Crime through Time 2

If you want to pick up one anthology to represent some of the best writing in the historical mysteries genre, this is it. Better by far than the Mammoth books (although they are good bargains), and better than the first and third CRIME THROUGH TIME. Some of the stories that stuck in my mind were the first murder (in the Stone Age), and the chilling story of a young Venetian woman. Most of the stories stand very well on their own, and some might tempt you to read further works by their authors. Some of the authors I was already acquainted with, while others were completely new (and delightful surprises) to me.

I really enjoyed this book. I had read the first Crime Through Time book and I think this one is better because the settings and situations were more intriguing. One of my favorites is the delightful "Murder One" about the worlds first caveman murder. I also liked how there were segments of history not always focused on; such as the contribution of the chinese to the advancement of the railroad and the feelings of an Irish frontier woman. There is also a nice mix of main characters who are doing sleuthing for the first time. There was only one story that was obviously part of a series and not able to stand alone. I found it to be the exception however and not the rule.

I really enjoyed this sequel to "Crime through Time" more than the original. I thought the stories were much more insightful and interesting. My favorites were the first two stories;( especially "Murder One") for their wit and pacing. The collection of writers and story locations were mostly far removed from the first book as well. A delightful read!