(Reviewed by JD Jung)
It’s August 1958 and black renters, homeowners and business owners are getting kicked out of the Fillmore district of San Francisco due to redevelopment and urban renewal. Developers are using unfair tactics to enforce eminent domain. Leitisha Boone, owner of the restaurant and jazz club, the Blue Moon, is under such a threat.
Attorney Kay Schiffner works for a prestigious law firm at a time when female lawyers are still an anomaly. When she isn’t working, she loves to play jazz piano at the Blue Moon. Family and friends can’t understand why, being white, she loves to go to that part of town. She would love to help businesses, such as the Blue Moon, from losing their leases, but her firm forbids her from doing so.
Boone is constantly at odds with her landlord, prominent black businessman Marvin Wright. Trouble comes to a head when he threatens to evict her, and everyone can hear the shouting.
When Wright is found murdered, Boone seems to be the convenient suspect. Schiffner can no longer sit on the sidelines, but what is she to do?
Inspecter Thursday Zimpel, who cares about truth and justice, is assigned to the case; that is, until he gets too close to the truth. Yes, there are witnesses, but no white jury will believe a black witness. Add to that, there could be government corruption and even La Cosa Nostra could be involved.
This crime thriller takes us on a ride of twists and turns, but also explores issues of entitlement, racism, sexism and class. Those who love San Francisco, like I do, will enjoy the neighborhoods, landmarks, jazz and beat culture. I particularly enjoyed the supporting characters, and I can see a few in upcoming stories.
But Not For Me is the first novel in the Kay Schiffner Mystery Series. I hope there are more.
