Harriet Klausner's Review Archive
In spite of Franklin Roosevelt's efforts in his first term of office, the Depression still grips the nation in 1937. Prohibition has been repealed leaving the Chicago mob quiet as they seek new sources of revenue. In that backdrop, vampire Jack Fleming, who attains his sustenance by drinking the blood of cows in the nearby stockyards, plans to make something of himself. He is building a classy nightclub, LADY CRYMSON, catering to the tastes of the elite for fine wine, food, and entertainment.
His efforts hit a snag when the construction crew finds a body hidden in the basement behind a wall. The remains is at least five years old with a horrified Jack wondering who could have so cruelly walled the victim inside that death prison? Jack, a reporter in his previous life and currently a partner with a detective, begins to investigate. With the help of his mortal girl friend, he starts with the dress leading to its designer, which in turn sends the duo to Jack's landlord, a powerful mob boss. However, Jack seems no closer as the road continues to twist and wind.
The latest vampire Tales, LADY CRYMSON, is a delightful mix of mystery and horror with characters speaking the vernacular of a 1930's gangster in a way that would make Cagney proud. The select people who know what species Jack is treat him with respect and friendship that allows the audience to forget he is a vampire. That augments the feel of an authentic environment and adds to Jack's appeal. P.N. Elrod has written another great novel containing a well designed who-done-it with a pinch of horror elements to spice up the plot.