But Not for Me is a well written debut historical mystery series starter by Allison A. Davis. Released 17th Sept 2024, it's 362 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats.
This is an unflinching, realistically told, historically accurate noir mystery set in San Francisco of 1958. Told around a framework of two women, a white lawyer, fighting an uphill battle to prove herself every day who finds release and fulfillment as a jazz musician in the jazz club owned and run by the second woman who is black, resilient, and tough. They're often uneasy allies.
The book is full of the corruption, racism, sexism, and racial tensions of the time period, especially against the backdrop of gentrification, forced relocation, and police/government corruption. It's quite difficult to read in places; the author doesn't flinch from writing directly and openly about the rot and criminal exploitation of those in power against pretty much anyone who wasn't white and male.
The denouement and resolution are self contained in this novel, but there are open hints at a continuing story. The ending was as expected, but still frustrating. Excellently well written throughout.
Four and a half stars. Well worth a read, especially for fans of historical noir. Not derivative at all, but fans of Chandler, James M. Cain, Dorothy Hughes et. al. will find something to enjoy here. High praise, indeed. Quite astounding that it's apparently a debut effort.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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