What do you think?
Rate this book
A Jazz Age Mystery #2
Bathing Beauties, Booze And Bullets
"Boardwalk Empire" meets "Miss Universe" in 1927 Galveston, Texas-the "Sin City of the Southwest." Jasmine ("Jazz") Cross is an ambitious 21-year-old society reporter for the Galveston Gazette who wants to be taken seriously by the good-old-boy staff, but the editors only assign her fluffy puff pieces, like writing profiles of bathing beauties.
The last thing Jazz wants to do is compare make-up tips with ditzy dames competing in the Miss Universe contest, known as the "International Pageant of Pulchritude and Bathing Girl Revue." She'd rather help solve the murders of young prostitutes who turn up all over town, but city officials insist on burying the stories during Splash Day festivities. After Jazz gets to know the bathing beauties, she realizes there's a lot more to them than just pretty faces and figures.
Jazz becomes suspicious when she finds out the contest is also sponsored by the Maceos, aspiring Beach Gang leaders and co-owners of the Hollywood Dinner Club, where the girls will perform before the parade and pageant. Worse, her half-brother Sammy Cook, owner of the Oasis, a speakeasy on a rival gang's turf, asks her to call in a favor from handsome Prohibition Agent James Burton: He wants Agent Burton to raid the Hollywood Club during the bathing beauties dance routine--or risk revenge from the Downtown Gang leader. Her loyalties torn, Jazz is faced with an impossible task that could compromise both of their jobs and budding romance.
Meanwhile, Jazz fends off advances from Colin Ferris, an attractive but dangerous gangster who threatens Sammy as well as Burton. In the end, she must risk it all to save her friends from a violent killer hell-bent on revenge. Inspired by actual events. (Sequel to FLAPPERS, FLASKS AND FOUL PLAY, the first "Jazz Age Mystery" in the series.)
The last thing Jazz wants to do is compare make-up tips with ditzy dames competing in the Miss Universe contest, known as the "International Pageant of Pulchritude and Bathing Girl Revue." She'd rather help solve the murders of young prostitutes who turn up all over town, but city officials insist on burying the stories during Splash Day festivities. After Jazz gets to know the bathing beauties, she realizes there's a lot more to them than just pretty faces and figures.
Jazz becomes suspicious when she finds out the contest is also sponsored by the Maceos, aspiring Beach Gang leaders and co-owners of the Hollywood Dinner Club, where the girls will perform before the parade and pageant. Worse, her half-brother Sammy Cook, owner of the Oasis, a speakeasy on a rival gang's turf, asks her to call in a favor from handsome Prohibition Agent James Burton: He wants Agent Burton to raid the Hollywood Club during the bathing beauties dance routine--or risk revenge from the Downtown Gang leader. Her loyalties torn, Jazz is faced with an impossible task that could compromise both of their jobs and budding romance.
Meanwhile, Jazz fends off advances from Colin Ferris, an attractive but dangerous gangster who threatens Sammy as well as Burton. In the end, she must risk it all to save her friends from a violent killer hell-bent on revenge. Inspired by actual events. (Sequel to FLAPPERS, FLASKS AND FOUL PLAY, the first "Jazz Age Mystery" in the series.)
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2013
5 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Ellen Mansoor Collier
6 books89 followersEllen Mansoor Collier is a Houston-based freelance writer and editor whose articles, essays and short stories have been published in a variety of national magazines. She's interviewed Suze Orman and Nancy Brinker and several unsung heroines for BIOGRAPHY and FAMILY CIRCLE magazines. In the 1990s, she reviewed mysteries for The Houston Chronicle, which was like a crash course in writing novels.
A flapper at heart, she's worked as a magazine editor/writer, and in advertising and public relations (plus endured a hectic semester as a substitute teacher). Between journalism jobs, she managed an antiques shop, leading to a fascination with the 1920s and Art Deco design. During college summers, she worked as a reporter for a Houston community newspaper and once served as a cocktail waitress, both jobs providing background experience for her Jazz Age mysteries.
She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Magazine Journalism and was an editor/writer on UTmost, the college magazine. During her senior year, she served as the president of WICI (Women in Communications).
FLAPPERS, FLASKS AND FOUL PLAY is the first novel in her Jazz Age series, published in 2012, followed by the sequel, BATHING BEAUTIES, BOOZE AND BULLETS, released in 2013. GOLD DIGGERS, GAMBLERS AND GUNS came out in May 2014, followed by VAMPS, VILLAINS AND VAUDEVILLE in 2015.
Collier lives in Houston with her engineer husband and hyperactive Chow/Sheperd mutts, and visits Galveston whenever possible.
"When you grow up in Houston, Galveston becomes like a second home. I had no idea this sleepy beach town had such a wild and colorful past, and became fascinated by the legends and stories of the 1920s."
A flapper at heart, she's worked as a magazine editor/writer, and in advertising and public relations (plus endured a hectic semester as a substitute teacher). Between journalism jobs, she managed an antiques shop, leading to a fascination with the 1920s and Art Deco design. During college summers, she worked as a reporter for a Houston community newspaper and once served as a cocktail waitress, both jobs providing background experience for her Jazz Age mysteries.
She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Magazine Journalism and was an editor/writer on UTmost, the college magazine. During her senior year, she served as the president of WICI (Women in Communications).
FLAPPERS, FLASKS AND FOUL PLAY is the first novel in her Jazz Age series, published in 2012, followed by the sequel, BATHING BEAUTIES, BOOZE AND BULLETS, released in 2013. GOLD DIGGERS, GAMBLERS AND GUNS came out in May 2014, followed by VAMPS, VILLAINS AND VAUDEVILLE in 2015.
Collier lives in Houston with her engineer husband and hyperactive Chow/Sheperd mutts, and visits Galveston whenever possible.
"When you grow up in Houston, Galveston becomes like a second home. I had no idea this sleepy beach town had such a wild and colorful past, and became fascinated by the legends and stories of the 1920s."
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 30, 2018
I’m so addicted to this series. I read book one yesterday and spent the good part of today reading book two. The author is a great storyteller and I really love the characters. I can’t wait to read the next one!
June 17, 2013
In 1927 Galveston, Texas, it's time for the "International Pageant of Pulchritude and Bathing Girl Revue", and Jasmine "Jazz" Cross would like to be a serious reporter and leave the society pages behind. But for now, she is assigned to cover the beauty pageant and write profiles on the contestants. But everything is not beautiful in Galveston; there seems to be a serial killer leaving the bodies of young prostitutes around town. Jazz finds herself involved, along with her half-brother Sammy and Prohibition Agent Burton, with whom she has the beginnings of a relationship. The pageant is taking place in the middle of a turf war between the two local gangs, so when the gangsters get involved, the bullets start to fly.
Inspired by a true story, this is a fascinating look at the age of the flappers and gangsters. Although it is a murder mystery, it is still a light read with fun references to 1920s slang and fashion.
4 stars
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Cozy Mystery book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Inspired by a true story, this is a fascinating look at the age of the flappers and gangsters. Although it is a murder mystery, it is still a light read with fun references to 1920s slang and fashion.
4 stars
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Cozy Mystery book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 23, 2013
Really a 4.5, this is the second in the "Jazz Age" series featuring Jasmine Cross. Set in the 1920s, it will appeal to readers who are interested in the age of prohibition and bootlegging. The potential for foul play and misadventure is ripe and Jasmine gets caught up in it all. Her boring assignment as society reporter is to interview the young women competing in beauty contests - the precursors of Miss America and Miss Universe. Not only are the beach gangs having turf issues, but it looks like prostitutes are being murdered. References made to the suffragette movement and beginning of women's rights vie with the chauvinism of the time. As Jasmine tries to help her half-brother, keep secrets from James, somehow maintain a budding romance, and figure out how to be more involved in the real news, the bodies and twists continue to build. The plot is well-developed and the ending isn't predictable, but makes sense. Jasmine and the other main characters are likeable and their 'voice' is consistent with the time portrayed. I hadn't read the first in the series so it was a little hard to track all the characters - I'd suggest getting your feet wet with Flappers, Flasks and Foul Play.
June 23, 2019
This book is the continuing story of Jazz and her colorful friends, Sammy, Amanda, Nathan and Agent James Burton. Instead of getting her big break in the journalism world Jazz is covering The Bathing Beauties who are in the town for the Miss Universe and Miss USA contests. Of course Jazz is less than thrilled at first, but overtime she learns about The Bathing Beauties which changes her opinion.
Sammy has his own issues with someone thinking Sammy is buddied up with Prohibition Agent Burton. Of course he uses Jazz as a messenger of sorts which creates complications with James Burton. Then girls are being found murdered but the coppers are quick to call it suicide and shut the book. Is it really suicide or something more sinister?
I can't rave about these books enough they bring you to a different lifetime. Things in some ways more fun hanging out with all sorts of people and spending time out in public and meeting new people. I just love it and can't wait to read the next one in the series which I will be book touring at the end of July.
Sammy has his own issues with someone thinking Sammy is buddied up with Prohibition Agent Burton. Of course he uses Jazz as a messenger of sorts which creates complications with James Burton. Then girls are being found murdered but the coppers are quick to call it suicide and shut the book. Is it really suicide or something more sinister?
I can't rave about these books enough they bring you to a different lifetime. Things in some ways more fun hanging out with all sorts of people and spending time out in public and meeting new people. I just love it and can't wait to read the next one in the series which I will be book touring at the end of July.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2016
“Bathing Beauties, Booze and Bullets (A Jazz Age Mystery #2)” by Ellen Mansoor Collier is probably my favourite of the three books in her series that I have read so far. The scene for this particular mystery novel is a beauty contest in the familiar 1927 Galveston, Texas setting - the "Sin City of the Southwest."
Jasmine or "Jazz" Cross once again tries to make a break from her gossip / society reporting and focuses on the death of several women, most likely prostitutes working for one of the two gangs.
While being a ‘good friend’ to handsome Prohibition Agent Burton, Jazz is also courted by Collin, a gang member. Like the rest of the series, the exciting and glamorous setting is hugely beneficial for this colourful and enjoyable novel, but it is the great characterisation of a slightly naïve but also clever woman in those days and circles that make the series for me.
With all its fun, chemistry, authenticity, plotting and ease in style and slang, this is very recommendable.
Jasmine or "Jazz" Cross once again tries to make a break from her gossip / society reporting and focuses on the death of several women, most likely prostitutes working for one of the two gangs.
While being a ‘good friend’ to handsome Prohibition Agent Burton, Jazz is also courted by Collin, a gang member. Like the rest of the series, the exciting and glamorous setting is hugely beneficial for this colourful and enjoyable novel, but it is the great characterisation of a slightly naïve but also clever woman in those days and circles that make the series for me.
With all its fun, chemistry, authenticity, plotting and ease in style and slang, this is very recommendable.
January 9, 2014
I loved the first book in this series, Flappers, Flask and Foul Play, and I loved this second book even more. Ellen Mansoor Collier did a great job of developing interesting and real characters that I've become hooked on. Mystery, intrigue, suspense, romance, and a great setting...this book has it all and is a fantastic read. Jazz is an unflappable flapper (pardon the pun) and a strong heroine. She keeps getting into hot water, but she can handle herself--she's no shrinking violet. Once again it was a pleasure to spend time with Jazz and friends (and enemies). Escape to Galveston! You'll have a blast. I'm looking forward to more books in this series. Write faster, Ms. Collier!
February 3, 2014
I absolutely love this series, the first book Flapper Flask and Foul Play was great and Bathing Beauties, Booze and bullets won't let you down either.
Bathing Beauties takes place in Galveston Texas. It is the late 1920's and Jazz finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery, someone is killing prostitutes. Join Jazz and some new characters in this exquisite fast paced, page turning book. You will not be disappointed that you did.
I am so glad that I found Ellen Mansoor Collier's books She is a superb author. I can't wait for the 3rd book in the series. I would also like to say thank you as I received this book from the author for an honest review.
Bathing Beauties takes place in Galveston Texas. It is the late 1920's and Jazz finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery, someone is killing prostitutes. Join Jazz and some new characters in this exquisite fast paced, page turning book. You will not be disappointed that you did.
I am so glad that I found Ellen Mansoor Collier's books She is a superb author. I can't wait for the 3rd book in the series. I would also like to say thank you as I received this book from the author for an honest review.
June 22, 2013
I loved it! Great sequel to the first "Flappers..." book in the series by Collier. These are the further adventures of her intrepid heroine, Jazz, in 1920s Galveston, Texas. Her friends and family are back, plus some new characters, both friendly and not so much. Take this book directly to the beach and you'll be entertained and amused.
September 19, 2019
Love these series of jazz age mystery novels. Fun to read, fun characters. I love the history of Galveston and the references to landmarks etc. Looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
April 25, 2013
Absolutely brilliant author. A must read. Spellbinding.
June 16, 2013
This is fast becoming one of my favourite new series of mysteries. I love the Prohibition setting, and Jazz is a wonderful heroine.
December 23, 2024
Four and a half stars. The Texas gulf coast, the Galveston Mob, two murders, a Fed, and a cub reporter, an excellent cast for a mystery and this is a good one. Set in the Roaring 20's, Jasmine Cross is a young woman trying to succeed in the newspaper business. Jazz is feeling her way caustiously into a relationship with Prohibition Agent Burton, worried about her brother's mob contacts, and assigned to cover the beautiful girls in town for the Miss Universe and Miss USA contests. When the body of a young woman turns up Jazz sees a chance to work on a front page story. Ms. Collier works actual historical figures into her plotline, adding a nice touch of realism. A very good read, I will certainly seek out the next in the series.
Read
July 12, 2020This was amazing. I thought the first was good? The second was even better? This one just gets better. Poor Jazz, she just cannot keep out of trouble. I am sure she wants her romance to flourish but her career might not be. Who knows what will happen. The Bathing Beauties remind me of the time I used to go to Galveston and watch the parade and look at all the "Bathing Beauties". I had a friend I went to school with was in that contest. Lots of memories. This book needs to be read.
May 30, 2018
Loved the first and now the second in Ellen Colliers "A Jazz Age Mystery" Series. Due to schedule, had to restart twice but after the third or so chapter, I started carrying it with me to read when I could get a few minutes. Great book! Am now eager for #3.
August 21, 2014
love all the history I am learning about Galveston and the 1920's. The dialogue makes me feel like I am right there in that decade! Thank goodness for the dictionary at the end to let me know what some of the words mean.
This book continues where FFF left off with Jazz getting into her usual trouble but still keeping a secret about Sammy, that he is her brother. This time it is the Miss Universe Pageant and this is not the pageants we know today!
Like the first book, there are people that are murdered and that mystery must be solved. The author does a pretty good job of intertwining the mystery with the storyline and I don't think you will figure it out...at least I didn't!
This book continues where FFF left off with Jazz getting into her usual trouble but still keeping a secret about Sammy, that he is her brother. This time it is the Miss Universe Pageant and this is not the pageants we know today!
Like the first book, there are people that are murdered and that mystery must be solved. The author does a pretty good job of intertwining the mystery with the storyline and I don't think you will figure it out...at least I didn't!
April 16, 2016
This is a delightful entertainment with a clear rendering of "the Roaring Twenties" and Galveston, TX when wide open "mob rule" gained the town the nickname "The Free State of Galveston."
Ms. Collier's prose is vivid and her central characters are well defined and richly human.
The only thing that pulled my rating down to a 4 was that she took a little too long getting from the plots complexities to its ending.
I'll be looking forward to reading the others in her body of work.
Ms. Collier's prose is vivid and her central characters are well defined and richly human.
The only thing that pulled my rating down to a 4 was that she took a little too long getting from the plots complexities to its ending.
I'll be looking forward to reading the others in her body of work.
August 15, 2015
Gah! This was the bees knees! I loved it even more than the first book in the series! Review coming soon on the blog. :-)
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews