“The Bell in the Fog” is the second in the Andy Mills detective series by Lev A.C. Rosen. Set in 1952, it involves Andy in a blackmail case linked to his past in the navy and reunites him with James, a former lover, and Helen, a good friend from Navy days.
I really enjoyed this story. Andy is living above the Ruby, a club catering to gay men and women, and has found a family among the gay community after feeling isolated for so long. Many of the supporting characters that form that family are compelling - Elsie, the owner of the club; Lee, a female impersonator who eventually fills the role of “Girl Friday” for Andy; and Gene, the bartender of the club who seems fascinated with Andy.
Another aspect of this story is the historical component. The story is based on the “Lavender Scare” that occurred at the end of World War II. The military hunted down known (or suspected) homosexuals and proceeded to “out” them, thereby destroying their lives. As Andy travels around to the various clubs seeking the person who is blackmailing James, the author paints a vivid picture of the experience of being gay and closeted in the early 1950’s.
The mystery is well played against this backdrop and I was surprised by a couple of the twists within the story. When all was concluded, i found the most compelling aspect of the story to be the theme of family and community support. In the acknowledgements, the author mentions that even during times of persecution, gay people are able to find great love and support.
The book is a sequel to Lavender House, but can be read as a standalone. I have not yet read Lavender House and I had no trouble getting into the story. I recommend this book not only for those who are interested in gay themed books, but also those interested in history. The author cites some historical books he used as references while writing this book, which are excellent resources. I am already looking forward to the next Andy Mills book.
I really enjoyed this story. Andy is living above the Ruby, a club catering to gay men and women, and has found a family among the gay community after feeling isolated for so long. Many of the supporting characters that form that family are compelling - Elsie, the owner of the club; Lee, a female impersonator who eventually fills the role of “Girl Friday” for Andy; and Gene, the bartender of the club who seems fascinated with Andy.
Another aspect of this story is the historical component. The story is based on the “Lavender Scare” that occurred at the end of World War II. The military hunted down known (or suspected) homosexuals and proceeded to “out” them, thereby destroying their lives. As Andy travels around to the various clubs seeking the person who is blackmailing James, the author paints a vivid picture of the experience of being gay and closeted in the early 1950’s.
The mystery is well played against this backdrop and I was surprised by a couple of the twists within the story. When all was concluded, i found the most compelling aspect of the story to be the theme of family and community support. In the acknowledgements, the author mentions that even during times of persecution, gay people are able to find great love and support.
The book is a sequel to Lavender House, but can be read as a standalone. I have not yet read Lavender House and I had no trouble getting into the story. I recommend this book not only for those who are interested in gay themed books, but also those interested in history. The author cites some historical books he used as references while writing this book, which are excellent resources. I am already looking forward to the next Andy Mills book.