Book Review: The Bastard is Dead

While I find the title a little odd (it does fit with the story, it just seems like an odd book title), The Bastard is Dead is an interesting variation on the cozy mystery genre (I think it’s great that there’s a male lead!)

Paul Burke is a former pro-cyclist living an okay functional life in the French Riviera when a few different events in his provincial French town force him to start making some changes: it’s time for the Tour de France, his career as a blogger starts getting more attention, real estate developments are threatening the serene coast line, a neighbor is struggling with aging, a beautiful woman enters his life, and his old coach dies mysteriously.

There’s a lot going on, but the pace of the story is inconsistent–some parts move quickly and keep you guessing, others are slower and a bit of a struggle to keep reading. There are similar issues with the characters–some are very well-developed (and likable), while others (and their role in the mystery’s outcome) are insufficient.

Overall, though, Paul is a very likable and well-written character, the descriptions of life in the Riviera are enticing, and the mystery is intriguing (though the ending does feel rushed).

If you enjoy cycling, the French Riviera, and interesting mysteries, you’ll enjoy The Bastard is Dead.

Note from Jen: Since posting this review four years ago, I’ve also read the second book in the Paul Burke mystery series and I still enoy reading about Paul and his experiences investigating nearby murders. It’s an enjoyable series.

*I was given a version of this book for free in exchange for an honest book review.