Ukulele of Death

Ukulele of Death is the first book in a new SF(ish) mystery series by pseudonymous author E.J. Copperman. Released 2nd May 2023 by Severn House, it's 284 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.

This is a tongue in cheek lightly humorous mystery opener with a brother/sister pair of private investigators who aren't entirely human, but not entirely robot either. There are quirky aspects which are never really explored, such as them having to plug in to recharge occasionally (but not consistently). There's also endless repartee around their physical appearance, Fran is remarkably tall, and the author never lets an opportunity pass to comment on it.

The plot and investigative puzzles are pretty well constructed and the writing is entertaining and lighthearted. The humor will be hit or miss for most readers. I found it repetitive and trying in places. I did love the premise of semi-human super intelligent created protagonists and thought the background and world building for the overarching evil-shadow-corporation back-story was intriguingly done. 

Four stars. Odd but eminently readable; tries too hard to be funny in some places. Credible plot and well executed. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes