Death and Hard Cider -- Barbara Hambly

<p><b><i>Musician, sleuth and free man of color Benjamin January gets mixed in politics, with murderous results.</i></b></p><p><b>"The historical backdrop is vivid, and the writing is exquisite. One of the best in a not-to-be-missed series" - <i>Booklist</i> Starred Review</b><b><i><br></i></b><br><i>September, 1840</i>. A giant rally is being planned in New Orleans to stir up support for presidential candidate William Henry Harrison: the Indian-killing, hard-cider-drinking, wannabe "people's president". Trained surgeon turned piano-player Benjamin January has little use for politicians. But the run-up to the rally is packed with balls and dinner parties, and the meagre pay is sorely needed. <p/>Soon, however, January has more to worry about than keeping his beloved family fed and safe. During an elegant reception thrown by New Orleans' local Whig notables, the son of a prominent politician gets into a fist-fight with a rival over beautiful young flirt Marie-Joyeuse Maginot - and, the day after the rally is over, Marie-Joyeuse turns up dead. The only black person amongst the initial suspects is arrested immediately: January's dear friend, Catherine Clisson. <p/>With Catherine's life on the line, January is determined to uncover the truth and prove her innocence. But his adversaries are powerful politicians, and the clock is ticking . . .</p><br><br><b>Author:</b> Barbara Hambly<br><b>Publisher:</b> Severn House<br><b>Published:</b> 01/31/2023<br><b>Pages:</b> 256<br><b>Bindi