The Laced Chameleon

By: Bob Rogers

Narrated by: Becky Parker

Length: 7 hrs and 52 mins

Publisher's summary

New Orleans native Mademoiselle Francesca Dumas is a kept woman. At age 18 in the second year of the American Civil War, she is the concubine of a rich New Orleans banker, Joachim Buisson. Born a quadroon, Francesca leads a sheltered life of elegant jewels, gowns, lace, and lavish balls - until a bullet shatters her dream world.

An assassin murders “her man” as Francesca stood beside him among a throng gathered atop a Mississippi River levee on April 25, 1862. Bowed by Joachim’s body, rain-soaked and blood-spattered, she vows revenge. Francesca’s passionate desire for retribution drives her into a new life as a sleuth. Becoming a detective to solve a murder mystery is far from the role of women in 1862 New Orleans - especially a woman who perceives herself to be African American but appears to be white. As Francesca’s investigation begins, the assassin kills two more people and kidnaps Francesca’s best friend, Emily. Driven to recover Emily and avenge Joachim, Francesca’s arduous mental and physical journey takes a circuitous route - far from a concubine’s life of extravagant balls, lace, and leisure.

Amid the flowering of spring and early summer in New Orleans, she finds herself mired deep in the perilous abyss between Union, French, and Confederate spies. Aboard mule-drawn streetcars, Francesca’s gumshoe work takes her through Vieux Carré, Tremé, and many famous city streets in search of the assassin’s motive, means, and opportunity to commit mayhem. In her undercover role, she frequents Café du Monde, Antoine’s Restaurant, and the famous ballroom at the present-day Bourbon Orleans Hotel. Francesca gets help from three historic people of New Orleans; humanitarian Mother Henriette Delille, actress Sarah Butler, and Union spy John Mahan. Can rookie detective Francesca’s passion, determination, and wit overcome a kidnapper and three-time murderer?

©2020 Bob Rogers (P)2021 Bob Rogers

Plot Twists and High Suspense!

At the age of 18, Mademoiselle Francesca Dumas discovers she is a kept woman and not the true fiancé of her beloved Joachim Buisson. His sudden murder leads Francesca to find his murderer, and question her identity as a New Orleans native-born quadroon, and her future. Welcomed by a detective into his family as an “adopted” daughter, Francesca becomes a skilled sleuth and a spy during the American Civil War!

The author, Bob Rogers skillfully weaves an engaging narrative infused with historical facts, cultural nuances, and language of the era. He takes his time meticulously developing characters, storylines, and plot twists, seamlessly integrating them within the historical backdrop. The plot twists are not only well-executed but also unexpected. Throughout the book, readers experience the doubt, pain, and unwavering determination of Francesca. Rogers’ descriptive skills as he paints a vivid picture of the town, the time period, and the cultural imbalances within this creative work of fiction.

Becky Parker’s narration skillfully embodies the essence of the book and brings out the distinct personalities of each character vibrantly through her expressive and diverse vocal delivery. Her talent adds depth and immersion to the storytelling, making it a captivating experience for the listeners.

The author and narrator transport the listeners into a bygone era, immersing them in the rich tapestry of historical and cultural details skillfully blended with edge-of-your-seat action and adventure.

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.