Reviews

Jazz para el Asesino del Hacha by Mariano Antolín Rato, Ray Celestin

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rosieclaverton's review against another edition

3.0

The Axeman's Jazz is based on the true story of a serial killer in 1919, weaving together an intricate and fascinating picture of post-war, pre-prohibition, Mafia-influenced and Jazz-soaked New Orleans.

The multiple protagonists are all unlikely detectives, even the actual police officer with his taboo personal life, the ex-cop Mafioso, and the first black female Pinkerton (who's mates with one Lewis Armstrong).

I enjoyed the characters a great deal and loved getting to know them. Unfortunately, I was forced to take a break between several big reveals and the final pages, and the tension dropped off for me - however, I think that was a personal mistake rather than a reflection of the book.

I am very much looking forward to the Chicago-set sequel featuring Mister Alphonse Capone.

mikecarter161's review against another edition

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mysterious tense fast-paced

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

4.0

abbslemmen's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.5

maxamillion125's review against another edition

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dark mysterious slow-paced

3.0

nicjohnston's review against another edition

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4.0

A hugely enjoyable thriller which has been sitting in my TBR pipe since I saw the author at a debut author event when the book was released. Deeply atmospheric and rich in both setting and characterisations. My only slight irk is that it is a little flabby and unnecessarily complex in the final third. Overall a 4.5*.