No Requiem for the Tin Man is a gripping, dieselpunk detective novel set in 1930s San Francisco. It’s absolutely dripping with atmosphere and intrigue. Lou Tanner, our protagonist, is a hard-nosed private investigator navigating a world of American Nazis and mysterious clients amid an undercurrent of political tension. The story kicks off when a disheveled, terrified man stumbles into Lou’s office. He warns of unseen dangers and mumbling about “Tin Men.” What follows is a twisty and action-packed investigation that dives into the darker corners of society. Lou Tanner’s sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude leads the charge.

One thing I loved about T. E. MacArthur’s book is how she nails the voice of Lou Tanner. Lou is a true gumshoe. She’s complete with biting sarcasm and a rough-around-the-edges charm that readers will find hard not to admire. Her internal monologues are pure gold. They’re filled with dry humor and sharp observations that bring her character to life. This voice is what kept me coming back to this book, even when the plot delves into the convoluted politics of the time.

The plot was engaging but it sometimes felt like it was juggling a lot. The introduction of various characters and subplots, like the mysterious “Tin Men,” the shady War Department, and the Gruber family, sometimes made it hard for me to keep track of what was going on. There were moments when I found myself flipping back a few pages to remember who was who. But the complexity of the plot also added to the book’s depth and the way everything ties together in the end is satisfying.

What stood out to me was the setting. The dieselpunk version of 1930s San Francisco is familiar and alien at the same time with zeppelins hovering over Market Street and an undercurrent of fascism threatening to boil over. The author does a bang-up job of blending historical elements with speculative fiction to create a world that is detailed and immersive. The descriptions of the city, the constant tension in the air, and the creeping dread as Lou uncovers more about the “Tin Men” all contribute to a mood that is equal parts thrilling and unsettling.

I highly recommend No Requiem for the Tin Man to fans of hardboiled detective fiction that looking for a story with a twist. If you are into strong female leads, adore noir settings, and looking for a story with a bit of dieselpunk flair, then this book is definitely for you. Lou Tanner is a character you will not forget and her adventures in this darkly imaginative world are gripping.

Pages: 275 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D9MRDLGS