The Blues Don’t Care
It is 1940s Los Angeles, and Bobby Saxon wants to join the Booker “Boom Boom” Taylor Orchestra, a talented group restricted to certain clubs and locations because they are Black. Bobby is also a talented musician, and white, but he harbors a secret that causes him to seek out Booker’s band. Then a murder happens on the famous Apollo gambling ship during Bobby’s first real gig. A member of the band, James, is arrested and charged with the murder, mostly because of the color of his skin. Bobby is tapped by Booker to investigate and try to clear James, and again skin color is the reason. Bobby’s white skin will take him places Booker and the rest of the band members cannot go. Bobby is a reluctant investigator at first but is promised a spot in the band if he finds the real killer.
The vibe and feel of 1940s crime movies come alive in this novel. Those familiar with 1940s LA will be delighted as the actors, actresses, musicians, and gangsters of that era make appearances at many famed restaurants and watering holes. The blatant racism of that time is palpable and shocking. While he is wrapped up in the investigation, Bobby is also trying to make a personal decision that will chart the course of his future.
Bobby’s investigation moves a little slowly in the first half of the book but picks up speed in the second half. The secret Bobby is hiding is an important and intriguing aspect. Recommended for readers interested in 1940s historical fiction, crime novels, or the history of entertainment in Los Angeles.
