Too Soon Dead: An Alexander Brass Mystery 1

Michael Kurland's TOO SOON DEAD recreates the atmosphere and ambiance of the great "Golden Age" mystery novels of the 1920's and 1930's. His character, Alexander Brass, ranks up there with Philo Vance and Thatcher Colt of that period and is reminicent of the early Ellery Queen novels.For afficianados of that period, this book is highly recommended. I cannot wait for more adventures of Brass and his crew.

In 1935 New York City, Alexander Brass is the star columnist of "Brass Tacks", a syndicated daily column that provides insight into the nightlife, and the movers and shakers of Manhattan. In March, a nameless man provides Brass with pictures of several important people engaged in sexual activities. Brass decides to have the man followed, but the tail is killed with his body found in the office of an anti-Nazi group located in the suburbs. ...... Brass, his assistant Morgan DeWitt (who tells the story), and his research assistant Gloria Adams start to investigate the case. As the follow the trail through a US Senator (whose face is on one of the photos) and other famous historical personage, the trio get closer to the truth and realize that this case is more than a simple game of blackmailing the rich and famous. However, in spite of freedom of the press and their credentials, if the newspaper trio do not break this case wide open soon, they may become the next victims of a deadly conspiracy. ...... Michael Kurland writes a brilliant period piece that fans of the classic thirties mysteries will simple devour. The inclusion of famous people from out of the history books such as W.C. Fields adds a humorous but authentic touch to a fabulous who-done-it. The lead threesome are all unique and lovable, but TOO SOON DEAD makes for a great reading experience because of its thirties decor. Hopefully, there will be more "Brass Tacks" novels in the future. ......Harriet Klausner