Reviewed by Edith Wairimu for Readers' Favorite

In Gail Meath’s original mystery novel, Songbird, a talented composer suddenly dies from what seems like a straightforward cause but a brilliant detective, Jax Diamond, suspects that the man was murdered. Jax’s private investigation of Sam Sanders, a composer who has just completed writing a new, impressive musical, leads to his involvement in investigating Sam’s death. The cause of Sam’s demise could easily be attributed to a heart attack except for one minor detail - a lily that was found pinned to his jacket. The lily brings back memories of a previous murder case involving a Broadway star. As Jax and his friend, Sergeant Tim Murphy, work to uncover the connection between the two cases, they discover details that plunge Jax back into his dark, painful past.

Songbird by Gail Meath transports readers back to the twenties, inside Broadway’s intrigues and glamor. The book’s pace is swift, and each scene is absorbing. It includes engaging and complex characters such as Laura Graystone, a young, upcoming star dubbed the “Songbird” by the New York Times. I loved that the story’s plot is layered and not straightforward. There are many revelations in the book and some exciting action scenes that add tension to the novel. The story’s end is also engrossing and rewarding. Jax’s difficult past is explored, and his attraction to Laura introduces another thrilling sub-plot to the story. Songbird by Gail Meath is a fine and captivating historical novel with endearing characters. Readers will love its surprising twists, creative storyline, and exhilarating setting.