Farewell, Conch Republic

I love mysteries but am often disappointed by mediocre writing -- that was not the case here! The characters were fascinating and the relationship between Dave, Roy, and Annabelle was moving. The plot was unusual as well.

This is the second outing for Annabelle Hardy, the hearing-impaired owner of Miami's largest corporate security firm. One of the company's clients is the Hemingway Museum in Key West. When a murder occurs on the museum's grounds, Annabelle takes on the investigation herself. This series by the pseudonymous Jackson is well written, Annabelle and her employees are well drawn, and the plots unusual. This is a good series for those preferring their mysteries cozy.

A vibrant setting in Key West, an intriguing plot (a murder which may have roots in events which occurred almost 400 years ago), kitsch and lore associated with Key West's literary icon Ernest Hemingway, a bit of danger, and fine writing combine to provide a great read. Jackson's characters are outstanding -- from deaf Annabelle to fashion-conscious Dave to squawking Marcel the parrot, these are people and a bird I like. This is a fine new entry in Jackson's FAREWELL series.