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Nikki Harper Mysteries #1
The Bad Always Die Twice
Set in Hollywood, The Bad Always Die Twice is the first of a wildly entertaining series set amidst the bright lights, big egos, and Botoxed brows of Hollywood. It is partly the glitz and glamour of Jackie Collins novels and partly the LA streets of hard-boiled James Ellroy.
Who better to tell this tale than Cheryl Crane, daughter of Hollywood legend Lana Turner and actor-restaurateur Joseph Stephen Crane? Cheryl was involved in the Johnny Stompanato scandal of the same period. She allegedly killed the hoodlum because he threatened to kill her mother.
This mystery features Nicki Harper, the daughter of a screen goddess, who is raised in a completely dysfunctional home populated by a cast of crazies but who did not follow in her mother's footsteps. Instead, Nikki is a real estate agent who wants a quiet, comfortable life with a little love and happiness thrown in.
Up until now, Nicki always thought that dead meant dead. But then, film icon Rex March turns up freshly murdered in the bed of Nicki's best friend after being reported dead six months ago. A little distrustful of law enforcement, Nicki feels compelled to solve the murder on her own. Her acquaintances range from the pinnacle of Hollywood royalty to the bottom of Tinseltown's barrel, including a not-so-grieving widow, a conniving younger lover, a best friend with secrets, a jilted mistress, a ''closeted'' confidante, a wacky neighbor, and a scheming business partner. Rex has a gaping hole where his eye used to be, and Nicki knows a lot of people with motives for the murder. The killer is getting ready for a repeat performance, so Nicki must act fast before her own screen fades to black.
Who better to tell this tale than Cheryl Crane, daughter of Hollywood legend Lana Turner and actor-restaurateur Joseph Stephen Crane? Cheryl was involved in the Johnny Stompanato scandal of the same period. She allegedly killed the hoodlum because he threatened to kill her mother.
This mystery features Nicki Harper, the daughter of a screen goddess, who is raised in a completely dysfunctional home populated by a cast of crazies but who did not follow in her mother's footsteps. Instead, Nikki is a real estate agent who wants a quiet, comfortable life with a little love and happiness thrown in.
Up until now, Nicki always thought that dead meant dead. But then, film icon Rex March turns up freshly murdered in the bed of Nicki's best friend after being reported dead six months ago. A little distrustful of law enforcement, Nicki feels compelled to solve the murder on her own. Her acquaintances range from the pinnacle of Hollywood royalty to the bottom of Tinseltown's barrel, including a not-so-grieving widow, a conniving younger lover, a best friend with secrets, a jilted mistress, a ''closeted'' confidante, a wacky neighbor, and a scheming business partner. Rex has a gaping hole where his eye used to be, and Nicki knows a lot of people with motives for the murder. The killer is getting ready for a repeat performance, so Nicki must act fast before her own screen fades to black.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published August 30, 2011
22 people are currently reading
387 people want to read
About the author
Cheryl Crane
12 books37 followersCheryl Crane is the daughter of movie star Lana Turner. She became infamous in 1958 after stabbing Turner's boyfriend, Johnny Stompanato. It was ruled to be justifiable homicide as Crane had been protecting her mother. Crane is the author of the autobiography Detour: a Hollywood Tragedy - My Life With Lana Turner, My Mother and other books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
November 5, 2011
First Sentence: Nikki Harper snagged a Norwegian salmon canapé from a silver tray as a server passed her.
Nikki Harper is the daughter of a Hollywood legend, Victoria Bordeaux, inherited enough money from her late father that she need never work and yet supports herself selling real estate in Hollywood with her friend, Jessica Martin. One of their recent sales was the house of Edith March. Originally, they worked for Edith’s husband, Rex until he died in a small plane crash eight months ago, his body never recovered. Or at least Rex was thought to have died. Now Rex, who clearly had not died in a plane crash, has turned up clearly murdered, naked for gold lamé bikini briefs, in Jessica’s bed and she is the prime suspect in his murder. Nikki, who knows her friend is innocent but is afraid the police won’t look further than Jessica, is determined to provide her friend is innocent.
New authors are always advised to “write what you know” and Ms. Crane followed that adage to good end. Author Cheryl Crane does sell real estate in Palm Springs. She is also the daughter of real Hollywood actress and legend Lana Turner, whose second husband was stabbed to death and for which Cheryl pled guilty. The case was ruled as justifiable homicide as Crane was protecting her mother from a man who was known to be violent and abusive. However, rather than this being a dark and bitter book, it is absolutely delightful.
There are three critical elements for which I look when I read: characters, dialogue and plot. Ms Crane scored very high marks on all the points.
In contrast to the setting of the rich and famous, Nikki is a delightful protagonist. In spite of her collection of high-end watches, she drives a Prius, doesn’t generally wear designer shoes or clothes and is self-supporting. Although, due to her upbringing, she is connected to the Hollywood glitterati, she’s seen behind the screen and isn’t impressed. This is refreshing for although the book is filled with famous names and labels, you realize these are simply part of the character’s life more than being there to impress. Nikki’s mother, Victoria, is an absolute gem. She is Hollywood nobility but with good sense and an understanding of the importance of treating everyone with respect. The relationship between them is a realistic combination of love, affection, frustration and exasperation.
Crane has an excellent ear for dialogue. It’s natural, crisp, often funny and occasionally touching. The only weakness was in trying to capture the sound of a deep Southern accent in print. It slowed down the pace of reading and just didn’t really work.
The plot was so well done. Crane uses Nikki’s background, similar to Crane’s own, to explain her distrust of the police and why she felt compelled to investigate the murder. She followed the clues, worked with others, and never came up as TSTL (too stupid to live). She did a wonderful job creating plot twists and red herrings without their ever feeling contrived or awkward. Even if you think you know the killer, you’re not at all certain until the very end.
The story is refreshing in that there is almost no profanity but neither is it so sweet it makes your teeth hurt. The language is occasionally euphemistic rather than profane and the story is without either graphic sex or violence. It will be interesting to see Ms. Crane develop as a writer and Nikki develop as a character.
“THE BAD ALWAYS DIE TWICE” is a very good book multiple generations of readers could enjoy, and should so do.
THE BAD ALWAYS DIE TWICE (Ama Sleuth-Nikki Harper-Los Angeles-Cont) - VG
Crane, Cheryl – 1st in series
New York: Kensington Books, ©2011
Nikki Harper is the daughter of a Hollywood legend, Victoria Bordeaux, inherited enough money from her late father that she need never work and yet supports herself selling real estate in Hollywood with her friend, Jessica Martin. One of their recent sales was the house of Edith March. Originally, they worked for Edith’s husband, Rex until he died in a small plane crash eight months ago, his body never recovered. Or at least Rex was thought to have died. Now Rex, who clearly had not died in a plane crash, has turned up clearly murdered, naked for gold lamé bikini briefs, in Jessica’s bed and she is the prime suspect in his murder. Nikki, who knows her friend is innocent but is afraid the police won’t look further than Jessica, is determined to provide her friend is innocent.
New authors are always advised to “write what you know” and Ms. Crane followed that adage to good end. Author Cheryl Crane does sell real estate in Palm Springs. She is also the daughter of real Hollywood actress and legend Lana Turner, whose second husband was stabbed to death and for which Cheryl pled guilty. The case was ruled as justifiable homicide as Crane was protecting her mother from a man who was known to be violent and abusive. However, rather than this being a dark and bitter book, it is absolutely delightful.
There are three critical elements for which I look when I read: characters, dialogue and plot. Ms Crane scored very high marks on all the points.
In contrast to the setting of the rich and famous, Nikki is a delightful protagonist. In spite of her collection of high-end watches, she drives a Prius, doesn’t generally wear designer shoes or clothes and is self-supporting. Although, due to her upbringing, she is connected to the Hollywood glitterati, she’s seen behind the screen and isn’t impressed. This is refreshing for although the book is filled with famous names and labels, you realize these are simply part of the character’s life more than being there to impress. Nikki’s mother, Victoria, is an absolute gem. She is Hollywood nobility but with good sense and an understanding of the importance of treating everyone with respect. The relationship between them is a realistic combination of love, affection, frustration and exasperation.
Crane has an excellent ear for dialogue. It’s natural, crisp, often funny and occasionally touching. The only weakness was in trying to capture the sound of a deep Southern accent in print. It slowed down the pace of reading and just didn’t really work.
The plot was so well done. Crane uses Nikki’s background, similar to Crane’s own, to explain her distrust of the police and why she felt compelled to investigate the murder. She followed the clues, worked with others, and never came up as TSTL (too stupid to live). She did a wonderful job creating plot twists and red herrings without their ever feeling contrived or awkward. Even if you think you know the killer, you’re not at all certain until the very end.
The story is refreshing in that there is almost no profanity but neither is it so sweet it makes your teeth hurt. The language is occasionally euphemistic rather than profane and the story is without either graphic sex or violence. It will be interesting to see Ms. Crane develop as a writer and Nikki develop as a character.
“THE BAD ALWAYS DIE TWICE” is a very good book multiple generations of readers could enjoy, and should so do.
THE BAD ALWAYS DIE TWICE (Ama Sleuth-Nikki Harper-Los Angeles-Cont) - VG
Crane, Cheryl – 1st in series
New York: Kensington Books, ©2011
January 21, 2012
You can also read this review at Reflections on Reading Romance
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
I won this book from Goodreads First Reads program, which was a nice surprise, because I probably wouldn't have purchased it for myself if I had seen it on the shelf in the bookstore. (Note to publisher - that cover is HORRIBLE!!) Cheryl Crane is the daughter of actress Lana Turner, and there are semi-autobiographical touches throughout the book, which add an air of verisimilitude. I believe this is Ms. Crane’s first novel, although she has published other non-fiction works in the past. While there are a few glitches that detracted from my enjoyment of the mystery, Nikki Harper was a likeable character with a strong voice, and I'll definitely be looking forward to reading the next Nikki Harper mystery.
Hollywood realtor Nikki Harper is the daughter of 50s bombshell Victoria Bordeaux and is celebrating the recent sale of the white elephant mansion of TV has been actor, Rex March. But only a few days later, Rex March’s body is discovered in the bed of Nikki’s best friend and business partner, Jessica Martin. What makes the discovery so bizarre is that Rex supposedly died 6 months earlier in a fiery plane crash. Nikki finds herself trying to clear Jessica’s name, and as the investigation progresses, we meet some of Hollywood’s quirkiest characters. But Nikki soon begins to wonder if trying to clear Jessica’s name has attracted the killer’s attention to this realtor turned P.I.
There are many things to like about this mystery. Ms. Crane's writing is smooth and easy to read, and Nikki Harper's character is very likeable and down to earth. I love the relationship she has with her 50s movie star mother, Victoria Bordeaux and all the glimpses of old Hollywood glamour. Victoria and Nikki come across as real people you would want to spend time with, and Nikki’s friends and family make up a zany but loveable supporting cast. Also, you'll really enjoy Nikki's voice, which I think promises well for Ms. Crane's future novels.
I would have rated this book a 4 if it were not for a few small complaints. The first is that Nikki's best friend, Jessica, is really obnoxious. When Jessica is accused of murdering a former client and lover, Nikki immediately steps up to investigate what's going on, but Jessica is so unlikeable that it was hard for me to understand why Nikki would be her friend, much less such a loyal friend that she's willing to snoop around to clear her friend's name.
The second complaint is that there are small hints of a romantic relationship for Nikki, but these never really materialize into anything. If the relationship is going to be important, I would like it to be a more central part of Nikki's life. If it's not, then I'm not sure the character even needs to be included, because his presence doesn't add much to the narrative arc.
All of that aside, this was a pleasant read with a well thought-out mystery. Nikki Harper was such a likeable character that I kept turning the pages, and the secondary characters that make up her support system (her mother and several friends) were delightful.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
I won this book from Goodreads First Reads program, which was a nice surprise, because I probably wouldn't have purchased it for myself if I had seen it on the shelf in the bookstore. (Note to publisher - that cover is HORRIBLE!!) Cheryl Crane is the daughter of actress Lana Turner, and there are semi-autobiographical touches throughout the book, which add an air of verisimilitude. I believe this is Ms. Crane’s first novel, although she has published other non-fiction works in the past. While there are a few glitches that detracted from my enjoyment of the mystery, Nikki Harper was a likeable character with a strong voice, and I'll definitely be looking forward to reading the next Nikki Harper mystery.
Hollywood realtor Nikki Harper is the daughter of 50s bombshell Victoria Bordeaux and is celebrating the recent sale of the white elephant mansion of TV has been actor, Rex March. But only a few days later, Rex March’s body is discovered in the bed of Nikki’s best friend and business partner, Jessica Martin. What makes the discovery so bizarre is that Rex supposedly died 6 months earlier in a fiery plane crash. Nikki finds herself trying to clear Jessica’s name, and as the investigation progresses, we meet some of Hollywood’s quirkiest characters. But Nikki soon begins to wonder if trying to clear Jessica’s name has attracted the killer’s attention to this realtor turned P.I.
There are many things to like about this mystery. Ms. Crane's writing is smooth and easy to read, and Nikki Harper's character is very likeable and down to earth. I love the relationship she has with her 50s movie star mother, Victoria Bordeaux and all the glimpses of old Hollywood glamour. Victoria and Nikki come across as real people you would want to spend time with, and Nikki’s friends and family make up a zany but loveable supporting cast. Also, you'll really enjoy Nikki's voice, which I think promises well for Ms. Crane's future novels.
I would have rated this book a 4 if it were not for a few small complaints. The first is that Nikki's best friend, Jessica, is really obnoxious. When Jessica is accused of murdering a former client and lover, Nikki immediately steps up to investigate what's going on, but Jessica is so unlikeable that it was hard for me to understand why Nikki would be her friend, much less such a loyal friend that she's willing to snoop around to clear her friend's name.
The second complaint is that there are small hints of a romantic relationship for Nikki, but these never really materialize into anything. If the relationship is going to be important, I would like it to be a more central part of Nikki's life. If it's not, then I'm not sure the character even needs to be included, because his presence doesn't add much to the narrative arc.
All of that aside, this was a pleasant read with a well thought-out mystery. Nikki Harper was such a likeable character that I kept turning the pages, and the secondary characters that make up her support system (her mother and several friends) were delightful.
October 20, 2011
As a devout and obsessive reader, I am always delighted to discover a new author and/or a new series that I can follow. While author Cheryl Crane is not new to me (her autobiographical account Detour is fascinating and de rigeur Hollywood reading), her new series involving realtor and intrepid detective Nikki Harper is. And if The Bad Always Die Twice is any indication, the series will be a wonderfully pleasing diversion that any reader can eagerly revel in.
I'm not certain which aspect of The Bad Always Die Twice I liked better - - the amateur sleuthing or the classic Hollywood connection. The sleuthing, performed with a stealth like grace by heroine Nikki, was entertaining, breath stopping and nervewracking. Nikki proved to be a feisty character, a tenacious lady who appears to live by the motto "all things are possible". She simply cannot be kept down and she doesn't give up. I immensely enjoyed her as a heroine; she was smart, quick and self sufficient and established herself quickly as a very devoted friend and daughter.
But let's talk about Nikki's mother, the regal, classy and very indomitable Victoria Bordeaux. Victoria was a 1950s movie actress, a sexy siren who still lives her every day as the very elegent star she was once was (and still is for many fans). I absolutely and positively loved her with the passion of a thousand suns. Maybe it was due to author Cheryl Crane's own famous mother but throughout the book, I visualized Lana Turner as Victoria Bordeaux and just thrilled at every scene that included her. To say that Victoria was a scene stealer would be a drastic understatement - - this lady owned every page she was on!
Between these two incredible female characters is indeed a mystery, a "whodunit?", that is clever and will keep you guessing until the end. I was surprised by the reveal, not disappointed in the least, and gratified that Ms. Crane didn't insert characters/plots/red herrings that did not pay off in the end.
Despite being a realtor herself in her "other" life, Ms. Crane is a very adept and able writer. The dialogue is fresh, not forced or stilted, and the characters are a fun panorama of L.A. area residents. Purveyors of home and garden goods will love the references to property amenities while fashion junkies will excite to the designer handbags and shoes. The pages will fly by as you read The Bad Always Die Twice and, if you are like me, you will be left anxious to return to the glamorous Victoria Bordeaux and her Movie Nights with daughter Nikki and her two beloved dogs. The Bad Always Die Twice is the kind of book that you simply won't be able to put down, nor will you want to. Highly recommended and I would beg of Ms. Crane to please include generous doses of Victoria Bordeaux in future books!
Review Copyright © Psychotic State Book Reviews
http://www.psychoticstate.net
I'm not certain which aspect of The Bad Always Die Twice I liked better - - the amateur sleuthing or the classic Hollywood connection. The sleuthing, performed with a stealth like grace by heroine Nikki, was entertaining, breath stopping and nervewracking. Nikki proved to be a feisty character, a tenacious lady who appears to live by the motto "all things are possible". She simply cannot be kept down and she doesn't give up. I immensely enjoyed her as a heroine; she was smart, quick and self sufficient and established herself quickly as a very devoted friend and daughter.
But let's talk about Nikki's mother, the regal, classy and very indomitable Victoria Bordeaux. Victoria was a 1950s movie actress, a sexy siren who still lives her every day as the very elegent star she was once was (and still is for many fans). I absolutely and positively loved her with the passion of a thousand suns. Maybe it was due to author Cheryl Crane's own famous mother but throughout the book, I visualized Lana Turner as Victoria Bordeaux and just thrilled at every scene that included her. To say that Victoria was a scene stealer would be a drastic understatement - - this lady owned every page she was on!
Between these two incredible female characters is indeed a mystery, a "whodunit?", that is clever and will keep you guessing until the end. I was surprised by the reveal, not disappointed in the least, and gratified that Ms. Crane didn't insert characters/plots/red herrings that did not pay off in the end.
Despite being a realtor herself in her "other" life, Ms. Crane is a very adept and able writer. The dialogue is fresh, not forced or stilted, and the characters are a fun panorama of L.A. area residents. Purveyors of home and garden goods will love the references to property amenities while fashion junkies will excite to the designer handbags and shoes. The pages will fly by as you read The Bad Always Die Twice and, if you are like me, you will be left anxious to return to the glamorous Victoria Bordeaux and her Movie Nights with daughter Nikki and her two beloved dogs. The Bad Always Die Twice is the kind of book that you simply won't be able to put down, nor will you want to. Highly recommended and I would beg of Ms. Crane to please include generous doses of Victoria Bordeaux in future books!
Review Copyright © Psychotic State Book Reviews
http://www.psychoticstate.net
October 28, 2012
This was a fun read. When it comes to the backside of Hollywood, you have to admit that Cheryl Crane, daughter of screen legend Lana Turner, really knows her stuff. The Bad Always Die Twice is a Hollywood murder mystery with all of the fun details that only an insider would know.
Nikki Harper is a Hollywood real estate agent, selling those megamillion dollar mansions in the hills with her partner, Jessica Martin. They are young, pretty, celebrity-savvy girls:
“One of Jessica’s most endearing qualities was that she wasn’t any more impressed by celebrities than Nikki was. Their only difference was that Nikki had grown up with them and Jessica slept with them. The combination of their personalities made them a great team at work.”
Sort of sets the tone for their interaction. Jessica is the pretty, flashy girl who flirts with the gentlemen clients and reels them in. Nikki is less flashy, with a more understated style, and the Hollywood chops to make the deals. And when Jessica is accused of murder, Nikki puts those Tinseltown connections to work.
The real star of the story is Victoria Bordeaux. She is stunningly beautiful, incredibly poised, an old-school screen goddess in the style of, well, Lana Turner. She is also Nikki’s mother. Nikki’s relationship with her mother and her mother’s particular flair for dealing with people are the best parts of the book. Nikki is a great character, with a complicated love life, interesting friends and the sort of foibles that will make her a fun read. Still, Victoria is what will keep me coming back — you can just tell that she’s going to be very involved in whatever Nikki does…and that’s not a bad thing at all.
I was a little wary taking this on — sometimes you suspect that a writer got their contract based more on a celebrity pedigree than their writing talent — but it was a real pleasure. I would certainly enjoy picking up the next Nikki Harper mystery.
Nikki Harper is a Hollywood real estate agent, selling those megamillion dollar mansions in the hills with her partner, Jessica Martin. They are young, pretty, celebrity-savvy girls:
“One of Jessica’s most endearing qualities was that she wasn’t any more impressed by celebrities than Nikki was. Their only difference was that Nikki had grown up with them and Jessica slept with them. The combination of their personalities made them a great team at work.”
Sort of sets the tone for their interaction. Jessica is the pretty, flashy girl who flirts with the gentlemen clients and reels them in. Nikki is less flashy, with a more understated style, and the Hollywood chops to make the deals. And when Jessica is accused of murder, Nikki puts those Tinseltown connections to work.
The real star of the story is Victoria Bordeaux. She is stunningly beautiful, incredibly poised, an old-school screen goddess in the style of, well, Lana Turner. She is also Nikki’s mother. Nikki’s relationship with her mother and her mother’s particular flair for dealing with people are the best parts of the book. Nikki is a great character, with a complicated love life, interesting friends and the sort of foibles that will make her a fun read. Still, Victoria is what will keep me coming back — you can just tell that she’s going to be very involved in whatever Nikki does…and that’s not a bad thing at all.
I was a little wary taking this on — sometimes you suspect that a writer got their contract based more on a celebrity pedigree than their writing talent — but it was a real pleasure. I would certainly enjoy picking up the next Nikki Harper mystery.
August 6, 2011
I had a great time reading this "traditional mystery" garbed in Hollywood style. The protagonist is a winner, the plot is well above average, and my weekend lightened right up. Way to go, Cheryl Crane!
September 11, 2020
This is a great series. (I've read them out of order). Love all the head nods to movie & tv stars. Well written and a fun read.
August 29, 2011
I admit, I was curious to see what Ms Crane would come up with. She has a heck of a back story of her own and there are certain similarities between the main character and Ms Crane. There's a saying for writers, "Write what you know" and Ms Crane took that to heart. She sets the story in Hollywood, the lead is a daughter of blond bombshell movie star and there are vague references to her father being murdered and hints that she may have been involved. That said, Ms Crane used those familiar events and places to write a story all her own.
The blurb describes the story as "partly the glitz and glamour of Jackie Collins novels and partly the LA streets of hard-boiled James Ellroy." I'm not a fan of hard boiled detective mysteries so I had some qualms about how well I'd enjoy this; to be honest, I didn't find it to be a hard boiled mystery at all but more Joan Collins writes a cozy mystery set in Hollywood. That's an odd sounding blend, I grant you, but it works.
It has all the earmarks of a cozy, except that it's set in the big city of Hollywood: a female lead who is not a law and order professional, likable characters, eccentric or slightly unusual secondary characters, somewhat fast paced with twists and turns (there were a number of red herrings throughout the story), a good friend with access to police reports (I really hope that we'll see more of Marshall and Rob in future books. I loved them!) and no graphic violence, no profanity (there was one crude, but very funny and quite descriptive sentence, but overall, a "clean" book), and no explicit sex.
Nikki, despite her background and her comfortable lifestyle, really seems like she could easily be your next door neighbor or the woman you say hi to each morning at the coffee shop. She has a level head and is very loyal. It's that loyalty that sets her investigation in motion. She's worried about her friend and co-worker Jessica being charged with murder and she doesn't trust the police so she conducts her own investigation. Crane hints at the reasons for Nikki's distrust but keeps it vague; I found that frustrating at times as that distrust is key to Nikki's investigation. I am hoping that she will address it more directly in the next book.
Nikki quickly realizes that conducting a murder investigation is hard work and she doesn't know what she's doing. Fortunately, she's open to advice and willing to ask for help. Her mother, semi-retired movie star Victoria Bordeaux, is against Nikki's involvment, as it would be scandalous, but that doesn't stop her from helping. Indeed at one point, she nearly takes over. Nikki doesn't hesitate to make use of her fame, her mother's fame, or her mother's connections to clear her friend's name.
Victoria borders at times on being stereotypical but then Crane will flesh her out with little details; my favorite was the telephone conversation between her and the 80 year old grandmother of one of Nikki's informants. Victoria manages to be gracious and down to earth at the same time, trading recipes even as she admits that she's never made potato salad and will have her housekeeper do it.
Crane has a light, easy writing style and manages to drop the occasional brand name or celebrity name while still keeping the story from feeling trendy or dated. That could be a problem with a series set in Hollywood but she avoided it.
The story dragged a little at times, mostly in the middle and the ending was a let down. The final confrontations are very staged and suffer from deux a machina. During the course of the story I kept changing my mind about who the murderer was but I kept going back to one name and it turned out that I was right. Crane takes a circuitous route, with twists and turns and red herrings and just when you think you've figured it out, WHAM! another surprise.
This was a pleasant, engrossing, enjoyable book and I'm looking forward to more in this series.
I received this ARC from the publisher for review.
The blurb describes the story as "partly the glitz and glamour of Jackie Collins novels and partly the LA streets of hard-boiled James Ellroy." I'm not a fan of hard boiled detective mysteries so I had some qualms about how well I'd enjoy this; to be honest, I didn't find it to be a hard boiled mystery at all but more Joan Collins writes a cozy mystery set in Hollywood. That's an odd sounding blend, I grant you, but it works.
It has all the earmarks of a cozy, except that it's set in the big city of Hollywood: a female lead who is not a law and order professional, likable characters, eccentric or slightly unusual secondary characters, somewhat fast paced with twists and turns (there were a number of red herrings throughout the story), a good friend with access to police reports (I really hope that we'll see more of Marshall and Rob in future books. I loved them!) and no graphic violence, no profanity (there was one crude, but very funny and quite descriptive sentence, but overall, a "clean" book), and no explicit sex.
Nikki, despite her background and her comfortable lifestyle, really seems like she could easily be your next door neighbor or the woman you say hi to each morning at the coffee shop. She has a level head and is very loyal. It's that loyalty that sets her investigation in motion. She's worried about her friend and co-worker Jessica being charged with murder and she doesn't trust the police so she conducts her own investigation. Crane hints at the reasons for Nikki's distrust but keeps it vague; I found that frustrating at times as that distrust is key to Nikki's investigation. I am hoping that she will address it more directly in the next book.
Nikki quickly realizes that conducting a murder investigation is hard work and she doesn't know what she's doing. Fortunately, she's open to advice and willing to ask for help. Her mother, semi-retired movie star Victoria Bordeaux, is against Nikki's involvment, as it would be scandalous, but that doesn't stop her from helping. Indeed at one point, she nearly takes over. Nikki doesn't hesitate to make use of her fame, her mother's fame, or her mother's connections to clear her friend's name.
Victoria borders at times on being stereotypical but then Crane will flesh her out with little details; my favorite was the telephone conversation between her and the 80 year old grandmother of one of Nikki's informants. Victoria manages to be gracious and down to earth at the same time, trading recipes even as she admits that she's never made potato salad and will have her housekeeper do it.
Crane has a light, easy writing style and manages to drop the occasional brand name or celebrity name while still keeping the story from feeling trendy or dated. That could be a problem with a series set in Hollywood but she avoided it.
The story dragged a little at times, mostly in the middle and the ending was a let down. The final confrontations are very staged and suffer from deux a machina. During the course of the story I kept changing my mind about who the murderer was but I kept going back to one name and it turned out that I was right. Crane takes a circuitous route, with twists and turns and red herrings and just when you think you've figured it out, WHAM! another surprise.
This was a pleasant, engrossing, enjoyable book and I'm looking forward to more in this series.
I received this ARC from the publisher for review.
September 7, 2011
The Bad Always Die Twice
By Cheryl Crane
Copyright August 2011
Publisher Kensington
For Nikki Harper, realtor to the stars and daughter of 1950s screen goddess Victoria Bordeaux, Hollywood is home. A completely dysfunctional home populated by a cast of crazies, true, but home nonetheless. While Nikki's no stranger to scandal, she's shocked to receive a hysterical phone call from her business partner, Jessica Martin, saying that TV has-been Rex March has been found dead in Jessica's bed.
More shocking than Rex's death is the fact that, as far as anyone knew, Rex was already dead. Six months ago, the star of the seventies sitcom Shipwrecked Vacation was supposedly killed when his plane crashed in the Mojave Desert. Nikki and Jessica recently sold his mansion on behalf of his widow, Edith. It's obvious to Nikki that Jessica is being framed, but by whom? And why? And how on earth can Rex be dead a second time?
In search of answers, Nikki turns to the one person she can always count on. From her pink boudoir in her Beverly Hills mansion, the ever-glamorous Victoria suggests Nikki focus her sleuthing on Rex's not-so-grieving widow. And there's a veritable casting couch full of other candidates, including Edith's boy-toy lover, Rex's scheming lawyer (like there's any other kind), and the diner waitress with whom Rex was having one of his numerous affairs. But with the killer readying for a repeat performance, Nikki will have to act fast—before her own screen fades to black. . .
Nicolette Harper was raised in the middle of the Hollywood hype, her mother a world famous movie star. Now, Nikki Harper, all grown up, and not needing to work for a living, spends her time selling high end homes in the Hollywood and Beverly Hills Real Estate business. She partners with her best friend Jessica Martin and between them they enjoy their work and the people they meet.
Nikki and Jessica are at a party hosted by Edith March, the widow of TV has – been Rex March, whose house they had sold for her. Nikki is not a party person and as soon as she’s talked to her hostess, and seen her mother make her famous entrance she’s off and heading home to take care of her two dogs. Little knowing that she is going to be drawn into a murder that will dredge up her feelings about her own father’s murder years ago and her distrust of the police in finding the killer. The biggest question of course is Rex died in a plane crash, how can his newly dead body turn up on Jessica’s bed.
This is the first book in Cheryl Crane’s new real estate murder mysteries. I wouldn’t quite call them cozies. I would call them well written, reader involved, and a book you won’t want to put down till you finish it.
FTC Full Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher with their hope that I would read it and write a review.
By Cheryl Crane
Copyright August 2011
Publisher Kensington
For Nikki Harper, realtor to the stars and daughter of 1950s screen goddess Victoria Bordeaux, Hollywood is home. A completely dysfunctional home populated by a cast of crazies, true, but home nonetheless. While Nikki's no stranger to scandal, she's shocked to receive a hysterical phone call from her business partner, Jessica Martin, saying that TV has-been Rex March has been found dead in Jessica's bed.
More shocking than Rex's death is the fact that, as far as anyone knew, Rex was already dead. Six months ago, the star of the seventies sitcom Shipwrecked Vacation was supposedly killed when his plane crashed in the Mojave Desert. Nikki and Jessica recently sold his mansion on behalf of his widow, Edith. It's obvious to Nikki that Jessica is being framed, but by whom? And why? And how on earth can Rex be dead a second time?
In search of answers, Nikki turns to the one person she can always count on. From her pink boudoir in her Beverly Hills mansion, the ever-glamorous Victoria suggests Nikki focus her sleuthing on Rex's not-so-grieving widow. And there's a veritable casting couch full of other candidates, including Edith's boy-toy lover, Rex's scheming lawyer (like there's any other kind), and the diner waitress with whom Rex was having one of his numerous affairs. But with the killer readying for a repeat performance, Nikki will have to act fast—before her own screen fades to black. . .
Nicolette Harper was raised in the middle of the Hollywood hype, her mother a world famous movie star. Now, Nikki Harper, all grown up, and not needing to work for a living, spends her time selling high end homes in the Hollywood and Beverly Hills Real Estate business. She partners with her best friend Jessica Martin and between them they enjoy their work and the people they meet.
Nikki and Jessica are at a party hosted by Edith March, the widow of TV has – been Rex March, whose house they had sold for her. Nikki is not a party person and as soon as she’s talked to her hostess, and seen her mother make her famous entrance she’s off and heading home to take care of her two dogs. Little knowing that she is going to be drawn into a murder that will dredge up her feelings about her own father’s murder years ago and her distrust of the police in finding the killer. The biggest question of course is Rex died in a plane crash, how can his newly dead body turn up on Jessica’s bed.
This is the first book in Cheryl Crane’s new real estate murder mysteries. I wouldn’t quite call them cozies. I would call them well written, reader involved, and a book you won’t want to put down till you finish it.
FTC Full Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher with their hope that I would read it and write a review.
August 27, 2011
I'm giving "The Bad Always Die Twice" 3.5 stars.
Mystery is normally not my normal read, but I thought I would dip my toes into the water anyways. I was very pleasantly surprised! While mystery will not likely be my favorite genre, I did enjoy "The Bad Always Die Twice". With every page I had a new suspect in my head and Ms. Crane kept me guessing all the way up to the end.
Not too many people missed Rex March when he died the first time around and even less the second time. He was a philanderer and the world basically said good riddance. He was a one hit wonder who was living off an old 1970’s family comedy. Ego is the only thing Rex had and he had that in abundance. His first death was ruled as a freak accident, but his second was murder. It’s up to Nikki Harper to figure out who did it, because she knows her friend Jessica sure didn’t do it.
Nikki is the daughter of the fifties screen goddess, actress Victoria Bordeaux. Always in her mother shadow, Nikki is just fine with that and enjoys her life as a real estate agent to the stars. Being the daughter of the actress does have its perks though and sales are one of them.
Jessica Martin is a known man eater. She is a love them and use them type, not a murderer. So when Jessica comes home after a daylong real estate seminar and finds Rex, dead in her bed, she calls her best friend Nikki for support and help.
Suspects are endless; Edith March – the wife, Thompson Christopher - the wife’s new boy toy, Alex Ramirez - the slimy lawyer, Tiffany Mathews - the young jilted lover and countless others. Nikki has her hands full discovering the truth.
"The Bad Always Die Twice" is a well written mystery. Ms. Crane will keep you guessing and I enjoyed how she intertwined current events and celebrities into her story. I’m not sure if it was Ms. Crane’s intention, but the constant noting of product name dropping, stood out to me. It said to me that L.A. was extremely materialistic and in the end almost was a subplot all its own.
I really enjoyed the interaction between Nikki and her mother, Victoria. She made Victoria a real person to me. While Victoria was all glimmer and glamour, I relished in her human side. I had several laugh out loud moments with her antics. I can see myself continuing to read about Nikki’s adventures just to see what her mother is up to.
"The Bad Always Die Twice" is a decadent decent into the underbelly of glamorous Hollywood. Gossip is never ending and secrets never stay hidden for long. So grab a drink and put on your Jimmy Choos, because you want to be styling when you step into Ms. Crane’s world.
Mystery is normally not my normal read, but I thought I would dip my toes into the water anyways. I was very pleasantly surprised! While mystery will not likely be my favorite genre, I did enjoy "The Bad Always Die Twice". With every page I had a new suspect in my head and Ms. Crane kept me guessing all the way up to the end.
Not too many people missed Rex March when he died the first time around and even less the second time. He was a philanderer and the world basically said good riddance. He was a one hit wonder who was living off an old 1970’s family comedy. Ego is the only thing Rex had and he had that in abundance. His first death was ruled as a freak accident, but his second was murder. It’s up to Nikki Harper to figure out who did it, because she knows her friend Jessica sure didn’t do it.
Nikki is the daughter of the fifties screen goddess, actress Victoria Bordeaux. Always in her mother shadow, Nikki is just fine with that and enjoys her life as a real estate agent to the stars. Being the daughter of the actress does have its perks though and sales are one of them.
Jessica Martin is a known man eater. She is a love them and use them type, not a murderer. So when Jessica comes home after a daylong real estate seminar and finds Rex, dead in her bed, she calls her best friend Nikki for support and help.
Suspects are endless; Edith March – the wife, Thompson Christopher - the wife’s new boy toy, Alex Ramirez - the slimy lawyer, Tiffany Mathews - the young jilted lover and countless others. Nikki has her hands full discovering the truth.
"The Bad Always Die Twice" is a well written mystery. Ms. Crane will keep you guessing and I enjoyed how she intertwined current events and celebrities into her story. I’m not sure if it was Ms. Crane’s intention, but the constant noting of product name dropping, stood out to me. It said to me that L.A. was extremely materialistic and in the end almost was a subplot all its own.
I really enjoyed the interaction between Nikki and her mother, Victoria. She made Victoria a real person to me. While Victoria was all glimmer and glamour, I relished in her human side. I had several laugh out loud moments with her antics. I can see myself continuing to read about Nikki’s adventures just to see what her mother is up to.
"The Bad Always Die Twice" is a decadent decent into the underbelly of glamorous Hollywood. Gossip is never ending and secrets never stay hidden for long. So grab a drink and put on your Jimmy Choos, because you want to be styling when you step into Ms. Crane’s world.
September 23, 2011
"A Heady Blend of Elegance, Murder and Intrigue"
Nikki Harper wears many hats; Beloved Daughter of Screen Star, Victoria Bordeaux, Real Estate Broker and Partner of promiscuous Jessica Martin, and Girlfriend of widower, Jeremy. After the sale of wealthy Edith March’s Outpost Estates Mansion, due to the death two months earlier of Edith’s philandering Husband and former TV Star, Rex March in a plane crash, Edith threw a lavish Farewell Party to bid goodbye to her old life, mansion and …Rex. Nikki ,Jessica and Victoria all attended the celebrity-studded affair. It was later that evening, while at her Mother’s home, that Nikki received a hysterical phone call from Jessica, saying Rex March’s dead body was not missing in the desert, but was in her bed!! And the police have her pegged as a prime suspect!! Nikki responds to Jessica’s distress call and “dons” another cap—that of amateur P.I. and digs for clues to prove Jessica’s innocence and to discover who did murder the now-truly-deceased Rex March and why. Nikki leaves no stone unturned as she investigates many mysterious, dark avenues concerning Rex and his acquaintances. She wanted to make sure the police didn’t miss a clue like they had in her late Father’s murder. But who wanted Rex dead? Who would benefit the most? Who would want to frame Jessica? Edith March? The woman scorned more times than you have fingers, as well as being the widow trying to start a new life with a “New Love”?? Edith’s “Boy-Toy”, Thompson Christopher, who everyone wondered about his ulterior motives where Edith is concerned? Tiffany Matthews; the Southern Belle/Waitress who had received promises of love and tropical island life from Rex?? Rex’s unscrupulous lawyer and agent, Alex Ramirez, who only had his own interests at heart, instead of his clients’? Ms. Crane has woven a tale of intrigue with a generous sprinkling of the elegant “Golden Age of the Silver Screen”, that will keep you guessing right up to the last chapter. I’m truly looking forward to the next Nikki Harper adventure. Nancy Narma
Nikki Harper wears many hats; Beloved Daughter of Screen Star, Victoria Bordeaux, Real Estate Broker and Partner of promiscuous Jessica Martin, and Girlfriend of widower, Jeremy. After the sale of wealthy Edith March’s Outpost Estates Mansion, due to the death two months earlier of Edith’s philandering Husband and former TV Star, Rex March in a plane crash, Edith threw a lavish Farewell Party to bid goodbye to her old life, mansion and …Rex. Nikki ,Jessica and Victoria all attended the celebrity-studded affair. It was later that evening, while at her Mother’s home, that Nikki received a hysterical phone call from Jessica, saying Rex March’s dead body was not missing in the desert, but was in her bed!! And the police have her pegged as a prime suspect!! Nikki responds to Jessica’s distress call and “dons” another cap—that of amateur P.I. and digs for clues to prove Jessica’s innocence and to discover who did murder the now-truly-deceased Rex March and why. Nikki leaves no stone unturned as she investigates many mysterious, dark avenues concerning Rex and his acquaintances. She wanted to make sure the police didn’t miss a clue like they had in her late Father’s murder. But who wanted Rex dead? Who would benefit the most? Who would want to frame Jessica? Edith March? The woman scorned more times than you have fingers, as well as being the widow trying to start a new life with a “New Love”?? Edith’s “Boy-Toy”, Thompson Christopher, who everyone wondered about his ulterior motives where Edith is concerned? Tiffany Matthews; the Southern Belle/Waitress who had received promises of love and tropical island life from Rex?? Rex’s unscrupulous lawyer and agent, Alex Ramirez, who only had his own interests at heart, instead of his clients’? Ms. Crane has woven a tale of intrigue with a generous sprinkling of the elegant “Golden Age of the Silver Screen”, that will keep you guessing right up to the last chapter. I’m truly looking forward to the next Nikki Harper adventure. Nancy Narma
May 26, 2017
3.5* Delightful, cute, amusing, engaging. Enjoyed this light 'read' (audiobook) a lot.
April 13, 2018
liked very much ,easy to read and follow
August 19, 2024
Great Read….it was well written, fun, and lite….especially considering it was based on a primary murder suspect ….who was the best friend of a Hollywood stars daughter and the
“go-to“ realtor to the rich & famous. Nickie is shocked when her real estate associate (BFF)….finds an ex-lover dead in her condo & about to be charged with murder.
Nickie & her Mom(perhaps based on the real-life character Lana Turner,her real, real Mom) go into their full-on P.I. Mode and they both pull out their charm, their humble but assertive skills, their connections, and their polite attitude to using Hollywood’s base workers (ie bellmen, desk clerks, cashiers, servers, bartenders and friends backrooms(The Help ‘’) to their full advantage;always being caring , looking them in the eye, bearing gift’s & autographs & more…..neither Mom nor daughter trust the Hollywood police & detectives, so Nickie takes the reins to keep her best friend out of jail.
Alot of suspects with a full-on Hollywood ending.
“go-to“ realtor to the rich & famous. Nickie is shocked when her real estate associate (BFF)….finds an ex-lover dead in her condo & about to be charged with murder.
Nickie & her Mom(perhaps based on the real-life character Lana Turner,her real, real Mom) go into their full-on P.I. Mode and they both pull out their charm, their humble but assertive skills, their connections, and their polite attitude to using Hollywood’s base workers (ie bellmen, desk clerks, cashiers, servers, bartenders and friends backrooms(The Help ‘’) to their full advantage;always being caring , looking them in the eye, bearing gift’s & autographs & more…..neither Mom nor daughter trust the Hollywood police & detectives, so Nickie takes the reins to keep her best friend out of jail.
Alot of suspects with a full-on Hollywood ending.
April 19, 2020
I enjoyed this mystery. How can someone die twice?
Just about everyone who knew the victim is a liar. Or misinformed. Or just delusional.
There were very few characters I liked. Certainly Nikki and her Mom. And Jessica's elderly neighbor.
I don't know if this celebrity author has any further insights, but I may try another in this series.
I borrowed a copy from the public library.
Just about everyone who knew the victim is a liar. Or misinformed. Or just delusional.
There were very few characters I liked. Certainly Nikki and her Mom. And Jessica's elderly neighbor.
I don't know if this celebrity author has any further insights, but I may try another in this series.
I borrowed a copy from the public library.
March 17, 2023
this isn't the most well written book. The author uses the same sentences again and again. The editing is not great but it is a pacy read with likeable characters and a series I might turn to again for challenges
Want to read
November 5, 2018Synopsis: Nikki Harper, daughter of a Hollywood legend, is a realtor. The husband of a recent buyer, thought deceased, has been found murdered.
November 21, 2019
Fun and twisty read.
January 11, 2021
I struggled staying interested in this book, but that may be because I'm not a fan of crime type books.
October 24, 2023
A good mystery.
December 22, 2024
Pretty typical amateur sleuth story, but the characters are fun and mystery wasn’t too easy.
January 16, 2012
When Nikki Harper heard about Rex March's death by airplane, she was sympathetic. However, a few months after his funeral, she acquired a new client, Edith March. Edith wants to sell the monstrosity of a mansion she and Rex owned, and she wants Nikki to be her realtor.
Nikki is the daughter of golden age screen star, Victoria Bordeaux. She's wealthy in her own right and doesn't need to work, but she enjoys what she does. She and her partner, Jessica Martin, make their living selling real estate for the rich and famous.
So when Jessica calls Nikki late one evening screeching for help, Nikki rushes to help. Jessica had come home from a seminar and found Rex March's dead body in her bed. The cops want Jessica for the murder, her alibi isn't that tight. But Nikki knows Jessica is innocent. You can't kill someone who is already dead.
Nikki decides to do some investigation work on her own to prove Jessica's innocence. Jessica has always had a thing about rich older men, so she isn't shocked when she finds out that Jessica had been seeing Rex before he died. She is, though, shocked that she kept it a secret. Nikki's mom urges her to question Edith and her new young boy toy, but there reaction to Nikki's questions is unusual.
As the clues become revealed, Nikki begins to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Who killed Rex March, not once, but twice? And why?
The Bad Always Die Twice is an entertaining mystery with a cast of spectacular characters. I really enjoyed Nikki's famous mother, she was pure entertainment who really was very insightful. Nikki's character was a delight, much like an onion, the layers were peeled away as the story progressed, giving the reader a deeper look into the way her mind worked and her heart. The writing was quick-paced and the plot unfolded at a steady rate, keeping me thoroughly entertained, turning the pages. I look forward to reading more from author Cheryl Crane and would love to read more about Nikki Harper in future works!
Nikki is the daughter of golden age screen star, Victoria Bordeaux. She's wealthy in her own right and doesn't need to work, but she enjoys what she does. She and her partner, Jessica Martin, make their living selling real estate for the rich and famous.
So when Jessica calls Nikki late one evening screeching for help, Nikki rushes to help. Jessica had come home from a seminar and found Rex March's dead body in her bed. The cops want Jessica for the murder, her alibi isn't that tight. But Nikki knows Jessica is innocent. You can't kill someone who is already dead.
Nikki decides to do some investigation work on her own to prove Jessica's innocence. Jessica has always had a thing about rich older men, so she isn't shocked when she finds out that Jessica had been seeing Rex before he died. She is, though, shocked that she kept it a secret. Nikki's mom urges her to question Edith and her new young boy toy, but there reaction to Nikki's questions is unusual.
As the clues become revealed, Nikki begins to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Who killed Rex March, not once, but twice? And why?
The Bad Always Die Twice is an entertaining mystery with a cast of spectacular characters. I really enjoyed Nikki's famous mother, she was pure entertainment who really was very insightful. Nikki's character was a delight, much like an onion, the layers were peeled away as the story progressed, giving the reader a deeper look into the way her mind worked and her heart. The writing was quick-paced and the plot unfolded at a steady rate, keeping me thoroughly entertained, turning the pages. I look forward to reading more from author Cheryl Crane and would love to read more about Nikki Harper in future works!
January 24, 2022
Not bad. Definitely not a serious, hard-hitting murder mystery; more like an entertaining piece of fluff that's a fun read and has enough realistic details to keep my interest. Of course, the whole premise of the book: a real estate agent playing amateur private detective to solve a murder, is completely ridiculous, but Ms. Crane keeps it just realistic enough that I didn't give up on it. I'm also guessing at the parallels between Nikki and her mother, Victoria Bordeaux, an elderly former movie star from the golden age of Hollywood, and her own mother, the late Lana Turner, who was one of the biggest stars of that era, as well as being very beautiful. Ms. Crane seems to have drawn on a lot of details from her personal life, and I enjoyed it. I plan on buying the other two books in the series.
April 7, 2020
What a fun, little read. Jessica Martin, the close friend and business partner of Nikki Harper - Realtor and daughter of Hollywood legend, Victoria Bordeaux - has been hauled into question for the murder of a 70s TV star (still beloved, due to reruns). Funny thing: he was dead some months ago - victim of a plane crash. This time, his body proves it - in Jessica's bed. Jessica is innocent and Nikki takes on the part-time P. I. task to prove it. Working in real estate, I could easily identify with the terms and quirks of the business described. I loved the descriptions of the houses along the way too. As a classic film fan, I also found following along with Victoria the most delightful part of the story.
Cheryl Crane, the author, is also a Realtor and daughter of a Hollywood legend - Lana Turner. Each of her titles in her mystery series is a play on a few of Turner's biggest hits. I've already read the third and so far last of the series. It offers an homage to classic Hollywood and a bit to the life of a real estate agent. The stories also feel like loving tribute to Turner - Victoria has similar characteristics (same number of husbands for example), class, and wit.
I needed a cozy read after a heady grad class, so this fit the bill. There were some inconsistencies and I had to flip back a few times for clarification, which slowed me down at times. I enjoyed the story - like reading an episode of Columbo - and I look forward to reading the sequel.
Cheryl Crane, the author, is also a Realtor and daughter of a Hollywood legend - Lana Turner. Each of her titles in her mystery series is a play on a few of Turner's biggest hits. I've already read the third and so far last of the series. It offers an homage to classic Hollywood and a bit to the life of a real estate agent. The stories also feel like loving tribute to Turner - Victoria has similar characteristics (same number of husbands for example), class, and wit.
I needed a cozy read after a heady grad class, so this fit the bill. There were some inconsistencies and I had to flip back a few times for clarification, which slowed me down at times. I enjoyed the story - like reading an episode of Columbo - and I look forward to reading the sequel.
July 6, 2012
Author: Cheryl Crane
Title: The Bad Always Die Twice
Description: Nikki Harper is a Hollywood real estate agent who is the daughter of Victoria Bourdeaux, a glamorous fifties movie star. Cheryl Crane is a real estate agent who is the daughter of Lana Turner. Make of this what you will. So Nikki is investigating the death of a rascal who supposedly died six months earlier in a plane crash, but ended up stabbed through the eye in her best friend’s bed.
Review source: I think I got this ARC at ALA last year.
Plot: When you take away all the Hollywood glamour, this is a fairly straightforward whodunit. I thought it was interesting; there were plenty of twists, and new information was handed out steadily throughout the book.
Characters: Nikki is level-headed and practical in spite of her Hollywood background. Her mother is likeable as well, though way past eccentric on the kooky scale.
Writing style: Fine. There is a lot of brand name dropping, which means nothing to me and I could do without.
Audience: Mystery readers. Despite its Hollywood setting, it’s not exactly noir, but there are some noir-ish touches.
Wrap-up: Mysteries aren’t my top choice in reading, although I always enjoy a well-crafted whodunit. So the fact that I wouldn’t go out looking for another book by Crane isn’t so much a judgment on her as just a reflection on my own choices in reading. 3.5/5*
Title: The Bad Always Die Twice
Description: Nikki Harper is a Hollywood real estate agent who is the daughter of Victoria Bourdeaux, a glamorous fifties movie star. Cheryl Crane is a real estate agent who is the daughter of Lana Turner. Make of this what you will. So Nikki is investigating the death of a rascal who supposedly died six months earlier in a plane crash, but ended up stabbed through the eye in her best friend’s bed.
Review source: I think I got this ARC at ALA last year.
Plot: When you take away all the Hollywood glamour, this is a fairly straightforward whodunit. I thought it was interesting; there were plenty of twists, and new information was handed out steadily throughout the book.
Characters: Nikki is level-headed and practical in spite of her Hollywood background. Her mother is likeable as well, though way past eccentric on the kooky scale.
Writing style: Fine. There is a lot of brand name dropping, which means nothing to me and I could do without.
Audience: Mystery readers. Despite its Hollywood setting, it’s not exactly noir, but there are some noir-ish touches.
Wrap-up: Mysteries aren’t my top choice in reading, although I always enjoy a well-crafted whodunit. So the fact that I wouldn’t go out looking for another book by Crane isn’t so much a judgment on her as just a reflection on my own choices in reading. 3.5/5*
January 19, 2014
Nice cozy with celebrity appeal
I truly enjoyed this mystery. it was like reading a nice cozy published within the pages of Enquirer Magazine. I loved what felt like a behind the scenes view of the rich and famous in Hollywood.
the author did a great job with her descriptions of the clothes, the sets, and the people without going overboard with the details.
She also did a great job with portraying the mother - daughter relationship and making me care about both of them. And she surprised me with the ending. I had a glimmer once early on in the book as to who the true murderer was then she oh so skilfully pointed me in multiple other directions and I lost it. Then she told me again abd I failed to pick up on it with the subtle hint.
I felt compelled to get online and write this review as soon as I finished reading it because I adored the book.
it's got its share of crime, there's no sugar coating it but I was never over whelmed with gory details and violent scenes.
just a lovely mystery with a nice heroine surrounded by genuine loved ones.
I'll buy the rest of the books in the series and savor each one, like finding a Hershey kiss hidden in the couch when you thought you were completely out of chocolate. This book is like that.
I truly enjoyed this mystery. it was like reading a nice cozy published within the pages of Enquirer Magazine. I loved what felt like a behind the scenes view of the rich and famous in Hollywood.
the author did a great job with her descriptions of the clothes, the sets, and the people without going overboard with the details.
She also did a great job with portraying the mother - daughter relationship and making me care about both of them. And she surprised me with the ending. I had a glimmer once early on in the book as to who the true murderer was then she oh so skilfully pointed me in multiple other directions and I lost it. Then she told me again abd I failed to pick up on it with the subtle hint.
I felt compelled to get online and write this review as soon as I finished reading it because I adored the book.
it's got its share of crime, there's no sugar coating it but I was never over whelmed with gory details and violent scenes.
just a lovely mystery with a nice heroine surrounded by genuine loved ones.
I'll buy the rest of the books in the series and savor each one, like finding a Hershey kiss hidden in the couch when you thought you were completely out of chocolate. This book is like that.
September 9, 2016
Nicki Harper, daughter of screen goddess Victoria Bordeaux, gets caught up in a mystery when her best friend and business partner, Jessica, is accused of murder. Rex March died a few months ago in a plane crash, but then he turns up in Jessica’s bed dead as a doornail. Now Nicki is out to prove Jessica’s innocence and keep her real estate business going at the same time. Nicki is interviewing the people close to Rex and once the pieces start to come together, is she putting herself in danger of ending up like Rex?
The Bad Always Die Twice is a lively and entertaining mystery. Ms. Crane has come up with some interesting and endearing characters, especially that of Victoria Bordeaux, Nicki’s mother. The story was well paced and intriguing with a look at an industry that lives on surface appearances where the truth lies beneath the glitter. I am looking forward to reading much more from Ms. Crane!
Nicki Harper Mystery Series: The Bad Always Die Twice (1)
The Bad Always Die Twice is a lively and entertaining mystery. Ms. Crane has come up with some interesting and endearing characters, especially that of Victoria Bordeaux, Nicki’s mother. The story was well paced and intriguing with a look at an industry that lives on surface appearances where the truth lies beneath the glitter. I am looking forward to reading much more from Ms. Crane!
Nicki Harper Mystery Series: The Bad Always Die Twice (1)
Read
September 4, 2011Crane writes a wonderful crime drama and really gets you into the time period along with it. I’m a fan of the early 1950s. The story surrounds that of 1950s TV star Rex March. He is found dead in the bed of realtor Jessica Martin. Jessica is well known for her romps with the hunky men, but she is even more stunned to find him in her bed. He’s been missing for six months! The police name her the prime suspect.
Jessica’s partner Nikki Harper, helps to investigate. Nikki is the daughter of movie legend Victoria Bordeaux. Nikki knows how to interview people as she is sure to drop her mothers famous name to get the information she needs.
Although this is Nikki’ tale as she searches for the killer, I really enjoyed her character because she is fun, gusty, and courageous. A must read for those who love crime fiction.
Jessica’s partner Nikki Harper, helps to investigate. Nikki is the daughter of movie legend Victoria Bordeaux. Nikki knows how to interview people as she is sure to drop her mothers famous name to get the information she needs.
Although this is Nikki’ tale as she searches for the killer, I really enjoyed her character because she is fun, gusty, and courageous. A must read for those who love crime fiction.
October 20, 2011
As a person formerly addicted to Hollywood gossip blogs, I really liked the nudge-nudge-wink-wink effect of The Bad Always Die Twice. The scene was set; the players were all in place; the posh addresses referenced therein. Once the narrative began, I was surprised by how much I wanted Nikki to find the real murderer. Add in her mother, Victoria Bordeaux, a name and face whom everyone in Hollywood knows, and Nikki is able to use her minor celebrity status to play amateur sleuth. The twists and turns lead to more uncertainity about who had actually killed Rex March, and once the murderer was revealed, I was surprised I hadn't guessed it.
The Bad Always Die Twice was a great mystery featuring a charmingly fun novice gumshoe in Nikki Harper. I can only hope the subsequent books in this series are as good as this one.
The Bad Always Die Twice was a great mystery featuring a charmingly fun novice gumshoe in Nikki Harper. I can only hope the subsequent books in this series are as good as this one.
December 16, 2013
This is the second Nikki Harper mystery I have read and it is one the earlier ones. It was not as faced paced as the other one but enjoyable all the same. Nikki Harper, daughter of famous movie star, Victoria Bordeaux and a real estate agent finds herself playing P.I. when her work partner and friend, Jessica is accused of murder of a man with whom she had been having an affair. The fact that this man was already declared dead once, having lost his life in a plane crash. When his body shows up again on Jessica's bed, police look to her for answers. Nikki Harper works on discovering who really did it and it was an interesting surprise. I can recommend this book whole heartedly. It is even more interesting in that the author, Cheryl Crane is actually the daughter of Lana Turner. If anyone knows the ins and outs of Hollywood, she certainly would.
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