The Axeman's Jazz

Winner of the CWA New Blood Dagger, Ray Celestin's The Axeman's Jazz is a gripping historical crime thriller set in the mob-ruled, jazz-filled streets of 1919 New Orleans.

Shortlisted for the Theakston's Crime Novel of the Year Award and recommended on the Radio 2 Arts Show with Claudia Winkleman.

A dark serial killer known as the Axeman stalks the city, and three individuals set out to unmask him:

Detective Lieutenant Michael Talbot – leading the official investigation, but struggling to find leads and harbouring his own secret.

Former detective Luca d'Andrea – working for the mafia, his need to solve the mystery is as urgent as the authorities'.

And Ida – a secretary at the Pinkerton Detective Agency. Obsessed with Sherlock Holmes, she stumbles across a clue which lures her and her friend, musician Louis Armstrong, into terrible danger…

As Michael, Luca and Ida draw closer to discovering the killer's identity, the Axeman issues a challenge: play jazz or risk becoming the next victim.

‘A fascinating portrait of a vibrant and volatile city and a riveting read.’ – The Guardian

The Axeman's Jazz, inspired by a true story, is the first in Ray Celestin's prize-winning City Blues quartet, followed by Dead Man's Blues.