As this was the 9th in a series, I found it a bit daunting at first to dive into, and ultimately I had missed the introductions and interactions the minor characters had with Micky Knight, the main character, who has taken on 2 cases this time, one for money and one for pity. For this reason, I struggled with the book and only made it half way through before I gave up, sorry.

Micky Knight has taken on two cases, one to pay the bills and the other because she feels she has to. The first has a rich out of towner wanting her to solve a murder from a hundred years ago, research at the most. The other was brought to her by a grieving mother, looking for why her daughter killed herself. It doesn’t look like either case is going to have a happy ending, if she can find an ending at all. But secrets seldom keep and, as Mickey will find out, the lives of teens rarely simple.

The Girl on the Edge of Summer by J. M. Redmann is something of a cozy mystery, high on personal character drama and low on plot. The protagonist, Micky Knight, is mired in her feelings over her girlfriend leaving her and her friends all acting strange. The book doesn’t seem interested in the plot for the most part. None of this adds up to a particularly compelling read. I would also feel remiss in not mentioning that this is the ninth book in the series, and I do think that a lot of my issues with the book tie into that in one way or another.

A big part of jumping in on a later book in a series is that I’ve missed everything that came before this book. The entirety of Micky’s character development, the entirety of the relationship she’s mourning the loss of, I have none of that. So my first impression is of a character who is such a downer that it became a slog to get through the book at times. She just felt so sorry for herself and the book got mired in that. Plus, there was a lot of stuff that felt like early series character development stuff, stuff that’s important to shaping who Micky Knight is meant to be. But given the general downer vibe of the book and how often it was repeated, it just felt like Micky looking for more things to be sad about. She’s down on herself, on the women she meets online, on her friends, and even on the people who hired her. It gets tiring.

Was there anything in this book that I enjoyed? The parts where Micky actually does her job, particularly the parts with her doing research for the rich guy’s case, were pretty solid. The Micky Knight working in the library trying to find out what happened to this guy’s ancestor was almost a different character, one I’d be interested in reading more. She was invested in what she was doing and talking to people without the self pity from the rest of the book. I would have really liked to see more of this part. It might count as a mild spoiler but I also liked that, towards the end at least, Micky seemed to realize that she was being a downer and started trying to fix that. It’s not enough to save the book for me but I appreciate that it’s there.

So, wrap up time. I feel like I would have enjoyed this book a little bit more if I’d read the first eight books. Having not, the book is a slog with an unlikeable main character and a habit of not caring about its own story. This is one of the few books I’ve seriously considered just not finishing. Which is a shame, because when J. M. Redmann writes well she writes really well, unfortunately there wasn’t a lot of that in this one. The Girl on the Edge of Summer gets a one out of five.

When I requested this book I didn't realise that this was part of a series. I guess I should have read the previous eight but to be honest I really didn't need too. Yes there were a few mentions in passing of names which I assume the previous books would have told who, what, where and when. Again, they didn't play a major part so didn't stop my enjoyment of the story. I gave it 3.5 stars more because the main character Micky kind of annoyed me. I got the feeling that she didn't really like her job as a private investigator.

Maybe this is the kind of book you need to read twice to really enjoy it. I really don't know but some reviews I have read clearly think its excellent so its either the series or the main character. I will admit this is my first book by Redmann and although I did like her writing style and her story telling was good. It was the character. I really feel she should change professions.

Anyway the book revolves around two cases Micky takes on. First being a suicide of a young girl and second a murder that happened at the turn of the century. Both cases caught my interested and it seemed at one point that Micky was involved with a murder of a suspect. I enjoyed both because they were so different. I also liked the way Redmann integrated both cases into the story and had it run so smoothly. Redmann is obviously an author I need to read more off.

During the writing of this review I have decided to up my rating to 4 stars. Kind of changed my mind. While reviewing I realised I did in fact like the book. Thinking about it and reviewing what I read has helped me understand Micky a little more and I really hope Redmann gives her another book where she will finally find some happiness.

Yes I would recommend this book. Enjoy!


*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1996692549


https://www.amazon.co.uk/review/R1GMFMNJ1WA4N7/ref=pe_1572281_66412651_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

I love me some Micky Knight. This is the 9th book in the Micky Knight series, wow. And I'm happy to report, I still love this series. How many times can you read 9 books by the same author/series and never rate them below 4 Stars? I can only think of one other possibility and that would be some of Radclyffe's earlier series, thought I can't remember if any of them made it to 9 books long. Anyway, this book had the same quality of writing that I am used to by Redmann. I think what has given this series such longevity, is that Micky's life is constantly changing. Sometimes good, sometimes bad, but always interesting enough to hook me right in. I have no idea how many more Micky books Redmann will write, but it's got to be at least one more right? Got to make it at least an even 10. I don't want to say goodbye to Micky, and her story is not over yet.

Micky is still having a tough time, and still drinking more than she should. Her days are lonely and she is throwing herself into work to keep time moving. Micky is even entering the world of internet dating to try to find someone to spend that time with. When two cases land on her lap at the same time, the one that seems easier, might be much more dangerous than Micky thought. And when a body turns up, even her friend Detective Joanne, thinks Micky might be guilty of murder. Can Micky get out of this without going to jail, or worse losing her life?

As always, I was hooked into this book after the first few pages. I love the way Redmann writes, and I feel comfortable with the characters. I honestly can't recommend this series enough for people who enjoy crime mysteries. I would not recommend reading this book without reading the other books, in order first. I know that seems daunting, but I would suggest giving the first 3 books a read. It would give you a good idea who Micky really is, and if you would like the rest of the series. Redmann, if you read reviews, please write another Micky book. I really want Micky to get her happily ever after, not just a happily for now.

An ARC was given to me by BSB, for a honest review.

I enjoyed reading this installment of the Micky Knight series, however, it was gloomy throughout the book. Even though it is the 9th book in its series, it can be read as a stand alone, but you'll miss the introductions and interactions the minor characters had with Micky.

There wasn't much romance in this book for Mickey, so if that's what all you're looking for, you'll be disappointed.

Although I was a little disappointed with the romantic side of things, I found that I was pulled into both mysteries.

I did not read the previous books in that series and I’m not sure if it would have made a difference for me.
I thought the plot sounded interesting but the way the book was written was just not for me. I couldn’t get into the story and it was more a chore for me to read it.

I am afraid that I didn't like this book at all.I really didn't like the main character I thought she was written to be unlikable she was so bad.I didn't think she would be capable of solving any cases I would be surprised if she could find her car keys and leave the house.I haven't read any other books with this character and I don't intend to.I can usually find some positive points but I am struggling here maybe I just didn't get her or the feel of the book ,it just wasn't for me.Thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for an honest review.

I should confess up front that I love Micky Knight. She irritates me, she drives me mad with her reckless decisions but I keep returning. The flaws make her real, the writing makes her credible and the plots are always interesting. Here Micky is trying to be a grown up and taking on a couple of cases so she can pay the mortgages. Both seem fairly straightforward and one Micky doesn't want to do but takes because morally she thinks she'll do a better job for the client than some of her competitors. That sums up Micky...

A young girl has committed suicide because of intimate photos shared with a 'boyfriend'. The girl's mother wants to know who the boy is and hopefully stop another child making the same mistakes. The other case brings a wealthy man wanting to know who killed his ancestor many years ago.

One case involves Micky mixing with young people and eating pizza and the other means sitting in a library researching musty old papers. Both would appear to be resolved quite early in the book but like most Micky books, there are twists to come.

I love JM Redmann's writing style - it mixes pace and pathos and by the end you are racing along. Micky makes mistakes and sometimes the wrong decisions but she has strong ethics and good friends and a need to pay her bills and buy her beers and pizzas... I'm not sure I wanted another pizza after finishing this...

Recommended if you've read the previous stories and if you haven't, do yourself a favour and start with Death by the Riverside and work through to this one. They are beautifully written, emotional stories that will keep you enthralled - and occasionally appalled - by a well drawn, empathetic character. Yeah, I admit it, I love Micky.

I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley in return for an honest review.

I've been reading this series for awhile now and it never gets old. I just wonder if the main character is ever going to be happy again?

While the ninth in the series, the author, in the execution of the plot and the continued expansion of the protagonist's strengths, her investigative capacities as well as the commitment that she applies to all endeavors, continues to excel. I enjoyed this latest entrant into the Micky Knight odyssey far more than I did the previous two volumes-this one had a depth and complexity to the mysteries that have been lacking in the others, when considered against the somewhat grating quality of her romantic interests. I was deeply satisfied with the outcomes on all fronts and look forward to the future publications of Ms. Redmann.

Loved this book. Maybe the best in the series. One case dealing with teen suicide and one from the past on finding who murdered the rich man in the seedy side of town. Just discovered she has also written under R Jean Reid. Can't wait to check it out.
Goodreads

Full disclosure, I probably wouldn't have bought this after I was disappointed with the last one. But then again, I have a hard time letting go, so maybe I would have.

I mostly enjoyed this. Micky was her usual flawed self without the stupidity of the last book (well, mostly. It was more reckless than stupid, and Micky has always been reckless). The main case was engaging, the second one digging up things from the past a little less so. It's just not very compelling to read about someone researching things in the library and online and the articles, etc. that were 'included' as part of the novel just were too long and too many. I liked how she overall dealt with case 2, it was just too much.

The book lacked interaction with her group of friends, but we've been there before and she has once more managed to make a mess of things, so while that makes sense, I wish she were in a better place for herself. I think in the long line of flawed, complicated characters I have felt drawn to in books and on TV over the years, Micky was the first.

So I don't know what to tell you. If you're good with where you left Micky I'll not try to convince you to read this. If you do read it I don't think you'll regret it as the main case is solid from a crime novel perspective and Micky seems to be back in character. I didn't love it as I did earlier books in this series, but it wasn't exactly a chore to read it.

This is my first book from this author. I know I know... what took me so long? Apparently, this is book 9 in a series about Micky Knight who is a private detective in New Orleans. Though I believe this was a good read and could be a stand alone, I am eager to start from book one then reread book 9 again. The characters, the story and the twists and turns made this an intriguing mystery. I cannot wait to dive into the others.

4.5 stars

Micky Knight is flying solo this time, so is needing to take on as many cases as will pay the bills. The first is a wealthy man wants her to find out who murdered his great grandfather in 1906. There are many rumours flying around, but Micky isn’t sure he’ll want the truth if she finds it.

Micky is also asked to find the details of a sexual predator who preyed on a 17 year old, who committed suicide as a result. The mum wants answers, and says she only wants the name and address of the predator for legal reasons. Micky has her doubts, and is pulled into the pool of suspects when the man is murdered. How will she get out of this mess?

This is the 9th book in the series by Redmann. She has developed a great main character, Micky Knight, who is in turns thoughtful and sensitive, and pragmatic and hardnosed. Micky is a great character for a more modern, and very queer take on the hardboiled detective.

In this installment, Micky is traveling solo, and occasionally trying internet dating. She’s also hitting the booze, and using her work to keep her busy. This book doesn’t have the same compelling personal life as others in the series, but it is perhaps refreshing for the lack of drama in that area.

What shines in this book is the combination of current thriller with many possible suspects, and appropriate levels of jeopardy for the main character, and some classic backstabbing by various interested parties. This current crime works really well to add tension to the story, while Redmann allows Micky to explore some of the history of New Orleans.

Redmann has found a lovely way to investigate a crime in 1906, and the lives of some of the local characters at the time. The mix of the two cases is really well done. There is serious tension and jeopardy in the current case, which is lightened by the exploration of the historical crime. This combination clearly shows the skills of an experienced author in the juggling of the two in a seamless navigation of the world of Micky Knight.

I really enjoyed this book. It was well crafted, and cleverly balanced the elements of two cases and the personal life of the main character. I recommend this to newcomers to the series as well as those who have read the others by Redmann.

Advanced reading copy provided by NetGalley for an honest review.

This book is the 9th book in the series. I have read them all. I struggle between the author sharing her arch of the character and as a reader what aspects I would like to see come to fruition. This book is not really a stand alone, because there are characters mentioned, but never identified that if you didn't have history on, you'd be lost.

I truly enjoy the author's talent to write this character!!! I would love to see her work it out with Cordelia, but after the painful break up, (no spoilers here) I am not sure how a lover could ever trust a partner again.

This book gives hope at the end that Mickey might finally being moving forward in her life. Which I hope is the case for the next book. Mickey is truly a character that is so well written, but her storyline seems to be running a little dry. It's almost like Mickey just refused to evolve as a character. When she is in a romance, there was Mickey's ability to rise above her demons and evolve as a person. Without the romance or even her friends, Mickey seems predictable, when they are in the book, there are so many wonderful layers of emotions.

The book is a sad story.. However it's beautifully written. The last line or two in the book gives me hope for a shift in the character's direction. So in the end I choose to focus on the hope.

I based my rating on how well the book is written.

*I received this book from NetGalley, and Bold Strokes Books in return for a fair review.*

<b>First: Nature of Book, i.e., can it be read as a stand-alone?</b>
As a series book, ninth book at that, a question of 'can I read this book without having read the prior books?' is something like the standard first question. There are series wherein characters and story grow from book to book, and therefore reading order is quite important; and others where a certain growth occurs, but the main difference, book to book, is the mystery contained in the book - and therefore reading order isn't strictly important.

So, what's up with this book, eh?

In theory you could read this book as a stand-alone. There are blanks that someone who read the series would be able to fill quickly, while those who enter this book ‘fresh’ would have a harder time filling. Though clues to help fill those blanks are there. Blanks include such things like: who is this Alex person who called? Why does Micky seem to know this Joanne cop person? Why does she keep trying to call this ‘Danny’ person? Just who is this ‘Cordelia’ woman that gets mentioned in passing? To those fresh to the series, there are clues, as mentioned.

For the most part, someone could, as I said, in theory read this book as a stand-alone. I believe it is better advised to read this book 9th after the previous 8 books. Micky and friends do change over time. They are not locked into a holding pattern – they are not the same age from book 1 to book 9, and their relationships are not the same either (to a certain extent).

So – can this be read by itself? Yes. Is it recommended? No. But readers’ preferences differ.

<b>Second: Publish Date</b>
The book will be available to be purchased directly from the publishers website starting April 1 2017, and 'everywhere' April 18 2017.

<b>Mystery</b>
The story has three main mysteries, though the third could probably better be mentioned in the section below titled ‘Romance’.

<i>First Mystery</i>: Shortly after Mardi Gras is over, two people, separately, meet up with Micky Knight in her office. One is woman who desires to hire Micky to look for the guy who drove her daughter to suicide. For various reasons, Micky is reluctant to take the case but believes she might be best able to handle it rather than some other scum ball detective who might not care much and would just milk the mother for money.

<i>Second Mystery</i>: And shortly after that a man dressed expensively turns up. He has another death he wants investigated, by Micky. That of his great-grandfather – who was murdered in . . . I think it was 1906.

<i>Third Mystery</i>: Micky is confused by the antics of her friends and relatives. All appear busy at the same time on the same weekend, but refuse to elaborate on what’s going on.

<b>Romance</b>

Torbin, Micky’s drag-queen cousin, suggests that Micky try internet dating. Micky does. During the course of the book she goes on, if I recall correctly, three dates. Micky is not impressed with the internet dating world (or, at least, not after the first date.

<b>Overall</b>

I mentioned in the first status update I did for the book on GoodReads that this book opened sad. Well, it did. And continued that way. It is kind of expected with the book opens with Micky investigating a suicide, and a murder (albeit a long ago murder). Mix in her relationship situation – which I cannot elaborate on as this is the ninth book in a series and there’s a ton of spoiler that could be given away there – and this is a sad book.

Being a teenager in the age of instant communication, easy internet access, where mistakes are hard to hide – is very difficult. A completely different world from the one Micky grew up in (and her own situation wasn’t exactly great), and from my own. And one wherein ‘simple’ mistakes can be costly.

On several levels Micky gets pulled into both mysteries (well the non-romance ones I mean by ‘both’). Trying to help a distraught mother/brother and the high school students who knew the dead girl. The ‘scum ball’ was surprisingly easy to track down. But every time Micky thought she was done with that specific case, she kept getting pulled in. And then <spoiler>she became a murder suspect</spoiler>.

The first mystery showed how tough it is to be a woman, a young one, in today’s world. The second mystery showed how tough it was to be a woman, regardless of age, in the world of the early 1900s. Somewhere along the line, Micky ended up finding a diary of a police officer from that time period – and the information contained within it was quite interesting and intriguing.

While a sad book in many ways, it was also an enjoyable book. (Though there was that one occasion when Micky did that one stupid thing late at night .. . . then there was that other time Micky did that stupid thing – albeit if she hadn’t done it . . . right, sorry, spoilers and stuff).

Rating: 4.45

March 17 2017

This is book 9 in the Micky Knight's series by this author. It follows the adventures of a private detective based in New Orleans who has a tendency of getting into trouble while trying to solve difficult cases. If you want to make the most of the series I suggest that you read them all in chronological order as you might miss a lot of background about different secondary characters and Micky's romantic life. However, it's understandable if you don't want to commit to so much reading so you can read this one as a stand alone story. I've read them all in the span of a few years and I've found some better than others. This one is ok but not my favourite.

Normally the strength of this series is the combination of Micky's investigations and her romantic life. We don't see any of the latter in this one as the character is dealing with a painful breakup. It makes sense in the overall series plot design but the readers are going to miss the romantic aspect on this book. Her family and friends are also almost absent which is a pity as some of them are really likeable and bring wittiness and fun to the plot. The Micky we get to see in this book is a more subdued version of herself which is understandable considering what she is experiencing but it's a loss anyway. The two mysteries themselves are interesting and have twists and turns to keep the reader entertained and there are the usual fast paced dangerous scenes to account for.

Overall, an entertaining read charged with action but Micky isn't at her best. 4 stars.

ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

4 stars

Michele “Micky” Knight is a Private Investigator who takes on two new cases. The mother of a teenage girl who committed suicide wants Micky to find the person who took a picture of her daughter with her top off and posted it in the internet.

The second case is one of murder, albeit a very old one. The client, Douglas Townson’s, great-grandfather was murdered and he wants Micky to put to rest the outrageous stories the family tells and find out what really happened. (Perhaps it was more a matter of arrogance on Mr. Townson’s part.)

As she goes about her investigations into her clients’ cases, she uncovers interesting details and nefarious doings. Then murders are committed, and things get dangerous.

This is a well written and plotted book. I truly enjoyed it. It was kind of refreshing going back and forth between cases – a different approach if you will. This is my first J.M. Redmann book, but I don’t believe it will be my last.

I want to thank Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books, Inc/Bold Strokes Books for forwarding to me a copy of this book to read.