Private Investigator Brig Ellis is on his way to spread the ashes of a friend with whom he once soldiered. His nostalgic journey soon becomes a nightmare, however, when hideous murders occur and Ellis is labeled the prime suspect. The more information that comes to light, the more it looks as if the killings might have something to do with a military mission that went off the rails years ago. Soon, Ellis is on the run, trying to solve the mystery and stay out of the authorities’ clutches.
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While the police are hot on his trail, his pursuit of the real killers takes Ellis not only across the country but deep into the past as well. What’s the connection between the mission that resulted in a night he’ll never be able to forget and the horror happening around him now? Could any of his former squad mates be involved? Are they even still alive? And if so, for how long? The clock is ticking and the bodies are falling as Ellis searches for answers.
Rating
Mr. Cost definitely did his research for this novel (in fact comes close to repeating himself too much), but it’s never a dry story. There’s plenty of action between all the main characters, with references to the racial and economic bases for it. The fictional characters are realistic and touch the heart. I would say my only complaint was the use of italics for any word of dialogue that wasn’t English. Just tell me a woman has adopted a Southern drawl, and I’ll hear it whenever she says “I am”. Ditto, Scottish brogue and common French terms. The constant use of italics to emphasize such words was like tripping on an uneven sidewalk and having to catch myself. But it wasn’t on every page, and he never stooped to italicizing Black American patois, thank heaven, a condescending tactic I’ve seen in other books. An enjoyable way to learn about a region and portion of history that I was unfamiliar with.
Matt Cost has reached a peak in his writing career that few others have ever accomplished. Have followed him over the years of fictional history and mystery books he has written and enjoyed the outstanding writing skills he has shown. Recently completed his Mainely Money book, 3rd book in the series, and greatly enjoyed the entire series. Will be getting the 4th book in the series as soon as it is released. “Love in a time of Hate” is a transition from Matt Cost’s mystery series, to fictional history, and is one of the best books I have read in many years. The perspective of life in New Orleans during the 1860-1870’s period gives the insight necessary to better understand our current social issues, while at the same time allowing the reader to engage in a fascinating and intriguing mystery story that will keep one guessing until the end of the book.
I’ve always loved New Orleans, and I was fascinated by this historical novel placed in the time period right after the Civil War when Black people had been freed but were far from equal. The fight against injustice is vividly portrayed and personalized. Oh, and did I mention that there’s voodoo and early jazz? Great characters, great story, great atmosphere. Highly recommended.
