Madison Square Murders

Memento Mori #1

by C.S. Poe

Everett Larkin works for the Cold Case Squad: an elite—if understaffed and overworked—group of detectives who solve the forgotten deaths of New York City. Larkin is different from others, but his deduction skills are unmatched and his memory for minute details is unparalleled.

So when a spring thunderstorm uproots a tree in Madison Square Park, unearthing a crate with human remains inside, the best Cold Case detective is assigned the job. And when a death mask, like those prominent during the Victorian era, is found with the body, Larkin requests assistance from the Forensic Artists Unit and receives it in the form of Detective Ira Doyle, his polar opposite in every way.

Factual reasoning and facial reconstruction puts Larkin and Doyle on a trail of old homicide cases and a murderer obsessed with casting his victims’ likeness in death. Include some unapologetic flirting from Doyle, and this case just may end up killing Everett Larkin.

Genres: Mystery, M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, LGBT, Crime, Suspense

260 pages, ebook

First published September 28, 2021

About the author

C.S. Poe is an author of gay mystery, romance, and speculative fiction. She is a Lambda Literary and two-time EPIC award finalist, and FAPA, Indie, and two-time e-Lit award winner.

She resides in New York City, but has also called Key West and Ibaraki, Japan, home. She loves Romanticism artwork, Gilded Age New York, the films of Buster Keaton, coffee in the morning and whiskey in the evening, true crime, and cats. She’s rescued two cats—Milo and Kasper do their best to distract her from work on a daily basis.

C.S. is an alumna of the School of Visual Arts.

Her debut novel, The Mystery of Nevermore, was published 2016.

cspoe.com

Reviews

[Shile (Hazard's Version) semi-hiatus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook - 3.5 stars

Story - 4.25 stars

Crap! I have a book boyfriend named Doyle, now I have another potential one named Doyle. 😣🤦‍♀️

Anyhoo, I liked this one a lot. The mystery was engaging, characters likable even Larkin with all his baggage.

I want to see where the author takes the relationship, I love that it is already complicated. 😁😁

[Rosabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello C.S. Poe, nice to meet you, it's a real pleasure. 🥲🥲 Because I LOVED THIS BOOK!! 😍😍

Before I start fangirling with this, I wanna talk about the "cheating" part, which almost made me not read this, but thank God I did, so:

Larkin, the main guy, is married at the beginning of this book, but his marriage is falling apart. He has a condition that his husband just doesn't know how to deal with, so he treats him in a very toxic way, did I liked this trope? No, but I was really interested to know more about Larkin and Doyle to drop this, that's how good their characters are written.

And I also can't deny how I enjoyed the way Larkin treated his feelings for Doyle, once he admitted to himself what was happening he dumped Noah, he didn't overthink it and the author didn't drag it anymore, wich I'm grateful for. So yeah, there is a kissing that shouldn't have happened and yes, his relationship was going that route anyways, but that doesn't make it ok. I guess I loved the characters too much to get stuck in that 🤷🏻‍♀️.

And the mystery, I DIDN'T KNOW WHO WAS THE KILLER UNTIL LARKIN DID!!! And he was right there all the time!!! Like whuuut?? HOW? But yeah, the mystery was on point, the clues, the search and Larkin and Doyle were a wonderful pair that complemented each other beautifully.

The like between them, because this is the first book so there isn't love yet, was very respectful, very heartwarming and very understanding. Doyle knew what to do with Larkin's condition and Larkin was just stunned that he was being treated right, that someone could understand him, so that says a lot doesn't it?

IT'S OK BABY LARKIN I'LL PROTECT YOUR ASS!!! *puts him know her pocket*

So yeah, I loved this and I can't wait for the next. 😍😍

Any recs on other books from this author? 🤔

[moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus] · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars ☆

Doyle went to the door, threw the deadbolt, then walked across the bathroom. He leaned against the wall beside Larkin—close enough that their shoulders were a breath apart. "People don't want to know." He was quiet, so absolute in his agreeance. Doyle cast Larkin a sideways glance. "But I do."

i've honestly been on a reading slump since the beginning of the month and this was the first book i picked up after two weeks of not reading anything (although it's not my longest slump, it always feels weird when i'm not reading lol). not to mention, i've had a constant streak of misses before that so yall have no idea how happy i am to finally discover another great read. 😭

i loved both mcs, Larkin and Doyle, so much. they have my whole heart. Larkin was cold and reserved on the outside, but he cared deeply inside for others (who deserve it, i mean. i love how he doesn't give a shit towards assholes in his work place though🤣) and it showed in the case he was working on in this book and how much it affected him. i also loved his dry sense of humor, lmao. on the other hand, Doyle was his complete opposite: carefree, straightforward and flirty (but definitely has his serious side when the situation calls for it and the way he's so patient when it comes to Larkin, my heart- 😭) and yet, these two just... somehow worked so well together. i loved how they seemed to understand one another on a deep level, in a way where they can see past the other's "facade". 🥺

the mystery was quite intriguing, especially with the whole concept of death masks and how creepy it was. i'm also excited to see where the development between Larkin and Doyle goes within the next books!! <3

[Eugenia · Rating 5 out of 5]

AUDIOBOOK- Dec 2021: Fantastic characterization of both MCs’❤️❤️❤️

ORIGINAL REVIEW- Sept 2021:

4.5 Stars….A WINNER! 👏👏👏

What wholly intriguing characters! I had a hell of a fun time getting to know these two men & figuring out whodunnit in CS Poe’s latest mystery!

Meet Larkin, (aka: Evie, Grim Reaper), a neurodivergent cold-case detective on the trail of a possible serial killer. Meet Doyle, a laid back sketch artist who attaches himself to Larkin’s case and to the man himself.

The plot and mystery were solid. There was a slow burn between the two men & nothing more than a kiss happens in this book—yet, I was so involved in the case, I didn’t miss the sex! 😱😍

The writing was solid, save for a bit of overwriting here and there, which I attribute to Larkin’s POV—am I right, Carol??

I love how Poe has a penchant for creating neurodiverse characters and making me fall in love with them!

Here’s to the rest of the series, which I need ASAP!

Thanks to the author for the ARC, all views and opinions are my own.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why didn’t I read this book sooner? I loved everything about it. I was sucked into the mystery from the very beginning. Maybe because it was original, and interesting. I adored the both MC’s, Everett Larkin and Ira Doyle. They are absolute opposite each other in every way, but they work smoothly together and are determined to solve the murder.

I listened to the audiobook and it was fantastic. The narrator, Kale Williams, gave a distinctive voice for each characters. I loved his voice for Larkin, very realistic.

It’s going to be hard not to jump into book 2, but I am going to try to wait for the audiobook.

Highly recommend.

[Kati *☘︎･ﾟ readsRomance · Rating 5 out of 5]

5***** stars


I’m honestly not sure who impressed me more here. Larkin, our main character, and his brilliant working mind or C.S. Poe, the author who invented him.

Everett Larkin was an unbelievably fascinating character and it pained me to witness how hard his genius was on him while everyone saw it as such a gift. And it really was impressive.

Ira Doyle was such an amazing character as well. In a total different way than Larkin, tho. He was very smart too, infinitely calm and collected while also being so warm, lovable and understanding. I honestly couldn’t get enough of him. (I would’ve died for even one chapter of his pov!!) And he calls Larkin "Evie" -- I loved it!! *clutches heart And Larkin did too.

The cold murder case was interesting and because of both detectives investigative skills this whole story pulled me in right from the beginning. And just for the record: I didn’t got that very last part after Doyle left at all. What was that about?


I also loved the blooming romance between Larkin & Doyle. Even with that one moment that is a no go for so many romance readers.

’Til death do us part.
And then, quite suddenly, Larkin’s mind silenced and only one thought rose to the top: I’m dying.

⚠️ this paragraph contains spoilers
Be it as it may. Larkin’s and his husband Noah’s state of marriage and my absolute understanding for Larkin’s feelings - what comes next shows one of my biggest fears when it comes to relationships: being left suddenly without seeing it coming. Despite everything, in that moment it broke my heart for Noah a little bit too.




All in all, this was such a blast; smart and with great writing. I highly recommend it to everyone who enjoys mystery novels with a spit of romance. ♡

I’m glad that the audio for the second book is expected to release before this year ends, hopefully not long after the book releases at the end of the month. The audio btw was fantastic. Kale Williams did an outstanding job with the narration in general and the voices he gave Larkin and Doyle felt amazingly fitting. Only, his voices for the females truly sucked. Fortunately there weren’t many *lmaoooo


side note: When re-read my review it feels a bit odd to refer to the characters by their last names but as this book was a lot about their detective work these were the names the author used the most as well - so I guess they stuck with me for both mc’s.



***********
Memento Mori Series

Book 1 - Madison Square Murders - 5 stars
Book 2 - Subway Slayings - 5 stars
Book 3 - Broadway Butchery - audio release summer '23

[Simone - on indefinite hiatus - · Rating 5 out of 5]

October 2022: Audiobook = ***4.5 Stars***

*********************

October 2021:

"Remembrance is the greatest act of love there is. Because... because no one is truly dead and gone, so long as someone remembers them."

This book broke my little heart...

[Rain · Rating 5 out of 5]

A MM, mystery/thriller, with a lead character who has HSAM. (Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory).

I had to look that up. Individuals with HSAM have a superior ability to recall specific details of autobiographical events, tend to spend a large amount of time thinking about their past and have a detailed understanding of the calendar and its patterns.

Information in this story is dribbled out in utter perfection. The writing is intelligent, sharp, witty, and emotional. The dialogue is on point.

"Are you looking to interview me because I’m a fucking fantastic detective with a track record to prove it, who is also gay, or do you want to interview me because I’m gay. Because being gay does not qualify me to be particularly good at any one thing. Nor does it make me a pleasant person, as you have likely gathered from this conversation.”

This book is filled with EMOTION, and flirty banter, but no actual steam. I can’t wait for the next in the series.

[Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️4.5⭐️

Second read; I hate Noah more this time

***

First read: This book definitely found me at the right time. It wasn’t the best book I’ve ever read but I just enjoyed it so much that I couldn’t not give it five stars considering I don’t ever really love crime books. I’m so happy I only have to wait two months for the sequel.

[suz ~Always Reading~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this! CS Poe continues to amaze me with the stories she writes. I feel smarter after I read one of her books!

This is a mystery story but also a story about Everett Larkin who is suffering the aftermath from a traumatic event that occurred on August 2, 2002. Ever since that incident he has had HSAM, Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory. He can recall dates, events, emotions but he does not have a good short term memory.

When bones are discovered under a fallen tree in Madison Square there is also a death mask. Larkin calls upon Ira Doyle, a detective with the Forensic Artists Unit. Doyle is the total opposite of Larkin, he’s handsome, tall and flirtatious. Larkin thinks this will be a nightmare being paired up with him. I loved Doyle right away, it’s hard not too. He is so sweet and a people person. Where Larkin is gruff Doyle is gentle. These two work so well together and Larkin learns there is so much more to Doyle.

Larkin is married to a selfish man who doesn’t understand him at all. Noah was so aggravating! What Larkin can’t find in anyone, even his husband, is someone who gets him. Doyle is that person. Their interactions were so sweet! I love the self discovery Larkin made because of Doyle. This is a romance that is going to be so good!!!!

I feel like there was so much more to this book than the mystery and I cannot wait for the next one. Poe really hit it out of the park with this one.

March 2022 Audiobook Review:
Story: 5 stars
Narration: 4 stars

I still adored this story and I feel like C.S. Poe is amazing. She does her research and if you follow any of her social media accounts she shares her research. It’s always fascinating to me.

I loved the mystery, I loved Larkin and I think Doyle is the perfect book boyfriend! Every time he called Everett “Evie” I melted. I am super excited to read more about their relationship and watching it grow.

Kale Williams is the narrator and I enjoy his work. I think he was a great choice for this book but sometimes I felt like it was hard to differentiate between Larkin and Doyle. He gives all the characters different voices but there were a few times those two were a bit similar.

I also felt like I could tell he was reading at times. Since Larkin is very monotone it presents a challenge because the narrator can’t put too much inflection into the voice therefore it sounds like it’s just being read and doesn’t sound like it’s coming naturally. He did the performance and that’s probably a good thing he sounded like that. It was just something I wasn’t used to from him.

[C.S. Poe]

Buy Links:

Ebooks, Paperback, and Audio

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

♡This was sooo good, I've already preordered the 2nd book♡

Hands down one of best murder/mystery/detective books I've read in a long time. The plot was so well thought-out, kept me interested the entire time and wrapped up nice enough to leave open for another book. It wasn't so much of a cliffhanger that I'll be left stressing until book 2, but it was enough that I wish I waited to read this until September.

Now the real winner for this book were our two MMCs. They had chemistry. They were unique. They were such a pleasure to read about and the relationship between them ... well, barely anything happened, but it was so sweet and wonderful to read about it slowly blossoming that I hardly noticed there was no sex, dates etc. I think the author has paced this relationship perfectly to last a series and appreciate the slow-burn of a good romance.

The main character (Larkin) has HSAM. I've never heard of it before this book, but Poe did an AMAZING job writing about it. The internal monologues, the time checking, the way he spoke; it was phenomenally well written and put this story well above the rest. I also loved the use of the other MC (Doyle) being a forensic artist. I haven't read about that before, and apart from him being a ray of sunshine, I loved the new angle in a detective novel.

You'll love this book if you like MM romance, a unique MC, excellent detective work with an intriguing plot, don't mind your romance slow slow burn, and love your detectives being into each other.

***trigger warnings: homophobia, minor violence, mention of death (really not much trigger warnings, expect what you would in a murder mystery novel)

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

As usual with this author, the writing and the mystery are very well done. The character of Everett Larkin is a quirk that I don't think I have ever encountered before. As a result of being hit in the head with a baseball bat he recalls the most mundane facts...continuously. This can be a help in his job as a New York City Police Detective, but it is usually a turn off to most people he encounters...until he met Ira Doyle. To complicate matters he's thinking of divorcing his husband, or at the most leaving him....we really won't miss the husband as it was like he only had a "walk-on" role and not at all necessary to the story or the series. Several things make this different than any other books that I've read by this author...Larkin's memory recall and the death masks was the most interesting and unusual. In spite of the good points with this first book in a new series, she is going to have to go some to put this one even on the level with her Snow and Winters series. I'll hold judgement until I've read the second book,

[Simona · Rating 4 out of 5]

The mystery is so goood!
The romance is quite subtle and not so important but i really loved the case!

[Ami · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everett Larkin - called "Grim" by his colleagues over the Cold Case Squad - is an extraordinary and dedicated detective because he refuses to forget about the victims. Well, he can't really. Larkin has a rare memory condition called Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory (HSAM). Larkins's memory is like a rolodex. He can remember specific incidents - though not so much on 'small/not routine' ones. Larkin is not born with it though. It comes to him after a horrible tragedy eighteen years prior.

Then Larkins catches a case of a buried body with death mask in Madison Square Park, which leads him to temporary partnership with Forensic Artist, Detective Ira Doyle. For the first time in his life, Larkin finds someone who may understand him like no other - that knows what Larkin needs the most...

---

I haven't read many books from C.S. Poe - but once I saw the word Cold Case Squad my interest sky-rocketed. I admit that from all of murder/mystery category, I love one with cold cases the most. I LOVE it when the detectives find answers to the forgotten victims. Where they crack a case that starts simply from bones or long-buried skulls.

Okay, first of all, the mystery... I LOVE IT! I love the process that Larkin and Doyle go through to unravel the mystery - finding out clues, asking persons of interest. Their process might be different, Larkin is not as charming as Doyle, due to his condition, Larkin is socially-challenged, even if his deductive skills is amazing. Doyle is more charming, more empathic in talking to people, and he's also observant.

I figured out the "bad guy" the same time Larkin did - so that is something.

Now, the characters and the 'romantic' relationship... I love the characters, I mean these two have LAYERS on them that I'd love to understand more. However, I'm going to state this outright... Larkin, in this book at least, is currently married. And since the author decides to make the husband someone I can easily hate - he doesn't understand Larkin, he pretty much emotionally abuses Larkin -- it's very natural to root for Larkin and Doyle.

For me, this feels... uhm, manipulative somehow. Not a fan of this kind of conflict or situation in my books, to be honest.

BUT... I am still going to continue with this series. The mystery and the characters trump my dislike over the "complicated" relationship part. I just hope that husband doesn't become the next victim. That will be a very nice and easy way out to dissolve the marriage 🤷‍♀️

[Caz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've given this an A at AAR.

Madison Square Murders, the first book in C.S. Poe’s new Memento Mori series, is a compelling read featuring an intriguing, cleverly constructed mystery and one of the most unusual lead characters I’ve ever come across, a neuroatypical detective in New York City whose unique memory condition makes him an outstanding detective while at the same time causing him to struggle with anxiety, social interaction and the ability to function properly at even a basic – what most of us might consider ‘normal’ – level.

When a crate containing human remains is unearthed after a tree in Madison Square Park is uprooted by a spring thunderstorm, Detective Everett Larkin of the Cold Case Squad is called to the scene.  The remains are clearly not new or recent, and although Larkin will have to wait for official confirmation, initial findings indicate that the deceased was a young man in his twenties – and most unusually, there’s what appears to be a bronze casting of a face tucked in near his feet.  It’s an impressive piece of work artistically – but there’s no way of knowing if it’s a cast of the victim’s face or of someone totally unrelated.  The CSU at the scene suggests the casting is a death mask – and that Larkin should get in touch with Detective Ira Doyle, one of NYPD’s small team of forensic artists, to get some expert advice.

Ira Doyle is something of a surprise to Larkin.  Optimistic, flirtatious and always ready with a quip and a smile, he proves not only to be a talented artist and knowledgeable about his subject, but also very competent detective, able to keep up with Larkin’s not-always-easy-to-follow thought processes and not fazed by his… quirks.  Doyle sets to work straight away, and in less than twenty-four hours, his facial reconstruction coupled with Larkin’s deep-dive into hundreds of missing person reports has enabled them to give a forgotten man his identify back and to work out that they’re investigating a murder that took place twenty-two years earlier.  As Larkin and Doyle dig deeper, it becomes apparent that this wasn’t the killer’s first or only victim; nor was this the first or only death mask to have been made. They’re looking for an as yet unidentified serial killer.

Madison Square Murders was a hard book to put down!  The mystery is superbly constructed and satisfyingly complex without being either overcomplicated or too easily unravelled, and there’s a lovely opposites-attract romance building between Larkin and Doyle that’s very clearly based on the solid foundations of genuine mutual respect and understanding.  But what really puts this book into the DIK bracket is the characters, especially Larkin, who is a fantastic protagonist and unlike anyone I’ve ever read before.  He’s fiercely intelligent and doesn’t make a secret of it, but personally, he’s a hot mess, unsure, deeply damaged and finding it increasingly difficult to keep it together.  His HSAM (Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory) is often (thoughtlessly) admired by others, but for him it’s not so much a gift as it is a curse. It means he’s unable to forget a single tragedy or misfortune once he’s learned of it, the “rolodex” in his mind always moving and flipping between one association and the next, while his short term memory is hopeless and he can’t function from one hour to the next without a detailed daily plan.  Not helping matters right now is his disintegrating marriage; Larkin is starting to realise that his husband doesn’t really know him and doesn’t want to – possibly that he never wanted to – and despite all his promises that Larkin wouldn’t have to hide his quirks at home, seems to have believed all along that Larkin could and would change. The way the author illuminates Larkin’s inner world is simply brilliant; his words and thoughts, his feelings, his insecurities and his deep-seated need to be seen and understood, all are expertly – sometimes heartbreakingly – well communicated and bring this unique character vividly to life.

Ira Doyle is the perfect foil for him despite their outward differences. In complete contrast to Larkin, Doyle is laid-back and charming with a killer smile, but as Larkin very quickly discerns, he’s also whip-smart and a very good detective as well as a talented artist.  More importantly, Doyle seems to instinctively know just the right thing to say or do to stop Larkin spiralling or make him feel comfortable when he becomes overloaded by impressions and associations, and Larkin slowly starts to realise that here, in a person he’s known for less than three days, he’s found someone who sees him more clearly than anyone ever has – even his husband.  He also works out that there’s more to Doyle than his bright smile and easy-going manner would suggest, that the reason he’s so good at putting Larkin at ease is that he has his own demons to slay, that he, too, has suffered loss and heartbreak – it’s just that he’s much better at hiding it.  Doyle may not be as obviously colourful a character as Larkin, but he’s no mere sidekick and is equally well-written and fleshed-out.

The story takes place over just a few days, but the progress of the relationship is perfect, not too fast, not too slow, but a careful progression from colleagues to friends to the possibility of more in the future, and the mystery reaches a satisfactory conclusion – although (and I should be used to this from Ms. Poe by now!) there’s a cliffhanger designed to lead into the next book.

Madison Square Murders is a cracking read and a terrific series opener.  Book two can’t arrive soon enough!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

October and murder mysteries are like peanut butter and chocolate. Perfect combinations for me to bite into!

C.S. Poe’s Madison Square Murders has the dead bodies, the clues, and the hunt for a killer or killers. You know…the typical mix of ingredients to make and bake a murder mystery. Except this tale has Larkin and Doyle leading the way.

Everett Larkin (aka Grim) is a New York City Detective with the Cold Case Squad, a man dedicated to making sure old, unsolved cases and victims are remembered. Larkin has a reputation for being a bit rigid and creepy, but there is so much more to the man. I got a kick out of this description of Larkin—Cute. “In a stick-up-the-ass, sees the world in black-and-white with a severely disadvantaged sense of humor sort of way.” Haha…I’ll let you discover Larkin on your own.

This particular skeleton in a crate, cold case has Larkin teaming up with Detective Ira Doyle with the Forensic Artists Unit, who is one hell of a detective, artist, and flirt. Flirt with a capital “F”! His easy, open, reassuring vibe is the flip side of Larkin’s rigid, closed off ways. Together they create some serious chemistry. The energy between Doyle and Larkin felt very natural and intimate to me. It was heat filled with attraction, but also respect and communication. They found something in each other. And it’s something special to read and experience on the page. I adored every interaction from the very first meeting and proposal to the last.

The mystery didn’t surprise or shock and the police procedures felt rather thin at times to me. But hells bells…Give me a cold case filled with file folders, databases, and skeletons and I’m a happy woman. I just love the dust and digging! Especially with Larkin and Doyle talking, flirting, and more along the way.

An intelligent and riveting introduction to a series and duo that kept me up reading well past my bedtime. I love when that happens!

Highly recommended. Can’t wait for more.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I adored Larkin and Doyle. Doyle is just the person Larkin needs in his life and I'm excited to see their relationship grow yes, Larkin is unhappily married in this story so anyone sensitive to cheating in any form may have an issue with this. The mystery was interesting - as were all the historical touches that CS Poe does so well - and there are a few Easter eggs for fans. There's quite the tease at the end that has me already waiting for the next book to arrive.

Fans of the Snow & Winter books or anyone who enjoys a good mystery with interesting characters will definitely want to pick this one up!

[Ben Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

There's just something about mystery romances that does it for me. I love them and Madison Square Murders was no exception. It has a mystery that kept me engaged and a strong romance between our main characters.

I'm lucky I don't have long to wait for the sequel, Subway Slayings.

[Elisa Glendenning]

I loved certain elements but others not so much … too conflicted to review, so leaving unrated!

[Nark]

dnf @ 25%, might try again later

[Alexandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the characters Everett and Doyle are cute together. I love the bit cheating vibes too, I know I’m the odd one, but yay!

[Kaje Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Larkin caught my interest and empathy from the beginning, as a neuroatypical main character who combines brilliance, social ineptness, a traumatic past, and a passion for justice. He has a photographic memory for his own past but it's not the bonus you'd think it might be, since it works by dumping him back full strength into the events, sometimes traumatic ones. When his Cold Case detective unit catches the case of a skeleton found beneath the roots of an uprooted tree, Larkin ends up working with Doyle, a police sketch artist.

Doyle is everything Larkin isn't. Smooth, mellow, social, a little flirty, and quick to recognize pain in others. He is like Larkin, though, in his intelligence and his passion for his work.

Being with Doyle is a revelation for Larkin, the first time in years he's been with someone who values him, and who doesn't treat his issues as inconveniences, or overreactions. And in that revelation, Larkin begins to rethink where his life has drifted to. While also trying to catch a decades-past killer.

This is my favorite book yet by Poe, and a favorite character in recent M/M. The mystery is twisty enough to keep me guessing and following along, but it's the developing characters and relationship between Larkin and Doyle that makes this book shine. The story ends in a HFN, although things are tentative across the board, and there's a little serial-killer teaser for the next book. The hook wasn't needed. Just the chance to spend more time with these MCs had me preordering right from my e-reader.

[Kaity B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread/Relisten #1 January 2023

One year later and this book still got me with that twist. I did a reread for book two which I am reading now since the audiobook just came out.

I love Larkin and Doyle, they are truly like Sherlock and Watson haha love it!

4.5-5 stars January 2022

This is a yes on all fronts…well almost all fronts there is a small moment of cheating where Larkin kissed Doyle and Larkin is still married (yes his marriage isn’t good and it was going down the shitter haha but still doesn’t make it right)

I will say even with that small bit of cheating, the mystery and the way that Doyle and Larkin worked together brought back the BBC Sherlock memories. They were like Sherlock and Watson and I lived for that!

Kale Williams also did a great job with the narration.

Yes this kind of ended in a cliffhanger… sooo kinda upset that I didn’t wait until there were more books out since we don’t have a date for the next book but now I know how addicting CS Poes writing is, I will try out some of her other books!!

[~Preeti~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5✨ Absolutely Genius….
The intriguing mystery plot was enough to guarantee a 4-star rating from me But I certainly approve of complicated Everett and delightful Doyle as side attractions.🤩🤩

[Cyndi · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars - I love being reminded that I don't need steam in order to enjoy a book. There's a wholesome girl buried within me somewhere (just kidding, there's not). The slooooow romance development in these mystery series has become my drug of choice lately. Shoot that UST directly into my veins and keep it coming.

Larkin was such an interesting character. People thought his particular type of neurodivergence was some sort of superpower, but his reality poked holes in that theory. While it helped him in ways, it hindered him in others and those hinderances could easily turn a good day into a really bad one within seconds. The author did such a great job at leaking pieces of his backstory throughout the book. Even at the end, I felt like there was so much more to know about him and his life "before" and "after". Also, his tirades were legendary and well worth the cost of admission.

Doyle turned me into a puddle of goo. The hair band...god. He was the best kind of wonderful. He wasn't perfect. In fact, I was very disappointed in him (and Larkin) at one point. But he was such a warm and caring person overall. At times it was easy to forget that he and Larkin had only known each other for a few days because they just seemed to get each other. Since this story was told in Larkin's perspective, I felt like I got to know very little about Doyle's backstory and hope to spend some time in his world in future books.

I'm not very good at reviewing the mystery part of mysteries because I don't feel like I can write anything about the case itself. Everything you need to know is in the blurb and anything more is probably a spoiler. I can say that I thought the mystery was constructed and handled really well and I was genuinely clueless as to who the killer was. And I'm so glad the second book comes out soon because the way this book ended was just plain mean to anyone who read it the day it was released. I'll have to prepare myself to pack my patience after the next one.

[Nelly S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 stars

“Larkin looked up. “How old are you.”
“I say daddy and you immediately ask how old I am?”
“What? No. I didn’t mean—“
Doyle crossed his arms. He was grinning so hard, his face looked about ready to split in two. “Thirty-nine.”
Larkin nodded. His cheeks were burning. He looked at the sketch a second time.
Doyle shifted, got closer, and whispered, “Is that a good age?”
“Jesus Christ.” Larkin returned to his own desk, as Doyle laughed again.”

I’m delighted that I’ve found another great romantic suspense series! Larkin and Doyle make such a good couple and team. Larkin is neurodivergent and has HSAM (Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory) so he has all these weird verbal and cognitive tics, while Doyle is a super laidback, extroverted guy—talk about opposites attract. Their romance is a wonderful slow burn with grumpy/sunshine and hurt/comfort tropes. It is very low steam, but the wonderful UST and relationship development more than make up for it. And I haven’t even gotten to the mystery itself, which is gripping as hell! The writing is beautiful and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. There’s great banter and their exchanges are hilarious. Larkin and Doyle have quickly joined my shortlist of favorite couples.

[Iz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

"Madison Square Murders" is, possibily, one of my favourite reads of the year. I've said this time and time again, but it's worth repeating: C.S. Poe is a gem of a writer and her stories just keep getting better and grittier, more unforgettable and thrilling.
I managed to finish this in less than 48 hours and I'm literally restraing myself from starting it all over again.

This first book is the riveting start to a new mystery series I'd literally sell my soul for so I could have the sequels all available on my kindle.
It's protagonist, Everett Larkin, is a highly intelligent, neurodivergent detective in the NYPD's Cold Case Squad that gets assigned a twenty-year-old murder to investigate, a murder that seems to be connected to death masks. Enter: Ira Doyle, detective and brilliant forensic artist, with a penchant for flirting and for surprising the hell out of Larkin.

I adored them both, so so much. Larkin is a wonderful protagonist: he's smart and he knows it, but he's also broken and traumatized and unsure and spinning out of control and God, I wanted to reach inside the book and whisk him away to somewhere safe and warm. The book is told entirely from his point of view and what an unique point of view it was: C.S. Poe has really outdone herself here. Larkin's words and feelings, his thought-process, his brain's inner workings... it's all sketched out in such a vivid and brilliant way. I literally had to stop and catch my breath at times: his inner world is poetic and overwhelming and I never wanted to leave. Ira Doyle was such a wonderful counterpart to Larkin: sunny and flirty, capable and respectful, with hidden depths and heartaches and I cannot wait to see what else the author has in mind for these two.
Their banter was top-notch and hilarious and heartwarming, their more intimate and softer scenes together stirring and lovely.

And the murder plot? It was brilliant and dark and gritty. I gasped and shouted and had a literal nightmare about some of it (it was worth it, though). It was also creative and well-constructed and unexpected and, for the life of me, I couldn't figure out who was the bad guy and what was going to happen next. And that ending? Well, I'm now ready to sell my soul (and also my kidney) to have the second book in my hands.
This book is out on the 28th of September and if you love dark, angst-y mystery novels with a touch of romance (and heartbreak), go and buy it. I'll buy it for you otherwise.

[CrabbyPatty · Rating 5 out of 5]

As much as I love Poe's Snow & Winter series, this new series is just as good .... perhaps better. And that is saying a lot.

The Latin phrase Memento Mori - "Remember that you must die" - is about the inevitability of death, but also the understanding it can help you cherish every moment and feel gratitude for what you have.

Cold-case detective Everett Larkin is exceptional at what he does, aided (or hindered) by HSAM - Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory. He is neurodivergent and recalls everything that has happened since August 2, 2002 (and we learn as the story unfolds what happened that day) and he also recalls every emotion, so August 2, 2002 and its sorrow and heartache is just as fresh and horrible as it was the moment it happened.

When a storm topples a tree and reveals a buried cage with 20+ year old body and a death mask , Larkin is tasked with learning who the victim is and solving the murder. He receives the assistance of Detective Ira Doyle, of the Forensic Artists Unit, an equally talented detective who carries a burden of his own, which slowly unfolds over the course of the story.

Larkin had acquaintances.
He had colleagues.
He had a husband.
But he had no friends.
He had no partnership - no day to compliment his night.

Poe shows us just how perfect these two men are for one another, intellectually and emotionally. And it's not so much a case that "neither were complete with the other. A partnership shouldn't fill missing pieces, but instead enhance what was already present." The gradual way we learn how Ira and Larkin enhance and compliment each other is splendid, and although there is only a handful of kisses throughout the book, their emotional connection is off the chart.

The murder / mystery is meticulously charted and researched and I especially love how Poe gives us strange and off-the-wall information that you don't even realize just how much you need to know. We also get a few glimpses of Neil Millett, Sebastian's ex in the Snow & Winter series, and here's hoping that Detective Calvin Winter makes an appearance in the Memento Mori series.

Warning: The book ends with a huge cliffhanger (after thinking everything is neatly tied up); I highly recommend this book, and cannot wait for the next book in this new series. 5 stars.

I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

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[Dumbledore11214 · Rating 2 out of 5]

Everett Larkin works for the Cold Case Squad: an elite—if understaffed and overworked—group of detectives who solve the forgotten deaths of New York City. Larkin is different from others, but his deduction skills are unmatched and his memory for minute details is unparalleled.

So when a spring thunderstorm uproots a tree in Madison Square Park, unearthing a crate with human remains inside, the best Cold Case detective is assigned the job. And when a death mask, like those prominent during the Victorian era, is found with the body, Larkin requests assistance from the Forensic Artists Unit and receives it in the form of Detective Ira Doyle, his polar opposite in every way.

Factual reasoning and facial reconstruction puts Larkin and Doyle on a trail of old homicide cases and a murderer obsessed with casting his victims’ likeness in death. Include some unapologetic flirting from Doyle, and this case just may end up killing Everett Larkin.

Review:
So, this is more of a short rant with SPOILERS no less - I will probably do more detailed review if I will be in the mood, but my god I hated the main character. Selfish prick. Yes, yes I know he is supposed to be traumatized by the event in the past and this rewired his whole brain and now he is what he is and everybody is supposed to be understanding and stuff.

Only he does not have to, he can ignore his husband as he pleases, his texts, his attempts at communication at saving their marriage. I just could not spare an ounce of sympathy for poor traumatized Larkin. I hoped that his husband whom he ignores and then leaves would find somebody who would love and appreciate him.

I don't even know why I got so upset. Normally I am the kind of reader who is perfectly happy even with cheating in my romances as long as it influences the plot and character development - basically when it makes sense. there is no cheating in this book, but it is just I was so obviously reading and interpreting against the author's intent that I can't deal with it.

Larkin tells us that Noah ignored poor him, but on the page is the absolute opposite. Argh.

Also, and I don't deny that it is a secondary issue, very secondary, but at times I thought that he was a badly drawn Holmes caricature. Of course there are tons super observant detectives, but would they do the thing every single time in real life? Every single time .

Mystery itself was fine, although the resolution was like, huh so was the killer caught or not really?