What do you think?
Rate this book
"Sister" Jane #15
Lost & Hound
When a body is found curiously displayed on “Sister” Jane Arnold’s foxhunting grounds, members of her hunt club realize someone is sending them a dire message, in this exciting mystery from New York Times bestselling author Rita Mae Brown.
Early fall in Virginia means shorter days, cooler temperatures, the blooming milkweeds of summer giving way to fields of fluffy seeds—and of course, the start of fox hunting season. It’s “Sister” Jane Arnold’s favorite time of year. And this year, the Jefferson Hunt Club is busier than ever, organizing a fundraising drive to help with the upkeep of their beloved hunting grounds.
But the festive season is interrupted by the appearance of a dead body, tied to a chair and placed directly in the path of an early-season hunt. No one recognizes the victim, but the intentional placement makes it clear that someone is sending a message. Then, one huntsman’s valuable stamp collection is stolen, and they discover the victim was also a stamp collector. Sister suspects a connection, which is confirmed when just one stamp is found taped to the garage door of her friend and treasurer of the hunt club Ronnie Haslip. Could Ronnie have been involved in either the murder or the theft, or has he been marked as the next victim? Sister must uncover who has been sending these cryptic signs to her friends—before any of them wind up dead.
Early fall in Virginia means shorter days, cooler temperatures, the blooming milkweeds of summer giving way to fields of fluffy seeds—and of course, the start of fox hunting season. It’s “Sister” Jane Arnold’s favorite time of year. And this year, the Jefferson Hunt Club is busier than ever, organizing a fundraising drive to help with the upkeep of their beloved hunting grounds.
But the festive season is interrupted by the appearance of a dead body, tied to a chair and placed directly in the path of an early-season hunt. No one recognizes the victim, but the intentional placement makes it clear that someone is sending a message. Then, one huntsman’s valuable stamp collection is stolen, and they discover the victim was also a stamp collector. Sister suspects a connection, which is confirmed when just one stamp is found taped to the garage door of her friend and treasurer of the hunt club Ronnie Haslip. Could Ronnie have been involved in either the murder or the theft, or has he been marked as the next victim? Sister must uncover who has been sending these cryptic signs to her friends—before any of them wind up dead.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published October 24, 2023
96 people are currently reading
6040 people want to read
About the author
Rita Mae Brown
144 books2,252 followersRita Mae Brown is a prolific American writer, most known for her mysteries and other novels (Rubyfruit Jungle). She is also an Emmy-nominated screenwriter.
Brown was born illegitimate in Hanover, Pennsylvania. She was raised by her biological mother's female cousin and the cousin's husband in York, Pennsylvania and later in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
Starting in the fall of 1962, Brown attended the University of Florida at Gainesville on a scholarship. In the spring of 1964, the administrators of the racially segregated university expelled her for participating in the civil rights movement. She subsequently enrolled at Broward Community College[3] with the hope of transferring eventually to a more tolerant four-year institution.
Between fall 1964 and 1969, she lived in New York City, sometimes homeless, while attending New York University[6] where she received a degree in Classics and English. Later,[when?] she received another degree in cinematography from the New York School of Visual Arts.[citation needed] Brown received a Ph.D. in literature from Union Institute & University in 1976 and holds a doctorate in political science from the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington, D.C.
Starting in 1973, Brown lived in the Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles. In 1977, she bought a farm in Charlottesville, Virginia where she still lives.[9] In 1982, a screenplay Brown wrote while living in Los Angeles, Sleepless Nights, was retitled The Slumber Party Massacre and given a limited release theatrically.
During Brown's spring 1964 semester at the University of Florida at Gainesville, she became active in the American Civil Rights Movement. Later in the 1960s, she participated in the anti-war movement, the feminist movement and the Gay Liberation movement.
Brown took an administrative position with the fledgling National Organization for Women, but resigned in January 1970 over Betty Friedan's anti-gay remarks and NOW's attempts to distance itself from lesbian organizations. She claims she played a leading role in the "Lavender Menace" zap of the Second Congress to Unite Women on May 1, 1970, which protested Friedan's remarks and the exclusion of lesbians from the women's movement.
In the early 1970s, she became a founding member of The Furies Collective, a lesbian feminist newspaper collective in Washington, DC, which held that heterosexuality was the root of all oppression.
Brown told Time magazine in 2008, "I don't believe in straight or gay. I really don't. I think we're all degrees of bisexual. There may be a few people on the extreme if it's a bell curve who really truly are gay or really truly are straight. Because nobody had ever said these things and used their real name, I suddenly became [in the late 1970s] the only lesbian in America."
Brown was born illegitimate in Hanover, Pennsylvania. She was raised by her biological mother's female cousin and the cousin's husband in York, Pennsylvania and later in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
Starting in the fall of 1962, Brown attended the University of Florida at Gainesville on a scholarship. In the spring of 1964, the administrators of the racially segregated university expelled her for participating in the civil rights movement. She subsequently enrolled at Broward Community College[3] with the hope of transferring eventually to a more tolerant four-year institution.
Between fall 1964 and 1969, she lived in New York City, sometimes homeless, while attending New York University[6] where she received a degree in Classics and English. Later,[when?] she received another degree in cinematography from the New York School of Visual Arts.[citation needed] Brown received a Ph.D. in literature from Union Institute & University in 1976 and holds a doctorate in political science from the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington, D.C.
Starting in 1973, Brown lived in the Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles. In 1977, she bought a farm in Charlottesville, Virginia where she still lives.[9] In 1982, a screenplay Brown wrote while living in Los Angeles, Sleepless Nights, was retitled The Slumber Party Massacre and given a limited release theatrically.
During Brown's spring 1964 semester at the University of Florida at Gainesville, she became active in the American Civil Rights Movement. Later in the 1960s, she participated in the anti-war movement, the feminist movement and the Gay Liberation movement.
Brown took an administrative position with the fledgling National Organization for Women, but resigned in January 1970 over Betty Friedan's anti-gay remarks and NOW's attempts to distance itself from lesbian organizations. She claims she played a leading role in the "Lavender Menace" zap of the Second Congress to Unite Women on May 1, 1970, which protested Friedan's remarks and the exclusion of lesbians from the women's movement.
In the early 1970s, she became a founding member of The Furies Collective, a lesbian feminist newspaper collective in Washington, DC, which held that heterosexuality was the root of all oppression.
Brown told Time magazine in 2008, "I don't believe in straight or gay. I really don't. I think we're all degrees of bisexual. There may be a few people on the extreme if it's a bell curve who really truly are gay or really truly are straight. Because nobody had ever said these things and used their real name, I suddenly became [in the late 1970s] the only lesbian in America."
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
October 29, 2023
Lost & Hound is the 15th book in the Sister Jane series. I have read this series from the beginning and always look forward to the next one when it comes out. I fox hunted for years and so enjoy the memories wlhen I read about their hunts. It takes place in Virginia. Jane Arnold (Sister) is the Master of Foxhounds with the Jefferson Hunt along with her husband, Gray Lorllard. Her best friend is Betty Franklin. There are so many others who make up the members of the hunt.
Coming home from church Sam Lorllard, Gray's brother, finds a dead body of a man tied to a chair. He is later identified as Timothy Snavely, President of Snavely Import and Exports. He calls police chief, Ben Sidel to report his findings.
Barry Harper reports that his stamp collection had some of his wildlife stamps stolen. later found in Edward Clark, Jr. one of the hunt member's horse trailer. Ben Sidel takes it and when going through them Barry finds all are there except the box turtle one which later is found taped to Ronnie Hasip's garage door. Ben is again called and takes possession of it. Later all the stamps are returned to Barry. Cameron Aldron owns an airplane service and went to college with Barry. All the hunt members are trying to figure out who would steal the stamps and involve members of the hunt. Ronnie Hasip is attacked in his garage and was badly injured. The only reason he was not killed was the UPS man was making a delivery and saw him on the floor of his garage and someone running away. Sister, Gray and Betty stay at the hospital hoping he will wake up. Ben has him under guard for his protection as they fear he will be attacked again.
I will leave the story for the reader to enjoy as there is too much going on to put on paper. The reader is left in suspense of who killed Timothy and attacked Ronnie until the end of the book. The reader will also learn about fox hunting.
I loved Sister's dogs Raleigh, a doberman, Rooster, a harrier bequested to Sister and her cat, Golliwag (Golly), all the fox hounds and foxes who all talk to each other. It adds to the story.
I so enjoy this series as well as another one of her series, Mrs. Murphy's mysteries. When either one of these comes out I will read it until it is finished. Can't wait until the next one.
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Books for this ARC.
Coming home from church Sam Lorllard, Gray's brother, finds a dead body of a man tied to a chair. He is later identified as Timothy Snavely, President of Snavely Import and Exports. He calls police chief, Ben Sidel to report his findings.
Barry Harper reports that his stamp collection had some of his wildlife stamps stolen. later found in Edward Clark, Jr. one of the hunt member's horse trailer. Ben Sidel takes it and when going through them Barry finds all are there except the box turtle one which later is found taped to Ronnie Hasip's garage door. Ben is again called and takes possession of it. Later all the stamps are returned to Barry. Cameron Aldron owns an airplane service and went to college with Barry. All the hunt members are trying to figure out who would steal the stamps and involve members of the hunt. Ronnie Hasip is attacked in his garage and was badly injured. The only reason he was not killed was the UPS man was making a delivery and saw him on the floor of his garage and someone running away. Sister, Gray and Betty stay at the hospital hoping he will wake up. Ben has him under guard for his protection as they fear he will be attacked again.
I will leave the story for the reader to enjoy as there is too much going on to put on paper. The reader is left in suspense of who killed Timothy and attacked Ronnie until the end of the book. The reader will also learn about fox hunting.
I loved Sister's dogs Raleigh, a doberman, Rooster, a harrier bequested to Sister and her cat, Golliwag (Golly), all the fox hounds and foxes who all talk to each other. It adds to the story.
I so enjoy this series as well as another one of her series, Mrs. Murphy's mysteries. When either one of these comes out I will read it until it is finished. Can't wait until the next one.
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Books for this ARC.
September 16, 2023
This is the fifteenth book in the "Sister" Jane series by Rita Mae Brown. I've read many of her books and always enjoy a little mystery with the fox hunting group.
Description:
Early fall in Virginia means shorter days, cooler temperatures, the blooming milkweeds of summer giving way to fields of fluffy seeds—and of course, the start of fox hunting season. It’s “Sister” Jane Arnold’s favorite time of year. And this year, the Jefferson Hunt Club is busier than ever, organizing a fundraising drive to help with the upkeep of their beloved hunting grounds.
But the festive season is interrupted by the appearance of a dead body, tied to a chair and placed directly in the path of an early-season hunt. No one recognizes the victim, but the intentional placement makes it clear that someone is sending a message. Then, one huntsman’s valuable stamp collection is stolen, and they discover the victim was also a stamp collector. Sister suspects a connection, which is confirmed when just one stamp is found taped to the garage door of her friend and treasurer of the hunt club Ronnie Haslip. Could Ronnie have been involved in either the murder or the theft, or has he been marked as the next victim? Sister must uncover who has been sending these cryptic signs to her friends—before any of them wind up dead.
My Thoughts:
I didn't enjoy this one as much as I have many of Rita Mae Brown's books. There just didn't seem to be much of story here. Yes, there is a mystery, but for some reason I just couldn't get into this one. I did enjoy, as always with her books, the animal characters interspersed thorughout the book. The first 10% of the book was a list of the characters with a description of each one. Unfortunately
by the time I get into the story I've forgotten who each character is and how they are related to the others in the book. Luckily there is enough description through the prose to fit everyone together. I enjoyed the friendship and camaraderie among the fox hunting group and how they always seem to be there for each other and truly care.
Thanks to Ballantine Books through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on October 24, 2023.
Description:
Early fall in Virginia means shorter days, cooler temperatures, the blooming milkweeds of summer giving way to fields of fluffy seeds—and of course, the start of fox hunting season. It’s “Sister” Jane Arnold’s favorite time of year. And this year, the Jefferson Hunt Club is busier than ever, organizing a fundraising drive to help with the upkeep of their beloved hunting grounds.
But the festive season is interrupted by the appearance of a dead body, tied to a chair and placed directly in the path of an early-season hunt. No one recognizes the victim, but the intentional placement makes it clear that someone is sending a message. Then, one huntsman’s valuable stamp collection is stolen, and they discover the victim was also a stamp collector. Sister suspects a connection, which is confirmed when just one stamp is found taped to the garage door of her friend and treasurer of the hunt club Ronnie Haslip. Could Ronnie have been involved in either the murder or the theft, or has he been marked as the next victim? Sister must uncover who has been sending these cryptic signs to her friends—before any of them wind up dead.
My Thoughts:
I didn't enjoy this one as much as I have many of Rita Mae Brown's books. There just didn't seem to be much of story here. Yes, there is a mystery, but for some reason I just couldn't get into this one. I did enjoy, as always with her books, the animal characters interspersed thorughout the book. The first 10% of the book was a list of the characters with a description of each one. Unfortunately
by the time I get into the story I've forgotten who each character is and how they are related to the others in the book. Luckily there is enough description through the prose to fit everyone together. I enjoyed the friendship and camaraderie among the fox hunting group and how they always seem to be there for each other and truly care.
Thanks to Ballantine Books through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on October 24, 2023.
February 7, 2024
I have been a fan of Rita Mae Brown for more years than I care to count. I categorize her stories as light reading and cozy mysteries. I love the Mrs.
Murphy books and have enjoyed the "Sister" Jane series as well, up until now. Lost and Found, the fifteenth in the series, seemed quickly thrown together and was so filled with information on esoteric topics that the story got lost. I struggled to get to the end. 2.5 stars
I received a drc from the publisher via NetGalley.
Murphy books and have enjoyed the "Sister" Jane series as well, up until now. Lost and Found, the fifteenth in the series, seemed quickly thrown together and was so filled with information on esoteric topics that the story got lost. I struggled to get to the end. 2.5 stars
I received a drc from the publisher via NetGalley.
February 28, 2024
Was browsing the new books as none of the ones I put on hold were ready yet and I happened upon this. I have read others in this series. A fun mishmash of fox hunting, close knit group of friends and murder. Here the murder definitely played like 16th fiddle and by the time it all came together all I wanted was another fox hunt.
3.5?
3.5?
July 19, 2024
Love the characters and descriptions of the beautiful Virginia countryside, all the animals and particularly the Fox Hunts. No Foxes are ever killed in this Sister Jane series. I am always surprised who the murderer ends up being which is always good sign for a murder mystery. The description of the Hunts were so good I thought I was riding with them. Great book especially if you ever wondered what it was like to Fox Hunt.
October 30, 2023
Rita Mae Brown is a master storyteller and a Master of Foxhounds as well. The protagonist of the Sister Jane series is “Sister” Jane Arnold, MFH. She is the Master who oversees a foxhunting club in North Carolina. As one learns by reading a book from this series, fox hunting is no longer a blood sport, it is all about the thrill of the chase, the joy of horseback riding and the comradery of the members. Even the foxes are as well cared for as the hounds and horses. The owners of all the fixtures, or estates that make up the hunt's territory know where all the dens are located and help put out food for the foxes.
Brown’s love of the sport shines through in all the beautiful descriptions of the territory and the thrilling action of the hunt that are a major part of all the books in this series. The author does a fantastic job of characterization. The recurring characters are well drawn and continue to develop throughout the series. In both this series and her Mrs. Murphy series, the animals are characters that are just as developed as the humans. The reader gets a taste of the conversations between the animals, and the bickering between the dogs and the foxes is quite enjoyable.
In this novel, the first hunt of the season is halted by increasing fog. Sister seems to sense something is out in the fog but shirks it off as fancy. Of course, it wasn’t. When a body is later found on display, it is obvious that it had been left for the hunt to find, had the fog not prevented the discovery. It seemed to have been a message for someone. Later, a member has his stamp collection stolen. Sister is convinced that the mysteries are somehow tied together.
I have always been a fan of Rita Mae Brown. I love her Mrs. Murphy series and usually enjoy the novels in this series. But I was disappointed in this latest book. The mystery story itself was practically nonexistent. The clues were a bit thin on the ground, there were very few scenes about the crimes or solving them. The big reveal at the end was a bit forced and handled in a way that I would expect from a pulp fiction cozy mystery.
The advanced review copy that I received only had 211 pages and the story does not begin until after several pages of character descriptions and fox hunting terms. Most of this short book is spent on descriptions of several fox hunts and discussions about endangered species and attempts to save wildlife. Although I enjoy the hunt descriptions, they were so plentiful that I lost interest and found myself skimming. Although I enjoyed the book, I found myself in hunt of the mystery story. Although Rita Mae Brown’s fans will enjoy the book, it is not the best fit for most mystery readers. However, I would recommend this book to animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Brown’s love of the sport shines through in all the beautiful descriptions of the territory and the thrilling action of the hunt that are a major part of all the books in this series. The author does a fantastic job of characterization. The recurring characters are well drawn and continue to develop throughout the series. In both this series and her Mrs. Murphy series, the animals are characters that are just as developed as the humans. The reader gets a taste of the conversations between the animals, and the bickering between the dogs and the foxes is quite enjoyable.
In this novel, the first hunt of the season is halted by increasing fog. Sister seems to sense something is out in the fog but shirks it off as fancy. Of course, it wasn’t. When a body is later found on display, it is obvious that it had been left for the hunt to find, had the fog not prevented the discovery. It seemed to have been a message for someone. Later, a member has his stamp collection stolen. Sister is convinced that the mysteries are somehow tied together.
I have always been a fan of Rita Mae Brown. I love her Mrs. Murphy series and usually enjoy the novels in this series. But I was disappointed in this latest book. The mystery story itself was practically nonexistent. The clues were a bit thin on the ground, there were very few scenes about the crimes or solving them. The big reveal at the end was a bit forced and handled in a way that I would expect from a pulp fiction cozy mystery.
The advanced review copy that I received only had 211 pages and the story does not begin until after several pages of character descriptions and fox hunting terms. Most of this short book is spent on descriptions of several fox hunts and discussions about endangered species and attempts to save wildlife. Although I enjoy the hunt descriptions, they were so plentiful that I lost interest and found myself skimming. Although I enjoyed the book, I found myself in hunt of the mystery story. Although Rita Mae Brown’s fans will enjoy the book, it is not the best fit for most mystery readers. However, I would recommend this book to animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
September 12, 2023
September 2022 in Virginia where the state sport is Fox Hunting and the state dog is Foxhound. It's a good thing that there is an explanatory cast of characters at the beginning because there are so many verbal animals as well as humans! I like this series because it stresses the importance of caring for wild animals as well as the household variety by a class of people who choose to spend their money securing the future for everyone. Those who work together in their own way to help solve the murder are not all human, but also an assortment of animals who are able to converse with one another. Just not the (dimwitted) humans.
It's always fun to learn new things!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine via NetGalley. Thank you
It's always fun to learn new things!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine via NetGalley. Thank you
February 15, 2025
Book 15 of Brown's "Sister" Jane fox hunting series is set in early fall with the opening of the season. The hunt is interrupted by the discovery of a dead body tied to a chair. The corpse's placement clearly signals an attack on the Hunt. Shortly after, a valuable stamp collection is stolen, revealing a link to the victim, and a blatant clue points to the Hunt's treasurer. It's up to Sister Jane, who once again employs her deep understanding of human nature and the mores of her community, to solve the case.
As a longtime fan of Brown's mysteries, I was delighted by the Mrs. Murphy series and now feel at home in the world of fox hunting—a sport I've long opposed. Brown convincingly portrays the beauty of the hunt when both animals and humans participate willingly. With "Harry" Haristeen, her sleuth in the Mrs. Murphy series, Brown presented a woman living in an earlier time and in her late 40s. Now, in Sister Jane, she shows the wisdom of her years.
Recommended for all readers of traditional mysteries and animal lovers.
As a longtime fan of Brown's mysteries, I was delighted by the Mrs. Murphy series and now feel at home in the world of fox hunting—a sport I've long opposed. Brown convincingly portrays the beauty of the hunt when both animals and humans participate willingly. With "Harry" Haristeen, her sleuth in the Mrs. Murphy series, Brown presented a woman living in an earlier time and in her late 40s. Now, in Sister Jane, she shows the wisdom of her years.
Recommended for all readers of traditional mysteries and animal lovers.
May 12, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Lost & Hound is the 15th "Sister" Jane mystery by Rita Mae Brown. Released 24th Oct 2023 by Penguin Random House on their Ballantine imprint, it's 272 pages and available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
Like nearly all of Ms. Brown's oeuvre, this is a capably written, well told story that is character driven, neatly plotted, and fairly well paced. Fans of the author, who also enjoy her cozy Mrs. Murphy series as well as her more serious writing will find this series readable and engaging. The Sister Jane books are cozies and full of the American foxhunting traditions and culture. If you don't know anything about riding to hounds, you will after reading this book. This book, markedly shorter than the previous books, seems to be a bit more patchy, with a few seemingly distracting side trips, but overall it's still well told and entertaining. The author/publisher have also helpfully included a glossary and list of characters with short descriptions to help readers stay in the story.
The dialogue and writing are pitch perfect. Typically for Ms. Brown, the writing is solidly comfortable and engaging. Reading her books is almost like visiting with an old friend you haven't seen for a while; you just pick up where you left off the last time, even if you haven't seen them for ages.
This is a distinctly anthropomorphic mystery; but fair warning, if talking animals bug you, this probably isn't the series for you. The book also does a superlative job of giving a glimpse into Virginia hospitality and etiquette and the riding subculture.
Four stars (mostly because even though American fox hunters just chase the foxes and don't kill them, it still distresses me and I'm always rooting for the foxes - the books are also *full* of upper class extremely wealthy people who often rub my proletariat heart the wrong way). Bonus points for the author's managing to make her characters ethnically diverse, and not just pasted on, either. Many of the characters have faced and worked through part of their tragic shared traumatic past, from slave times onward and at this point there seems to be more good-natured camaraderie than any festering resentment.
The actual murder mystery felt -distinctly- secondary to the fox hunting in this one, but still overall quite a solidly entertaining read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Lost & Hound is the 15th "Sister" Jane mystery by Rita Mae Brown. Released 24th Oct 2023 by Penguin Random House on their Ballantine imprint, it's 272 pages and available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
Like nearly all of Ms. Brown's oeuvre, this is a capably written, well told story that is character driven, neatly plotted, and fairly well paced. Fans of the author, who also enjoy her cozy Mrs. Murphy series as well as her more serious writing will find this series readable and engaging. The Sister Jane books are cozies and full of the American foxhunting traditions and culture. If you don't know anything about riding to hounds, you will after reading this book. This book, markedly shorter than the previous books, seems to be a bit more patchy, with a few seemingly distracting side trips, but overall it's still well told and entertaining. The author/publisher have also helpfully included a glossary and list of characters with short descriptions to help readers stay in the story.
The dialogue and writing are pitch perfect. Typically for Ms. Brown, the writing is solidly comfortable and engaging. Reading her books is almost like visiting with an old friend you haven't seen for a while; you just pick up where you left off the last time, even if you haven't seen them for ages.
This is a distinctly anthropomorphic mystery; but fair warning, if talking animals bug you, this probably isn't the series for you. The book also does a superlative job of giving a glimpse into Virginia hospitality and etiquette and the riding subculture.
Four stars (mostly because even though American fox hunters just chase the foxes and don't kill them, it still distresses me and I'm always rooting for the foxes - the books are also *full* of upper class extremely wealthy people who often rub my proletariat heart the wrong way). Bonus points for the author's managing to make her characters ethnically diverse, and not just pasted on, either. Many of the characters have faced and worked through part of their tragic shared traumatic past, from slave times onward and at this point there seems to be more good-natured camaraderie than any festering resentment.
The actual murder mystery felt -distinctly- secondary to the fox hunting in this one, but still overall quite a solidly entertaining read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
October 20, 2023
Jane "Sister" Arnold lives in Albemarle County, Virginia with her husband Gray. She and her friends live for the hunt, and raise both horses and dogs. It's the beginning of autumn, and they decide to enter the fray, only to find that there is too much fog for anything to happen, so they all retire back home. But the next morning after the fog lifts, it is discovered that there is a dead body tied to a chair. Unfortunately, the vultures have already had at him, which makes it a bit impossible to tell who he is. That and the fact that there is no identification.
Why was he tied there, in the way of the hunt? Who is he? How did he die? And what does it have to do with the hunt club, if anything? These are the questions that need to be answered, but no one has any of them. Still, the questions linger, and soon enough it's discovered that perhaps it does have something to do with a member of the hunt club. But is it ominous? And does that member have anything to do with the murder? Sister is determined to find out, even if it might be dangerous to do so...
I will admit that this is the first book in this series that I have read. I also freely admit that I love Mrs. Murphy series, and have read almost all of those. So yes, I was willing to give this one a go. Upon starting the book, I had no idea that I would learn so much about fox hunting. (Not enough to try it myself as I am a city girl born and bred, but it's an interesting idea otherwise!) It's extremely detailed and everything is recorded, you need a hunt master (which I knew) and others to keep everything running smoothly. There are so many details that I can't list them all here, but it's a lot of work and takes a lot of people.
However, Ms. Brown gives us an interesting story in between the hunting. Her writing is warm and the characters are believable. The story is written well, and it is nearly impossible to discover the reasons why the murder was committed. But even though the clues are there, this is how a good tale is done. You need to figure out what those clues mean, and decipher them along with the protagonist. While Sister doesn't really figure out the mystery, she is as much a part of it as her fellow huntsmen.
When the ending comes and the murderer is revealed, they are one of the most despicable of all. There is no sympathy for this person. We cannot feel for each killer, nor should we. All in all, the ending is worth the read, and when everything is said and done, we have read a good story. I look forward to the next in the series. Recommended.
I was given an advance copy from the publisher but this in no way influenced my review.
Why was he tied there, in the way of the hunt? Who is he? How did he die? And what does it have to do with the hunt club, if anything? These are the questions that need to be answered, but no one has any of them. Still, the questions linger, and soon enough it's discovered that perhaps it does have something to do with a member of the hunt club. But is it ominous? And does that member have anything to do with the murder? Sister is determined to find out, even if it might be dangerous to do so...
I will admit that this is the first book in this series that I have read. I also freely admit that I love Mrs. Murphy series, and have read almost all of those. So yes, I was willing to give this one a go. Upon starting the book, I had no idea that I would learn so much about fox hunting. (Not enough to try it myself as I am a city girl born and bred, but it's an interesting idea otherwise!) It's extremely detailed and everything is recorded, you need a hunt master (which I knew) and others to keep everything running smoothly. There are so many details that I can't list them all here, but it's a lot of work and takes a lot of people.
However, Ms. Brown gives us an interesting story in between the hunting. Her writing is warm and the characters are believable. The story is written well, and it is nearly impossible to discover the reasons why the murder was committed. But even though the clues are there, this is how a good tale is done. You need to figure out what those clues mean, and decipher them along with the protagonist. While Sister doesn't really figure out the mystery, she is as much a part of it as her fellow huntsmen.
When the ending comes and the murderer is revealed, they are one of the most despicable of all. There is no sympathy for this person. We cannot feel for each killer, nor should we. All in all, the ending is worth the read, and when everything is said and done, we have read a good story. I look forward to the next in the series. Recommended.
I was given an advance copy from the publisher but this in no way influenced my review.
February 4, 2024
Lost & Hound by Rita Mae Brown (part of the “Sister” Jane series) was not quite what I was expecting, and sadly was not a book for me. It is my fault for requesting the book and not knowing that it was part of a series, and that it mainly revolved around fox-hunting. A sport I know nothing about- and I feel I know even less about having read the book.
The novel starts off with the Jefferson Hunt Club, led by “Sister” Jane Arnold, out on a hunt; during the hunt, a mutilated body is found. Who is the man found bound to a chair? Why was he left outside for the hunters to find? What does it have to do with the Jefferson Hunt Club? All questions that are dragged out through the book.
Perhaps it was because I had not read the other books in the series; perhaps it was because I know nothing of horses, and hounds, and hunts; perhaps it was the plethora of characters who I found hard to keep track of, but I did not enjoy the book.
To be honest, it was a slog for me to get through. There were too many characters and names of people, horses, hounds, and foxes to remember. The interspersed conversations or comments by the hounds only served to clutter the story. I think I requested the book because it supposed to be a story from human AND animal perspectives, but the animal part I found very….fractured and unimportant to the plot.
The plot. It dragged on and on. If this was supposed to be a mystery, there was no tension. I did not care who the murder victim was nor did I care who murdered him. And the climatic scene? The resolution to the murder? It was so far out of left field, I had to go back a few pages, twice, to see if I had missed some instigating event.
Clearly, Rita Mae Brown is a talented writer as they have a large catalogue of work and bestsellers. The descriptions of the rides and the pastoral imagery were pleasant. I just could not get past the bland plot and characters. As mentioned, I have not read any of the other books in the series, so it could be why I felt the characters were not as developed as they could have been. Sadly I cannot recommend Lost & Hound and rate it 2/5. As always thanks to @NetGalley and @penguinrandomhouse for the eARC in exchange of an honest review.
The novel starts off with the Jefferson Hunt Club, led by “Sister” Jane Arnold, out on a hunt; during the hunt, a mutilated body is found. Who is the man found bound to a chair? Why was he left outside for the hunters to find? What does it have to do with the Jefferson Hunt Club? All questions that are dragged out through the book.
Perhaps it was because I had not read the other books in the series; perhaps it was because I know nothing of horses, and hounds, and hunts; perhaps it was the plethora of characters who I found hard to keep track of, but I did not enjoy the book.
To be honest, it was a slog for me to get through. There were too many characters and names of people, horses, hounds, and foxes to remember. The interspersed conversations or comments by the hounds only served to clutter the story. I think I requested the book because it supposed to be a story from human AND animal perspectives, but the animal part I found very….fractured and unimportant to the plot.
The plot. It dragged on and on. If this was supposed to be a mystery, there was no tension. I did not care who the murder victim was nor did I care who murdered him. And the climatic scene? The resolution to the murder? It was so far out of left field, I had to go back a few pages, twice, to see if I had missed some instigating event.
Clearly, Rita Mae Brown is a talented writer as they have a large catalogue of work and bestsellers. The descriptions of the rides and the pastoral imagery were pleasant. I just could not get past the bland plot and characters. As mentioned, I have not read any of the other books in the series, so it could be why I felt the characters were not as developed as they could have been. Sadly I cannot recommend Lost & Hound and rate it 2/5. As always thanks to @NetGalley and @penguinrandomhouse for the eARC in exchange of an honest review.
October 25, 2023
2604. “Lost & Hound” by Rita Mae Brown * * *
Review of eBook
A dense and persistent fog keeps people home, the birds and the deer are still. The silence is unnerving for Jane Arnold, better known as Sister. Fifteen couples are scheduled for the Jefferson Hunt Club’s foxhunt; however, after one run, the thick fog causes the cancellation of the hunt. Both Ben and Betty think they saw something, but in the thick fog, they dismiss it as an illusion.
The next day, Sam, heading for church, discovers the body. He realizes that, if not for the thick fog, they’d have discovered the body the day before.
Did the murderer want someone in the hunt club to see the body? And who is the victim?
=========
The magnificent descriptions are the highlight of this narrative; whether it’s the setting or the foxhunt, the descriptions are magnificent, propelling the reader into the midst of the scene. It’s clear that the author is well-versed in the sport; conversations between the animals are often delightful.
The characters are well-developed and believable; here in this fifteenth book in the author’s Sister Jane series, all the expected characters are in place. As with previous stories in the series, the friendships and camaraderie between the characters is a highlight of the narrative. The plot offers some surprises, but the mystery feels like a minor plot in the telling of the tale.
An extensive cast of characters precedes the narrative; readers new to the series are likely to find these . . . the humans, the foxhounds, the horses, the red foxes, the gray foxes, the birds, Sister’s house pets . . . helpful in determining who’s who in the telling of the tale. Also provided is a list of useful terms for those unfamiliar with foxhunts. This protracted list may feel a bit daunting to readers new to the series, but the information does help with understanding the unfolding story.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine, Ballantine Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
#LostHound #NetGalley
Review of eBook
A dense and persistent fog keeps people home, the birds and the deer are still. The silence is unnerving for Jane Arnold, better known as Sister. Fifteen couples are scheduled for the Jefferson Hunt Club’s foxhunt; however, after one run, the thick fog causes the cancellation of the hunt. Both Ben and Betty think they saw something, but in the thick fog, they dismiss it as an illusion.
The next day, Sam, heading for church, discovers the body. He realizes that, if not for the thick fog, they’d have discovered the body the day before.
Did the murderer want someone in the hunt club to see the body? And who is the victim?
=========
The magnificent descriptions are the highlight of this narrative; whether it’s the setting or the foxhunt, the descriptions are magnificent, propelling the reader into the midst of the scene. It’s clear that the author is well-versed in the sport; conversations between the animals are often delightful.
The characters are well-developed and believable; here in this fifteenth book in the author’s Sister Jane series, all the expected characters are in place. As with previous stories in the series, the friendships and camaraderie between the characters is a highlight of the narrative. The plot offers some surprises, but the mystery feels like a minor plot in the telling of the tale.
An extensive cast of characters precedes the narrative; readers new to the series are likely to find these . . . the humans, the foxhounds, the horses, the red foxes, the gray foxes, the birds, Sister’s house pets . . . helpful in determining who’s who in the telling of the tale. Also provided is a list of useful terms for those unfamiliar with foxhunts. This protracted list may feel a bit daunting to readers new to the series, but the information does help with understanding the unfolding story.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine, Ballantine Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
#LostHound #NetGalley
November 23, 2023
Thank you to Vanessa Duque, Ballantine Books, NetGalley, and Rita May Brown for this free ecopy!
“Lost and Hound”(“Sister” Jane #15) by Rita Mae Brown ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Genre: Cozy Mystery. Location: Virginia, USA. Time: Fall, 2022.
THE SERIES: Set in the world of Virginia foxhunting, with a cast of Southerners and their whimsical animal counterparts. “Sister” Jane Arnold (70s) is the most revered citizen in a Virginia Blue Ridge Mountain town known for its rigid code of social conduct and deep-seated traditions. She’s also the Master of Foxhounds for her beloved Jefferson Hunt Club.
THIS BOOK: The Jefferson Hunt is as busy as usual. When a corpse is found strapped to a chair beside a hunting trail, it’s clear someone is sending a message. Then a valuable stamp collection is stolen, and a club member is suspected. Sister must uncover who’s sending these messages—before any of her friends die.
Author Brown gives us a well-written, cozy mystery with rich, varied characters embedded in a book about fox hunting and the environment. She adds whimsy by giving the animals distinct personalities, and letting them talk among themselves. She shares helpful information (Fox hunting terms; Cast of Characters-humans, horses, hounds, foxes, birds, inside animals). Brown also presents compelling arguments for plant and wildlife conservation-I took notes! Her writing style has a vibe similar to Alexander McCall Smith.
The worldview of this book and series is that foxes are sentient animals who willingly lead hunters on a merry chase. If that’s your view, you will enjoy this kind-hearted book. If you believe foxes don’t understand it’s just a merry chase, and are panicked and running for their lives, maybe not so much. I have loved Rita Mae Brown for 50 years (since Rubyfruit Jungle), and I love her Sneaky Pie Brown series, but this fox hunting book is not my cup of tea. Only my personal opinion-this is #15 in a beloved, best-selling series. It’s 3 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️
“Lost and Hound”(“Sister” Jane #15) by Rita Mae Brown ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Genre: Cozy Mystery. Location: Virginia, USA. Time: Fall, 2022.
THE SERIES: Set in the world of Virginia foxhunting, with a cast of Southerners and their whimsical animal counterparts. “Sister” Jane Arnold (70s) is the most revered citizen in a Virginia Blue Ridge Mountain town known for its rigid code of social conduct and deep-seated traditions. She’s also the Master of Foxhounds for her beloved Jefferson Hunt Club.
THIS BOOK: The Jefferson Hunt is as busy as usual. When a corpse is found strapped to a chair beside a hunting trail, it’s clear someone is sending a message. Then a valuable stamp collection is stolen, and a club member is suspected. Sister must uncover who’s sending these messages—before any of her friends die.
Author Brown gives us a well-written, cozy mystery with rich, varied characters embedded in a book about fox hunting and the environment. She adds whimsy by giving the animals distinct personalities, and letting them talk among themselves. She shares helpful information (Fox hunting terms; Cast of Characters-humans, horses, hounds, foxes, birds, inside animals). Brown also presents compelling arguments for plant and wildlife conservation-I took notes! Her writing style has a vibe similar to Alexander McCall Smith.
The worldview of this book and series is that foxes are sentient animals who willingly lead hunters on a merry chase. If that’s your view, you will enjoy this kind-hearted book. If you believe foxes don’t understand it’s just a merry chase, and are panicked and running for their lives, maybe not so much. I have loved Rita Mae Brown for 50 years (since Rubyfruit Jungle), and I love her Sneaky Pie Brown series, but this fox hunting book is not my cup of tea. Only my personal opinion-this is #15 in a beloved, best-selling series. It’s 3 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️
November 18, 2023
Thanks to Ballentine Books & NetGalley for a digital advance reader's copy. All comments and opinions are my own.
I liked the book cover and the publisher’s description, so was expecting an entertaining cozy mystery. The best thing about this book was the cover. The book itself was incredibly tedious, and I read 50% before I called it quits and DNF (did not finish). I have read other books by Rita Mae Brown that I recall enjoying, but not recently and not from this series.
The first clue I had that this might not be an appealing read was the list of characters presented before the novel began. After the list and description of 27(!) “Humans” (including nicknames that sounded like the animals in the other lists), there were lists and descriptions of “American Foxhounds,” “The Horses,” “Foxes” (both reds and greys), “The Birds,” and “Sister’s House Pets.” Plus a glossary of “Useful Terms” that explained fox hunting.
I optimistically figured it would all come together as I began to read, but it was so slow and bogged down with fox hunting activities, as well as hunt club minutiae and technicalities that I couldn’t believe many people would care about this world of Virginia foxhunting, hunters, horses, hounds, and foxes.
To its credit, this is #15 in the series, so maybe if I had started with #1 and read all 14 earlier books, I might have enjoyed this one. But the only thing that broke up the tedium was the discovery of the murder victim in Chapter 3. By Chapter 18 I’d had enough. There is really no story and no characters worth caring about. With too many other books in my TBR pile (both digital and paper) I couldn’t spend any more time with this one.
I liked the book cover and the publisher’s description, so was expecting an entertaining cozy mystery. The best thing about this book was the cover. The book itself was incredibly tedious, and I read 50% before I called it quits and DNF (did not finish). I have read other books by Rita Mae Brown that I recall enjoying, but not recently and not from this series.
The first clue I had that this might not be an appealing read was the list of characters presented before the novel began. After the list and description of 27(!) “Humans” (including nicknames that sounded like the animals in the other lists), there were lists and descriptions of “American Foxhounds,” “The Horses,” “Foxes” (both reds and greys), “The Birds,” and “Sister’s House Pets.” Plus a glossary of “Useful Terms” that explained fox hunting.
I optimistically figured it would all come together as I began to read, but it was so slow and bogged down with fox hunting activities, as well as hunt club minutiae and technicalities that I couldn’t believe many people would care about this world of Virginia foxhunting, hunters, horses, hounds, and foxes.
To its credit, this is #15 in the series, so maybe if I had started with #1 and read all 14 earlier books, I might have enjoyed this one. But the only thing that broke up the tedium was the discovery of the murder victim in Chapter 3. By Chapter 18 I’d had enough. There is really no story and no characters worth caring about. With too many other books in my TBR pile (both digital and paper) I couldn’t spend any more time with this one.
October 26, 2023
Fox hunting, Mysterious Stamps, and Murder
It’s fall and the Jefferson County hunt is eager for the first fox hunt. Unfortunately, the fog is so thick they have to turn back after the first run. Two of the members think they saw a face in the fog, but decide it must have been an illusion. The next day, the illusion becomes a reality when the face turns out to be a murdered man tied to a chair just where the hunt would have found him on a good day. Then the stamp collection of one of the members is stolen. The collection is returned, but one stamp is found on the door of the hunt treasurer before he is attacked.
These incidents are the basis of the mystery, but since no one in the Jefferson Hunt is seriously pursuing clues the incidents fall flat. The main characters, Sister, Betty, Gray, Jane’s husband, and the others discuss the murder and the stamps, but it seems incidental to their talk of the upcoming hunts.
As usual, I enjoyed the animal characters: horses, foxes and dogs. Their lively banter is fun to read. The human characters are well drawn. I always enjoy their conversations about hunting as well as current events. The Virginia country side is beautifully described, and the fox hunts are exciting. However, the mystery seems a bit lacking. I kept waiting for characters to pursue clues instead of having incidents dropped in their laps. I recommend this book as a fun read, particularly if you like animals, but for me it lacked a focus on the mystery.
Thanks to the Random House Group and Net Galley for this review copy.
It’s fall and the Jefferson County hunt is eager for the first fox hunt. Unfortunately, the fog is so thick they have to turn back after the first run. Two of the members think they saw a face in the fog, but decide it must have been an illusion. The next day, the illusion becomes a reality when the face turns out to be a murdered man tied to a chair just where the hunt would have found him on a good day. Then the stamp collection of one of the members is stolen. The collection is returned, but one stamp is found on the door of the hunt treasurer before he is attacked.
These incidents are the basis of the mystery, but since no one in the Jefferson Hunt is seriously pursuing clues the incidents fall flat. The main characters, Sister, Betty, Gray, Jane’s husband, and the others discuss the murder and the stamps, but it seems incidental to their talk of the upcoming hunts.
As usual, I enjoyed the animal characters: horses, foxes and dogs. Their lively banter is fun to read. The human characters are well drawn. I always enjoy their conversations about hunting as well as current events. The Virginia country side is beautifully described, and the fox hunts are exciting. However, the mystery seems a bit lacking. I kept waiting for characters to pursue clues instead of having incidents dropped in their laps. I recommend this book as a fun read, particularly if you like animals, but for me it lacked a focus on the mystery.
Thanks to the Random House Group and Net Galley for this review copy.
October 20, 2023
This is book 15 in the “Sister” Jane Mystery Series. This story is one of intrigue when a dead body that is suspected relay a message is left in the path of fox hunters and is tied to a tree. Stolen stamps add another layer of mystery and intrigue, especially when it is learned the victim was also a stamp collector.
There is much detail provided, first in the beginning every person in the story is described in detail, then as the story progressed there was extensive descriptions of the component of the fox hunts. Somehow through all that, I often lost track of main point of the story – the mystery.
Sister Jane, along with her fellow foxhunters set out to discover the message the killer is sending and along the way disturbing clues are discovered. The friendship and commitment among the foxhunters are admirable, however, the story itself got somewhat lost among the vivid descriptions provided.
Anyone knowledgeable and interested in foxhunts or would like to learn about them, will love this book that provides a very descriptive narrative. The mystery itself is captivating, and the motive for the murder was a surprise, however, for me it was a little too heavy on such vivid descriptions of the characters, which I promptly forgot once I started reading the story, and the exacting details of a foxhunt.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
There is much detail provided, first in the beginning every person in the story is described in detail, then as the story progressed there was extensive descriptions of the component of the fox hunts. Somehow through all that, I often lost track of main point of the story – the mystery.
Sister Jane, along with her fellow foxhunters set out to discover the message the killer is sending and along the way disturbing clues are discovered. The friendship and commitment among the foxhunters are admirable, however, the story itself got somewhat lost among the vivid descriptions provided.
Anyone knowledgeable and interested in foxhunts or would like to learn about them, will love this book that provides a very descriptive narrative. The mystery itself is captivating, and the motive for the murder was a surprise, however, for me it was a little too heavy on such vivid descriptions of the characters, which I promptly forgot once I started reading the story, and the exacting details of a foxhunt.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 13, 2023
This was my first novel by Rita Mae Brown and I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was a bit apprehensive when the first 3 – 4 pages of the novel, were character names to include the names of not only the humans in this novel, but the hounds, the horses, the foxes, the birds, wowza. I was glad I read her novel, Rita Mae Brown did a wonderful job of presenting a murder mystery. Sister Jane Arnold leads fox hunts in Virginia for the Jefferson Hunt club and the season has just begun. However, the discovery of a dead man tied to a chair on the previous days hunt makes for an eerie episode. Who is the dead man and what does this have to do with the hunt club? Club members and animals alike start pondering what is going on?
I have to say, the mystery was interesting but what I found myself engaging more with was the conversation that happened as the humans would speak and the animals would also comment on the same conversation. How the elder hounds would guide the younger hounds when on a hunt, the comments from the horses about the hunt. “Hearing” the conversations between the animals was a fun way to add to the story. I also learned a lot about fox hunting, the traditions, the language and how a hunt is conducted. It was interesting and added to the story. Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I will pick up another book by this author.
I have to say, the mystery was interesting but what I found myself engaging more with was the conversation that happened as the humans would speak and the animals would also comment on the same conversation. How the elder hounds would guide the younger hounds when on a hunt, the comments from the horses about the hunt. “Hearing” the conversations between the animals was a fun way to add to the story. I also learned a lot about fox hunting, the traditions, the language and how a hunt is conducted. It was interesting and added to the story. Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I will pick up another book by this author.
November 18, 2024
This one was not at all what I thought it would be. The first hint that I was in trouble was the LENGTHY list of characters - both human and not - in the front of the book. While the list helped, there was still an overwhelming number of characters. They also didn't really have distinct voices.
Most of the book is taken up with lengthy descriptions of minutiae and inane chatter. The mystery mostly features only as a topic of idle conversation. Very little was done to advance the mystery throughout the book, until it all just comes to a rushed head at the end.
However, I did enjoy learning about modern fox hunting culture and the club. Fox hunting is something I always thought I wanted to try but I (naively) thought that in this day and age we aren't chasing real animals and setting dogs on them to rip them apart. Spoiler alert...there is a coyote in this book who most likely met a bad end, but no one cares that they probably left him to die a slow painful death. They only care about the hound.
Oh and PLEASE DON'T ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO PICK UP WILD ANIMALS AND KEEP THEM AS PETS!!! In this case, it was a box turtle, which I'm pretty sure is illegal in the state of Virginia, where this story is set.
Most of the book is taken up with lengthy descriptions of minutiae and inane chatter. The mystery mostly features only as a topic of idle conversation. Very little was done to advance the mystery throughout the book, until it all just comes to a rushed head at the end.
However, I did enjoy learning about modern fox hunting culture and the club. Fox hunting is something I always thought I wanted to try but I (naively) thought that in this day and age we aren't chasing real animals and setting dogs on them to rip them apart. Spoiler alert...there is a coyote in this book who most likely met a bad end, but no one cares that they probably left him to die a slow painful death. They only care about the hound.
Oh and PLEASE DON'T ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO PICK UP WILD ANIMALS AND KEEP THEM AS PETS!!! In this case, it was a box turtle, which I'm pretty sure is illegal in the state of Virginia, where this story is set.
November 27, 2023
This 15th book in the Sister Jane mystery series is yet another wonderful study in the finer points of humane fox hunting. The reader is proffered historic detail, descriptions of hunt practices, roles and manners of participants - all of which lays out the landscape of the fox hunt. One quickly discovers that there is a tremendous amount of effort and planning which goes into each hunt. The descriptions of the actual hunts are so beautifully detailed that one imagines that they're flying over fence and post alongside other riders. Add a philatelic twist to the murder and you've got yourself a fun cozy mystery while hanging out with the hunting set. Kudos to Ms. Brown. If you are a fan of the traditional fox hunt, then this just might be the book for you.
I am grateful to author Rita Me Brown and publisher Ballantine Books for having provided a free copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publication Date: October 24, 2023
Number of pages: 272
ISBN: 978-0593357576
I am grateful to author Rita Me Brown and publisher Ballantine Books for having provided a free copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publication Date: October 24, 2023
Number of pages: 272
ISBN: 978-0593357576
February 22, 2024
🐎 When I came across this ARC, I just knew it was going to be fantastic. It’s the fifteenth book of a series so it’s got a solid foundation. I love horses and rode hunter/jumper in my youth, so I found that aspect of the book instantly appealing. Throw in a murder mystery with the fox hunting and what could go wrong? Unfortunately, in my opinion, more than I bargained for.
I never imagined what reading about a fox hunt would be like. Turns out it’s a lot like reading a transcript of a play by play at a sporting event. Fortunately, I have experience with the technical riding terms, so that made it less difficult for me to navigate as a reader, but I feel like the average non-rider would be hopelessly lost. Perhaps the extensive index at the beginning of the book should have been a sign, but I also found it very difficult to account for all of the different names of people, horses, and dogs. Add to that the fact that several of the human character names were rather odd and I kept getting them confused with the horses and dogs. The dialogue was difficult to follow as well, often unclear who was speaking in a certain situation. Finally, the big reveal of the mystery seemed to come out of no where but by that point I was so confused and bored by the whole experience that I simply didn’t care. Based on my encounter with this work I don’t see myself continuing with the series. 2.5/5 ⭐️ (rounded up to 3⭐️)
I never imagined what reading about a fox hunt would be like. Turns out it’s a lot like reading a transcript of a play by play at a sporting event. Fortunately, I have experience with the technical riding terms, so that made it less difficult for me to navigate as a reader, but I feel like the average non-rider would be hopelessly lost. Perhaps the extensive index at the beginning of the book should have been a sign, but I also found it very difficult to account for all of the different names of people, horses, and dogs. Add to that the fact that several of the human character names were rather odd and I kept getting them confused with the horses and dogs. The dialogue was difficult to follow as well, often unclear who was speaking in a certain situation. Finally, the big reveal of the mystery seemed to come out of no where but by that point I was so confused and bored by the whole experience that I simply didn’t care. Based on my encounter with this work I don’t see myself continuing with the series. 2.5/5 ⭐️ (rounded up to 3⭐️)
November 28, 2023
This 15th book of the series is marginally better than the last few, which lacked a compelling mystery plot, contained lengthy diatribes on political and social issues rather than actual conversation between the characters, and generally made the characters into stereotypes. We still got the same old observations on social and political issues, but there were fewer of them. The mystery was actually better and had more real life "heft" as it dealt with theft, exploitation and smuggling. There were some fine descriptions of hunting and the countryside, which requires constant maintenance against the encroachment of roads and houses of the folks fleeing the city only to fail to understand the rules of country life. One observation: I loved the title of the book, but felt it had no relation to the plot. I also think that the cast of characters has become too large, and the effort to mention all of them detracts from keeping a crisp plot line. All in all, better than the last several books, but no where as good as the first several in the series.
September 28, 2023
Early in the hunting season, a body is placed, tied to a chair, right in the path of the hunt. Sister Jane and her fellow foxhunters want to know just what message the killer is trying to send as they take care of the normal knotty problems in keeping their hunt club in good shape, physically and financially. Sister and her friends find clues and find the culprit; just a little closer than they would like!
I love the wonderful descriptions of the hunt. It makes me feel like I am there racing behind the hounds and taking the jumps. (I have never actually jumped on a horse; just trotted on the flat meadow, and I am too old to start now.)
Another great thing about this series is that we hear the animals' conversations. The dog and fox insults are really funny.
The recurring characters continue to develop and the new people are well sketched. Of course, Sister Jane is my favorite!
Great addition to the series.
I love the wonderful descriptions of the hunt. It makes me feel like I am there racing behind the hounds and taking the jumps. (I have never actually jumped on a horse; just trotted on the flat meadow, and I am too old to start now.)
Another great thing about this series is that we hear the animals' conversations. The dog and fox insults are really funny.
The recurring characters continue to develop and the new people are well sketched. Of course, Sister Jane is my favorite!
Great addition to the series.
September 5, 2023
“Lost and Hound”, the fifteenth book in Rita Mae Brown’s “Sister” Jane mystery series, has a good mystery – a dead body is tied to a chair and left in the path of fox hunters. The dead body is clearly meant to send a message to one of the group but who and why? A second connected mystery regarding stolen stamps also adds to the intrigue. Unfortunately, I found that the mystery got lost for long stretches of time as the book described several fox hunts in detail – sure the fox hunts were interesting and there was one very suspenseful fox hunt but I felt that they got in the way of the mystery. Also, the ending when the killer was revealed was a bit unbelievable to me (not who the killer was but the revealing itself) but the motive was an eye-opener for me and I learned of a sad, criminal way to make money.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
April 2, 2024
Rita Mae Brown’s prose fascinates me! I have always enjoyed her descriptive passages as she takes her readers with her on horseback. The only Fox hunts that I have ever experienced are those in her books, and yet they are so realistic. Her detailed descriptions of the riding terrain, clothing, scenery, food service and social etiquette, mixed with conversations about current political and social issues make the reader feel like they are in the story with the characters. The Sister Jane series brings back old friends and their well loved animals (who also share their thoughts), occasional illustrations, and a puzzling, Nancy Drew style, mystery, all adding up to a most enjoyable immersive experience. The fact that this gifted author is also a Master Fox Hunter herself makes her talents all that much more impressive!
October 12, 2023
Sister Jane and the talking animals are back in this tale of murder, stolen stamps, and trading in exotic reptiles. Oh, and the fox hunt. As this series grows, it becomes more challenging to recommend new installments as standalone because of the large (really large) cast of human and animal characters. That said, there is as always a list of the players at the beginning, which helps tremendously. Fans also know that the mystery- in this case the identity of the murderer and the thief (are they the same?)-is often less interesting than the hunt and, let's be honest, the conversation between the animals. You might not be surprised but you will be entertained. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. A good read.
January 10, 2024
Lost & Hound is a murder mystery. Most of the characters are members of a fox hunting club in Virginia, and much of the novel presents the details of many hunts and meetings of the hunt club officers. The murder is a major concern of the club because it seems to be some kind of message to the club, but the circumstances are perplexing and upsetting.
Many of the facts of the murder and other suspicious incidents are presented to the reader through the dialogue of the club members. Their banter and speculation move the story forward at a slow pace. Ultimately the mystery seems to take on a life of its own, as it meanders to a climax. This book is recommended for readers, who enjoy a leisurely read.
Many of the facts of the murder and other suspicious incidents are presented to the reader through the dialogue of the club members. Their banter and speculation move the story forward at a slow pace. Ultimately the mystery seems to take on a life of its own, as it meanders to a climax. This book is recommended for readers, who enjoy a leisurely read.
February 27, 2024
I received this book from Goodreads.com in exchange for an honest review. This is the first "Sister" Jane book that I've read and I have no background whatsoever in fox hunting. I liked the beginning pages where each character is described, including the dogs. I also liked the environmental aspect of the book and preserving wildlife and butterflies.
That was pretty much where I stopped liking the book. There were so many human characters with the dogs and horses adding comments along the way. The interaction of the characters was "scripted". It didn't sound like real conversations. It was a very dry writing style with a lot of details that I didn't necessarily think added to the story.
That was pretty much where I stopped liking the book. There were so many human characters with the dogs and horses adding comments along the way. The interaction of the characters was "scripted". It didn't sound like real conversations. It was a very dry writing style with a lot of details that I didn't necessarily think added to the story.
July 18, 2024
Not bad, not her best, not my favorite. RMB still writes some of the best conversations, but this one had issues. Accuracy matters to me and it frustrates me that she perpetuates the fallacy of goldenrod contributing to fall allergies (doesn’t) and poisonous snakes (no such things). It seemed to take the characters forever to identify the bad guys, and then it was whomp! Over. No one suspected them? Really?The probable murderer became obvious to me very quickly. But Sister, who is usually so sharp, wasn’t. There’s subtle (or not so subtle) social and environmental messaging, which works for me, but it seemed less interesting mystery and more writing to fill a quota of pages. And not happy that the most obnoxious of the hounds ended up badly hurt but glad the dog character will be ok.
January 7, 2024
The first fox hunt of the season begins in a fog. They finally return home as it worsens. The next day a body tied to a chair is found on the hunt trail. They missed it due to the fog. The body is an unknown person. The hunt goes on with some strange things happening. One of the members stamps are stolen. Turns out they’re not worth much, just collected for the colors. Then a hunt member is attacked at his home. The hunt knows something is wrong but not what. The mystery plays clear at the annual concert. And it’s not what you would expect. Another great book from Rita Mae Brown. #LostHound #NetGalley
October 25, 2023
This is the fifteenth book in this series and the first book I've read, and I personally think I might have enjoyed this more had I read the other books. I had a hard time connecting with the characters or really caring what was going on with them or really with the mystery at all.
However a lot of others seem to really enjoy this book, and this series and the synopsis really did intrigue me, so I might try and start this series from the beginning and see if that makes me connect with the characters better.
However a lot of others seem to really enjoy this book, and this series and the synopsis really did intrigue me, so I might try and start this series from the beginning and see if that makes me connect with the characters better.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews