Reviews for Ambrose Bierce and the queen of spades

The average rating for Ambrose Bierce and the queen of spades based on 2 reviews is 3.5 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2020-04-03 00:00:00 Christopher Gray When Ambrose Bierce heard of the first Morton Street Slasher murder, he said, "It appears there is a fellow who dislikes women more than I do." I've never been much of a fan of using real historical figures in fictional situations, but "Bitter" Bierce's quirky, and acerbic personality makes for such a delightful character, it's easy to forgive Oakley Hall's decision to feature him in a series of mysteries. Hall was wise here not to make Bierce the narrator. Indeed, he spends much of the novel in the background as the older, wiser mentor to fledgling reporter, Tom Redmond. Redmond's naiveté makes a fine contrast to Bierce's cynical sophistication, occasionally making for drama, or at least spirited conversation. "My dear fellow, what did you expect?" Bierce said kindly. "You have read too many novels. They reinforce the preposterous view of the happy ending." "If nothing matters, why is it important to find out who murdered three whores?" I asked. "It is not important, it is only interesting," Bierce said. "It is a puzzle to be solved." In addition to the search for a twisted killer, there are hidden identities, secret societies, and old grudges. For me, all the minor plots served to drag the story down, though Bierce's appearances were always a highlight. This is one of those books that I really didn't like that much, but because of the fine writing, and unique look at American history, I feel it deserves four or more stars.

Review # 2 was written on 2020-02-26 00:00:00 J�rgen Alexander Lerbakk This book could have been a masterful thriller-historical novel, as its plot and twist are interesting, but it was executed in a very uninspired way. A serial killer + The California Gold Rush + the Southern Pacific Railway magnates.