The End of the Pier

A reader from New York City , April 1, 1998
could have been a lot better.
I like Martha Grimes (especially loved Hotel Paradise) and the detective here, DeGheyn, is a really great character. Likewise Maude, the well-drawn waitress who loves him. Both of these characters are great. The story plugs along fairly well until the end -- what a disappointment! It was as if she scribbled the last few pages in the car on the way to dropping off the manuscript. I really couldn't believe how poor an ending it was. Grimes has done and can do better. 

A reader , August 3, 1997
A Mystery with Character
Grimes' English Detective Jury mysteries have always been delightful because they are English mysteries that move with American speed. Her characters are special - charming and funny. A well-developed character is sometimes hard to find in a good mystery novel. The characters in The End of the Pier are so real that you will feel your loss when you finish the book. I still miss them. This is a beautifully written and unforgettable book - and a mystery to boot!