later reading Mrs. Christie’s The Big Four did seem appealing.
However, other wives and sweethearts attended these events, and if Basil continued attending, she wanted to know what the fuss was about. Seeing Marvin again would be a bonus, as she hadn’t seen the young man for a few months after his employment with the circus. Ginger had been relieved when he’d chosen to stay behind after the circus moved on, but she did wish he’d found a less dangerous way to earn a living.
“You’re sure Marvin is up to the task?” Ginger asked. She slipped on the suit jacket, then fastened the buttons and the belt. “It seems like this has all happened so fast.”
“The lad has had a most extraordinary rise in the rankings,” Basil conceded. “A testament to his talent.”
“But isn’t he fighting that Sid Lester fellow? A professional?”
Basil raised a brow. His brown hair, shaved short on the sides, shone with grey, and the top was oiled and neatly combed over to one side. A decade Ginger’s senior and now in his forties, Basil remained attractive even with the deepening wrinkles and greying temples.
“You’ve heard about Sid Lester?” he said.
Ginger nodded. “I’ve been following the fights in the newspapers. He looks like a big man and is much older than Marvin.”
“The photographs are misleading,” Basil said. “They’re both middleweight. Lester’s face has taken more of a beating.” He put on a short summer jacket instead of his usual trench coat, then selected a flat cap, a marked change from his usual trilby. He must’ve noticed Ginger’s questioning look as he explained, “I don’t want to look like a copper. It makes folks uneasy.”
The flat cap made Ginger uneasy, as it wasn’t a look she was used to seeing on Basil. “Are we ready?” she asked.
Basil held out his hand. “Let’s go.”
Ginger loved how they still felt like newlyweds, married only three years after all. They stopped at the nursery to give Rosa a kiss and a hug. Their daughter had pulled herself to a standing position in her crib, holding on to the metal rails with fat little fingers. She bounced excitedly when she spotted her parents, and Ginger’s heart filled as Basil swooped his little daughter into his arms—surprising Abby Green, the nanny—and patted Rosa’s dark hair. Except for her green eyes, which she’d got from Ginger, she looked like her daddy.
After taking her turn to hold Rosa, Ginger handed the child back to the nanny. “Good night, Rosa.”
Leaving the nursery, Ginger and Basil headed down the long corridor to the broad, curving staircase that opened to the entranceway. A large chandelier hung from the high ceiling and sparkled over the polished marble floors. They were halfway down when thirteen-year-old Scout raced around the corner and up the stairs. Boss, Ginger’s little Boston terrier, was on his heels.
“Whoa!” Basil said. “Where’s the fire?”
His cheeks flushed and straw-coloured hair a mess, Scout huffed, “Are you going to Marvin’s fight?”
“We are,” Ginger said.
Scout’s round eyes blinked rapidly. “Can I come? Please! I want to see Marvin fight!”
Ginger shot Basil a sideways glance. She’d hoped they would’ve been able to leave before Scout returned from his riding lesson.
“Not this time,” Ginger said. “We’re about to leave, and we’ll be late.”
“I’m ready!” Scout insisted.
“Son,” Basil said, “you smell like a horse. And you’re too young to get in.”
Ginger wasn’t sure if this was true, though she hoped there would be an age limit to entry. Regardless, she was ready to impose one on her son.
Scout’s shoulders, thin yet widening with pubescence, drooped. “I hate being so young!”
“Enjoy your youth whilst you can,” Ginger said. “Now, go upstairs and bathe before the whole house smells like a stable.”
Scout trudged upstairs in reluctant defeat. Even so, he’d become much more amiable since the debacle at the circus. Ginger had to acknowledge that their son, having spent ten years struggling on the streets of London, would never fully conform to the new world of which he was now part. His disastrous experience at Kingswell Academy had proven that he’d never fit in with the children of the elite.
In the back garden, Basil reversed his forest-green 1922 Austin out of the garage, then jumped out to open the passenger door for Ginger. Once they were both seated inside, Basil turned to her and said, “If it gets too distasteful for you, just say the word, and we’ll leave.”
Ginger patted Basil’s arm with appreciation. “I’ll do my best to stomach it.”
“I’ll wager you’ve never been to a venue quite like this before,” Basil said as he and Ginger headed to the second-tier section of the Bethnal Green Boxing Club in the East End. Their hard wooden seats sat on a balcony that surrounded a boxing ring one floor below, surrounded by collapsible seats arranged in rows almost right up the side of the ring.
“No, I certainly haven’t,” Ginger said, checking their ticket stubs.
“Yes, this is the right spot, my dear. I didn’t think you wanted to be in the lower stall section. I think it might be rather close to the kind of action planned for tonight.” He pointed down at the scene below them. “It’s not exactly the Royal Ballet or the London Symphony Orchestra.”
“Quite.” Ginger scanned the lower-floor seats.
Basil felt concerned that his wife would want to leave after the first round. He hoped that by sitting higher up and away from the ring, there at least would be little danger of spit or sweat from the boxers hitting them. That, he thought ruefully, would guarantee a quick exit.
“That’s where the judges and the press gallery sit.” Basil pointed to some empty seats beside the ring. A long wooden table with a large golden boxing bell was placed in the middle.
“The ring official just hits the bell with his palm at the beginning and end of every round,” Basil remarked.
“No doubt a lot of training is required for that job,” Ginger said sarcastically.
“Well, at least one would have to keep one’s eye on the clock.”
“I might be doing the same,” Ginger said under her breath.
“I heard that.” Basil smiled and nudged her with his shoulder. “I hate to inform you, but these fights have the potential to go a full ten rounds.”
“What fun.”
Basil chuckled. “I’ll bet you your next fancy hat you’ll be surprised at how the time goes.”
“I don’t doubt that,” Ginger said, “but for your information, my hats aren’t fancy. They’re elegant and fashionable. You don’t spot a Reboux original from Paris and call it fancy.”
“Well, no, I wouldn’t, of course,” Basil said with a hint of tease in his voice. “No . . . the boys down at the Yard would call it fancy, but certainly not me.” He adjusted his flat cap. “Inspector Sanders, for example, is a good man but certainly not in tune with the latest fashions like I am.”
That earned him a raised eyebrow and a wry smile from Ginger.
Quiet for a moment, Basil then said, “The Bethnal Green Boxing Club Hall has been around since around 1884.” Thinking that perhaps a little history would make Ginger more comfortable with her surroundings, he went on. “It seats around two hundred people at its fullest, which I think we might see tonight.”
He waved his arm expansively around the large room. The crowd in the packed hall comprised mostly of men, had a surprising number of women as well. He held up a printed brochure. “This club has produced a lot of champion boxers, including Sid Lester.”
“May I?” Ginger reached for the brochure.
“He’s a formidable pugilist, all right.” Basil nodded at an image of a shirtless, barrel-chested man with his bare fists held up in front of him. Sid Lester’s nose was unnaturally crooked, and his eyes looked like dark, soulless pools as he glared at the camera. “They nicknamed him ‘The Midnight Train’ because he comes up with the goods every night right on time,” Basil said. “Even the press is afraid to interview him. They say he’s like an enraged bull in the ring.” Basil blew air out of his cheeks. “He’s been London’s champion middleweight boxer for almost eight years running now. His hands are larger than what would seem suitable for his size, and his punches seem to go right through his opponents. In fact, his gloves are custom-made to make room for his big fists. They are like steam shovels.”
Ginger’s hand went to her throat. “And this is the fellow Marvin is fighting tonight?” She stabbed the photograph of Marvin with a long fingernail. “He looks . . . well, not up to the task.”
Basil placed a reassuring palm on Ginger’s arm. “From what I’ve been told,” he started, “Marvin is exceptionally fast in the ring.”
“He shall have to be!” Ginger stared at the two men in the brochure with a deep concern written all over her face.
“I’ll tell you one thing,” Basil continued. “He must be very talented to have risen in the ranks this fast to get a shot at Sid Lester. Perhaps in part due to how outspoken Marvin has been with the press. After winning his last few fights, he seems to have taken on the role of showman just as much as that of a boxer, perhaps learning from his circus days. Some of the newspapers have started calling him ‘Marvin the Mouth’. He appears to enjoy goading his opponents.”
Ginger stared at Basil incredulously. “Marvin the Mouth?”
Basil hurried to defend the moniker. “Last week, during an interview with the London Sports Gazette, he called Lester a gorilla, saying he was as ugly as an old barn.”
Sniffing, Ginger said, “That seems unwise.”
“Well, if he defeats Lester, he’ll win the title of London Middleweight Champion, which carries a lot of prestige and a generous purse. Quite a feat for a young man by just ‘throwing leather about’, as they say in the boxing vernacular.”
Ginger adjusted her hat. “You mean pawing at each other and jostling about in the ring.”
“You could put it that way,” Basil said with a chuckle. “But if he wins here, he might even go on to fight Britain’s champion at the Royal Albert Hall or something.”
“I just hope he survives,” Ginger said. “Perhaps a good brain rattling is what he needs to come to his senses.”
“I think the fight is about to start.” Basil pointed at a middle-aged man wearing a dinner jacket who entered the ring carrying a megaphone.
“Ladieees and gentlemen,” the ring announcer shouted, and the crowd grew instantly quiet. “On behalf of the London Boxing Commission and the East End of London Sports League, I welcome you to this fine facility tonight. We have an exciting bout for you all, and I hope you are ready for it. Let’s get right to it, shall we? In the challenger’s corner, weighing ten stone nine, a young man who has already made quite a name for himself in the world of both bare-knuckle and Queensberry Rules, from Cheapside, the Marvellous Maaaarviiiin Elliot!”
The applause was muted. There were even a few boos in the crowd.
“It seems that his antics in the press haven’t helped him,” Ginger said.
The sinewy form of Marvin Elliot entered the ring accompanied by a black man carrying a small wooden stool and a leather kit. Marvin was shirtless but wore white shorts, red leather boots, and black boxing gloves. Jeering at the crowd, he bounced in his corner while banging his gloves together.
“He looks good,” Basil remarked. “Trim, fit, alert.”
“Colourful,” Ginger added. “What is meant by Queensberry Rules?”
“It refers to a set of generally accepted rules. For example, the boxers must wear gloves, there’s one minute between rounds, no wrestling . . . things like that. Regulations that make the sport a little less barbaric.”
“I could add to that code,” Ginger offered.
Marvin’s gaze moved to their area in the auditorium, and Ginger waved, but he didn’t seem to notice.
“You shouldn’t wave at him like you��re his mother or something,” Basil scolded mildly.
“Why on earth not?”
“Well, it might put him off to know you’re here. The same goes for me. It’s best he stays focused.”
“Nonsense,” Ginger said. “I should think it would make him feel like someone in this crowd is rooting for him.”
“But you’re not really. I suspect you’d like to see him lose the match if you had your way. Not injured badly but discouraged enough to stop pursuing this line of work. Am I right?”
Ginger lifted a thin shoulder non-committally. “And what about you?”
Basil opened his mouth to disagree, but as Marvin’s opponent emerged, with hard muscles, a heavy brow, and a crooked nose, Basil decided that perhaps Ginger had a point.
“And in the champion’s corner, ladies and gentlemen,” the announcer shouted with great exuberance as cheers rose from the crowd. “From right here in London’s East End, the ‘Locomotive’, ‘the Midnight Train’, the man with dynamite in his fists and thunder in his arms, weighing eleven and a half stone, the one, the only Siiiiiid Lesterrrrr!”
The crowd erupted with such a roar it caused Ginger to put her hands over her ears.
Basil grimaced. It’d been a mistake to bring his wife. This crowd wasn’t on Marvin’s side. He feared carnage.
July 30, 2022
The Griffin
A boxing club would not be a place that you would normally find Ginger Reed the wife of constable Reed. She decided to attend a boxing event because her adopted son Scout's cousin Marvin was participating in the event.
Little did Ginger know she would soon be in the middle of a murder investigation concerning one of the boxing champions working at the boxing club. She would be working beside her husband to help solve the crime.
When it became a threat to her family because of an old enemy of her husband Basil named the Griffin it became personal. Were drugs involved and what relationship did the Griffin have with gang activity. How much danger was Ginger and her family in.
Another wonderful cozy mystery, it was exciting and it had some wonderful fashion statements throughout the book which makes Lee Strauss's books so interesting to read. I love to read about how women dressed and looked during this past historical period.
Thanks to Lee Strauss for another great mystery and for giving me the chance to read and review it. I would recommend this book.
A boxing club would not be a place that you would normally find Ginger Reed the wife of constable Reed. She decided to attend a boxing event because her adopted son Scout's cousin Marvin was participating in the event.
Little did Ginger know she would soon be in the middle of a murder investigation concerning one of the boxing champions working at the boxing club. She would be working beside her husband to help solve the crime.
When it became a threat to her family because of an old enemy of her husband Basil named the Griffin it became personal. Were drugs involved and what relationship did the Griffin have with gang activity. How much danger was Ginger and her family in.
Another wonderful cozy mystery, it was exciting and it had some wonderful fashion statements throughout the book which makes Lee Strauss's books so interesting to read. I love to read about how women dressed and looked during this past historical period.
Thanks to Lee Strauss for another great mystery and for giving me the chance to read and review it. I would recommend this book.
February 20, 2023
Scout's cousin Marvin has taken up boxing and according to Basil, Marvin is quite good. That doesn't stop Ginger from worrying. When a trash-talking Marvin takes on the veteran, Sid Lester, and wins, everyone is stunned. That wasn't supposed to happen. Marvin feels cheated that Sid gave up the fight faking a shoulder injury. Marvin thinks he can take on Sid fair and square. Basil hopes Marvin has good counsel to help him manage his earnings but it appears otherwise when Ginger observes Martin in a state she doesn't approve of. Then Sid Lester turns up dead and once again, Marvin becomes a suspect. Basil doesn't actually believe Marvin is the murderer. He thinks there's something larger going on and afraid Marvin might be connected to it. When a strange man approaches Ginger after the fight, she's concerned when he appears to know who he is. Basil identifies the man as Mortimer Sharp, his old nemesis fresh out of jail and threatening to harm the Reed family. Terrified, Ginger packs the family off to Paris for a getaway. Can Basil handle this one alone?
This is my least favorite entry in the series. It starts off slow and boring with lengthy commentary on boxing and gets darker and darker as the story goes along. There's a high body count, a terrifying villain, gangsters and drugs. Yes I know... welcome to the 1920s. The plot was complicated and confusing. I lost track of who was who and didn't care. They know some of who and why pretty early on but they have to prove it. Learning about the history of sci-fi movies was fun and I also liked meeting one of Ginger's colleagues from the war and getting another hint of what she was up to. I am eager to read that journal entry.
Ginger and Basil investigate together for the most part but she does have a side investigation related to the main one. I like Basil. He's a good detective, keeps calm and understands Marvin better than Ginger does. I do not like Ginger in this book. Her mind is all over the place and she can't seem to focus on one thing. The cozy centers around her worrying about motherhood vs. career and around Felicia's big news. Ginger annoyed me so much with her patronizing attitude towards Felicia.
Marvin is different in this book too. He comes across as more confident but his confidence turns to brashness. He's not very smart and doesn't have a good head on his shoulders. I wish he'd turn to Basil for help but he is afraid of Basil because Basil is a copper and Martin doesn't have a good relationship with coppers. Martin is certainly mixed up in illegal activity whether knowingly or unknowingly. I suspected as much when Ginger spied him on the docks and he ran away. Poor Scout is going to have a tough time because he worships his cousin but I think Scout has absorbed enough upper class values that he won't approve of Martin's life choices.
Sid Lester was an aging ex-champion. He was past his prime and expected to coast on by. He was probably expected the match to be rigged in his favor. It should have been if Martin hadn't come along. Sid was arrogant, egotistical and uncaring. He was a thug and nothing more. Still I'm sure his murder is a blow to the boxing community and a sad event for many fans who didn't know the real Sid Lester. It doesn't sound like anyone who knew him well mourns his death. Thomas Friar, owner of the boxing club, is a smooth customer. He's either hapless or a good guy who knows how to keep his hands clean. Unless he's an accomplished liar. It's unclear. I don't think he's all that innocent and probably is guilty of at least fixing matches if nothing more. He had good motive to kill Sid Lester. Lester was becoming a liability and bad for the club. His alibi is not air tight but did he own the murder weapon?
Mortimer Sharp is a terrifying villain. He's clever, cunning and knows how to keep his own hands clean. He wants revenge on Basil for putting him behind bars but it sounds like Sharp was running a gang even from prison! Now he's after the extended Reed family just for revenge. That is one twisted individual.
Jimmy Willis, the corner trainer for Sid Lester, is new on the job. He seems dedicated to the sport and knows what he's doing. He mentions the previous trainer died of a heart attack. Is this true or was it murder? Willis is also Sid Lester's manager and only makes money if his man wins. Did he off Sid because Sid was no longer in his prime? Did he off Sid because he lost a lot of money? Colin Venebles, the water boy, is also new on the job. He doesn't look like a boxer but he seems to know a lot about the sport. He's kind of weak and nerdy to me but he seems more formidable to others and rubs them the wrong way. Colin has a brother, Richard, who is in a wheelchair. Life has dealt Richard some hard knocks. He's in a wheelchair and has every reason to want Sid Lester out of the picture. I don't think he'd resort to murder but he may have just snapped.
Wiley Shaftoe, the only Black person in the series, is Martin's corner coach. He's crafty and doesn't want to share what he knows. Billy Kenmore is Sharp's henchman. He's the one with blood on his hands. He doesn't seem too smart but he's smart enough not to reveal his part in Sid Lester's murder - or anything else, even under duress.
Magna Jones was once Ginger's colleague in the war. She's at loose ends and wants a job with Ginger's detective agency. This woman has a lot of energy and is very efficient. She seems smart and capable, a strong woman but can she be trusted? Nigel Fletcher is the worst police officer ever. He should be sacked for what he does but as Basil notes, Scotland Yard can't find and weed out every corrupt officer.
This book marks the return of Haley Higgins and there wasn't enough of her. I'm excited to read the next one just for her. I like her much more than Ginger.
This is my least favorite entry in the series. It starts off slow and boring with lengthy commentary on boxing and gets darker and darker as the story goes along. There's a high body count, a terrifying villain, gangsters and drugs. Yes I know... welcome to the 1920s. The plot was complicated and confusing. I lost track of who was who and didn't care. They know some of who and why pretty early on but they have to prove it. Learning about the history of sci-fi movies was fun and I also liked meeting one of Ginger's colleagues from the war and getting another hint of what she was up to. I am eager to read that journal entry.
Ginger and Basil investigate together for the most part but she does have a side investigation related to the main one. I like Basil. He's a good detective, keeps calm and understands Marvin better than Ginger does. I do not like Ginger in this book. Her mind is all over the place and she can't seem to focus on one thing. The cozy centers around her worrying about motherhood vs. career and around Felicia's big news. Ginger annoyed me so much with her patronizing attitude towards Felicia.
Marvin is different in this book too. He comes across as more confident but his confidence turns to brashness. He's not very smart and doesn't have a good head on his shoulders. I wish he'd turn to Basil for help but he is afraid of Basil because Basil is a copper and Martin doesn't have a good relationship with coppers. Martin is certainly mixed up in illegal activity whether knowingly or unknowingly. I suspected as much when Ginger spied him on the docks and he ran away. Poor Scout is going to have a tough time because he worships his cousin but I think Scout has absorbed enough upper class values that he won't approve of Martin's life choices.
Sid Lester was an aging ex-champion. He was past his prime and expected to coast on by. He was probably expected the match to be rigged in his favor. It should have been if Martin hadn't come along. Sid was arrogant, egotistical and uncaring. He was a thug and nothing more. Still I'm sure his murder is a blow to the boxing community and a sad event for many fans who didn't know the real Sid Lester. It doesn't sound like anyone who knew him well mourns his death. Thomas Friar, owner of the boxing club, is a smooth customer. He's either hapless or a good guy who knows how to keep his hands clean. Unless he's an accomplished liar. It's unclear. I don't think he's all that innocent and probably is guilty of at least fixing matches if nothing more. He had good motive to kill Sid Lester. Lester was becoming a liability and bad for the club. His alibi is not air tight but did he own the murder weapon?
Mortimer Sharp is a terrifying villain. He's clever, cunning and knows how to keep his own hands clean. He wants revenge on Basil for putting him behind bars but it sounds like Sharp was running a gang even from prison! Now he's after the extended Reed family just for revenge. That is one twisted individual.
Jimmy Willis, the corner trainer for Sid Lester, is new on the job. He seems dedicated to the sport and knows what he's doing. He mentions the previous trainer died of a heart attack. Is this true or was it murder? Willis is also Sid Lester's manager and only makes money if his man wins. Did he off Sid because Sid was no longer in his prime? Did he off Sid because he lost a lot of money? Colin Venebles, the water boy, is also new on the job. He doesn't look like a boxer but he seems to know a lot about the sport. He's kind of weak and nerdy to me but he seems more formidable to others and rubs them the wrong way. Colin has a brother, Richard, who is in a wheelchair. Life has dealt Richard some hard knocks. He's in a wheelchair and has every reason to want Sid Lester out of the picture. I don't think he'd resort to murder but he may have just snapped.
Wiley Shaftoe, the only Black person in the series, is Martin's corner coach. He's crafty and doesn't want to share what he knows. Billy Kenmore is Sharp's henchman. He's the one with blood on his hands. He doesn't seem too smart but he's smart enough not to reveal his part in Sid Lester's murder - or anything else, even under duress.
Magna Jones was once Ginger's colleague in the war. She's at loose ends and wants a job with Ginger's detective agency. This woman has a lot of energy and is very efficient. She seems smart and capable, a strong woman but can she be trusted? Nigel Fletcher is the worst police officer ever. He should be sacked for what he does but as Basil notes, Scotland Yard can't find and weed out every corrupt officer.
This book marks the return of Haley Higgins and there wasn't enough of her. I'm excited to read the next one just for her. I like her much more than Ginger.
August 7, 2022
This is another wonderful entry in the Ginger Gold Series. This one features the boxing world and how drugs are infiltrating that world. Ginger and Basil Reed’s son Scout’s cousin Marvin Elliot has entered that world. In addition, Basil’s sworn enemy Mortimer Sharp is out of prison and is aiming for revenge.
When the fighter Marvin defeats is murdered, there are plenty of suspects. It’s up to Basil with help from Ginger to solve the case before Marvin Sharp can find a way to exact his revenge on their family.
This story keeps the reader guessing until the exciting and unexpected end.
Most of the wonderful characters in this series are involved but Ginger, Basil, Marvin, Scout and Felicia are featured.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and eagerly look forward to the next installment, which is sure to be entertaining.
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this book.
When the fighter Marvin defeats is murdered, there are plenty of suspects. It’s up to Basil with help from Ginger to solve the case before Marvin Sharp can find a way to exact his revenge on their family.
This story keeps the reader guessing until the exciting and unexpected end.
Most of the wonderful characters in this series are involved but Ginger, Basil, Marvin, Scout and Felicia are featured.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and eagerly look forward to the next installment, which is sure to be entertaining.
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy of this book.
January 8, 2024
Interesting landmarks of London pre-WW2 blitz. Also, suffragettes campaigning for women's voting rights. An intriguing mystery well-grounded in setting and time period.
July 10, 2022
I was fortunate to get an ARC of this book and thoroughly enjoyed it!
Lee Strauss continues to entertain with her Ginger Gold mystery series. This time the mystery is set at a boxing club, opening up a fascinating new environment to the reader as Strauss is so skilled at doing.
One particular sequence, in which a boxing match is described blow for blow, is done with such skill and descriptive flair that the entire scene is easy to picture in the reader's mind. She definitely brings the boxing match to life!
The murder mystery, featuring the appearance of an old and threatening nemesis of Basil's, is complex and intriguing. Add in elements of Ginger's past continuing to come to light, and the book moves along quickly and is difficult to put down.
As always, I look forward to reading the next installment!
Lee Strauss continues to entertain with her Ginger Gold mystery series. This time the mystery is set at a boxing club, opening up a fascinating new environment to the reader as Strauss is so skilled at doing.
One particular sequence, in which a boxing match is described blow for blow, is done with such skill and descriptive flair that the entire scene is easy to picture in the reader's mind. She definitely brings the boxing match to life!
The murder mystery, featuring the appearance of an old and threatening nemesis of Basil's, is complex and intriguing. Add in elements of Ginger's past continuing to come to light, and the book moves along quickly and is difficult to put down.
As always, I look forward to reading the next installment!
July 28, 2022
Another Incredible Ginger Gold Murder Mystery that has so many twists and turns that Ginger and Basil have to solve before their family is put in danger. What a page turner! Ginger is going with Basil to a boxing match with the champion, Sid Lester against Marvin, Scouts cousin. Ordinarily, Ginger wouldn't be caught dead in a boxing club watching a match, but since Marvin is Scout's cousin it's like going to support family. When the champion throws in the towel and Marvin becomes the middleweight champion, all things bad start to happen. The first thing that happens that absolutely scares Ginger and puts her on alert is that Basil's nemesis, Mortimer Sharp, also known as The Griffin, is out of jail. While Basil is congratulating Marvin in the locker room, Sharp sees Ginger and comes over to talk to her using innuendo which scared her even more and when Basil returned and she told him, he was not only angry but concerned for his whole family. When Sid Lester is found dead outside of the boxing club, Basil is set to investigate with Ginger. Finding the seedy side of boxing with manipulations, drugs and boxer manipulation, Marvin is in trouble because he won't agree to be used and manipulated. We have another attempted murder and another murder of a manager, Basil and Ginger have their hands full - so much so that Basil wants his entire family out of the country to get away from The Griffin who he is sure he and his henchmen are involved. Ginger agrees, and arranges for everyone, including a pregnant Felicia to go to a villa in France. Basil wants Ginger to go too, but she doesn't and she and Basil have their hands full. With lots of secrets, twists and turns, you are taken on a major roller coaster ride until the surprise ending. But will The Griffin get away? Is he the murderer? This is a fast paced must read and I can't wait to read more Ginger Gold. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
August 6, 2022
Very interesting!
This story starts out at a boxing club where Ginger and Basil (Ginger with great reluctance) are attending a highly anticipated boxing match between the current champion and Scout's cousin, Marvin. Ginger doesn't like the fact that Marvin is now a boxer because he could really get hurt. Ginger finds that getting punched by a bigger opponent is not the biggest worry when she finds out that the boxing club is a front for drugs and the gang lord who's selling the drugs is Basil's old nemesis, the Griffin, who lets Basil and Ginger know that he can come after them and the people they love any time he chooses and they can't stop him. Now people from the boxing club are being murdered. It's up to Ginger and Basil to prove that the Griffin isn't as powerful as he thinks he is. The information about drug use in Great Britain after WWI, as well as the rest of the world, was interesting. It's true that British, American, and German troops, as well as others, were given cocaine, heroin, amphetamines and methamphetamine as performance enhancers. It wasn't until after the war was over that it was realized that these were highly addictive drugs and there were a whole lot of service members that came home with more than war-time souvenirs. As usual, I enjoyed the latest installment in Ginger Gold's life. I've been reading about Ginger and her family since she first boarded the Rosa and I hope to keep reading about her for a long, long time to come.
This story starts out at a boxing club where Ginger and Basil (Ginger with great reluctance) are attending a highly anticipated boxing match between the current champion and Scout's cousin, Marvin. Ginger doesn't like the fact that Marvin is now a boxer because he could really get hurt. Ginger finds that getting punched by a bigger opponent is not the biggest worry when she finds out that the boxing club is a front for drugs and the gang lord who's selling the drugs is Basil's old nemesis, the Griffin, who lets Basil and Ginger know that he can come after them and the people they love any time he chooses and they can't stop him. Now people from the boxing club are being murdered. It's up to Ginger and Basil to prove that the Griffin isn't as powerful as he thinks he is. The information about drug use in Great Britain after WWI, as well as the rest of the world, was interesting. It's true that British, American, and German troops, as well as others, were given cocaine, heroin, amphetamines and methamphetamine as performance enhancers. It wasn't until after the war was over that it was realized that these were highly addictive drugs and there were a whole lot of service members that came home with more than war-time souvenirs. As usual, I enjoyed the latest installment in Ginger Gold's life. I've been reading about Ginger and her family since she first boarded the Rosa and I hope to keep reading about her for a long, long time to come.
July 9, 2023
A really amateurish mystery written as if for a YA audience.
The protagonist, Lady Gold, works in collaboration with her Scotland Yard Chief Detective second husband, and he carries much of the investigative load. There are a bunch of standard fare gangsters, and the mastermind is so obvious that I actually believed that he must be a false suspect...but, nope, he's the guy. Similarly, a surprise from Lady Gold's World War freedom fighting days in France shows up and is hired on as a detective-assistant. But she mainly cools her heels in the office shuffling papers and making coffee, so much so that I figured she must be involved with the gang. But again, nope, she's just in the book to miraculously find out some critical information (we never follow her machinations), and then she fades quickly out of the book.
A pet peeve of mine is that the author spends a lot of ink describing Lady Gold's fashionable outfits. Yawn...
Normally, all these flaws would still merit a book 2 stars. I can live with a poor plot and cardboard characters if the book is well-written. But what sinks this one to the ocean's depths is the infantile prose. There's no panache to her language. One wonders how her publisher found an audience for her previous twenty-two books.
The protagonist, Lady Gold, works in collaboration with her Scotland Yard Chief Detective second husband, and he carries much of the investigative load. There are a bunch of standard fare gangsters, and the mastermind is so obvious that I actually believed that he must be a false suspect...but, nope, he's the guy. Similarly, a surprise from Lady Gold's World War freedom fighting days in France shows up and is hired on as a detective-assistant. But she mainly cools her heels in the office shuffling papers and making coffee, so much so that I figured she must be involved with the gang. But again, nope, she's just in the book to miraculously find out some critical information (we never follow her machinations), and then she fades quickly out of the book.
A pet peeve of mine is that the author spends a lot of ink describing Lady Gold's fashionable outfits. Yawn...
Normally, all these flaws would still merit a book 2 stars. I can live with a poor plot and cardboard characters if the book is well-written. But what sinks this one to the ocean's depths is the infantile prose. There's no panache to her language. One wonders how her publisher found an audience for her previous twenty-two books.
September 27, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up for this installment in the Ginger Gold series.
This one centers around Scout's cousin Marvin, who's now boxing. Marvin has a bout with Sid Lester, a champion fighter and surprisingly comes out the winner but then he's a suspect when Sid turns up dead.
This one isn't a favorite of mine in the series. It had a lot of characters in the boxing world which I found a bit confusing as people kept turning up dead. I did enjoy the character of Mortimer Sharp as he's a frightening villain as he isn't one to do his dirty work so Scotland Yard can't tie him to the crimes. His threat to Basil and his family is serious enough that Ginger and the rest of the family make plans to leave England for a bit.
I did enjoy seeing Haley Higgins, Ginger's American friend, again but it wasn't enough for me! I wanted more Haley and Ginger time. I also enjoyed getting some more hints about what Ginger was up to during the war but don't trust the woman from that time that has suddenly reappeared in Ginger's life.
I listened to the audiobook via the Hoopla app thru my library.
This one centers around Scout's cousin Marvin, who's now boxing. Marvin has a bout with Sid Lester, a champion fighter and surprisingly comes out the winner but then he's a suspect when Sid turns up dead.
This one isn't a favorite of mine in the series. It had a lot of characters in the boxing world which I found a bit confusing as people kept turning up dead. I did enjoy the character of Mortimer Sharp as he's a frightening villain as he isn't one to do his dirty work so Scotland Yard can't tie him to the crimes. His threat to Basil and his family is serious enough that Ginger and the rest of the family make plans to leave England for a bit.
I did enjoy seeing Haley Higgins, Ginger's American friend, again but it wasn't enough for me! I wanted more Haley and Ginger time. I also enjoyed getting some more hints about what Ginger was up to during the war but don't trust the woman from that time that has suddenly reappeared in Ginger's life.
I listened to the audiobook via the Hoopla app thru my library.
January 16, 2023
Fondly familiar
If you're a fan it's four stars. I wanted to give 3.5*, but we can't. I've read all the previous books the last one about a year ago. I decided to revisit. That experience was akin to meeting with friends you hadn't seen in a while. Familiar, enjoyable, warmly reminiscing about old times. Nothing new just comfy like a favorite old robe. The story itself is what I've come to expect. Ginger and Basil are embroiled in a case involving their arch nemesis The Griffin. Murders, attempted murders, threats, drugs, gangs, family and friends in danger, whew ! The one new twist is the introduction of the character Magna. Ginger's former ally from the Great War and currently her new assistant at Lady Gold's detective agency. What is her story and why did she so fortuitously appear ? I for one am looking forward to finding out!
If you're a fan it's four stars. I wanted to give 3.5*, but we can't. I've read all the previous books the last one about a year ago. I decided to revisit. That experience was akin to meeting with friends you hadn't seen in a while. Familiar, enjoyable, warmly reminiscing about old times. Nothing new just comfy like a favorite old robe. The story itself is what I've come to expect. Ginger and Basil are embroiled in a case involving their arch nemesis The Griffin. Murders, attempted murders, threats, drugs, gangs, family and friends in danger, whew ! The one new twist is the introduction of the character Magna. Ginger's former ally from the Great War and currently her new assistant at Lady Gold's detective agency. What is her story and why did she so fortuitously appear ? I for one am looking forward to finding out!
July 26, 2022
Why should a book about boxing and the assorted problems surrounding that industry particularly in the early 1900s, including murder and attempted murder of one of Ginger’s family be so absorbing? Lee Strauss, in her on-going Ginger Gold Mystery series manages to tell the story of boxing clubs and the corruption within while enticing the reader to learn more about this subject. What’s even better, we are able to connect to so much of the Gold/Reed family saga. I particularly enjoy reading about the fashion and style that is so reminiscent of the 1920s. It’s a great read of family devotion and the relationship of Ginger and Basil. I received an advance review copy of this e-book and this is my honest review,
August 2, 2022
Another excellent addition to this series. The story was well written and interesting. There are multiple victims and the mystery behind the murders and shootings is intricately plotted. The characters are an interesting mix of high society and lower income groups with the differences made noticeable by the dialogue.
There were several things were different in this book. There was no mention of the Reverend and his wife, Ginger didn’t visit the morgue, and she spent no time at her dress shop. This in no way detracted from the story but it was a divergence from previous stories in the series.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
There were several things were different in this book. There was no mention of the Reverend and his wife, Ginger didn’t visit the morgue, and she spent no time at her dress shop. This in no way detracted from the story but it was a divergence from previous stories in the series.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
July 21, 2022
The Gang's All Here!
What a great book, bringing together so many of the characters we have grown to love, but have wondered about. Scout's cousin Marvin takes center stage as the seedy and sometimes drugs invested world of boxing is brought into play. Seems almost like a very pleasant old home week.
However, I cannot say what the reason is, but there seemed more of a sense of urgency in this book. I am talking tummy turns, and having to hold myself back from skipping to the final chapter. A really great read!
What a great book, bringing together so many of the characters we have grown to love, but have wondered about. Scout's cousin Marvin takes center stage as the seedy and sometimes drugs invested world of boxing is brought into play. Seems almost like a very pleasant old home week.
However, I cannot say what the reason is, but there seemed more of a sense of urgency in this book. I am talking tummy turns, and having to hold myself back from skipping to the final chapter. A really great read!
July 24, 2022
Lee Strauss delivers a one, two punch in is this heart pounding addition to the Lady Gold series. Ginger attends a boxing match with Basil since Marvin (their adoptive son Scout's cousin) is in the ring against a fierce champion. When a murder occurs they soon find themselves investigating the seedier side of society taking them into the world of sports betting, gangs and drugs. If that wasn't enough to keep you on the edge of your seat, an old nemesis returns putting Ginger's family at risk. The attention to details is superb creating a story of intrigue and danger. I am all ready looking forward to the next book as we are left with a surprise reunion.
July 28, 2022
Instead of Feathers and Flair we have boxing gloves in this new Ginger Gold mystery. Another fun new episode in the life of Ginger, Basil and their family. We are taken to the seedy underground of the boxing community in London. There we find The Gryffin is back and out for revenge on Basil Reed. I love how Lee Strauss counterbalances familiar and new characters. You will love the suspenseful surprise ending where we see the return of a beloved character. Make sure to read this exciting new addition to your Ginger Gold library!
August 11, 2022
One of the best Ginger Gold books of the series! It was really nice to read about boxing back then but also going indepth with some of the characters - and seeing old characters return! It has been a really nice arc with the last three books.
After finishing this book I had to read the previous two again and what caught me most was the development of the characters. You definitely don't want to miss this book.
After finishing this book I had to read the previous two again and what caught me most was the development of the characters. You definitely don't want to miss this book.
August 11, 2022
I wasn’t sure I would be able to get into a book that centered around a murder at a boxing club, but like Ginger attending the fight, I was able to do so. There were so many different nuances in this story that it seemed there were several possible suspects.
I enjoy reading Lee Status’s’ books featuring the characters Ginger Gold and her husband Basil. They truly make an interesting team that always find the murderer.
I enjoy reading Lee Status’s’ books featuring the characters Ginger Gold and her husband Basil. They truly make an interesting team that always find the murderer.
February 23, 2023
Another great book.
Ginger and Basil face a foe that puts fear into mens hearts with just the mention of his name. When Marvin, Scout's cousin, becomes a boxer little did Ginger know that this profession would turn into murder case of huge proportion. Ginger and Basil swift through numerous suspects and clues to find the culprit. Wonderful writing and character development make this story an enjoyable experience.
Ginger and Basil face a foe that puts fear into mens hearts with just the mention of his name. When Marvin, Scout's cousin, becomes a boxer little did Ginger know that this profession would turn into murder case of huge proportion. Ginger and Basil swift through numerous suspects and clues to find the culprit. Wonderful writing and character development make this story an enjoyable experience.
July 22, 2022
With my heart beating from the very first chapter I enjoyed every moment of reading this.
There are ups and down, twists, turns and lots of wonderings about how Lee Strauss will or won’t have Basil and Ginger catch the bad guys. Will the family be safe? Will they finally get to catch their breath and relax? You have to read to find out.
There are ups and down, twists, turns and lots of wonderings about how Lee Strauss will or won’t have Basil and Ginger catch the bad guys. Will the family be safe? Will they finally get to catch their breath and relax? You have to read to find out.
July 29, 2022
Murder and boxing
This book catches us up with Scott's cousin Marvin. Marvin has been making his way as a boxer and was finally in a championship fight. The result of the fight brought in a chain of events that had Basil and Ginger busy. I won't spoil the book but it is a lovely and engaging read.
This book catches us up with Scott's cousin Marvin. Marvin has been making his way as a boxer and was finally in a championship fight. The result of the fight brought in a chain of events that had Basil and Ginger busy. I won't spoil the book but it is a lovely and engaging read.
September 18, 2022
Another good story....
Ginger Gold is at it again, even though in lesser capacity than usual.
But if at some point in your you've met, you can always count on her help....
Interesting introduction of the underbelly of late '20s London with cocaine being the stimulant of choice in the boxing world.
And I'm so glad Miss Higgins is coming into the story next.
Ginger Gold is at it again, even though in lesser capacity than usual.
But if at some point in your you've met, you can always count on her help....
Interesting introduction of the underbelly of late '20s London with cocaine being the stimulant of choice in the boxing world.
And I'm so glad Miss Higgins is coming into the story next.
October 21, 2022
Good representation of common issues
This book had some great real-life criminal elements to it-drugs, corruption, and all that comes with it. I think it could have had more action added by having a threat hit closer to home and showcasing Magda to keep the family safe, with a scene leaving Basil as befuddled with her abilities as Ginger’s, but maybe that’s down the line.
This book had some great real-life criminal elements to it-drugs, corruption, and all that comes with it. I think it could have had more action added by having a threat hit closer to home and showcasing Magda to keep the family safe, with a scene leaving Basil as befuddled with her abilities as Ginger’s, but maybe that’s down the line.
August 30, 2025
This one is Marvin's story, how he end up loosing his ability to fight, to earn his own living. I am thinking he probably has become an invalid now and need help to move around.
At least Marvin knows what is good for Scout, wants Scout to go to school, and gain the education he should have. He didn't try put bad ideas into Scout and ask Scout to run away.
At least Marvin knows what is good for Scout, wants Scout to go to school, and gain the education he should have. He didn't try put bad ideas into Scout and ask Scout to run away.
July 27, 2022
Boxing into murder
As always an enjoyable read. Filled with interesting characters and lots of twists and turns. Love the"talk " about fashion and even the cars. Now on to France in December!😍
As always an enjoyable read. Filled with interesting characters and lots of twists and turns. Love the"talk " about fashion and even the cars. Now on to France in December!😍
July 28, 2022
Marvin is young and moves around easily, doesn’t he??? Sid Lester, on the other hand, was s-l-o-w, wasn’t he??? So, who killed Sid??? I now know more about boxing and drugs than I ever wanted to know. However, I enjoyed the story and recommend the book.
Read
July 30, 2022Good read.
I enjoyed it even though the boxing scene is not my favourite. I am glad this guy Sharp is finished and I hope I’ve stays finished. I was glad Scout was home and sad for his cousin. I love how Basil is still surprised by Ginger. All in all, I recommend it.
I enjoyed it even though the boxing scene is not my favourite. I am glad this guy Sharp is finished and I hope I’ve stays finished. I was glad Scout was home and sad for his cousin. I love how Basil is still surprised by Ginger. All in all, I recommend it.
July 30, 2022
Another good one
I do enjoy these Ginger Gold books. They are a really good way to pass a wet and dreary afternoon, or any afternoon for that matter. If you haven't read one yet, you really should give one a go.
I do enjoy these Ginger Gold books. They are a really good way to pass a wet and dreary afternoon, or any afternoon for that matter. If you haven't read one yet, you really should give one a go.
July 31, 2022
Poor Marvin
He had the shortest boxing career and was shot in the head by Mortimer Sharp because he was close to Basil Reed. Now the family went on holiday to France to keep them safe.
Mortimer Sharp got caught in the act of trying to finish off Marvin Elliott.
He had the shortest boxing career and was shot in the head by Mortimer Sharp because he was close to Basil Reed. Now the family went on holiday to France to keep them safe.
Mortimer Sharp got caught in the act of trying to finish off Marvin Elliott.
August 2, 2022
Finally, Another Ginger Gold Mystery!
The only thing I don’t like about these fun stories is waiting so long for the next one! I enjoy catching up with the characters as much as the mystery component, and the period details add a lot.
The only thing I don’t like about these fun stories is waiting so long for the next one! I enjoy catching up with the characters as much as the mystery component, and the period details add a lot.
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