Heather’s Bookshelf: Odette’s: A Quality Men’s Club
Author: Bridget Finnegan
Released: 03/15/21
Genre: Historical Fiction/Mystery
“The bell rings for dinner and they step down the stairs of the caravan and approach a long table with twenty of the strangest people Eve and Tulip have ever seen. A mixture from all over the world, wearing strange costumes.””
“Odette’s” introduces Jessamyn Jakes, an investigator who escaped from a life as a prostitute with her now adopted daughter, Sarah, and her son, Jonah. It’s been five years since Jessamyn left Odette’s house of prostitution but her past comes back to haunt her as her former employer seeks her help in finding Suzanne, a prostitute still working for Odette who also happens to be Jessamyn’s former love interest.
Jessamyn takes the case and finds herself drawn into a murder mystery and a treasure hunt as she investigates. Her inquiries result in Jessamyn meeting and then delving into the lives (and secrets) of many interesting strangers and familiar faces. Her strong will and presence propel her forward in her investigation but there are those around her who do not want her to succeed.
Unfortunately, the case also draws unwanted attention for both herself and her adopted daughter. They find themselves both in danger, having to fight to keep the lives they have built. They must also try to keep their pasts behind them if they are going survive what is ahead.
Trigger Warning: prostitution, adult language, sexual situations, slavery, stories of rape/attempted rape
Overall, I enjoyed this story. The historical setting is interesting, but the characters really make the tale. Jessamyn and Sarah are both endearing and detailed characters who drew me in and kept me wanting to know more about them. Their backgrounds and relationships take center stage and add to the depth and interest associated with their characters. I also enjoyed the development of many of the ancillary characters including Tulip and Bart. The not-so-likeable characters were truly disgusting and hateful- exactly what I want a bad guy to be. I also liked the ending, as it tied everything up and resolved the mysteries. The story felt absolutely complete by the end, but I could also see a sequel or two being made of Jessamyn’s future investigations.
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
OVERALL REVIEW:
A murder mystery wrapped in a historical setting with intriguing and endearing characters
Want to learn more about the author?
Check out my interview with Bridget Finnegan
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Find it for purchase here and Kindle Unlimited
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