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Sam Blackman #4
A Murder in Passing
"This fascinating mystery, merging past and present, brings some little-known history to light and shows that laws change much faster than attitudes..." —Booklist
Things are slow at the Blackman & Robertson Detective Agency. So when Nakayla Robertson suggests a mushroom hunt at the historic, freed-slave commune The Kingdom of the Happy Land, Sam Blackman reluctantly agrees. Hunting the elusive edible, he stumbles into a rotting log...with a skeleton hidden inside. He's intrigued, but local authorities tell him to butt out.
Then Marsha Montgomery comes to Asheville asking Sam and Nakayla to investigate a 45-year-old burglary at her mother's home. Someone stole a rifle and a photograph taken in 1932 at The Kingdom of the Happy Land. Is this just a coincidence?
Then Marsha's 85-year-old mother Lucille is arrested for murder, and Sam knows something is amiss. Is the skeleton that of Jimmy Lang, Lucille's lover and Martha's father, a white man who disappeared in 1967? A veil of betrayal and deceit hides a killer desperate to protect a dark secret, and not even Sam is safe from the deadly consequences of a murder in passing.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2013
22 people are currently reading
136 people want to read
About the author
Mark de Castrique
29 books166 followersMark de Castrique is an author, playwright, public speaker, and television producer living in Charlotte.
Through his company MARK et al., he writes, shoots, and edits projects for a variety of clients.
His work has earned CLIO, TELLY, and EMMY awards.
Mark has scripted stories aired on PBS and commercial network affiliates, as well as created video presentations for major corporations.
Through his company MARK et al., he writes, shoots, and edits projects for a variety of clients.
His work has earned CLIO, TELLY, and EMMY awards.
Mark has scripted stories aired on PBS and commercial network affiliates, as well as created video presentations for major corporations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
November 16, 2024
There’s no literary connection in the fourth entry in Mark de Castrique’s in his powerful series featuring one-legged veteran Sam Blackman and his partner in work and love, Nakayla Robertson. But the suspense, clever writing and snappy dialogue remain.
Sam and Nakayla again investigate a crime from long ago, this time the probable murder of a white garbage hauler who disappeared in 1967. Possible motives for the death of Jimmy Lang include a stolen (probably valuable) photograph, a garbage-hauling contract and his union with a Black woman and their biracial daughter at a time when such was forbidden in North Carolina (and most of the South). And that ending! Readers will find A Murder in Passing just as stellar as the rest of the novels in this series.
Here you see the real-life renowned photographer Doris Ulmann and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Julia Peterkin, who play a central role in this novel.
Sam and Nakayla again investigate a crime from long ago, this time the probable murder of a white garbage hauler who disappeared in 1967. Possible motives for the death of Jimmy Lang include a stolen (probably valuable) photograph, a garbage-hauling contract and his union with a Black woman and their biracial daughter at a time when such was forbidden in North Carolina (and most of the South). And that ending! Readers will find A Murder in Passing just as stellar as the rest of the novels in this series.
Here you see the real-life renowned photographer Doris Ulmann and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Julia Peterkin, who play a central role in this novel.
December 4, 2023
A MURDER IN PASSING
Mark de Castrique
Sam Spade kinda feel.. But I had to say the plot was very interesting. The murder is a cold case a lifetime ago and deals with race relations from then vs. now. A good reminder for those who didn't live through the changes that the world is a better place now.
I might read another of in the series.
4 stars
Happy Reading!
Mark de Castrique
Sam Spade kinda feel.. But I had to say the plot was very interesting. The murder is a cold case a lifetime ago and deals with race relations from then vs. now. A good reminder for those who didn't live through the changes that the world is a better place now.
I might read another of in the series.
4 stars
Happy Reading!
September 28, 2020
Sam Blackman is a character I would like to have in my network. As a character type, he is more along the Robert Parker's Spencer than any of Mickey Spillane's P.I.s. He drives an eco friendly car, enjoys a good glass of wine or a micro brew, and is known to pick up a book. For a man of the South,
he has tried to remove prejudice from his world view. He sees people first, then their skin color. His partner, Nykayla Robertson, who is both his professional partner and life partner, is also someone
I would invite for tea. She is savvy, perceptive, organized with a wry sense of humor. Without Nykayla there would be no Sam Blackman series.
Following his usual pattern, de Castrique introduces the reader to some historical information set in North Carolina. The Kingdom of the Happy Land, located near Tuxedo North Carolina, was founded during the Reconstruction period after the Civil War. It is speculated that up to 200-400 freed slaves lived there during the settlement's most active period. Their political structure was unusual, as they were governed by a King and a Queen. Long abandoned, the property was sold at auction, the land is now returning to nature.
In Murder in Passing, the Kingdom has become a site for mushroom hunters. Sam is prodded by Nykayla learn a new skill; reluctantly he joins a hunt. Sam finds more than mushrooms, he trips and falls through a hollow log, uncovering a skeleton. There are so many questions from this event: who is the dead person? Why is he/she? in the log? Does Marsha Montgomery have any connection to the skeleton? And why was a rifle and a photo taken from her mother's home? Sam suspects he is being played, but no matter. He and the reader are drawn into a delightfully twisted mystery.
I mentioned Sam sees people, not skin color. How appropriate then, is this mystery that discusses the ugly concept of miscegenation. Some younger readers will find it difficult to believe that marriage between PoC and Caucasians was illegal in many parts of the United States until 1967.
interracial couples had little resources to help them. Sam, and this reader is very happy that the term miscegenation is now an obsolete law term, and now only used by those who cling to the past.
Published in 2013, Volume 4 of the Blackman series is alarmingly current today. This would be an excellent choice for Book Clubs. Readers of all ages would benefit from reading A Murder in Passing.
Recommended.
he has tried to remove prejudice from his world view. He sees people first, then their skin color. His partner, Nykayla Robertson, who is both his professional partner and life partner, is also someone
I would invite for tea. She is savvy, perceptive, organized with a wry sense of humor. Without Nykayla there would be no Sam Blackman series.
Following his usual pattern, de Castrique introduces the reader to some historical information set in North Carolina. The Kingdom of the Happy Land, located near Tuxedo North Carolina, was founded during the Reconstruction period after the Civil War. It is speculated that up to 200-400 freed slaves lived there during the settlement's most active period. Their political structure was unusual, as they were governed by a King and a Queen. Long abandoned, the property was sold at auction, the land is now returning to nature.
In Murder in Passing, the Kingdom has become a site for mushroom hunters. Sam is prodded by Nykayla learn a new skill; reluctantly he joins a hunt. Sam finds more than mushrooms, he trips and falls through a hollow log, uncovering a skeleton. There are so many questions from this event: who is the dead person? Why is he/she? in the log? Does Marsha Montgomery have any connection to the skeleton? And why was a rifle and a photo taken from her mother's home? Sam suspects he is being played, but no matter. He and the reader are drawn into a delightfully twisted mystery.
I mentioned Sam sees people, not skin color. How appropriate then, is this mystery that discusses the ugly concept of miscegenation. Some younger readers will find it difficult to believe that marriage between PoC and Caucasians was illegal in many parts of the United States until 1967.
interracial couples had little resources to help them. Sam, and this reader is very happy that the term miscegenation is now an obsolete law term, and now only used by those who cling to the past.
Published in 2013, Volume 4 of the Blackman series is alarmingly current today. This would be an excellent choice for Book Clubs. Readers of all ages would benefit from reading A Murder in Passing.
Recommended.
April 19, 2013
First Sentence: “So, where are we going?”
Investigators Sam Blackman and Nakayla Robertson head out looking for mushrooms on the site of an historic, freed-slave commune called The Kingdom of the Happy Land. In addition to mushrooms, Sam also finds a body. Wedged inside a rotting log with a spent bullet, this was no natural death. When Marsha Montgomery asks the pair to investigate the 1967 theft of a rifle and photograph, taken on the same site, Sam becomes suspicious. His concerns are realized with Marsh’s elderly mother is arrested for the murder of Jimmy Lang, believed to be the corpse. The question is whether this is about race, or is it about greed?
De Castrique provides us with a very good, compelling first chapter that makes us want to read more. His voice is easy with natural dialogue, although the bantering and self-deprecating humor can become a bit heavy-handed.
One of his great strengths is mixing the factual with the fictional. Learning new things is always wonderful and theirs is so much to learn here, both about recent and distant historical figures, regional and American history, ballistics, and of working with vets at the VA hospital. All of this is seamlessly woven into the story giving it a richness and veracity which enhances the experience. There is even a delightful nod to author Lee Child and his Jack Reacher series of books.
Sam, Nakayla—is partner in the firm and in life—and attorney Hewitt Donaldson are very good characters. Even if this is your first experience with the series, you are provided enough background to know who they are and their relationships to one another. If anything, a bit of editing could be recommended as we are reminded way too many times of how Sam and Nakayla met. It’s a smallish criticism but it was an element of which I became very aware.
On the other hand, it’s nice when an author uses coincidence as a deliberate element of the plot structure, rather than the only way they can think to get to the next point. That’s good writing.
“A Murder in Passing” has a very good plot filled with twists, turns and an excellent surprise. I very much enjoy Mr. de Castrique’s writing, both in this series and in his Barry Clayton series.
A MURDER IN PASSING (Lic Invest-Sam Blackman/Nakayla Robertson-North Carolina-Contemp) – G+
de Castrique, Mark – 4th in series
Poisoned Pen Press, 2013
Investigators Sam Blackman and Nakayla Robertson head out looking for mushrooms on the site of an historic, freed-slave commune called The Kingdom of the Happy Land. In addition to mushrooms, Sam also finds a body. Wedged inside a rotting log with a spent bullet, this was no natural death. When Marsha Montgomery asks the pair to investigate the 1967 theft of a rifle and photograph, taken on the same site, Sam becomes suspicious. His concerns are realized with Marsh’s elderly mother is arrested for the murder of Jimmy Lang, believed to be the corpse. The question is whether this is about race, or is it about greed?
De Castrique provides us with a very good, compelling first chapter that makes us want to read more. His voice is easy with natural dialogue, although the bantering and self-deprecating humor can become a bit heavy-handed.
One of his great strengths is mixing the factual with the fictional. Learning new things is always wonderful and theirs is so much to learn here, both about recent and distant historical figures, regional and American history, ballistics, and of working with vets at the VA hospital. All of this is seamlessly woven into the story giving it a richness and veracity which enhances the experience. There is even a delightful nod to author Lee Child and his Jack Reacher series of books.
Sam, Nakayla—is partner in the firm and in life—and attorney Hewitt Donaldson are very good characters. Even if this is your first experience with the series, you are provided enough background to know who they are and their relationships to one another. If anything, a bit of editing could be recommended as we are reminded way too many times of how Sam and Nakayla met. It’s a smallish criticism but it was an element of which I became very aware.
On the other hand, it’s nice when an author uses coincidence as a deliberate element of the plot structure, rather than the only way they can think to get to the next point. That’s good writing.
“A Murder in Passing” has a very good plot filled with twists, turns and an excellent surprise. I very much enjoy Mr. de Castrique’s writing, both in this series and in his Barry Clayton series.
A MURDER IN PASSING (Lic Invest-Sam Blackman/Nakayla Robertson-North Carolina-Contemp) – G+
de Castrique, Mark – 4th in series
Poisoned Pen Press, 2013
September 22, 2013
Wonderful addition to the series!! I just hope Sam and Nakayla's relationship advances to the next level in the next book!!
August 8, 2021
As I've worked my way through the Sam Blackman series (it really ought to be the Blackman & and Robertson series, since Sam's partner Nakayla Robertson is as important as he is), I've hoped that Mark de Castrique would quit depending on famous historical figures to provide the fiber of his work, and start writing real characters dealing with real mysteries. He hasn't quite made it, in this court installment, but he's a lot closer.
Here we have an old woman who wants to know what happened to her lover, who disappeared in 1967, and to a picture that disappeared about the same time which showed several people on the grounds of the former Kingdom of the Happy Land, a commune established by former slaves after what we southerners sometimes euphemistically call the Late Unpleasantness. There's a skeleton in a log that may be the vanished man, and a family that's been passing for generations, and some shooting in the present.
I have to fault de Castrique for falling into the trap of so many who think they have to apologize for anything and everything southern. Instead of acknowledging the vast strides that have occurred since the 60s - strides without which the partnership (in any sense) of Blackman and Robertson couldn't exist, because he's white and she's black - he makes it sound like the night riders are still in control, and lynchings happen every day. The actual fact is that yes, there are bigots in the south, just as there are bigots in the north, but the average southerner today (or in 2013 when this book came out) is as tolerant an individual as you'll find anywhere. I lived and traveled in the south for nearly 20 years, and have known southerners outside the south, and only once have I actually witnessed genuine bigotry. Certainly prejudice exists, and it would be asinine to deny it. But de Castrique's writing as though it's the salient feature of southern culture is not only false and insulting, it's egregiously wrong.
Overall, however, this book is good - the best in the series so far. If the improvement continues, and if de Castrique can continue to move away from actual historical people and events to prop up his work, this could be a really good series.
Here we have an old woman who wants to know what happened to her lover, who disappeared in 1967, and to a picture that disappeared about the same time which showed several people on the grounds of the former Kingdom of the Happy Land, a commune established by former slaves after what we southerners sometimes euphemistically call the Late Unpleasantness. There's a skeleton in a log that may be the vanished man, and a family that's been passing for generations, and some shooting in the present.
I have to fault de Castrique for falling into the trap of so many who think they have to apologize for anything and everything southern. Instead of acknowledging the vast strides that have occurred since the 60s - strides without which the partnership (in any sense) of Blackman and Robertson couldn't exist, because he's white and she's black - he makes it sound like the night riders are still in control, and lynchings happen every day. The actual fact is that yes, there are bigots in the south, just as there are bigots in the north, but the average southerner today (or in 2013 when this book came out) is as tolerant an individual as you'll find anywhere. I lived and traveled in the south for nearly 20 years, and have known southerners outside the south, and only once have I actually witnessed genuine bigotry. Certainly prejudice exists, and it would be asinine to deny it. But de Castrique's writing as though it's the salient feature of southern culture is not only false and insulting, it's egregiously wrong.
Overall, however, this book is good - the best in the series so far. If the improvement continues, and if de Castrique can continue to move away from actual historical people and events to prop up his work, this could be a really good series.
May 13, 2017
I picked up this book since it was set in Asheville NC.
I really liked the backstory of the detective, Sam Blackman, a Wounded Warrior.
Since this is the third book in a series, there is reference to previous cases and characters who were involved in the earlier books. It's great for both a new reader and one who may not remember all the details of the previous books.
An added bonus was that the author refers to a lot of local restaurants that are located in Asheville.
The only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 was that I didn't love the narrator's voice and I thought the book wrapped too neatly.
I really liked the backstory of the detective, Sam Blackman, a Wounded Warrior.
Since this is the third book in a series, there is reference to previous cases and characters who were involved in the earlier books. It's great for both a new reader and one who may not remember all the details of the previous books.
An added bonus was that the author refers to a lot of local restaurants that are located in Asheville.
The only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 was that I didn't love the narrator's voice and I thought the book wrapped too neatly.
July 4, 2017
When Sam trips over a skeleton on a mushroom hunt, the story begins. He and Nakayla find out who killed the gentleman in the log. The story contains context of the era of miscegenation and people passing for white. It gives a vivid picture of the attitudes of the sixties and how much has changed yet still is the same.
The history of the Kingdom of the Happy land is something I never heard of. It is An interesting part of the story that is well tied into it. The characters remain interesting, Hewitt Donaldson who is being developed as a likable man on a run for justice.
This one is so much better than the Fitzgerald Ruse. Better storyline and more developed characters.
The history of the Kingdom of the Happy land is something I never heard of. It is An interesting part of the story that is well tied into it. The characters remain interesting, Hewitt Donaldson who is being developed as a likable man on a run for justice.
This one is so much better than the Fitzgerald Ruse. Better storyline and more developed characters.
August 16, 2024
I thoroughly enjoy the Sam Blackman series, this being the third one I've listened to. De Castrique tells a good story - the characters are genuine, and there are not so many that you lose track of their role in the story. Having spent a good bit of time in Western North Carolina, I am drawn to the locales as much as the plot. I look forward to the next Blackman & Robinson case and where it will take me.
January 13, 2020
As a North Carolina native and an avid mystery/thriller fan, this was a fun and entertaining read. As I haven't read any of Mark's other books, some of nuances of Nakayla and Sam's relationship were lost on me, but overall, the book was finely written and the story had just enough twists to be interesting but believable.
November 28, 2016
A Treasure
Every Sam Blackman mystery I have read has been a masterpiece. The reverence for veterans alone makes the books worthwhile. But the stories are wonderful, and the characters are exquisitely drawn. I can't wait to read the next one...
Every Sam Blackman mystery I have read has been a masterpiece. The reverence for veterans alone makes the books worthwhile. But the stories are wonderful, and the characters are exquisitely drawn. I can't wait to read the next one...
February 28, 2018
Another solid book by Mark de Castrique. If you love the Asheville, NC area, you should read this series. Do yourself a favor and start at the first book though. Would be hard to follow what's going on if you aren't invested in the characters.
March 16, 2019
Since i live in Western NC, Mark de Castrique's books are always interesting for learning about the history of the area and the current make up. Also you get an interesting mystery thrown in as well.
October 14, 2021
Nicely plotted and well written murder with a side of romance,. I remember the times this is dated and am glad it’s better - and not. Narrator is one of my favorites - and does his usual fine performance.
Read
June 1, 2019Categories
Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Sam Blackman Mystery
Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Sam Blackman Mystery
October 5, 2020
This was an enjoyable read, with appealing protagonists, taking place in a (fairly) local setting. I wasn't surprised at "whodunnit", but there were some unexpected twists in the story.
September 18, 2022
These stories are getting to all be the same! The dialogue is very unsophisticated.
April 9, 2023
Audiobook performed by William Dufris
February 13, 2024
I love how Sam manages to fall into a mystery and ends up solving it. He is a true hero in how he helps people.
May 10, 2024
Wonderful
I continue to be amazed at just how good a writer Mr de Castrique is. If possible, this one is even better than the earlier ones in the series.
I continue to be amazed at just how good a writer Mr de Castrique is. If possible, this one is even better than the earlier ones in the series.
December 12, 2024
Another interesting tale. Not groundbreaking, but I enjoy the characters and the regional location. I’m already listening to the next installment.
January 13, 2025
Very good book
June 4, 2025
Not happy with the flat female characters and the cavalier conversations but it was interesting to learn more about this period and repercussions of passing in the South.
June 14, 2013
First Line: "So, where are we going?"
It's a legitimate question. The Blackman and Robertson Detective Agency of Asheville, North Carolina has no clients, and the inactivity is driving Sam Blackman nuts. So crazy that he grudgingly agrees to join his business partner and lover Nakayla Robertson on a mushroom hunt on the historic site of The Kingdom of the Happy Land, a freed-slave commune. His search for fungi leads to the discovery of a body, but since The Kingdom of the Happy Land straddles the North Carolina - South Carolina border, the case isn't his and law enforcement tells him in no uncertain terms to keep his hands off.
When Marsha Montgomery comes to Blackman and Robertson wanting the firm's expertise in solving the theft of a rifle and photograph from her mother's house in 1967, Sam smells a set-up. The photo was taken by a renowned photographer in 1932 and shows Marsha's mother, grandmother and great-grandmother on the site of The Kingdom of the Happy Land. Soon thereafter Marsha's 85-year-old grandmother is charged with murder, and Sam has business for his detective agency.
In this fourth outing of Iraqi war veteran Sam Blackman and his partner Nakayla Robertson, Mark de Castrique has done another exemplary job in wrapping a bit of North Carolina history inside an intriguing mystery. The history in this case involves the end of the Civil War and a group of freed slaves looking for a new home. In South Carolina this group was told by other former slaves of a place where mountains stretched for mile after uninhabited mile, a place where freed slaves might be able to find a small piece of land for a home. The group traveled there, and The Kingdom of the Happy Land was born. This bittersweet taste of history blends nicely into a tale of secrets and murder.
The author's characters blend quite nicely into the tale as well. De Castrique's characters are always a strong point in any book he writes (along with a delicious sense of humor that rears its head from time to time). Having lost a leg in Iraq, Sam makes a point of visiting the local veterans' hospital to spend time with patients and to drop off needed items. In A Murder in Passing, he befriends a particularly troubled vet and becomes his mentor, laying the groundwork for a job and housing and getting the young man on the road to a happier life-- and into the mystery.
In reading this book, it's not that difficult to see who must be responsible all those years ago of murdering the man whose remains Blackman found. The problem lies in how it all was accomplished, and de Castrique deals with it in his usual skillful manner. Intriguing plot, characters that draw you right into the story and make you care about them, good pacing... all this combined with humor and subtlety. It probably has as much to do with my upbringing as it does de Castrique's subtlety, but I didn't realize the title of the book had more than one meaning until I'd almost finished it. I look forward to the day when all people can read the title of A Murder in Passing and not see its quiet subtext.
It's a legitimate question. The Blackman and Robertson Detective Agency of Asheville, North Carolina has no clients, and the inactivity is driving Sam Blackman nuts. So crazy that he grudgingly agrees to join his business partner and lover Nakayla Robertson on a mushroom hunt on the historic site of The Kingdom of the Happy Land, a freed-slave commune. His search for fungi leads to the discovery of a body, but since The Kingdom of the Happy Land straddles the North Carolina - South Carolina border, the case isn't his and law enforcement tells him in no uncertain terms to keep his hands off.
When Marsha Montgomery comes to Blackman and Robertson wanting the firm's expertise in solving the theft of a rifle and photograph from her mother's house in 1967, Sam smells a set-up. The photo was taken by a renowned photographer in 1932 and shows Marsha's mother, grandmother and great-grandmother on the site of The Kingdom of the Happy Land. Soon thereafter Marsha's 85-year-old grandmother is charged with murder, and Sam has business for his detective agency.
In this fourth outing of Iraqi war veteran Sam Blackman and his partner Nakayla Robertson, Mark de Castrique has done another exemplary job in wrapping a bit of North Carolina history inside an intriguing mystery. The history in this case involves the end of the Civil War and a group of freed slaves looking for a new home. In South Carolina this group was told by other former slaves of a place where mountains stretched for mile after uninhabited mile, a place where freed slaves might be able to find a small piece of land for a home. The group traveled there, and The Kingdom of the Happy Land was born. This bittersweet taste of history blends nicely into a tale of secrets and murder.
The author's characters blend quite nicely into the tale as well. De Castrique's characters are always a strong point in any book he writes (along with a delicious sense of humor that rears its head from time to time). Having lost a leg in Iraq, Sam makes a point of visiting the local veterans' hospital to spend time with patients and to drop off needed items. In A Murder in Passing, he befriends a particularly troubled vet and becomes his mentor, laying the groundwork for a job and housing and getting the young man on the road to a happier life-- and into the mystery.
In reading this book, it's not that difficult to see who must be responsible all those years ago of murdering the man whose remains Blackman found. The problem lies in how it all was accomplished, and de Castrique deals with it in his usual skillful manner. Intriguing plot, characters that draw you right into the story and make you care about them, good pacing... all this combined with humor and subtlety. It probably has as much to do with my upbringing as it does de Castrique's subtlety, but I didn't realize the title of the book had more than one meaning until I'd almost finished it. I look forward to the day when all people can read the title of A Murder in Passing and not see its quiet subtext.
August 26, 2013
A quick read, with a nice twist to the plot and a little history thrown in.
"In Asheville, North Carolina, the Blackman & Robertson Detective Agency faces a disturbing reality – no clients. Sam Blackman finds inactivity intolerable. So when partner Nakayla Robertson suggests a mushroom hunt on the site of an historic, freed-slave commune called The Kingdom of the Happy Land, Sam reluctantly agrees. When he stumbles across a skeleton, his adventure mushrooms into a case of murder. But it isn’t his case. He has no client, and the local authorities tell him to butt out. Then Marsha Montgomery comes to the office asking Sam and Nakayla to investigate a burglary at her mother’s home. Someone stole a rifle and a photograph of Marsha’s mother, grandmother, and great grandmother taken in 1932 by renowned photographer Doris Ulmann. The site of the photograph is The Kingdom of the Happy Land. The date of the burglary, 1967. Marsha’s visit is no coincidence. Sam’s being played. But why? When Marsha’s eighty-five-year-old mother Lucille is arrested for murder, Sam has his answer and his case. Is the skeleton that of Jimmy Lang, Marsha’s white father and her mother’s lover, who disappeared in 1967 right after interracial couples were allowed to marry in North Carolina? Jimmy’s brother says no. Jimmy left to seek his fortune after Lucille rejected his marriage proposal. But others stood to gain from his disappearance. A veil of betrayal and deceit hides a killer desperate to protect a dark secret, and no one, not even Sam, is safe from the deadly consequences of a murder in passing."
"In Asheville, North Carolina, the Blackman & Robertson Detective Agency faces a disturbing reality – no clients. Sam Blackman finds inactivity intolerable. So when partner Nakayla Robertson suggests a mushroom hunt on the site of an historic, freed-slave commune called The Kingdom of the Happy Land, Sam reluctantly agrees. When he stumbles across a skeleton, his adventure mushrooms into a case of murder. But it isn’t his case. He has no client, and the local authorities tell him to butt out. Then Marsha Montgomery comes to the office asking Sam and Nakayla to investigate a burglary at her mother’s home. Someone stole a rifle and a photograph of Marsha’s mother, grandmother, and great grandmother taken in 1932 by renowned photographer Doris Ulmann. The site of the photograph is The Kingdom of the Happy Land. The date of the burglary, 1967. Marsha’s visit is no coincidence. Sam’s being played. But why? When Marsha’s eighty-five-year-old mother Lucille is arrested for murder, Sam has his answer and his case. Is the skeleton that of Jimmy Lang, Marsha’s white father and her mother’s lover, who disappeared in 1967 right after interracial couples were allowed to marry in North Carolina? Jimmy’s brother says no. Jimmy left to seek his fortune after Lucille rejected his marriage proposal. But others stood to gain from his disappearance. A veil of betrayal and deceit hides a killer desperate to protect a dark secret, and no one, not even Sam, is safe from the deadly consequences of a murder in passing."
September 27, 2015
Oh, for a half star. Mark de Castrique's mysteries are fun to read because they are set in my own backyard. It is as tiny thrill to see your favorite restaurant or hangout pop up here and there as the tale unfolds. This is probably not much of a novelty for those who live in a place like NYC, but lil' old Hendersonville it is a gas. In this case the killing field is a wooded grove in The Kingdom of the Happy Land. A commune founded by freed slaves which straddles North and South Carolina, The Kingdom was largely abandoned by the early 20th century. While mushroom hunting in the Kingdom, Sam stumbles on the skeleton of a murdered man. Thus the mystery begins.
The author knows how to develop a tidy plot. His principal characters are well-wrought. His use of dialogue to develop plot and character is nicely handled. I like that he sticks to the main story. It seems so many current mysteries diverge into romantic subplots or other such nonsense. This is some times annoying. Sam Blackman and his partner Naklaya are romantically involved, but this never takes over the story.
So why not a four? I rarely give fives. There are some aspects if the book which I find heavy handed. De Castrique at times will wax platitudinous. Veterans and race are mostly likely to bring out the solemn bowed head tone. Then there is the mystery itself. DeCastrique's red herrings never really qualify. This seems to be a pretty common problem with his book. Usually there is only one plausible suspect. Others are thrown in rather half heartedly.
A Murder in Passing offers an intriguing set up. Add to this Mark's intelligence and wit, and you have a pleasant mystery outing.
The author knows how to develop a tidy plot. His principal characters are well-wrought. His use of dialogue to develop plot and character is nicely handled. I like that he sticks to the main story. It seems so many current mysteries diverge into romantic subplots or other such nonsense. This is some times annoying. Sam Blackman and his partner Naklaya are romantically involved, but this never takes over the story.
So why not a four? I rarely give fives. There are some aspects if the book which I find heavy handed. De Castrique at times will wax platitudinous. Veterans and race are mostly likely to bring out the solemn bowed head tone. Then there is the mystery itself. DeCastrique's red herrings never really qualify. This seems to be a pretty common problem with his book. Usually there is only one plausible suspect. Others are thrown in rather half heartedly.
A Murder in Passing offers an intriguing set up. Add to this Mark's intelligence and wit, and you have a pleasant mystery outing.
January 14, 2014
The Blackman-Robertson mysteries are rooted in South Carolina history. In previous novels, such landmarks as Carl Sandburg’s farm played a role. Other links included Thomas Wolfe and F. Scott Fitzgerald. In this book, it is a photo taken 80 years before by a famous woman photographer, Doris Ulmann, the subjects of which were three blacks, mother, daughter and five-year-old Marsha Montgomery, and some boys. Marsha retains Sam Blackman and Nakayla Robertson to find the photo which she claims was stolen from her mother’s home, along with a rifle, in 1932. That is the first plot twist of many that lie ahead, before the truth is revealed.
The mystery involves the identity of a skeleton which Sam inadvertently uncovers when he trips, crashing into a rotted log while hunting for mushrooms. Racial attitudes in the South play a prominent role in the novel. Sam is white, Nakayla is black. Not only are they partners in the detective agency bearing their names, but lovers as well. Marsha’s 85-year-old mother is black, but had a white lover, Jimmy Lang, who fathered Marsha. He also was in the supposedly valuable photo which disappeared in 1932. As did he, after his proposal of marriage was rejected for sound reasons based on local prejudices.
This is a well-told tale that moves along swiftly, keeping the reader intrigued as it introduces nuances and new facts wending its way toward a conclusion. Written with economy and a keen eye on the socio-economic society of the post-Civil War South, the author has an excellent grasp of his subject, and the novel is recommended.
The mystery involves the identity of a skeleton which Sam inadvertently uncovers when he trips, crashing into a rotted log while hunting for mushrooms. Racial attitudes in the South play a prominent role in the novel. Sam is white, Nakayla is black. Not only are they partners in the detective agency bearing their names, but lovers as well. Marsha’s 85-year-old mother is black, but had a white lover, Jimmy Lang, who fathered Marsha. He also was in the supposedly valuable photo which disappeared in 1932. As did he, after his proposal of marriage was rejected for sound reasons based on local prejudices.
This is a well-told tale that moves along swiftly, keeping the reader intrigued as it introduces nuances and new facts wending its way toward a conclusion. Written with economy and a keen eye on the socio-economic society of the post-Civil War South, the author has an excellent grasp of his subject, and the novel is recommended.
July 2, 2013
Full review here : http://www.fridaynirvana.com/fiction/...
Source : Netgalley/Publisher ARC
Rating : 3.8/5
This book is part of Mark de Castrique’s “Sam Blackman” series – this is the 4th book – but reads well as a standalone mystery. Although there are references to previous events they are fairly well-explained, so you actually don’t feel left-out. Sam Blackman, his partner Nakayla Robertson and lawyer Hewitt Donaldson are nicely-etched out characters and very likeable. Sam has a great sense of humor which comes through in his depiction of people and events, since the book is told in first person, from his point-of-view. Nakayla who is African-American is strong and sensible and also Sam’s lover.
I liked the way the mystery came together in pieces – there’s the skeleton, Marsha’s story, and the sub-text of racialism so prevalent in those times (1960s). There is the mystery to be sure, but what makes it believable are the characters and their motives. Castrique builds up a nice timeline of events and gives us a look-see into how things were then. His writing is rich with details and history. The plot and the motives are sound, and the author very skillfully binds all this together.
A very interesting mystery with ample twists and turns, this kept me reading. I’m recommending this book, and also putting the rest of the books in this series on my to-read list.
Source : Netgalley/Publisher ARC
Rating : 3.8/5
This book is part of Mark de Castrique’s “Sam Blackman” series – this is the 4th book – but reads well as a standalone mystery. Although there are references to previous events they are fairly well-explained, so you actually don’t feel left-out. Sam Blackman, his partner Nakayla Robertson and lawyer Hewitt Donaldson are nicely-etched out characters and very likeable. Sam has a great sense of humor which comes through in his depiction of people and events, since the book is told in first person, from his point-of-view. Nakayla who is African-American is strong and sensible and also Sam’s lover.
I liked the way the mystery came together in pieces – there’s the skeleton, Marsha’s story, and the sub-text of racialism so prevalent in those times (1960s). There is the mystery to be sure, but what makes it believable are the characters and their motives. Castrique builds up a nice timeline of events and gives us a look-see into how things were then. His writing is rich with details and history. The plot and the motives are sound, and the author very skillfully binds all this together.
A very interesting mystery with ample twists and turns, this kept me reading. I’m recommending this book, and also putting the rest of the books in this series on my to-read list.
November 2, 2013
#4 in the Sam Blackman series. Sam was a Chief Warrant Officer in Army CID until he lost a leg in Iraq. Now he is a private detective in Asheville, NC with his partner/love interest Nakayla Robertson (as developed in previous series entries). The tone of the series is set by his bantering with Nakayla and with Hewitt Donaldson, the brilliant, leftover hippie, defense lawyer, who has an adjoining office. The mid-thirties Sam also has a very respectful, on-going relationship with the residents of Golden Oaks Retirement Center - which has featured in the prior series entries. This time out, his less-than-forthcoming, prospective client reports a 45 year old burglary in her mother's home; the mother currently resides at Golden Oaks. An enjoyable mystery well short of noir but not quite a cozy.
Sam Blackman series - In Asheville, North Carolina, the Blackman & Robertson Detective Agency faces a disturbing reality – no clients. Sam Blackman finds inactivity intolerable. So when partner Nakayla Robertson suggests a mushroom hunt on the site of an historic, freed-slave commune called The Kingdom of the Happy Land, Sam reluctantly agrees. When he stumbles across a skeleton, his adventure mushrooms into a case of murder. But it isn’t his case. He has no client, and the local authorities tell him to butt out.
Sam Blackman series - In Asheville, North Carolina, the Blackman & Robertson Detective Agency faces a disturbing reality – no clients. Sam Blackman finds inactivity intolerable. So when partner Nakayla Robertson suggests a mushroom hunt on the site of an historic, freed-slave commune called The Kingdom of the Happy Land, Sam reluctantly agrees. When he stumbles across a skeleton, his adventure mushrooms into a case of murder. But it isn’t his case. He has no client, and the local authorities tell him to butt out.
July 12, 2014
History, race relations, and persistent attitude are all blended in this fine story. With sensitivity and care the author has developed a believable inter-race relationship story of love and sacrifice. As the title suggests, murder is also part of the mix.
With few clients in hand, Sam Blackman and Nakalya Robertson need some outlet for their energy. Connecting with an outdoor mushroom-searching band, Sam stumbles over a skeleton that appears to be quite old. The discovery sets in motion inquiries by several agencies and since Robertson and Blackman are at loose ends with almost no business, they join the search for answers on an ad hoc basis. Then a potential client shows up asking them to try to locate a photograph, apparently stolen several years earlier. Even though the picture was made by a well-known photographer, its value doesn’t seem to reach the level where hiring a detective is appropriate. What’s even more intriguing is that the subject of the missing photograph is a small group of children linked to the skeleton discovered by Blackman.
The story unwinds in a very logical and thoughtful manner. The writing is clean and the characters are interesting in their attitudes and development. Everything about this book is of the level we have come to expect from this publisher and its authors.
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