Reviewed by Pennell Paugh

Corey Lynn Fayman stages his mystery in April 1891 in his latest novel, The Deadly Singaree. Fourteen-year-old Johnny Cong, an orphan of Scotts-Chinese parentage, who lives in the city’s Stingaree district, tells the story.

Taking advantage of opportunities that come his way, Cong ekes out a living driving a donkey cart, in spite of being treated with contempt like his African American friend. To gain free housing and a place to board his donkey, he watches over the animals in a barn where straw is his bed. He reports that San Diego is anticipating the arrival of Benjamin Harrison, the first US president to visit their city.

Norwegian, John Sigerson, hires Cong as a guide. Mysterious crimes occur that Sigerson investigates in a manner like Sherlock Holmes. Are the crimes linked together? Sigerson comes to believe the US president’s life be threatened. Will people believe him? An exciting thriller unfolds.

Fayman, claims a document was mysteriously delivered to his home that had been written by Johnny Cong. However, the book is written in modern English and Fayman does not sell the book as an authentic historical nonfiction story.

To Fayman’s credit, The Deadly Stingaree has a delightful cast of characters who stand out from the page, including the notorious gunslinger, Wyatt Earp. The book is compelling, at times exciting, and is always interesting.

Corey Lynn Fayman was born in La Jolla, CA. He holds a B.A. in English, with a specialization in creative writing and poetry from UCLA, and an M.A. in Educational Technology from San Diego State University. His creative career includes work as a musician, songwriter, sound designer, multimedia developer and college professor. He is the author of six mystery novels, including the San Diego Book Awards 2021 Geisel award winner Ballast Point Breakdown and the 2024 Shamus finalist Gillespie Field Groove.