4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review
A Touch of Homicide by Peter S Fischer is the twelfth installment in the author’s Hollywood Murder Mystery Series, yet this book succeeds on many levels as a standalone novel. Written in a similar style as the works of Agatha Christie, A Touch of Homicide is a typical “whodunit” mystery. Joe Bernardi is a partner in one of the most successful management and publicity firms in the Hollywood film industry. Shockingly, Joe and his long time hero, Orson Welles, become prime suspects in the twisted murder investigation of a distasteful producer. The crime scene is filled with clues, each pointing to a different suspect. The many twists and turns of the story, along with the abundance of unsavory suspects, will keep readers guessing right up to the end.
Set in 1958, Fischer does a wonderful job capturing the essence of old Hollywood. From bottom feeding producers, to wives that are willing to do anything to progress their husband’s careers, this book is full of the scandal and intrigue one would expect of a Hollywood tale. For movie buffs, this book is a real treat. The mention of famous Hollywood stars like Orson Welles coupled with the characterization of wannabe actresses, producers, screenwriters, mobsters, and brainless cops really create a distinct mood for the story to unfold upon.
The narrative moved along quickly and held my interest throughout. At only about 200 pages, the book can easily be read in one sitting. The author masterfully intertwines the narrator’s personal troubles with the murder mystery. Aside from Bernardi’s curiosity about the murder, he is also tasked with investigating the whereabouts of his missing girlfriend, Bunny. The secondary plot helped to not only humanize the narrator, but also worked to hold the reader’s interest.
Though A Touch of Homicide was a great read, it definitely falls into the “whodunit” and “cozy mystery” categories and for that reason, it may not be for everyone. Those looking for a mystery with lots of substance and thrill will be disappointed by the easy going and relatively fluffy narrative A Touch of Homicide has to offer. The narrative structure as well as the characters and motives are nothing special. What makes the book so distinctive is the playful writing style and likable narrator.
Though this book may not be for everyone, it truly was enjoyable to read and thus, I rate A Touch of Homicide 4 out of 4 stars. I look forward to reading some of the other installments in The Hollywood Murder Series. Fans of cozy mysteries, movie buffs, and those who enjoy reading about 1950’s Hollywood will take great pleasure in reading Fischer’s work.
******
A Touch of Homicide
View: on Bookshelves
Like MarisaRose's review? Post a comment saying so!