A.G. Russo’s O’SHAUGHNESSY INVESTIGATIONS INC. Bangtails, Grifters, and a Liar’s Kiss whisks readers away to the gritty streets of 1940s Brooklyn, where Maeve O’Shaughnessy and her detective agency balance precariously between personal trials and societal upheaval during World War II. With a layered narrative of mystery, gangland threats, and the home-front struggles against a wartime backdrop, Russo pulls us into a world heavy with palpable tension. Vic Marino, Maeve’s partner, adds a rugged, protective presence to the team, and Jimmy, Maeve’s brother, represents the weight of family duty as the war looms over their lives. It’s a story woven tightly with suspense, crime, and the emotional strains of war-torn America.

Russo’s writing style is nothing short of riveting. From the start, the author paints a vivid picture of Brooklyn in 1943. I loved the scene-setting, especially the vivid descriptions of Maeve and Vic bracing against the elements of a harsh New York summer while being trailed by gangster types. The era feels authentic, and the author does a fine job threading in historical detail, like FDR’s fireside chats, which give us a sense of urgency. Maeve’s stoic resilience stands out, yet she isn’t immune to grief, evident in her moments of emotional vulnerability, like when she zones out thinking of her lost friends and worries about her brothers. Vic’s attempts to lift her spirits are genuine, though he, too, grapples with trauma from his past relationships. These emotional layers make the characters believable, but at times, the slow build made me wish for quicker pacing. The banter between Maeve and Vic feels organic, almost like listening to old-time radio detectives, and moments like their hilarious disguises to avoid the mob’s gaze had me grinning. The shadow of the mob boss Fat Fingers loomed large and added a sense of dread whenever Vic navigated their world.

O’SHAUGHNESSY INVESTIGATIONS INC. Bangtails, Grifters, and a Liar’s Kiss is a thrilling read, brimming with atmosphere and heart. Russo has a gift for bringing the 1940s to life, immersing readers in the moral dilemmas, period slang, and struggles of everyday people. If you’re a fan of historical crime fiction with a detective noir flavor and plenty of emotion, this book is well worth your time. It’s for anyone who enjoys strong female leads, tales of loyalty and loss, and a twisty plot that keeps you guessing. Dive in and let Maeve and Vic take you on a wild ride.

Pages: 317 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DHHL3WHB