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The Pearl Dagger
As the Great Depression loosens its grip on New York City, Mayor La Guardia and his team meet their greatest foe in the fight against organized crime …
Lane Sanders and her fiery boss, Mayor Fiorello “Fio” La Guardia have managed to contain the explosive underground conspiracies of New York’s most sinister schemers. But after a seemingly harmless pinball racket claims the life of a trusted ally, a new ringleader signals the rebirth of an all-too-familiar crime network at home and across the pond …
Spurred on by the possibility of a violent syndicate spreading like wildfire through Europe, Lane sets sail for London—the city where her parents began the undercover work that led to their tragic undoing. And this time, she won’t chase down childhood nightmares without Finn Brodie, who vows to dispel his own difficult secrets abroad …
While Finn confronts a devious sibling’s plot that echoes Orson Welles’s Voodoo Macbeth, Lane discovers that a dazzling pearl dagger may wield the ultimate clue to guide their hunt for justice on two sides of the ocean. With terrors from the past and present converging, Lane can’t save herself unless she starts believing that, like her weapon of choice, she also has the power to be both beautiful and dangerous.
Lane Sanders and her fiery boss, Mayor Fiorello “Fio” La Guardia have managed to contain the explosive underground conspiracies of New York’s most sinister schemers. But after a seemingly harmless pinball racket claims the life of a trusted ally, a new ringleader signals the rebirth of an all-too-familiar crime network at home and across the pond …
Spurred on by the possibility of a violent syndicate spreading like wildfire through Europe, Lane sets sail for London—the city where her parents began the undercover work that led to their tragic undoing. And this time, she won’t chase down childhood nightmares without Finn Brodie, who vows to dispel his own difficult secrets abroad …
While Finn confronts a devious sibling’s plot that echoes Orson Welles’s Voodoo Macbeth, Lane discovers that a dazzling pearl dagger may wield the ultimate clue to guide their hunt for justice on two sides of the ocean. With terrors from the past and present converging, Lane can’t save herself unless she starts believing that, like her weapon of choice, she also has the power to be both beautiful and dangerous.
352 pages, Paperback
Published August 27, 2019
About the author
L.A. Chandlar
10 books268 followers"I write about beauty out of ashes, friendships, self-discovery, adventure, and the making of monsters." L.A. Chandlar is the award-winning author of the LANE SANDERS MYSTERY SERIES featuring a fresh take on the vitality of late 1930s New York City and the upcoming 2026 THE LOST STORIES "Based on true holiday events that changed the course of history." Laurie has been nominated for the Agatha, Lefty, Macavity and Anthony Awards; and winner of Suspense Magazine’s Crimson Scribe as well as the GANYC Apple Award for Outstanding Achievement in Literature. Laurie’s degrees are in English and PR from The University of Michigan. She’s been living and writing in New York City for over 20 years and has been speaking for a wide variety of audiences including a women’s group with the United Nations. Laurie has also worked in PR for General Motors, is the mother of two sons, and has toured the nation managing a rock band. She is a fierce advocate for women’s rights. She loves coffee and wine; and hates thwarted love and raisins.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 8, 2019
L.A. Chandlar’s Art Deco mysteries continue to be one of the best currently active historical cozy mystery series.
The third installment in the series isn’t quite as wild a ride as the first two, but I appreciated the shift toward more fully focusing on the broader overarching plot of the Red Scroll Network, as well as a little more light being shed on the murder of Lane’s parents and their involvement before their deaths.
This book did have what appeared to be some filler (something delightfully absent from the first two books) in the form of the lengthy side plot involving Finn’s family. A little of this would have been fine, but it took up a lot more ink than it needed to and felt sort of pointless in terms of the bigger picture. I understand that it’s meant as a “this is why Finn is the way he is” segment, which would have been fine had it been a brief aside or if Finn actually behaved like someone with this sort of family backstory, which he doesn’t.
That, however, is my lone complaint. The series’ lovable cast of quirky characters grows more and more lovable with each book, and Chandlar really nails a difficult mix of creepy and crime ridden with cozy and magical to create the perfect atmosphere for this unique series.
And as always, Chandlar’s work-ins of historical figures and events are brilliantly done. I admire her research and ability to blend fact and fiction so seamlessly.
Book four of the series can’t arrive soon enough.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
The third installment in the series isn’t quite as wild a ride as the first two, but I appreciated the shift toward more fully focusing on the broader overarching plot of the Red Scroll Network, as well as a little more light being shed on the murder of Lane’s parents and their involvement before their deaths.
This book did have what appeared to be some filler (something delightfully absent from the first two books) in the form of the lengthy side plot involving Finn’s family. A little of this would have been fine, but it took up a lot more ink than it needed to and felt sort of pointless in terms of the bigger picture. I understand that it’s meant as a “this is why Finn is the way he is” segment, which would have been fine had it been a brief aside or if Finn actually behaved like someone with this sort of family backstory, which he doesn’t.
That, however, is my lone complaint. The series’ lovable cast of quirky characters grows more and more lovable with each book, and Chandlar really nails a difficult mix of creepy and crime ridden with cozy and magical to create the perfect atmosphere for this unique series.
And as always, Chandlar’s work-ins of historical figures and events are brilliantly done. I admire her research and ability to blend fact and fiction so seamlessly.
Book four of the series can’t arrive soon enough.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
July 23, 2019
If you like cozy mysteries set in the Art Deco era of the 1930s, this book is for you. It’s New York City and Prohibition has just ended. Criminal organizations and crime pockets have popped up all over the city. Mayor Fiorello La Guardia is hard at work busting the gangs and ringleaders. A new crime ring from Europe is now threatening to overtake the city. Lane Sanders, La Guardia’s personal aide, sets off to London to investigate the origins and intentions of this violent syndicate. Much to her surprise, a single pearl dagger takes center stage of past and present secrets.
This is the third in the Art Deco Mystery series. I would have liked to have connected with the characters more. However, it’s an interesting and wonderful mix of historical facts and fiction with a strong female protagonist and an engrossing plot.
This is the third in the Art Deco Mystery series. I would have liked to have connected with the characters more. However, it’s an interesting and wonderful mix of historical facts and fiction with a strong female protagonist and an engrossing plot.
August 21, 2019
This is an action-packed, delightful romp of a mystery. Feisty Lane Sanders, an assistant to New York mayor Fiorello La Guardia, and her boyfriend police detective Finn Brodie, find themselves investigating the notorious Red Scroll Network. The investigation finds them chasing through the streets of 1930's New York, dancing at the El Morocco, sailing 1st class aboard the Queen Mary and thwarting the Machiavellian schemes of Finn’s family in London.
Full of adventure and suspense, Chandler’s story is brimming with memorable characters both historical and fictional. The reader comes away with a feel for the time-period through great descriptions of the culture and the daily life. This is a fast moving plot with a great many twists and I highly recommend you read the first two books in order to follow all of the characters and references. This is a fun read!
Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
Full of adventure and suspense, Chandler’s story is brimming with memorable characters both historical and fictional. The reader comes away with a feel for the time-period through great descriptions of the culture and the daily life. This is a fast moving plot with a great many twists and I highly recommend you read the first two books in order to follow all of the characters and references. This is a fun read!
Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC.
August 27, 2019
THE PEARL DAGGER, L. A. Chandlar’s latest Lane Sanders adventure, is an action-packed romp through 1930s New York’s dance clubs, hotels, and halls of power. Lane is a heroine with charm, brains, and guts. Working on special assignment for her boss, Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia, she pursues a criminal syndicate with long-buried ties to her own late parents.
Chandlar’s research is impressive, from lovingly detailed architectural descriptions to transatlantic crossings and swank 1930s New York nightlife. But it’s Lane herself, the engaging star of this series, who will delight readers most.
Cameos by Orson Welles, Winston Churchill, J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and others round out a strong cast of cops, gangsters, reporters, and street urchins.
As fun and exciting as a toboggan ride in snowy Central Park, one of the many treats you’ll find in THE PEARL DAGGER.
Chandlar’s research is impressive, from lovingly detailed architectural descriptions to transatlantic crossings and swank 1930s New York nightlife. But it’s Lane herself, the engaging star of this series, who will delight readers most.
Cameos by Orson Welles, Winston Churchill, J. R. R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, and others round out a strong cast of cops, gangsters, reporters, and street urchins.
As fun and exciting as a toboggan ride in snowy Central Park, one of the many treats you’ll find in THE PEARL DAGGER.
August 5, 2019
Contrary to a lot of historical murder mysteries, the reader enjoys the developments of the characters, who are learning from the events and also of the complexity of the plot, which unravels till the end of the book.
Like a mosaic, the descriptions of the Art Deco buildings enhances the way of life of the characters.
More deeply, ethics is explained without wavering, what is right remains right, and the characters know once for all on which side they are fighting. I will definitely put this title on the reading list for my students, so they can read a fiction grounded on firm beliefs, without sarcasm or corruption. Still, the characters have got a lot of questions and maturity to gain throughout the story, and this is what makes the book compelling.
Be prepared to be surprised by unexpected encounters till the end, it is impossible to guess the details of the story before you finish the book !
Like a mosaic, the descriptions of the Art Deco buildings enhances the way of life of the characters.
More deeply, ethics is explained without wavering, what is right remains right, and the characters know once for all on which side they are fighting. I will definitely put this title on the reading list for my students, so they can read a fiction grounded on firm beliefs, without sarcasm or corruption. Still, the characters have got a lot of questions and maturity to gain throughout the story, and this is what makes the book compelling.
Be prepared to be surprised by unexpected encounters till the end, it is impossible to guess the details of the story before you finish the book !
March 23, 2020
Set in New York in the 1930s, this series follows the adventures of Lane and her boyfriend Finn. In her job as assistant to the famed Mayor Laguardia, Lane is in a good position to see the seamy underside of New York. In this story, she travels back to Ireland to deal with Finn's less than loving family and is also on the trail of the woman responsible for the murder of her parents when Lane was just 10 years old. LA Chandlar does a very good job bringing the locations of the past to life. From the nightclubs to NY to the streets of London, you can almost hear the music and smell the heady perfume. I recommend starting with book #1 in the series since there is quite a bit of back story. However, if you start with this one, as I did, you will still be able to thoroughly enjoy it. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
August 28, 2019
The historical facts in this novel are impressive. Reading about Mayor La Guardia''s 1937 campaign to clean up NYC from corruption and mobsters along with the Art Deco fashion influence was very well done. .
There are a lot of characters to keep track of. Each character is well described and their background stories are interesting. I found having three story lines made the book feel like it was too long though things moved quickly during the various exploits.,
Lane Sanders is the mayor's assistant and her past is very outside the norm. Her backstory is very intriguing and provides a lot of mystery. Her boyfriend, NYPD Detective Finn Brodie has his own past to confront while he and Lane visit London.
I volunteered to read an ARC through Net Galley.
There are a lot of characters to keep track of. Each character is well described and their background stories are interesting. I found having three story lines made the book feel like it was too long though things moved quickly during the various exploits.,
Lane Sanders is the mayor's assistant and her past is very outside the norm. Her backstory is very intriguing and provides a lot of mystery. Her boyfriend, NYPD Detective Finn Brodie has his own past to confront while he and Lane visit London.
I volunteered to read an ARC through Net Galley.
September 5, 2022
This is the first book I read with this author and won't be my last. After the Depression and before WW2 this book has a little bit of everything from murder to romance I loved every page.An excellent cozy historical mystery.I recommend this.
July 24, 2019
The Pearl Dagger is a nice historical mystery with good characters and storyline. This is the first in the series I have read, but I would love to go back nd read the others.
September 12, 2019
Full review can be found here: https://www.criminalelement.com/book-...
July 30, 2025
The 3rd book in L.A. Chandlar's Art Deco series is as good as the 2 before it. Set in New York City in the 1930's, Lane is on to her next mystery while also helping romantic interest, Finn, tackle his 'bad apple of the family' reputation. The great Depression is winding down in the States, but Lane's treacherous foe is still on the loose and determined to continue her cat-and-mouse game with Lane while taking control of New York's underworld. To maintain that control, she sets sail for London to tie up a few loose ends. Lane and Finn are tasked with trailing her, which takes the reader to Finn's family, where we meet his spirited grandmother, ailing father, tight-lipped mother, despicable brother and the girl Finn once loved. I won't ruin anything here, but suffice it to say, Lane isn't about to let Finn's family destroy him, and calls upon friends in high places to help Finn out of a tight jam.
Back in the states, foe Daphne has also returned from London and has joined forces with others to take down the NYPD, Finn and Lane. There are many twists and turns involving Lane and the memories she unravels regarding her past, her friends, and how Daphne will do anything to obtain the power she seeks. Honestly, I cried a little, as there was one part that was just so sad... I also cheered, marveled over the parties and nightclubs Lane and Finn attended (not to mention Lane's clothes) and, as always, enjoyed the backdrop that is NYC. With the addition of real life people, I couldn't read fast enough. Lane makes for a wonderful heroine, full of grit and determination, with a kind heart and a zest for life. Finn is a dashing hero, and Daphne is a villain I enjoy hating while eagerly looking forward to her next move... and the next installment to the series!
Back in the states, foe Daphne has also returned from London and has joined forces with others to take down the NYPD, Finn and Lane. There are many twists and turns involving Lane and the memories she unravels regarding her past, her friends, and how Daphne will do anything to obtain the power she seeks. Honestly, I cried a little, as there was one part that was just so sad... I also cheered, marveled over the parties and nightclubs Lane and Finn attended (not to mention Lane's clothes) and, as always, enjoyed the backdrop that is NYC. With the addition of real life people, I couldn't read fast enough. Lane makes for a wonderful heroine, full of grit and determination, with a kind heart and a zest for life. Finn is a dashing hero, and Daphne is a villain I enjoy hating while eagerly looking forward to her next move... and the next installment to the series!
August 25, 2019
THE PEARL DAGGER by L. A. Chandlar
The Third Art Deco Mystery
Thrilling, exciting, and dangerous, working for Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia is never a walk in the park and Lane Sanders continues to find herself in some tight spots. But Little Flower's latest push to rid New York City of pinball machines leads to results both unexpected and deadly. While the threats could stem from various gangs vying for power, it seems more likely that the Red Scroll Network is back in business. When the heir to the network is identified Lane and her boyfriend, Detective Finn Brodie, head to London.Will they find a way to end this criminal organization once and for all or will they find themselves beset by demons of a more personal nature?
The third Art Deco Mystery continues highlight the importance of the past. While the threat at first seems to be pinball, it is actual dual threats from the past coming for both Lane and Finn in the forms of the Red Scroll Network and Finn's family. Unchecked ambition is at the core of our villains, although, unlike Macbeth and his wife, the modern counterparts are much more patient.
Lane Sanders is an amazing woman. She's strong, intelligent, loyal, determined, and not afraid to be true to herself. I am delighted that I get the opportunity to watch her adventures and see her grow as she learns more about her past. Although she loves fashion and dressing up, Lane is no simpering miss and she doesn't rely on a man to save her. She's a partner, able to support and be supported. In fact, the Art Deco Mystery series is filled with strong independent women. Aunt Evelyn, Vivian, Gwen, and Daphne are also fiercely self reliant with definite purpose, surrounding themselves with people to assist them in their endeavors, but fully able to go it alone, for good or evil!
My favorite part of the book is learning about Orson Welles's VOODOO MACBETH. Indeed the story of MACBETH correlates precisely to THE PEAR DAGGER. I grinned as each similarity appeared. As with Shakespeare's MACBETH, the characters of Chandlar's THE PEAR DAGGER feel the pull of ambition and find it leading them to the edge.
THE PEARL DAGGER is a finely crafted mystery bathed in historical detail. Richly developed characters, dramatic chases, and surprising twists make this book a first rate novel you won't want to miss.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
The Third Art Deco Mystery
Thrilling, exciting, and dangerous, working for Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia is never a walk in the park and Lane Sanders continues to find herself in some tight spots. But Little Flower's latest push to rid New York City of pinball machines leads to results both unexpected and deadly. While the threats could stem from various gangs vying for power, it seems more likely that the Red Scroll Network is back in business. When the heir to the network is identified Lane and her boyfriend, Detective Finn Brodie, head to London.Will they find a way to end this criminal organization once and for all or will they find themselves beset by demons of a more personal nature?
The third Art Deco Mystery continues highlight the importance of the past. While the threat at first seems to be pinball, it is actual dual threats from the past coming for both Lane and Finn in the forms of the Red Scroll Network and Finn's family. Unchecked ambition is at the core of our villains, although, unlike Macbeth and his wife, the modern counterparts are much more patient.
Lane Sanders is an amazing woman. She's strong, intelligent, loyal, determined, and not afraid to be true to herself. I am delighted that I get the opportunity to watch her adventures and see her grow as she learns more about her past. Although she loves fashion and dressing up, Lane is no simpering miss and she doesn't rely on a man to save her. She's a partner, able to support and be supported. In fact, the Art Deco Mystery series is filled with strong independent women. Aunt Evelyn, Vivian, Gwen, and Daphne are also fiercely self reliant with definite purpose, surrounding themselves with people to assist them in their endeavors, but fully able to go it alone, for good or evil!
My favorite part of the book is learning about Orson Welles's VOODOO MACBETH. Indeed the story of MACBETH correlates precisely to THE PEAR DAGGER. I grinned as each similarity appeared. As with Shakespeare's MACBETH, the characters of Chandlar's THE PEAR DAGGER feel the pull of ambition and find it leading them to the edge.
THE PEARL DAGGER is a finely crafted mystery bathed in historical detail. Richly developed characters, dramatic chases, and surprising twists make this book a first rate novel you won't want to miss.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a copy of this book in the hopes I would review it.
September 14, 2019
This is the first installment of the Art Deco Mystery series that I have read. Thank you Kensington Books and Netgalley for this e-ARC for an honest review.
As the is the first installment of the series that I have read, I was a little confused at first about character background. However, I do not think it is necessary to read the other two installments first.
The Pearl Dagger follows Lane Sanders, the aide to NYC Mayor La Guardia. However, there is more to lane than just her day time job at a desk. Pearl Dagger starts out with Lane and her investigator report friend Rourke following and later being chased by two men. After climbing out on a ledge about Grand Central Station, The Pearl Dagger shifts to Lane later being sent to London with her boyfriend and NYC Cop Finn by Mayor La Guardia to dig into what is going on with a troublesome woman named Daphne, who is apparently the heir to a gang/mob/troublesome group called the Red Scrolls.
Along the way, Finn has to battle with family drama that he left behind in England after coming to New York. While there, Lane and Finn find about more about not just his family, but hers as well as they meet with people from her parents' passed that are also connected to Daphne.
In London we see cameos from Mr. Winston Churchill (before he was PM), J.R.R Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
Things heat up as Lane and Finn return to NYC, where they are both targets of Daphne and her crew. Between a coworker's funeral, Valentine's Day and some Voodoo MacBeth, will the two live to see another day?
As someone who loves cozy little art deco mysteries, like this I am glad that I got the opportunity to read and review this book.
It reminded me a bit of Susan Elia MacNeal's Maggie Hope series set around the same time in London. I can't wait to read the first two installments of this series in order to understand more of the character development.
As the is the first installment of the series that I have read, I was a little confused at first about character background. However, I do not think it is necessary to read the other two installments first.
The Pearl Dagger follows Lane Sanders, the aide to NYC Mayor La Guardia. However, there is more to lane than just her day time job at a desk. Pearl Dagger starts out with Lane and her investigator report friend Rourke following and later being chased by two men. After climbing out on a ledge about Grand Central Station, The Pearl Dagger shifts to Lane later being sent to London with her boyfriend and NYC Cop Finn by Mayor La Guardia to dig into what is going on with a troublesome woman named Daphne, who is apparently the heir to a gang/mob/troublesome group called the Red Scrolls.
Along the way, Finn has to battle with family drama that he left behind in England after coming to New York. While there, Lane and Finn find about more about not just his family, but hers as well as they meet with people from her parents' passed that are also connected to Daphne.
In London we see cameos from Mr. Winston Churchill (before he was PM), J.R.R Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.
Things heat up as Lane and Finn return to NYC, where they are both targets of Daphne and her crew. Between a coworker's funeral, Valentine's Day and some Voodoo MacBeth, will the two live to see another day?
As someone who loves cozy little art deco mysteries, like this I am glad that I got the opportunity to read and review this book.
It reminded me a bit of Susan Elia MacNeal's Maggie Hope series set around the same time in London. I can't wait to read the first two installments of this series in order to understand more of the character development.
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July 22, 2025Dear Reader-
I wanted to write since it's been a while! I am doing a Giveaway soon for this one in preparation for the release of Book 4 this December - The Hindenburg Spy! I so appreciate your interest. You know, this book is important to me and it was so hard that just after it released, I went through a major traumatic situation, then just a couple months later we were all in lockdown for the pandemic. Yet...even though all that... The Pearl Dagger still won the Suspense Magazine Crimson Scribe Award and the GANYC Apple Award for Outstanding Fiction. I wish I could have done even more and gone to all the conferences to share with readers about it all, but I am so happy that NOW I get to do a giveaway soon and continue the adventure in The Hindenburg Spy.
In Pearl, I take Lane and Finn on a field trip to England. In the previous book, Lane had to face the ghosts of her past. In Pearl, it's Finn's turn. His troubled past with his treacherous family is finally revealed and I have fabulous cameos with the up and coming Winston Churchill and my favorite: The Inklings in Oxford (JRR Tolkein and CS Lewis). It all culminates in an unforgettable viewing of Orson Welles's Voodoo Macbeth in New York City. I'm tellin' ya, if I could go back in time, seeing that play would be one of the things I'd most like to do! Absolute MAGIC.
I hope you enjoy! Thanks so much for being the best readers!
-Laurie
I wanted to write since it's been a while! I am doing a Giveaway soon for this one in preparation for the release of Book 4 this December - The Hindenburg Spy! I so appreciate your interest. You know, this book is important to me and it was so hard that just after it released, I went through a major traumatic situation, then just a couple months later we were all in lockdown for the pandemic. Yet...even though all that... The Pearl Dagger still won the Suspense Magazine Crimson Scribe Award and the GANYC Apple Award for Outstanding Fiction. I wish I could have done even more and gone to all the conferences to share with readers about it all, but I am so happy that NOW I get to do a giveaway soon and continue the adventure in The Hindenburg Spy.
In Pearl, I take Lane and Finn on a field trip to England. In the previous book, Lane had to face the ghosts of her past. In Pearl, it's Finn's turn. His troubled past with his treacherous family is finally revealed and I have fabulous cameos with the up and coming Winston Churchill and my favorite: The Inklings in Oxford (JRR Tolkein and CS Lewis). It all culminates in an unforgettable viewing of Orson Welles's Voodoo Macbeth in New York City. I'm tellin' ya, if I could go back in time, seeing that play would be one of the things I'd most like to do! Absolute MAGIC.
I hope you enjoy! Thanks so much for being the best readers!
-Laurie
July 22, 2019
The charm of this book for me is the glimpses in to Fioro La Guardia's mayoral office in the early 1030's. I love the local color that L.A. Chandler infuses in the book---dancing at El Morocco, the Art Deco features of the new skyscrapers, and the "gangster glamour" that permeated the period.
This is the second book in Chandlar's series that I've read and I think it is best to read them as a gentle adult adventure story, rather than a mystery series. I was a Nancy Drew fan as a young girl, and these are a more mature successor to that genre (in my mind).
The writing is descriptive, but not particularly colorful, and my most constructive criticism is that we spend a lot of time with a fairly robust cast of crime-solving colleagues (including the mayor) and I have behavioral characteristics for them, but somehow the writing never was descriptive enough that I could actually envision any of them. I love to "cast" the book as a movie as I read it---and, with the exception of the stock villains, I would be hard pressed to adequately select an actor whom I felt was "true" to the book. Because they were never clearly presented to me in terms that would allow me to do that.
This book has adventure, charm and some wit, but is not really a compelling read.
Netgalley provided me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in Chandlar's series that I've read and I think it is best to read them as a gentle adult adventure story, rather than a mystery series. I was a Nancy Drew fan as a young girl, and these are a more mature successor to that genre (in my mind).
The writing is descriptive, but not particularly colorful, and my most constructive criticism is that we spend a lot of time with a fairly robust cast of crime-solving colleagues (including the mayor) and I have behavioral characteristics for them, but somehow the writing never was descriptive enough that I could actually envision any of them. I love to "cast" the book as a movie as I read it---and, with the exception of the stock villains, I would be hard pressed to adequately select an actor whom I felt was "true" to the book. Because they were never clearly presented to me in terms that would allow me to do that.
This book has adventure, charm and some wit, but is not really a compelling read.
Netgalley provided me a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2019
I enjoyed reading The Pearl Dagger. Set in the 1930's in New York it features Lane Sanders and her boss Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia in their fight against organized crime. The book is full of twists and turns and the characters are so descriptive. I highly recommend the book!
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September 6, 2025I’m disappointed there doesn’t appear to be a fourth in this series and therefore no resolution the the mystery of the main character’s family story threading through the stories.
October 22, 2019
Description
As the Great Depression loosens its grip on New York City, Mayor La Guardia and his team meet their greatest foe in the fight against organized crime … Lane Sanders and her fiery boss, Mayor Fiorello “Fio” La Guardia have managed to contain the explosive underground conspiracies of New York’s most sinister schemers. But after a seemingly harmless pinball racket claims the life of a trusted ally, a new ringleader signals the rebirth of an all-too-familiar crime network at home and across the pond … Spurred on by the possibility of a violent syndicate spreading like wildfire through Europe, Lane sets sail for London—the city where her parents began the undercover work that led to their tragic undoing. And this time, she won’t chase down childhood nightmares without Finn Brodie, who vows to dispel his own difficult secrets abroad … While Finn confronts a devious sibling’s plot that echoes Orson Welles’s Voodoo Macbeth, Lane discovers that a dazzling pearl dagger may wield the ultimate clue to guide their hunt for justice on two sides of the ocean. With terrors from the past and present converging, Lane can’t save herself unless she starts believing that, like her weapon of choice, she also has the power to be both beautiful and dangerous.
My Review:
The Pearl Dagger is a cozy historical mystery that will keep you interested into the very end. It is the third book in the series, and although I have not read the previous two I was able to follow without any confusion. The story Lane from New York City to the streets of London in this historical mystery.
The characters were well developed and the story line kept me interested until the very end.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion.
As the Great Depression loosens its grip on New York City, Mayor La Guardia and his team meet their greatest foe in the fight against organized crime … Lane Sanders and her fiery boss, Mayor Fiorello “Fio” La Guardia have managed to contain the explosive underground conspiracies of New York’s most sinister schemers. But after a seemingly harmless pinball racket claims the life of a trusted ally, a new ringleader signals the rebirth of an all-too-familiar crime network at home and across the pond … Spurred on by the possibility of a violent syndicate spreading like wildfire through Europe, Lane sets sail for London—the city where her parents began the undercover work that led to their tragic undoing. And this time, she won’t chase down childhood nightmares without Finn Brodie, who vows to dispel his own difficult secrets abroad … While Finn confronts a devious sibling’s plot that echoes Orson Welles’s Voodoo Macbeth, Lane discovers that a dazzling pearl dagger may wield the ultimate clue to guide their hunt for justice on two sides of the ocean. With terrors from the past and present converging, Lane can’t save herself unless she starts believing that, like her weapon of choice, she also has the power to be both beautiful and dangerous.
My Review:
The Pearl Dagger is a cozy historical mystery that will keep you interested into the very end. It is the third book in the series, and although I have not read the previous two I was able to follow without any confusion. The story Lane from New York City to the streets of London in this historical mystery.
The characters were well developed and the story line kept me interested until the very end.
I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest opinion.
August 22, 2019
I received an Advanced Reading Copy in exchange for an honest review!
The Pearl Dagger is the third novel in the Art Deco Mystery series. Throughout the novel, there are wonderful sartorial descriptions of what the characters are wearing. I loved the mention of different places like the Rockfeller Center Skating Rink!
We find out the story behind the Pearl Dagger when Lane and her policeman boyfriend Finn visit England and meet a man, a veteran of the First World War, that Lane's parents had rescued.
Lane Sanders is a young professional woman, working for the Mayor of New York, Fio La Guardia. Finn Brodie is a policeman. They are chasing a criminal when they discover that the criminal may have travelled to England so they follow the criminal to England. While they are in England, Lane finds out more about Finn's nefarious family. We find out more about Finn's family.
We meet real life characters like Orson Welles, Winston Churchill, Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Some of the chapters started with a quote from the Scottish play.
The historical details are interwoven with the mysteries in a wonderful way.
Reading the Art Deco Mystery series introduced me to New York City history. I knew that the airport was named after La Guardia. I found myself googling to learn more about La Guardia. There is a list of books at the end of the novel if you want to learn more about the history of NYC.
The Pearl Dagger is the third novel in the Art Deco Mystery series. Throughout the novel, there are wonderful sartorial descriptions of what the characters are wearing. I loved the mention of different places like the Rockfeller Center Skating Rink!
We find out the story behind the Pearl Dagger when Lane and her policeman boyfriend Finn visit England and meet a man, a veteran of the First World War, that Lane's parents had rescued.
Lane Sanders is a young professional woman, working for the Mayor of New York, Fio La Guardia. Finn Brodie is a policeman. They are chasing a criminal when they discover that the criminal may have travelled to England so they follow the criminal to England. While they are in England, Lane finds out more about Finn's nefarious family. We find out more about Finn's family.
We meet real life characters like Orson Welles, Winston Churchill, Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. Some of the chapters started with a quote from the Scottish play.
The historical details are interwoven with the mysteries in a wonderful way.
Reading the Art Deco Mystery series introduced me to New York City history. I knew that the airport was named after La Guardia. I found myself googling to learn more about La Guardia. There is a list of books at the end of the novel if you want to learn more about the history of NYC.
October 17, 2019
As the Great Depression loosens its grip on New York City, Mayor La Guardia and his team meet their greatest foe in the fight against organized crime ...
Lane Sanders and her fiery boss, Mayor Fiorello "Fio" La Guardia have managed to contain the explosive underground conspiracies of New York's most sinister schemers. But after a seemingly harmless pinball racket claims the life of a trusted ally, a new ringleader signals the rebirth of an all-too-familiar crime network at home and across the pond ...
Spurred on by the possibility of a violent syndicate spreading like wildfire through Europe, Lane sets sail for London--the city where her parents began the undercover work that led to their tragic undoing. And this time, she won't chase down childhood nightmares without Finn Brodie, who vows to dispel his own difficult secrets abroad ...
While Finn confronts a devious sibling's plot that echoes Orson Welles's Voodoo Macbeth, Lane discovers that a dazzling pearl dagger may wield the ultimate clue to guide their hunt for justice on two sides of the ocean. With terrors from the past and present converging, Lane can't save herself unless she starts believing that, like her weapon of choice, she also has the power to be both beautiful and dangerous.
A good book but not knowing the back story made it a bit difficult to follow. Need to go back and read the earlier books.
Lane Sanders and her fiery boss, Mayor Fiorello "Fio" La Guardia have managed to contain the explosive underground conspiracies of New York's most sinister schemers. But after a seemingly harmless pinball racket claims the life of a trusted ally, a new ringleader signals the rebirth of an all-too-familiar crime network at home and across the pond ...
Spurred on by the possibility of a violent syndicate spreading like wildfire through Europe, Lane sets sail for London--the city where her parents began the undercover work that led to their tragic undoing. And this time, she won't chase down childhood nightmares without Finn Brodie, who vows to dispel his own difficult secrets abroad ...
While Finn confronts a devious sibling's plot that echoes Orson Welles's Voodoo Macbeth, Lane discovers that a dazzling pearl dagger may wield the ultimate clue to guide their hunt for justice on two sides of the ocean. With terrors from the past and present converging, Lane can't save herself unless she starts believing that, like her weapon of choice, she also has the power to be both beautiful and dangerous.
A good book but not knowing the back story made it a bit difficult to follow. Need to go back and read the earlier books.
March 4, 2020
This has been a favourite series for me. I really loved the first book, but each successive book has grabbed me just a little less. I struggled to stick with this one all the way to the end. I made it, and I'm glad I did, but I'm not sure I'll continue with this series, assuming more books are planned.
I think the thing I really loved about the first book was the setting of 20's New York, and having Fiorello LaGuardia as a character with a big role as Lane's boss. I loved running around NYC with them as they had adventures and got into and out of trouble. That pretty much disappeared after the first book, as Lane's family secrets were investigated.
I didn't mind Lane's family story becoming part of the action, but it took over the focus more than I was really interested in. Then we started delving into Finn's family dramas - which were a big focus in this book - and I really wasn't interested in that plot line.
These are good books, well-written, with interesting characters and plenty of action and suspense. The last couple of books have just shifted the focus in a direction that wasn't as interesting to me as the focus of the first book was. Every book doesn't work for every reader. This series just seems to have turned in a direction that doesn't interest me. C'est la vie!
I think the thing I really loved about the first book was the setting of 20's New York, and having Fiorello LaGuardia as a character with a big role as Lane's boss. I loved running around NYC with them as they had adventures and got into and out of trouble. That pretty much disappeared after the first book, as Lane's family secrets were investigated.
I didn't mind Lane's family story becoming part of the action, but it took over the focus more than I was really interested in. Then we started delving into Finn's family dramas - which were a big focus in this book - and I really wasn't interested in that plot line.
These are good books, well-written, with interesting characters and plenty of action and suspense. The last couple of books have just shifted the focus in a direction that wasn't as interesting to me as the focus of the first book was. Every book doesn't work for every reader. This series just seems to have turned in a direction that doesn't interest me. C'est la vie!
August 16, 2019
The Pearl Dagger is the latest wonderful addition to the Art Deco Mystery series. This third book in the series ratchets up the tension as Lane and Finn and their cohorts close in on the head of the nefarious Red Scroll network. One of the things I loved about this book was the secondary plot line that takes Lane and Finn to London, where we finally learn the secrets in Finn’s past that led to him eventually coming to New York. We also learn more secrets in the UK about the past regarding Lane’s parents.
Along with a compelling and satisfying mystery narrative, there are lots of amazing bits of history thrown into the mix, from Orson Wells production of “Voodoo” Macbeth, to insights into New York night life at the Savoy and El Morocco, as well as numerous incredible actions by Mayor Fio La Guardia (that prove truth is stranger than fiction – at least in Fio’s case!).
L.A. Chandlar really succeeds in bringing this dynamic period in New York to life. The cast of characters in the series continue to get more complex and compelling. I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next in the series.
I received a copy of The Pearl Dagger from NetGalley for an honest review.
Along with a compelling and satisfying mystery narrative, there are lots of amazing bits of history thrown into the mix, from Orson Wells production of “Voodoo” Macbeth, to insights into New York night life at the Savoy and El Morocco, as well as numerous incredible actions by Mayor Fio La Guardia (that prove truth is stranger than fiction – at least in Fio’s case!).
L.A. Chandlar really succeeds in bringing this dynamic period in New York to life. The cast of characters in the series continue to get more complex and compelling. I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next in the series.
I received a copy of The Pearl Dagger from NetGalley for an honest review.
August 25, 2019
Historical mysteries are tops on my list and when they involve real life people, well, yeas please. Add to that one of the most interesting periods, Art Deco with some of the most beautiful art ever created - from skyscrapers to fashion and it's a glorious background for a mystery series. This, the third in the series, can be read as a stand alone but the reader, new to the series, would be better served by starting with The Silver Gun and really get to know Lane Sanders, her larger than life boss Mayor LaGuardia and Finn Brodie, her policeman boyfriend. Set against the glitz, glamour and crime of New York City, it's a feast for the senses.
Partly set in New York City and across the Pond, Lane and Finn follow a crime ring, the Red Scroll, to London which leads them both to secrets from their respective family's past. We meet Orson Wells and Winston Churchill and we see the party crowds at the Savoy and El Morocco. While the characters were well drawn and the mystery was satisfying, I found the setting to be the biggest draw for me. I am ready for the fourth book and hopefully more than that.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Partly set in New York City and across the Pond, Lane and Finn follow a crime ring, the Red Scroll, to London which leads them both to secrets from their respective family's past. We meet Orson Wells and Winston Churchill and we see the party crowds at the Savoy and El Morocco. While the characters were well drawn and the mystery was satisfying, I found the setting to be the biggest draw for me. I am ready for the fourth book and hopefully more than that.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 30, 2019
Princess Fuzzypants here: There are books that throw a lot of information at the reader, especially in historical fiction, but because it all fits together like a puzzle, it blends nicely. Sometimes it feels a bit like the “kitchen sink” has been tossed in and while all the different elements on their own are interesting, there is almost too much. This story goes back and forth across the Atlantic and has many stellar historical people entwined in the story. It has everyone from Fiorello LaGuardia to Winston Churchill and Stanley Baldwin to Orson Welles. They all play roles in the tale of Lane and Finn who both work for the Mayor. The two are trying to figure out what a supposedly defunct criminal organization has to do with pinballs in New York.
There are politicians and crime czars and spies and cops. There is a lot going on and it is suspenseful and exciting. But it just feels at times like there is too much and it does detract a bit from the main story. However, if you enjoy celebrity laden historical fiction, you may enjoy all the extra bits.
Four purrs and one paw up.
There are politicians and crime czars and spies and cops. There is a lot going on and it is suspenseful and exciting. But it just feels at times like there is too much and it does detract a bit from the main story. However, if you enjoy celebrity laden historical fiction, you may enjoy all the extra bits.
Four purrs and one paw up.
February 3, 2020
1937--New York. The Pearl Dagger by L. A. Chandlar takes us back 80 years to the rein of Fiorello La Guardia, the 99th mayor of New York. In this book, twenty-three year old Lane Sanders is the mayor's personal aide. Mayor La Guardia loathes gangsters who bring their negative stereotypes and shame to the Italian community, while there are secrets in Lane's past that are connected to the crime network and her parents' subsequent deaths. Her recent boyfriend, New York detective Finn Brodie, has Lane's back. I enjoyed the characters and the action even though I haven't read the first two books in the series yet. Now I definitely want to read them. (I enjoyed seeing the famous people that the author mentions throughout the book. J. R. R. Tolkien wrote The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, and the Hobbit-hole of Bag's End got it's name from his Aunt Jane's farm. Warren Lewis was the older brother of C. S. Lewis of The Chronicles of Narnia fame).
March 17, 2020
This is a wonderful series that really brings New York City in the 1930s to life for me. Lane is spunky and I like how she trusts her instincts, and how loyal and supportive she is to her boyfriend Finn, especially in this book. This book takes place in New York City, but Lane and Finn also travel to England to do some research which was a nice change for Lane. The mystery is still unfolding of the story of Lane's parents which I find very interesting and how it ties in with the current mystery. I love how the author includes real people in the story and how she explains which details are real in the author's notes at the back of the book. Although all of the books in the series build on each other, they could be read as stand alones. But I would recommend reading them all. I can't wait for the next book!
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 16, 2019
Hard to categorize but fun to read, this continues the story of Lane Sanders, an aide to Mayor LaGuardia. Don't worry if you didn't read the first two- Chandlar gives you enough back story to charge ahead and enjoy the story. Lane's an unusual crime fighter for the 1930s, or today for that matter. She's got tragedy in her past; her parents were murdered and she's never really gotten the whole story. This time out, she's off to London to uncover more info about a group of bad guys threatening in New York and she's with Finn, her love interest who has some darkness in his own background. She's quite intrepid and she's going to find out more than, well, maybe more than she might want to know. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. For fans of historical mysteries which feature real people as characters!
August 25, 2019
I'm in two mind about this book: on one side I found it a fun read, full of humour, on the other side I found the plot a bit confusing at times and with an unnecessary subplot.
The characters are quirky and larger than life, the historical background is interesting and well researched for the USA part but it seemed a bit of a fantasy for the UK part.
I assume I had some issues with the plot because I didn't read the first instalment in this series.
I think there's a lot of potential in this series and I'm curious about the next instalment.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
The characters are quirky and larger than life, the historical background is interesting and well researched for the USA part but it seemed a bit of a fantasy for the UK part.
I assume I had some issues with the plot because I didn't read the first instalment in this series.
I think there's a lot of potential in this series and I'm curious about the next instalment.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
August 30, 2019
The Pearl Dagger by L.A. Chandler will not disappoint readers with its villains and gangsters set in the 1930’s. Lane Sanders works for Mayor Fiorello La Guardia who is Mayor of New York City. A monster named Crusher is determined to get rid of Fiorello as he tries to rid his city of mobsters and organized crime. Lane and Detective Finn are dating so that incorporates some romance into this cozy, thrilling storyline. A really good mystery filled with intrigue, twists and turns, danger, and even a bit of humor. The suspense will keep the reader in suspense from beginning to end. The author
February 10, 2020
Chandlar's series about Lane Sanders and her boss Fiorelo La Guardia continue with this book . The pearl dagger she has carried with her begins to reveal its history - and some secrets about her background and family history.
The author's descriptions of the life and times in both New York and London include many real events, places, and people that are cleverly woven into the adventures of Lane, Finn, Fio and others. The colorful 1930's in New York come alive and Lane is a modern feisty lady who always seems to overcome the bad guys like all super heroes should!
A fun read
The author's descriptions of the life and times in both New York and London include many real events, places, and people that are cleverly woven into the adventures of Lane, Finn, Fio and others. The colorful 1930's in New York come alive and Lane is a modern feisty lady who always seems to overcome the bad guys like all super heroes should!
A fun read
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