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After reading several heavy duty histories, I needed something light, fast and entertaining and Julie Smith's 82 Desire fit the bill. This was my first Skip Langdon mystery, and I was very charmed with this book. Yes, there are much better mysteries, but I love New Orleans and it was fun to read a story set in this unique city. The characters could have been developed a little better, but perhaps they are in earlier books from this series. I especially liked the Baroness Pontalba. This will definitely not be my last Julie Smith.

I read "Louisiana Hotshot" before I read "82 Desire" and I was pleasantly surprised to find the exotic poet/detective, Talba Wallis, introduced in this book. I can't agree with the other reviewers that this was not her best. I thought it was just as fast-paced, thought-provoking and intriguing as all of the other books in the Skip Langdon series. Like the other books, it kept me guessing until the end. If you love New Orleans and you love quirky, unique characters, then you'll ADORE this book. I promise you, you won't be disappointed!!!

This was my first Skip Langdon novel. I love to visit New Orleans and found the many references to places I know and love to be intriguing. The connection between the amateur private dectective and the police was very loosely woven and kept my interest to put those pieces together. This book kept me guessing until the very last page. I am anxious to read some of Smith's earlier novels.