Mystery of Magic…
When I saw Now You See It available for review, I immediately requested it. In truth, I’ve always been intrigued by the legend that is Houdini, and I was excited to see a mystery novel that featured something pertaining to the master escape artist. I think there are many who are similarly intrigued by Houdini, and what’s not to find interesting? He’s kind of like the Howard Hughes of the magician world…
For those who are unaware, Houdini was much more than just a master escape artist. He initially dabbled in card tricks at museums, and even the circus, before finding his actual performance calling. In later years, he was also an actor, a film producer, an aviator and an author. Toward the end of his life, he focused on debunking fraudulent mediums and psychics only to die on Halloween in 1926; aged fifty-two.
Fast-forward to a time near the present day; location: North Carolina. This is where Now You See It begins. While Houdini’s will stated that “all of his effects should be burned upon his brother Hardeen’s death,” that request was not carried out. Because of this, a set of twins who collected magic memorabilia found, and purchased, a box that had previously belonged to none other than the illustrious Harry Houdini. Unfortunately, that box is now missing.
Private Detective Randall is called in to locate this treasure. However, his investigation leads him on a frustrating chase around the countryside; turning up pesky things like a dead body and countless additional possible suspects. While the good detective is hunting for Houdini’s box, and the culprit behind the shocking murder, he’s also side-tracked by several other things. Find a missing diamond bracelet for a wealthy socialite and … somehow keep the peace between his various housemates.
At the end of the day, will Randall be able to solve the murder; returning the missing items to their separate owners? Guess you will need to read Now You See It for yourself if you want those questions answered.
In summary, I found Now You See It to be a fun and intriguing read. Author Jane Tesh writes with a unique intensity and style. She has successfully written a solid mystery with a multitude of ‘who done it?’ suspects. Reading Now You See It was like playing an adventuresome game of Clue with good, but rather eccentric, friends. A great read for anyone who enjoys the mystery genre…