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Damien Dickens Mysteries #2
The White Russian Caper: A Damien Dickens Mystery
A mortally wounded Miss America entrusts a mysterious Russian coin to Damien Dickens, P.I. before she dies. After Damien disappears while researching the significance of the coin, Millie tracks her husband's abductor to Florida. When his captor falls to his death from the balcony of a 7th floor apartment, Damien escapes; then, he and Millie join forces to unravel the web of intrigue surrounding the Russian coin and its connection to the murder of Miss America.
THE WHITE RUSSIAN CAPER is the second volume in the Damien Dickens Mysteries series
THE WHITE RUSSIAN CAPER is the second volume in the Damien Dickens Mysteries series
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2015
7 people are currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Phyllis Entis
18 books68 followers
Phyllis Entis is the author of the Damien Dickens Mysteries series, which includes The Green Pearl Caper, The White Russian Caper, The Chocolate Labradoodle Caper, The Gold Dragon Caper and The Blue Moon Caper. Her debut novel, The Green Pearl Caper, was a Library Journal SELF-e Selection. Phyllis is a free-lance writer and retired food safety microbiologist with degrees from McGill University and the University of Toronto. In 2007, ASM Press published her non-fiction book, Food Safety: Old Habits, New Perspectives.
Phyllis lives in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada with her husband and their Australian Cobberdog, Shalom. When she’s not writing, Phyllis usually can be found browsing in the local library, or enjoying her garden.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 12, 2017
You can already tell I’m super-excited about a book when—in my book review—I express my love of the story from my own point of view instead of being somewhat dignified and objective. Here we go, people … You’ve been warned!
Mystery, intrigue, romance, murder, and plenty of action generously pepper this seemingly orthodox, old-style, classic detective novel from Author Phyllis Entis, “The White Russian Caper: A Damien Dickens Mystery (Damien Dickens Mysteries Book 2)”. But Entis’ novel, as familiar to the 1940’s detective mystery genre as it may seem, is—quite surprisingly—anything but your standard find-a-clue-and-solve-the-case fare. Sure, the author sets up her private eye’s life in a utile, budget-friendly, 2-room (one for him and one for his secretary/receptionist) in the low-rent part of town. Sure, the novel takes place in the early 1970’s, when most adult Americans were being pulled kicking and screaming into the modern age, and the lifestyle of a 1940’s private-dick was idolized by most men reaching their mid-life crises. Sure, the plot line feels a bit hokey at first with Damien Dickens hired to solve the murder of Miss America—of all people. But not so long after we’re led down the standard PI bloodhound path, with lots of good old-fashioned legwork, interviews, and keen observations … After we are introduced to all the key players and the usual suspects (We think!) … Entis totally flips the story on its head, changing out our dearly beloved male detective for … (Here it comes!) … Milly—the aforementioned secretary/receptionist who, by the way, just happens to be Dicken’s newlywed wife! Aw!
At a time when “Girl-Power” was virtually non-existent and just coming to the forefront, Milly’s abilities to solve clue after clue in Damien’s untimely abduction and possible murder shine as bright as the sort of female heroics displayed in the latest Wonder Woman movie starring Gal Gadot. Milly is stunning in her logic, savvy in her dealings with clients and suspects, and she takes the lead on the investigation into her husband’s kidnapping like a tiger kitten to its mother’s milk. Milly is a force to be reckoned with, and every male who thinks he can placate her with a few lines of flattery or push her aside in his investigation has got another thing coming from this 1970’s heroine. She’s the type of woman I would have looked up to, having grown up in the 70’s—the era of sexual revolution. She effectively blazes a trail for females to break through the glass ceiling and find their path to glory while wearing her femininity as a badge of honor. She is Wonder Woman and she is magnificent!
This novel has it all; rich forays into the history of Tzarist Russia—the fall of the Tsar and the expulsion of the Jews from Russia; incidental moments of nostalgia as Entis takes you down memory lane to relive life in 1970’s Atlantic City—with Miss America pageants, malt shops, pizza-by-the-slice vendors, root beer floats, and the dawn of Toyota as the nations’s quickly-rising most popular car; and predictions of the burgeoning Florida real-estate boom, the appearance of drug-runners, the snow-bird lifestyle, the plight of the elderly, and the rise of Native American casino culture. If you’re looking for your next favorite tale, be it for a summer vacation or a winter ski-weekend, consider this must-read. I only wish that I could give The White Russian Caper 10 stars for making me feel like I could do anything … just like Milly! Now, where’s Entis’ next chapter? I’m ready for more!
Mystery, intrigue, romance, murder, and plenty of action generously pepper this seemingly orthodox, old-style, classic detective novel from Author Phyllis Entis, “The White Russian Caper: A Damien Dickens Mystery (Damien Dickens Mysteries Book 2)”. But Entis’ novel, as familiar to the 1940’s detective mystery genre as it may seem, is—quite surprisingly—anything but your standard find-a-clue-and-solve-the-case fare. Sure, the author sets up her private eye’s life in a utile, budget-friendly, 2-room (one for him and one for his secretary/receptionist) in the low-rent part of town. Sure, the novel takes place in the early 1970’s, when most adult Americans were being pulled kicking and screaming into the modern age, and the lifestyle of a 1940’s private-dick was idolized by most men reaching their mid-life crises. Sure, the plot line feels a bit hokey at first with Damien Dickens hired to solve the murder of Miss America—of all people. But not so long after we’re led down the standard PI bloodhound path, with lots of good old-fashioned legwork, interviews, and keen observations … After we are introduced to all the key players and the usual suspects (We think!) … Entis totally flips the story on its head, changing out our dearly beloved male detective for … (Here it comes!) … Milly—the aforementioned secretary/receptionist who, by the way, just happens to be Dicken’s newlywed wife! Aw!
At a time when “Girl-Power” was virtually non-existent and just coming to the forefront, Milly’s abilities to solve clue after clue in Damien’s untimely abduction and possible murder shine as bright as the sort of female heroics displayed in the latest Wonder Woman movie starring Gal Gadot. Milly is stunning in her logic, savvy in her dealings with clients and suspects, and she takes the lead on the investigation into her husband’s kidnapping like a tiger kitten to its mother’s milk. Milly is a force to be reckoned with, and every male who thinks he can placate her with a few lines of flattery or push her aside in his investigation has got another thing coming from this 1970’s heroine. She’s the type of woman I would have looked up to, having grown up in the 70’s—the era of sexual revolution. She effectively blazes a trail for females to break through the glass ceiling and find their path to glory while wearing her femininity as a badge of honor. She is Wonder Woman and she is magnificent!
This novel has it all; rich forays into the history of Tzarist Russia—the fall of the Tsar and the expulsion of the Jews from Russia; incidental moments of nostalgia as Entis takes you down memory lane to relive life in 1970’s Atlantic City—with Miss America pageants, malt shops, pizza-by-the-slice vendors, root beer floats, and the dawn of Toyota as the nations’s quickly-rising most popular car; and predictions of the burgeoning Florida real-estate boom, the appearance of drug-runners, the snow-bird lifestyle, the plight of the elderly, and the rise of Native American casino culture. If you’re looking for your next favorite tale, be it for a summer vacation or a winter ski-weekend, consider this must-read. I only wish that I could give The White Russian Caper 10 stars for making me feel like I could do anything … just like Milly! Now, where’s Entis’ next chapter? I’m ready for more!
February 22, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed reading "The White Russian Caper" by Phyllis Entis, the second book in the Damien Dickens mystery series. The author kept me turning the pages as Damien and his wife, Millie, placed their own lives in serious jeopardy, in their attempt to solve the murder of Miss America and to discover the connection, if any, of the mysterious coin she possessed before she died.
I highly recommend this novel!
I highly recommend this novel!
March 23, 2016
This is the second in a series of Damien Dickens murder mysteries. The books are stand alone but you might just find yourself hooked on the suspense filled mysteries and want all of them. In this book, readers find Damien and his wife and receptionist Millie looking for the killer of Miss America and in for intrigue when a gold coin in Damien's possession leads to even more mystery. I like this author and the style of writing that makes the reads quick but interesting. If you like murder mysteries, grab some by Phyllis Entis.
February 18, 2019
Great read!
This is the third book I've read by Phyllis Entis, and it was every bit as enjoyable as the first two. I love the way the main characters have developed. Their interactions are totally natural and believable. The twists and turns in this story led me to want to keep reading well past my bedtime, which is a sure sign of a great mystery. I should note that I've read the Damien Dickens novels out of order, and that hasn't been a problem at all. This aS a fun mystery and I'm eager to read the next one!
This is the third book I've read by Phyllis Entis, and it was every bit as enjoyable as the first two. I love the way the main characters have developed. Their interactions are totally natural and believable. The twists and turns in this story led me to want to keep reading well past my bedtime, which is a sure sign of a great mystery. I should note that I've read the Damien Dickens novels out of order, and that hasn't been a problem at all. This aS a fun mystery and I'm eager to read the next one!
May 12, 2017
This is the 2nd book in the series and although I didn't have the first book, I was able to follow the stoty. Damien and Millie have a great adventure in this book. I enjoy a mystery books. This is my favorite genre. The author gives the reader great descriptions and very clear.
November 1, 2015
The sleuth-solving duo of Damien Dickens and his (now) wife Millie are back in action in this follow-up to
The Green Pearl Caper. The White Russian Caper fast forwards to early 1980; the reigning Miss America has been brutally beaten and entrusts a valuable coin to Damien before she dies. The mystery evolves from there after Damien is kidnapped and Millie must step up to find her husband.
The aspect that I loved most about this book was the growth of Millie. She gets to strut her stuff and we learn just how resourceful and witty she truly is. A portion of the story is told from her POV.
As with Book 1, this mystery is well-crafted with the words flowing smoothly; Entis's descriptions allow the reader to step into the scene. A winning series for any mystery lover.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Green Pearl Caper. The White Russian Caper fast forwards to early 1980; the reigning Miss America has been brutally beaten and entrusts a valuable coin to Damien before she dies. The mystery evolves from there after Damien is kidnapped and Millie must step up to find her husband.
The aspect that I loved most about this book was the growth of Millie. She gets to strut her stuff and we learn just how resourceful and witty she truly is. A portion of the story is told from her POV.
As with Book 1, this mystery is well-crafted with the words flowing smoothly; Entis's descriptions allow the reader to step into the scene. A winning series for any mystery lover.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2015
Damien and Millie have a great adventure in this book. I enjoy mystery books and this series is a great one. I enjoy this series and the author gives the reader great descriptions without going overboard. I love to use my imagination with books as well. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
May 3, 2020
Note: While this is Book 2 in the series, it works just fine as a stand alone novel.
Set in the late 1970s or early 1980s, PI Damien Dickens has to do stuff the hard way. With no internet and no cell phones, sleuthing is a workout! This time around there’s a dead Miss America pageant star and a missing Russian coin. Damien and Millie (his secretary from book 1) got married and both are looking forward to a nice honeymoon – just as soon as there is time for one.
For the most part, it’s a nice cozy read. The plot is straight forward and there are no big surprises. While set in the 1980s, some of the slang and gender roles make the story feel more like a 1940s or 1950s setting. Since there’s only a handful of ladies and for the most part, they are pretty fluff, I would have preferred a more solid 1980s setting. That said, Millie does get to play amateur sleuth for much of the book as Damien was temporarily taken off the board. So the series shows promise in that direction. Still, Millie has to worry about her reputation just because she has a trusted man (Bruno) over when Damien goes missing. That aspect of the story was over played and felt out of place for the year the story is set in.
I liked the Russian coin mystery as unique and rare coins are interesting. It added a nice little aspect to the mystery. The tale also weaves in interesting characters from various cultures. I did guess right away which character was the true villain though. So the plot was predictable, but it had entertaining window dressing.
Overall, it was fun, quaint. I never really worried about our heroes and I knew the bad guys would be punished. Even if it’s a little hokey, I do enjoy the literary references in the characters such as Damien Dickens, Sargent Sherlock, and Detective Holmes. Hopefully some famous ladies from literature will get a nod in future books in this series. This audiobook contains a bonus short story, Traveler, that tells the tale of a doggy companion. 3.5/5 stars.
The Narration: Tom Lennon makes a great PI Damien Dickens. He carries off the 1950s/1980s detective quite well. His female character voices need more femininity. The pacing is perfect. While I appreciate all the foreign accents, they were pretty rough. They all need polishing. And sometimes, they faded in and out of their assigned accent. However, all characters had unique voices. There were several times were the narration felt more like dictation than talented voice acting, as if perhaps the narrator was reading the section for the first time. There were no technical issues with the recording. 3/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book & my opinions are 100% my own.
Set in the late 1970s or early 1980s, PI Damien Dickens has to do stuff the hard way. With no internet and no cell phones, sleuthing is a workout! This time around there’s a dead Miss America pageant star and a missing Russian coin. Damien and Millie (his secretary from book 1) got married and both are looking forward to a nice honeymoon – just as soon as there is time for one.
For the most part, it’s a nice cozy read. The plot is straight forward and there are no big surprises. While set in the 1980s, some of the slang and gender roles make the story feel more like a 1940s or 1950s setting. Since there’s only a handful of ladies and for the most part, they are pretty fluff, I would have preferred a more solid 1980s setting. That said, Millie does get to play amateur sleuth for much of the book as Damien was temporarily taken off the board. So the series shows promise in that direction. Still, Millie has to worry about her reputation just because she has a trusted man (Bruno) over when Damien goes missing. That aspect of the story was over played and felt out of place for the year the story is set in.
I liked the Russian coin mystery as unique and rare coins are interesting. It added a nice little aspect to the mystery. The tale also weaves in interesting characters from various cultures. I did guess right away which character was the true villain though. So the plot was predictable, but it had entertaining window dressing.
Overall, it was fun, quaint. I never really worried about our heroes and I knew the bad guys would be punished. Even if it’s a little hokey, I do enjoy the literary references in the characters such as Damien Dickens, Sargent Sherlock, and Detective Holmes. Hopefully some famous ladies from literature will get a nod in future books in this series. This audiobook contains a bonus short story, Traveler, that tells the tale of a doggy companion. 3.5/5 stars.
The Narration: Tom Lennon makes a great PI Damien Dickens. He carries off the 1950s/1980s detective quite well. His female character voices need more femininity. The pacing is perfect. While I appreciate all the foreign accents, they were pretty rough. They all need polishing. And sometimes, they faded in and out of their assigned accent. However, all characters had unique voices. There were several times were the narration felt more like dictation than talented voice acting, as if perhaps the narrator was reading the section for the first time. There were no technical issues with the recording. 3/5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book & my opinions are 100% my own.
April 4, 2020
The second book in the Damien Dickens series is, if possible, even better than the first. Damien and Millie are now happily married. Damien takes on a new case thanks to the affected and snobby Stephane, and disappears. Then Millie steps up, and with Bruno by her side she kicks some butts, works out what's going on and generally sorts out all the men and gets them organised. I love Millie, I'd like her to be my best friend. The story is a mystery and there's that element to work out. What I love is the warmth and dignity of Millie and the love between her and Damien. A warm feeling encompassed me when I was listening and it genuinely lifted me out of my "I've been stuck indoors for weeks fug" and cheered me up no end. But just when you've eaten a delicious meal at Phyllis Entis' table and couldn't possibly squeeze in one more tasty treat, she serves up a surprise, so unexpected, so perfect and fabulous that my heart soared. I swear I could see fairies flying around a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow after listening to the bonus story you are gifted at the end of The White Russian Caper. Ms Entis, you have achieved something that none of my children or my grandchild or any of my much loved friends and family haven't been able to do for weeks, you made me smile and you repaired my sore and bruised heart. Absolute heaven.
April 30, 2018
If you're looking for a book to lose yourself in, then this series will be right up your street. The Damien Dickens Mysteries deliver on every count: the PI duo of Damien & Millie are a savvy couple, with all the necessary contacts to flesh out any queries they may have; the antagonists are cunning, sometimes totally unexpected, and most certainly worthy of suspicion, and the backdrop is enticing and exciting(especially for non US readers who will be immersed in the world created here).
Yet, in this second book, the author takes the story down a different path. Since book one, Damien and Millie are now a married couple. But, as his former secretary, Millie doesn't sit in the office - oh no - this smart lady has obtained her own PI credentials and her skills for deduction come to the fore, when she is left to run the show while Damien is otherwise 'engaged' (no spoilers here!)
Featuring friends from book one like Bruno and Gus, as well as the police detective Sherlock (not Dickens' greatest fan) this brings a great touch of familiarity to the story. Looking forward to the next caper, where I'm sure The Dickens Agency will be a force to be reckoned with.
Yet, in this second book, the author takes the story down a different path. Since book one, Damien and Millie are now a married couple. But, as his former secretary, Millie doesn't sit in the office - oh no - this smart lady has obtained her own PI credentials and her skills for deduction come to the fore, when she is left to run the show while Damien is otherwise 'engaged' (no spoilers here!)
Featuring friends from book one like Bruno and Gus, as well as the police detective Sherlock (not Dickens' greatest fan) this brings a great touch of familiarity to the story. Looking forward to the next caper, where I'm sure The Dickens Agency will be a force to be reckoned with.
September 1, 2024
The sleuth-solving duo of Damien Dickens and his (now) wife Millie are back in action in this follow-up to The Green Pearl Caper. The White Russian Caper (what a great title) fast forwards to early 1980; the reigning Miss America has been brutally beaten and entrusts a valuable coin to Damien before she dies. The mystery evolves from there after Damien is kidnapped and Millie must step up to find her husband.
The shock when Millie finds that Damien has been kidnapped surprised even me but Millie doesn't wait for more bad news she decides to search for him with the aid of another staff member.
We can see that these events cause a maturity in Millie. She gets to strut her stuff and we learn just how resourceful and witty she truly is. A portion of the story is told from her POV.
As with Book 1, this mystery is well-crafted with the words flowing smoothly; Entis's descriptions allow the reader to step into the scene. A winning series for any mystery lover.
I received this Advanced Reading Copy in exchange for an honest review.
1 like
The shock when Millie finds that Damien has been kidnapped surprised even me but Millie doesn't wait for more bad news she decides to search for him with the aid of another staff member.
We can see that these events cause a maturity in Millie. She gets to strut her stuff and we learn just how resourceful and witty she truly is. A portion of the story is told from her POV.
As with Book 1, this mystery is well-crafted with the words flowing smoothly; Entis's descriptions allow the reader to step into the scene. A winning series for any mystery lover.
I received this Advanced Reading Copy in exchange for an honest review.
1 like
June 17, 2017
I received the audiobook because I begged to read more Phyllis Entis! She was kind enough to send it on to me.
This is the second Damien Dickens Mysteries. Millie and Dick are now married. Dick is asked to help out the organizer of the Miss America pageant who can't find Miss America. He find her, beaten in her hotel room. Before she is taken to the hospital she passes him a Russian coin for safekeeping.
At the same time, Dick is asked by Derek Turpin to investigate a series of robberies in Florida before Turpin buys property down there. Before being able to go to Florida, Dick is kidnapped.
What follows is Millie's search for her husband and the discovery of who murdered Miss America.
The production of this second book is much better than the first book; I had noted several hiccups in the production of the second, and these were mostly ironed out by Tom Lennon this time around.
I also enjoyed the bonus material about Traveler the dog at the end of the book.
This is the second Damien Dickens Mysteries. Millie and Dick are now married. Dick is asked to help out the organizer of the Miss America pageant who can't find Miss America. He find her, beaten in her hotel room. Before she is taken to the hospital she passes him a Russian coin for safekeeping.
At the same time, Dick is asked by Derek Turpin to investigate a series of robberies in Florida before Turpin buys property down there. Before being able to go to Florida, Dick is kidnapped.
What follows is Millie's search for her husband and the discovery of who murdered Miss America.
The production of this second book is much better than the first book; I had noted several hiccups in the production of the second, and these were mostly ironed out by Tom Lennon this time around.
I also enjoyed the bonus material about Traveler the dog at the end of the book.
May 7, 2017
I loved this second book in the Damien Dickens series. Miss America has been brutally murdered, but not before giving Damien an antique Russian coin to hold for safekeeping. Before he can make much headway solving the case, Damien is kidnapped, and Millie has to take over. My favorite part of this book was watching Millie in action as she works to find Damien and solve the murder at the same time. The action shifts quickly from Atlantic City to Hollywood, Florida, and the immerses the reader in the world of Miami Vice-Era south Florida. We also meet a New York-based hotel developer with some very familiar characteristics even though the book is a couple of years old. It's another suspenseful, yet fun, story from author Phyllis Entis.
January 8, 2021
Second in the series
I enjoyed this second outing for Damien Dickens and his now wife Millie, The story moves from Atlanta to Florida and Millie shines as Dick goes missing and she and Bruno pool their resources to search for him. With a few unexpected turns and overall good narration it was good to get back to this series and to some familiar characters as well as meet some new ones. I particularly liked the police officers in this one. I will be listening to the next in the series.
For me Tom Lennon is not great with female voices but it doesn't detract from the overall listening experience and the story held my attention.
There is a short story of a dog at the end of the novel which was ok .
For me 3.5 stars overall
I enjoyed this second outing for Damien Dickens and his now wife Millie, The story moves from Atlanta to Florida and Millie shines as Dick goes missing and she and Bruno pool their resources to search for him. With a few unexpected turns and overall good narration it was good to get back to this series and to some familiar characters as well as meet some new ones. I particularly liked the police officers in this one. I will be listening to the next in the series.
For me Tom Lennon is not great with female voices but it doesn't detract from the overall listening experience and the story held my attention.
There is a short story of a dog at the end of the novel which was ok .
For me 3.5 stars overall
February 8, 2020
I liked this book as book 2 in the Damien Dickens series, an also as a standalone book by itself. The storyline was easy enough to follow - I prefer it when a plot is simpler although I love the occasional twist - and I liked that the number of characters did not rise exponentially as the plot progressed. There's a good balance between interpersonal relationships and professional responsibilities, and I liked the way it plays out here.
The quality of the recording has improved since book 1 and the narrator remained consistent through his readings of each character. A worthy effort from all involved!
The quality of the recording has improved since book 1 and the narrator remained consistent through his readings of each character. A worthy effort from all involved!
March 14, 2017
The White Russian Caper, A Damien Dickens Mystery, by Phyllis Entis
Audiobook narrated by Tom Lennon
★★★★ Four stars from reviewer Iris Chacon.
The reviewer received a complimentary download of the audiobook in exchange for an honest, objective review.
Fans of the Damien Dickens mysteries will enjoy the new, more openly affectionate relationship between Damien and Millie. When The White Russian Caper (book two of the series) begins, Damien and Millie are newlyweds, still working together in their private investigations agency. This story contains many surprises, including the abduction of Damien at one point, at which time Millie takes over sleuthing and dealing with dangerous criminals. She has always been a resourceful woman, and she comes into her own in this novel as a full-fledged PI.
The book was fun and contained enough suspense and clever crime-solving to keep me turning pages at a steady pace. The main characters are as winsome, the locales as detailed, the technicalities as well researched as we have come to expect from a Damien Dickens Mystery. Put all that together with a total absence of offensive material, and you have a mystery recommended for all audiences.
I dropped one star for the narrator's mispronunciation of several words, indicating he had not done his homework. I found voice characterizations inconsistent, making it difficult to identify what character was speaking, at times.
The White Russian Caper audiobook is available on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/White-Russian-...].
______________________
Iris Chacon is addicted to coffee, mysteries, and audiobooks. Her latest novel, Duby's Doctor, is available in ebook and paperback [http://tinyurl.com/DubysDrEbook].
Audiobook narrated by Tom Lennon
★★★★ Four stars from reviewer Iris Chacon.
The reviewer received a complimentary download of the audiobook in exchange for an honest, objective review.
Fans of the Damien Dickens mysteries will enjoy the new, more openly affectionate relationship between Damien and Millie. When The White Russian Caper (book two of the series) begins, Damien and Millie are newlyweds, still working together in their private investigations agency. This story contains many surprises, including the abduction of Damien at one point, at which time Millie takes over sleuthing and dealing with dangerous criminals. She has always been a resourceful woman, and she comes into her own in this novel as a full-fledged PI.
The book was fun and contained enough suspense and clever crime-solving to keep me turning pages at a steady pace. The main characters are as winsome, the locales as detailed, the technicalities as well researched as we have come to expect from a Damien Dickens Mystery. Put all that together with a total absence of offensive material, and you have a mystery recommended for all audiences.
I dropped one star for the narrator's mispronunciation of several words, indicating he had not done his homework. I found voice characterizations inconsistent, making it difficult to identify what character was speaking, at times.
The White Russian Caper audiobook is available on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/White-Russian-...].
______________________
Iris Chacon is addicted to coffee, mysteries, and audiobooks. Her latest novel, Duby's Doctor, is available in ebook and paperback [http://tinyurl.com/DubysDrEbook].
February 6, 2020
This is the second book in the Damian Dickens series and Dick and Millie are not only a winning team, they are newly married. Dick is your classic private eye and that shows up here, but it's really Millie's turn to shine as she unravels clues and does all the deductive thinking to get Dick out of trouble later in the book - and Ms. Entis shows how she's really turning this twosome into a partnership! I love how Millie gets to be ultra feminine and smart and strong all at the same time. And that Dick loves and appreciates her for it. I also love the forays into travel and history the book takes - they're off to learn about Russia's Imperial days and they're living in end of the golden days of Atlantic city. And then they're off to Florida when the Indian Casinos were just starting and the drug cartels were becoming a big deal. All this in the middle of a classic detective story while they try to figure out who murdered of all people - Miss America! While no one takes murder lightly, the book is nevertheless light hearted and fun to read. *I requested a review copy of this audiobook and have given my honest opinions*
July 17, 2020
Interesting and enjoyable novel
Book 2 continues with another suspenseful mystery as PI Dickens gets into “hot water”during an adventure as he investigates a murder, a mysterious coin and discovers other nefarious goings-on. Narrator Tom Lennon is exceptional as he brings the characters to vivid life. There are surprises in “The White Russian Caper” that I never saw coming; an intriguing and impressive novel kept my interest and made it hard to take a break. A big thank you once again to author Phyllis Entis for giving me the chance to discover a great series.
👏✍🏻⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✍🏻👏
Book 2 continues with another suspenseful mystery as PI Dickens gets into “hot water”during an adventure as he investigates a murder, a mysterious coin and discovers other nefarious goings-on. Narrator Tom Lennon is exceptional as he brings the characters to vivid life. There are surprises in “The White Russian Caper” that I never saw coming; an intriguing and impressive novel kept my interest and made it hard to take a break. A big thank you once again to author Phyllis Entis for giving me the chance to discover a great series.
👏✍🏻⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✍🏻👏
October 10, 2022
Some characters from the past, some new to us, this is the second in the series book is as good as the first. The reader is not left to feel last if reading as a first book.
The author is excellent at plot twists and turns! We as readers are swept along in the action, kept entertained and engrossed without being overwhelmed with frivolous detail.
It is, however, the narrator that wins the day in this pairing. The books themselves are good, enjoyable, and worth the read. When the books are varied with Tom Lennon’s narration, the series becomes a MUST EXPERIENCE!
The author is excellent at plot twists and turns! We as readers are swept along in the action, kept entertained and engrossed without being overwhelmed with frivolous detail.
It is, however, the narrator that wins the day in this pairing. The books themselves are good, enjoyable, and worth the read. When the books are varied with Tom Lennon’s narration, the series becomes a MUST EXPERIENCE!
August 21, 2019
Audiobook: Our PI, Damian, and his wife, Mollie, are immersed into two seemingly disconnected cases, one the significance of a Russian coin and the other a real estate deal in Florida. The action is none stop with lots of plot twists and intrigue. The writing is wonderful with great characters brought to life by excellent narration. The bonus short story was a real joy.
May 17, 2020
Damien disappears after he was given a coin a Miss America had given to him. His wife Millie goes to hunt for who the abductor might be.Damien is able to escape, and what follows is a good mystery of solving what this Russian coin was. Good and the narration also, was given audio for my voluntary review and my voluntary review
November 14, 2021
Oh what can I say - the Major was perfect. I loved the way the story was broken into three parts and each worked really well. I escaped on a cold British day to the heat of Florida it was brilliant.
I want to say more but these are going to be spoilers so just go with it and you wont regret it.
I was given a free copy by the author but this didn't influence my review.
I want to say more but these are going to be spoilers so just go with it and you wont regret it.
I was given a free copy by the author but this didn't influence my review.
September 2, 2020
This second story was more intense than the first but just as good. The pace it followed was good, with a mix of fast and slow parts. The actual mystery really had me wondering all the way through.
The bonus story was sweet.
The bonus story was sweet.
February 26, 2018
This novel tosses the reader back into a past world of mystery in classic American settings. If you enjoyed the first Damien Dickens mystery you’ll LOVE this.
September 14, 2022
Another enjoyable edition to this series
October 10, 2016
( Format : Audiobook )
"Death, a strange coin and a honeymoon that wasn't"
This is an enjoyable, old fashioned caper set in a time before mobile phones. The central characters are well formed, leaving the memorable impression of a fond couple willing to face hardship and danger for each other and who are invested, not only with generosity towards others but also above average detective skills. When her husband goes missing the day before their belated honeymoon, Millie goes into action.
And there is action aplenty - and food eaten and enjoyed. It feels very human, plausible even.
The narrator has a good voice for this style and era of writing, giving a slightly gravelled, laconic presentation. The reading is steady and clear although, just occasionally, his identification of the speaker seems confused in conversation. This does not, however, distract from the overall story. This is a murder mystery to savour at least as much for the protagonists as the story itself.
There is an additional bonus short story seen from a dog's perspective at the end of the book, totally unrelated to the main mystery.
My thanks to the rights holder of The White Russian Caper, from whom I received a complimentary review copy, via Audiobook Boom
"Death, a strange coin and a honeymoon that wasn't"
This is an enjoyable, old fashioned caper set in a time before mobile phones. The central characters are well formed, leaving the memorable impression of a fond couple willing to face hardship and danger for each other and who are invested, not only with generosity towards others but also above average detective skills. When her husband goes missing the day before their belated honeymoon, Millie goes into action.
And there is action aplenty - and food eaten and enjoyed. It feels very human, plausible even.
The narrator has a good voice for this style and era of writing, giving a slightly gravelled, laconic presentation. The reading is steady and clear although, just occasionally, his identification of the speaker seems confused in conversation. This does not, however, distract from the overall story. This is a murder mystery to savour at least as much for the protagonists as the story itself.
There is an additional bonus short story seen from a dog's perspective at the end of the book, totally unrelated to the main mystery.
My thanks to the rights holder of The White Russian Caper, from whom I received a complimentary review copy, via Audiobook Boom
September 14, 2016
Audiobook review
Hello to old friends!
I've listened to the first book and was very exited to start the second. It was a delightful experience once again and it was like hooking up with old friends! Baby, I'm home!
The Damien Dickens mysteries is an old-school detective series, where the police had no clue and had to investigate with a lot lesser tools than today. In The White Russian Caper, we're in 1980 and also facing the birth of a computerized world. Though, the police had computers in some divisions, the systems couldn't communicate together. Very fun!
Miss America gets beaten up and wounded, but Damien Dickens finds her in time to get her to the hospital. She tells Damien to hold a rare coin for her. The coin has connection to Russia and other people wants it. While Damien tries to investigate the coin further, he disappears.
Damien's wife Millie has a huge role in this book, as she goes after the clues she gets, to find Damien. Millie is a very strong and calm character and her personality really develops in this story. Even she's worried about Damien, she's not afraid to take the next step. I loved Millie in this second book and she is my favorite character now. I also had many great laughs on this journey.
It was impossible for me to guess what would happen next and Phyllis Entis can really write a great mystery. I'm sure to pick up the third book in the series, when published!
Narrator Tom Lennon did a very good narration - again. His female voices is a little funny sometimes, but I get it. It's hard, when you have a deep male voice. He's very much involved in the story and performes with a good sense of humor. You won't be bored!
*This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review. Read all my reviews at My Book Hype
Hello to old friends!
I've listened to the first book and was very exited to start the second. It was a delightful experience once again and it was like hooking up with old friends! Baby, I'm home!
The Damien Dickens mysteries is an old-school detective series, where the police had no clue and had to investigate with a lot lesser tools than today. In The White Russian Caper, we're in 1980 and also facing the birth of a computerized world. Though, the police had computers in some divisions, the systems couldn't communicate together. Very fun!
Miss America gets beaten up and wounded, but Damien Dickens finds her in time to get her to the hospital. She tells Damien to hold a rare coin for her. The coin has connection to Russia and other people wants it. While Damien tries to investigate the coin further, he disappears.
Damien's wife Millie has a huge role in this book, as she goes after the clues she gets, to find Damien. Millie is a very strong and calm character and her personality really develops in this story. Even she's worried about Damien, she's not afraid to take the next step. I loved Millie in this second book and she is my favorite character now. I also had many great laughs on this journey.
It was impossible for me to guess what would happen next and Phyllis Entis can really write a great mystery. I'm sure to pick up the third book in the series, when published!
Narrator Tom Lennon did a very good narration - again. His female voices is a little funny sometimes, but I get it. It's hard, when you have a deep male voice. He's very much involved in the story and performes with a good sense of humor. You won't be bored!
*This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review. Read all my reviews at My Book Hype
November 4, 2016
Summary
A mortally wounded Miss America entrusts a mysterious Russian coin to Damien Dickens, PI, before she dies. After Damien disappears while researching the significance of the coin, Millie tracks her husband's abductor to Florida. When his captor falls to his death from the balcony of a seventh floor apartment, Damien escapes; then he and Millie join forces to unravel the web of intrigue surrounding the Russian coin and its connection to the murder of Miss America.
Review
This is the second book in the series and can probably be read as a standalone, but I would highly recommend that you read The Green Pearl Caper first.
Damien gets a call for help from the somewhat foppish Stephane Major, manager of the Boardwalk Hall, home of the Miss America Pageant. The good Mr. Major is overwrought, Miss America is missing! Damien agrees to meet him at the Boardwalk Hotel and Casino where Miss America - aka Miss Cynthia Mills - has her suite.
When Damien searches her rooms he discovers her in the bathroom. She has been badly beaten and is on the point of death, but she manages to convey to him that he must safeguard an old coin. She dies before she can provide any more information.
The distraught Stephane Major begs Damien for help, Damien accepts, but his investigations lead him in to great danger and he is abducted.
His resourceful wife Millie decides that she will find her husband who, having escaped from his captors has had to undertake a gruelling trek from somewhere in the wilds to somewhere civilised. He becomes ill and confused, eventually a police officer, thinking that Damien was drunk, drugged or crazy, approached him to see what his problem was and, as thanks, got his nose broken! Damien is taken to hospital but nobody knows who he is.
Meanwhile, Millie is still searching for him, and there follows great drama and excitement.
We were introduced to Millie in the first Damien Dickens mystery, "The Green Pearl Caper".
Millie worked as Damien's secretary until things went awry, but happily, they were eventually married. I was delighted to discover that in this latest mystery, Millie's character has been greatly expanded, part of this book is written from Millie's point of view, which, in my opinion is an excellent move, adding dimension and interest to the story.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable listen, a great mystery, lovely ending and with some wonderful characters, Particularly Millie and the unforgettable Mr. Stephane Major, n’est-ce pas?
Narrated by Tom Lennon who, once more does an excellent job. By using just the subtlest changes of tone, rhythm and pitch he makes each character so distinct and recognisable. He is very easy to listen to, his voice never intrudes upon the story but enhances it.
The recording quality is excellent.
Audiobook provided by the narrator, author or publisher for an unbiased review
A mortally wounded Miss America entrusts a mysterious Russian coin to Damien Dickens, PI, before she dies. After Damien disappears while researching the significance of the coin, Millie tracks her husband's abductor to Florida. When his captor falls to his death from the balcony of a seventh floor apartment, Damien escapes; then he and Millie join forces to unravel the web of intrigue surrounding the Russian coin and its connection to the murder of Miss America.
Review
This is the second book in the series and can probably be read as a standalone, but I would highly recommend that you read The Green Pearl Caper first.
Damien gets a call for help from the somewhat foppish Stephane Major, manager of the Boardwalk Hall, home of the Miss America Pageant. The good Mr. Major is overwrought, Miss America is missing! Damien agrees to meet him at the Boardwalk Hotel and Casino where Miss America - aka Miss Cynthia Mills - has her suite.
When Damien searches her rooms he discovers her in the bathroom. She has been badly beaten and is on the point of death, but she manages to convey to him that he must safeguard an old coin. She dies before she can provide any more information.
The distraught Stephane Major begs Damien for help, Damien accepts, but his investigations lead him in to great danger and he is abducted.
His resourceful wife Millie decides that she will find her husband who, having escaped from his captors has had to undertake a gruelling trek from somewhere in the wilds to somewhere civilised. He becomes ill and confused, eventually a police officer, thinking that Damien was drunk, drugged or crazy, approached him to see what his problem was and, as thanks, got his nose broken! Damien is taken to hospital but nobody knows who he is.
Meanwhile, Millie is still searching for him, and there follows great drama and excitement.
We were introduced to Millie in the first Damien Dickens mystery, "The Green Pearl Caper".
Millie worked as Damien's secretary until things went awry, but happily, they were eventually married. I was delighted to discover that in this latest mystery, Millie's character has been greatly expanded, part of this book is written from Millie's point of view, which, in my opinion is an excellent move, adding dimension and interest to the story.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable listen, a great mystery, lovely ending and with some wonderful characters, Particularly Millie and the unforgettable Mr. Stephane Major, n’est-ce pas?
Narrated by Tom Lennon who, once more does an excellent job. By using just the subtlest changes of tone, rhythm and pitch he makes each character so distinct and recognisable. He is very easy to listen to, his voice never intrudes upon the story but enhances it.
The recording quality is excellent.
Audiobook provided by the narrator, author or publisher for an unbiased review
August 10, 2020
Millie's chance to shine.
I had already listened to The Green Pearl Caper, the first book in this detective series, also read by Tom Lennon. I was therefore looking forward to another adventure with Damien Dickens and his secretary, Millie, who is now his wife.
Damien Dickens is entrusted with an old Russian coin by the dying Miss America. He's not sure of the significance of the coin, but it seems that others are interested in it too. Under the cover of finally getting to honeymoon with his new wife, Dickens accepts the task of looking into a surge of criminal behaviour in Florida.
In the last book, Dickens managed to get himself jailed as a suspect, this time he's kidnapped; it seems to be a pretty risky job being a Private Eye in the 70s. The upside of this is that Millie gets a chance to prove herself and I have to say, she makes a pretty good job of it.
It was good to meet old friends from the first episode, one of the advantages of following a series. As I've only recently started reading series, this is a new discovery for me.
Tom Lennon is a reasonable narrator, although some of his accents were a bit dodgy and I find his female voices a bit masculine.
This audiobook contains a bonus short story, Traveler. It's a story about a dog and for me didn't add any value to the book.
The White Russian Caper: 3.5 stars
Traveller: 3 stars
I had already listened to The Green Pearl Caper, the first book in this detective series, also read by Tom Lennon. I was therefore looking forward to another adventure with Damien Dickens and his secretary, Millie, who is now his wife.
Damien Dickens is entrusted with an old Russian coin by the dying Miss America. He's not sure of the significance of the coin, but it seems that others are interested in it too. Under the cover of finally getting to honeymoon with his new wife, Dickens accepts the task of looking into a surge of criminal behaviour in Florida.
In the last book, Dickens managed to get himself jailed as a suspect, this time he's kidnapped; it seems to be a pretty risky job being a Private Eye in the 70s. The upside of this is that Millie gets a chance to prove herself and I have to say, she makes a pretty good job of it.
It was good to meet old friends from the first episode, one of the advantages of following a series. As I've only recently started reading series, this is a new discovery for me.
Tom Lennon is a reasonable narrator, although some of his accents were a bit dodgy and I find his female voices a bit masculine.
This audiobook contains a bonus short story, Traveler. It's a story about a dog and for me didn't add any value to the book.
The White Russian Caper: 3.5 stars
Traveller: 3 stars
August 18, 2016
This was an enjoyable sequel to the first Damien Dickens Mystery. I was particularly interested in this book since I'm fascinated with all things Russian. In this book we see the progression of the relationship between Damien and Millie, as they are now married and attempt a honeymoon, but get pulled into a case. I liked the characters - they are well-written and have admirable qualities (like Millie's kindness and willingness to help). This is also a "clean" read, which is refreshing. I listened to the Audible audio version of this book narrated by Tom Lennon. I thought he was okay. It irked me to hear incorrect pronunciations of Russian words and places and I could detect a faint lisp in parts of the book. Other than that, he does give unique voices to each of the characters and helps to bring you into the story. Overall, a good mystery - great for fans of clean detective fiction.
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