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Penelope Harris Mysteries #1
The Jade Tiger
NEW YORK, OCTOBER 1928. The Big Apple teems with the glitter of Bright Young Things, Prohibition, and scofflaws-the perfect place for Penelope Harris to start her life over. As a former opera singer turned Shanghai nightclub owner, she's seen and done a lot, maybe too much. With any luck, she'll leave more than The Jade Tiger casino behind her-a murdered husband, a blackmailing torch singer, and Thom Lund, the ex-cop who stole her heart. But Penelope has never had that kind of luck; her past is already waiting for her in New York.
When someone murders her chiseling blackmailer at an out-of-control party and Thom is accused of the crime, Penelope must face down her darkest memories to prove his innocence. Is the murderer her cousin Charles, suckered into a hasty marriage by Penelope's blackmailer? Or is it Penelope's over-protective mother, who can't remember a thing after a blow to the head? Or was it Thom after all, ready to commit murder to save Penelope from the blackmailer's wicked plans?
Among the opulent mansions of the obscenely wealthy and the grit of a Hell's Kitchen speakeasy, Penelope and Thom must navigate double-crosses, bad liquor, bootleggers, and dark, obsessive love to find the murderer before the past reaches out to put a noose around both their necks
When someone murders her chiseling blackmailer at an out-of-control party and Thom is accused of the crime, Penelope must face down her darkest memories to prove his innocence. Is the murderer her cousin Charles, suckered into a hasty marriage by Penelope's blackmailer? Or is it Penelope's over-protective mother, who can't remember a thing after a blow to the head? Or was it Thom after all, ready to commit murder to save Penelope from the blackmailer's wicked plans?
Among the opulent mansions of the obscenely wealthy and the grit of a Hell's Kitchen speakeasy, Penelope and Thom must navigate double-crosses, bad liquor, bootleggers, and dark, obsessive love to find the murderer before the past reaches out to put a noose around both their necks
276 pages, Paperback
First published August 14, 2020
8 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
E.W. Cooper
3 books37 followersE.W. Cooper is the author of the Penelope Harris historical mystery series - The Jade Tiger (2020) and Murder at the Met (2021) - and is the 2020 Booklife Prize Finalist for Mystery/Thriller. A lifelong fan of classic mysteries and Grand Opera, Ms. Cooper is hard at work on the third book in the series. She lives quietly with her partner, children, three dogs, and one cat in a very noisy house in South Texas.
To read more about the author and the other short stories and novels featuring Penelope Harris, visit her website at ewcooper.com and snoop around.
To read more about the author and the other short stories and novels featuring Penelope Harris, visit her website at ewcooper.com and snoop around.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
October 8, 2020
This was a very fine, entertaining mystery thriller set in 1928 in the USA. It is definitely a fast paced pageturner and I really enjoyed reading this. It had glamour, mystery, love and murder with a great set of wonderful characters.
I particularly liked the main character Penelope. Although her character development was rather slow in the beginning, she got interesting as the story progressed. During the first pages, I thought she was whiny, shallow and somewhat... boring. But by the end of the book, I noticed that there is so much more in her than what she has shown in the beginning. Please keep in mind that this story is set in 1928 so it's maybe natural that she was not really showing her true nature right in the beginning. I would definitely love to read more about her!
I also really liked James a lot even though he didn't get many pages.
Unfortunately, the dialogues and discussions between the policemen seem to be too long and explanatory at some parts. Whenever they appeared on the pages to discuss internally, I started to skim the pages.
**I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens for leaving an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.**
I particularly liked the main character Penelope. Although her character development was rather slow in the beginning, she got interesting as the story progressed. During the first pages, I thought she was whiny, shallow and somewhat... boring. But by the end of the book, I noticed that there is so much more in her than what she has shown in the beginning. Please keep in mind that this story is set in 1928 so it's maybe natural that she was not really showing her true nature right in the beginning. I would definitely love to read more about her!
I also really liked James a lot even though he didn't get many pages.
Unfortunately, the dialogues and discussions between the policemen seem to be too long and explanatory at some parts. Whenever they appeared on the pages to discuss internally, I started to skim the pages.
**I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens for leaving an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.**
December 2, 2020
The Jade Tiger by E.W. Cooper is a well written "who done it" murder mystery set in the 1920s. In depression-era NYC, this story unfolds around a nightclub, The Jade Tiger. The prose describe the scenes, history and culture perfectly, and with great detail, evidencing that the writer did their research. This story is written with clarity and accuracy. The mystery is interesting and well done which adequately draws the reader in and keeps their interest until the end.
Thank you, NetGalley and Ink Dog Press, for a copy of this book for review.
Thank you, NetGalley and Ink Dog Press, for a copy of this book for review.
June 3, 2021
If you love Agatha Christie you are going to love this novel. It's a really fantastic who done it. The story is set in 1928 and you get a really feel for time and place. Coopers descriptions are so detailed you feel like you are there in the room. The main chatacter Penelope is a strong woman with a back story that slowly unfolds through out the novel.
There were a lot of characters in the first few chapters and it took a lot of attention to keep them straight. At some point everything settled into place.
If you love cosy mysteries this novel is for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
There were a lot of characters in the first few chapters and it took a lot of attention to keep them straight. At some point everything settled into place.
If you love cosy mysteries this novel is for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
September 30, 2020
The Jade Tiger by E. W. Cooper is a well-crafted Murder Mystery that will make you want to spend the night curled up on the couch with a gimlet and fur. This quick-dealing, fast-talking, character-driven mystery had the feel of a 1940s noir film and the skill of a talented writer who successfully guided readers on an entertaining journey to the past. In this short novel, you will read great descriptions and dynamic dialogue that displays her effort in building a world of flawed characters you'll love to hate. Dark corners and secrets abound in the upper crest of Depression-era New York. Here, we meet Penelope and her moxie crew of family members, former employees, city police, and enemies. The author does a great job of putting readers in the scene at every turn of the page. There’s been extensive research and it shows. From clothing, ambiance, and conversation, you get the sense that you are reading a mystery written a century ago.
The pace of the novel, though uneven at times, had edge-of-your-seat-scenes that truly popped. Some moments grab your attention, such as a sensual party scene involving a rendition of the Puccini opera Carmen, or the nail-biting police investigation. But those moments were hyphenated by over-indulgent dialogue that could have been better served as narrative observations. Though a short novel, I found it read like a stage play. I would have appreciated less reliance on dialogue to tell the story and more use of the omniscient narrator whose observations were amusing to read. What was lacking in flow was more than made up for in style. Cooper dazzles as a writer and would be best suited to use her narrative skills in a longer piece that can give her room to breathe more life into a story that flows as well as the silk and chiffon of the dizzy party-goers.
Cooper does a superb job in developing her primary characters by offering significant character insights when describing their facial expressions and body language. As a reader, I found myself confused with dialogue involving minor characters due in part to an excessive amount of charters unloaded within the first 30 pages. It was hard to keep track of who was who and why they were there at all. I understand that it is a murder mystery, therefore distraction is key, but I would have been happy with fewer minor characters with speaking roles, as this added to a confusing chorus of names to try and recall later in the novel. Also, the author may find with her next novel, and I hope there will be many more, she will not have to spend as much time leaving main characters to explain why minor characters unexpectedly vanished.
The best audience for this murder mystery are fans of pulp fiction and hard case crime pocket novels. This story should also find its way into the hands of readers who enjoy the quick-talking, shadowy, lingeringly seductive mystery films of the 1940s. Readers who enjoy the feel of a smoky room and silk gown whilst relishing in the dirty glitz and glam of blackmail and murder will be thrilled to turn the pages of The Jade Tiger.
The pace of the novel, though uneven at times, had edge-of-your-seat-scenes that truly popped. Some moments grab your attention, such as a sensual party scene involving a rendition of the Puccini opera Carmen, or the nail-biting police investigation. But those moments were hyphenated by over-indulgent dialogue that could have been better served as narrative observations. Though a short novel, I found it read like a stage play. I would have appreciated less reliance on dialogue to tell the story and more use of the omniscient narrator whose observations were amusing to read. What was lacking in flow was more than made up for in style. Cooper dazzles as a writer and would be best suited to use her narrative skills in a longer piece that can give her room to breathe more life into a story that flows as well as the silk and chiffon of the dizzy party-goers.
Cooper does a superb job in developing her primary characters by offering significant character insights when describing their facial expressions and body language. As a reader, I found myself confused with dialogue involving minor characters due in part to an excessive amount of charters unloaded within the first 30 pages. It was hard to keep track of who was who and why they were there at all. I understand that it is a murder mystery, therefore distraction is key, but I would have been happy with fewer minor characters with speaking roles, as this added to a confusing chorus of names to try and recall later in the novel. Also, the author may find with her next novel, and I hope there will be many more, she will not have to spend as much time leaving main characters to explain why minor characters unexpectedly vanished.
The best audience for this murder mystery are fans of pulp fiction and hard case crime pocket novels. This story should also find its way into the hands of readers who enjoy the quick-talking, shadowy, lingeringly seductive mystery films of the 1940s. Readers who enjoy the feel of a smoky room and silk gown whilst relishing in the dirty glitz and glam of blackmail and murder will be thrilled to turn the pages of The Jade Tiger.
December 14, 2020
“The Jade Tiger” transports the reader to the 1920s, when opera singers and adept piano players graced high-end social events.
Read full review in the 2020 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2020 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 3, 2020
An interesting look into the Roaring Twenties generation, prohibition, murder, police procedure of that period, and revenge.
The number of characters will keep you well occupied, and perhaps a bit confused. The author sure has a way with words and relies heavily on elaborate adjectives/descriptives and although proper for the time period, was a bit hard for me to deal with at times.
I must admit that it took me some little bit of reading to get fully invested in this book, but once in it, I had to keep reading to see where it led.
*ARC supplied by the publisher and author.
The number of characters will keep you well occupied, and perhaps a bit confused. The author sure has a way with words and relies heavily on elaborate adjectives/descriptives and although proper for the time period, was a bit hard for me to deal with at times.
I must admit that it took me some little bit of reading to get fully invested in this book, but once in it, I had to keep reading to see where it led.
*ARC supplied by the publisher and author.
October 26, 2020
Seriously disappointed. Way too much background, way too much talking - potentially interesting people who never became interesting. Little drops of personality that were never developed - and the whole books wraps up and the ultimate solutions revealed in two long conversations. Yawn.
I started with great expectations - got into it and put it down. Went back and literally started again a while later - and while I waded through, it was mostly to see if anything was going to happen to spark my interest. Nope.
The author has some nice ideas - some potentially interesting characters - but nothing came together. If I were the editor, I would take out all the conversations of more than three sentences and see what was left. Then encourage the author to start again. I suspect there is a novel in there that could be really engrossing - but this isn't it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I started with great expectations - got into it and put it down. Went back and literally started again a while later - and while I waded through, it was mostly to see if anything was going to happen to spark my interest. Nope.
The author has some nice ideas - some potentially interesting characters - but nothing came together. If I were the editor, I would take out all the conversations of more than three sentences and see what was left. Then encourage the author to start again. I suspect there is a novel in there that could be really engrossing - but this isn't it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 12, 2020
Penelope, a recent widow, has returned to New York with her family after suffering some traumatic events in Shanghai. She owned a night club there where she used to sing.
It's 1928 and she's attending her cousin's evening party. Guests include several society members, bootleggers, blackmailers, people from her past...so things get heated during the course of the night. It ends with the murder of one of the guests.
Who's the killer?
The story started off slowly. It picked up once the dead body was discovered and the investigation began. Penelope investigates with her family and love interest (a former cop) to help out.
There were alot of characters but i didn't have too many issues keeping track of them.
The mystery element of the story was good. Lots of suspects.
Some of the negatives included alot of repetition with the constant mentioning of "the jade tiger" which is not only the book title but also the club Penelope owned in Shanghai. I didn't connect with the characters nor did I become interested in their stories. And i kept thinking that the crash of '29 would soon be upon them. (with all the talk of riches & finance)
I did appreciate the author's note at the end which gave some perspective on the historical elements of the story.
Overall, while I liked the mystery part of the story, I thought the characters were humdrum and i got bored halfway thru so this wasn't for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of the ARC for an honest review.
It's 1928 and she's attending her cousin's evening party. Guests include several society members, bootleggers, blackmailers, people from her past...so things get heated during the course of the night. It ends with the murder of one of the guests.
Who's the killer?
The story started off slowly. It picked up once the dead body was discovered and the investigation began. Penelope investigates with her family and love interest (a former cop) to help out.
There were alot of characters but i didn't have too many issues keeping track of them.
The mystery element of the story was good. Lots of suspects.
Some of the negatives included alot of repetition with the constant mentioning of "the jade tiger" which is not only the book title but also the club Penelope owned in Shanghai. I didn't connect with the characters nor did I become interested in their stories. And i kept thinking that the crash of '29 would soon be upon them. (with all the talk of riches & finance)
I did appreciate the author's note at the end which gave some perspective on the historical elements of the story.
Overall, while I liked the mystery part of the story, I thought the characters were humdrum and i got bored halfway thru so this wasn't for me.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of the ARC for an honest review.
September 29, 2020
This historical mystery-suspense begins in New York City in 1928 where we meet Penelope Harris, her siblings and mother, all of whom recently relocated there after living many years in Shanghai. At that time, Shanghai was known as the Pearl of the Orient, a cosmopolitan city that attracted sophisticates from all over the world as well as refugees, among them White Russians and European Jews fleeing the Nazis. Penelope owned and operated a cabaret called The Jade Tiger in Shanghai. Then her rogue husband was murdered, Penelope was severely injured, her father died, and she and her family were left in deep financial distress. Penelope sets aside her love affair with a Danish cop named Thom Lund as well as her aspirations to be an opera singer, and she attempts to start a new life in the Big Apple.
The action unfolds slowly at first, ramps up gradually then becomes quite suspenseful as it becomes apparent that the legacy of The Jade Tiger has made Penelope a target. Her love interest, Lund, has followed her to New York where he becomes a suspect in the murder of Penelope’s chief rival, a former Jade Tiger chanteuse turned blackmailer. All the while, the author manages to very subtly leave us with clues and hints that keep us guessing about The Jade Tiger mystery. In addition to the strength of the plot, we are treated to a rich description of life among the high society New Yorkers of the time, including their clothing, their behaviors and even their speech.
The combination of great setting, well-drawn characters, and the subtle, unfolding mystery makes this an excellent read. Recommended! I received an ARC, and this is my independent review.
The action unfolds slowly at first, ramps up gradually then becomes quite suspenseful as it becomes apparent that the legacy of The Jade Tiger has made Penelope a target. Her love interest, Lund, has followed her to New York where he becomes a suspect in the murder of Penelope’s chief rival, a former Jade Tiger chanteuse turned blackmailer. All the while, the author manages to very subtly leave us with clues and hints that keep us guessing about The Jade Tiger mystery. In addition to the strength of the plot, we are treated to a rich description of life among the high society New Yorkers of the time, including their clothing, their behaviors and even their speech.
The combination of great setting, well-drawn characters, and the subtle, unfolding mystery makes this an excellent read. Recommended! I received an ARC, and this is my independent review.
December 30, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley for a free copy for reviewing post-release.
Unfortunately, this was not for me. I stopped at a quarter of the way in; despite being a short book, I was simply too bored to waste my time.
The name of this had me hoping for some more asian influence in the plot and character roster, but alas, we were met immediately with what were merely a bunch of white ex-pats who had returned to New York. The text literally mentions "back in China" once for about four successive paragraphs. I was not impressed.
I found the dialogue disingenuous, laid out in a way clearly geared towards setting the scene and filling in background information, rather than in a manner befitting organic conversation.
I'll admit that this tactic, though, did succeed in rapidly setting the scene for an original novel of near-novellan length wherein we don't know the characters yet. It seems to intend to set up a series, but I can't say I cared for any characters enough to want to follow them through another mediocre adventure.
For all its faults that I spotted, it was otherwise a simple read for a car ride or a day at the beach, sans high expectations?
Unfortunately, this was not for me. I stopped at a quarter of the way in; despite being a short book, I was simply too bored to waste my time.
The name of this had me hoping for some more asian influence in the plot and character roster, but alas, we were met immediately with what were merely a bunch of white ex-pats who had returned to New York. The text literally mentions "back in China" once for about four successive paragraphs. I was not impressed.
I found the dialogue disingenuous, laid out in a way clearly geared towards setting the scene and filling in background information, rather than in a manner befitting organic conversation.
I'll admit that this tactic, though, did succeed in rapidly setting the scene for an original novel of near-novellan length wherein we don't know the characters yet. It seems to intend to set up a series, but I can't say I cared for any characters enough to want to follow them through another mediocre adventure.
For all its faults that I spotted, it was otherwise a simple read for a car ride or a day at the beach, sans high expectations?
November 15, 2020
Love the cover. Love the book.
An historical fiction mystery that held my attention the whole time.
The Jade Tiger is a casino in Shanghai formerly owned by Penelope Harris and her late husband. We learn much about this establishment, but all of the action there was in the past. Now Penelope is in New York trying to find peace in her life.
I read that the author loves mysteries and writes listening to opera. No wonder she made Penelope a wannabe opera singer.
A very laudable who dunnit by a first time author.
5 stars
An historical fiction mystery that held my attention the whole time.
The Jade Tiger is a casino in Shanghai formerly owned by Penelope Harris and her late husband. We learn much about this establishment, but all of the action there was in the past. Now Penelope is in New York trying to find peace in her life.
I read that the author loves mysteries and writes listening to opera. No wonder she made Penelope a wannabe opera singer.
A very laudable who dunnit by a first time author.
5 stars
October 12, 2020
Penelope Harris narrowly escapes with her own life. She once owned a speakeasy/casino in Shanghai with her now deceased husband, but has returned to her Mother and Brother in New York, for a much needed fresh start. However, her past follows her, lurking in the shadows, waiting to pounce on her! What or who will save her this time? Can she save herself?
"The Jade Tiger" reminds me of Agatha Christie novels, even in size. A very compact yet thrilling read. So I think this novel will appeal to all Christie and classic mystery fans.
For me, the draw is how atmospheric it is... the roaring 20's, all glitz and glam, bedroom eyed singers, breaking prohibition laws, sheer stockings, and bold lipsticks. Reading the grittiness it took to survive in such a climate kept me turning the pages. There are many characters that play a part in this mystery and all the pieces eventually fit together. It is well written.
I don’t have any criticism of it to share.
A perfect read for a cozy evening.
An arc e-copy was given to me via BookSirens by Ink Dog Press in exchange for a honest review. Thank you!
"The Jade Tiger" reminds me of Agatha Christie novels, even in size. A very compact yet thrilling read. So I think this novel will appeal to all Christie and classic mystery fans.
For me, the draw is how atmospheric it is... the roaring 20's, all glitz and glam, bedroom eyed singers, breaking prohibition laws, sheer stockings, and bold lipsticks. Reading the grittiness it took to survive in such a climate kept me turning the pages. There are many characters that play a part in this mystery and all the pieces eventually fit together. It is well written.
I don’t have any criticism of it to share.
A perfect read for a cozy evening.
An arc e-copy was given to me via BookSirens by Ink Dog Press in exchange for a honest review. Thank you!
March 30, 2021
4 stars
Greed, revenge, & scandal all collide against the backdrop of jazz age NYC, with many of the story’s players running from sordid expat lives in Shanghai. This murder mystery was fun, despite having its share of tragedy & despair bubbling close to the surface. It packs quite a punch for 200 pages.
[What I liked:]
•There are some great scenes, with such heightened drama that never becomes melodramatic (like the opera scene, & the warehouse scene). The prose is simple where it needs to be, but has flourishes of humor & vivid descriptions along the way.
•Thom is a great MC. I felt for him, then wondered about him, but was always intrigued by him. James & Charles & Gott & Penny’s mum were also great side characters, keeping things spicy & funny.
•Wow, the story packed so much emotion & doubt & suspense & deep dark secrets into one book—but fortunately I never felt derailed or lost by the plot. Things all fit together.
[What I didn’t like as much:]
•Something about the police detectives’ role felt awkward. Halfway through they suddenly show up, nearly becoming MC’s themselves, with lots of backstory & drama & narration from their POVs’. I think it would have felt more balanced if they either showed up sooner, or weren’t quite so prominent in the later parts.
•Renee’s character felt a bit flat. I get it, she’s evil, but that’s all we really see of her. Pretty one dimensional.
CW: murder, domestic violence, police brutality
[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]
Greed, revenge, & scandal all collide against the backdrop of jazz age NYC, with many of the story’s players running from sordid expat lives in Shanghai. This murder mystery was fun, despite having its share of tragedy & despair bubbling close to the surface. It packs quite a punch for 200 pages.
[What I liked:]
•There are some great scenes, with such heightened drama that never becomes melodramatic (like the opera scene, & the warehouse scene). The prose is simple where it needs to be, but has flourishes of humor & vivid descriptions along the way.
•Thom is a great MC. I felt for him, then wondered about him, but was always intrigued by him. James & Charles & Gott & Penny’s mum were also great side characters, keeping things spicy & funny.
•Wow, the story packed so much emotion & doubt & suspense & deep dark secrets into one book—but fortunately I never felt derailed or lost by the plot. Things all fit together.
[What I didn’t like as much:]
•Something about the police detectives’ role felt awkward. Halfway through they suddenly show up, nearly becoming MC’s themselves, with lots of backstory & drama & narration from their POVs’. I think it would have felt more balanced if they either showed up sooner, or weren’t quite so prominent in the later parts.
•Renee’s character felt a bit flat. I get it, she’s evil, but that’s all we really see of her. Pretty one dimensional.
CW: murder, domestic violence, police brutality
[I received an ARC ebook copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. Thank you for the book!]
October 4, 2020
A well written mystery set in Shanghai and the U.S., that kept me guessing who-dun-it! The era 1920's, a time of Prohibition, and much corruption, Penelope Harris lives a glamourous yet danger filled life. And, she can sing anything from opera to jazz, creating a rivalry with singer Renee Strong. Throw in a mess of manly men and you have problems galore. I so enjoyed the characters in this book and the story line just kept moving along, very multi-facet. Can't wait to read the next book coming in this series. Well done E.W. Cooper! Thank you Siren Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 27, 2020
I shall never regret reading this book. I could not stop turning the pages, yet I wished that it would never finish!! The surprises and suspense never ceased in this novel. The characters were challenging yet easy to relate to. A book worth reading. Wish to read more by this author.
September 23, 2020
I love any book or story related to China especially during the early 20th century prior to WW2. This story had it all-love, romance, murder, intrigue and a lot of nasty back stabbing to keep me happy. Did love indeed conquer all? Read the book to find out and in the meantime I'm going to look for more books written about the Tiger.
I received this book for free, all I had to do was read it and write a review.
I received this book for free, all I had to do was read it and write a review.
September 22, 2020
This is a good historical mystery. It is clear the author has done her homework regarding high society of the era. I particularly enjoyed the flashbacks to Shanghai.
The MC, Penelope, was easy to relate to as was her love interest, Lund. The other characters worked as well.
The plot of the mystery was predictable. The villians were clearly drawn and it didn't take much effort to figure out who the culprit was.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book from. Booksirens. I am leaving my honest review.
The MC, Penelope, was easy to relate to as was her love interest, Lund. The other characters worked as well.
The plot of the mystery was predictable. The villians were clearly drawn and it didn't take much effort to figure out who the culprit was.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book from. Booksirens. I am leaving my honest review.
October 18, 2020
The cover drew me in and then the summary had me super curious to read this. Yes, the cover is simple, but there is something about it that I can't stop looking at it.
It is 1928 and Penelope is looking to start her life over and leave the past where it belongs. Penelope was a former singer turned nightclub owner in Shanghai, but when her husband is murdered she decides to go back to New York. However, the past never stays buried. She is soon approached by a blackmailer and things get worse when that blackmailer is killed at a party and a man who owns her heart is accused.
Poor Penelope. She cannot get the peaceful life she wants and deserves! Poor thing. And poor Thom.
Yes, I liked Penelope and Thom right off the bat. I just want them to be together and happy!
The mystery was certainly a mystery. I had no idea who or why! Yessss, there are a lot of people who would have an excellent motive for murdering that person. I felt bad for the cops...because there are a lot of suspects and lots of bad blood and secrets running around. I don't envy them this mystery.
Now, there are a lot of dialogues that did seem to drag a tiny bit, but I do feel it was important conversations to the characters and even for the reader. Lots of clues, red herrings, and so forth. It fit and even though I was anxious to move forward it was important to read through.
The revelation was a surprise and I applaud the author for the twists and turns! That was one heck of a end. I enjoyed it immensely! It really made me curious about if there will be a book 2.
Overall, I did really like this. It was short, but good. A very good mystery for a cold fall day. I'll give this 4 stars.
It is 1928 and Penelope is looking to start her life over and leave the past where it belongs. Penelope was a former singer turned nightclub owner in Shanghai, but when her husband is murdered she decides to go back to New York. However, the past never stays buried. She is soon approached by a blackmailer and things get worse when that blackmailer is killed at a party and a man who owns her heart is accused.
Poor Penelope. She cannot get the peaceful life she wants and deserves! Poor thing. And poor Thom.
Yes, I liked Penelope and Thom right off the bat. I just want them to be together and happy!
The mystery was certainly a mystery. I had no idea who or why! Yessss, there are a lot of people who would have an excellent motive for murdering that person. I felt bad for the cops...because there are a lot of suspects and lots of bad blood and secrets running around. I don't envy them this mystery.
Now, there are a lot of dialogues that did seem to drag a tiny bit, but I do feel it was important conversations to the characters and even for the reader. Lots of clues, red herrings, and so forth. It fit and even though I was anxious to move forward it was important to read through.
The revelation was a surprise and I applaud the author for the twists and turns! That was one heck of a end. I enjoyed it immensely! It really made me curious about if there will be a book 2.
Overall, I did really like this. It was short, but good. A very good mystery for a cold fall day. I'll give this 4 stars.
November 23, 2020
r/suggestmeabook: I want a Prohibition era mystery with a woman who’s trying to escape her past.
Reading the blurb, I thought the book would be more of a historical fiction, but if I’d paid attention to the cover, I’d have realized it was more of a mystery with a historical setting. The period was nicely evoked, though, with judiciously chosen details about New York City just as prohibition started, much about the alcohol itself, but also of the clothes, attitudes, and decor.
This was one of those books that was almost really good, but missed on a few fronts. First, the main characters, Penelope and Lund, were not as fully developed as I would have preferred. I was mostly supposed to empathize with them for extrinsic factors, such as Penelope’s attempts to avoid the press because they kept exposing her to public scrutiny, rather than really developing the characters.
The second problem I had with the story was the unnecessary switches of points of view. As I’ve said before, multiple points of view are tricky. For example, there was really little reason to include the point of view of the police officer McCain. I can only think of one scene in retrospect that couldn’t have been shown from one of the other protagonists, an argument between McCain and his supervisor about the course of the investigation, but that didn’t add enough to the book to justify the jarring nature of that additional POV.
The mystery itself was more of a justification to expose the “Big Secret” that Penelope is trying to conceal than a traditional murder mystery. The “Big Secret,” when completely disclosed, is a bit anticlimactic because of the multiple retellings, diminishing the impact as each additional detail is exposed.
Last, too much of the characterization deals with things told rather than shown. Most characters are described by summarized stories of their past, rather than seeing them act in the present.
However, the plotting is good, and the writing evokes the period well, so I would expect to see books I’d like better from E.W. Cooper in the future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reading the blurb, I thought the book would be more of a historical fiction, but if I’d paid attention to the cover, I’d have realized it was more of a mystery with a historical setting. The period was nicely evoked, though, with judiciously chosen details about New York City just as prohibition started, much about the alcohol itself, but also of the clothes, attitudes, and decor.
This was one of those books that was almost really good, but missed on a few fronts. First, the main characters, Penelope and Lund, were not as fully developed as I would have preferred. I was mostly supposed to empathize with them for extrinsic factors, such as Penelope’s attempts to avoid the press because they kept exposing her to public scrutiny, rather than really developing the characters.
The second problem I had with the story was the unnecessary switches of points of view. As I’ve said before, multiple points of view are tricky. For example, there was really little reason to include the point of view of the police officer McCain. I can only think of one scene in retrospect that couldn’t have been shown from one of the other protagonists, an argument between McCain and his supervisor about the course of the investigation, but that didn’t add enough to the book to justify the jarring nature of that additional POV.
The mystery itself was more of a justification to expose the “Big Secret” that Penelope is trying to conceal than a traditional murder mystery. The “Big Secret,” when completely disclosed, is a bit anticlimactic because of the multiple retellings, diminishing the impact as each additional detail is exposed.
Last, too much of the characterization deals with things told rather than shown. Most characters are described by summarized stories of their past, rather than seeing them act in the present.
However, the plotting is good, and the writing evokes the period well, so I would expect to see books I’d like better from E.W. Cooper in the future.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 22, 2021
The Jade Tiger by E.W. Cooper is the first book in her new series starring Penelope Harris, opera singer turned voice instructor as its unlikely and reluctant detective. It is the fall of 1928 when we meet her on the first page. She is starting a new life in New York site, fleeing from a turbulent past in Singapore.
But the past, and its secrets, haunt her. Within the day her nemesis confronts her, her cousin begs her support, and she encounters her lost love. The novel keeps up the pace with twists and turns, fraught confrontations, and revelations about the past trickled out to heighten the tension. The good guys are nuanced, and the bad guys have their reasons, which gives the story depth. She sets her novel in both New York during the roaring twenties, with its speakeasies and high life, and Singapore where Western men thought they could play with no one at home finding out.
My biggest caveat with the book is its emotional angst. I don’t read mysteries to reflect on moral dilemmas. Perhaps I should, but there it is. Second, I got distracted once or twice by what seemed like rabbit holes.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. Its strengths are its fascinating variety of characters, fast-paced plot and exotic settings. Both New York and Singapore in the roaring twenties come alive under Cooper’s pen. I recommend this novel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But the past, and its secrets, haunt her. Within the day her nemesis confronts her, her cousin begs her support, and she encounters her lost love. The novel keeps up the pace with twists and turns, fraught confrontations, and revelations about the past trickled out to heighten the tension. The good guys are nuanced, and the bad guys have their reasons, which gives the story depth. She sets her novel in both New York during the roaring twenties, with its speakeasies and high life, and Singapore where Western men thought they could play with no one at home finding out.
My biggest caveat with the book is its emotional angst. I don’t read mysteries to reflect on moral dilemmas. Perhaps I should, but there it is. Second, I got distracted once or twice by what seemed like rabbit holes.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. Its strengths are its fascinating variety of characters, fast-paced plot and exotic settings. Both New York and Singapore in the roaring twenties come alive under Cooper’s pen. I recommend this novel.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2020
Historical mysteries are a special kind of reading escape.
Not only do we get to solve the mystery puzzle, we're transported to another time and place where the clothes, food, and smells bring the past to life. This year, since we're barely leaving the neighborhood, historical fiction seems especially appealing.
The Jade Tiger is the first book in a new series set in New York City, 1928. The clothing, opulent surroundings, and wide cast of characters reminded me of the Downton Abbey movie if it were set in NYC, mixed with the surroundings of Mrs. Maisel if that series happened 30 years earlier.
Penelope Harris, a former nightclub/casino owner in Shanghai moves to New York to escape her colorful past and give her family a new start. It isn't long before murder, blackmail, dirty cops, and bootlegging criminals conspire to ruin her plans.
At first glance, Penelope is a shallow diva, mourning her lost life in Shanghai along with her family's fortune at the hands of unnamed scoundrels. The more we see beneath the surface, the more likeable she becomes as a main character. Her role in the dark past is kept unknown until the last suspenseful scenes when we see her willingness to fight for her loved ones, whatever the personal cost.
I thought I knew whodunit, but the ending surprised me.
My favorite parts were the lavish descriptions of clothing, architecture, and the gritty streets of the Prohibition period. Cooper's writing style has a lyrical, poetic quality like a song, which makes sense because Penelope is an opera singer turned voice teacher. In fact, the musical performance scenes inspired me to listen to recordings of the actual songs in the book.
Not only do we get to solve the mystery puzzle, we're transported to another time and place where the clothes, food, and smells bring the past to life. This year, since we're barely leaving the neighborhood, historical fiction seems especially appealing.
The Jade Tiger is the first book in a new series set in New York City, 1928. The clothing, opulent surroundings, and wide cast of characters reminded me of the Downton Abbey movie if it were set in NYC, mixed with the surroundings of Mrs. Maisel if that series happened 30 years earlier.
Penelope Harris, a former nightclub/casino owner in Shanghai moves to New York to escape her colorful past and give her family a new start. It isn't long before murder, blackmail, dirty cops, and bootlegging criminals conspire to ruin her plans.
At first glance, Penelope is a shallow diva, mourning her lost life in Shanghai along with her family's fortune at the hands of unnamed scoundrels. The more we see beneath the surface, the more likeable she becomes as a main character. Her role in the dark past is kept unknown until the last suspenseful scenes when we see her willingness to fight for her loved ones, whatever the personal cost.
I thought I knew whodunit, but the ending surprised me.
My favorite parts were the lavish descriptions of clothing, architecture, and the gritty streets of the Prohibition period. Cooper's writing style has a lyrical, poetic quality like a song, which makes sense because Penelope is an opera singer turned voice teacher. In fact, the musical performance scenes inspired me to listen to recordings of the actual songs in the book.
June 16, 2021
I genuinely felt deceived by the premise of the book. I thought it is going to be something like Crazy Rich Asian but with mystery. The mystery is there no doubt but Shanghai is simply a place, with no culture appreciation written in the book-character who is a Chinese at the very least. But no, author ought to have them all Westerners who just happened to own a business in Shanghai. It's a pity really, author should have taken the advantage of reimagining Shanghai during her era of "The Paris of the East, The New York of the West".
However, I must say I love the beginning of the book. Well written and made me intrigued of Penelope's past and secrets. As the plot developed, I found myself getting bored and had to skimmed through most chapters because 90% dialogues with no chance for the reader to give in to the clues and taking time to guess what will happen next. Nonetheless, I appreciate the effort of the author trying to bring classic noir films vibe.
As for the characters, Penelope is really flat. She's pretty much the same from the beginning til the ending. Probably because this is the first book in the series. And she's not in any way helping out with the case, which I expected her to be since the series named so.
Thank you BookSiren for this copy in exchange for an honest review. Really appreciate it.
However, I must say I love the beginning of the book. Well written and made me intrigued of Penelope's past and secrets. As the plot developed, I found myself getting bored and had to skimmed through most chapters because 90% dialogues with no chance for the reader to give in to the clues and taking time to guess what will happen next. Nonetheless, I appreciate the effort of the author trying to bring classic noir films vibe.
As for the characters, Penelope is really flat. She's pretty much the same from the beginning til the ending. Probably because this is the first book in the series. And she's not in any way helping out with the case, which I expected her to be since the series named so.
Thank you BookSiren for this copy in exchange for an honest review. Really appreciate it.
Read
November 3, 2020What’s better than a book set in the Twenties? A murder mystery set in the Twenties! This was a fun and fast paced read that I enjoyed in one sitting. And it was perfect now that it’s starting to get a little chilly out, because I got to get extra comfy under some blankets with some hot cocoa to read this one. You know, the perfect setting to read a murder mystery in.
This book reads just like the time period it was set in, which is something that definitely takes some skill! I also really enjoyed the large amount of characters. I think that it just makes a murder mystery that much more complex. It varies the suspects and makes the plot muddied in the best way possible.
This book definitely started on the slower side, but once it picked up it just kept going! So get ready for plenty of suspense and action as you read. But this is a really enjoyable book and I really loved being thrown back into this time period!
You can view my full review & giveaway on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
This book reads just like the time period it was set in, which is something that definitely takes some skill! I also really enjoyed the large amount of characters. I think that it just makes a murder mystery that much more complex. It varies the suspects and makes the plot muddied in the best way possible.
This book definitely started on the slower side, but once it picked up it just kept going! So get ready for plenty of suspense and action as you read. But this is a really enjoyable book and I really loved being thrown back into this time period!
You can view my full review & giveaway on my blog! I also post about a lot of different types of books!
Reader | Bookstagrammer | Blogger | Reviewer
@ya.its.lit - https://www.instagram.com/ya.its.lit/
Blog - https://yaitslitblog.wordpress.com/
March 22, 2021
I absolutely loved this book because of the historic setting in 1928 a time when women in the US were starting to be a bit more emancipated. The heroine Penelope has just come back to her family after a short, disastrous marriage during which she lived in the Far East. Her dead spouse owned a nightclub and Penelope though not brought up in this world managed it as her spouse philandered away from home. Penelope now needs to get a job and her talent is she is a trained singer but scandal means it is hard to find students to teach. Her dead husband's lover is now in the US and she now seduces Penelope's dim but rich cousin.................... Then Renee (the mistress) is murdered and it is up to Penelope and the man who loves her (an ex-cop) to solve the mystery. However this is a dangerous pursuit.
This is an excellent mystery and period novel and I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, I really urge you to read it as it is very enjoyable.
This is an excellent mystery and period novel and I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, I really urge you to read it as it is very enjoyable.
October 19, 2020
This is an interesting read, set during prohibition in New York and centered around a young woman who moved there following the death of her husband and the sale of the nightclub that she owned there, 'The Jade Tiger' of the title.
As the story progresses we learn more and more about just what had gone on in Shanghai, and that nearly all of the characters have something to hide.
It is the characters that really make this book, they are are well drawn and believable, even more so as their darker secrets start to appear and we learn what really makes them tick.
I loved the evocative descriptions of prohibition era New York, the decadent partying of the upper classes and the desperation of the criminal classes, reduced to drinking petrol (or 'Smoke' as they called it) in lieu of the banned alcohol. The way the police were portrayed also felt very real, most of them good men, but some casually stealing cash from prisoners' effects and beating them up.
So, overall a good book with some excellent aspects, but I found it quite difficult to really engage with this book, I'm not quite sure why, but it took me a lot longer to read this book than it normally would to read a book of this length, It didn't engender the 'I must get back to it to find out what happens next' feeling that I usually get from mystery or thriller books.
I received an advance copy of this book but have voluntarily written this honest review.
As the story progresses we learn more and more about just what had gone on in Shanghai, and that nearly all of the characters have something to hide.
It is the characters that really make this book, they are are well drawn and believable, even more so as their darker secrets start to appear and we learn what really makes them tick.
I loved the evocative descriptions of prohibition era New York, the decadent partying of the upper classes and the desperation of the criminal classes, reduced to drinking petrol (or 'Smoke' as they called it) in lieu of the banned alcohol. The way the police were portrayed also felt very real, most of them good men, but some casually stealing cash from prisoners' effects and beating them up.
So, overall a good book with some excellent aspects, but I found it quite difficult to really engage with this book, I'm not quite sure why, but it took me a lot longer to read this book than it normally would to read a book of this length, It didn't engender the 'I must get back to it to find out what happens next' feeling that I usually get from mystery or thriller books.
I received an advance copy of this book but have voluntarily written this honest review.
October 11, 2020
Recently widowed opera singer and nightclub owner Penelope Harris has recently left Singapore to return to her family in prohibition era New York. Unfortunately, she's been followed by her husband's mistress who is hell bent on making her life as difficult as possible. With a cast of many colourful characters and filled with snappy dialogue, I found this a decent mystery. Penelope herself has hidden depths and not everything about her is as it seems. I thought she was a well written character in the way that the author gradually reveals her back story.
What let this down for me somewhat was that for a period mystery, the author focuses largely on the dialogue and doesn't spend a great deal of time on the descriptions of place and period (although I did enjoy her descriptions of the clothes at the party). Although I understand that it needed pace as well, I am a greedy reader who loves period atmosphere and I wanted some lavish descriptions of a decadent prohibition party. However, this may not bother other readers. The author had obviously done her research, particularly about Singapore and opera. I think that a prequel about her time in Singapore would be an interesting read as well as her planned sequel.
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
What let this down for me somewhat was that for a period mystery, the author focuses largely on the dialogue and doesn't spend a great deal of time on the descriptions of place and period (although I did enjoy her descriptions of the clothes at the party). Although I understand that it needed pace as well, I am a greedy reader who loves period atmosphere and I wanted some lavish descriptions of a decadent prohibition party. However, this may not bother other readers. The author had obviously done her research, particularly about Singapore and opera. I think that a prequel about her time in Singapore would be an interesting read as well as her planned sequel.
I received an advanced review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2020
This is really rather a four and a half star book. It was pretty good, but not quite five-star material.
Penelope Harris always wanted to be a famous singer. But she ended up singing in a Singapore nightclub. She is now in New York during Prohibition trying to lead a respectable life. But people from her past aren’t really interested in that.
When a less-than-reputable woman from her Singapore days turns up murdered at a party, Penelope is under suspicion.
This is well-written and there more than enough twists to keep you engaged. The plot doesn’t resolve until very near the end and the culprit isn’t obvious. Definitely worth the time.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Penelope Harris always wanted to be a famous singer. But she ended up singing in a Singapore nightclub. She is now in New York during Prohibition trying to lead a respectable life. But people from her past aren’t really interested in that.
When a less-than-reputable woman from her Singapore days turns up murdered at a party, Penelope is under suspicion.
This is well-written and there more than enough twists to keep you engaged. The plot doesn’t resolve until very near the end and the culprit isn’t obvious. Definitely worth the time.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2020
The Jade Tiger is a lushly written mystery short set in 1920's New York.
Penelope Harris is a newly widowed woman who has moved back from Shanghai to New York. She is the former owner of a popular club, the Jade Tiger. Her deceased husband was murdered in the club under sketchy circumstances.
What follows is a whirlwind of mayhem, ghosts from the past and secrets told.
The author writes descriptively to the point you feel as though you are part of the story.
E.W. Cooper has obviously done extensive research on the time period the book takes place. The descriptions of clothing, of the gatherings, dialogue of the characters etc. is realistic and makes reading a treat.
There a plenty of twists and turns along the way and the mystery is nicely solved at the end.
I am looking forward to the next book by this author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Penelope Harris is a newly widowed woman who has moved back from Shanghai to New York. She is the former owner of a popular club, the Jade Tiger. Her deceased husband was murdered in the club under sketchy circumstances.
What follows is a whirlwind of mayhem, ghosts from the past and secrets told.
The author writes descriptively to the point you feel as though you are part of the story.
E.W. Cooper has obviously done extensive research on the time period the book takes place. The descriptions of clothing, of the gatherings, dialogue of the characters etc. is realistic and makes reading a treat.
There a plenty of twists and turns along the way and the mystery is nicely solved at the end.
I am looking forward to the next book by this author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2020
Penelope Harris, an Opera singer, gave it up to marry a worthless man. With her inheritance, she opened the Jade Tiger, a nightclub in Shanghai. With her husband murdered and her father's death, she brought her family to New York to escape the scandal. Her notoriety and her husband's girlfriend, Renee, follows bringing trouble with her. Renee attempts to blackmail her. Renee taunts her about a party her cousin Mary is having. Mary begs Penelope to attend as Mary's brother Charles is engaged to Renee and she asks Penelope to try and buy her off from Charles. Charles announces their marriage at the party and a fight breaks out after a reporter tells Charles Renee is already married to someone else. During the uproar, Renee sneaks out and is murdered in the garden. The suspects abound and alibis are few. Can the police find the killer or will an innocent person be held responsible.
This book has numerous twists, everytime you think you know what has happened and what is happening, everything changes. Who is the real killer?
I received this book free for my review of same.
This book has numerous twists, everytime you think you know what has happened and what is happening, everything changes. Who is the real killer?
I received this book free for my review of same.
October 11, 2020
I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Personally, I am not a fan of slow paced novels. This one really has the main antagonizing situation happen 25% into it with everything prior being background and set up. Thereafter, I thought it would move at a decent pace, but the next chapters were almost exclusively investigative dialogue about things we either knew from the beginning set up or it is simply explanation with many new names added to a large cast. None of this is objectively bad, but it began to drag on and on with me wondering when people would start doing something or acting on the situation rather than discussing it and their pasts.
If you are a fan of historical fiction that has a slower pace, you may find this more enjoyable. If chapters of exclusively dialogue are not your thing, I would avoid it.
Personally, I am not a fan of slow paced novels. This one really has the main antagonizing situation happen 25% into it with everything prior being background and set up. Thereafter, I thought it would move at a decent pace, but the next chapters were almost exclusively investigative dialogue about things we either knew from the beginning set up or it is simply explanation with many new names added to a large cast. None of this is objectively bad, but it began to drag on and on with me wondering when people would start doing something or acting on the situation rather than discussing it and their pasts.
If you are a fan of historical fiction that has a slower pace, you may find this more enjoyable. If chapters of exclusively dialogue are not your thing, I would avoid it.
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