This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
D.R. Ransdell writes from the heart of the mariachi world where men cry over lost love and women exact revenge! Her protagonist is a violinist, but Andy Veracruz spends time getting himself out of trouble rather than learning new songs. In Andy’s fourth adventure, Substitute Soloist, he starts performing with an orchestra. Although he assumed that the only difficult aspect of his new job would be the 32nd notes, he soon finds that the classical world is not as classy as he expected. www.dr-ransdell.com
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Substitute Soloist by DR Ransdell is the fourth book in the Andy Veracruz Mystery series. Andy has a new job and he's certain he may have gotten in over his head. He's faked his way through several passages and the other musicians' instruments cost more than he makes. As if this wasn't bad enough, during his first concert a board member dies and a violinist takes off. Everyone talks about Liza being difficult but Andy has a hard time believing she'd commit murder. So when Andy is asked to locate her, he finds himself involved in another mystery that may get him in over his head.
The mystery revolves around Liza and her mysterious background which is the focus of Andy's investigation as he delves into finding answers. Every new layer he opens up gives another aspect of Liza's life which includes the connection between the murder and her past. Andy and the conductor Moraes have an interesting relationship as he's the reason Andy is traveling to various places in pursuit of Liza. Their dynamic is filled with humor but also a real connection as the two bond throughout the story. Andy's agreement to continuously help Moraes creates friction with Rachel who doesn't necessarily approve. Their relationship is rooted in a deep bond of friendship as they're completely honest with each other about their feelings while also giving a great deal of support.
One facet of the story revolves around Andy feeling a little out of place among the other musicians as their instruments are expensive and he doesn't quite know all the music. This isn't his only problem for long when Andy's drawn into investigating a murder. DR Ransdell writes a layered mystery with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing but also some heart as Andy gets to know various people tied to the mystery and comes to understand their roles. Ransdell offers a range of interesting characters and dynamics as Andy's latest mystery takes him on this new journey. Substitute Soloist is an ideal read for those who love complex mysteries, musical connections, and interesting characters.
