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Talba Wallis #2
Louisiana Bigshot
A Talba Wallis Novel
By night the glamorous Baroness de Pontalba, by day New Orleans’ hippest P.I., Talba Wallis is dumbfounded when she can’t do a simple background check on an old friend—Babalu Maya just doesn’t seem to exist on paper. Four days later, she doesn’t exist at all.
As Talba threads her way backward through Babalu’s short, difficult life, she finds an intricate pattern of violence and fear, and a shadowy Mr. Big with homicidal intent. Talba butts right into everybody’s business in Clayton, Louisiana, a small town with a big, ugly secret, where being black, mouthy, and smart are the three qualities most likely to get her killed. As she uncovers dark truths, events and people spiral into nasty motion in a story that has more twists and turns than the Mississippi River.
By night the glamorous Baroness de Pontalba, by day New Orleans’ hippest P.I., Talba Wallis is dumbfounded when she can’t do a simple background check on an old friend—Babalu Maya just doesn’t seem to exist on paper. Four days later, she doesn’t exist at all.
As Talba threads her way backward through Babalu’s short, difficult life, she finds an intricate pattern of violence and fear, and a shadowy Mr. Big with homicidal intent. Talba butts right into everybody’s business in Clayton, Louisiana, a small town with a big, ugly secret, where being black, mouthy, and smart are the three qualities most likely to get her killed. As she uncovers dark truths, events and people spiral into nasty motion in a story that has more twists and turns than the Mississippi River.
320 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 7, 2002
1198 people are currently reading
1597 people want to read
About the author
Julie Smith
259 books403 followersAuthor of 20 mystery novels and a YA paranormal adventure called BAD GIRL SCHOOL (formerly CURSEBUSTERS!). Nine of the mysteries are about a female New Orleans cop Skip Langdon, five about a San Francisco lawyer named Rebecca Schwartz,two about a struggling mystery writer named Paul Mcdonald (whose fate no one should suffer) and four teaming up Talba Wallis, a private eye with many names, a poetic license, and a smoking computer, with veteran P.I. Eddie Valentino.
In Bad GIRL SCHOOL, a psychic pink-haired teen-age burglar named Reeno gets recruited by a psychotic telepathic cat to pull a job that involves time travel to an ancient Mayan city. Hint:It HAS to be done before 2012!
Winner of the 1991 Edgar Allen Poe Award for best novel, that being NEW ORLEANS MOURNING.
Former reporter for the New Orleans TIMES-PICAYUNE and the San Francisco CHRONICLE.
Recently licensed private investigator, and thereon hangs a tale.
Resident of New Orleans, Louisiana
In Bad GIRL SCHOOL, a psychic pink-haired teen-age burglar named Reeno gets recruited by a psychotic telepathic cat to pull a job that involves time travel to an ancient Mayan city. Hint:It HAS to be done before 2012!
Winner of the 1991 Edgar Allen Poe Award for best novel, that being NEW ORLEANS MOURNING.
Former reporter for the New Orleans TIMES-PICAYUNE and the San Francisco CHRONICLE.
Recently licensed private investigator, and thereon hangs a tale.
Resident of New Orleans, Louisiana
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
March 11, 2014
Fat hate, including "well obviously they're fat because of x", in the first five pages. Repeatedly. And trying to make the fat person sound ignorant. And "what is a fat person doing in THIS kind of job?" Etc. and so on. NOPE.
March 13, 2014
Being British it’s sometimes difficult to get into the detail of American books – the language and cultural differences, never mind details of places. However, the writing in this book brings out the depth and complexity of the main character Talba Wallis even to us English. From TV we've a reasonable understanding of the workings of the US police system and Private Investigators, sufficient to know Talba, as one half of a detective duo, is pretty hot to use the vernacular. As with any fiction writer it’s necessary to inflate your characters but Julie Smith does so in a way that still has a degree of believability – and that’s the difficult thing to achieve. The relationship between Talba and her boss, Eddie is excellent; and the learning curve that Talba goes through to become a seasoned PI is fascinating since she makes some pretty dangerous decisions. Good series.
February 19, 2017
I wasn't going to write a review for this book because I didn't finish it. Quite frankly, it was a struggle to make it halfway through Chapter 4. The story line was okay, but I couldn't get past the racial innuendos. Every single character was identified as to whether they were black or white. Why? What difference does that make? I don't care if the character is black, white, purple or green! When the main character said that she chose her name because she wanted to steal something from a white person, I ripped the earplugs out of my ears and deleted my Audible version of this book off my phone.
This review will not be posted on my blog page because... like I said... I couldn't finish reading the book. I'm only posting it here because I feel like readers should know how racial this book is before they purchase it. This may not bother everyone, but it bothered me. Just my opinion.
This review will not be posted on my blog page because... like I said... I couldn't finish reading the book. I'm only posting it here because I feel like readers should know how racial this book is before they purchase it. This may not bother everyone, but it bothered me. Just my opinion.
November 11, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It’s a murder mystery with a complex plot. The protagonist, Talba, is a quick thinking, hard working young PI with every day, ordinary family problems who is working to prove that her friend did NOT commit suicide. The story is full of action, dry humor, affection and fast talking.
February 25, 2017
I've found a new favorite woman's mystery author! A smart, sassy female detective AND a good story! I can't wait until the next one!
March 17, 2017
This is the second book in a series. I didn't read the first. It seemed to me like this was a beginning- of- a- series book. The story is set in modern New Orleans and our narrator is Talba Wallis, new private detective. She is learning the ropes and makes lots of mistakes. I like her character and would read another installment.
April 7, 2021
These two characters, Talba and Eddie, took some getting used to. Their language was strange and their relationship seemed impossible. Now in this second Talba Wallis book, there is real chemistry and their banter is more good-natured instead of being hostile. This made reading the story much more enjoyable than the first book. I'm glad I dove into the second book right away, so I could see the relationship blossom. Now I can hardly wait to begin book 3.
This story is very personal for Talba when a dear friend is killed. The official verdict is suicide, but Talba and a few others believe she was murdered. When Talba begins to investigate, she finds a gruesome story precedes this one and turns out to be the basis for her friend's murder. In spite of obstacles and racial hatred, Talba perseveres and Eddie turns out to be a great asset...of course. They combine their skills to solve both cases (the current one and the one that's 15 years old), but the end result is not totally satisfying. I think the reader will be very satisfied, however, when more of Talba's personality emerges and sets the stage for the next mystery.
This story is very personal for Talba when a dear friend is killed. The official verdict is suicide, but Talba and a few others believe she was murdered. When Talba begins to investigate, she finds a gruesome story precedes this one and turns out to be the basis for her friend's murder. In spite of obstacles and racial hatred, Talba perseveres and Eddie turns out to be a great asset...of course. They combine their skills to solve both cases (the current one and the one that's 15 years old), but the end result is not totally satisfying. I think the reader will be very satisfied, however, when more of Talba's personality emerges and sets the stage for the next mystery.
December 10, 2017
I honestly couldn’t get into this. I thought I would love it and it would be the beginning of another favorite series for me. The plot sounded good, and it was a female PI, but 40% in and I just can’t, I can’t keep going! There is nothing in this book to draw me in or make me want to keep reading. It isn’t even an easy read for a plane or something. It takes work to read this because it is so dry and boring.
May 4, 2018
Couldn't get into it
I couldn't get into this book at all. I tried to, but I just couldn't read anymore. I only made it about 30 pages before I had to call it quits. The story is slow and tedious. The writing is boring and confusing. Maybe it gets better, but I guess I will never know.
I couldn't get into this book at all. I tried to, but I just couldn't read anymore. I only made it about 30 pages before I had to call it quits. The story is slow and tedious. The writing is boring and confusing. Maybe it gets better, but I guess I will never know.
June 27, 2014
Very enjoyable read! First time I have read this author,but not the last.
September 26, 2021
This story is told from the perspective of a young woman of color who is a poet/PI. Unlike some of the reviewers, I totally appreciated the racial sensitivity and nuance throughout the book. Some suggested "use my imagination", but my imagination would not have revealed the same story that the writer's imagination revealed. I was actually brought to tears when Talba was arrested for DWB. I loved the character development, I loved the flawed characters, I loved the family dynamics, and the plot was twisty and satisfying. I think this author did a terrific and insightful job, and I look forward to the next adventure.
January 13, 2018
I really like Talba and Eddie’s relationship. He’s an old, tough white investigator who has seen it all, and she’s a young, intelligent black woman who becomes his assistant PI. They have a special bond, and while she sometimes drives him crazy, he also feels very protective and fatherly towards her. In this book, one of Talba’s friends dies under mysterious circumstances, and the more they find out, the deeper the mystery seems to go. Set in and around New Orleans, the author uses the setting to add flair and interest to the story. Can’t wait to read more!
August 28, 2018
Makes you stop and think
This book made me stop and think about my own life. I have completed both book 1 and 2 of this series and can't wait to start the next one. Julie Smith writes beautifully and definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat. Her characters are so believable and colorful as is the story line. If you want to try something different something that will get you thinking long after you are finished the book, please pick up the Louisiana Bigshot
series. I am so glad I did. Thank you Julie Smith, I think you are incredible.
This book made me stop and think about my own life. I have completed both book 1 and 2 of this series and can't wait to start the next one. Julie Smith writes beautifully and definitely keeps you on the edge of your seat. Her characters are so believable and colorful as is the story line. If you want to try something different something that will get you thinking long after you are finished the book, please pick up the Louisiana Bigshot
series. I am so glad I did. Thank you Julie Smith, I think you are incredible.
July 15, 2019
Meh could have been better
It took the first 80 percent of the book to tell me nothing. The last 20 percent was where the story really unfolded and the characters really took shape and became interesting. It took 3 months just to get through it. The characters (including the heroine) were completely uninteresting. The author's attempt to add mystery to their backstory made them less interesting and forgettable. There was no page turning anxiety or tension created until that last 20 percent. I've already invested enough time I'm done.
It took the first 80 percent of the book to tell me nothing. The last 20 percent was where the story really unfolded and the characters really took shape and became interesting. It took 3 months just to get through it. The characters (including the heroine) were completely uninteresting. The author's attempt to add mystery to their backstory made them less interesting and forgettable. There was no page turning anxiety or tension created until that last 20 percent. I've already invested enough time I'm done.
September 24, 2019
Can she do it?
Can PI Talba Wallis prove her friend was murdered? It starts as a case of finding out if her friend's fiance is cheating. When the friend turns up dead, and the cops call it a suicide, it's up to Talba and her boss Eddie to prove otherwise. They uncover a conspiracy of something that had happened to her back in school. But what is it? Why is her hometown covering it up? Will Talba and Eddie discover the truth? Or will they be killed, too? Read it, and find out. You'll be glad you did,!
Can PI Talba Wallis prove her friend was murdered? It starts as a case of finding out if her friend's fiance is cheating. When the friend turns up dead, and the cops call it a suicide, it's up to Talba and her boss Eddie to prove otherwise. They uncover a conspiracy of something that had happened to her back in school. But what is it? Why is her hometown covering it up? Will Talba and Eddie discover the truth? Or will they be killed, too? Read it, and find out. You'll be glad you did,!
June 4, 2018
The colorful Talba Wallis and her mentor and boss Eddie Valentino take on some heavy hitters
in Louisiana and solve recent murders and a long ago crime. The private investigators believe in using whatever means necessary to find solutions for their clients. The book also deals with their family lives and complicated relationships. An interesting and fast paced read full of New Orleans atmosphere.
in Louisiana and solve recent murders and a long ago crime. The private investigators believe in using whatever means necessary to find solutions for their clients. The book also deals with their family lives and complicated relationships. An interesting and fast paced read full of New Orleans atmosphere.
January 19, 2019
Culture oozes through
Julie Smith lets me peek into a world, a culture, that is different from mine......and yet the same. Talba is a self aware young black woman, and yet she's any girl coming of age. I like her. And the stories flow, weaving lives together.
I'm not sure why they put the word 'humorous' in the descriptive title. If one has the capacity to laugh at oneself, then the word 'challenging' is more appropriate.
Julie Smith lets me peek into a world, a culture, that is different from mine......and yet the same. Talba is a self aware young black woman, and yet she's any girl coming of age. I like her. And the stories flow, weaving lives together.
I'm not sure why they put the word 'humorous' in the descriptive title. If one has the capacity to laugh at oneself, then the word 'challenging' is more appropriate.
May 26, 2019
In Louisiana Bigshot, Talba Willis, is an PI in New Orleans. Her best friend Clayton is found dead, but she and her supervisor-friend Eddie don’t believe that she committed suicide. A series of events unfold, the bodies multiply every time they ‘shake the tail of the dragon,”the plot thickens. Somehow, Talba and Eddie stumble to connect the dots as the magical fingers point back to Clayton’s wealthy family.
April 13, 2021
Never again
This is the most racist book I have ever read. I'm talking about the PI, Talba, or maybe the author is the racist. On top of that, she not only makes black people sound stupid, she make New Orleans people sound stupid. I am absolutely mortified that anyone could get away with such racism in writing in today's environment. As a black person or a New Orleans native, I would be very angry.
This is the most racist book I have ever read. I'm talking about the PI, Talba, or maybe the author is the racist. On top of that, she not only makes black people sound stupid, she make New Orleans people sound stupid. I am absolutely mortified that anyone could get away with such racism in writing in today's environment. As a black person or a New Orleans native, I would be very angry.
October 4, 2022
This is one twisted story and it really had me going. I can understand not getting along with your family but to hate someone so much that they’re willing to kill them and kill anyone who associates with them, is really high stakes. I can’t even understand people like that, the motivation behind hating your own daughter and treating her so badly that all she wants to do is run away from you. I look forward to the next book.
October 28, 2023
I liked the first book a lot, and think the author is a good writer. This book, however, crammed too many things into too short a timeframe, leaving my head swirling. Also, although I appreciate the author trying to catch vernacular speech, it sure is hard to read! Like Uncle Remus from the old days. I thought there was an over-emphasis on color here, but I'm not black and can only imagine a world where white people always seem to win. Anyway, an interesting, if unexpected, plot.
July 22, 2024
So glad I found Julie Smith. I really like Talba Wallis aka the Baroness de Pontalba. Talba is a poet by night and PI by day. She works for Eddie Valentino a hard headed old white man. Talba being a black woman had to win Eddie over with her computer skills. They have formed a nice friendship always going the extra mile for the other including jail time and worse. It's hot in Louisiana and Talba finds her friend Babalu has taken her own life or did she? Eddie and Talba will find the answer.
July 11, 2017
Julie Smith and Talba
I have read more than a few of Me. Smith's books, and have enjoyed each and every one. I especially like Skip, but Talba has a great deal of charm. If you like a mystery with a strong narrative thread, interesting characters, and a believable plot, get acquainted with Ms. SMith's books.
I have read more than a few of Me. Smith's books, and have enjoyed each and every one. I especially like Skip, but Talba has a great deal of charm. If you like a mystery with a strong narrative thread, interesting characters, and a believable plot, get acquainted with Ms. SMith's books.
September 13, 2017
Not bad at all! I enjoyed this book a little more than the first one in the series. It seemed a little more thought went into this one. Looking forward to the next one!
But, while I have enjoyed the stories in both books, the so called poetry is terrible. Just my opinion, and I've never been a fan of poetry anyway but...not a fan of Talba's poems.
But, while I have enjoyed the stories in both books, the so called poetry is terrible. Just my opinion, and I've never been a fan of poetry anyway but...not a fan of Talba's poems.
September 16, 2017
Excellent
"To everyone there is a season, a time to live and a time to die." Woven throughout this story is this one sentence. A well written story weaving past with present. How a crime in the past affected so many in the present. And how racism in the past still unfortunately resides in the presence.
"To everyone there is a season, a time to live and a time to die." Woven throughout this story is this one sentence. A well written story weaving past with present. How a crime in the past affected so many in the present. And how racism in the past still unfortunately resides in the presence.
October 22, 2017
Talba rocks
I like the what she thinks. She's smart and sassy. Great combo . It's very interesting to see behind the eyes of the main characters. Makes them more real. I like the fact that the end of the stories aren't always neat and pat but there is some resolution. Not all bad people get what they deserve but maybe, down the line, they do. Who knows?
I like the what she thinks. She's smart and sassy. Great combo . It's very interesting to see behind the eyes of the main characters. Makes them more real. I like the fact that the end of the stories aren't always neat and pat but there is some resolution. Not all bad people get what they deserve but maybe, down the line, they do. Who knows?
February 23, 2018
Well written, entertaining, serious Mystery
This is the first Julie Smith book that I've read. It was very well written and the mystery itself was for more serious and life-threatening for the characters than any other mystery that I've read that was called Cozy mystery. Great characters solid plot and very well written.
This is the first Julie Smith book that I've read. It was very well written and the mystery itself was for more serious and life-threatening for the characters than any other mystery that I've read that was called Cozy mystery. Great characters solid plot and very well written.
July 6, 2019
Another great story, I love this author!
A deep conspiracy, several murders and continuing personal issues keep Talba Wallis busy and searching for answers. I love this series, and Ms Harris' complex and entertaining style of writing. The dialogue and plot move quickly, and the story builds to an unexpected ending. Well done!
A deep conspiracy, several murders and continuing personal issues keep Talba Wallis busy and searching for answers. I love this series, and Ms Harris' complex and entertaining style of writing. The dialogue and plot move quickly, and the story builds to an unexpected ending. Well done!
September 30, 2019
Big Shot
Excellent book. Great story. Very entertaining. Having read the hot tin roof one can see how Talba has grown and it's interesting. Some scary parts. Surprises abound and suspense is good. Begin to think you know only to find yourself up the wrong tree. I enjoyed it very much and highly recommend it.
Excellent book. Great story. Very entertaining. Having read the hot tin roof one can see how Talba has grown and it's interesting. Some scary parts. Surprises abound and suspense is good. Begin to think you know only to find yourself up the wrong tree. I enjoyed it very much and highly recommend it.
November 12, 2019
Remarkable
Absolutely worth five stars. Phenomenal story line. I love a book that is so well written it pulls the reader in. Humorous don't do it justice. I found it belly laughing funny. I enjoy how the author slips in a little history, culture and a real life look at racism. Eddie and The Baroness play off each other perfectly.
Absolutely worth five stars. Phenomenal story line. I love a book that is so well written it pulls the reader in. Humorous don't do it justice. I found it belly laughing funny. I enjoy how the author slips in a little history, culture and a real life look at racism. Eddie and The Baroness play off each other perfectly.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews