Early 1900's New Orleans comes to life, with the Black Hand in the near past, but prejudices still lingering and police biases coloring investigations. Rich in atmosphere, we feel like we are there, fearing a brutal killer that seemingly disappears into the night. Great historical context and a feel for the city.

This was everything that I was looking for and enjoyed about historical fiction books with the true crime element. The characters were everything that I was looking for and enjoyed the overall feel that I was hoping for. Vincent B. "Chip" LoCoco wrote this well and left me wanting more from the author.

The Devil's Jazz: The Haunted Chronicles of the Axman of New Orleans is a beautifully written piece of historical fiction. LoCoco has a poetic way with prose, and is able to really give you a feel for the world of New Orleans.

The author blends the story of a retired detective with that of the gruesome murders that took place. The story itself though is so much more - it is a story of love and life and resilience, in addition to a story of murder and the underworld (both literally and figuratively). The rich cast of characters he brings to life adds to the story, making you feel as though you know them.

This is a story that anyone who enjoys historical fiction, the occult, or true crime would enjoy. Although there are some gory scenes, it is so much more than gore.

I went into this expecting a normal non-fiction book about the murders. I started out upset at getting a novel, but as I kept going I was surprised at how good this was.

The Devil's Jazz: The Haunted Chronicles of the Axman of New Orleans, A Novel by Vincent B. "Chip" LoCoco was received directly from the publisher and I chose to review it. I had never read the author but I have been to New Orleans many times, for what that is worth. The fiction book based on true events. The book is, at times, a crime procedural book that is interesting, mostly never boring and has a nice history of New Orleans, jazz, some voodoo and of course New Orleans spirits, of both the ghostly and alcohol kind. If you, or someone you buy gifts for enjoys New Orleans or ghosts, serial killers, this book could be a nice holiday gift.

4 Stars

I am grateful to have received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This was a very smooth, engaging, fast, and intriguing mystery. The historical details are a phenomenal and added bonus to the mystery of the Axman murders. Readers not only get to experience the chilling mystery of the murders, and fears and conspiracies of the residents, but also get to enjoy additional details about the history of New Orleans and the Voodoo and Jazz culture during the time period. I even watched a documentary about this time period while reading the book because these additional details were so intriguing. I also very quickly connected with the main character and secondary characters, and maintained that connection, empathizing with and rooting for him and them throughout the book, which also helps pull you into the story. This is a great, entertaining, and quick read that is full of information and mystery to keep you hooked!