Product Description
In her well-received novel Outfoxed, Rita Mae Brown vividly and deftly brought to life the genteel world of foxhunting, where hunters, horses, hounds, and foxes form a tightly knit community amidst old money and simmering conflicts. With Hotspur, we return to the Southern chase–and to a hunt on the trail of a murderer.

Jane “Sister” Arnold may be in her seventies, but she shows no signs of losing her love for the Hunt. As Master of the prestigious Jefferson Hunt Club in a well-heeled Virginia Blue Ridge Mountain town, she is the most powerful and revered woman in the county. She can assess the true merits of a man or a horse with uncanny skill. In short, Sister Jane is not easily duped.

When the skeleton of Nola Bancroft, still wearing an exquisite sapphire ring on her finger, is unearthed, it brings back a twenty-one year old mystery. Beautiful Nola was a girl who had more male admirers than her family had money, which was certainly quite a feat. In a world where a woman’s ability to ride was considered one of her most important social graces, Nola was queen of the stable. She had a weakness for men, and her tastes often ventured towards the inappropriate, like the sheriff’s striking son, Guy Ramy. But even Guy couldn’t keep her eyes from wandering.

When Nola and Guy disappeared on the Hunt’s ceremonial first day of cubbing more than two decades ago, everyone assumed one of two things: Guy and Nola eloped to escape her family’s disapproval; or Guy killed Nola in a jealous rage and vanished. But Sister Jane had never bought either of those theories.
Sister knows that all the players are probably still in place, the old feuds haven’t died, and the sparks that led to a long-ago murder could flare up at any time.

Hotspur brings all of Rita Mae Brown’s storytelling gifts to the fore. It’s a tale of Southern small-town manners and rituals, a compelling and intricate murder mystery, and a look at the human/animal relationship in all its complexity and charm.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Long Dead Tell Stories
Jane "Sister" Arnold is walking around the barns when she discovers the body of an old hunter who died in his sleep. The horse famous for his valour in the field is to be given an honors burial, but while preparing his grave an other grave is exposed. That of Nola Bancroft who disappeared 21 years before. Guy Ramy, the son of the local sheriff also disappeared the same night and his body is soon discovered.
What happened to these two vibrant young people and who killed them so long ago are questions "Sister" Jane Arnold can not let fallow in the dirt.
This is good, but it doesn't have the punch of OUTFOXED.
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS.

The Fox is not killed!
Read the entire series.It's worth it to read twice, if you have the time.Sure did learn a lot.I don't understand all the wardrobe details, but each to her own.Rita Mae Brown is the greatest!Interaction between animals is, of course, quite enlightening.

Accurate, Likeable Characters
I've read every book in the series so far & have enjoyed them all. As a rider and former horse groom,I know all about horses, riders, & barn politics & Rita Mae's details are dead on. How frustrating it is to read a book & it's obvious the author didn't do their homework. That's not a problem with Rita Mae. Besides being an author she is also Master of Foxhounds for her own club.

This is a 'niche' series. Readers that are not interested in horses or foxhunting could find the books tedious. At times the mystery takes a backseat to the characters (animal & human) & the sport. For folks into horses/hunting riding with Sister, Shaker, & the rest of the gang is the perfect way to spend an afternoon without even getting your boots muddy!

Disappointing resolution
I enjoy the animal's personification and dialogue in these books and while I'm not enamored of foxhunting, the information about it does make the book informative.

My complaint is that the resolution of the mystery resembles a CHiPs episode I saw in the late 70s. A re-enactment with actors playing the parts of people who've been dead for 2 centuries? It's rather unsatisfactory. I wonder if the author just got painted into a corner and could only conjure up this elaborate scheme to solve the mystery. I found it to be a disappointing way to end an otherwise enjoyable novel.

A fascinating read
While other reviewiers here find the talking animals and foxhunting information not to their taste, I find it enjoyable and fascinating.The mystery here is not as well done as in the previous work _Outfoxed_, and the recent _Full Cry_, but the intrigues of the Jefferson Hunt are what make the book. The murder of Nola seemed to me a bit of rehashing of plot from one or two of the Sneaky Pie books, but I am an avid re-reader of Ms Brown's Sneaky Pie work. It would probably go unnoticed by a reader not as familliar with those stories.
The real stars of the story are the animals' interactions with each other and with Sister, and foxhunting itself.Rita Mae Brown paints a picture of life in rural Virginia as intriguing and affectionate as Peter Mayle's France from _A Year In Provence_.
She makes me want to visit, observe a hunt, and wallow in the hospitality of the south.With this and the first book, you grow to know the players in the hunt club as closely as actors on a soap opera.I too missed Doug, and hope he returns in future books.If you enjoied _Outfoxed_, you will enjoy Hotspur. ... Read more

Product Description
Critics and fans alike are wild about Rita Mae Brown’s richly imagined and utterly engaging foxhunting mysteries–and this latest novel promises more thrilling hunts, breathtaking vistas, and an all-new sinister scandal.

Millions of dollars seem to be missing after a long-overdue audit of the local aluminum plant reveals a major accounting discrepancy. Company president Garvey Stokes finds himself at a loss–in more ways than one. He turns to his sharp-tongued, ornery bookkeeper, Iphigenia “Iffy” Demetrios, for an explanation, but she’s no help. Yet when the fuzzy math suddenly includes a body count, the figures can no longer be ignored.

While the town sheriff tries to get to the bottom of the matter, leave it to “Sister” Jane Arnold, venerable master of the Jefferson Hunt Club, to rely on her keen horse-and-hound sense to follow the trail of murder and cover-up. Throwing her off the scent, however, is former hunt club donor and all-around cad Crawford Howard, who thinks he can go toe-to-toe with the beloved septuagenarian and outclass her club by grossly sidestepping hound- and-hunt etiquette. Against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a menagerie of friends, foes, and fresh new faces saddle up for the breakneck ride to unravel the conspiracy. Even the furry denizens in the fields and boroughs have a thing or two to say about these peculiar humans.

Incomparable author Rita Mae Brown returns to the glorious hills of Virginia and its genteel foxhunting society, where how much money you have in the bank is not nearly as important as how long your family has lived on the land–and where nearly everyone has something to hide. As Sister muses, “The little secrets leak out. The big ones, well, some escape like evils from Pandora’s box. And others we’ll never know.”


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

The Hunt is Back in the Pack
The ancient sport of fox hunting needs financial support and when the Jefferson Hunt Club loses a substantial supporter "Sister" Jane Arnold, master of the hunt gets on the trail of a fox in sporting clothes in Rita Mae Brown's fifth installment of the Outfoxed series, THE HOUNDS AND THE FURY.
Fantastic reading with lots of laughs and surprising antics from beloved characters.
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS.

Only for the hardcore Brown...or foxhunting fan
For everyone else, this was a god-awful waste of time. Frankly, Brown spent 315 pages on a short story that could have been told in about 10-12,000 words dragging it out relentlessly with ridiculous foxhunting scenes and a conflict between Sister and Crawford Howard that had nothing whatsoever to do with the story she was telling. It was like listening to someone tell you a 5 minute story that takes 2 hours because they have to stop and tell you what they had for breakfast the last three mornings before they can get to the blasted point. If this is the direction the Sister Jane books are going, this is my last one. It was terrible.

Add to that the preachy, tirades about how people just don't understand foxhunting and how the English government is punishing the middle class by outlawing it, on and on. First of all, to maintain an adequate foxhunting situation one must pay dues to the club, maintain a horse (not just any old nag will do either), have a job that lets you take off for romps when you feel like it, outfit yourself in the appropriate clothes with the appropriate trailers, dually, etc. That sort of financial situation is far from "middle class". Face it Rita. You're loaded.

Great author; not her best book
Although Brown is one of my all time favorite authors, this time around there is too much filler and not enough story.Characters are true to themselves, but there is too much time between story actions to keep you completely interested and reading.

Another Excellent Fox Hunting Story
After stumbling across Rita Mae Brown's Fox Hunting series totally by accident, I've become an addict.This is yet another in an exciting, informative, well written thread.Read by the author, I found this recording difficult to turn off.I had read the book, but the insight provided by the author's own intonation and pronunciation added a totally enjoyable level to a fine story.I strongly recommend this recording and the book behind it.

Another enjoyable read!


I have all of the books in this series and always pre-purchase the next one out in my anticipation of the fun to come. The stories are always a fun read, the mysteries o.k., but the characters and the hunting details are awesome. I just love when Brown goes in to great detail regarding hunt etiquette, the horses, and the dogs. The terminology and descriptions are fascinating. Also, I am not at all offended when she makes political observations, especially when I agree with most all of them!

I've recommended this series to my trainer and the kids in the local Pony Club to read, and for anyone frustrated by adult horse fiction. Usually the authors get it all wrong i.e. children riding stallions, green riders as assistant trainers, etc. but Rita Mae Brown is always 'spot on'. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

Not like Lilian Jackson Braun
I started the Mrs. Murphy books because they were advertised as being like the Lilian Jackson Braun books. Not so. The Cat Who... mysteries are fun, clean and delightful to read. The Mrs. Murphy books are full of cussing and anti God remarks.
This is my opinion. If you want good clean reading. Stick to the Cat Who's...

Murder at Monticello
The home of Thomas Jefferson provides the perfect setting for mysterious murders, both past and present.The past murder comes to light when an archaeological dig unearths the remains of a man buried in Monticello's slave quarters.Postmistress Harry Harristeen and her blue-blood friends begin investigating the murder, and in doing so, they place their own lives in danger.Of course, Harry's cat, Mrs. Murphy, and corgi, Tee Tucker, are instrumental in solving the case.As a result of the investigation, some current murders also occur.As usual, author Brown provides a good read, this time enhanced by some interesting background information on our third president and his famous home, Monticello.

Murder, Mystery, and Thomas Jefferson
In the 3rd installment of the Mrs. Murphy and Tucker Mystery series, a body has been discovered in the slave quarters of the home of Thomas Jefferson.Since Jefferson has been dead for 170 years, it is impossible to question him about the man found dead from a blow to the dead.And when another recently murdered body is discovered, it becomes apparent that someone wants the secrets that have been buried with the body to remain so.Coming into question is the practice of slavery, and the descendants of Thomas Jefferson.Jefferson had been rumored to have fathered a child by one of his slaves, and it appears that the man found murdered may have been also been involved with one of the slaves.The citizens of Crozet band together to prove that their beloved Jefferson had nothing to do with the murder or cover-up, and while doing so they unearth secrets that have been hidden in the town for over a century.

I have become a big fan of this series, and enjoy the banter between the animals.The relationships between the members of the town have been evolving, and I like the way that Harry is loved and embraced by the people who have known her all of her life.She works hard, cares for her animals, and genuinely cares for the town and its residents.I look forward to future books in the series, and am hopeful to see more of Blair as a potential love interest for Harry.

The first book in this series is called "Wish You Were Here".Enjoy!

Murder Then and Now.
Is this old murder from 1803 connected to the new one that just occurred in present day Crozen?Harry and her friends think so, so they begin to dig deep into old records and letters to find out what the connection could be.Can some knowledge be that great that it covers two centuries?Apparently so because it appears that someone really wants some old secrets kept secret.I enjoyed this book actually more than the previous two because I found that the two murders separated by almost 200 years were very well connected by the author.I still find the "talking" done by the animals in this series a little off-putting, but the mysteries are quite good in spite of this.

OK BUT!!
I love the characters but, too many ...
confusing to say the least.The books would be better with less characters.Also the cats and dog need to interact more. ... Read more

Product Description
In 1941, Jane Pohl was a teenager that took a chance on an unpredictable and dangerous Army horse. Slated for death, Fitzrada was a small Throughbred with a nasty temper and a fear of the men that had abused him and pushed him too far. Jane pleaded with her father to save Fitzrada from destruction knowing that the horse had a huge heart and tremendous talent in the jumping ring. With Fitzrada as her mount, Jane became one of the first publicized female jumpers in history and rode the horse into the spotlight, winning 37 jumper and 6 hunter championships and competing at the esteemed National Horse Show at Madison Square Garden. Renegade Champion is an inspirational true story of a young woman and her horse breaking both records and barriers. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

"I used to ride a little in the 1940's"
That's what Jane Pohl Rust would answer, in her later years, when asked if she had had much experience on horseback. Pohl Rust ACTUALLY had done quite a bit of riding from 1945 to 1950 when she rode her horse Fitz (shortened for Fitzrada), a runty horse she rescued from death when her family bought him from the army in 1940. She had ridden Fitz at her father's Army base in Hawaii before the war and had been the only rider who could tame him. Pohl Rust - an Army brat - had moved around with her family, from West Point to Hawaii to Virginia. She was an avid rider and jumper - never owning a horse, but always working out with the Army equestrian teams at what ever base she was living.

In 1940 she took Fitz with her when she entered Vassar College in New York. He was still difficult to work with and ride, but she gamely took him fox hunting at local meets. She also entered riding and jumping contests with him. After her graduation in 1943, she moved back to her family's home in the Loudoun area in Virginia. She entered meets and races and jumping competition in northern Virginia, ultimately going to New York's National Horse Show from 1945 to 1950, and sweeping the awards each year. She was aiming for a place on the 1948 US Olympic Equestrian Team, but it was still only open to Army officers. By 1952, when places on the team were opened up to all amateur riders, Pohl Rust had retired from competition and Fitz had died.

Until her death in early 2001, she lived in the Boston area and then northern Virginia, where she raised her son, Richard Rust - the product of an early, unhappy marriage - and taught high school. She also rode to hunt with various northern Virginia hunt clubs and "kept her hand in" by teaching youngsters how to ride and jump.

As you might be able to tell from my review, I know very little about horses, competitions, and fox hunting, but I love Rita Mae Brown's "Sister Jane" series of mysteries. Brown wrote the preface to Richard Rust's biography of his mother. Evidently, Col Rust died before his book's publication. He wrote a marvelous book about his mother and his maternal grandparents. If you're interested in riding or just reading a good biography, you'll like this book.

Renegade Champion: The Unlikely Rise of Fitzrada
This is a heartwrenching true story of the bond between horse and human.Richard Rust made the time and tension come alive when telling of his mother's pain and passion for jumping and her great love, Fitzrada. It's the story of one human who fell in love with a horse and used that love to change the face of show jumping as we knew it.

An inspiring story of the first woman show jumper
This is a book to treasure and it will always be on my bookcase. Renegade Champion is a true story of a smart but dangerous horse named Fitzrada and the young woman, Jane Pohl, who believed in him. The story follows Jane and "Fitz" from their first encounter on an Army base to their unikely rise to fame in the horse show world, culminating with her performance in the Jumper Championship at the National Horse Show at Madison Square Garden in 1946.
Best of all, it is a good read, and keeps you on edge, wondering what will happen next.
This book is a loving tribute to Jane by her son, Richard Rust. Unfortunately, I understand he died just before publication, so never learned how his book was received.

don't miss this one
"Renegade Champion" isa heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking story.It is beautifully written.Whether one loves horses or knows little about them, this story cannot help but remind us how perseverance pays off, and how rewarding the relationship with four-footed companions can be.It also reminds us that the teenage years can be the best of times and the worst of times.

For those who do love horses, this book is a must-read.Jane Pohl's son must have loved his mother very much to write such a moving book that shows that she gave him great memories.

For this reader, "Renegade Champion" is one of those rare books that is truly unforgettable.I will always picture Jane Pohl and Fitzrada -- a runt who was sentenced to death as a rogue horse -- flying over the show-jumping barriers -- with room to spare. ... Read more

Product Description
The author of Venus Envy takes you on a riotous ride back to one woman's future...

In a delightful contemporary farce with a riotous twist, Rita Mae Brown welcomes you to Virginia's horse country, where a fox hunt is about to lead a 1990s woman, Cig Blackwood, into a 1690s adventure of the heart.  Infidelity, single motherhood, family betrayal, and the thrill of the hunt (in many varieties) are hilariously and poignantly played out in this captivating novel of time travel and self-discovery.


From the Paperback edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (26)

need a movie
I absolutely love this book. This is my second most favorite book by Rita Mae Brown. For anyone that believes in reincarnation Riding Shotgun is a must read. This book should be made into a WE or Lifetime movie. I wish Ms. Brown would write more like Riding Shotgun and High Hearts.

A Real Disappointment
This book was just plain awful.I did not know that Rita Mae Brown had gone so far from her Sister and Sneaky Pie books.I will be very careful in the future to see that I avoid such drivel

One of her best
I have read all of the Sneaky Pie books and found this one a refreshing change.The characters are vivid as is the description of 1699.The title character, Cig, struggles to learn many of lifes lessons and get on with her life.Ms. Brown is able to tell a story with a message in a way that is engaging without being a lecture.

Great reading
Great book; literally can NOT put it down.Great action, historical content and characters you care about.Finished it in three hours because I HAD to see how it ended.Would love to read more about these characters.

Riding Shotgum
The title did not really tell much about the story but the book was well written and a very good read ... Read more

Product Description

 
Rita Mae Brown’s earliest memory is of the soothing purr of Mickey, her family’s long-haired tiger cat, who curled up and claimed a spot in her crib. From there, a steady parade of cats, dogs, horses, and all manner of two- and four-legged critters have walked, galloped, and flown into and through her world. In Animal Magnetism, the bestselling author shares the lessons she’s learned from these marvelous creatures as well as her deep appreciation for them. We meet Franklin, a parrot with a wicked sense of humor; R.C., a courageous Doberman who defined loyalty and sacrifice; Suzie Q, the horse who taught Brown the meaning of hard work; and of course the beloved and prolific Sneaky Pie, who needs no introduction to her legions of fans. As funny as it is poignant, Animal Magnetism shows how these inspiring creatures can bring out the best in us, restore us to our greater selves, and even save our lives.

Customer Reviews (10)

Radio Interview turned me off to the book
After listening to an interview with her on the radio about her book where she was defending participating in fox hunting, I knew this author hasn't a clue what she is talking about with respect to a connection with animals.No one who loves animals would harass an animal, any animal, as a form of entertainment.Anyone that participates in fox hunting cares more about themselves than animals.Running a wild animal off its territory and forcing it to use its resources to escape this sick human entertainment, when it needs to use its energy to hunt and keep itself alive, is not something anyone who loves animals would participate in.

No way will I read this book and any other new book coming from this author.She is completely banned from my reading list.

Appreciative
I enjoy a book that is well written, informative, entertaining, and heartfelt. This book included all of the above and more.

A wonderful book for animal lovers
In sometimes funny, always heartwarming stories, Brown introduces us to the animals that have touched her life:Franklin, a parrot with a wicked sense of humor; Suzie Q, the horse who taught her the meaning of hard work; Baby Jesus, a tough tiger cat from New York City with an attitude to match; and of course, Sneaky Pie, who needs no introduction to the legions of fans of the Sneaky Pie Brown murder mystery series.Brown shares stories of these animals, and the lessons they taught her.She makes no secret of the fact that she prefers the company of animals to people.As Brown explains, "There's no such thing as a dumb dog, but God knows there are continents filled with dumb humans."By observing the animals on her farm and in her life, Brown has gained insights into herself and other human beings that she shares in her inimitable prose.

As someone who just published a book about the lessons one little cat taught me, this book resonated with me on many levels, but at times, I felt a bit lost in the author's lengthy descriptions of fox hunting.However, even though this is not a topic that is close to my heart, I was captivated by the passion with which Brown describes it, and I gained a better understanding of the practice in the process.You know you're reading a book by a great writer when they can make you keep reading about a topic you didn't think you really cared about!

I loved these words from the book, that perfectly summarize what the book is all about: "I hope you are lifted by the love of a cat, dog, horse, even a parrot... More, I hope you recognize it and return it. ... We are all in this life together.We need one another."

A wonderful book for all animal lovers, as well as fans of Brown's Sneaky Pie Brown and Sister Jane novels.

Ingrid King, Author Buckley's Story

More than just affection.. wisdom
Lessons of love and their intelligence in sensing impending death or trouble are abound in books like A cup of Comfort for Dog Lovers. The author's first lessons from animals she lived with from her childhood are pretty much the same. So we can believe her lessons from her long experience with animals in foxhunting.
The news for me are the ones about dog shows antiquating some breeds by their nature, hunting behavior of owl, fox, listening to the animal, disabled animals being shunned, a child's tears might not get you a toy unless the toy is a suffering animal, hierarchies in herd and pack animals, patience, coat characterstic dependence on heat tolerance.

Not her best book
A so-so book.The parts about her life and animals are good (especially the stories about animals), but she falls into the trap that so many popular writers seem to - they start filling their books with rants and diatribes filled with their political views which is NOT why I read their books.And in her case I disagree with her politics so I really hate it.It gets tiresome really quickly when any author does it and I have dropped many an author off my list because they start doing that.I may have to add her.

Which would be a shame.I love her Sneaky Pie Brown stories (I have a Corgi myself) but the rants are so annoying.

Still, when I skipped over the rants (some longer, some shorter), the parts concerning animals were interesting and, in many cases, moving.Read the book if you are a big Rita Mae Brown fan; pick another one if you aren't.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

Disappointing Rehash
Six of One is superior to Loose Lips. I'd recommend (re-)reading that instead. The characters are more fully drawn, the wit is sharper, and the story is just plain better.

Loose Lips and Chick Flicks
If you enjoy the power of sisterhood, the complexity of women and lots of silly Southern humor, this is the book for you.A downright darn good read (which I did in one day!) with enough silliness and fun to want more.The characters are engaging, irresponsible, rude, brazen, and very likeable.I could read a Loose Lips II just to find out what happened 10 years later.Rita Mae, you are my hero.

Not her best "Runnymede" effort
Rita Mae Brown's unforgettable cast of characters, introduced in Six of One, are brought back to life in her latest novel, Loose Lips. As fans of Juts, Wheezie, and the incomparable Celeste Chalfonte can attest, tales of love and loss, tossed in with unexpected twists and turns, are bountiful anytime this gang gets together.

Six of One introduced Julia and Louise Hunsenmeir, fondly known as Juts and Wheezie, an indomitable pair of quarreling sisters born around the turn-of-the-century in Runnymede, Maryland. The ensemble cast featured Cora, their strong and caring single mother, housekeeper of Celeste; the formidable Celeste Chalfonte, a lesbian without apology, and her lover, the elegantly beautiful Ramelle Bowman; Fairy Thatcher and Fannie Jump Creighton, ever-scheming schoolchums of Celeste; and in later chapters, Chessie and Pearlie, long-suffering husbands of Juts and Wheezie. Spanning almost a century, we watch the madcap life of Juts and Wheezie take them from small tots following their mother around in Celeste's Georgian mansion to the birth of their own children and the mayhem that follows, to Juts and Wheezie as old cronies, still tangling in their 80's.

Continuing the story in Bingo, Brown brings Runnymede back to life with Juts' daughter, Nicole, better known as Nickel. The cast, while still containing Juts and Wheezie as central figures, leaves a bit to be desired when compared to Six of One, and the storyline dwells a bit too much on newer characters who aren't quite as developed. Bingo is a an enjoyable read, but never catches fire like Six of One.

Enter Loose Lips.

In Brown's latest, the storyline picks up in 1941. Juts and Wheezie have entered adulthood, matrimony and maturity - or what resembles maturity for the Hunsenmeir sisters. A war is brewing across the seas, and in Runnymede, where Juts is about to commit an unspeakable act. The book goes in-depth into their lives, giving detail to events briefly mentioned in previous books, such as why Hansford, the girls' vagabond father left Cora, whether Chessie is really a squeaky clean husband, and what Nickel's true parentage is.

While any fan of Runnymede would eagerly anticipate another installment, this reader was a bit disappointed in the latest offering. Granted, the majority of original characters are here. However, there's just something missing from the mix. The girls, while always dramatic, don't shine as they did in previous books, and the mundane aspects of everyday life are more prevalent. Celeste is featured only briefly, Ramelle plays a bit part as well and Cora sparkles but for a moment. Storylines are left hanging. Time passes with segues such as, "Two years passed..." With such events, one feels left out of the story time and again.

Brown misses the mark in Loose Lips, which would have been a wonderful vehicle to enrich already unforgettable characters. With such a colorful past, one would expect the Hunsenmeir sisters and the entire Runnymede cast to be bright fuchsia instead of shimmering pink.

...

Can I move to Runnymeade?
Ahh, small town life! Stradling the Mason-Dixon line, Runnymeade makes it's own rules which suits the main characters perfectly. Lots of colorful characters involved in love, hate, gossip, and typical everyday life. The pages fly by as you get to know everyone and what makes them tick. I love Ms. Brown's style; lots of details that make you want to know "then what happens?", but without being boring or slow moving. I love all three books on those crazy sisters, Juts and Louise! Actually, I think they'd make an awesome tv series or movie, but sometimes things are better left to the imagination. If you haven't had the pleasure of reading Six Of One or Bingo, please do so immediately!

Best of Runnymeade
The third installment in Brown's Runnymeade series is the best written and most thoughtful yet.The human-ness of her characters, their trials and their steadfast attachment to the joy of life is a silken thread through this masterful sequel to "Six of One" and "Bingo."Rather than seeking easy, obvious answers, Brown explores the actions dictated by human nature and strong personalities.Juts and Wheezie are more alive than ever, and the town more deeply defined in its uniqueness.

I heartily recommend this book, and the series.The stories are a wonderful read, like slipping into your most comfy pajamas and having a cup of real hot chocolate in front of the fire on a chilly winter's night.A joyful mixture that will make you laugh, cry and maybe even rage a bit, but will ultimately reaffirm your belief in the strength of the human spirit to enjoy the precious days of our lives. ... Read more

Product Description
In the third novel of her captivating foxhunting series, Rita Mae Brown welcomes readers back for a final tour of a world where most business is conducted on horseback–and stables are de rigueur for even the smallest of estates. Here, in the wealth-studded hills of Jefferson County, Virginia, even evil rides a mount.

The all-important New Year’s Hunt commences amid swirling light snow. It is the last formal hunt of the season; therefore, participation is required no matter how hungover riders are from toasting the midnight before. On this momentous occasion, “Sister” Jane Arnold, master of the foxhounds, announces her new joint master and the new president of the Jefferson Hunt. And her choices will prove to be no less than shocking.

The day’s festivities are quickly marred, though, by what appears on the surface to be an unrelated tragedy. Sam Lorillard, former shining star and Harvard Law School alum, lies dead of a stab wound on a baggage cart at the old train station, surrounded by the outcasts and vagabonds who composed his social circle at the end of life. No one can remember when Sam started drinking, but the downward spiral was swift–and seemingly deadly.

Murder is followed by scandal when Sister Jane discovers dishonest hunting practices going on in a neighboring club. Unsure whether to turn a blind eye or report the infringement to the proper authority, Sister and her huntsman, Shaker Crown, decide to investigate a little further, with the help of their trusty hounds. But when they come a little too close to the staggering truth–and uncover an unforeseen connection to Lorillard’s murder–they realize they might not survive to see the next New Year’s Hunt.

Intricate, witty, and full of the varied voices of creatures both great and small, Full Cry is an astute reminder that even those with the bluest of blood still bleed red.


From the Hardcover edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (40)

Brown's "Full Cry"
I agree wholeheartedly with another reviewer who remarked that Brown should decide if she's going to sermonize or write a mystery.I think she has decided....she's sermonizing.This book wasn't even remotely interesting.A minor mystery was deeply embedded in all Brown's preaching.If you aren't paying attention, it'll slip right past you.
...And I made the mistake of getting "The Hounds and the Fury" at the same time I got "Full Cry."I'm not looking forward to it.

Good Read!
I have been a great fan of Rita Mae Brown (and Speaky Pie Brown) for many years.I am enjoying the Foxhunting Mysteries trementously.I love the characters, the plots, the education I am getting on the sport of fox hunting, and Rita Mae Brown's personal philosophy on many subjects. I highly recommend this series, if you like books that are thought provoking as well as entertaining. Full Cry is the third book in the series.I have read all five of the books now available and am anxiously awaiting the next great story about the Jefferson Hunt Club.

Ridiculous climax
I listened to this on CD in my car...driving around western Virginia.

-The author is not a very good reader...her rhythm/intonation is off...but I didn't mind the flubs at all. It's nice to have a reader that sounds like a real person. And by having her read it, the we avoid the distraction of having the technical terms being pronounced incorrectly. (Although I'm not used to hearing "hooves" rhyming with "moves".)

-It's a matter of taste, but talking animals (or babies, for that matter) have no appeal whatsoever for me. Ugh! And if they did talk, no horse that I've ever ridden would have said, "Are you all right?" when I fell off. I believe they'd say, "Aaaaaaaaah...at last. Hey, there's some grass!"

-Being a woman of a certain age, I liked the Sister character, (although I don't believe she still had her figure at 72). But the denouement---and Sister's actions in it---was utterly improbable and illogical. Gimme a break!

Full Cry //Audio (I almost did)
I have always enjoyed Rita Mae Brown's work. That being said, and yes, thisstory line does wear abit thin, but the worst, unforgivable sin is that she read the story herself.It was awful.Several times she will start a sentence, only to stop and restart after a few words.There was no feeling of character in her voice. Yoy can hear her swallow and clear her throat, so I guess it's the production values that are the biggest offender.

Full Cry
Having read the other books in this fox hunting series, I can say this one is not up to the standard. The plot line is not as well defined as in the other books. It is rather sketchy to be honest.

While Rita Mae Brown fans will probably read it anyway, it is not a book that will draw in new fans. ... Read more

Product Description
Only Rita Mae Brown, author of Rubyfruit Jungle, could have written a novel as passionately delightful as Southern Discomfort.  Here is a witty, warm and pentrating tale of two decades in Montgomery Alabama--a world where all is not what it seems.  Meet Hortensia Reedmuller Banastre, a beautiful woman entrenched on old money, white magnolia and a loveless marriage--until she meets an utterly gorgeous young prizefighter.  Amid such memorable characters as Banana Mae Parker and Blue Rhonda Latrec (two first-class whores) and Reverend Linton Ray (who wears his clerical collar too tightly for anyone's good), Hortensia struggles to survive the hurricane of emotions caused by her scandalous love.  How she ultimately triumphs is a touching and beautiful human drama--an intense and exuberant affair of the heart. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Hilarious!
This book was both hilarious and very sad. It spanned a broad range of topics and emotions. There was a large cast but characters were very easy to get to know and it was easy to form opinions about them. There were several surprises in the book from near the beginning to the very end, some easy to predict and some came as a real suprise to me. Much of it was a real cultural learning experience for me- a New Englander! I would recommend it for the laughter and the tears. It is a fairly fast read, though complex, and I had trouble putting it down.

what book is being reviewed here?
Can anyone tell me why most of the reviews for this Joan Crawford biography are for another book?

Funny, but not Fierce Enough
When "Rubyfruit Jungle" bubbled up from the radical lesbian underground to become a cult best-seller back in 1977, a new literary star was born.As books go it was boisterously funny, unself-pitying, straightforwardly sapphic,eons removed from that old Radclyffe Hall, "Well of Loneliness," love-that-dare-not-speak-its-name genre.It left readers wanting more.

So "Southern Discomfort"was more, but also less: it's a skinny book.It's a romance set earlier in the century in Montgomery, Alabama; and skinny though it is, it's generous in the ways that count.Just bursting with fanciful characters, unorthodox sexual couplings, preposterous happenings.It's even funnier than "Rubyfruit Jungle," as it's not so autobiographical, and its canvas is bigger.It gives us more of Brown's talent for establishing place, and elucidating the ties that bind.It demonstrates her knack for making the bizarre seem appropriate, and for delivering it in an understated "isn't all the world like this" style.

Plainly, while Brown's an avowed lesbian and lesbian themes are important to her, she's also working in the popular Southern Gothic style, as exemplified by Flannery O'Connor and others.

Brown's rendition of Montgomery, Alabama, its mores, its minor characters, and its annual Halloween Great Witch Hunt is delicious.We learn that "people could tell you that an Orange captain of 1835 went on to become a Confederate colonel, or a Black captain of 1852 made a fortune in railroads.As it turned out, most captains did well in this world: a few degenerated into drunks or scoundrels, but not many. Lila Reedmuller was Orange captain of 1891.She was one of the four girls ever chosen for that honor, and Lila went on to reign over Montgomery society...."

And we meet Blue Rhonda Latrec, who "was eighteen years old and at the top of her profession.She was a first-class whore.On this hot day she plopped her butt on the front stoop of her small frame dwelling on Water Street.Blue Rhonda considered herself fortunate in her location, as the train station was just down the road.From the mouth of that beautiful structure poured a steady stream of new customers...."

"Southern Discomfort" is an entertaining book, but Brown often pulled her punches.With a little more courage, she could be delivering top-flight Southern Gothic,which, at its best, needs ferocious conviction.

If you read one, you know you must read them all
Southern Discomfort is pure delight that is enhanced by author Rita Mae Brown�s wit, wacky characters, wild tales, and wonderful writing style. Southern Discomfort spans two decades in Montgomery, AL, in which beautiful, old-money Hortensia (married) meets the man of her dreams: a spectacularly gorgeous young prizefighter. You�ve got your small-town scandal, complete with Banana Mae and Blue Rhonda, a couple of high-class whores. Wonderful writing accents this surprisingly touching story.

A little different than the other R.M.B. i've read...
This book was a little different than the other Rita Mae Brown books i've read, but just as enjoyable.
It takes place during the 20's in a southern town... and tells the story of people from all walks of life - blacks, the wealthy whites, and some white prostitutes.She tells the story of each group of people in a very authentic way and gives each group a sense of pride.And of course... the stories mingle as the characters begin mingling outside theor social circles.
The way i'd say this book was different than some of her others (and i've read about 10), is that it's more... well... more like a soap opera.(along the lines of V.C. Andrews).There is incestual sex, illigitamate pregnancies, etc.
This book was definately fun to read though... and has a beautiful message... ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Mrs Murphy
I always enjoy a Mrs Murphy mysteries.
they are very enjoyable. and I like it when the animals make comments

cat mysteries
my favorite cat mysteries serious.love this author, own all of her cat who mysteries written today.prompt shipping, and great packaging.

A "Tail" of Intrigue
In the 4th book in the Mrs. Murphy and Tucker mystery series, a mysterious stranger has ridden into the sleepy town of Crozet, Virginia. Rumbling in on a motorcycle, the appearance of the man yelling for "Malibu" startles the small town, and they try to insist to the man that no woman by that name resides in the area. Even though the residents of Crozet are curious, they have other things on their minds. The town is worried about a computer virus, Threadneedle, that is supposed to hit businesses on August 1st. When a huge sum of money goes missing from the local bank, everyone assumes that the bank has fallen victim to the computer virus. Everyone scrambles at the bank to locate the missing funds, and when the biker is found murdered, pieces of the puzzle start to fall together. And when Harry and her two famous animal sleuths get involved in the case, you can be sure that she will find and apprehend the culprit.

I have become a big fan of this series, and really enjoy the banter between the animals. The relationships between the members of the town have been evolving, and I like the way that Harry is loved and embraced by the people who have known her all of her life. She works hard, cares for her animals, and genuinely cares for the town and its residents. I look forward to future books in the series, and am hopeful to see more of a love interest for Harry.

If you enjoy "The Cat Who" mysteries by Lilian Jackson Braun, you might want to give this series a try.

The first book in the series is called "Wish You Were Here". Enjoy!

A "Tail" of Intrigue
In the 4th book in the Mrs. Murphy and Tucker mystery series, a mysterious stranger has ridden into the sleepy town of Crozet, Virginia.Rumbling in on a motorcycle, the appearance of the man yelling for "Malibu" startles the small town, and they try to insist to the man that no woman by that name resides in the area.Even though the residents of Crozet are curious, they have other things on their minds.The town is worried about a computer virus, Threadneedle, that is supposed to hit businesses on August 1st.When a huge sum of money goes missing from the local bank, everyone assumes that the bank has fallen victim to the computer virus.Everyone scrambles at the bank to locate the missing funds, and when the biker is found murdered, pieces of the puzzle start to fall together.And when Harry and her two famous animal sleuths get involved in the case, you can be sure that she will find and apprehend the culprit.

I have become a big fan of this series, and really enjoy the banter between the animals.The relationships between the members of the town have been evolving, and I like the way that Harry is loved and embraced by the people who have known her all of her life.She works hard, cares for her animals, and genuinely cares for the town and its residents.I look forward to future books in the series, and am hopeful to see more of a love interest for Harry.

If you enjoy "The Cat Who" mysteries by Lilian Jackson Braun, you might want to give this series a try.

The first book in the series is called "Wish You Were Here".Enjoy!

Not That Bad, I Guess, but Not That Good Either!
I know what I'm in for when I read a Sneaky Pie Brown book, so I shouldn't have been surprised with this one.It's the usual fare - murders in Crozet and all the citizens getting involved in trying to find the murderer.Then there's Tucker and Mrs. Murphy (Harry's pets) who always seem to figure things out before the humans do.These books are definitely of the "cozy" genre, and the characters themselves are quirky enough to make them interesting, but the stories are a little silly.I always figure out who the murderer is right at the very beginning of the book, and then there's usually one or two more murders after that, so as I read I wait for them to happen.In this book we have a dead biker first, and then some shenanigans at the local bank that seem to be connected with the dead biker.I will continue to read this series for the characters (for a time anyway). ... Read more

Product Description
Rita Mae Brown and her inseparable co-author, that fabulous feline Sneaky Pie Brown, are together again in this triple-threat collection of mystery and manners, southern-style.In fact, the first three novels in the Browns' Mrs. Murphy bestselling mystery series are reprinted here in their entirety.Whether you are already familiar with the detective work of postmistress Mary Minor "Harry" Haristeen and her tiger cat Mrs. Murphy or are new to the team, you are sure to be intrigued by their unique approach.It's murder with a touch of whimsy, all set in the cozy hamlet of Crozet, Virginia.Meet Harry's friends, neighbors...and suspects--folks like notorious society vamp Boom Boom Craycroft in Rest in Pieces, or the nice Miranda Hogendobber in Murder at Monticello, and get a good taste of Brown's wickedly observant take on manners below the Mason-Dixon line.Cat lovers, mystery aficionados, and anyone who might like an armchair visit to a delightful old town down South, is sure to enjoy these witty, cleverly-plotted tales of suspense. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Rita Mae Brown series
The book I received was in great condition. I really like this series of books and was glad to get three stories in one book for a great price. Thank you!

who knew?
I had never read Ms. Brown.I'm glad
I finally did.Her writing is straight
forward and I like the animal's thoughts
as part of the story.I like
suspense dramas and these stories
keep me interested in "who done it?"
And although the small town
setting might seem idyllic, Ms. Brown
keeps it real by introducing less than
perfect characters.

I will probably go on to read a few more
of her stories.

Great book!I especially like the animal communication.
This is a great book.Well written and an easy read.I think this book would be great for all ages, teen and up, who likes a good mystery.The animals communicate with each other and with other animals throughout the stories.You definately want to read the books in order, though.One story refers to the ones before it.All in all, I'm glad I bought them and am looking forward to finishing this one and getting the next book of 3 stories in the series.

get the mrs murphy story from the beginning
the first three mrs murphy storys all in one edition at a bargin price

3 Great Books Together!
In "Wish You Were Here", we meet Mary Minor Haristeen (aka Harry) and Mrs. Murphy (a tiger cat) and Tee Tucker (a Welsh corgi).Harry is recently divorced and a postmistress in Crozet, Virginia a very small town.She has grown up there, and finds it difficult adjusting to life as a divorcee' in such a small town.Half of the town is on her side, the other half on the side of her ex, Fair Haristeen, a beloved local vet.It also doesn't help that Harry is constantly seeing Boom Boom Craycroft, the other woman who broke up her marriage.But working in the town's post office with her pets each day does offer its own diversions.One such diversion is reading post cards...something Harry has always done.When 2 prominent business people are killed after receiving graveyard postcards reading "wish you were here", Harry realizes there is a pattern to the killing.And when a good friend receives one, Harry springs into action to stop the killer in his/her tracks.

In "Rest In Pieces", the animals once again play a huge role in solving a murder. The main character, Mary Minor Haristeen (aka Harry), along with her two animal friends Mrs. Murphy (a gray tiger cat) and Tucker (a corgi) lead the way. When newcomer, Blair Bainbridge, rolls into town a lot of folks in Crozet, Virginia believe that trouble rolled in with him. The handsome bachelor turns many female heads, and Harry tries to convince herself that she has sworn off men since her divorce. When pieces of a dead body are found on Blair's property, tongues start to wag. And when more pieces of the body are discovered during the Harvest Ball, a tragic event from Blair's past comes back to haunt him. Has this "Yankee" brought murder to this sleepy small-town?

Having just finished reading the first book in the series, I admit it was much easier for me to follow the dialogue between the animals in this second installment. At first, I had a difficult time following the discussions between the animals, as it adds to the already large cast of characters. However, I adore the way the animals speak to one another! Their antics are charming, and I find that it adds a lot to this great series.

The mystery had me guessing until the end. Normally, I am able to figure out the mysteries pretty quickly (as many cozies give a lot of clues), but I was surprised at the ending. This is a great series, and I look forward to reading the extensive collection of books by this author (and Sneaky Pie, of course!).

In "Murder at Monticello", a body has been discovered in the slave quarters of the home of Thomas Jefferson. Since Jefferson has been dead for 170 years, it is impossible to question him about the man found dead from a blow to the dead. And when another recently murdered body is discovered, it becomes apparent that someone wants the secrets that have been buried with the body to remain so. Coming into question is the practice of slavery, and the descendants of Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson had been rumored to have fathered a child by one of his slaves, and it appears that the man found murdered may have been also been involved with one of the slaves. The citizens of Crozet band together to prove that their beloved Jefferson had nothing to do with the murder or cover-up, and while doing so they unearth secrets that have been hidden in the town for over a century.

I have become a big fan of this series, and enjoy the banter between the animals. The relationships between the members of the town have been evolving, and I like the way that Harry is loved and embraced by the people who have known her all of her life. She works hard, cares for her animals, and genuinely cares for the town and its residents. I look forward to future books in the series, and am hopeful to see more of Blair as a potential love interest for Harry.

If you like the KoKo and Yum Yum series by Lilian Jackson Braun, give this book a try.Enjoy!

... Read more

Customer Reviews (18)

A captivating tale - Rita Mae and Sneaky Pie are quite the writing duo!
When you live in a town as small as Crozet, Virginia, everyone is privy to your private affairs. No one knows that better than postmistress Mary Minor "Harry" Haristeen. After a bad divorce with resident veterinarian Pharamond "Fair" Haristeen, thanks to the affair he had with Virginia's very own vixen, BoomBoom Craycroft, Harry's life was put on display. But she's a strong woman, determined to prove to the folks of Crozet that she's quite happy without Fair, and doing well on her own. But the appearance of newcomer Blair Bainbridge in town makes her wonder if she's ready to hop back into the relationship boat.

Since being cheated on by her ex-husband, Fair, Harry is taking a sabbatical from men. She's quite content spending her days tending her farm, and working at the post office where she has a bird's eye view of all of her neighbors. When city slicker Blair Bainbridge arrives in town, however, Harry can't help but wonder if, perhaps, something could happen between the two. Blair is handsome and rugged, but he's also a kind soul who needs a lot of help learning the way farm's work. As a courteous neighbor, Harry is more than happy to show him the ropes. But not everyone in Crozet is so trusting of the newcomer. When pieces of a dismembered body begin springing up around Crozet, people begin questioning Blair's arrival. After all, things were always quaint, cozy, carefree, and safe within the Crozet city limits until Blair arrived. Now a dismembered corpse has popped up, and no one knows who it belongs to. With Christmas right around the corner, not many are interested in dwelling on the evil surrounding them. Except for Harry. Harry can't help but feel that something is quite amiss within Crozet, and she's determined to find out what, exactly, is going on - even if just to clear Blair's name. With the terrific tabby, Mrs. Murphy, along with the cuddly Welsh Corgi, Tee Tucker, by her side, Harry feels that the trio is more than enough manpower to finger the culprit. But when another body turns up - this one closer to home - Harry begins to realize that she's treading unsafe waters, and will have to watch her back, or else she may be the next Crozet citizen who ends up dead and buried.

I have been reading Rita Mae Brown's MRS. MURPHY mysteries for over ten years; but, having not started from the beginning, I had never read REST IN PIECES. If only I would have known what I was missing, I would have read it years ago. Harry seems even more fiery, spirited, and brazen within the pages of REST IN PIECES than she does in later additions to the series. She seems so youthful, and, perhaps, more carefree. While Harry's divorce from Fair is much more prevalent in REST IN PIECES, because the wounds of his whole affair are still opened, it never overshadows the story. In fact, it presents a nice bit of history that only makes the reader like Harry more. Mrs. Murphy and Tee Tucker are their usual adorable, bickering, nosy selves; and the inclusion of Simon the opossum is simply delightful, as he is so sweet and cute. The Crozet characters are both humorous and bitter - depending on when you encounter them - but their little town feels like home to the reader, and is a wonderful place to stop by every now and then. A captivating tale - Rita Mae and Sneaky Pie are quite the writing duo!

Erika Sorocco
Freelance Reviewer

Contains Profanity
I have searched far and wide for a good cozy mystery without profanity and failed again.Profanity is reference to religious matters in a frivolous way -- taking the Lord's name in vain.
Otherwise, I liked the writing; it flows well:you do not have to diagram the sentences to make sense of them.
The book was entertaining.
Some of the minute, boring details of the halloween party and the fox hunt made me think that the author was struggling to get a required number of words or pages.A lot of the animal dialogue seems to serve the same purpose.The story could have been better told in 200 pages.
I will not buy any of her other books because of the profanity which I abhor.I wish she would choose to write without it because I think she is a talented writer.

Pieces of Mystery...
In the 2nd book in the Mrs. Murphy and Tucker mystery series, the animals once again play a huge role in solving a murder.The main character, Mary Minor Haristeen (aka Harry), along with her two animal friends Mrs. Murphy (a gray tiger cat) and Tucker (a corgi) lead the way.When newcomer, Blair Bainbridge, rolls into town a lot of folks in Crozet, Virginia believe that trouble rolled in with him.The handsome bachelor turns many female heads, and Harry tries to convince herself that she has sworn off men since her divorce.When pieces of a dead body are found on Blair's property, tongues start to wag.And when more pieces of the body are discovered during the Harvest Ball, a tragic event from Blair's past comes back to haunt him.Has this "Yankee" brought murder to this sleepy small-town?

Having just finished reading the first book in the series, I admit it was much easier for me to follow the dialogue between the animals in this second installment.At first, I had a difficult time following the discussions between the animals, as it adds to the already large cast of characters.However, I adore the way the animals speak to one another!Their antics are charming, and I find that it adds a lot to this great series.

The mystery had me guessing until the end.Normally, I am able to figure out the mysteries pretty quickly (as many cozies give a lot of clues), but I was surprised at the ending.This is a great series, and I look forward to reading the extensive collection of books by this author (and Sneaky Pie, of course!).

If you like the KoKo and Yum Yum series by Lilian Jackson Braun, give this book a try.

The first book in the series is called "Wish You Were Here".Enjoy!

As True a Picture You'll Get of Folks from a Small Town.
I enjoyed this second book in the Mrs. Murphy series much more than the first, and the main reason for that is that the author has painted a true-to-life picture of what it's like to live in the country and in a small town.I certainly could see parallels to my own life in the descriptions of country living and folks helping others.Also, I didn't find the animals as distracting this time (maybe because I knew what to expect this time round).Anyway, the mystery in this book is a good one and it will keep you guessing until the end.In it we get to know Harry a little better, as well as her numerous wonderful friends.Ms. Brown does a good job of characterization for her somewhat eccentric cast of characters.The story starts with various human body parts showing up in very strange places.It certainly puts the citizens of Crozon on the alert and sets the stage for more murder and mayhem.All in all a pretty good read.

The adventure continues
Rest in Pieces, the second in the Mrs. Murphy mystery series, begins when Blair Bainbridge, a male model, moves into Crozet.The cast of female characters immediately begin to matchmake, particularly with Mary Minor "Harry" Harristeen, postmistress and recently divorced.But as has become the norm in the small town, murder gets in the way of everyone's plans.It all begins when Tee Tucker, Harry's corgi, finds a body part in the family burial plot on Blair's farm.

As the mystery unfolds, the readers learn more and more about Harry, her neighbors, and their pets.At the top of the pyramid are Marilyn Sanburne and her recently married daughter, Little Marilyn.Although not a marriage of love, at first, she and Fitz-Gilbert have come to care for each other in a short time.But as usual in Crozet, things are not as they appear.

While no one in the small town wants to believe that one of them is a murderer, another body turns up.Each is beginning to believe he or shee may be in danger.But why?The end is surprising and satisfying.This is a good quick read and leads the reader into the next in the series. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (31)

Great Read
This is just a fun series. When looking for easy, enjoyable reading with lots of characters this is a good series to read.

Catch as Cat Can/ DWP
For all lovers of Rita Mae Brown and Ms. Murphy this is one of the best.

my favorite of the series
This book really has an interesting plot and moves along with it.It is much more a mystery than usual and I enjoyed it very much. Of course there are the usual antics of the animals - they are endearing.I almost always pick up one of these books when I've had it with the world and want something comfortable to slip into.This one's a particular pleasure.

It's spring in Crozet.
It's finally spring in Crozet, Virginia, but the weather is as unsettled as some of the happenings in this little town.There appears to be a lot of deaths - one looked like natural causes, one looked like suicide and one was murder, but as Harry and her pals delve deeper into the mire, it appears that the deaths are all connected and they were all murder.This book moves along at a pretty swift pace, and we have lots of hijinks with the fabulous thres pets as well as more contact with our old friends in Crozet.This is a great cozy series, and because of that we get to become good friends with the good citizens of Crozet.But there's sure a lot of crime in this piece of Virginia!

Catch As Catch Can
Love Sneaky Pie and friend.Wish I could live in Crozet and be one of the group.Maybe better wish I could be one of the animals.They are funny, endearing and totally wonderful. ... Read more

Product Description
Bawdy and moving, the ultimate word-of-mouth bestseller, RubyfruitJungle is about growing up a lesbian in America--and living happilyever after. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (77)

Not Impressed
I'm sure this book was earth-shaking and socially significant when it was published, but.... I thought it was boring, with a very unlikable protagonist.

Molly Bolt is supposed to be smart and sassy, but she comes across as cruel and condescending. The entire book is about her sexual (mis)adventures, not her accomplishments or personal growth.

Does anybody still consider this character a 'heroine'?
This book is historically significant, but as modern literature we need to put this one to bed.The central character has no empathy, capacity to love or even hold a meaningful relationship with anybody, yet women keep throwing themselves at her left and right?I couldn't care less about what happens to her, and even if she does make her dreams and desires come true, there will be no one there to celebrate with her if she does.An empty, hollow book with a 'heroine' I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.

A Book Chockfull of Fun, Fearlessness, and Strength
The first time I read Rubyfruit Jungle, I was about 12 and because my mother had signed the permission slip at the NY Public Library I was able to gain access to the Young Adult and Adult sections. This was the first book I'd ever read that had a main character who was a lesbian. The notion just blew my mind! Rita Mae Brown (the author) took me on a wild ride with her character Molly as she grows up the bastard (or rather adopted) daughter of a poor country family. One of the things I love most about Molly is how sure she is of herself. She's strong willed as a child--the struggles between her and her mother are really exciting and tense, willing and open to explore her sexuality as a teenager, and straightforward and no holds barred as a young woman, Molly only gets better as she gets older.

Reading this back in the early 90's was definitely an experience because back then lesbian literature was few and far between. Rubyfruit Jungle held so many secrets of what it was like to be female and gay. I can remember hiding this book for fear that my mother would find it and think I was a lesbian too. But sadly as an adult, the allure was gone. Maybe it's because I'm a jaded New Yorker where being gay isn't a stigma and Molly's experience has been sort of deflated by all the other writing that followed it.

For me, a book like this must be read when you really don't have a clear understanding of the world you live in. The reader has to be naive to put it plainly. As I think this book is meant to be an eye-opener for those who only know one side of the coin. Reading it as a young girl definitely had my heart pounding, made me blush and laugh out loud and want to share it with the world. Reading it as an adult was still an experience, and while it didn't move me as much, it did give make me reminisce about the young girl I was and how my innocence played such an important role in how I responded to literature. What I wouldn't give to be young again!

What can I say?
I did not know when the Amazon tag popped up prompting that I could buy two of Rita Mae Brown's books together that this was a book about lesbians.I was not looking to read a book about a personal struggle because of being a lesbian.I was looking for another Sneaky Pie Brown mystery.Not really fair of Amazon to do this.Now I am getting all of these book recommendations on my page for books about the same topic, not happy.

Interesting Account of 1960 Society's Bias Against Homosexuality [91]
Written in the early 1970's, this book's topic is far less shocking to the 21st century reader than it would be to even the most liberal-minded person emerging from the revolutionary 1960's.

The auto-biographically depicted protagonist, Molly Bolt, allows us to follow her life from 11 years of age through her graduation from college.We jump from Pennsylvania to Florida to the Big Apple.And, in the end, she feels betrayed or unaccepted by each city for the simple rule of thumb: she is a woman.Some of the places discriminate mainly because of her sex, others for her sexuality.

As you proceed to read this book, you wonder what one would ever think is wrong with a child of such promise.She is a star student and athlete (college as well as high school), leads people in student government, and really does not step on other people's toes. But, when she speaks her mind, she becomes besieged by prejudices which even she could not fathom would be thrust against her.

To the 21st century reader, the horrible experience in Gainesville, Florida may top the list.It is there that she is institutionalized and reviewed by psychiatrists for her mental problem of lesbianism.No shock therapy or eternal imprisonment.Gainesville is not the Gulag.But, like the Gulag, her sexual decisions are deemed inappropriate - hence upon her release she also loses her scholarship. Gainesville is a Gulag with a lower case "g?"

This angel is not always a dear one.Toward the end of the book she seeks to seduce a middle aged assistant professor, Polina, whose curiosity leads them to an affair.Polina then thrusts this bright young woman to her daughter for intellectual growth, but the teenage daughter seeks the opportunity for sexual experimentation.Molly obliges.While this is happening, Molly intentionally stumbles upon Polina's extra-marital lover, and coyly grabs his attention and seduces him.With friends (let alone lovers) like Molly, Polina needs no enemies.The result of the disclosure is too obvious.

But, the book leads the readers to understand that all lesbians are not biker chicks with bad haircuts and farmer's clothing.Molly is petite and certainly pretty whose physical self attracts most everyone - and the exploits divulged in this book establish that her good looks attract most everyone - cheerleaders, housewives, black sex goddesses, movie stars, football running backs, professors, and precocious children of Manhattan.

She understands that she is not understood. "Either way you get gored." The liberals had their "make love not war" agenda - not her agenda of freedom of with whom one can make love.The feminists had their agenda for equality of the sexes - not equality of sexuality.The hippies had their revolution - devoid of her sexual revolution.She was a progressive wandering the streets of Manhattan without an army.

But, in the end, she understood what to do and what not to do - to a certain degree.This book stands as a cry to the American readers of her call for reform of the biases placed by society against people of her sexual proclivity. And, this book is ananthem calling upon the masses to listen to her and make her call become society'sdecree.To a certain extent she may have succeeded. ... Read more

Product Description
The annual steeplechase races at Montpelier, once the home of James and Dolley Madison, are the high point in the social calendar of the horse-mad Virginians of cozy Crozet. The race meet offers a cracking good time with old friends and a chance to get even--on the racecourse--with old enemies. Postmistress Mary Minor "Harry" Haristeen will be in the thick of the action on this day of high spirits and fierce competition. But the glorious thoroughbreds and the pinks and greens and purples worn by the riders do not blind Harry to the dangerous undercurrents that start to surface. There's sure to be some emotional fireworks at Montpelier. Still, no one expects the day to end in tragedy.

Found dead in the main barn is one of the day's riders, a knife plunged through the jockey's heart. The only clue is a playing card, the Queen of Clubs, impaled over the fatal wound. Within the wealthy, tight-knit world of horse owners, trainers, and jockeys, the victim had both admirers and enemies.

Was the murderer's motive greed, drugs--a pervasive evil in the race world--or sexual rivalry? Luckily for Crozet's humans, the tiger cat Mrs. Murphy is right at home in the stable yard...and on the trail of the shocking truth. But will Harry catch on in time to stop a killer grown bloodthirsty with success?

In Murder, She Meowed Sneaky Pie Brown and her co-author, Rita Mae Brown, have penned another clever and sassy mystery that probes the depths of human depravity and the heights of feline genius.Amazon.com Review
The slicing Southern wit of Rita Mae Brown takes a slightly differenttenor in this tale, claimed to be co-authored by Brown's cat, Sneaky Pie.There's also the voices of cats, dogs, horses, and mice in this tale, andthings get fishy when several horse racing jockeys are murdered with daggersto the heart. Good thing the cat Mrs. Murphy is involved--"The day wethink like humans we're in trouble," she says--who rallies her friendsto go digging around and figure out what the humans can't. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

I couldn't put it down!
What a great book!I love Rita Mae Brown's casual writing style.She really has a grasp of what everyday folk speak and act like, even in situations that aren't everyday.This is a great mystery, fun and exciting!This mystery has it all: money, gambling, betrayal, drugs, and of course, intriguing murders.It all starts at the racetrack where Harry and her friends are in attendance.A murder occurs, then another, and Mrs. Murphy and Tee Tucker just can't keep their noses out of it!They employ the help of Pewter, another cat, and even a racehorse Orion.

As an animal communicator, I always say that we ought to listen to the animals.And in this case, that's absolutely vital.While the humans try to solve this mystery, Mrs. Murphy and her animal friends are hot on the trail, solving it right along with them.The book's main showdown happens--where else?--at the local church.Harry knows who the killer is and goes to warn the sheriff, but her emotions get the better of her and she publicly accuses the killer.In all the drama and commotion, it's hard to say if they'll all get out of there alive!

I don't want to spoil the mystery, but this one is definitely a page-turner.Very funny, short chapters, an overall easy read!

Funny, my favorite so far
I've been reading the Mrs. Brown books in order.This one, the fifth, is my favorite so far.I found it to be funnier than the earlier books.A character named Boom Boom who pops in and out of the action, trying to get Harry to go with her to a pop therapy group called Lifeline; Mrs. Murphy negotiating with the mice to get information from them; Mrs. Murphy musing on the food chain and mice as prey; the animals comments on the humans....all were entertaining to me.The negative reviews posted earlier give a good clue I think as to who won't like this novel."Murder, She Meowed" is not only a mystery "cozy"; it is also a bit of whimsy, of silliness.Like children's books, it includes a story, and some substantive information and some philosophizing are included, but if you can't tolerate the whimsy, you won't like the book.

Murder at the Races!
The 5th installment in the Mrs. Murphy and Tucker Mystery series is going to the races. Mary Minor Haristeen (aka Harry) has been asked to be a fence judge for the Montpelier steeplechase race, and being a huge fan of the sport, she readily agrees. She is a witness to a violent confrontation between two jockeys, and when one of the jockeys is found dead later in the day, she quickly begins to suspect that this was not a simple misunderstanding. The murderer leaves a calling card, and when another jockey turns up dead with a similar card attached to the body, Harry fears that there may be at least two more victims. Along with help from Mrs. Murphy (a tiger cat), Tee Tucker (a Welsh corgi), Pewter (a fat grey cat), and some new animal characters (including mice, several cats, and horses), Harry is able to stop this murderous spree in the competitive world of steeplechase.

I have become a big fan of this series, and really enjoy the banter between the animals. The relationships between the members of the town have been evolving, and I like the way that Harry is loved and embraced by the people who have known her all of her life. She works hard, cares for her animals, and genuinely cares for the town and its residents. I look forward to future books in the series, and am hopeful to see more of a love interest for Harry. The setting in the town of Crozet, Virginia is so quaint and lovely, that it makes you want to pack your bags for a wonderful vacation.

If you enjoy "The Cat Who" mysteries by Lilian Jackson Braun, you might want to give this series a try.

The first book in the series is called "Wish You Were Here". Enjoy!

Murder at the Races
The 5th installment in the Mrs. Murphy and Tucker Mystery series is going to the races.Mary Minor Haristeen (aka Harry) has been asked to be a fence judge for the Montpelier steeplechase race, and being a huge fan of the sport, she readily agrees.She is a witness to a violent confrontation between two jockeys, and when one of the jockeys is found dead later in the day, she quickly begins to suspect that this was not a simple misunderstanding.The murderer leaves a calling card, and when another jockey turns up dead with a similar card attached to the body, Harry fears that there may be at least two more victims.Along with help from Mrs. Murphy (a tiger cat), Tee Tucker (a Welsh corgi), Pewter (a fat grey cat), and some new animal characters (including mice, several cats, and horses), Harry is able to stop this murderous spree in the competitive world of steeplechase.

I have become a big fan of this series, and really enjoy the banter between the animals. The relationships between the members of the town have been evolving, and I like the way that Harry is loved and embraced by the people who have known her all of her life. She works hard, cares for her animals, and genuinely cares for the town and its residents. I look forward to future books in the series, and am hopeful to see more of a love interest for Harry.The setting in the town of Crozet, Virginia is so quaint and lovely, that it makes you want to pack your bags for a wonderful vacation.

If you enjoy "The Cat Who" mysteries by Lilian Jackson Braun, you might want to give this series a try.

The first book in the series is called "Wish You Were Here". Enjoy!

Lots of fun
I have all the Mrs. Murphy mysteries.They are lots of fun to read and are a real diversion from True Crime (which I also like).The setting is in the beautiful Virginia horse country, the characters are delightful, the mystery always engaging. Start with "Wish You Were Hear" to see how it all began. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

book club read
overall the book club didn't like it.seems like an early attempt at writing.rmb is much better now.

Rita Mae
If your lookingh at this maybe you know Ritas work absolutely fantastic and she does it again.Just perfect!

Great story on the May-December relationship
This book is a bit slow to start, but after you get into the characters, you begin to see a wonderful display of what happens in a May-December relationship (one much older than the other).Throughout the story, you are given equal information about both sides, what they are feeling and how thier totally different lives feed off of each other, that is until they are in the bedroom.That is where they put aside their differences.A good read, a great storyline, and another brilliant book from Rita Mae Brown.

Have you made the acquaintance of Rita Mae Brown yet?
Have you made the acquaintance of Rita Mae Brown yet?
In her day is Rita Mae Brown's 2nd novel, and it's a goodie, full of quirky characters, cracking wit, wicked humor - and also full of love for her fellow flawed humans. Brown, for those who don't know, is lesbian, and she's at her best dealing with characters who come up against surprising twists in their own sexual yearnings.
Okay. In Her Day deals with Carole (with an `e'), a cerebral art history professor who is cool, cool, cool until she bangs smack dab into Ilse, a feminist in full battle regalia. Romance, shall we say, ensues. But there's trouble due to the fact that Ilse is significantly younger then Carole, so there are generational issues to resolve in the feminism wars.
...It's great.
Read it.

Not Good
"In Her Day" is feminism at her worst. The story follows the romantic tryst between Isle, a 20-something activist zealously fighting the cause for women's rights, and Carole, the experienced, 40-something art professor who has figured out how to choose her battles wisely. Together the two argue women's ideologies. That's about it. Add a cast of quirky-but- lackluster characters and you've got a novel doesn't amount to much. There was just too much opinion and not enough emotion. There was nothing human about the characters that made me care about them. Definitely not a good read as I labored through it far longer than I should. ... Read more

Product Description
Rita Mae Brown and her literary feline sidekick Sneaky Pie Brown are back with a third omnibus of clever sleuthing by postmistress Mary Minor "Harry" Haristeen and her feline sidekick Mrs. Murphy. For the first time all in one volume, here are CAT ON THE SCENT, PAWING THROUGH THE PAST, and CLAWS AND EFFECT, three more prime examples of charm and murder co-existing in the lovely hamlet of Crozet, Virginia.

In CAT ON THE SCENT, the good people of Crozet are quite excited about their upcoming Civil War battle reenactment until things get a little too authentic when a soldier ends up with three very real bullets in his back.

Someone has waited twenty years to take revenge in PAWING THROUGH THE PAST. Crozet High's Class of 1980 is about to have its twentieth reunion--but one classmate is looking forward to it for the wrong reasons. Each member of the class receives a note saying “You'll never get old,” but it becomes clear this is more threat than compliment when a classmate turns up dead with a bullet between his eyes.

The juicy gossip from Crozet Hospital has everyone entertained in CLAWS AND EFFECT--until its source is found murdered. Mrs. Murphy sniffs out a dirty little secret that dates back to the days of the Underground Railroad, and she has to protect Harry from a coldly calculating killer with a prescription for murder. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

I'm Hooked
This omnibus edition is awesome.Instead of the teeny type size in the individual paperback versions, I got to enjoy larger type size in a sturdy format.Better, yet - I got three titles in one volume, so this one book provided a continuous stream of enjoyment.For lovers of this series, I highly recommend this format.

Cozy Mysteries
The Third Three Mrs. Murphy Mysteries in One Volume: Cat on the Scent; Pawing Through the Past; Claws and Effect (Mrs. Murphy Mysteries) I really enjoyed reading these 3 books. The atmosphere created in these stories is cozy and makes you feel if you are part of it. Great for animal lovers, as not only are the cats part of the story, but a dog, horses, a possum, an owl, a black snake and sometimes even the mice play a role in Rita Mae & Sneaky Pie Brown's books.
Highly recommend it if you are looking for a book that relaxes and entertains you!

The Third Three Mrs. Murphy Mysteries in One Volume: Cat on the Scent; Pawing Through the Past; Claws and Effect (Mrs. Murphy My
I found this series of mysteries by chance too.Having exhausted the series of Joe Gray Mysteries, and then The Cat Who mysteries, I found these.

It is amazing how all three authors write using the same theme but so differently. In this series, the cats and the dog (corgi) do talk to each other but cannot be understood by their pet humans. and they find this very frustrating, but loving their humans they go on until they are able to make them see the answers that they need to see.

There were times I laughed out loud when reading the comments between Murphey (cat) and Tucker (dog) because having 3 kitties and a jack russel, I can very well accept that we have heard these comments from them in animal language and just not realised it. :)

great book, great series, and I have exhausted this series now too. ... Read more

Product Description
5 cassettes, 7.25 hours, ... Read more

Customer Reviews (23)

Slow Going
THE HUNT BALL by Rita Mae Brown is slow going after the previous three in the series. This one has more information about the sport of fox hunting and the differences between English and American editions of the sport.
A murder that is shocking when a Halloween effigy turns out to be the body of the chief fund raiser for an exclusive girls school.
"Sister" Jane Arnold, master of the Jefferson Hunt has the help of the animals that surround her, but things are fuddled by humans who have lost their understanding. A fun read, which has the deepest insights into human behavior expressed by the foxes.
Nash Black, SINS OF THE FATHERS.

The Hunt Ball
Rita Mae Brown writes a sparkling mystery that takes place in the world of Virginia fox hunting society. This is a unique setting, with well-off to wealthy people that keep horses on their estates. The hunting season is in the winter, so the riding and the jumps are dangerously exciting.

The animals converse with more style than the humans do in this story. Like the black fox, Inky, and her daughter Georgia, talking about human ideas on the afterlife:

"Some believe they go up to the sky and play harps. Other think they go to paradise and have forty virgins if they die a martyr's death," Inky wryly commented. "And then there are those who think they come back in some other form at some other time."

"We could have been humans?" Georgia thought out loud.

"I don't know. They call it reincarnation, and if it's true and a human comes back as a fox, it would be a step up, " Inky confidently replied.

The foxes, by the way, are not killed. In fact the main character, Sister, feeds the foxes in the wintertime when food is scarce. She even includes de-worming medication when needed.

Sister is the master of hounds, which means she breeds and raises a number of foxhounds, and she trains them to hunt. She is the person in charge during the hunt, and the position is a responsibility she takes seriously. And as if all this weren't enough, there is murder most foul at a local exclusive girls' school.

And very soon, Sister is on the scent of the murderer.

I like this series because it takes me into a world I never knew about. There are enough twists and turns to keep reading, right on through. As a dyed in the fur animal lover, I find the conversations among dogs, horses, foxes, and even Sister Jane Arnold's cat to be fascinating.

Great fun reading.

The Hunt Ball
Great book. I love all her horse, animal mysteries and fiction.

Suzi

Fox & Hounds
Wonderful Characters and story line. Suspend your beliefs and enjoy the animals and the people. Lots of info on fox hunting and the people and hounds and horses who participate. Really good mystery is added joy in this excellantly written book.

Lots of Fun
I love the way Rita mae Brown makes you feel you are right there on the hunt and a part of the hunting community with her vivid descriptions. And as an animal lover, I enjoy the talking animals as they add so much spice to the mix. So I say if you want a fun read get the whole "Sister Jane" series and gallop on! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (25)

I thought I would like this book.......
This is my first Rita Mae Brown book......and probably my last. I really thought I would like this book, but I didn't. Don't get me wrong, there was nothing specifically wrong with it (hence the 2 stars). It's just that there's (much) better stuff out there to occupy my time. This book was like reading the Manhattan telephone directory. The plot wasn't much, but the cast of characters was great! Even with a list of the main characters (27!) and a brief description of each in the front of the book, I still got confused sometimes. Someone else may thoroughly enjoy this book, but I didn't.

Murder by Obituary!
In the 6th book in the Mrs. Murphy and Tucker Mystery series, the little town of Crozet, Virginia is shaken by the appearance of an obituary in the local paper.On its own, it wouldn't be shocking, as people unfortunately pass on each day.However, this obituary is of the headmaster at St. Elizabeth's prep school, and everyone is shocked by his sudden "death".Thankfully, the obit turns out to be false and is found to be a school age prank, and the town quickly returns to normal.That is...until one more false obituary of another prominent citizen appears, and the boy who placed the first bogus obituary swears he had nothing to do with this one.Then, one of the men is murdered, shaking the small town and its citizens.Mary Minor Haristeen (aka Harry) is the postmistress of the town, and has solved a few cases in the past with the help of her irrepressible feline companion, Mrs. Murphy, a tiger cat, and her canine companion, Tee Tucker, a Welsh corgi.Adding to that mix is Pewter, a large grey cat who is spending more time away from her former home at the market, to enjoy time with Murphy and Tucker.The four friends jump in to solve a murder, and find themselves fighting for their lives against a killer out for blood.

This is a great series!The animals talk to one another, and feel that they are superior to humans because we do not speak "cat" or "dog".For some readers, it does take a little bit of time to get used to the communication between the animals, but it is well worth it.I love the way that the residents of the town interact with one another, and this is as much of a draw to the books as is the mystery.I am often guessing until the end as to how the mystery will be resolved, and I am also curious to see how the animals will help in solving the case.This series makes me wish I could pack up and visit Crozet on my next vacation.

The first book in the series is called "Wish You Were Here".Enjoy!

My little Secret
Reading these mysteries over the years, I've always guessed the wrong killer. Therefore, I had a diferrent slant on RMB/Sneaky Pie books than I would have had I guessed correctly.Soooo, after reading the first few chapters, I HAVE TO SEE who-dun-it.
Believe it or not, I really enjoy this method and it's a lot more fun reading the books.

Another quick read
Reading the Mrs. Murphy mysteries out of order is not too bad as long as the reader knows she is doing that.The underlying stories of the lead characters, including Harry, Fair, Susan, Miranda, Mim, BoomBoom, etc., does run through the books, but the individual mysteries stand alone, since it's usually the . . .Well, mustn't give too much away.

This mystery starts when false obituaries are printed in a local newspaper.The two subjects are members of St. Elizabeth's a private school.When both of the victims of the pranks end up victims of murder, the chase is on.

Harry just can't ignore a mystery and her friends have not only come to expect her sleuthing, they join in.After all, they know everyone in town and the surrounding area.The setting is well described, although there may have been a couple of mistakes in Brown's description of Waynesboro, and residents and former residents will know exactly where she has taken us.

These mysteries are always good quick reads with characters we can care about.Be sure to read them all.

Great...give teens another 'bright' idea...
Actually, this stunt (putting a person's obit in before their death) sounds a little more on the college-age level than on high-school age level. And if it was done giving someone a great obit for being a great person, it could have been complimentary. But everyone who has read Brown's books, knows that when something like this happens, a body is sure to follow...and Harry is sure to follow the body to where it leads her; whether or not it is her business.

My animals roll their eyes at things I do too, so I am sure they don't think my IQ is very high in certain area. They are also prone to charge across my table when it is spread with homework from my chemistry students or papers I am referencing...leading to considerable time spent putting the papers back in order. They amuse me, and I feed them. That's the deal. They also answer the door for the deaf person...me.

I love Brown's descriptions of her characters and the area in Virginia. Under normal circumstances I would love to live in an area like Crozet, though I'd be more in Harry's financial circumstances. Unfortunately, the occurrence of murder in Crozet happens a little to often for my taste (come to think about it, there are a few areas around Pittsburgh where murders are happening too often too now, but the means and motive differ considerably).

Harry and her animals, and her friends make for great light reading. The writing is intelligent, you learn something new everytime, and the characterization is wonderful. And unlike other mystery writers at this time, Brown does not feel the need to fill her books with bad language and sex. A lot of that stuff can be implied without having to resort to cluttering up the readers' mind with trash...

Karen Sadler ... Read more