This is my first experience with this author, and I’m impressed. I loved the book, which has Lanie Price, a widow and journalist, investigating the disappearance and then murder of her friend Vera, the much-loved wife of a loved and respected pastor in 1920s Harlem. Her investigations, supported by her boss Sam, take her into some darker areas as well as show warm-hearts and love. The story is not only 1920s historical but gives a view of living in Harlem, and America, at that time too. Wonderful characters, great writing and a gripping story, including . Although the fourth book in a series, I had no trouble reading this on its own – and I recommend it! I received a review copy and freely leave this honest review.

Persia Walker excels at crafting literary puzzles that are fun to figure out. For Dear Sister Dead, I could not guess until the end whodunit (I usually can figure out who halfway to 2/3 of the way through a mystery). Ms. Walker also writes fascinating reasons why the victim was murdered; understanding the “why” is just as intriguing as the “how” and “who.” The characters’ backstories are great clues (and red herrings) for their motives and their actions. These are the reasons why I always look forward to the next Lanie Price mystery.

The author is back with her 1920s heart-pounding tale, authentic and memorable characters, great surroundings, and suave dialogue. Some of the old players have returned namely the no-nonsense, and caring Lanie Price, a society writer for the Harlem Chronicle, and Detective John Blackie who is more considerate than most of the law enforcement agents were during that time. The wife of a powerful minister is murdered but things are not what they seem, exposing some shocking secrets and lies, twists and turns, deceit, rumors, exploitation, and betrayal. The page-turning, curveball-hitting plot will keep you guessing from start to finish with a twist of a turn ending that will leave you asking “How well do you really know someone?” The addition of factual events, people, and neighborhoods makes the story an amazing gem.

I love all of the Lani Price novels and Dead Sister Dead was another exceptional novel. The setting, the character development, the complexities of black life in Harlem are done in such a way that makes me feel that I am there at that time. Persia Walker is a gifted mystery writer and her books should be placed amongst the greats of the mystery genre!