Murder in the Choir

Joel B. Reed
White Turtle Books (2005)
ISBN 1933482311
Reviewed by Ellen Hogan for Reader Views (2/06)

“Murder in the Choir” is set in Oak Grove, Arkansas. When a famous black musician is shot at his 80th birthday celebration, Jazz Philips, is called on the case. Throughout the book, Jazz works with local cops, the FBI, Arkansas CID and a government agency. He learns that the musician Smiley Jones is not the sterling character he thought he was. After interviewing old friends of Smiley’s, he becomes aware of what the man was really like.

There are several twists and turns in the book, which makes it more interesting for the reader. While it might not be an edge of your seat kind of book, it is a page turner none the less. The writer describes all the characters in detail making the reader feel like they know everyone involved. These characterizations draw you even further into the book. At the end of the book you are wishing it would keep going.

This is a book for anyone who loves mysteries. Personally I really enjoyed the book and will look for more by this particular author. “Murder in the Choir” is a puzzle that is solved with descriptive phrases and word pictures. It is definitely worth reading.

Make comment on weblog