The William Powell and Myrna Loy Murder Case

If you're a film lover and a fan of Myrna Loy and William Powell, you will definitely get a kick out of this book. The way this book works is, George Baxt writes a mystery that takes place in Old Hollywood, and the two screen gems are the main proponents of the story. I enjoyed the murder case as the twist was unexpected, but most of all I loved the feeling of being back in time with all these real people. For instance, there is plenty of the banter between Powell and Loy, which was characteristic of their relationship. The gossip is definitely there too, as notorious columnist Louella Parsons never fails to arrive on the scene. Though largely fictional, Baxt skillfully captures the screen personas of each of the stars - which may or may not be identical to the character off screen - and weaves a tale that is perhaps best described as a witty caricature of Hollywood's Golden Age.

Film buffs and mystery lovers will delight in this wonderful book. George Baxt has written a light mystery that will bring a smile to the face of many who remember fondly William Powell and Myrna Loy as Nick and Nora Charles. While some series only try to capitalize on a name from Hollywood's past to entice the reader, Baxt actually delivers the goods with both wit and sophistication. And while other series, even good ones such as Stuart Kaminsky's Toby Peters, have the star mainly in the background, Baxt has Powell and Loy front and center. This makes for a terric read. Baxt's regular characters in his series, cops Herb Villon and Jim Mallory, along with Herb's girlfriend and gossip underling of Louella Parsons, Hazel Dickson, have plenty to do also. They also have plenty of interaction with Powell and Loy, which makes the book special. This is a sweet and nostalgic ride through Hollywood of the 1930's. There is gossip and tidbits film fans will love and recognize as well as a fun mystery. Hollywood is buzzing and Louis B. Mayer is fuming when a former stock player at MGM named Audrey Manners gets word out that she needs money. Since she is now Claire Young, a rather famous madame with a black book full of Hollywood names, such a message can only lead to murder. When her assistant gets killed, it is up to Villon and the gang to get it solved. To Mayer's consternation, it is Powell and Loy in the news, however, as they are helping with the investigation. Powell is about to marry a sickly "Baby" (Jean Harlow) and Myrna is having marriage trouble as she and Powell get out word they are researching their next "Thin Man" film, giving them the excuse they need to help Villon. Hazel, of course, is delighted at the prospect of a juicy story. Herb, however, is more concerned for Claire, with whom he once was in love. There is nothing tawdry here despite the storyline, just good clean fun for fans. Powell and Loy discover it may have ties going all the way back to Paul Bern, Baby's former husband. Baxt really makes Powell and Loy come alive again and their friendship and fun exchanges are worthy of many "Thin Man" entries. While it is certainly light reading, that is exactly what it was intended to be. This is a fun and marvelous book for film lovers and those who enjoy a good mystery. An excellent read for a comfy chair and a big shade try. Give this one a try this summer and you'll find it hard to put down. Riveting the mystery may not be. But fun in the extreme it most definitely is.