Reviews

Blanche on the Lam by Barbara Neely

harymouck's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Fun and entertaining,  but also gave me a lot to think about.  Blanche has quickly become one of my favorite mystery protagonists.  She engages not just in the mystery at hand, but the real, human dynamics at play. She is cautious with her heart, but when she meets a worthy recipient,  loves quickly and with a real understanding of them. I like to think (or at least I hope) I would qualify.  

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Death, Classism, Violence, Ableism, Grief, Murder, and Racism

mznayluv's review against another edition

dark mysterious tense

4.0

holdenkillfield's review

4.0

This was a very sharp and nuanced story that not only has a murder mystery to solve, but seamlessly weaves the social commentary of race, gender, and class. Blanche White is a delightful sleuth to follow along with on this complex unveiling of the murderer. The story was very character-driven and took its time to deliver a reveal that was amusing as was frightening. I will continue to the second book right away as Blanche White is a very interesting character that was very enjoyable to read.

maddiepalmer443's review against another edition

challenging funny mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

sowebeaton's review against another edition

dark inspiring mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

ohno_joreads's review against another edition

adventurous dark funny mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

agemme10's review against another edition

emotional mysterious tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

blairlynn's review against another edition

adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

xsleepyshadows's review

3.0

Barbara is an activist so her writing is very issue oriented. She takes on racism, sexism, and classism all in this writing through our witty and wise character Blanche.
This was a good mystery, it has a nice build and you really get into Blanche's character. She's great and I hear the series only gets better from here!

Great read, it's been on my radar for a while and it was worth it!

efrance's review against another edition

hopeful mysterious reflective sad slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Slow-burn murder mystery where the detective is a smart, savvy 40-year-old black domestic worker. Story deals with the realities of class and racism, but main antagonist also gets a satisfying comeuppance. Writing could inspire you to clean your house and cook a delicious meal.