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An Annalee Spain Mystery #2
Double the Lies
Winner, Christianity Today Book Award for Fiction
In the second installment of Patricia Raybon's critically acclaimed mystery series, amateur detective Annalee Spain races the clock to solve the murder of a barnstorming White stunt pilot before she is framed by the Colorado Klan for the crime. But when the victim's dashing twin falls head over heels for the young Black sleuth, can she solve the crime as it tests both her sleuthing and her recently promised heart?
On a cold spring night in 1924, Annalee Spain offers her new fancy lace handkerchief--a gift from her pastor boyfriend Jack Blake--to a young woman crying in a Denver public library. But later that night, when police find the handkerchief next to the body of the young woman's murdered husband, Annalee becomes the number one suspect, and her panic doubles when she learns that Jack has gone missing.
With just days to solve the murder before the city's Klan-run police frame her for the crime, Annalee finds herself hunting for clues in the Colorado mountain town of Estes Park. She questions the victim's wife and her uncle, a wealthy Denver banker, at their mountain lodge, desperate for leads. Instead, she finds a household full of suspects and even more burning questions. Who keeps threatening her, why can't she find Jack, and will a dangerous flirtation be her undoing? Her answers plumb the depths of the human heart, including her own, exploring long-buried secrets, family lies, even city politics--all of which could cost the young detective her fledgling love . . . and perhaps even her life.
In the second installment of Patricia Raybon's critically acclaimed mystery series, amateur detective Annalee Spain races the clock to solve the murder of a barnstorming White stunt pilot before she is framed by the Colorado Klan for the crime. But when the victim's dashing twin falls head over heels for the young Black sleuth, can she solve the crime as it tests both her sleuthing and her recently promised heart?
On a cold spring night in 1924, Annalee Spain offers her new fancy lace handkerchief--a gift from her pastor boyfriend Jack Blake--to a young woman crying in a Denver public library. But later that night, when police find the handkerchief next to the body of the young woman's murdered husband, Annalee becomes the number one suspect, and her panic doubles when she learns that Jack has gone missing.
With just days to solve the murder before the city's Klan-run police frame her for the crime, Annalee finds herself hunting for clues in the Colorado mountain town of Estes Park. She questions the victim's wife and her uncle, a wealthy Denver banker, at their mountain lodge, desperate for leads. Instead, she finds a household full of suspects and even more burning questions. Who keeps threatening her, why can't she find Jack, and will a dangerous flirtation be her undoing? Her answers plumb the depths of the human heart, including her own, exploring long-buried secrets, family lies, even city politics--all of which could cost the young detective her fledgling love . . . and perhaps even her life.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2023
68 people are currently reading
2233 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Raybon
32 books351 followersA newspaper journalist right out of the gate, Patricia turned to writing historical mystery novels during the pandemic and hasn't looked back. Her first fiction is the award-winning Annalee Spain Mystery series whose debut, “All That Is Secret,” won a Christy Award for First Novel. The series' second installment, “Double the Lies,” won the Christianity Today Book Award for Fiction. The third in the series, “Truth Be Told,” was a New York Times' pick among "4 Great Fictional Detectives."
“...[M]ystery novels that incorporate religion in a significant way aren’t all that common. Thankfully, the inspiring Patricia Raybon, a veteran nonfiction writer and novelist, has been threading the needle in just the right way with her Annalee Spain series, set in 1920s Denver.” (Sarah Weinman, New York Times).
"It's something special," says NBA star Steph Curry about the Annalee story. Others agree. "Brava, Patricia. It is captivating." (Jerry B. Jenkins) "Rich with romance and spiritual searching." (Sujata Massey) "A fast-moving mystery.” (Publishers Weekly) “Not only a good mystery, but a realistic insight into the African American experience in the 1920s in the West.” (Rhys Bowen)
Patricia cut her writing teeth in high-pressure newsrooms and won multiple awards for feature writing during her years at The Denver Post and later at the Scripps Howard Rocky Mountain News in Denver. Mid-career she taught print journalism for 15 years to bright graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Colorado at Boulder.
Now writing full-time, she is a regular contributor at Our Daily Bread and, in addition to writing historical mysteries, is author of two notable memoirs, “My First White Friend,” a winner of the Christopher Award and a Books for a Better Life Award, and “I Told the Mountain to Move: Learning to Pray So Things Change,” a Book of the Year finalist in Christianity Today’s Book Awards. Patricia was also inducted into the Colorado Authors' Hall of Fame.
A lifelong Colorado resident, Patricia is mom to two grown daughters, a “Grammy” to five grandchildren, mother-in-law to one “son,” and the wife of 48 years to her husband Dan Raybon, a retired educator. Patricia and Dan share a passion for movies, popcorn, college hoops, and historical dramas and mysteries on Masterpiece on PBS.
Join her on the journey at her Reader’s Circle at patriciaraybon.com and get her free prayer download, “The Busy Person’s Guide to Hearing God.”
“...[M]ystery novels that incorporate religion in a significant way aren’t all that common. Thankfully, the inspiring Patricia Raybon, a veteran nonfiction writer and novelist, has been threading the needle in just the right way with her Annalee Spain series, set in 1920s Denver.” (Sarah Weinman, New York Times).
"It's something special," says NBA star Steph Curry about the Annalee story. Others agree. "Brava, Patricia. It is captivating." (Jerry B. Jenkins) "Rich with romance and spiritual searching." (Sujata Massey) "A fast-moving mystery.” (Publishers Weekly) “Not only a good mystery, but a realistic insight into the African American experience in the 1920s in the West.” (Rhys Bowen)
Patricia cut her writing teeth in high-pressure newsrooms and won multiple awards for feature writing during her years at The Denver Post and later at the Scripps Howard Rocky Mountain News in Denver. Mid-career she taught print journalism for 15 years to bright graduate and undergraduate students at the University of Colorado at Boulder.
Now writing full-time, she is a regular contributor at Our Daily Bread and, in addition to writing historical mysteries, is author of two notable memoirs, “My First White Friend,” a winner of the Christopher Award and a Books for a Better Life Award, and “I Told the Mountain to Move: Learning to Pray So Things Change,” a Book of the Year finalist in Christianity Today’s Book Awards. Patricia was also inducted into the Colorado Authors' Hall of Fame.
A lifelong Colorado resident, Patricia is mom to two grown daughters, a “Grammy” to five grandchildren, mother-in-law to one “son,” and the wife of 48 years to her husband Dan Raybon, a retired educator. Patricia and Dan share a passion for movies, popcorn, college hoops, and historical dramas and mysteries on Masterpiece on PBS.
Join her on the journey at her Reader’s Circle at patriciaraybon.com and get her free prayer download, “The Busy Person’s Guide to Hearing God.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
April 26, 2025
Double the Lies is the second Annalee Spain mystery book that I have read by Patricia Raybon. The author was a journalist for the Rocky Mountain News in Denver, Colorado bringing her expertise to these novels. The draw for me in these books is early history of Colorado, specifically during prohibition and the jazz age when the Denver black neighborhood of Five Points exploded and was only second to New York City’s Harlem. Nicknamed the “Harlem of the West,” the legendary jazz hotel The Rossonian was host to some of jazz’s greatest entertainers. But sadly, that history included a large and threatening presence of the Ku Klux Klan infiltrating much of the businesses and government, including the governor of Colorado.
And it is in this historic setting that this richly layered mystery with its plot’s many twists and turns as we are immersed in the mysteries to be uncovered by Professor Annalee Spain. It is also replete with an unflinching look at the harsh reality of racial injustice for many black Americans in the 1920s. It is a fast-moving story replete with romance and spiritual searching as well as rich descriptions of fashion, architecture, and culture during the Jazz Age. After giving her new lace handkerchief to a woman found crying in the Denver Public Library, it is later found at the scene of a grisly murder making her a suspect in the crime, most likely framed by the KKK. But Ms. Spain, using her contacts at the police department, is given forty-eight hours to find the murderer. It is in the course of her investigation that takes her to Estes Park in the midst of a raging snowstorm complicating matters as she begins to uncover more lies and secrets. On many levels, this is a race against time.
As in All That Is Secret one of the intriguing aspects of this book was the epigraph opening each chapter with a quotation from Sherlock Holmes from one of his mysteries with a tangential relationship to the book as the mystery unfolded.
And it is in this historic setting that this richly layered mystery with its plot’s many twists and turns as we are immersed in the mysteries to be uncovered by Professor Annalee Spain. It is also replete with an unflinching look at the harsh reality of racial injustice for many black Americans in the 1920s. It is a fast-moving story replete with romance and spiritual searching as well as rich descriptions of fashion, architecture, and culture during the Jazz Age. After giving her new lace handkerchief to a woman found crying in the Denver Public Library, it is later found at the scene of a grisly murder making her a suspect in the crime, most likely framed by the KKK. But Ms. Spain, using her contacts at the police department, is given forty-eight hours to find the murderer. It is in the course of her investigation that takes her to Estes Park in the midst of a raging snowstorm complicating matters as she begins to uncover more lies and secrets. On many levels, this is a race against time.
As in All That Is Secret one of the intriguing aspects of this book was the epigraph opening each chapter with a quotation from Sherlock Holmes from one of his mysteries with a tangential relationship to the book as the mystery unfolded.
“We have a good working basis, however, on which to start.”
——SHERLOCK HOLMES, A STUDY IN SCARLET
“The world is full of obvious things which nobody by any chance ever observes.”
—— SHERLOCK HOLMES, THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES
January 23, 2023
As much as I enjoyed All That Is Secret, Double the Lies really upped the ante. A few of my nitpicky issues with the first book didn't appear at all in this one, which just goes to show that sometimes... book two IS better. And this is one of those times. So much so that I am chomping at the bit for book three.
Did I mention that I really enjoyed book one? Just putting that out there.
I have to say, I didn't catch the "how" of this one until the who was unveiled. I suspected said who, but Raybon made me doubt myself and I started to think, "Whoa... could it be...?" And wow.
Raybon did a fun twisty thing with characters that really got me thinking about racial issues I've never considered really. My brain is still mulling those over and that, my friends, is what makes for a great book for me!
Fast-paced, engaging writing, interesting characters, and unexpected twists keep you turning pages until you collapse in a heap of relief and cozy vibes as it all ties together. Read with a hot drink and a blanket nearby because if the killer doesn't chill you, reading about all that snow sure will!
Did I mention that I really enjoyed book one? Just putting that out there.
I have to say, I didn't catch the "how" of this one until the who was unveiled. I suspected said who, but Raybon made me doubt myself and I started to think, "Whoa... could it be...?" And wow.
Raybon did a fun twisty thing with characters that really got me thinking about racial issues I've never considered really. My brain is still mulling those over and that, my friends, is what makes for a great book for me!
Fast-paced, engaging writing, interesting characters, and unexpected twists keep you turning pages until you collapse in a heap of relief and cozy vibes as it all ties together. Read with a hot drink and a blanket nearby because if the killer doesn't chill you, reading about all that snow sure will!
January 26, 2023
Wow! I could not stop turning pages in the latest story "Double the Lies" by Author Patricia Raybon.
This captivating historical mystery takes place in 1924 in Denver. The amateur sleuth Annalee Spain is back for another adventure where she is trying to solve a murder while not getting framed for it. I love it when I can't figure out who the culprit is! Some of the things I enjoyed most about this story are the references to Sherlock Holmes, the bravery and prayers of Annalee as she gets mixed up in this murder mystery, and the advice given to her by her unlikely friend, Jack's landlady, Mrs. Mason.
Some of my favorite quotes from Double the Lies:
"As the newest detective in her corrupt "Mile High City," Annalee had prayed to God she could help confused people unravel their dramas and hurts-giving them her brave help. Even if I don't always feel brave-or helpful. But as she had learned, help isn't about feelings. Nor is being brave. Help is offering people what they need when they need it."
"Who knew detective work would be so heavy on listening?"
"So yep, I'm praying, Annalee told herself. Because unlike the renowned Holmes, who could unravel the densest mystery, I'm a colored girl trying to solve a crime so that I don't dump in the slammer for a murder I didn't commit."
"Help me, Lord, she suddenly thought, to see the people tonight as I see myself. A little confused sometimes. Struggling to put my best self forward even when others prefer to see me as my worst."
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early pdf copy. I look forward to getting the paperback copy that I preordered for my keeper shelf! All opinions are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed Double the Lies by Patricia Raybon and highly recommend it for lovers of historical fiction, and mysteries.
This captivating historical mystery takes place in 1924 in Denver. The amateur sleuth Annalee Spain is back for another adventure where she is trying to solve a murder while not getting framed for it. I love it when I can't figure out who the culprit is! Some of the things I enjoyed most about this story are the references to Sherlock Holmes, the bravery and prayers of Annalee as she gets mixed up in this murder mystery, and the advice given to her by her unlikely friend, Jack's landlady, Mrs. Mason.
Some of my favorite quotes from Double the Lies:
"As the newest detective in her corrupt "Mile High City," Annalee had prayed to God she could help confused people unravel their dramas and hurts-giving them her brave help. Even if I don't always feel brave-or helpful. But as she had learned, help isn't about feelings. Nor is being brave. Help is offering people what they need when they need it."
"Who knew detective work would be so heavy on listening?"
"So yep, I'm praying, Annalee told herself. Because unlike the renowned Holmes, who could unravel the densest mystery, I'm a colored girl trying to solve a crime so that I don't dump in the slammer for a murder I didn't commit."
"Help me, Lord, she suddenly thought, to see the people tonight as I see myself. A little confused sometimes. Struggling to put my best self forward even when others prefer to see me as my worst."
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early pdf copy. I look forward to getting the paperback copy that I preordered for my keeper shelf! All opinions are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed Double the Lies by Patricia Raybon and highly recommend it for lovers of historical fiction, and mysteries.
November 14, 2023
I didn't enjoy this one as much as book 1 but I still enjoyed it overall. The mystery in this book was very convoluted and there were entirely too many characters. I started this book awhile ago but I just really wasn't in the mood for it. I'm currently really in the mood for Historical Fiction so that's why I decided to finally finish it.
Double the Lies is the 2nd book in the Annalee Spain mystery series. Annalee is formally a Black teacher in the 1920's who becomes a private detective in Colorado. I think you Could consider this a cozy mystery but I don't because I don't think I'd consider any story with KKK in it cozy. This book has a lot of racism but it's still less dark than most mysteries I read.
Since this is the 2nd book I can't tell you much about it but I will say that if you like me didn't enjoy a certain member of the cloth from book 1...you might be happy.
If there is a book 3 I'll probably read it because it do enjoy the world that Patricia Raybon has built and I want to see what mess Annalee gets herself into next.
Double the Lies is the 2nd book in the Annalee Spain mystery series. Annalee is formally a Black teacher in the 1920's who becomes a private detective in Colorado. I think you Could consider this a cozy mystery but I don't because I don't think I'd consider any story with KKK in it cozy. This book has a lot of racism but it's still less dark than most mysteries I read.
Since this is the 2nd book I can't tell you much about it but I will say that if you like me didn't enjoy a certain member of the cloth from book 1...you might be happy.
If there is a book 3 I'll probably read it because it do enjoy the world that Patricia Raybon has built and I want to see what mess Annalee gets herself into next.
February 10, 2023
Disclosure: I received a complimentary eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions conveyed are my own.
Spiritual Themes
In this book, we see Annalee’s realistic walk with the Lord. Like many Christians, she struggles with trusting God in the scarier moments. But it is in those moments that we get to witness her genuine faith in, and reliance upon, God. For instance, when she simply prays to God for help, she recognizes that this is an honest prayer, and wonders if “[those] are the prayers God answer[s] first. Honest ones.”
And that conclusion certainly makes sense, given the Bible’s emphasis on sincerity in prayers. Jesus decries those who think their gods will listen because they pray long, showy prayers (Matt. 6:7). James discusses the importance of praying with sincerity, though this reference is in the context of doubt (James 1:6). Still, I think it makes sense in Annalee’s context, too, because the fact that she’s asking for help does show that she’s placing her faith in God.
We also see Annalee’s prayer of gratitude, in the last few pages of the book. She thanks God for helping her through a situation. It’s a short prayer, but what I like about it is its simple familiarity. While in some ways, the book is lighter in “spiritual content” than other books that I read, the brief moments of prayer point to the character’s simple dependence on God– and beyond dependence, a friendship with Him. Annalee doesn’t always get everything right, but it’s clear that she recognizes God is with her. And that friendship is beautiful.
I also enjoyed an allusion to Sherlock Holmes believing in God. I have not read all of the SH stories, but Raybon’s books definitely put me in the mood to!
What I Liked
Just as in the first book, quotations from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes books are included as epigraphs to begin each chapter. This is something I really enjoy in the Annalee Spain books. Likewise, the detective element, throughout the story, is a lot of fun. I especially like to join Annalee on her undercover investigations, as she enters into the thick of the mysteries. In fact, reading this book reminds me of just how much I enjoy the mystery genre, exemplifying the differences between “mystery” and “suspense.” Plus, it definitely gave me the feel of a Sherlock Holmes book.
The historical elements are well-written. This novel, like the first, is set in the 1920s, amidst the resurgence of the KKK. In Double the Lies, the characters are becoming more aware of the presence of the KKK and of the hold that it is gaining in the community: terrorizing minority groups and banning entrepreneurs from the business world. The KKK is an imminent threat, and the reason Annalee must solve the mystery, throughout the book. Even so, she continues to demonstrate grace and dignity, even when confronting those who have made themselves her enemies.
The plot pacing was great, moving swiftly from one action point to the next, while also spending just the right amount of time on some particularly interesting moments, which I won’t spoil here. I also think the author did a good job of weaving in Annalee’s romance with Jack, while also keeping the mystery tight and engaging.
Character relationships, and not just romantic ones, were also a major point of interest for me, in this book. I enjoyed witnessing the formation of unexpected friendships, including friendships that resembled family connections, like Annalee’s continued relationship with young Eddie, a white orphan. It was also interesting to tag along with Annalee, as she untangled the complicated interactions within and surrounding the Mann and Wallace families.
Content Notes
As with the first book, there are a number of colloquial uses of the Lord’s name. Romantic content isn’t particularly graphic. There are a few allusions to Annalee “not minding” or “letting him” when Jack holds her closer or longer than necessary.
Recommendation Status
I really enjoyed All That is Secret, the first book of Patricia Raybon’s Annalee Spain series, and Double the Lies is an excellent follow-up. Recommended, in particular, for those who enjoy detective stories in the vein of Sherlock Holmes.
Spiritual Themes
In this book, we see Annalee’s realistic walk with the Lord. Like many Christians, she struggles with trusting God in the scarier moments. But it is in those moments that we get to witness her genuine faith in, and reliance upon, God. For instance, when she simply prays to God for help, she recognizes that this is an honest prayer, and wonders if “[those] are the prayers God answer[s] first. Honest ones.”
And that conclusion certainly makes sense, given the Bible’s emphasis on sincerity in prayers. Jesus decries those who think their gods will listen because they pray long, showy prayers (Matt. 6:7). James discusses the importance of praying with sincerity, though this reference is in the context of doubt (James 1:6). Still, I think it makes sense in Annalee’s context, too, because the fact that she’s asking for help does show that she’s placing her faith in God.
We also see Annalee’s prayer of gratitude, in the last few pages of the book. She thanks God for helping her through a situation. It’s a short prayer, but what I like about it is its simple familiarity. While in some ways, the book is lighter in “spiritual content” than other books that I read, the brief moments of prayer point to the character’s simple dependence on God– and beyond dependence, a friendship with Him. Annalee doesn’t always get everything right, but it’s clear that she recognizes God is with her. And that friendship is beautiful.
I also enjoyed an allusion to Sherlock Holmes believing in God. I have not read all of the SH stories, but Raybon’s books definitely put me in the mood to!
What I Liked
Just as in the first book, quotations from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes books are included as epigraphs to begin each chapter. This is something I really enjoy in the Annalee Spain books. Likewise, the detective element, throughout the story, is a lot of fun. I especially like to join Annalee on her undercover investigations, as she enters into the thick of the mysteries. In fact, reading this book reminds me of just how much I enjoy the mystery genre, exemplifying the differences between “mystery” and “suspense.” Plus, it definitely gave me the feel of a Sherlock Holmes book.
The historical elements are well-written. This novel, like the first, is set in the 1920s, amidst the resurgence of the KKK. In Double the Lies, the characters are becoming more aware of the presence of the KKK and of the hold that it is gaining in the community: terrorizing minority groups and banning entrepreneurs from the business world. The KKK is an imminent threat, and the reason Annalee must solve the mystery, throughout the book. Even so, she continues to demonstrate grace and dignity, even when confronting those who have made themselves her enemies.
The plot pacing was great, moving swiftly from one action point to the next, while also spending just the right amount of time on some particularly interesting moments, which I won’t spoil here. I also think the author did a good job of weaving in Annalee’s romance with Jack, while also keeping the mystery tight and engaging.
Character relationships, and not just romantic ones, were also a major point of interest for me, in this book. I enjoyed witnessing the formation of unexpected friendships, including friendships that resembled family connections, like Annalee’s continued relationship with young Eddie, a white orphan. It was also interesting to tag along with Annalee, as she untangled the complicated interactions within and surrounding the Mann and Wallace families.
Content Notes
As with the first book, there are a number of colloquial uses of the Lord’s name. Romantic content isn’t particularly graphic. There are a few allusions to Annalee “not minding” or “letting him” when Jack holds her closer or longer than necessary.
Recommendation Status
I really enjoyed All That is Secret, the first book of Patricia Raybon’s Annalee Spain series, and Double the Lies is an excellent follow-up. Recommended, in particular, for those who enjoy detective stories in the vein of Sherlock Holmes.
April 30, 2023
An innocent gesture of kindness leads to Annalee being framed for the murder of a young barnstorming pilot.
Annalee takes on the case, and proving her own innocence depends on it. A wonderful follow up to the first book in the series, picking up shortly after the events of the previous book, Annalee still has questions about her origins, and is exploring her new relationship with Jack.
Fast paced and full of adventure this is a quick read, I liked the continued development of the characters as well as meeting all the new faces in this twisting mystery. I especially liked Mrs. Mason and her gruff, motherly ways.
Overall, a fun adventure and great addition to the series. It will be fun to see where it goes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Annalee takes on the case, and proving her own innocence depends on it. A wonderful follow up to the first book in the series, picking up shortly after the events of the previous book, Annalee still has questions about her origins, and is exploring her new relationship with Jack.
Fast paced and full of adventure this is a quick read, I liked the continued development of the characters as well as meeting all the new faces in this twisting mystery. I especially liked Mrs. Mason and her gruff, motherly ways.
Overall, a fun adventure and great addition to the series. It will be fun to see where it goes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 24, 2023
1924 Colorado
This sophomore historical mystery is a good one! Annalee Spain offers to help a lady in distress and ends up coming upon a murder. Her path and the tentacles around the murder take lots of twists and turns. Double the Lies is full of historical details and atmosphere.
This sophomore historical mystery is a good one! Annalee Spain offers to help a lady in distress and ends up coming upon a murder. Her path and the tentacles around the murder take lots of twists and turns. Double the Lies is full of historical details and atmosphere.
April 17, 2023
Great book. Read this one before the first in the series, library only had this one as a book. First in the series. All that is secret, I have reserved. Can’t wait to read it.
March 22, 2023
For some reason, I don’t hear a lot about this series. Christian fiction often seems like it has a lower standard of writing compared to secular fiction, but these books have great writing and a true mystery that is so good! I love the characters, the history, the setting and how well I can picture it unfolding. It’s unique and a breath of fresh air. I can’t wait for # 3.
October 3, 2022
This is the second book in this series of detective style themed books from this author that I have read. Detective Annalee Spain is a natural born inquirer. She will hunt down the clues and the suspects without concern for her own safety. I especially like her relationship with God and her inner thought and prayer life. The author will make you fall in love with Annalee Spain.
The reader does not need to read the first book in this series in order to keep up with this plot. It does help to have some back story on her childhood and the people in her life that she cares about when she references them in her thoughts. I do hope the author continues with Annalee Spain solving murders and mysteries in her upcoming books.
This book is suitable for young readers and does not co rain anything explicit. I was given a free copy in exchange for my review.
The reader does not need to read the first book in this series in order to keep up with this plot. It does help to have some back story on her childhood and the people in her life that she cares about when she references them in her thoughts. I do hope the author continues with Annalee Spain solving murders and mysteries in her upcoming books.
This book is suitable for young readers and does not co rain anything explicit. I was given a free copy in exchange for my review.
May 13, 2023
Annalee Spain has another murder to solve, with her life on the line. While she is digging through the lies, trying to discover the information she needs, she is also having to do some soul searching and reassess some of her relationships. One of the fascinating things about this series is opening the reader's eyes to the difficulties of life in 1920's Colorado for not just anyone other than white, but also Jews and Catholics and the prevalence of the Klu Klux Klan. About halfway through the book I realized I wasn't going to be able to stop until I'd read the last page. Double the Lies is a very well-written, thought-provoking mystery that I highly recommend. I'm looking forward to the next Annalee Spain mystery.
April 11, 2023
Great second book . Listened on Audible and enjoyed the characters. I was trying to help Annalee figure out who did it!! I guess I'm not a good detective!!😁
February 7, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley & Tyndale House Publishers for a digital advance reader copy. All comments and opinions are my own.
This is the second Annalee Spain Mystery in the series, and it’s as good as the first. You can easily read this as a stand-alone because author Patricia Raybon neatly fills in all the gaps for those who are picking this one up first. And once you finish, you’ll definitely want to read “All That Is Secret.”
Annalee Spain, a 24-year-old African American orphan who never knew her mother, is the newest detective in her corrupt “Mile High City” of Denver CO in 1924. With Sherlock Holmes as her role model, she looks to God for courage and strength. “She had prayed to God she could help confused people unravel their dramas and hurts – giving them her brave help. Even if she doesn’t always feel brave – or helpful. But as she had learned, help isn’t about feelings. Nor about being brave. Help is offering people what they need, when they need it.”
The action begins early in the first chapter, with Annalee coming across a murdered man in a new friend’s kitchen. The corrupt police think Annalee is the murderer because her handkerchief is found nearby, and because she’s Black. She explains her situation to the murdered man’s wife: “I’m a colored girl trying to solve a crime so that I don’t end up in the slammer for a murder I didn’t commit. If I can’t find the killer, I go to jail. Or the gallows.”
Raybon accurately recreates the racism and sexism of the time, describing the pervasive evilness of the Klan, the cultural mores of 1920s society, judgmental attitudes regarding race, the class differences between the wealthy and those just getting by. Additionally, Raybon paints a descriptive portrait of the period – where barnstorming pilots and airplanes are new and entertaining; negative attitudes towards Catholics and Jews, as well as Blacks; both legal and illegal investments; and businesses unaware of the upcoming crash of 1929.
While Annalee works to uncover the murderer, she discovers secrets and lies of the victim’s family. Using clues plus her intuition and the advice she recalls from Sherlock Holmes’ various cases, she puts herself in danger in order to find the truth.
There are several elements that take this novel a step above your typical amateur detective story. Annalee is determined and dogged, yet talented in making sense of seemingly random facts and clues. We are privy to Annalee’s honest thoughts and therefore I felt like I knew her. “I’m just starting to be a detective. Because it’s demanding and scary. Somedays I feel plumb crazy to even try.” Through these thoughts we learn of her sometimes tenuous relationship with God. It was encouraging as she leaned on Him during the most dangerous situations, and her uncertainty about what to do regarding moral decisions.
One fun aspect of the novel was how each chapter begins with a quote from one of Sherlock Holmes’ books. I enjoyed how each quote is a clue for the reader of the advice Annalee will need in that chapter.
Themes of family, lies, secrets, as well as dedication and loyalty are woven together in a tapestry where the truth is finally explained in an exciting and revealing edge-of-your-seat scene. This was an enjoyable historical mystery with a likeable heroine who demonstrates bravery as she tries to help people and discover her own dreams, friendships, and romantic love.
This is the second Annalee Spain Mystery in the series, and it’s as good as the first. You can easily read this as a stand-alone because author Patricia Raybon neatly fills in all the gaps for those who are picking this one up first. And once you finish, you’ll definitely want to read “All That Is Secret.”
Annalee Spain, a 24-year-old African American orphan who never knew her mother, is the newest detective in her corrupt “Mile High City” of Denver CO in 1924. With Sherlock Holmes as her role model, she looks to God for courage and strength. “She had prayed to God she could help confused people unravel their dramas and hurts – giving them her brave help. Even if she doesn’t always feel brave – or helpful. But as she had learned, help isn’t about feelings. Nor about being brave. Help is offering people what they need, when they need it.”
The action begins early in the first chapter, with Annalee coming across a murdered man in a new friend’s kitchen. The corrupt police think Annalee is the murderer because her handkerchief is found nearby, and because she’s Black. She explains her situation to the murdered man’s wife: “I’m a colored girl trying to solve a crime so that I don’t end up in the slammer for a murder I didn’t commit. If I can’t find the killer, I go to jail. Or the gallows.”
Raybon accurately recreates the racism and sexism of the time, describing the pervasive evilness of the Klan, the cultural mores of 1920s society, judgmental attitudes regarding race, the class differences between the wealthy and those just getting by. Additionally, Raybon paints a descriptive portrait of the period – where barnstorming pilots and airplanes are new and entertaining; negative attitudes towards Catholics and Jews, as well as Blacks; both legal and illegal investments; and businesses unaware of the upcoming crash of 1929.
While Annalee works to uncover the murderer, she discovers secrets and lies of the victim’s family. Using clues plus her intuition and the advice she recalls from Sherlock Holmes’ various cases, she puts herself in danger in order to find the truth.
There are several elements that take this novel a step above your typical amateur detective story. Annalee is determined and dogged, yet talented in making sense of seemingly random facts and clues. We are privy to Annalee’s honest thoughts and therefore I felt like I knew her. “I’m just starting to be a detective. Because it’s demanding and scary. Somedays I feel plumb crazy to even try.” Through these thoughts we learn of her sometimes tenuous relationship with God. It was encouraging as she leaned on Him during the most dangerous situations, and her uncertainty about what to do regarding moral decisions.
One fun aspect of the novel was how each chapter begins with a quote from one of Sherlock Holmes’ books. I enjoyed how each quote is a clue for the reader of the advice Annalee will need in that chapter.
Themes of family, lies, secrets, as well as dedication and loyalty are woven together in a tapestry where the truth is finally explained in an exciting and revealing edge-of-your-seat scene. This was an enjoyable historical mystery with a likeable heroine who demonstrates bravery as she tries to help people and discover her own dreams, friendships, and romantic love.
April 30, 2023
My Rating: 4.5 stars
"So yep, I'm praying, Annalee told herself. Because unlike the renowned Holmes, who could unravel the densest mystery, I'm a colored girl trying to solve a crime so that I don't dump in the slammer for a murder I didn't commit."
Double the Lies starts up not too long after the first book ends. While at the library looking for information about her birth mother Annalee overhears a couple fighting and after the husband leaves goes and comforts the wife and loans her a handkerchief. This handkerchief ends up getting Annalee into some hot water as the women's husband ends up dead, and seeing how the local police have multiple people in the KKK in it that's not good for Annalee after what happened in the first book. On top of this, she is needing to solve who killed the husband in order to help clear her name, but multiple people who want to remain anonymous are trying to intimidate her and keep her from doing this. Her love life is also suddenly complicated when Jack doesn't show up for their date and no one knows where he is.
"Who knew detective work would be so heavy on listening?"
Overall this book was so good, but also so stressful because of all that Annalee was involved in. From trying to solve the murders, trying to figure out who is blackmailing her, and dealing with her romantic life drama a lot is happening at once. Annalee deals with it all in stride and we also see her finally get some respect for the work she's been doing. All of the side characters were just as enjoyable as in the first book and I loved the mini-mysteries we get alongside the big main mystery of solving the murder.
The part in this book about aviation was fascinating and was nice to see it mentioned in a different way than I've been seeing it in historical fiction because it was used for those reasons during the prohibition times.
As for Annalee's romantic life which was one of the big questions throughout the book, I'll let you read the book to find that out as it gets a little complicated but in a good way. I'm hoping it ends up being in a good way at least.
I need and want this series to get more love because it deals with some hard topics of the 1920s while also having great mysteries along the way.
I cannot wait to see what Annalee gets up to next and what Mystery she is able to find to try and solve.
"So yep, I'm praying, Annalee told herself. Because unlike the renowned Holmes, who could unravel the densest mystery, I'm a colored girl trying to solve a crime so that I don't dump in the slammer for a murder I didn't commit."
Double the Lies starts up not too long after the first book ends. While at the library looking for information about her birth mother Annalee overhears a couple fighting and after the husband leaves goes and comforts the wife and loans her a handkerchief. This handkerchief ends up getting Annalee into some hot water as the women's husband ends up dead, and seeing how the local police have multiple people in the KKK in it that's not good for Annalee after what happened in the first book. On top of this, she is needing to solve who killed the husband in order to help clear her name, but multiple people who want to remain anonymous are trying to intimidate her and keep her from doing this. Her love life is also suddenly complicated when Jack doesn't show up for their date and no one knows where he is.
"Who knew detective work would be so heavy on listening?"
Overall this book was so good, but also so stressful because of all that Annalee was involved in. From trying to solve the murders, trying to figure out who is blackmailing her, and dealing with her romantic life drama a lot is happening at once. Annalee deals with it all in stride and we also see her finally get some respect for the work she's been doing. All of the side characters were just as enjoyable as in the first book and I loved the mini-mysteries we get alongside the big main mystery of solving the murder.
The part in this book about aviation was fascinating and was nice to see it mentioned in a different way than I've been seeing it in historical fiction because it was used for those reasons during the prohibition times.
As for Annalee's romantic life which was one of the big questions throughout the book, I'll let you read the book to find that out as it gets a little complicated but in a good way. I'm hoping it ends up being in a good way at least.
I need and want this series to get more love because it deals with some hard topics of the 1920s while also having great mysteries along the way.
I cannot wait to see what Annalee gets up to next and what Mystery she is able to find to try and solve.
January 27, 2023
This is a great book! I like it just as much as her first book! It's a fine mystery and it takes place in Denver and Estes Park in the 1920's (I'm a big fan of historical mysteries). Annalee Spain, now a private detective, looks into the murder of Jeffrey Mann, an airplane pilot and barnstormer. This puts her friends in danger too, from the Ku Klux Klan, very active in Colorado at the time, and the person who sends her threatening letters. The man in her life, a pastor, disappears, and the Klan looks to blame her for the murder. She travels to Estes Park looking for answers among the family and employees of Jewish businessman Simon Wallace before she can be charged with the crime.
July 17, 2025
Double the Lies Double the Good writing
This book is part two in a series of three. This book does not disappoint and is almost better than the first. The mystery of finding a killer by Detective Anna lee Spain does not disappoint and her new secret lover is something different.
This book is part two in a series of three. This book does not disappoint and is almost better than the first. The mystery of finding a killer by Detective Anna lee Spain does not disappoint and her new secret lover is something different.
October 6, 2022
I enjoyed this second in the Annalee Spain mystery series even more than I did the first. The central mystery wasn't as weighted down by Annalee's backstory, although there were hints that the mystery she is "hired" to solve in this book actually does have ties to her own story. It seems we'll have to wait for the next in the series to learn more. Again, the most compelling part of the book for me was the historical setting, tying together places I know well, like Estes Park with the racism and KKK activity that were so prevalent in the 1920s.
September 7, 2024
This book was so good. I felt all the feels -outrage among them! (How can people be so idiotic in their treatment of others and well, out right evil in their idiocy ? )The mystery and history in this writing was so fun and my only regret was that I accidentally started with the second book in the series. Now I know who the murderer was in the first book. So don’t make the same mistake I did.
December 21, 2022
I really enjoyed this second book in the Annalee Spain Mystery Series. Annalee continues to be a unique, quirky, likable main character. I enjoy her heart and honesty. This story moved along well with plenty of twists and turns and multilevel interaction between the good variety of interesting characters. The ending was unexpected and makes me anticipate further books in the series. I enjoyed the history woven into the story along with the intrigue and aspects of Annalee’s faith. It is a good book and I look forward to reading more in the series.
January 26, 2023
I really like the characters in this series and the unique way this author tells her stories. They have a sort of understated, classic feel to them that I really enjoy. And they are not at all predictable! I am especially appreciating the way this author presents issues of race in a very balanced, even-handed, truthful way. I'm excited for the next installment in Miss Annalee Spain's story!
I received a complimentary electronic copy of this book from NetGalley.
I received a complimentary electronic copy of this book from NetGalley.
March 21, 2023
Patricia Raybon does not disappoint with this second installment in Annalee Spain’s journey. I absolutely loved how the 1st book in the series displays how Annalee prays and thinks through each situation she encounters and this 2nd book continues that character development. Patricia Raybon shines a valuable historical light in this story while also introducing us to some new characters and experiences. The intricacies and details included in this book display her quality research into this time period and the obstacles that were present for all kinds of people. I am so impressed with the way the author provides enough imagery and details to provide the reader new awareness but then also chooses at times to refrain, leaving the reader to connect the dots. Well done!! I cannot wait to see what else Annalee learns and encounters - Please write a 3rd book!!
January 29, 2023
Raybon managed to weave a complicated mystery together without making the ending too obvious. Loved this book! I enjoyed the historical details as well about an African American woman's experience with prejudice and needing to protect herself from the KKK. I had no idea that the KKK had such a large presence in Denver during the 1950's. A book well written!
December 14, 2022
I loved this book! The cover is appealing and pretty, too! The main character, Annalee Spain, has a lot of spunk, wit and bravery! Her character is very appealing, too. She lives in Denver in 1924 and is drawn to be a detective to do good in the world. Annalee prays for God to lead her to people who need help. Sometimes she needs help herself, avoiding troublemakers and the Klan. She offers her new handkerchief, given to her by her boyfriend, who is a pastor, to a crying lady. Later this is used as "evidence" when the lady's husband is found killed. Annalee works in her own way to ask questions to discover leads. This is the first book I have read by the author and I look forward to reading more.
I appreciate being given this advanced reader copy from the publisher, Tyndale. The views expressed are my own.
I appreciate being given this advanced reader copy from the publisher, Tyndale. The views expressed are my own.
January 6, 2023
This is my first book by Patricia Raybon, Double the Lies, book two of the Annalee Spain Mystery series. While there were a few backstory themes I missed in book one, it didn’t impede my enjoyment and immersion in Double the Lies.
I love historical, but this was my first foray into the “Roaring Twenties.” What a revolutionary time of free-spirited attitudes, “modern” conveniences, and prosperity. But for folks like our protagonist, Annalee, the rise of oppression and racism dimmed the shine of these advances and freedoms. Sometimes yanking them out of reach to people of color, Catholics, and the Jewish people.
A handsome pilot is murdered, and no one seems to care but the widow and his twin brother. As Annalee hones her detective skills, she also comes across clues to her personal mysteries. Mysteries she truly longs to solve.
While the persecution of the KKK and general racism surrounded Annalee, her determination to right a wrong never wavered, even at threat to her life and those she loved. She seeks God, but still seems to be developing her relationship with Him.
Then there is the romance. Two men tug on Annalee’s heart. One who is safe—another who is dangerous.
The twists and turns, red herrings, and surprise ending has me waiting for another in the series! Hope it is soon, Ms. Raybon.
I received an ARC from the publisher for my honest review.
I love historical, but this was my first foray into the “Roaring Twenties.” What a revolutionary time of free-spirited attitudes, “modern” conveniences, and prosperity. But for folks like our protagonist, Annalee, the rise of oppression and racism dimmed the shine of these advances and freedoms. Sometimes yanking them out of reach to people of color, Catholics, and the Jewish people.
A handsome pilot is murdered, and no one seems to care but the widow and his twin brother. As Annalee hones her detective skills, she also comes across clues to her personal mysteries. Mysteries she truly longs to solve.
While the persecution of the KKK and general racism surrounded Annalee, her determination to right a wrong never wavered, even at threat to her life and those she loved. She seeks God, but still seems to be developing her relationship with Him.
Then there is the romance. Two men tug on Annalee’s heart. One who is safe—another who is dangerous.
The twists and turns, red herrings, and surprise ending has me waiting for another in the series! Hope it is soon, Ms. Raybon.
I received an ARC from the publisher for my honest review.
Want to read
March 2, 2023This novel, like the first, is set in the 1920’s, amidst the resurgence of the KKK. In Double the Lies, the characters are becoming more aware of their presence. They are gaining ground in the community: The KKK is an imminent threat, and the reason Annalee must solve the mystery, throughout the story. Annalee is an inspiration as she continues to demonstrate grace, and dignity, even when confronting those who have made themselves her enemies.
I liked that the author has a natural spiritual thread throughout the book. Readers see Annalee struggle with trusting God. In the scary moments, readers see her genuine faith in action, when she simply prays for His help.
I enjoyed the quotes from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes books. They begin each chapter. Loved the mystery aspect to the story, filled with suspense and drama. I also liked how this author takes readers into the depths of the time period, racial tensions, and shows what a young black woman faces daily, and the things she has to be aware of while doing her super sleuthing. Annalee is an intelligent woman, who faces danger with her eyes open and ready to fight.
This is a fascinating read I couldn’t put down. It’s also a great book for your book club pick.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
I liked that the author has a natural spiritual thread throughout the book. Readers see Annalee struggle with trusting God. In the scary moments, readers see her genuine faith in action, when she simply prays for His help.
I enjoyed the quotes from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes books. They begin each chapter. Loved the mystery aspect to the story, filled with suspense and drama. I also liked how this author takes readers into the depths of the time period, racial tensions, and shows what a young black woman faces daily, and the things she has to be aware of while doing her super sleuthing. Annalee is an intelligent woman, who faces danger with her eyes open and ready to fight.
This is a fascinating read I couldn’t put down. It’s also a great book for your book club pick.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
March 7, 2023
What to say about this second installment of this mystery series. Annalee finds herself in the middle of another murder and has to take on the detective role to keep herself out of jail. She must be Sherlock himself to untangle the web in this one. I really enjoy the authors writing. This second book was fast paced and I didn’t realize who did it until it was introduced. I loved the mystery of it all and Annalee still unraveling things about her own pass . And the romance, these men love them a independent black Queen.
It was frustrating as it always is to be faced with the realities of what it was like to be a black person in this time period while the KKK was openly meeting. Annalee’s experiences are no less trouble some in this installment as it was in the first. I just want Annalee to settle down with her love and stop being harassed by those racist people.
Looking forward to the second installment & hope we get to finally uncover all of Annalee’s past.
It was frustrating as it always is to be faced with the realities of what it was like to be a black person in this time period while the KKK was openly meeting. Annalee’s experiences are no less trouble some in this installment as it was in the first. I just want Annalee to settle down with her love and stop being harassed by those racist people.
Looking forward to the second installment & hope we get to finally uncover all of Annalee’s past.
March 7, 2023
What a fantastic read!
Double the Lies has SO much going on, all at once, that you can't help but be stumped all the way through! Murder, romance, airplanes, and the Klan - this book is jam packed with action, adventure, and characters learning hard life lessons... All while mixing in a delightful Sherlock Holmes flavor that's set in 1920s Colorado.
I can't wait to read about Annalee Spain's next case!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Double the Lies has SO much going on, all at once, that you can't help but be stumped all the way through! Murder, romance, airplanes, and the Klan - this book is jam packed with action, adventure, and characters learning hard life lessons... All while mixing in a delightful Sherlock Holmes flavor that's set in 1920s Colorado.
I can't wait to read about Annalee Spain's next case!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 11, 2023
A mix of so many elements that I love.
March 7, 2023
Professor Annalee Spain is back and finds herself in the middle of a murder for which she has been framed. Raybon takes the reader on the hunt to solve the mystery. But just as one secret is uncovered, more questions arise. I found the historical context of Double the Lies very interesting and learned a lot from the background Raybon included in the story.
I received a copy for review. The opinions expressed are my own.
I received a copy for review. The opinions expressed are my own.
March 4, 2023
This is a riveting historical, faith based mystery set in Denver in the 1920s. Annalee Spain has gone from Professor to Lady Detective, a dangerous profession for a young black women in a city controlled by the Klan. Her first case involves a young white woman who is worried about her husband, a pilot. Was later found dead at the residence with Annalee fleeing the scene with an item of hers, a handkerchief. The trail leads her to Estes Park, where the young woman's uncle a prominent banker lives. It's an interesting book with a lot of suspense and history behind it.
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