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The Distance Between Us
The suspicious death of an elderly widow on the grounds of the HomePort Estate sends shock waves through the seaside resort of Provincetown.
Wrongly accused of the murder, beloved entertainer Helena Handbasket forsakes her oceanside mansion and goes undercover to track down those responsible. Aided by her chosen family, she uses her comic genius and extraordinary talent for impersonation to navigate a maze of deception and greed that includes a museum break-in, thefts of iconic artwork, and some shady liaisons. As the investigation gains momentum, the past increasingly influences the present, exposing hidden secrets and imperiling Helena’s well-heeled existence.
Set amid Cape Cod’s natural beauty and vibrant summer season, this captivating sequel to The HomePort Journals unfolds against the backdrop of a small town struggling to balance its newfound celebrity with a cherished way of life.
Wrongly accused of the murder, beloved entertainer Helena Handbasket forsakes her oceanside mansion and goes undercover to track down those responsible. Aided by her chosen family, she uses her comic genius and extraordinary talent for impersonation to navigate a maze of deception and greed that includes a museum break-in, thefts of iconic artwork, and some shady liaisons. As the investigation gains momentum, the past increasingly influences the present, exposing hidden secrets and imperiling Helena’s well-heeled existence.
Set amid Cape Cod’s natural beauty and vibrant summer season, this captivating sequel to The HomePort Journals unfolds against the backdrop of a small town struggling to balance its newfound celebrity with a cherished way of life.
- GenresMystery
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2023
3 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
A.C. Burch
4 books102 followersA. C. Burch's debut novel was The HomePort Journals, whose sequel is The Distance Between Us, (May 2023.) He has also published a book of short stories entitled A Book of Revelations.
A. C. splits his time between Provincetown and South Beach, two oceanside communities, the former built on sand, the latter on limestone.
A. C. splits his time between Provincetown and South Beach, two oceanside communities, the former built on sand, the latter on limestone.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 17, 2023
True literary fiction - beautiful and melodic prose. An murder-mystery, that is so much more. The cast of characters felt authentic, with beaucoup personalities and a strong undercurrent of satire and dark humor (or maybe it’s just the knowing sarcasm of having lived a full life while entertaining the inanities of those “onion rings”). While an entertaining murder-mystery, the real meat of this story felt like an ode to the Queers who didn’t make it to “elder queer” status, due to the AIDS epidemic, homophobia, transphobia, and just plain fear of self. So many tears for this journey of self-love and acceptance. Plus, how could I not love a book that name drops Jessica Fletcher, RuPaul, and the Monty Python troupe?!
May 10, 2023
Let me start by saying I absolutely love everything about this cover. It reminds me of an abstract painting that you stare at for hours and just get lost in.
I'll be honest, I had a little bit of a rough time getting into the book at first. After reading the first 50 pages, I found that I was curious about what was going to happen next. Between the twists from the plot and getting to know the characters, plus who doesn't love a murder mystery, this book was rather interesting and well worth it.
I'll be honest, I had a little bit of a rough time getting into the book at first. After reading the first 50 pages, I found that I was curious about what was going to happen next. Between the twists from the plot and getting to know the characters, plus who doesn't love a murder mystery, this book was rather interesting and well worth it.
February 7, 2023
Helena Handbasket is executrix of the Staunton Memorial Foundation. The thing about Helena is, as you will learn, she blends in to places you never thought she could. And that is both a good thing and not so good as you will see as the story progresses.
It's a far cry from the beaten Harold Blithe the late Staunton sisters rescued one night. Almost no one has a clue as to the horrible life he had, except his grandmother who now lives with Helena, the drag persona Harold becomes. Helena gives back so much to the Lower Cape community as she and others work diligently to keep the area from becoming another Hamptons. The artists of all types are a grand part of the milieu of that area and fight to keep it that way
Helena gets embroiled in the strangest mystery where someone dies, someone is accused as others fight to prove and protect. Where money speaks louder than any protests and in the end who wins?
Really, this book blew me away, keeping me up way past bedtime. And I have to admit that after I read the opening, I almost gave up on it. I am so glad I didn't though. Thank you Book Sirens for this opportunity to discover a new author. Highly Recommended 5/5
[Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review]
It's a far cry from the beaten Harold Blithe the late Staunton sisters rescued one night. Almost no one has a clue as to the horrible life he had, except his grandmother who now lives with Helena, the drag persona Harold becomes. Helena gives back so much to the Lower Cape community as she and others work diligently to keep the area from becoming another Hamptons. The artists of all types are a grand part of the milieu of that area and fight to keep it that way
Helena gets embroiled in the strangest mystery where someone dies, someone is accused as others fight to prove and protect. Where money speaks louder than any protests and in the end who wins?
Really, this book blew me away, keeping me up way past bedtime. And I have to admit that after I read the opening, I almost gave up on it. I am so glad I didn't though. Thank you Book Sirens for this opportunity to discover a new author. Highly Recommended 5/5
[Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review]
May 30, 2023
I really enjoyed this book that combined a well plotted mystery with the dynamics of change in the Cape Cod town of Provincetown.
The cast of characters are an eclectic group that work together (except for the bad guys) to find the truth.
The main character is female impersonator, Helena Handbasket, who is the executive director of the Staunton Trust. She is getting ready for the opening of the Staunton Museum when she discovers a group of paintings by famous local artist, Mavis Chandry, have been vandalized.
This is just the beginning of a series of events that include art theft and murder with Helena being treated as the prime suspect.
Helena and her community of family and friends work together to find out the connections as they try to keep each other safe.
THE HOMEPORT JOURNALS is the first book in this series set in Provincetown, but you don’t have to read that book first. I do plan on reading it though because I want to read more about the characters I’ve become quite attached to.
The cast of characters are an eclectic group that work together (except for the bad guys) to find the truth.
The main character is female impersonator, Helena Handbasket, who is the executive director of the Staunton Trust. She is getting ready for the opening of the Staunton Museum when she discovers a group of paintings by famous local artist, Mavis Chandry, have been vandalized.
This is just the beginning of a series of events that include art theft and murder with Helena being treated as the prime suspect.
Helena and her community of family and friends work together to find out the connections as they try to keep each other safe.
THE HOMEPORT JOURNALS is the first book in this series set in Provincetown, but you don’t have to read that book first. I do plan on reading it though because I want to read more about the characters I’ve become quite attached to.
June 6, 2023
This is the second book in the HomePort Chronicles but it can be read as a standalone. The writing style was a little different so it took some time to get into the story but once the two crimes connected it flowed nicely. I loved the cast of characters and how they felt like a family who were always there for one another. Helena’s disguise’s and conversations while undercover brought a light humor to the story. If felt like there was always something happening and I enjoyed how Helena starting putting certain pieces together. The mystery had a sense of a cozy mystery but just when you think the case is solved another twist happened and the story continued. The friendships formed and lessons learned added with a beautiful setting made for a good read.
Thank you @acburchauthor and @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
Thank you @acburchauthor and @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.
June 8, 2023
How could you not love a character named Helena Handbasket?! This fabulous character stole the show for me. This was a really entertaining read and I loved the mix of quirky characters, mystery, art, small town dynamics and so much more!
February 6, 2023
Distance Between Us by A. C. Burch
List of characters and a bit about each one.
Starts with CJ and she's investigating the artist hut. She was to meet Mavis there and discuss the art show.
Story then goes to the investiation of the vandalism at the museum...
Love the tips along the way about which side of ship is port.
Familiar with the area of the cape that the bok is set in. So much to it, diverse landscape.
Love tip about what to do before you leave the house, sounds good to me!
Mavis and Helena find CJs body and if it's linked to the museum vandalism...
Colorful characters and love the hidden gems around the town. Have vistied many of the lcoations but not dirt road on the dunes to the ariport.
Received this review copy from Book Sirens and this is my honest opinion.
List of characters and a bit about each one.
Starts with CJ and she's investigating the artist hut. She was to meet Mavis there and discuss the art show.
Story then goes to the investiation of the vandalism at the museum...
Love the tips along the way about which side of ship is port.
Familiar with the area of the cape that the bok is set in. So much to it, diverse landscape.
Love tip about what to do before you leave the house, sounds good to me!
Mavis and Helena find CJs body and if it's linked to the museum vandalism...
Colorful characters and love the hidden gems around the town. Have vistied many of the lcoations but not dirt road on the dunes to the ariport.
Received this review copy from Book Sirens and this is my honest opinion.
May 12, 2023
This novel, a sequel to The Homeport Journals, shows a maturing voice on the part of the author and a great deal of self-deprecating humor and growth on the part of the characters, always something wonderful to see. (Too many sequels drag the same issues along and might as well simply have been an addendum.) This is the Provincetown of today, poised between past and future, welcoming to the many "washashores" who find a home at land's end where the earth stops and the ocean takes over. Burch clearly cares for these people and, through him, the reader cares for them as well. And it is, simply put, a great read.
Difficult to characterize, The Distance Between Us has elements of mystery, of literary fiction, and of destination fiction, but ends up transcending them all. An entertaining and riveting plot with a couple of unexpected twists, a cast of quirky, interesting, and endearing characters, and technique that moves the story along while pausing to appreciate the world the characters inhabit all combine to make this a novel you will read and re-read for years to come.
Difficult to characterize, The Distance Between Us has elements of mystery, of literary fiction, and of destination fiction, but ends up transcending them all. An entertaining and riveting plot with a couple of unexpected twists, a cast of quirky, interesting, and endearing characters, and technique that moves the story along while pausing to appreciate the world the characters inhabit all combine to make this a novel you will read and re-read for years to come.
June 16, 2023
𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐃 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔
👀 love a murder mystery
👥 enjoy multiple characters
🎤 like to sing
🔪 have ever been falsely accused of something
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
The suspicious death of an elderly widow on the grounds of the HomePort Estate sends shock waves through the seaside resort of Provincetown.
Wrongly accused of the murder, beloved entertainer Helena Handbasket forsakes her oceanside mansion and goes undercover to track down those responsible. Aided by her chosen family, she uses her comic genius and extraordinary talent for impersonation to navigate a maze of deception and greed that includes a museum break-in, thefts of iconic artwork, and some shady liaisons. As the investigation gains momentum, the past increasingly influences the present, exposing hidden secrets and imperiling Helena’s well-heeled existence.
Set amid Cape Cod’s natural beauty and vibrant summer season, this captivating sequel to The HomePort Journals unfolds against the backdrop of a small town struggling to balance its newfound celebrity with a cherished way of life.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was a fun book that explores a lot of different themes. Helena Handbasket, a drag Queen with a penchant for solving mysteries, was so fun to read about. She was a great character with a lot of wit and funny lines! The mixture of art and a small town setting really appealed to my tastes as well! Definitely pick this one up if you enjoy cozy mysteries. Now I need to read book one in the series!
👀 love a murder mystery
👥 enjoy multiple characters
🎤 like to sing
🔪 have ever been falsely accused of something
• 𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐈𝐓’𝐒 𝐀𝐁𝐎𝐔𝐓
The suspicious death of an elderly widow on the grounds of the HomePort Estate sends shock waves through the seaside resort of Provincetown.
Wrongly accused of the murder, beloved entertainer Helena Handbasket forsakes her oceanside mansion and goes undercover to track down those responsible. Aided by her chosen family, she uses her comic genius and extraordinary talent for impersonation to navigate a maze of deception and greed that includes a museum break-in, thefts of iconic artwork, and some shady liaisons. As the investigation gains momentum, the past increasingly influences the present, exposing hidden secrets and imperiling Helena’s well-heeled existence.
Set amid Cape Cod’s natural beauty and vibrant summer season, this captivating sequel to The HomePort Journals unfolds against the backdrop of a small town struggling to balance its newfound celebrity with a cherished way of life.
• 𝐌𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒
This was a fun book that explores a lot of different themes. Helena Handbasket, a drag Queen with a penchant for solving mysteries, was so fun to read about. She was a great character with a lot of wit and funny lines! The mixture of art and a small town setting really appealed to my tastes as well! Definitely pick this one up if you enjoy cozy mysteries. Now I need to read book one in the series!
July 19, 2023
The Distance Between Us is so much more than a well-done LGBTQ mystery, though it's that. But it's also a lyrical elegy to a traditional art and fishing community whose close-knit locals fight the steady gentrification of their beloved historic town as they are slowly pushed aside, even driven out, by very wealthy outsiders. Especially the big city people who want to buy and flip property. And the novel is yet more: it's a testament to the power of love, connection, and the creativity, inner strength, and loyalty of drag performers. Not only does the novel reveal how gentrification affects the residents of a small community like Provincetown, traditionally an exceptionally open and accepting environment for the LGBTQ+ community, the depictions of the characters are themselves a repudiation of the recent rise of hatred and fear in certain areas of the United States. As a delightful side benefit, they offer moments of real humor.
This is a novel for readers who want more out of a mystery than a "whodunit." This is a novel with substance.
There's a rich and helpful list of characters and their roles at the beginning, as well as several beautifully drawn maps showing where things take place. Don't miss those, and do pay attention to the Author's Note at the end. It's really worth reading.
This is a novel for readers who want more out of a mystery than a "whodunit." This is a novel with substance.
There's a rich and helpful list of characters and their roles at the beginning, as well as several beautifully drawn maps showing where things take place. Don't miss those, and do pay attention to the Author's Note at the end. It's really worth reading.
May 7, 2023
I every much enjoyed the author's The HomePort Journals and was looking forward to this sequel. I gave the book three stars because of the author's noble intentions concering preserving P'town's affordability and artistic community and the heart with which the novel is written--and my love of P'town which I have visited every summer for the past 20 years.
The redoubtable central character, the female impersonator, Helena Handbasket, survives all through wit and pluck. She solves two murders and an international art theft conspiracy, performs impeccable drag, has a gorgeous singing voice, is a loyal friend and is beloved and admired by all--except for the bad guys. Along the way she deftly handles a corrupt policeman, smarmy developers, and a distant husband. She truly is a force of nature and we do root for her.
That said, the book is just too much: too long, too preachy, too many characters (the need for so many character descriptions at the top was a harbinger), a too-convoluted plot, too many endings, and worst of all, too much telling rather then showing. There are lengthy discussions related to the crimes and not much action. Better editing and greater simplicity of plot would have helped a great deal.
Still, a pleasant return to P'town.
The redoubtable central character, the female impersonator, Helena Handbasket, survives all through wit and pluck. She solves two murders and an international art theft conspiracy, performs impeccable drag, has a gorgeous singing voice, is a loyal friend and is beloved and admired by all--except for the bad guys. Along the way she deftly handles a corrupt policeman, smarmy developers, and a distant husband. She truly is a force of nature and we do root for her.
That said, the book is just too much: too long, too preachy, too many characters (the need for so many character descriptions at the top was a harbinger), a too-convoluted plot, too many endings, and worst of all, too much telling rather then showing. There are lengthy discussions related to the crimes and not much action. Better editing and greater simplicity of plot would have helped a great deal.
Still, a pleasant return to P'town.
April 24, 2023
"Small town living is a commitment—not an entitlement."
This rollicking crime thriller, a sequel to Burch’s award-winning debut novel, The Homeport Journals, is also set in Provincetown, on the tip of Cape Cod. Helena Handbasket, a much-loved female impersonator, heads the local art museum but must go underground while sorting out an intricate murder plot and art theft conspiracy that touches many lives in the art-centered community. This literary-leaning novel is character and setting-driven rather than plot-driven, so readers can expect a slower delivery than is normal for the mystery genre. But in this case, page-turning speed is overrated, and Burch fans will revel in his extensive knowledge of Provincetown and the well-developed, rainbow cast of characters who carry the story forward with feisty humor and many unexpected plot twists. Though marketed as an LGBTQ novel, the tale’s pathos and heartfelt communal spirit will endear Helena, Butch (Helena's spouse), and Helena’s many friends and associates to mainstream readers as well . . .
Read more at The US Review of Books!
https://www.theusreview.com/reviews-1...
This rollicking crime thriller, a sequel to Burch’s award-winning debut novel, The Homeport Journals, is also set in Provincetown, on the tip of Cape Cod. Helena Handbasket, a much-loved female impersonator, heads the local art museum but must go underground while sorting out an intricate murder plot and art theft conspiracy that touches many lives in the art-centered community. This literary-leaning novel is character and setting-driven rather than plot-driven, so readers can expect a slower delivery than is normal for the mystery genre. But in this case, page-turning speed is overrated, and Burch fans will revel in his extensive knowledge of Provincetown and the well-developed, rainbow cast of characters who carry the story forward with feisty humor and many unexpected plot twists. Though marketed as an LGBTQ novel, the tale’s pathos and heartfelt communal spirit will endear Helena, Butch (Helena's spouse), and Helena’s many friends and associates to mainstream readers as well . . .
Read more at The US Review of Books!
https://www.theusreview.com/reviews-1...
June 9, 2023
This book takes place a few years after The Home Port Journals. Helena Handbasket has inherited the Staunton fortune and is the director of the estate’s new art museum. A murder rocks their seaside community and Helena finds herself the prime suspect. Art thieves are rampant in this community and the Home Port “gang” teams up to find who is responsible.
Helena lives her life in drag and is one of the most interesting characters I have read about in a long while. Her wit, confidence and flamboyance left me always wanting more. The side characters are all interesting and eccentric and I love the author’s depiction of ones such as Big Bird, Tin Man and the “Onion Rings.” From the boat stunt to the secret meetings in the trees of the golf course, this book has an inordinate number of goings on, but is highly entertaining!
Such great LGBTQ+ representation!
Helena lives her life in drag and is one of the most interesting characters I have read about in a long while. Her wit, confidence and flamboyance left me always wanting more. The side characters are all interesting and eccentric and I love the author’s depiction of ones such as Big Bird, Tin Man and the “Onion Rings.” From the boat stunt to the secret meetings in the trees of the golf course, this book has an inordinate number of goings on, but is highly entertaining!
Such great LGBTQ+ representation!
May 3, 2023
The novel involved a complicated and twisted plot involving art theft, over development, murder and mayhem and the team centred around a drag queen come detective . Our drag queen detective shows great intelligence and insight -with a lot of disguises - to solve the crimes.
Whilst I didn’t connect to characters or situation I had a great appreciation for how characters were revealed to the readers.
Many issues are discussed in the novel, struggling artists, city people driving out locals, difficulties of being an artist, transphobia and homophobia and despite this novel is full of warm and interesting characters an interesting discussion of post covid times
Whilst I didn’t connect to characters or situation I had a great appreciation for how characters were revealed to the readers.
Many issues are discussed in the novel, struggling artists, city people driving out locals, difficulties of being an artist, transphobia and homophobia and despite this novel is full of warm and interesting characters an interesting discussion of post covid times
June 9, 2023
I was utterly charmed by this story and the lovely descriptions of the setting. I haven't been to Cape Cod since I was a child, but this book brought back memories of the beauty and history of the area. There are maps in the beginning of the book (always a hit with me) along with descriptions of the characters. They are unique, quirky, and so much fun, and I loved every minute spent in this engaging mystery with them. I haven't read the first book in the series, but this novel reads fine as a standalone and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2023
I loved this small seaside community that is rocked by murder! And the eclectic and endearing cast makes this a fun, although a bit long, read. I especially enjoyed Helena Handbasket, a female impersonator who decides to do some investigation. I appreciated the running inner monologue too.
This had a “cozy mystery” feel to me with all the humor, stolen art, and tension between the townies and the washashores. It’s a great book to spend time with.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @acburchauthor for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
This had a “cozy mystery” feel to me with all the humor, stolen art, and tension between the townies and the washashores. It’s a great book to spend time with.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @acburchauthor for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
April 1, 2023
Taking place in one of my favorite places, Cape Cod. An elderly widow's death at the Homeport Estates leaves Helena an impersonator wrongfully accused. The investigation leads to theft, secrets, shady deals and characters. There is a lot that happens in this mystery.This was an enjoyable slow burn that packs a big punch. I loved the setting and the witty colorful characters.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
May 21, 2023
The Distance Between Us is the second Book in the Home Port Chronicles.
I love the setting of Provincetown, which I have visited many times.
I love the characters so much. Especially Helena Handbasket , a female impersonator.
I love everything about Helena, so fierce and determined.
This book has a bit of everything, mystery, literary fiction and a great setting.
A fantastic read that I really enjoyed!
I love the setting of Provincetown, which I have visited many times.
I love the characters so much. Especially Helena Handbasket , a female impersonator.
I love everything about Helena, so fierce and determined.
This book has a bit of everything, mystery, literary fiction and a great setting.
A fantastic read that I really enjoyed!
April 13, 2023
Can we take a moment to admire this cover? I have it facing out on my shelves because I love it so much!
Are you ready for a summer mystery set in Cape Cod? With an impersonator and an investigation and hidden secrets that will keep you on the very edge of your seat? This book was amazing!! Definitely recommend for your summer reading!
Are you ready for a summer mystery set in Cape Cod? With an impersonator and an investigation and hidden secrets that will keep you on the very edge of your seat? This book was amazing!! Definitely recommend for your summer reading!
June 15, 2023
𝘛𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨!
I love a good murder mystery, and when you add to it a beautiful setting, a fun plot, lots of twists and likeable characters you can’t go wrong. A unique and engaging read.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗨𝘀 by A. C. Burch released May 16, 2023.
https://www.instagram.com/booksandcof...
I love a good murder mystery, and when you add to it a beautiful setting, a fun plot, lots of twists and likeable characters you can’t go wrong. A unique and engaging read.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗨𝘀 by A. C. Burch released May 16, 2023.
https://www.instagram.com/booksandcof...
March 14, 2023
It was good!! It was kinda slow to start. But once you dove deep into the mystery it got better!!
June 15, 2024
Great local color and flavor. Not great on other fronts. And in dire need of an editor. Might have been okay if 100 pages were cut, but the writing wasn't there, alas, either.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews