Cold Smoked

Rating:
Summary: There Must Be Easier Ways for a Heroine to Earn a Living
Review: I haven't read any of the previous books, so I don't know how this one compares to them. The author's skill with descriptions was enough to make me share the heroine's emotions (after listening to all those salmon pushers -- and thank goodness we have only a hint of their burblings -- I'd be wanting to sink my teeth into some beef, too). Beck does as good job with the minor characters as with the main. I admire the way the obnoxious or boring characters were brought to sufficient life that I wanted to sneak away from them. The comments about Americans who try to force their own views on the rest of the world were appreciated.

Too bad the woman whose boyfriend dumped her before she got around to dumping him allowed herself to feel depressed. There's no need for that. I've had one of those calls. When the guy asked me if I minded, I referred to his new girlfriend as my savior. (No, that didn't start a feud. They've been married for years and we're all friends.)

Sampling an author's work for the first time is always a risk. It's good to be able to say that I didn't waste my money. Ann E. Nichols

Rating:
Summary: Good writing, good plot, unbelievable heroine
Review: I just couldn't warm up to Jane da Silva. I missed the descriptions of her home and habits that are sometimes TOO detailed in other mysteries of this type. I have no idea what her house is like, what kinds of clothes she wears, etc. Also, I just did not believe what she was able to accomplish and how much wool she pulled over how many eyes. Also, I prefer when these types of books are in first person. I could then really be in Jane's head and hear her thoughts. Also, a bit too much scenery description. So overall, despite the entertaining and clever plot and the strong, unusual setting, I don't think I'll be reading another da Silva mystery.