Bill's 2017 Challenge - Ongoing Series

[Skye]

:)) can't get better than Kinsey Hillhone, huh? It's like coming home after a difficult vacation.

[Bill]

She is always good value for the money, eh? I always wished they would do a TV series based on the books. I gather Sue Grafton has refused to let the books be turned into movies or TV shows.. Ah well...

[Marian]

Bill wrote: "She is always good value for the money, eh? I always wished they would do a TV series based on the books. I gather Sue Grafton has refused to let the books be turned into movies or TV shows.. Ah we..."

I found this online about Sue Grafton..

When her early literary efforts stalled, she turned to writing made-for-TV movies in Los Angeles. It was a brief and mostly undistinguished career that yielded just a dozen titles, most notably an adaptation of Agatha Christie's "A Caribbean Mystery" in 1983 and the 1985 picture "Love on the Run" starring a very young Alec Baldwin.
She is very adamant,that she was not going to let Hollywood turn her alphabet books to be made into movies.

[Thomas]

I have read that she told her children that if they signed a movie/tv deal after she died, that she would come back and haunt them.

[Skye]

This is so interesting: I think her books would make great television movies. I give her credit, though, for not succumbing to Hollywood.

[Bill]

Maybe she would change her mind now, seeing how many new specialty stations make such great series. And seeing how well the Jesse Stone TV movies have been (can't compare to the books, mind you, as I have yet to start that series.) I always picture Sigourney Weaver as Kinsey Milhone, but maybe she's too old for the role now as I think Kinsey is 40's / 50's? How about Embeth Davidtz?

[Skye]

Signourney weaver is far too old, Bill, and I will have to google Emberth Davidtz. I think Demi Moore could pull it off or Katherin Heigle if she dyed her hair dark.

[Skye]

Emberth would be great.

[Bill]

Skye wrote: "Signourney weaver is far too old, Bill, and I will have to google Emberth Davidtz. I think Demi Moore could pull it off or Katherin Heigle if she dyed her hair dark."

Katherine Heigl has already been Stephanie Plum. She should stick with that. I have mixed feelings about Demi Moore...

[Thomas]

I agree that Sigourney Weaver is now too old. She would have perfect 20 years ago. Embeth Davidtz or Stana Katic would be good.

[Skye]

Stana might be too pretty, I know Katherine did Stephanie Plum, and I didn't think it fit ( it wasn't my favorite series), maybe Jennifer Esposito.

[Bill]

I always thought either Jennifer Esposito or Carlo Gugino would have been great as Stephanie Plum...

[Skye]

That works, Katherine Heigel did not; she is too refined and dainty.

[Bill]

And one thing Stephanie Plum is not, is refined or dainty, eh?

[Skye]

Not at all!!!!

[Bill]

Ratking is the first book in the Aurelio Zen mystery series by Michael Dibdin. I first became aware of the series when it was turned into a British TV series starring Rufus Sewell as Inspector Zen. When I discovered it was based on a book series, I had to try and find a copy.
Zen is a disgraced Italian Criminal Investigator who has been placed into an administrative position due to events that resulted in the kidnapping of former Italian PM Aldo Moro. As a result of a series of phone calls he is placed back into the investigation service to help solve a kidnapping of a wealthy industrialist in the North of Italy, in Perugia.
He basically finds himself in a no-win situation. The local police resent him being there and the family of the kidnappee are suspected of involvement. It's a meandering sort of case as Zen works to find the kidnappee and also the kidnappers. Events take a bad turn when a body is found and Zen finds himself being used as a scapegoat for the lack of success. With nothing to lose, he works against the system and time to solve the kidnapping and murder(s).
I enjoyed the story although I do think I preferred the TV series. However, it was interesting to see the Italian political system at work and to get to know Zen. It was also interesting trying to compare Zen to one of my favourite Italian police inspectors, Donna Leon's Inspector Brunetti. I'll have to keep reading to see if Zen can live up to Brunetti. (3.5 stars)

Visiting the 87th Precinct next to experience my 1st mystery there, Cop Hater by Ed McBain

[Bill]

Death and Letters is the second Henry Gamadge mystery by Elizabeth Daly that I've read this year. I am enjoying getting into the books very much.
Gamadge is a writer and a man who likes to explore the world of letters and writing, hiring himself out to verify the authenticity of antique correspondence. In Death and Letters he receives correspondence from Mrs. Coldfield, who is being held incommunicado by her family. She manages to send a request for assistance hidden in a crossword puzzle. Gamadge acts quickly to remove her from her situation and then investigates a possible murder of her husband.
The tale involves correspondence between a matriarch of the family, Coldfield's husband's grandmother and a famous English poet. In his unique style, Gamadge works through the case, trying to ascertain who in the family or maybe a close friend might have been involved in murdering Mrs. Coldfield's husband and attempting to murder her as well, and, if so, why?
Like the other Daly stories I've read so far, it's a nice meandering story. Gamadge is an interesting character, wealthy enough to be able to finance his investigations and with many acquaintances that he can use for sources of information. His wife is a nice assistant to his work and the way Daly moves her stories along keeps you interested. I guess it could be called a cozy mystery, but it is also an intelligent and enjoyable mystery. I will continue to search for Daly's books. She wrote 16 between 1940 and 1951 and I've read only 3 so far. Lots of enjoyment ahead for me. (3.5 stars)

Another Cop book next, the 15th Roderick Alleyn mystery by Ngaio Marsh, .

[Bill]

Cop Hater is the first 87th Precinct mystery by Ed McBain. I'd only really started to get interested in McBain's stories (this one was initially published 1956) and I finally found a copy of the 1st book, this past month. It was with anticipation that I started to read it a week ago.
What a great, entertaining story! It's a simple story that reminds me of the best cop TV shows; Law and Order, Dragnet. A police detective is murdered by being shot in the back. It starts a major investigation by the detectives of his precinct, the 87th Precinct. The story is methodical, there are nice explanations of forensic techniques and other police procedures and you get into the lives of the police detectives taking a major role in the particular investigation.
For a relatively simple, short story, a great deal happens and lots of excellent, interesting detail is provided.
I enjoyed everything about this initial 87th Precinct story and I have #2, The Mugger, teed up for my follow-on read. Even though it might not be profound or offer deep philosophical ideas, it presents an excellent look at how the police act in an investigation and is told in a tidy, entertaining way and was totally enjoyable. (5 stars)

Starting the 2nd 87th Precinct book next, The Mugger by Ed McBain

[Skye]

Thanks, Bill! BTW, I love Law and Order and still watch it.

[Bill]

Skye wrote: "Thanks, Bill! BTW, I love Law and Order and still watch it."

My wife has probably seen every episode 4 or 5 times.

[Skye]

Bill, there is something extremely moral about this show; it really gives one a sense of 'justice.'

[Bill]

The Mugger is the 2nd book in the 87th Precinct series by American writer, Ed McBain. I've now read the first two of the series in pretty quick succession and I'm kind of hooked. The premise is simple; the cops of the 87th Precinct try to solve cases in their area.
The scenario for the 2nd book is a series of muggings in the precinct, with the latest involving the death of the female victim. At the same time, uniformed officer Bert Kling is asked by a childhood friend to try and get his sister-in-law to tell what she is up to and to advise her to be careful. She is the latest victim of the mugger.
The book is a police procedural in its truest form. So far, different cops have been involved in working the case. The main cop from book 1 is, in fact, on his honeymoon. You have Kling trying to solve the murder, working mostly during his off-time, and also trying to develop a relationship with a witness he has questioned. You also have Havilland and Willis from the first book following their own channels of investigation and also woman constable, Eileen Burke, walking the streets at night trying to lure out the mugger.
The book moves nicely between the various police investigators, even touching neatly with the forensic investigation. It's an enjoyable read and a very entertaining story. The Pusher is the 3rd book. I'll have to get a copy.

Next in line from my 'Cop' challenge is the 4th Detective Erlendur of Iceland mystery, Silence of the Grave by Arnaldur Indriðason.

[Skye]

Thanks, Bill, it's on my TBR list and wasn't this a television series?

[Bill]

Skye wrote: "Thanks, Bill, it's on my TBR list and wasn't this a television series?"

You may be right. I'm not sure.

[Thomas]

It was a tv series with Robert Lansing, 1961-62.

[Skye]

I remember it: I was a little girl but my parents watched it, Thomas.

[Bill]

I enjoy the Chief Inspector Alleyn mysteries very much. The series, by Ngaio Marsh is right there with other classic mystery series; like those by Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers and Elizabeth Daly, amongst others. I've read 7 or 8 of the Alleyn books and they get better with each new story. A Wreath for Rivera, also written under the title (Swing Brother Swing) is the 15th Alleyn story. I'm reading it out of sequence as I've followed them in order for the most part, but it doesn't take away any of the enjoyment by reading this one now.
There are some details of Alleyn's private life with Agatha Troy that seem to have progressed but they don't play major parts in the story. We have here the story of the family of the Marquis of Pastern and Baggott, a strange and eccentric individual, heading to watch him play in a jazz band; one of his whims. There is a murder that takes place; one which Alleyn actually witnesses as he and Troy are also at the club.
The murder investigation, lead by Alleyn and his resolute and steady team; his right-hand man, Detective Inspector Fox and the others, is a methodical process and enjoyable to follow. Alleyn is the main character but Ngaio Marsh also provides a voice to Carlisle 'Lisle' Wayne, Lord Pastern's niece, who I liked very much.
It's a quirky story; the dialogue between Alleyn and Fox is excellent. They are obviously well-used to each other and have an excellent rapport. Lord Pastern is definitely eccentric and his family also have unique characteristics. The mystery is interesting, but at times, not as important as the development of the story, the investigation and the interactions between the characters. The ending was ultimately satisfying and I liked how it was resolved. As always, I enjoy this series very much and look forward to my next one. (3.5 stars)

[Skye]

Bill, great review and on my TBR ( book one). Thanks.

[Bill]

Skye wrote: "Bill, great review and on my TBR ( book one). Thanks."

Thank you. It's a great series.

[Skye]

She looks very interesting and of course, I am familiar with her, but have never read a thing she wrote.
You and Nancy have arresting challenges.

[Bill]

I think S is for Silence by Sue Grafton was a bit of a return to form for Grafton. While I enjoyed the previous three books; P, Q and R, I just thought they were ok. S was so much better.
The story is a cold case. Kinsey is hired by Daisy Sullivan to find her mother, Violet, who disappeared when Daisy was a child, 35 years previously. Kinsey doesn't want to take the case as she feels it's a waste of her time and Daisy's money. But Daisy is persuasive and gets Kinsey to accept the job for 5 days. Thus begins her investigation into Violet's life and the possible reasons she disappeared, or was she murdered? The story is presented in an interesting style; alternating between present day, where Kinsey interviews people who still live in the area and who knew Violet, and then presenting the final days of Violet's life in Serena Station.
There was so much to enjoy about this latest Kinsey case. It builds nicely, the plot is interesting, the characters are interesting and there is a tension that slowly develops as Kinsey seems to be getting close to a solution. I enjoyed S very much and hope the next, T is for Trespass is as good. (4 stars)

Next in line in my Sleuth category is The Case of the Man Who Died Laughing by Tarquin Hall. This is the 2nd book in the Vish Puri series.

[Skye]

We are on the same page, with that, Bill; I felt that she actually hired ghost writers for the three books P, Q and R. I now have U but I am reading two other books ( one by Parker) and I work full time. I liked S is Silence.

[Merissa]

S was an excellent story. I thoroughly enjoyed it myself! Listened to the audio of X. One of my least favorites. She must be under pressure to finish out the alphabet and deadlines can make it hard to be creative.

[Alan]

Having tried my hand at writing a few light, horror stories, I rather like that TV show "I Zombie." Has anyone else seen it, and what do you think of it? Alan

[SherryRose]

I love izombie. I thought it woud be a generic zombie show but every episode is a mystery. It's a fun show.

[Bill]

Alan wrote: "Having tried my hand at writing a few light, horror stories, I rather like that TV show "I Zombie." Has anyone else seen it, and what do you think of it? Alan"

I've only seen a couple of episodes but I did enjoy. Just too much to watch... lol

Merissa wrote: "S was an excellent story. I thoroughly enjoyed it myself! Listened to the audio of X. One of my least favorites. She must be under pressure to finish out the alphabet and deadlines can make it hard..."

I've still got a little way to go before I reach X, but I can understand your point. All in all I've enjoyed the series very much.

[Bill]

Silence of the Grave by Arnaldur Indriðason is the second Inspector Erelendur mystery that I've tried. Set in Reykjavik, Iceland, it is definitely a grim old story. It's a cold case; a body is found in an excavation and Erlendur and his detectives, Elinburg and Sigurdur Oli begin an investigation into the identity of the skeleton, which they figure has been in place since the 1950's. The engage the support of an archaeologist to help ascertain the identity of the bones and when it was buried.
Interspersed with this investigation we go back in history and follow the domestic abuse of a family by their awful father. This is a terribly grim and upsetting part of the story. As well, Erlendur must try and cope with the coma his daughter is in, visiting at the hospital and trying to cope with their feelings for each other and with his own personalities difficulties.
The story moves along nicely with the investigators checking various possibilities, while the story from the past progresses nicely. It did end with a bit of a surprise which was very nice. I enjoyed the story and the mystery but it was a bit dark and depressing for my taste. Still, I think I'll continue with the series and see how the various relationships progress. (3.5 stars)

Moving down to Oz for my next cop mystery, the 2nd Inspector Challis mystery, Kittyhawk Down by Garry Disher

[Skye]

Bill wrote: "Alan wrote: "Having tried my hand at writing a few light, horror stories, I rather like that TV show "I Zombie." Has anyone else seen it, and what do you think of it? Alan"

I've only seen a couple..."

I just received U is for Undertow, and yes, I liked S is for Silence.

[Skye]

Bill, I think I will not try to read Silence of the Grave; it sounds disturbing.

[Bill]

It's not all that graphic, but it is a grim story at times.

[Skye]

Thank you, Bill, I am, however, reading Night Passage thanks to you and dear Thomas.

[Bill]

Skye wrote: "Thank you, Bill, I am, however, reading Night Passage thanks to you and dear Thomas."

I'm looking forward to Night Passage. Hope you are enjoying.

[Skye]

It's wonderful, Bill, and I know I will wind up reading all the Jesse Stone books as well as the Sunny Randall series.

[Thomas]

Skye, I'm glad that you like both series. Both my wife and I read all of Parker's books.

[Skye]

I am half through Night Passage, but the Sunny Randall series sound great----My daughter's name is Sunny.

[Bill]

I've enjoyed the Inspector Maigret mysteries I've read so far. Maigret in Exile by Georges Simenon, originally published in 1942, finds the irrepressible inspector banished from Paris to a small coastal town, for some unknown reason. An elderly woman shows up at his office and tells him that there is a body at her neighbour's house in a nearby town.
In his meandering way, Maigret begins his investigation. There seems to be no particular reason for what he is doing, but in his way, he slowly gathers the inspiration to solve the crime.
Maigret relies more on instinct than facts in working through the crime. There are many interesting characters in the story, especially the neighbour, Didine, and her husband, who seem to know everything that goes on in the village. Maigret is a grumpy soul but also very intuitive. As he investigates he pretty well has everything sorted out but seems also to fly by the seat of his pants. It's interesting how he works through things, basically keeping things to himself until he comes to his resolution. An enjoyable series and story. (3.5 stars)

Another Maigret on slot next, this time the 2nd Maigret story, Maigret Meets a Milord

[Bill]

Kittyhawk Down is the 2nd book in the Inspector Hal Challis Australian police series by Garry Disher. I've enjoyed both immensely. It's a simple premise really, following the investigation of a variety of crimes by the Australian police of the Mornington Peninsula Police Force. The Criminal Investigation Bureau is led by Homicide Squad Inspector Hal Challis, in which he is assisted by Sgts Ellen Destry and Scobie Sutton. In this story we also follow to uniformed cops, John Tankard and Pam Murphy.
There are various crimes being investigated; the disappearance of a two-year old baby, the discovery of a dead body that washed ashore and over the course of the story, various murders. You follow the cops and also various of the suspects and other characters, including Challis' girlfriend, reporter Tessa Klein. Each cop has their own problems which makes them human and likable. The progression of the case, the various suspects and the community in which the story takes place makes it even more interesting. It's not a perfect story by any means, but then again, neither is life.
I just found everything about this story enjoyable and refreshing and I liked how the crimes were eventually worked out. All in all it was as satisfying as the first book, The Dragon Man. (5 stars)

Heading back to England for my next foray into the Cop stories with the 1st Inspector George Gently story. I've read one previously, but I wanted to get into them from the beginning now, so by Alan Hunter is next.

[Skye]

Thanks, Bill; I am enjoying your challenge very much.

[Bill]

Thanks, Skye. I am as well.. :)

[Skye]

I know you are, Bill.