This is a charming and surprising little mystery that reads quick. The key here is the characterization and humorous portrayal of Harry Houdini. He is at the early part of his career before he has become a name and it is quite charming what Mr. Stashower has done.

The mystery has its twists and red herrings and the bodies fall quickly. That Houdini and our narrator, his brother, figure things out is fun to watch and of course in hindsight we see even better than if Mr. Holmes was leading us through the game.

All in all, a recommended read. Great historical feel for the era as well. ( )

This is the third in a series by Stashower in which Harry Houdini & his brother, Dash, are the crimesolvers. I love books about uncovering the hokum behind seances and as an added bonus, there's a mystery to solve. Try it...but start with the first one, The Dime Museum Murders. ( )