The Deadly Ackee and Other Stories of Crime and Catastrophe

by Joan Hess

Agatha and Macavity Award-winning AuthorIn the title novel, "The Deadly Ackee," retired florist Theo Bloom lucks into what appears to be a perfect situation -- escorting his teenage niece and her five friends to lush Jamaica, where he can study the tropical flora to his heart's delight. But there are serpents in paradise; his squabbling charges are enough to drive even mild-mannered Theo to drink, and when an old friend from the CIA turns up, it's more than coincidence. But when a body is found floating in the resort pool, Theo's vacation turns murderous, and only he can solve the mystery before another victim is found. Also included is a selection of short stories, including one from "The Maggody Files."

Joan Hess lives in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Genres: Mystery

Hardcover

Published December 15, 2003

About the author

Joan Hess was the author of both the Claire Malloy and the Maggody mystery series. Hess was a winner of the American Mystery Award, a member of Sisters in Crime, and a former president of the American Crime Writers League. She lived in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Joan Hess also wrote a mystery series under the pseudonym of Joan Hadley.

Series contributed to:
. Crosswinds
. The Year's 25 Finest Crime and Mystery Stories
. Malice Domestic
. Deadly Allies
. Sisters in Crime

Reviews

[Gary Sundell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Close to 3.5 stars. An amusing cozy with a male MC written in the 1980s.

[John F Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good plot and engaging characters

It was a witty, well rounded outing that did not drop into slapstick as many new authors do. Theo is a gentleman whose company I hope to spend many more hours enjoying.

[Alexis Arroyo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh

The book was ok. It was an easy read with an ok storyline. I personally didn’t care too much for it, but that could be because I’m not into this kind of book. Just not realistic enough for me.

[Ingrid · Rating 3 out of 5]

While it is true that she can write snarky teenage conversations like a pro, I found the characters really annoying. The mystery was pretty good but I just found the whole premise strange. No college-aged group of friends are going to drag along an old man to act as their chaperone. Maybe back in the late 80's this was more common but it didn't ring true. Joan Hess is known for her comic writing and I didn't find this book very amusing. I'm undecided if I shall read the other title in this series.

[Dogsandbooks · Rating 2 out of 5]

Much as I love Joan Hess, hardly worth the bother. Feels like she phoned it in. Dpl e book via total boox