(2009) Mama Rides Shotgun Acutely aware of the possibility of foul play from her last excursion as an amateur sleuth, Mace believes Bramble’s death was not from the heart attack his long-time physician, Doc Abel, contends. So it’s convenient that Bramble’s dysfunctional family – young widow, alcoholic son and fragile daughter – decide to continue on the Cracker Trail ride in his memory. So does Doc Abel, who’s approaching 80 at break-neck speed and not exactly the picture of health. The one note of implausibility in Mama Rides Shotgun is the sudden presence of the four mourners on the trail ride. I just don’t buy it. And since their presence is an important piece of the entire story, it’s more than peripheral. The plot of Mama Rides Shotgun also moves a tad slower than that of its predecessor, Mama Does Time, first in this series. Still, Deborah Sharp hasn’t lost her touch with developing interesting characters and her writing is as funny and “sharp” as ever. She even resurrects Carlos Martinez, Mace’s one-time love interest, who disappeared from the Himmarshee Police Department and returned to Miami at the end of Mama Does Time. Mace’s heart goes pitty-pat she spots her handsome hero astride a horse. But Mace is no simpering heroine and her romantic relationship with Carlos brings both electricity and humor into the story. By Diana. First published in Mystery News, August-September 2009 issue.
Mace Bauer and Mama (Rosalee Devereaux) are on Florida’s Cracker Trail annual ride. The weeklong, 120-mile ride from near Bradenton to Fort Pierce is a bonding event for mother and daughter – and their horses -- just before Mama embarks on another trip: down the aisle with husband number five. But just as the ride gets started, Mama’s high-school friend Lawton Bramble, who owns a ranch along the trail, dies while preparing Cow Hunter Chili for the hundred or so riders.
Rosalee Devereaux – “Mama” to her three grown daughters – was born on the 4th of July 62 years ago. But much-married Mama loses her independence after she’s thrown in jail. Police are suspicious when a man’s body is found in the trunk of her vintage Bonneville convertible – turquoise no less! The hunky Himmarshee FL detective, newly arrived from Miami, doesn’t realize that Mama has taught Sunday School to half the town – including police officers.
Deborah Sharp Reviews (2)
2008) Mama Does Time
When it’s obvious Detective Carlos Martinez believes he’s found the murderer in Mama, middle daughter Mason “Mace” Bauer takes charge to prove him wrong. Mace, our first-person narrator, is aided and abetted by her bullying older sister Madison “Maddie,” and baby sister Martin “Marty,” the family’s only shrinking violet.
The author’s surname – Sharp – is an apt adjective to describe her writing. Her characters crackle off the page. The energetic Mama is especially well written – I’m always happy to find non-stereotypical older characters -- those who are portrayed as something more than incontinent blue-hairs. Mama is ageless and effervescent.
I loved everything about this book, down to the cover art. Happily book two is in the works, scheduled for publication next July. Mama Does Time is a book to savor and recommend to friends. Spread the word!
By Diana. First published in the Cozy Library September 25, 2008. 