Transitory (Micky Knight Mystery, #11)

by J M Redmann

[annieb123]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

Transitory is a very well written PI noir mystery and the 11th Micky Knight novel by J.M. Redmann. Released 12th Sept 2023 by Boldwood Books, it's 256 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. 

It's a long running and extremely well plotted series featuring a competent, intelligent, and intrepid PI in her late 40s, well established and ethical. In some ways the style and realism remind me of Sara Paretsky's excellent Warshawski novels, this series featuring New Orleans and Paretsky's featuring Chicago. The settings are well rendered and indelibly woven into the story. 

Although it's the 11th book in the series (there are also short fiction pieces collected in anthology form as well), it works perfectly well as a standalone read. 

The story contains several different disparate threads which intertwine into an overarching mystery. It's an intricate plot, but not overly complex or difficult. The author does a good job of describing the often stark daily realities of LGBTQIA+ people, especially PoC, where they intersect with the official police and government. As such, much of the book is quite distressing and sad. Many (most?) of the characters are gay and/or trans, and generally speaking, there's a distinct contrast with the straight characters. There's a lot of discussion about wealth and class disparity and racism in addition. Despite that, this is a phenomenally well written book, with a satisfying denouement and resolution. 

With 11 books and some shorter fiction pieces in the series, it would be an excellent choice for public library acquisition, or a long binge/buddy read.

Four and a half stars. Excellent. Recommended for fans of PI noir.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.