Murder on the Celtic by Conrad Allen
The last adventure with George Porter Dillman and Genevieve Masefield is much like the others. But then it is one of a series, and mystery series books do tend to be a bit formulaic. It’s not a bad thing, but it is a consequence of being part of a series of mysteries. There are only so many ways to vary the plot, when it must include a puzzle to be solved, either by the book’s character or reader.
This book completes a circle with George and Genevieve. The first book was an eastbound trans-Atlantic sailing and this last one is a westbound sailing across the same ocean. The book does not feel like a finale. There is nothing to indicate that the adventures with George and Genevieve will not continue, and for that reason it is a bit disappointing as the last in the series. There is no satisfying conclusion to the series, through the is a satisfying conclusion to the mystery.
But as the mystery with the likable detectives, it is very good. I enjoyed the mystery, even with the unnecessary addition of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle as a character. Conan Doyle is much more likable as a historic character than J.P. Morgan was in the previous volume, but I did not think real people as characters was completely necessary for the series. The character of the ocean liner was enough for me.
Like with the other books in the series, I missed having deck plans or other illustrations for the book. I really think even fictional plans would have been helpful for readers.
Overall, the series was fun, and I have really enjoyed re-discovering George and Genevieve. They are a fun, easy to read series, well suited for quiet afternoons. They are not quite cotton candy books, but they are not heavy, serious reads. Check them out if you need something for waiting rooms, airplanes, cruises, or just a light diversion from serious subjects. You won’t be sorry.
One Bear’s Opinion: Four glasses of champagne with a plate of strawberries
Happy Reading Everyone,
Oliver
No comments:
Post a Comment