The Last Songbird

L.A. Lyft driver Addy Zantz, the narrator of this soulful first mystery from Weizmann (Drinking with Bukowski), is trying to reignite his songwriting career when one of his regular fares, aging music legend Annie Linden, is found dead on Hermosa Beach. Grief-stricken at the loss of not just his favorite passenger but his sole artistic supporter, Addy becomes ensnared in the investigation. Police charge Linden’s recently fired former assistant with the singer’s murder and pin Addy as an accessory. In an attempt to clear his name, Addy begins tracking down the people closest to Linden, including exes, lovers, and old mentors, hoping to unravel her complicated past and shine a light on her secrets before it’s too late. Weizmann seamlessly weaves vibrant L.A. music industry personalities into the suspenseful plot. This tense whodunit deserves a sequel. Agent: Janet Oshiro, Robbins Office. (May)