Reviews

Blanche on the Lam by Barbara Neely

Only show reviews with written explanations

notartgarfunkel's review against another edition

Go to review page

mysterious reflective 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? Yes

4.5

edshara's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

This was exactly what I was expecting and I loved it. Blanche is sassy, funny, caring and with the exception of going on the run, she's smart too.

Blanche's profession doing day work, while necessary, is one that is usually looked down upon. I loved the fact that Blanche was unashamed of her job and I'm glad that the author chose to specifically highlight that. Blanche had very different relationships with her mom and her best friend, however, I liked how they both rallied to help her when she really needed it.

The writing style immediately draws you into the story. The mystery was well developed and had many layers. This is one of those books that allows you to try and figure things out or just go along for the ride and see how it is all going to unfold. I enjoyed being able to do a bit of both.

The author did choose to use the "R" word to refer to a character that has a form of Down's Syndrome. Even though, I think she attempted to use it more as a description(by a character who lacked knowledge and education about disabilites) and not a slur, its still an insensitive term and dates the book. It did however, also end up being a lesson learned for Blanche, because she did question the word and its usage later in the book. Other than that I think the character was positively represented. Blanche was able to see him as more than just his disability and treated him as such. I listened to the audiobook, while following along in the physical copy, and the audiobook omits the usage of that word in those instances. The audiobook by itself was really good and made the reading experience better.

I do plan to continue the series and I'm curious to see if Barbara Neely is going to expand on certain aspects of Blanche's past that were mentioned in the book. Really glad to have found what appears to be a great mystery series featuring an African-American woman as the main protagonist. I can't wait to see what Blanche is up to next.

harymouck's review

Go to review page

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.

Content Warnings

mznayluv's review

Go to review page

dark mysterious tense

4.0

holdenkillfield's review against another edition

Go to review page

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.