cover image THE SCEPTRED ISLE CLUB

THE SCEPTRED ISLE CLUB

Brent Monahan, . . St. Martin's Minotaur, $24.95 (288pp) ISBN 978-0-312-28803-7

Sheriff John Le Brun of Brunswick, Ga., who debuted in The Jekyl Island Club (2000), mingles with another club of powerful men in a mystery that brings a welcome Southern touch to the British historical. Retired at last, the 58-year-old Civil War veteran takes a trip in 1905 to London, where he hopes to meet some of the best minds in the "hub of the learned world." In his first adventure, the largely self-educated Le Brun rubbed shoulders with such financial giants of the day as Joseph Pulitzer and J.P. Morgan. Here he tests his mettle against a ruthless killer and matches wits with Scotland Yard and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in an effort to stop the slaughter. Le Brun happens to be a guest at the posh Sceptred Isle Club when two members of Parliament are shot dead in the gambling room. But for a chance stroke, his host, Trent Godwin, might have been among the victims. Thanks to his reputation as a crime-solver and a good word from Doyle, the American is able to perform a semi-official role in the investigation. Godwin's beautiful stepdaughter, Veronica, a very forward and forward-thinking young lady, provides a surprising romantic foil. Le Brun's quiet doggedness and resourcefulness serve him well as he plays his cards close to the vest while seeming to share with his British counterparts. Anne Perry fans may not know what to think of this unusual Southern detective holding court in gas-lit London, but others are sure to find this well-crafted and entertaining tale just their cup of tea. (June 17)

Forecast:Sherlock Holmes fans will be drawn by Doyle's presence, though they won't find a whole lot to cheer. Monahan is also the author of The Bell Witch: An American Haunting.