I like a mystery series with a female investigator and a strong sense of place. Count me in for Sue Grafton’s A, B, C books set in a fictional version of Santa Barbara. I also enjoy Sara Paretsky’s stories set in Chicago. Books about smart women who know where they are really appeal to me.
I read the first f Laura Lippman’s Tess Monaghan series several years ago, Baltimore Blues, and immediately added her to my list. My method for dealing with these series is crude. I see a book in the library or at a book sale. I buy it and read it. Other than liking to begin at the beginning, I don’t insist on chronological order. So sometimes I wonder who these characters are and why everyone (in the book) seems to know them, while I don’t.
This brings me to Esskay the dog. In many of the books Tess has a rescue greyhound dog with an affectionate nature and an undiscriminating appetite. Actually dogs are useful in the investigating business — people talk to people with dogs. Where did this animal come from? She was not in Baltimore Blues. Now, thanks to a good connection on BookMooch, I have the second book in the series, Charm City. Here appears Esskay, and I like her very much.
I have to take her home… We’ll figure something out. If Spike wanted me to take care of this dog, there must be a reason.
Smugly now, the dog took her position in the back seat, insisting on standing, just as she had the first night Tess had taken her home. But this time, Esskay was more firmly rooted, holidng her stance on the turns. A week ago, a day ago, even five minutes ago, Tess had firmly believed dogs could not smile. Yet this one was practically leering in her delight.
Posted by SilverSeason 
