What do you think?
Rate this book
Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses
Detective Marc Allen is ready to leave the Raleigh, North Carolina, Police Department. Two murders that happened on his watch have apparently been solved thanks to a suicide note confession written by a distraught father. But Allen isn't buying it. He's convinced that the man's adopted daughter, Teri Hickox, is the one responsible for the heinous crimes. With his personal life a muddle and his professional career unsettled he decides the best thing for him is a change of scenery. The detective, now in Colorado Springs, is working new cases and making new friends. One of those friends is Hannah Hunt who, after suffering a freak accident, finds herself only able to speak in song titles. Another is a mysterious drifter who lives out of an old Dodge van and goes by "the champ". But as Allen builds a new future, events unfold showing him that he can't escape his past.
305 pages, Paperback
Published January 21, 2022
2126 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
April 27, 2022
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
SONG GIRL: A Mystery in Two Verses by Keith Hirshland is an engaging character driven mystery/police procedural. The main protagonist as well as a few other characters are carried over from the previous book, The Flower Girl Murder, but because this story is in a new location with a new crime mystery, it is easily read as a standalone novel.
Detective Marc Allen is ready for a change in his life. He decides to move from Raleigh, NC to Colorado Springs. CO. He is working with new colleagues on new cases in the police department and he is also making new friends in his personal life.
At the same time, an old case from Raleigh which was supposedly solved with a suicide note becomes active again. Marc was never happy with the case resolution, and he seems to be right. The man left notes for his adopted daughter, and they suggest she is the real killer and when the Raleigh police look for her, they find she has disappeared.
Marc finds building his new future may only be possible if he can resolve his past.
This story is written with wonderful characters that are fully developed and woven together throughout the story. The reader is continually surprised by how each character’s past and revelations fit into the story and effect the present. Marc is trying to build a new life with his new puppy and friends. He is an intelligent and diligent detective that I really like. The secondary characters are all unique and bring not only intrigue, but humor to the story. The plot moves slowly at first as all the players’ histories and pieces of the puzzle are intertwined, but as the plot moves forward the pace picks up. The book was impossible to put down and delivers a big twist at the end.
I highly recommend this fascinating mystery.
SONG GIRL: A Mystery in Two Verses by Keith Hirshland is an engaging character driven mystery/police procedural. The main protagonist as well as a few other characters are carried over from the previous book, The Flower Girl Murder, but because this story is in a new location with a new crime mystery, it is easily read as a standalone novel.
Detective Marc Allen is ready for a change in his life. He decides to move from Raleigh, NC to Colorado Springs. CO. He is working with new colleagues on new cases in the police department and he is also making new friends in his personal life.
At the same time, an old case from Raleigh which was supposedly solved with a suicide note becomes active again. Marc was never happy with the case resolution, and he seems to be right. The man left notes for his adopted daughter, and they suggest she is the real killer and when the Raleigh police look for her, they find she has disappeared.
Marc finds building his new future may only be possible if he can resolve his past.
This story is written with wonderful characters that are fully developed and woven together throughout the story. The reader is continually surprised by how each character’s past and revelations fit into the story and effect the present. Marc is trying to build a new life with his new puppy and friends. He is an intelligent and diligent detective that I really like. The secondary characters are all unique and bring not only intrigue, but humor to the story. The plot moves slowly at first as all the players’ histories and pieces of the puzzle are intertwined, but as the plot moves forward the pace picks up. The book was impossible to put down and delivers a big twist at the end.
I highly recommend this fascinating mystery.
April 8, 2022
I was invited to join a book tour for this book. While I had no idea what a book tour was (and am still not clear on it), I love music and poetry, so it seemed like a good fit. I'm so glad I accepted! First, let me say that Keith Hirshland is an excellent writer! I come from a family of authors and tend to be fairly critical in my reading. I cannot praise his skills enough!
Then there was the story. Or storIES. At least, two of them come together in an unusual way, mostly centering around a detective in Colorado Springs. One of the characters becomes the "Song Girl", but I'll let you find out which one. After an accident, suddenly, everything that comes out of her mouth is song lyrics or titles. It was really fun. Perhaps best of all, though, the big twist at the end will come as a big surprise and tie a little bit more of the story together! I have already downloaded the prequel to this and wish I had read it first.
Then there was the story. Or storIES. At least, two of them come together in an unusual way, mostly centering around a detective in Colorado Springs. One of the characters becomes the "Song Girl", but I'll let you find out which one. After an accident, suddenly, everything that comes out of her mouth is song lyrics or titles. It was really fun. Perhaps best of all, though, the big twist at the end will come as a big surprise and tie a little bit more of the story together! I have already downloaded the prequel to this and wish I had read it first.
March 5, 2022
Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses by Keith Hirshland is has once again proven his raw talent in creating a fictional world in which one never wants to end. It is highly entertaining and quickly grabs one's attention. The main protagonist has issues that bubble over and leave the reader intrigued. Intense, emotionally grabbing, and visually detailed this novel is by far the best. Keith Hirshland has a way with words that paints the images of his scenes into my mind. I can see it all as though I am there witnessing it as it happens. I can feel what the characters are experiencing. The fear, loss, grief, understanding and so much more. Song Girl is an action-packed mystery that hooked me in real fast. Inside, I met so many characters. Each one a unique flavor to the story. The two that really stuck out to me were of course the detective Marc Allen who despite life's struggles still chases after his gut feeling. Something, bothers him, and he cannot let it go. Teri was the best evil female antagonist I have met. I loved the way she thought she could control everything and was better than everyone. But in the end, bad guys lose, and the good guys always win.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
April 22, 2022
A Mystery in Two Verses is my first read of Keith Hirshland’s collections. I would lie if I said I am not marveled by his ingenuity and remarkable ability to breathe life into a storyline. The interlink between song and poetry is fantastic. Keith does It so perfectly that you don’t get to realize the connection while you are on the story.
The real action starts at the wrong place, wrong time: a crime scene, then an evolving love story after Reg and now Mike run to the east. A meeting with Marc Alle, the protagonist, and Teri Hickox, the antagonist. The action never ends until you find yourself on the last pages of this excellent, action-based fictional writing.
Of course, finding the connection between Reg, Daisy, Teri, Hank, and detective Marc Allen is a mystery. Still, Keith Hirshland gives the reader enough time to synthesize and gain a complete picture of the happenings as the story unfolds. Not many stories have a female antagonist, but undoubtedly when we have one, ready yourself for a great show.
Teri Hickox puts detective Marc Alle to task. She does her role so perfectly. From intoxicating a harmless homeless person to chasing detective Marc Allen several miles just with the “intention of rubbing his nose in,” be sure at her mention, she sends the chills down the spine. What happened to the mystery surrounding her birth?
The story is intense and emotionally grabbing. I highly recommend it If you are into some intense action in the storyline.
The real action starts at the wrong place, wrong time: a crime scene, then an evolving love story after Reg and now Mike run to the east. A meeting with Marc Alle, the protagonist, and Teri Hickox, the antagonist. The action never ends until you find yourself on the last pages of this excellent, action-based fictional writing.
Of course, finding the connection between Reg, Daisy, Teri, Hank, and detective Marc Allen is a mystery. Still, Keith Hirshland gives the reader enough time to synthesize and gain a complete picture of the happenings as the story unfolds. Not many stories have a female antagonist, but undoubtedly when we have one, ready yourself for a great show.
Teri Hickox puts detective Marc Alle to task. She does her role so perfectly. From intoxicating a harmless homeless person to chasing detective Marc Allen several miles just with the “intention of rubbing his nose in,” be sure at her mention, she sends the chills down the spine. What happened to the mystery surrounding her birth?
The story is intense and emotionally grabbing. I highly recommend it If you are into some intense action in the storyline.
April 18, 2022
There is nothing better than having some gripping crime fiction blended with some mystery to keep your heart racing while you turn the pages late into the night, one such read which just fits perfectly is 'Song Girl: a Mystery in two verses'.
This outstanding masterpiece by Keith Hirshland revolves around the brilliant Detective Marc Allen who finds himself embroiled in a murder mystery involving two women whom he feels were murdered by Teri Hickox. However, this case takes a sharp turn when the adopted father of the alleged killer commits suicide leaving behind a note taking credit for the murder. Despite the doubts in Allen’s head he acknowledges the findings and believes it is now the right time to move away from Raleigh, North Carolina to Colorado Springs. Here he meets two new friends one was Hannah Hunt who, after suffering a freak accident finds herself only able to speak in song titles. The second one is a mysterious drifter who lived out of an old Dodge van and who went by the name Champ. Things begin to take a sharp turn when the past meets the future leaving Allen to unravel the deep mystery.
This is an incredibly well plotted twisty tale and one of the most strikingly inventive books I have read this year. Highly commendable!!
This outstanding masterpiece by Keith Hirshland revolves around the brilliant Detective Marc Allen who finds himself embroiled in a murder mystery involving two women whom he feels were murdered by Teri Hickox. However, this case takes a sharp turn when the adopted father of the alleged killer commits suicide leaving behind a note taking credit for the murder. Despite the doubts in Allen’s head he acknowledges the findings and believes it is now the right time to move away from Raleigh, North Carolina to Colorado Springs. Here he meets two new friends one was Hannah Hunt who, after suffering a freak accident finds herself only able to speak in song titles. The second one is a mysterious drifter who lived out of an old Dodge van and who went by the name Champ. Things begin to take a sharp turn when the past meets the future leaving Allen to unravel the deep mystery.
This is an incredibly well plotted twisty tale and one of the most strikingly inventive books I have read this year. Highly commendable!!
April 3, 2022
Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verse is a "sit on the edge of your seat", page turner that left me wanting to read more once I finished! Apparently, it is a part-sequel to "The Flower Girl Murder"; however, it can be read as a stand alone - which I did - and thoroughly enjoyed it! Well written, well thought-out character development and great storyline. Highly recommend!
May 6, 2022
This had everything that I love in a mystery novel:
• A good guy detective (in this case, the lead character, Detective Marc Allen)
• A well established, love-to-hate them villain (femme fatale Teri Hickox)
• Multiple POVS that create a full picture of every side of the story
• A fleshed-out atmosphere.
• A well-written mystery that is just enough to keep me guessing.
Keith Hirshland's, 'Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses,' is already the book of the year for me. Carefully crafted to please any loyal mystery fan, this novel is a puzzle that challenges readers to solve it before the end.
The main character, Detective Marc Allen, is a man who finds himself in a bit of a challenging situation. After one of his cases is solved, Marc begins to wonder if the perpetrator, a man named Hank Hickox, really committed the crimes or if his daughter, Teri might have been the one to do it. Unfortunately, without the backing of his senior officers, Marc has no way to proceed any farther with the case.
Unsure what else to do, he elects to start over in a different city, moving out to Colorado to start working for the police department there. But little does he know, he's being followed. After discovering that he knows about her crimes—and her hasty cover-up—Teri Hickox stalks Marc across the country, intent on torturing him and everyone in his life.
After causing an accident that leaves a young woman with a strange method of communicating in song titles, Marc has to discover Teri's whereabouts and stop her before she hurts more people.
I loved how this story unfolded and how all of the different character perspectives came together. 'Song Girl' is definitely one to read if you enjoy a good mystery, or even if you just love classic rock and roll!
• A good guy detective (in this case, the lead character, Detective Marc Allen)
• A well established, love-to-hate them villain (femme fatale Teri Hickox)
• Multiple POVS that create a full picture of every side of the story
• A fleshed-out atmosphere.
• A well-written mystery that is just enough to keep me guessing.
Keith Hirshland's, 'Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses,' is already the book of the year for me. Carefully crafted to please any loyal mystery fan, this novel is a puzzle that challenges readers to solve it before the end.
The main character, Detective Marc Allen, is a man who finds himself in a bit of a challenging situation. After one of his cases is solved, Marc begins to wonder if the perpetrator, a man named Hank Hickox, really committed the crimes or if his daughter, Teri might have been the one to do it. Unfortunately, without the backing of his senior officers, Marc has no way to proceed any farther with the case.
Unsure what else to do, he elects to start over in a different city, moving out to Colorado to start working for the police department there. But little does he know, he's being followed. After discovering that he knows about her crimes—and her hasty cover-up—Teri Hickox stalks Marc across the country, intent on torturing him and everyone in his life.
After causing an accident that leaves a young woman with a strange method of communicating in song titles, Marc has to discover Teri's whereabouts and stop her before she hurts more people.
I loved how this story unfolded and how all of the different character perspectives came together. 'Song Girl' is definitely one to read if you enjoy a good mystery, or even if you just love classic rock and roll!
March 27, 2022
Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses is my first introduction to the talents of author Keith Hirshland. It definitely will not be the last. I was quickly immersed in this mystery. It was action packed with twists I did not see coming. I never knew what was going to happen next. It was fun trying to figure out how it was going to end. I was on the edge of my seat from start to finish. It was so so good.
I am giving Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading mysteries. I would be interested in reading more books by Keith Hirshland in the future.
I received a paperback copy of Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading mysteries. I would be interested in reading more books by Keith Hirshland in the future.
I received a paperback copy of Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
February 11, 2022
With each book he writes, Keith finds new nooks and hooks to hang his stories on. Once again, there is excellent word play, fun facts and travelogues all wrapped up in a mystery. This one really focusses on the connections his characters may not know unraveling along the way. It is a fun ride. As always...Well Done.
April 22, 2022
*Disclosure* I received a copy of Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses (Kindle Edition) in exchange for my review. All of my opinions are my own.
It isn’t often that I have read a book that has 3 stories so to speak going on at one time. Not until I started reading Song Girl by Keith Hirshland. I will be honest, at first, I was a bit confused character-wise, but I quickly realized what was happening. Then I realized what was going on and reading this book became much easier. So it is important that you realize that from the beginning.
With several different characters involved in the storyline, and a detective who happens to be down on his luck. There is a killer who has baffled both the law and him. Then there is a man with a questionable background without a home and another man who just wants his adopted sister to get the best out of life.
Main Characters
The main characters are Marc Allen, Teri Hickox, Reg Byrd, and Rampart Haynes. I would have to say my favorite character of these four was Marc Allen. I enjoyed how all of the characters were intertwined but not until the end do you realize how they actually fit into one another.
Marc Allen is a detective who doesn’t really have a bad bone in his body. He is not happy with his ability to not be able to have his upper management keep working on the double murder that he feels they didn’t want to keep pursuing answers (to solve the case). He also purchased a Pyrenees/Large Poodle, called a Pyredoodle, mixed puppy on his way to his new job site. And as a side note, I have to say there was something about his character that I was drawn to as my favorite character!
Teri Hickox was my second favorite character. There was something about her spunky character that caught my attention. She actually committed the crimes, but being the sneaky person she is, frames her father. Who is Reg Byrd who you will meet? He is the former gang biker member who actually exited town–which I am not going to disclose—I will leave that for you to find out. Then you are going to meet Rampart Haynes. Hear how he got his name, his backstory on his boxing and about his sister that suffered an unexpected accident that now she is only capable to speak only in song titles. Interesting yet as you can bet-complicated more than not.
Once you pick up this book you won’t want to put it down. Especially if you enjoy detective/police-type stories. Author Keith Hirshland has a way with his writing that you feel you are a part of the story. When you aren’t right there you ‘wonder’ what the characters are up to. When you are reading, you feel like you are right there in the story with them. I give it two-thumbs up!
It isn’t often that I have read a book that has 3 stories so to speak going on at one time. Not until I started reading Song Girl by Keith Hirshland. I will be honest, at first, I was a bit confused character-wise, but I quickly realized what was happening. Then I realized what was going on and reading this book became much easier. So it is important that you realize that from the beginning.
With several different characters involved in the storyline, and a detective who happens to be down on his luck. There is a killer who has baffled both the law and him. Then there is a man with a questionable background without a home and another man who just wants his adopted sister to get the best out of life.
Main Characters
The main characters are Marc Allen, Teri Hickox, Reg Byrd, and Rampart Haynes. I would have to say my favorite character of these four was Marc Allen. I enjoyed how all of the characters were intertwined but not until the end do you realize how they actually fit into one another.
Marc Allen is a detective who doesn’t really have a bad bone in his body. He is not happy with his ability to not be able to have his upper management keep working on the double murder that he feels they didn’t want to keep pursuing answers (to solve the case). He also purchased a Pyrenees/Large Poodle, called a Pyredoodle, mixed puppy on his way to his new job site. And as a side note, I have to say there was something about his character that I was drawn to as my favorite character!
Teri Hickox was my second favorite character. There was something about her spunky character that caught my attention. She actually committed the crimes, but being the sneaky person she is, frames her father. Who is Reg Byrd who you will meet? He is the former gang biker member who actually exited town–which I am not going to disclose—I will leave that for you to find out. Then you are going to meet Rampart Haynes. Hear how he got his name, his backstory on his boxing and about his sister that suffered an unexpected accident that now she is only capable to speak only in song titles. Interesting yet as you can bet-complicated more than not.
Once you pick up this book you won’t want to put it down. Especially if you enjoy detective/police-type stories. Author Keith Hirshland has a way with his writing that you feel you are a part of the story. When you aren’t right there you ‘wonder’ what the characters are up to. When you are reading, you feel like you are right there in the story with them. I give it two-thumbs up!
May 6, 2022
A must-read for mystery lovers everywhere, 'Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses,' draws you in right from the start with the story of a biker, his brush with the law, and his flee from the scene of the crime.
Reg Byrd didn't really mean to kill a cop, but after being pulled over the day before Thanksgiving, things got confusing and Reg ended up pulling the trigger. Reg flees town and decides to stay away for a long time.
Decades later, Detective Marc Allen arrives in Colorado Springs after fleeing a murder of his own, just not one that he caused. Marc was investigating a double homicide that was only solved by the suicide of the supposed killer, Hank Hickox. However, Marc feels that Hank's death and the confession in his suicide note, are both just a little bit too tidy.
He believes that Hank's daughter, Teri is the real perpetrator of the crime, but with the case solved there is little that he can do to put her behind bars. And once it becomes clear that Teri actually followed Marc to Colorado Springs, it's obvious that she is up to something far more serious than just a vacation.
The different threads of this story intertwine in an unexpected and uniquely satisfying way. The author really has a way with balancing character's different personalities and creating a fully fleshed out story based off of all of them working together. I really enjoyed all of the characters, particularly Detective Allen, who is a classic lawman, there to protect his town and do right by it's inhabitants.
Hirshland's book is not only entertaining, but a breath of fresh air for any mystery fan. I can guarantee that you won't be able to guess what happens next in this roller coaster of a story!
Reg Byrd didn't really mean to kill a cop, but after being pulled over the day before Thanksgiving, things got confusing and Reg ended up pulling the trigger. Reg flees town and decides to stay away for a long time.
Decades later, Detective Marc Allen arrives in Colorado Springs after fleeing a murder of his own, just not one that he caused. Marc was investigating a double homicide that was only solved by the suicide of the supposed killer, Hank Hickox. However, Marc feels that Hank's death and the confession in his suicide note, are both just a little bit too tidy.
He believes that Hank's daughter, Teri is the real perpetrator of the crime, but with the case solved there is little that he can do to put her behind bars. And once it becomes clear that Teri actually followed Marc to Colorado Springs, it's obvious that she is up to something far more serious than just a vacation.
The different threads of this story intertwine in an unexpected and uniquely satisfying way. The author really has a way with balancing character's different personalities and creating a fully fleshed out story based off of all of them working together. I really enjoyed all of the characters, particularly Detective Allen, who is a classic lawman, there to protect his town and do right by it's inhabitants.
Hirshland's book is not only entertaining, but a breath of fresh air for any mystery fan. I can guarantee that you won't be able to guess what happens next in this roller coaster of a story!
May 6, 2022
The Song Girl in question in Keith Hirshland's, 'Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses,' is Hannah Hunt, a young woman who survives a freak ice-skating accident with a surprising consequence. After the accident, Hannah is only able to speak in song titles.
Billy Joel, George Thurogood, The Beatles-- this book is like a tour through some of the best classic songs from all different kinds of genres. But 'Song Girl' isn't just a fun nostalgia trip, it's also a well-crafted mystery and a terrific character study.
Several different characters are set up to provide different perspectives on the developing mystery. First, there is Marc Allen, a detective with the Colorado Springs police department who is having difficulty putting his most recent case to bed. Although it is officially considered solved, the double homicide that made him leave his department in Raleigh still haunts his dreams.
Next is Teri Hickox, a woman with a secret. Teri was the actual perpetrator of the homicides in Raleigh who has now tracked Allen to his new city in order to keep him quiet.
After that is Rampart, Hannah Hunt's adopted brother and the first one to notice that something is off about her after her accident. Rampart is desperate to help his sister and, as a former boxing champion, he might end up being the best one for the job.
Lastly, Reg Byrd, a former member of a biker gang in town who left decades earlier after shooting a police officer. At the beginning of the book, Reg returns to town to try and find his family but he must live under an assumed name, as the law is still looking for him.
All of these characters come together to make 'Song Girl' a one-of-a-kind read with a compelling mystery and a fascinating atmosphere.
Billy Joel, George Thurogood, The Beatles-- this book is like a tour through some of the best classic songs from all different kinds of genres. But 'Song Girl' isn't just a fun nostalgia trip, it's also a well-crafted mystery and a terrific character study.
Several different characters are set up to provide different perspectives on the developing mystery. First, there is Marc Allen, a detective with the Colorado Springs police department who is having difficulty putting his most recent case to bed. Although it is officially considered solved, the double homicide that made him leave his department in Raleigh still haunts his dreams.
Next is Teri Hickox, a woman with a secret. Teri was the actual perpetrator of the homicides in Raleigh who has now tracked Allen to his new city in order to keep him quiet.
After that is Rampart, Hannah Hunt's adopted brother and the first one to notice that something is off about her after her accident. Rampart is desperate to help his sister and, as a former boxing champion, he might end up being the best one for the job.
Lastly, Reg Byrd, a former member of a biker gang in town who left decades earlier after shooting a police officer. At the beginning of the book, Reg returns to town to try and find his family but he must live under an assumed name, as the law is still looking for him.
All of these characters come together to make 'Song Girl' a one-of-a-kind read with a compelling mystery and a fascinating atmosphere.
April 5, 2022
Keith Hirshland – Song Girl – A Mystery in Two Verses – Reviewed 4/4/22 – Read 4/3-4/22
Even at the police department, the past can follow you as Det. Marc Allen finds out!
Marc Allen started his career in law enforcement at the Raleigh, North Carolina Police Dept. When two women are killed, he feels that Teri Hickox is the killer. Then her adopted father commits suicide, leaving a note behind taking credit for the murders; with no proof otherwise, the case is marked closed. Marc did not buy it for one minute. Then his girlfriend, who Marc thought he had a future with, suddenly relocates for a better job; this pushed Marc into deciding that maybe he too needed to do the same. Marc started looking, possibly a place near her so they could be together. He decided to check out an offer to interview with the Colorado Springs PD. Accepting the position and settling in, he made two friends right away. One was Hannah, who had suffered a freak accident but started talking in song titles when she recovered. The other one was a drifter that lived out of an old Dodge van and went by the name of “the champ.” But the future is met by the past when events happened that showed them that maybe it had followed him, and the story begins.
Join Marc as he settles into his new life, only to have the past slam into him with new murders…
What did I like? This book turned out to be so mysterious and exciting that I was drawn in right away. I started reading late one evening, and it took an act of congress to lay it down for sleep that night. If I had not had an appointment the next day, it would not have happened, but on the bright side, I knew that I had a fascinating book to keep me occupied while I waited to be called into the doctor's office.
What will you like? Holy smoking fires, this book will draw you in and won’t let go. The mystery of the murders, the deception, and the deviousness of the killer will amaze you, and Hannah's unusual side effect of her recovery will intrigue you. Of course, we have an exceptional and experienced detective devoted to righting wrongs when Marc is maneuvered into the killer's sights. You must pay attention as the past unveils itself, it is twisted and turns in the wind, but our brilliant detective will not let go, be prepared for a big closing that will amaze you. Keith Hirshland is outstanding in his writing, bringing us another fantastic read that will entertain you with his latest book, “Song Girl,” available NOW!!!
• ASIN: B09DTGRGMY
• Publisher: Beacon Publishing Group
• Publication Date: 1/21/2022
• File Size: 713 KB
• Print Length: 305 pages
• Genre: Mysteries
Even at the police department, the past can follow you as Det. Marc Allen finds out!
Marc Allen started his career in law enforcement at the Raleigh, North Carolina Police Dept. When two women are killed, he feels that Teri Hickox is the killer. Then her adopted father commits suicide, leaving a note behind taking credit for the murders; with no proof otherwise, the case is marked closed. Marc did not buy it for one minute. Then his girlfriend, who Marc thought he had a future with, suddenly relocates for a better job; this pushed Marc into deciding that maybe he too needed to do the same. Marc started looking, possibly a place near her so they could be together. He decided to check out an offer to interview with the Colorado Springs PD. Accepting the position and settling in, he made two friends right away. One was Hannah, who had suffered a freak accident but started talking in song titles when she recovered. The other one was a drifter that lived out of an old Dodge van and went by the name of “the champ.” But the future is met by the past when events happened that showed them that maybe it had followed him, and the story begins.
Join Marc as he settles into his new life, only to have the past slam into him with new murders…
What did I like? This book turned out to be so mysterious and exciting that I was drawn in right away. I started reading late one evening, and it took an act of congress to lay it down for sleep that night. If I had not had an appointment the next day, it would not have happened, but on the bright side, I knew that I had a fascinating book to keep me occupied while I waited to be called into the doctor's office.
What will you like? Holy smoking fires, this book will draw you in and won’t let go. The mystery of the murders, the deception, and the deviousness of the killer will amaze you, and Hannah's unusual side effect of her recovery will intrigue you. Of course, we have an exceptional and experienced detective devoted to righting wrongs when Marc is maneuvered into the killer's sights. You must pay attention as the past unveils itself, it is twisted and turns in the wind, but our brilliant detective will not let go, be prepared for a big closing that will amaze you. Keith Hirshland is outstanding in his writing, bringing us another fantastic read that will entertain you with his latest book, “Song Girl,” available NOW!!!
• ASIN: B09DTGRGMY
• Publisher: Beacon Publishing Group
• Publication Date: 1/21/2022
• File Size: 713 KB
• Print Length: 305 pages
• Genre: Mysteries
May 6, 2022
Rampart Haynes has led a very interesting life. Not only is he a former boxing champion named after the line in the 'Star-Spangled Banner,' but his adopted sister, Hannah suffered a freak accident that left her with a very odd illness. But let’s go back to the beginning. Hannah only came to live with Rampart and his family after her own parents were killed in an accident when she was a little girl.
Because of this, Rampart is obviously very protective of her, which is why it's not surprising that he is the first one to notice that something is wrong with Hannah after her accident.
What is Hannah's illness, you may be wondering? Well, after suffering a brain injury, Hannah is only able to talk in song titles. Mostly classic rock, but other genres are thrown in as well. Of course, Hannah's doctors are baffled, and no one quite knows how to cure her. But even more baffling is the accident itself, and whether or not it was really an accident at all.
Detective Marc Allen, one of the other main perspectives in the story, begins to believe that Hannah's accident may have had something to do with a double homicide that he investigated back in his last department. This case was closed, but Allen was never fully satisfied with the final ruling. He didn't believe that the man deemed responsible for the killings, Hank Hickox, was actually guilty. In fact, Allen believes that it might have been the man's daughter, Teri who actually committed the crimes, and he begins to wonder if she might have had something to do with Hannah's accident as well.
An absolutely action-packed mystery that leaves the reader guessing until the very last page, 'Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses,' should be added to any mystery lovers reading list right away!
Because of this, Rampart is obviously very protective of her, which is why it's not surprising that he is the first one to notice that something is wrong with Hannah after her accident.
What is Hannah's illness, you may be wondering? Well, after suffering a brain injury, Hannah is only able to talk in song titles. Mostly classic rock, but other genres are thrown in as well. Of course, Hannah's doctors are baffled, and no one quite knows how to cure her. But even more baffling is the accident itself, and whether or not it was really an accident at all.
Detective Marc Allen, one of the other main perspectives in the story, begins to believe that Hannah's accident may have had something to do with a double homicide that he investigated back in his last department. This case was closed, but Allen was never fully satisfied with the final ruling. He didn't believe that the man deemed responsible for the killings, Hank Hickox, was actually guilty. In fact, Allen believes that it might have been the man's daughter, Teri who actually committed the crimes, and he begins to wonder if she might have had something to do with Hannah's accident as well.
An absolutely action-packed mystery that leaves the reader guessing until the very last page, 'Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses,' should be added to any mystery lovers reading list right away!
May 5, 2022
"Song Girl" is a excellent mystery with some unusual characters. Growing up, Reg Byrd could never measure up to his brother Stan. Stan, the studious one, with the good grades. When they both go away to college, Reg gives up trying to be as good as his brother, and gets involved with a local motor cycle gang. The difference between the brothers comes to a head one Thanksgiving, when, after a fight, Reg storms off and kills a cop in anger. The gang leader advises Reg to skip town. However, Reg never learned that old adage about you can't run away from trouble. Trouble follows. He starts a new life in North Carolina. All seems well until his girlfriend becomes pregnant. Reg is on the run again.
Detective Marc Allen is one of the top cops in his homicide unit in North Carolina. However, one case eludes him. He is sure a young woman, Teri, is a killer. But her father takes the blame in a suicide note. Allen decides he needs a change of scene and goes out west.
What are the chances all the major players end up in the same town of Colorado Springs? There, we also meet two young people Hannah and her best friend Rampart. In a freak accident, Hannah suffers a severe brain injury and almost loses her life. Hannah is an interesting case. After coming out from a coma, every word she speaks is in riddles. And what can you say about Teri and her boyfriend? Shades of the old movies, "Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry" meet "Kalifornia"! Teri starts to stalk Allen and every one involved with him, since she is determined he has to pay.
After several twists and turns and non-stop action, the story comes to an unexpected conclusion.
I especially enjoyed the role Hannah played in the story. I'll leave it at that just to avoid a spoiler. Not only was the novel entertaining, but it also touches on the plight of the homeless, all their hardships in being safe, not only from the elements, finding food to survive, but also from being victims of violent crime. I also liked the setting of the book. I can just imagine waking up in the morning and gazing out of my condo window at Pike's Peak!
For a chance to win a copy go to: https://theteddyrosebookreviewsplusmo...
Detective Marc Allen is one of the top cops in his homicide unit in North Carolina. However, one case eludes him. He is sure a young woman, Teri, is a killer. But her father takes the blame in a suicide note. Allen decides he needs a change of scene and goes out west.
What are the chances all the major players end up in the same town of Colorado Springs? There, we also meet two young people Hannah and her best friend Rampart. In a freak accident, Hannah suffers a severe brain injury and almost loses her life. Hannah is an interesting case. After coming out from a coma, every word she speaks is in riddles. And what can you say about Teri and her boyfriend? Shades of the old movies, "Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry" meet "Kalifornia"! Teri starts to stalk Allen and every one involved with him, since she is determined he has to pay.
After several twists and turns and non-stop action, the story comes to an unexpected conclusion.
I especially enjoyed the role Hannah played in the story. I'll leave it at that just to avoid a spoiler. Not only was the novel entertaining, but it also touches on the plight of the homeless, all their hardships in being safe, not only from the elements, finding food to survive, but also from being victims of violent crime. I also liked the setting of the book. I can just imagine waking up in the morning and gazing out of my condo window at Pike's Peak!
For a chance to win a copy go to: https://theteddyrosebookreviewsplusmo...
June 6, 2022
REVIEWED FOR BEST THRILLER BOOKS
I recently discovered Keith Hirshlands’ writing, and I could not have been happier! Hirshland writes great mysteries with a fun quirky twist that makes them a hoot to read. His characters are intriguing, and he always finds a way to tie them together that leaves my jaw on the floor. Hirshlands’ novel, Song Girl, was all of this and more. I relish when an author can pen multiple story lines that seem separate, but are brought together in the end. The crazier the plot, the better, and Song Girl delivered this story line.
Detective Marc Allen has had enough of his time in Raleigh, North Carolina with the Police Department. Having seemingly cracked two murders that he was assigned to solve, something is eating at him with this conclusion. Allen feels that the true murderer is still out there clear and free: Teri Hickox, the adopted daughter of the man who confessed to these murders in a note after committing suicide. Unsure how to proceed, and needing a change of scenery, Allen ups and moves to Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Allen is working for the Colorado Springs Police Department, and fostering new friendships. One friend is Hannah Hunt, who after suffering a head trauma, can only speak in song titles. This is not the only strange thing to happen to Allen. Homeless people around the Springs are showing up dead in mysterious ways, and Allen can’t seem to shake this may be tied to a case from Raleigh. Can Detective Marc Allen solve this case before the killer rides off to find their next victim?
Song Girl is a captivating mystery with a tantalizing plot with a tenacious detective, and a confident killer. I enjoyed this read for the plot twists. You know it’s good when you tell yourself the lie “one more page” or “one more chapter”! Keith Hirshland’s novel, Song Girl, is the mystery novel you need in your life!
REVIEWED FOR BEST THRILLER BOOKS
I recently discovered Keith Hirshlands’ writing, and I could not have been happier! Hirshland writes great mysteries with a fun quirky twist that makes them a hoot to read. His characters are intriguing, and he always finds a way to tie them together that leaves my jaw on the floor. Hirshlands’ novel, Song Girl, was all of this and more. I relish when an author can pen multiple story lines that seem separate, but are brought together in the end. The crazier the plot, the better, and Song Girl delivered this story line.
Detective Marc Allen has had enough of his time in Raleigh, North Carolina with the Police Department. Having seemingly cracked two murders that he was assigned to solve, something is eating at him with this conclusion. Allen feels that the true murderer is still out there clear and free: Teri Hickox, the adopted daughter of the man who confessed to these murders in a note after committing suicide. Unsure how to proceed, and needing a change of scenery, Allen ups and moves to Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Allen is working for the Colorado Springs Police Department, and fostering new friendships. One friend is Hannah Hunt, who after suffering a head trauma, can only speak in song titles. This is not the only strange thing to happen to Allen. Homeless people around the Springs are showing up dead in mysterious ways, and Allen can’t seem to shake this may be tied to a case from Raleigh. Can Detective Marc Allen solve this case before the killer rides off to find their next victim?
Song Girl is a captivating mystery with a tantalizing plot with a tenacious detective, and a confident killer. I enjoyed this read for the plot twists. You know it’s good when you tell yourself the lie “one more page” or “one more chapter”! Keith Hirshland’s novel, Song Girl, is the mystery novel you need in your life!
REVIEWED FOR BEST THRILLER BOOKS
May 6, 2022
What do you get when you mix a mystery with a thriller and add in in-depth character studies along the way? You get 'Song Girl: A Mystery in Two Verses,' by Keith Hirshland, an absolute masterpiece of detective fiction, jam-packed with just enough thrills to keep you on the edge of your seat.
This novel takes you off guard with how sharp and well-thought out it is, while also giving you everything you can expect and even count on in a murder mystery. First of all, there's the sleuth, in this case, Detective Marc Allen, a former Raleigh, North Carolina police detective who has recently transferred to Colorado Springs.
Why did the detective pack up his entire life and move halfway across the country to start anew? It all has to do with the case that still dogs him. The case of a double homicide that was solved just a little too cleanly by the suicide of the supposed killer.
Allen doesn't think the man who committed suicide, Hank Hickox was the real killer. In fact, he thinks that the murders were actually committed by Hank's daughter, Teri. But without enough evidence, there's nothing he can do to prosecute her. Frustrated, Allen leaves North Carolina, unaware that his exit is being tailed, and that Teri intends to make sure that he never tells anyone what he knows about her deadly deeds.
'Song Girl' is a wild ride, and the usage of the different character's perspectives to tell the story was a stroke of genius. This is already one of my favorite books of the year. I couldn't put this one down until I was finished with it! I can't wait to read more of Hirshland's work in the future and I will definitely be keeping an eye on his page for his next release!
This novel takes you off guard with how sharp and well-thought out it is, while also giving you everything you can expect and even count on in a murder mystery. First of all, there's the sleuth, in this case, Detective Marc Allen, a former Raleigh, North Carolina police detective who has recently transferred to Colorado Springs.
Why did the detective pack up his entire life and move halfway across the country to start anew? It all has to do with the case that still dogs him. The case of a double homicide that was solved just a little too cleanly by the suicide of the supposed killer.
Allen doesn't think the man who committed suicide, Hank Hickox was the real killer. In fact, he thinks that the murders were actually committed by Hank's daughter, Teri. But without enough evidence, there's nothing he can do to prosecute her. Frustrated, Allen leaves North Carolina, unaware that his exit is being tailed, and that Teri intends to make sure that he never tells anyone what he knows about her deadly deeds.
'Song Girl' is a wild ride, and the usage of the different character's perspectives to tell the story was a stroke of genius. This is already one of my favorite books of the year. I couldn't put this one down until I was finished with it! I can't wait to read more of Hirshland's work in the future and I will definitely be keeping an eye on his page for his next release!
August 18, 2022
When people say a cake is "rich" it is hard to define exactly, but we have a sense of what is meant. For me, this book is
rich
!
The story is a tapestry that is expertly woven across multi-generations and even across multiple states. The writing delivered by Hirshland is engaging and flows effortlessly. The characters are well developed and are people I was genuinely interested in seeing what the book had in store for them. The beauty and grandeur of Colorado Springs was also painted expertly by Hirshland.
The book is kind of outside my normal reading patterns. I read a lot of military and political thrillers. This has a mystery/true crime element to it, so still falls into the realm of thrillers.
I can't say enough good about this book! It is rich! I feel enriched having read it, and will be gifting this book to several people. It is phenomenal.
The story is a tapestry that is expertly woven across multi-generations and even across multiple states. The writing delivered by Hirshland is engaging and flows effortlessly. The characters are well developed and are people I was genuinely interested in seeing what the book had in store for them. The beauty and grandeur of Colorado Springs was also painted expertly by Hirshland.
The book is kind of outside my normal reading patterns. I read a lot of military and political thrillers. This has a mystery/true crime element to it, so still falls into the realm of thrillers.
I can't say enough good about this book! It is rich! I feel enriched having read it, and will be gifting this book to several people. It is phenomenal.
August 13, 2022
Song Girl, The Book I Read by @khhauthor gave me Good Vibrations. A police Thriller that will leave you wanting More More More! I had Great Expectations when I received it, and I was not Dissatisfied. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Seriously though, this was a very good read. If you are a fan of police/murder mysteries then this book will hit the spot. Interesting format, intriguing plot line, engaging dialogue and solid characters, make for one suspenseful read up until the twist at the end that will leave you like 😮! A definite recommendation to anyone’s library!
Seriously though, this was a very good read. If you are a fan of police/murder mysteries then this book will hit the spot. Interesting format, intriguing plot line, engaging dialogue and solid characters, make for one suspenseful read up until the twist at the end that will leave you like 😮! A definite recommendation to anyone’s library!
August 19, 2022
Good book...............I'm a tarheel so the book drew me into the story. Detective Marc Allen meets people in Colorado Springs that become good friends and bad guys who will be sorry they ever met him. I hope author has a book continuing with Marc, Tracey, Hannah and Rampart!
May 11, 2022
This book was a thoroughly enjoyable read and so much fun. The closest analogy I can make, even though it doesn't make sense, is to a Seinfeld episode. Seriously, that's what went through my mind. I loved the humor in that show as well as the deft way they took seemingly disparate stories and wove them all into one resoundingly funny and unique ending. This book has all of that and so much more.
It could easily be read as a standalone, but you're really missing out if you don't read "The Flower Girl Murder" which precedes it. The experience of reading this book will be so much richer. But either way, you will definitely enjoy this book. Every character, whether a major one or very minor, all come across in vividly drawn colors, wrapped around a creatively constructed mystery. I'm anxiously awaiting what's in store next for this author. Extremely well written and excellently executed.
***I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is strictly voluntary.***
It could easily be read as a standalone, but you're really missing out if you don't read "The Flower Girl Murder" which precedes it. The experience of reading this book will be so much richer. But either way, you will definitely enjoy this book. Every character, whether a major one or very minor, all come across in vividly drawn colors, wrapped around a creatively constructed mystery. I'm anxiously awaiting what's in store next for this author. Extremely well written and excellently executed.
***I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is strictly voluntary.***
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews