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Gilded Age Mystery #7
Death at the Falls
Set amidst the opulent mansions and cobblestone streets of 1800’s New York, this atmospheric new historical mystery brings the Gilded Age to life in a tantalizing tale of old money, new love, and grave suspicion, as newly-minted lawyer Prudence MacKenzie and ex-Pinkerton Geoffrey Hunter travel to Niagara Falls for a dangerous assignment…
October 1890: As Prudence and Geoffrey settle into the most elegant hotel in Canadian Niagara, they observe a popular tourist area torn between natural beauty and industrial power. Also attracting their attentions are the antics of daredevil Crazy Louie Whiting, determined to be the first person to navigate the falls without drowning. Shortly after their arrival, Crazy Louie sends a specially designed test barrel containing a sheep over the falls. But when the barrel is retrieved and opened, the battered body of a local Tuscarora Indian spills out.
When Geoffrey and Prudence learn of the dead man’s suspicions about rampant bribery among greedy land developers and local officials, they wonder if there’s a connection to their client, Rowan Adderly. A young woman whose father disappeared while she was a child, the land she is due to inherit could be worth millions—and inevitably the sharks have come feeding.
In a move to block Rowan’s inheritance, her greedy grandmother has declared Rowan to be the illegitimate offspring of an illicit affair between her son and a seductive Irish songstress. As Prudence and Geoffrey dig deeper into the region’s undercurrent of opportunistic greed, their investigation is impeded at every turn by murder and attempted murder. They will have to work quickly to solve a convoluted case before a determined killer sends one of them on a fatal plunge . . .
October 1890: As Prudence and Geoffrey settle into the most elegant hotel in Canadian Niagara, they observe a popular tourist area torn between natural beauty and industrial power. Also attracting their attentions are the antics of daredevil Crazy Louie Whiting, determined to be the first person to navigate the falls without drowning. Shortly after their arrival, Crazy Louie sends a specially designed test barrel containing a sheep over the falls. But when the barrel is retrieved and opened, the battered body of a local Tuscarora Indian spills out.
When Geoffrey and Prudence learn of the dead man’s suspicions about rampant bribery among greedy land developers and local officials, they wonder if there’s a connection to their client, Rowan Adderly. A young woman whose father disappeared while she was a child, the land she is due to inherit could be worth millions—and inevitably the sharks have come feeding.
In a move to block Rowan’s inheritance, her greedy grandmother has declared Rowan to be the illegitimate offspring of an illicit affair between her son and a seductive Irish songstress. As Prudence and Geoffrey dig deeper into the region’s undercurrent of opportunistic greed, their investigation is impeded at every turn by murder and attempted murder. They will have to work quickly to solve a convoluted case before a determined killer sends one of them on a fatal plunge . . .
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First published November 29, 2022
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About the author
Rosemary Simpson
16 books386 followersRosemary Simpson's What the Dead Leave Behind is set in Gilded Age New York where the Great Blizzard of 1888 brings both disaster and independence to her wealthy and unconventional heroine. Lies that Comfort and Betray is the second in the Gilded Age Mystery series, to be followed by Let the Dead Keep Their Secrets
Rosemary is also the author of two stand-alone historical novels, The Seven Hills of Paradise and Dreams and Shadows.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and the Historical Novel Society. Educated in France and the United States, she now lives near Tucson, Arizona.
Rosemary is also the author of two stand-alone historical novels, The Seven Hills of Paradise and Dreams and Shadows.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, and the Historical Novel Society. Educated in France and the United States, she now lives near Tucson, Arizona.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
May 8, 2025
Another series that has been very uneven for me. I picked up and put this book aside numerous times. The setting never grabbed me, and the mystery could have been gripping with a truly evil character, but I never got any reasons for the why. Why leave your daughter for years....why did Myra change and become so evil (or was she always).....why was there not more about the main characters relationship (they could have been brother and sister for all the interaction they had). I was left unsatisfied, like something was missing from the plot. Yes, I will continue with the series, but I will move it lower on my list.
August 10, 2022
Guilt should roar like the plunging waters of Niagara Falls.
Rosemary Simpson has decided to change things up somewhat in her latest edition of the Gilded Age Mysteries. Although this one is number seven in the lineup, it reads perfectly as a standalone. Simpson fills in the background on these characters and we're set for quite the ride. And, oh, that cover is simply spectacular.
Prudence MacKenzie and Geoffrey Hunter have recently opened an investigative law office in New York City. Prudence is only the second woman in the state to pass the bar exams in 1890. Geoffrey is a former Pinkerton agent who possesses a sixth sense when it comes to crime.
Their office has been contacted by Lady Ernestine Hamilton who resides on the Canadian side of the Niagara Falls. Lady Hamilton is concerned that a young woman of her acquaintance is being swindled out of her rightful inheritance. Rowan Adderly is set to receive her father's fortune upon her eighteenth birthday. Her grandmother wishes to deny her of this fortune since she doesn't believe that Rowan is her son's legitimate daughter. And social ranking and position was everything in the 1890's.
Once Prudence and Geoffrey arrive, Simpson creates a highly interesting view of the Falls during this time period. We're dealing with the American and Canadian sides and those who reside there. There was a Free Niagara movement that took on the mills and factories on the American side with the refuse and garbage in its aftermath. A suspension toll bridge allowed visitors movement from both sides.
Death at the Falls not only deals with murders popping up, but it gives us a literal bird's eye view of the early stages of the tourist trade, the quest for capturing hydroelectricity, and the impact of land disputes in an area of great potential. Simpson even incorporates the renowned attempts of going over the Falls in a wooden barrel.
But its the crafting of characters that Rosemary Simpson does so well. She not only establishes the rich of high society, but she slips in individuals of the time period like those of the Tuscaroran clan who live in the surrounding forests selling their beaded baskets. There are recent Irish immigrants not well received. And there are those who work in the local bars far from the beaten paths who know what goes on in those lush forests. Death at the Falls is packed with excitement like the Falls themselves.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Kensington Publishers and to Rosemary Simpson for the opportunity.
Rosemary Simpson has decided to change things up somewhat in her latest edition of the Gilded Age Mysteries. Although this one is number seven in the lineup, it reads perfectly as a standalone. Simpson fills in the background on these characters and we're set for quite the ride. And, oh, that cover is simply spectacular.
Prudence MacKenzie and Geoffrey Hunter have recently opened an investigative law office in New York City. Prudence is only the second woman in the state to pass the bar exams in 1890. Geoffrey is a former Pinkerton agent who possesses a sixth sense when it comes to crime.
Their office has been contacted by Lady Ernestine Hamilton who resides on the Canadian side of the Niagara Falls. Lady Hamilton is concerned that a young woman of her acquaintance is being swindled out of her rightful inheritance. Rowan Adderly is set to receive her father's fortune upon her eighteenth birthday. Her grandmother wishes to deny her of this fortune since she doesn't believe that Rowan is her son's legitimate daughter. And social ranking and position was everything in the 1890's.
Once Prudence and Geoffrey arrive, Simpson creates a highly interesting view of the Falls during this time period. We're dealing with the American and Canadian sides and those who reside there. There was a Free Niagara movement that took on the mills and factories on the American side with the refuse and garbage in its aftermath. A suspension toll bridge allowed visitors movement from both sides.
Death at the Falls not only deals with murders popping up, but it gives us a literal bird's eye view of the early stages of the tourist trade, the quest for capturing hydroelectricity, and the impact of land disputes in an area of great potential. Simpson even incorporates the renowned attempts of going over the Falls in a wooden barrel.
But its the crafting of characters that Rosemary Simpson does so well. She not only establishes the rich of high society, but she slips in individuals of the time period like those of the Tuscaroran clan who live in the surrounding forests selling their beaded baskets. There are recent Irish immigrants not well received. And there are those who work in the local bars far from the beaten paths who know what goes on in those lush forests. Death at the Falls is packed with excitement like the Falls themselves.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Kensington Publishers and to Rosemary Simpson for the opportunity.
February 26, 2024
Although a little slower and a lot less graphic than other books in the series, Death at the Falls (Niagara Falls) still blends mystery, crimes, and murder with good dialogue and interesting characters.
If a reader is taking on and wanting to read this enjoyable series, I would completely recommend starting at the beginning with book 1.
If a reader is taking on and wanting to read this enjoyable series, I would completely recommend starting at the beginning with book 1.
November 30, 2022
This is the seventh book in the Gilded Age Mystery Series and I've enjoyed some of the books while others have been lackluster for me. This one ended up being a lackluster read. I definitely haven't liked the books where the author changes the setting. In this one Prudence and Geoffrey travel to Niagra Falls for a case. I had a hard time getting into this book. The overall plot just didn't interest me. I started to get interested more when Josiah and Amos came on the scene to help with the investigation. Their characters were more interesting to me this time than Prudence and Geoffrey.
There were some twists and reveals in the book that were pretty easy to figure out. This was one of those books where the reader is privy to more information than the characters doing the investigation, and I really don't like those kinds of mysteries. After I got into the book about halfway, I realized that Prudence and Geoffrey basically did nothing but talk to some people in this book. They didn't uncover anything related to the investigation themselves. It was all other people, at least for most of the book. Then of course Prudence goes and gets herself into trouble yet again. At least this time she got herself out of it.
In the beginning I thought there would be relationship progress between Prudence and Geoffrey, but nothing ends up happening besides a small teaser at the end, which felt like it came out of nowhere. I didn't feel any chemistry between them in this book. I know this is mainly about the mystery, but the background romance was something I was hoping would progress and develop by now. At this point, I think it may be time for me to part ways with this series. It's been too up and down for me and I'm just not liking it enough to keep going.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader.
There were some twists and reveals in the book that were pretty easy to figure out. This was one of those books where the reader is privy to more information than the characters doing the investigation, and I really don't like those kinds of mysteries. After I got into the book about halfway, I realized that Prudence and Geoffrey basically did nothing but talk to some people in this book. They didn't uncover anything related to the investigation themselves. It was all other people, at least for most of the book. Then of course Prudence goes and gets herself into trouble yet again. At least this time she got herself out of it.
In the beginning I thought there would be relationship progress between Prudence and Geoffrey, but nothing ends up happening besides a small teaser at the end, which felt like it came out of nowhere. I didn't feel any chemistry between them in this book. I know this is mainly about the mystery, but the background romance was something I was hoping would progress and develop by now. At this point, I think it may be time for me to part ways with this series. It's been too up and down for me and I'm just not liking it enough to keep going.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader.
December 16, 2022
This is not a ‘cozy’ mystery, however it is a mystery with more than one murder. I didn’t connect with the characters but I liked that it was set in Niagara Falls in 1890 at a time when Niagara Falls was just trying to become the tourist attraction it is today. I didn’t especially enjoy the story.
July 11, 2022
Great setting and interesting enough plot ideas, though it wasn’t quite as much of a cozy as I’d hoped for. More than one autopsy scene and a high body count rendered this book unenjoyable for me, and I never found much to warm up to in the investigative duo. I ended up skimming much of it just to see what the resolution was.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this digital review copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this digital review copy.
December 31, 2022
My first foray into Rosemary Simpson's Gilded Age Mystery series proved to be very enjoyable. The author adeptly weaves historical facts and descriptions into a highly engaging mystery. Well worth a look.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 19, 2023
This is the second book I've read in this series. It moved a bit slow and it was hard for me to get into. It took me a lot longer than usual to read it because it didn't keep my interest.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
February 1, 2024
The mystery was fascinating and I loved the Niagara Falls setting. I liked that Prudence saved herself this time - Geoffrey wasn’t even in the action scene. That being said, there wasn’t as much on-page development of the relationship between Prudence and Geoffrey. Though we continue to get Geoffrey’s pining in the intro and conclusion.
June 26, 2022
New in a series from historical mystery writer Romary Simpson. This time we find Prudence Mackenzie and Ex-Pinkerton agent Geoffrey Hunter traveling to the Canadian Niagara Falls to investigate missing people and family inheritances .While pursuing their case, family secrets are revealed and murders begin to happen.
Reader might feel confused if they have not read the previous books in the series, but the reader can still enjoy this as a stand alone book.
Fascinating history of Niagara Falls, its development as a tourist attraction and also of the people who tried to go down the falls in wooden barrels.
Thank you Net Galley for letting me read this book.
Reader might feel confused if they have not read the previous books in the series, but the reader can still enjoy this as a stand alone book.
Fascinating history of Niagara Falls, its development as a tourist attraction and also of the people who tried to go down the falls in wooden barrels.
Thank you Net Galley for letting me read this book.
December 9, 2022
We spent more time with the villains and Amos and Josiah than Gregory and Prudence, whose relationship somehow becomes less developed as we go along.
January 23, 2023
I read one other book by this author and loved it. I looked forward to this one as I live in the Niagara region. This was a very well crafted story. Well written, great character development! This story has so many layers to it. Many twists and turns! The beauty and the danger of the Falls, itself is a character all its own in this story. I actually learned a lot of history abt the Falls! This is the 7th in the Gilded Age series and it does not disappoint. The author does her research!!!!!!!! One murder leads to others, I lost count! I had to stay up late to finish this one! Sometimes when I finish a book, I feel like I slid into home base. The ending of this book made me feel like I went over the Falls! Highly recommended!
Note to Author: Annie Edson Taylor will never be forgotten. Not in the Niagara region or in its history. Her story lives on.
Note to Author: Annie Edson Taylor will never be forgotten. Not in the Niagara region or in its history. Her story lives on.
July 19, 2022
Prudence, the daughter of a judge and newly admitted to The Bar in New York state, and Geoffrey, a former Pinkerton man, are Private Investigators (along with their secretary, an ex-NYPD cop, and others). They go north to Niagara Falls at the behest of her aunt to assist a family friend they've not met before. The publisher's blurb fits nicely in here, so there's no need to repeat it. All of the characters are clear and engaging, the tight atmosphere and suspense feel real, the plot twists are intriguing and the red herrings inventive. Very well done.
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you.
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you.
February 9, 2023
Good story. Like the series
July 26, 2024
Entertaining.
December 2, 2022
Death at the Falls is the seventh book in the A Gilded Age Mystery series by Rosemary Simpson.
Prudence MacKenzie has passed the New York Bar exam and is relieved to have that behind her. Prudence and Geoffrey Hunter run the Hunter and MacKenzie Investigative Law office.
Prudence and Geoffrey are heading to Niagara Falls. Prudence’s Aunt Gillian wrote to her asking to visit her friend Lady Hamilton who would like legal advice about her concern for seventeen-year-old Rowan Adderly. On her eighteenth birthday, Rowan will receive a large trust fund of money and land. Rowan had lived with her grandmother, Myra Adderly, since infancy when her father left Rowan with his mother and went West to make his fortune. Myra Adderly intends to prove her son and the mother of Rowan were never married; therefore, Rowan is not entitled to the trust. Geoffrey will have their secretary, Josiah, into the investigation to learn the trust holdings.
The book has a subplot that centers around Crazy Louie, who builds barrels, hoping to become the first human to traverse Niagara Falls successfully. On one of the last trials, a sheep is put in the barrel and set off down the Niagara River. Prudence and Geoffrey are near the river when the barrel is placed in the water. There is a double shock when the barrel is retrieved; the barrel is still intact, but inside is the body of a dead male. Prudence and Geoffrey need to investigate, and Geoffrey will on his ex-Pinkerton agent partner to handle the investigation.
This series is one of my favorite historical cozy mystery series. Ms. Simpson weaves historical facts and descriptions into an engaging mystery. The story is well-written and plotted. The story moves at a good pace. The characters are well-developed, believable, and interesting.
I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this wonderful series.
Prudence MacKenzie has passed the New York Bar exam and is relieved to have that behind her. Prudence and Geoffrey Hunter run the Hunter and MacKenzie Investigative Law office.
Prudence and Geoffrey are heading to Niagara Falls. Prudence’s Aunt Gillian wrote to her asking to visit her friend Lady Hamilton who would like legal advice about her concern for seventeen-year-old Rowan Adderly. On her eighteenth birthday, Rowan will receive a large trust fund of money and land. Rowan had lived with her grandmother, Myra Adderly, since infancy when her father left Rowan with his mother and went West to make his fortune. Myra Adderly intends to prove her son and the mother of Rowan were never married; therefore, Rowan is not entitled to the trust. Geoffrey will have their secretary, Josiah, into the investigation to learn the trust holdings.
The book has a subplot that centers around Crazy Louie, who builds barrels, hoping to become the first human to traverse Niagara Falls successfully. On one of the last trials, a sheep is put in the barrel and set off down the Niagara River. Prudence and Geoffrey are near the river when the barrel is placed in the water. There is a double shock when the barrel is retrieved; the barrel is still intact, but inside is the body of a dead male. Prudence and Geoffrey need to investigate, and Geoffrey will on his ex-Pinkerton agent partner to handle the investigation.
This series is one of my favorite historical cozy mystery series. Ms. Simpson weaves historical facts and descriptions into an engaging mystery. The story is well-written and plotted. The story moves at a good pace. The characters are well-developed, believable, and interesting.
I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this wonderful series.
July 10, 2022
Prudence MacKenzie has finally been approved to practice law — one of only two women lawyers in the state of New York in the late 1800s. While still working as a private inquiry agent alongside her partner, ex-Pinkerton detective Geoffrey Hunter, she is eager to test her skills in the courtroom. So when her formidable Aunt Gillian writes her that her friend Lady Hamilton needs ‘discreet’ legal assistance in Niagara, Prudence and Geoffrey are quick to accept the challenge.
For reasons not immediately apparent, Lady Hamilton has taken up the cause of a young woman, Rowan Adderly, on the cusp of turning eighteen and inheriting a vast fortune of money and land in the highly-desired Niagara area. After the death of her Irish songstress mother and disappearance of her wealthy father, Rowan is left vulnerable to her grandmother’s scheming to prove her illegitimate and strip Rowan of her inheritance. Myra Adderly is a force to be reckoned with, but a foe Lady Hamilton is well able to match. Prudence and Geoffrey travel to Niagara under the impression this will be a legal battle hashed out in the courts, but the situation quickly proves more complicated as the murder of a local Tuscarora man starts a chain of events that begins with corrupt land developers and seems to end with Rowan Adderly’s potential inheritance.
As events unfold, Prudence and Geoffrey enlist the help of their associates, the indispensable secretary Josiah, and enigmatic ex-Pinkerton Amos Lang, to help unravel the threads of connection between all the pieces of the case. With intriguing secondary characters and an engaging account of Niagara at that time — including a fictitious character, Crazy Louie, based on historical daredevils determined to conquer the falls in barrels or the equivalent — this book moved at a mostly brisk pace with a few twists I didn’t fully see coming. Although again, Geoffrey and Prudence hinted at more to their relationship but there was no follow through, there’s a bit of a tantalizing teaser at the end that may lead to something in the next book. I really enjoy Rosemary Simpson’s writing and don’t mind a slow-growing relationship, but at times theirs feels somewhat stagnant.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
For reasons not immediately apparent, Lady Hamilton has taken up the cause of a young woman, Rowan Adderly, on the cusp of turning eighteen and inheriting a vast fortune of money and land in the highly-desired Niagara area. After the death of her Irish songstress mother and disappearance of her wealthy father, Rowan is left vulnerable to her grandmother’s scheming to prove her illegitimate and strip Rowan of her inheritance. Myra Adderly is a force to be reckoned with, but a foe Lady Hamilton is well able to match. Prudence and Geoffrey travel to Niagara under the impression this will be a legal battle hashed out in the courts, but the situation quickly proves more complicated as the murder of a local Tuscarora man starts a chain of events that begins with corrupt land developers and seems to end with Rowan Adderly’s potential inheritance.
As events unfold, Prudence and Geoffrey enlist the help of their associates, the indispensable secretary Josiah, and enigmatic ex-Pinkerton Amos Lang, to help unravel the threads of connection between all the pieces of the case. With intriguing secondary characters and an engaging account of Niagara at that time — including a fictitious character, Crazy Louie, based on historical daredevils determined to conquer the falls in barrels or the equivalent — this book moved at a mostly brisk pace with a few twists I didn’t fully see coming. Although again, Geoffrey and Prudence hinted at more to their relationship but there was no follow through, there’s a bit of a tantalizing teaser at the end that may lead to something in the next book. I really enjoy Rosemary Simpson’s writing and don’t mind a slow-growing relationship, but at times theirs feels somewhat stagnant.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 9, 2025
I really enjoyed this book that takes place at and near Niagara Falls. A man keeps building kegs to practice, with animals, a living being going over the Falls. will he be successful? Will he ever get to go over the Falls? How many deaths will it take?
November 29, 2022
The detective story is quite well written, and even the "suprise" is more functional than for effect, and I really appreciated that. The only thing I don't like so much is how much the author is dragging out the unclear relationship between Prudence and Geoffry. Also, these Pinkertons, or ex-Pinkertons, resemble Superman a little too much....
Il giallo é piuttosto ben scritto, e anche il colpo di scena é piú funzionale che ad effetto e questo l'ho apprezzato molto. L'unica cosa che non mi piace poi tanto, é quanto l'autrice stia tirando per le lunghe la relazione poco chiara tra Prudence e Geoffry. Inoltre questi Pinkerton, o ex-Pinkerton assomigliano un po' troppo a Superman...
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
Il giallo é piuttosto ben scritto, e anche il colpo di scena é piú funzionale che ad effetto e questo l'ho apprezzato molto. L'unica cosa che non mi piace poi tanto, é quanto l'autrice stia tirando per le lunghe la relazione poco chiara tra Prudence e Geoffry. Inoltre questi Pinkerton, o ex-Pinkerton assomigliano un po' troppo a Superman...
I received from the Publisher a complimentary digital advanced review copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
February 12, 2025
I enjoy this series and am still enjoying it at book 7.
The series has a number of things I like. Strong female characters, solid, entertaining plots and good character development of the characters that I'm very fond of book to book. I also enjoy the Gilded Age which is when the series is set so that is also a good feature
This book had the added fun feature of taking place in Niagara Falls, with some of the action both on the US and the Canadian sides. Since I live in Toronto which is only 90 minutes from the Canadian side of the Falls it was fun to experience the Niagara of earlier days.
The story here was exciting particularly at the end where the action ratcheted up fast and furious to the eventual conclusion.
I definitely plan to continue with this series. I enjoy basically everything about it.
The series has a number of things I like. Strong female characters, solid, entertaining plots and good character development of the characters that I'm very fond of book to book. I also enjoy the Gilded Age which is when the series is set so that is also a good feature
This book had the added fun feature of taking place in Niagara Falls, with some of the action both on the US and the Canadian sides. Since I live in Toronto which is only 90 minutes from the Canadian side of the Falls it was fun to experience the Niagara of earlier days.
The story here was exciting particularly at the end where the action ratcheted up fast and furious to the eventual conclusion.
I definitely plan to continue with this series. I enjoy basically everything about it.
September 27, 2022
This is seventh in a favorite series, and I enjoyed this one even more than usual.
Prudence and Geoffrey are called to Niagara Falls to sort out inheritance/trust fund issues, but they end up with several murders to solve. This one actually involves a couple of storylines with overlapping characters. Disappearances, dastardly villains, a colorful cast and a fascinating backdrop (love the historical elements) make for an exciting read. And Prudence and Geoffrey (and cohorts) are always fun and interesting characters. Recommended.
My thanks to the author, NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing the free early arc of Death at the Falls for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
Prudence and Geoffrey are called to Niagara Falls to sort out inheritance/trust fund issues, but they end up with several murders to solve. This one actually involves a couple of storylines with overlapping characters. Disappearances, dastardly villains, a colorful cast and a fascinating backdrop (love the historical elements) make for an exciting read. And Prudence and Geoffrey (and cohorts) are always fun and interesting characters. Recommended.
My thanks to the author, NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing the free early arc of Death at the Falls for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
December 27, 2022
I have really grown to like this author due to this one series. Prudence and Geoffrey have proven to be outstanding characters and are more interesting with each book in this series. This book was no exception. The plot is easily followed, the cast of characters are quite interesting, and the story is a good one with lots of twists, turns, and switchbacks of a truly good historical fiction novel. I definitely highly recommend this book.
December 25, 2022
Not cozy and not much of a mystery. By the third chapter you have the plot and final scene well in mind. This series has been up and down and with the seventh installment fails to develop the relationship of the characters. Offering a romance from the start of the series, in this the seventh try we have an overlong holding of hands.
Perhaps it is time for a good editor.
Perhaps it is time for a good editor.
August 25, 2023
Not my favorite book in the series. The plot was watery at best. The grudge between the "two houses" so I don't spoil it was dragged out with no real substance behind it.
August 18, 2022
Rowan Adderly is about to come into a large inheritance on her eighteenth birthday. The inheritance includes numerous plats of land surrounding Niagara Falls. Rowan's father is presumed dead, and her greedy grandmother, Myra, is determined to prevent the young woman from inheriting. Prudence Mackenzie and her investigative partner, Geoffrey Hunter, travel to Niagara Falls area to take on Rowan's case should Myra try to pursue the matter in court. The deeper Prudence and Geoffrey dig into Rowan's background and her father's vast holdings, the more questions they have. Their investigation takes them from the mansions of Niagara Falls' high society all the way down to workshop of a man who is determined to survive going over the falls in a barrel, and proves that there is more at play than an elderly woman determined to deny her only granddaughter of her inheritance. The bodies pile up—starting with a young Tuscarora Indian who is found in a test barrel that was launched over the falls. Keeping Rowan alive is just as important as figuring out why her grandmother wants her dead before her eighteenth birthday.
There is a lot going on in DEATH AT THE FALLS, and, at times, it was hard to keep everything and everyone straight. The narrative bounces back and forth between several characters, and, if you're not reading the novel in one sitting, it can be hard to keep track of the plot and how/if everything was connected. Overall, it was an interesting story. I enjoyed the history lesson on Niagara Falls as it developed in a tourist area as well as an industrial area. The addition Crazy Louie Whiting and his mission to become the first person to survive going over the falls in a barrel was intriguing. My main disappointment as that Prudence's and Geoffrey's personal relationship seems to have gone stagnant. There are hints that the relationship will ramp back up, but there seemed to be a distinct lack of emotion between the two throughout the novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
There is a lot going on in DEATH AT THE FALLS, and, at times, it was hard to keep everything and everyone straight. The narrative bounces back and forth between several characters, and, if you're not reading the novel in one sitting, it can be hard to keep track of the plot and how/if everything was connected. Overall, it was an interesting story. I enjoyed the history lesson on Niagara Falls as it developed in a tourist area as well as an industrial area. The addition Crazy Louie Whiting and his mission to become the first person to survive going over the falls in a barrel was intriguing. My main disappointment as that Prudence's and Geoffrey's personal relationship seems to have gone stagnant. There are hints that the relationship will ramp back up, but there seemed to be a distinct lack of emotion between the two throughout the novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
July 2, 2022
Rosemary Simpson’s #DeathattheFalls is an enjoyable addition the Gilded Age series. It is 1890 and Prudence MacKenzie has recently become one of the few women to pass the bar in New York state. She and her partner and fellow investigator, Geoffrey Hunter, travel to picturesque Niagra Falls in response to a request from Prudence’s Aunt Gillian. Aunt Gillian’s friend, Lady Hamilton, is concerned that a young woman, Rowan Adderly, is going to be cheated out of the inheritance due her when she turns 18. Rowan’s grandmother claims that Rowan’s parents were never married and there is no proof that Rowan’s father is Ada Adderly’s son. Rowan’s mother died and her father has not been seen or hear from in years.
Prudence is interested in the case as she believes it may offer her the opportunity to represent Rowan in court, if the case goes to trial. It turns out that there are many threads to this complex case, with a large cast of characters, both good and evil, including Crazy Louie Whiting, who is obsessed with being the first human being to survive going over the falls.
Prudence, Geoffrey and their colleagues have a challenging time trying to figure out how to keep Rowan alive and ensure that she gets the inheritance she deserves. While following along, the reader learns interesting background about a variety of subjects including natural poisons, boxing and the history of Niagra falls, and it's attraction to people such as Crazy Louie Whiting, who is obsessed with being the first human being to survive going over the falls.
Because of the complexity of the case and the number of characters involved, there are fewer scenes of significant interaction between Prudence and Geoffrey, so not much progression in their relationship, although there is a tease at the end of Geoffrey’s intentions.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #Kensington for the advance copy.
Prudence is interested in the case as she believes it may offer her the opportunity to represent Rowan in court, if the case goes to trial. It turns out that there are many threads to this complex case, with a large cast of characters, both good and evil, including Crazy Louie Whiting, who is obsessed with being the first human being to survive going over the falls.
Prudence, Geoffrey and their colleagues have a challenging time trying to figure out how to keep Rowan alive and ensure that she gets the inheritance she deserves. While following along, the reader learns interesting background about a variety of subjects including natural poisons, boxing and the history of Niagra falls, and it's attraction to people such as Crazy Louie Whiting, who is obsessed with being the first human being to survive going over the falls.
Because of the complexity of the case and the number of characters involved, there are fewer scenes of significant interaction between Prudence and Geoffrey, so not much progression in their relationship, although there is a tease at the end of Geoffrey’s intentions.
Thanks to #NetGalley and #Kensington for the advance copy.
November 27, 2022
Historical mysteries are a favorite of mine and this series is one of the best. With seven books, so far, I think I enjoyed this one the most. Maybe it's the setting of Niagara Falls in 1890, taking Prudence and her law partner, Geoffrey out of New York on a case that will take them to both sides of the Falls. Prudence has just passed the New York bar, one of only two women to have done so by 1890. She is hoping to be in a courtroom defending their client regarding her inheritance when she turns eighteen. Her grandmother will do anything to prevent her from getting it. It was at the request of Prudence's aunt that they took the case and it soon becomes clear that there is more to it than any of them had imagined. The Niagara area is growing and that growth includes crooks and conmen and a murderer. Control of the vast hydro-electrical power plus the surrounding land is bringing out the greedy. Keeping Rowan Adderly safe until her eighteenth birthday will be a challenge and not just from her nasty grandmother.
The cast of characters is large but one surely stands out - Crazy Louie Whiting, a man who wants to be the first to survive going over the Falls in a barrel. Put it all together and Niagara becomes a major character on its own. (American widow, Anna Edson Taylor, aged 63, was the first to do it on October 24, 1901) Full of history Death at the Falls had me engaged from page one and never let go..If you are new to this series it works as a stand alone with enough backstory to keep the new reader from getting lost.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
The cast of characters is large but one surely stands out - Crazy Louie Whiting, a man who wants to be the first to survive going over the Falls in a barrel. Put it all together and Niagara becomes a major character on its own. (American widow, Anna Edson Taylor, aged 63, was the first to do it on October 24, 1901) Full of history Death at the Falls had me engaged from page one and never let go..If you are new to this series it works as a stand alone with enough backstory to keep the new reader from getting lost.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 13, 2022
This is one of the best books (and series) that I have read!
I can’t praise this book enough! Set in gilded age New York, Prudence and Geoffrey are asked to help a young woman whose grandmother wishes to declare illegitimate to prevent her from inheriting her father’s bequest.
It takes place in Niagara Falls and the setting is a huge part of the book’s allure. The descriptions and historical events described in the book are so captivating that I booked a trip to Niagara Falls after finishing this book.
The chemistry between Prudence and Geoffrey is exquisite. Their mutual respect and admiration has grown since the first book in the series, and it is a pleasure to witness Geoffrey’s treatment of Prudence as an equal partner. (It is not necessary to read the first book to follow this one.)
The mystery was riveting with twists and turns that moved the story along quickly. Rosemary Simpson’s writing style flows smoothly and has a dignity that respects her readers’ intelligence. She refrains from a trend I often see where writers characters’ thoughts and dialogue are facetious, implausible, contradictory, ridiculous or rhetorical. RS characters convey realistic behavior and conversations. I savored every page of this book. Every scene was gripped my attention—nothing was prolonged or drawn out.
This was a phenomenal book and I HIGHLY recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#DeathattheFalls #NetGalley
I can’t praise this book enough! Set in gilded age New York, Prudence and Geoffrey are asked to help a young woman whose grandmother wishes to declare illegitimate to prevent her from inheriting her father’s bequest.
It takes place in Niagara Falls and the setting is a huge part of the book’s allure. The descriptions and historical events described in the book are so captivating that I booked a trip to Niagara Falls after finishing this book.
The chemistry between Prudence and Geoffrey is exquisite. Their mutual respect and admiration has grown since the first book in the series, and it is a pleasure to witness Geoffrey’s treatment of Prudence as an equal partner. (It is not necessary to read the first book to follow this one.)
The mystery was riveting with twists and turns that moved the story along quickly. Rosemary Simpson’s writing style flows smoothly and has a dignity that respects her readers’ intelligence. She refrains from a trend I often see where writers characters’ thoughts and dialogue are facetious, implausible, contradictory, ridiculous or rhetorical. RS characters convey realistic behavior and conversations. I savored every page of this book. Every scene was gripped my attention—nothing was prolonged or drawn out.
This was a phenomenal book and I HIGHLY recommend it!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
#DeathattheFalls #NetGalley
November 15, 2022
Death at the Falls is the seventh in the enthralling Gilded Age Mystery series. This time the setting is mostly at Niagara Falls, beautiful but becoming touristy during the Gilded Age of the 1800s. Prudence is now officially a lawyer as well as an investigator and is an excellent complement to her partner in crime Geoffrey, an ex Pinkerton. Their mission is to find documents proving the legitimacy of young woman, Rowan. But as they dig deeper they encounter more sinister deeds than expected as bodies start piling up. Enter adventurous Crazy Louie plus land disputes and you have one serious mix of hijinks but thankfully not in a silly way.
Since Geoffrey's brush with death Prudence sees him...and life...differently. I like this dynamic, too. But my favourite aspect was getting to know returning characters Amos and Josiah better. Niagara Falls is not only the setting but also more than that, almost an entity in this book around which mysteries swirl and historical bits abound. It would have been interesting to experience it before present day mass tourism.
Historical Fiction readers who enjoy a slight bit of an edge should find this series full of promise.
My sincere thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this fabulous book. So many possibilities for #8 in the series!
Since Geoffrey's brush with death Prudence sees him...and life...differently. I like this dynamic, too. But my favourite aspect was getting to know returning characters Amos and Josiah better. Niagara Falls is not only the setting but also more than that, almost an entity in this book around which mysteries swirl and historical bits abound. It would have been interesting to experience it before present day mass tourism.
Historical Fiction readers who enjoy a slight bit of an edge should find this series full of promise.
My sincere thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this fabulous book. So many possibilities for #8 in the series!
May 22, 2025
Be prepared to get carried away with this book and this spectacular series. Once I get into one of these books, I shut out all outside interruptions. These books captivate me, and I admit, I can’t put them down. I read a ton of historical mysteries, but Prudence and Geoffrey captivate me. Every single time! in this one they have travelled to Niagara Falls which is just beginning it's upswing in the tourist industry. Both the American and Canadian sides are angling for tourist dollars. So are big hydroelectric companies vying for a piece of the Niagara Falls' plentiful supply of power. All the big families on both sides of the border are fighting to maintain their estates and their status. Prudence and Geoffrey are hired to protect a young woman whose birthright affects a number of prominent citizens. They arrive in The Falls and are not expecting the cutthroat society shenanigans that are common-place in this area. How far will these society people go to maintain their status and their fortune? With the drop-back of the beautiful scenery at the dawn of the tourism era, Prudence and Geoffrey find that they are dealing with people that will stop at nothing to maintain their place in society. Whoever stands in the way will be dealt wth summarily. This is a page-turner of a book, and I enjoyed it immensely.
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