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Gaslight Mystery #5
Murder on Mulberry Bend
Sarah Brandt, a midwife in turn-of-the-century New York City, has seen more than her share of joy and sorrow, birth and death. Now she will see for the first time how the squalor of the streets can breed madness and murder…
The Prodigal Son Mission on Mulberry Bend stands as a refuge for girls who otherwise would have to live by selling the only thing they have of value—themselves. The work being done there so impresses Sarah that she volunteers to help out however she can—with clothes, with medical assistance, with the organization of a benefit dinner. And when one of the girls is found dead and refused burial because of her former life, Sarah’s passion for justice is aroused.
Reluctantly, Sergeant Frank Malloy agrees to look into the death, if only to keep Sarah from endangering herself by pursuing the matter. But Sarah cannot be kept out of the investigation—and just as Malloy feared, her attempts to find the cause of the unfortunate girl’s death in the circumstances of her life put her in deadly danger—from an unexpected source…
The Prodigal Son Mission on Mulberry Bend stands as a refuge for girls who otherwise would have to live by selling the only thing they have of value—themselves. The work being done there so impresses Sarah that she volunteers to help out however she can—with clothes, with medical assistance, with the organization of a benefit dinner. And when one of the girls is found dead and refused burial because of her former life, Sarah’s passion for justice is aroused.
Reluctantly, Sergeant Frank Malloy agrees to look into the death, if only to keep Sarah from endangering herself by pursuing the matter. But Sarah cannot be kept out of the investigation—and just as Malloy feared, her attempts to find the cause of the unfortunate girl’s death in the circumstances of her life put her in deadly danger—from an unexpected source…
343 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 4, 2003
265 people are currently reading
1618 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Thompson
84 books2,446 followersVictoria Thompson was a beloved authoress of 'standard mystery' novels.
This middle of the road tone is not violent like a 'thriller' but unsanitized (NOT light like a 'cozy mystery'), is unflinchingly adult, serious, and dark.
Humour, romance, family, and compassion balance out the crime part of dear Victoria's unforgettable mysteries.
This middle of the road tone is not violent like a 'thriller' but unsanitized (NOT light like a 'cozy mystery'), is unflinchingly adult, serious, and dark.
Humour, romance, family, and compassion balance out the crime part of dear Victoria's unforgettable mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 445 reviews
May 4, 2018
Three very notable events in this book which is #5 in the series:
1. Frank appears to discover the identity of Sarah's husband's killer. And if it is correct then what a shocker!
2. One of the most delightful scenes between Frank and Sarah so far occurs straight after Frank sees the body in the park.
3. Brian has his cast removed.
There is a mystery, quite a few murders, a remarkable method for killing someone and a twist at the end but all of that takes second place to our main characters and the progress of their relationship. How many more books before they actually get together? No don't tell me - half the fun is in the suspense:)
1. Frank appears to discover the identity of Sarah's husband's killer. And if it is correct then what a shocker!
2. One of the most delightful scenes between Frank and Sarah so far occurs straight after Frank sees the body in the park.
3. Brian has his cast removed.
There is a mystery, quite a few murders, a remarkable method for killing someone and a twist at the end but all of that takes second place to our main characters and the progress of their relationship. How many more books before they actually get together? No don't tell me - half the fun is in the suspense:)
May 7, 2018
Sarah Brandt agrees to help her friend Richard Dennis understand more about his deceased wife’s passion at the time of her death. She spent most of her time volunteering at the Prodigal Son Mission on Mulberry Street and Richard wants to know what she did there. Sarah is so impressed with their work that she decides to become a volunteer but not before one of the young residents is found murdered in the park. That intersection connects her with Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy yet again to help figure how who ended this girl’s life.
There is so much to like about this story! Sarah and Frank’s relationship intensifies, Frank makes major strides in his investigation of Tom Brandt’s murder and the mystery surrounding the murder of the young Mission resident was fascinating. Figuring out the whodunit is always important to me but the richness of the historical context of the journey and the complex social issues was equally enjoyable. I loved turning the pages into what was next.
There’s so much queued up for the next book I almost feel like reading ahead of those participating in the group read with me (but I won’t, of course😏). This series is a gem.
There is so much to like about this story! Sarah and Frank’s relationship intensifies, Frank makes major strides in his investigation of Tom Brandt’s murder and the mystery surrounding the murder of the young Mission resident was fascinating. Figuring out the whodunit is always important to me but the richness of the historical context of the journey and the complex social issues was equally enjoyable. I loved turning the pages into what was next.
There’s so much queued up for the next book I almost feel like reading ahead of those participating in the group read with me (but I won’t, of course😏). This series is a gem.
March 16, 2017
Definitely the most predictable book in the series, but will still read each and every one of them! Love the character development.
May 12, 2018
A visit to the Prodigal Son Mission on Mulberry Bend gives Sarah Brandt something to think about. The mission takes in girls who are living on the streets and gives them another chance. Sarah donates some of her clothes and volunteers to help at the mission in her spare time. Detective Frank Malloy is called to City Park when a body is found. One of the girls from the mission has been murdered. With few clues, Frank knows that bringing the murderer to justice will be nearly impossible. But Sarah appeals to him to keep on the case for the girl’s sake.
Another entertaining addition to the Gaslight Mystery series. Malloy wants to keep Sarah out of the investigation, but she just keeps insinuating herself back into it. I guessed the villain early in the book, but still found myself enjoying the story. My rating: 4 Stars.
Another entertaining addition to the Gaslight Mystery series. Malloy wants to keep Sarah out of the investigation, but she just keeps insinuating herself back into it. I guessed the villain early in the book, but still found myself enjoying the story. My rating: 4 Stars.
October 24, 2015
A home for wayward girls, a lady of faith and prejudices are the focal point of the latest Gaslight Mystery. And once again, I thought I had a good grip on what was going on only to have Ms. Thompson throw in some twists and turns at the end.
Frank Malloy and Sarah Brandt are two complex individuals that continue to grow on me. Sarah has both grace and intelligence with some pluckiness which is a rarity for women of this era. She means well even when she is absorbed with other people's lives. In regards to Frank, the author shares more of what is going on in his mind. He finally coming to grips with Sarah's importance in his life.
As far as the actual crime, I keep having to remember that fingerprinting, wearing gloves at a crime scene and blood spatter are either novel ideas or haven't even been touched upon yet. As a detective with the NYC police department, Frank has to depend on threats, 'the look', and some violence. The big difference now is Sarah is intruding in his thoughts when he least suspects it; what would she think of him if she knew he had treated someone unfairly? He is developing a conscience in a very rough and tumble world.
And even though they are far apart on the social ladder, they compliment each other. Sarah is the 'light' to Frank's 'dark', she is the 'water' to his 'fire'; they are two halves that together make one whole.
Frank Malloy and Sarah Brandt are two complex individuals that continue to grow on me. Sarah has both grace and intelligence with some pluckiness which is a rarity for women of this era. She means well even when she is absorbed with other people's lives. In regards to Frank, the author shares more of what is going on in his mind. He finally coming to grips with Sarah's importance in his life.
As far as the actual crime, I keep having to remember that fingerprinting, wearing gloves at a crime scene and blood spatter are either novel ideas or haven't even been touched upon yet. As a detective with the NYC police department, Frank has to depend on threats, 'the look', and some violence. The big difference now is Sarah is intruding in his thoughts when he least suspects it; what would she think of him if she knew he had treated someone unfairly? He is developing a conscience in a very rough and tumble world.
And even though they are far apart on the social ladder, they compliment each other. Sarah is the 'light' to Frank's 'dark', she is the 'water' to his 'fire'; they are two halves that together make one whole.
February 16, 2020
I (sheepishly) declare that i'm in love with this series. i know i said i'd give it a rest but the exploits of Sarah and Frank are so darn cute that i just keep coming back for more.
February 23, 2022
I’m so late to the party of this great series. This might be my favorite so far for the touching scenes with Frank’s son, Brian. The opium scene in the last book was a fav, but I think any scenes between Sarah and Brian are going to have my heart.
I was looking forward to a few more books with a love triangle, but the conclusion took care of that.
I was looking forward to a few more books with a love triangle, but the conclusion took care of that.
May 26, 2022
I am going to differ with many of the reviewers here as I only "liked" this book and did not love it. As I was reading it the story seem familiar..... and just didn't hit the spot as the ending didn't quit work for me. So I am rating it 3.5* and look forward to the next book in the series.
June 11, 2015
2.5 stars
What has the author done to our Sarah in this book?
• She’s much too quick to jump to conclusions, and to share those conclusions with just about anyone who cares to discuss matters with her. She seems to have lost all sense of discretion.
• She plays fast and loose with the term “we”, when it should be “I”. She tells everyone that “WE” have decided who the killer is (the “we” being Sarah and Frank). Too bad she hadn’t told Frank yet.
• She has gotten very cocksure and pigheaded, and I don’t find it appealing.
• She has stopped being strong, independent Sarah, and is now constantly asking her parents for their help. She even is accepting clothing from her mother!
• Oh dear… she has even become a bit of a c***tease, playing two guys off of each other.
I think I need to give this series a rest for a while. I’m souring on it… or maybe just OD-ing? Things have started to sound very repetitious. And I hate to say it, but this book is just plain STUPID in several parts.
What has the author done to our Sarah in this book?
• She’s much too quick to jump to conclusions, and to share those conclusions with just about anyone who cares to discuss matters with her. She seems to have lost all sense of discretion.
• She plays fast and loose with the term “we”, when it should be “I”. She tells everyone that “WE” have decided who the killer is (the “we” being Sarah and Frank). Too bad she hadn’t told Frank yet.
• She has gotten very cocksure and pigheaded, and I don’t find it appealing.
• She has stopped being strong, independent Sarah, and is now constantly asking her parents for their help. She even is accepting clothing from her mother!
• Oh dear… she has even become a bit of a c***tease, playing two guys off of each other.
I think I need to give this series a rest for a while. I’m souring on it… or maybe just OD-ing? Things have started to sound very repetitious. And I hate to say it, but this book is just plain STUPID in several parts.
February 17, 2019
Sarah and Malloy meet again to solve another murder-mystery. It seems that no matter how much Malloy wants Sarah to keep out of murder mysteries, she keeps appearing on her own accord or he keeps pursuing her for some help. Whatever the case it is interesting to see these two at work and their growing attraction (although both try their best to suppress their personal feelings).
The murder mystery is as always a simple one and the culprit was pretty predictable. But unlike in previous Gaslight mysteries, I couldn't connect much with the story. The story has a dark and creepy touch and should have made the perfect platform for a murder-mystery themed story. But unfortunately the story didn't sit well with me. I felt the whole story to be a little unnatural and forced.
What I did enjoy was the character development of Sarah and Malloy and their growing intimacy. Sarah is growing as a more strong and independent as a woman and at the same time she is growing in her femininity; and Frank is finally shelling his facade of indifference. I think Ms. Thompson has focused more on character development rather than on the story in this novel.
The murder mystery is as always a simple one and the culprit was pretty predictable. But unlike in previous Gaslight mysteries, I couldn't connect much with the story. The story has a dark and creepy touch and should have made the perfect platform for a murder-mystery themed story. But unfortunately the story didn't sit well with me. I felt the whole story to be a little unnatural and forced.
What I did enjoy was the character development of Sarah and Malloy and their growing intimacy. Sarah is growing as a more strong and independent as a woman and at the same time she is growing in her femininity; and Frank is finally shelling his facade of indifference. I think Ms. Thompson has focused more on character development rather than on the story in this novel.
June 15, 2018
Midwife Sarah Brandt has gotten involved with the work of the Prodigal Son Mission which helps teenage women learn skills to keep them off the streets. That’s how she is able to identify the body that Detective Sergeant Frank has found in a park – it’s one of the girls from the mission. With no one to push the police to find justice for this girl, Sarah insists that Frank figure out what happened, with a little help from her. Will they find the killer?
I was compelled to read this book soon after I read the previous one with the promise of an update on an ongoing storyline. We do get quite a twist there before this book is over. The main mystery was a little weak, however. I didn’t feel like it had the twists we normally get, although maybe that’s because I had an idea what was going early in the book. The pages still flew by since the characters are strong and the time period comes to vivid life. Any time spent in this series is time well spent.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I was compelled to read this book soon after I read the previous one with the promise of an update on an ongoing storyline. We do get quite a twist there before this book is over. The main mystery was a little weak, however. I didn’t feel like it had the twists we normally get, although maybe that’s because I had an idea what was going early in the book. The pages still flew by since the characters are strong and the time period comes to vivid life. Any time spent in this series is time well spent.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
March 29, 2014
This is the 5th in the Gaslight mystery series, and they only get better. Sarah or Mrs. Brandt as the widow is most often called, gets caught up in another murder. In this one, Frank Malloy, her friend and Dectetive, is called to a murder scene of a young woman killed in a park in turn-of-the-century New York. As he looks down at the victim, he is startled to see a familiar hat and blonde hair and is so shaken he asks the policeman to turn her over, and only when he sees it is NOT, Mrs. Brandt does he take a breath. It seems Mrs. Brandt had given away some clothing to a mission that helps young girls. As the plot deepens, so does the relationship between the two main characters, even as Sarah continues to step out with the rich and "approved by mom and dad" suitor. The ending was not only fast and furious, but also brought tears to this old sentimental readers eyes.
June 16, 2018
3.5 stars
April 17, 2025
╰┈➤ 5★!!
Murder on Mulberry Bend is the 5th book in Victoria Thompson’s Gaslight Mystery series.
I’m five books in (actually 6 but I read book #26 before going back and starting at the beginning heh) and how wild is it, that Sarah and Frank have only known each other for 6 months when this book takes place!? Like we are still in 1896, just like we were in the first book!! I truly love that so much, as the story isn’t jumping couple of years ahead; but instead, we are seeing Sarah and Frank fall in love with each other in “real time” and it's truly the cutest thing ever 🥺.
── .✦
In this story we get to see Richard Dennis, who we met in the last book, seek Sarah Brandt out to help him understand his late wife better. Hazel Dennis used to help at the Prodigal Son Mission on Mulberry Bend; a refugee for girls who otherwise would have to live by selling the only thing they have of value—themselves. After their visit, Sarah becomes very impressed with their work, so she offers her help by donating old clothes, giving the girls medical and hygiene advice and even hosts a charity dinner to raise funds for the mission. So when one of the girls is found dead because of her formal life, Sarah takes it upon herself to seek out justice.
── .✦
The definitive highlights in this story were the scene when Brian got his cast taken off and both Frank and Sarah were there just bawling; I’m just so happy for little Brian and I’m so excited to see him thrive 🥺. And the next one, where I actually melted when I heard it, was that scene between Frank and Sarah after the incident in the park.
“She had looked like a goddess”
They are just so perfect together and I wish they were already t-o-g-e-t-h-e-r, but I know I’ll have to wait and see what happens in the next book!! And Sarah hinting she might actually adopt little Aggie??? Like my heart 😭 And the last one oh my god??? I cannot believe Thompson just dropped that bomb on us with a possible identity of Sarah’s husband’s killer and Frank didn’t even get to investigate it further!?
── .✦
With all of this happening in this book I actually am bursting with excitement over the next book in the series, but I promised myself (for the 4th time) to take a break from this series and listen to other audiobooks I’ve already purchased before buying more of these 😅
Murder on Mulberry Bend is the 5th book in Victoria Thompson’s Gaslight Mystery series.
I’m five books in (actually 6 but I read book #26 before going back and starting at the beginning heh) and how wild is it, that Sarah and Frank have only known each other for 6 months when this book takes place!? Like we are still in 1896, just like we were in the first book!! I truly love that so much, as the story isn’t jumping couple of years ahead; but instead, we are seeing Sarah and Frank fall in love with each other in “real time” and it's truly the cutest thing ever 🥺.
── .✦
In this story we get to see Richard Dennis, who we met in the last book, seek Sarah Brandt out to help him understand his late wife better. Hazel Dennis used to help at the Prodigal Son Mission on Mulberry Bend; a refugee for girls who otherwise would have to live by selling the only thing they have of value—themselves. After their visit, Sarah becomes very impressed with their work, so she offers her help by donating old clothes, giving the girls medical and hygiene advice and even hosts a charity dinner to raise funds for the mission. So when one of the girls is found dead because of her formal life, Sarah takes it upon herself to seek out justice.
── .✦
The definitive highlights in this story were the scene when Brian got his cast taken off and both Frank and Sarah were there just bawling; I’m just so happy for little Brian and I’m so excited to see him thrive 🥺. And the next one, where I actually melted when I heard it, was that scene between Frank and Sarah after the incident in the park.
“She had looked like a goddess”
They are just so perfect together and I wish they were already t-o-g-e-t-h-e-r, but I know I’ll have to wait and see what happens in the next book!! And Sarah hinting she might actually adopt little Aggie??? Like my heart 😭 And the last one oh my god??? I cannot believe Thompson just dropped that bomb on us with a possible identity of Sarah’s husband’s killer and Frank didn’t even get to investigate it further!?
── .✦
With all of this happening in this book I actually am bursting with excitement over the next book in the series, but I promised myself (for the 4th time) to take a break from this series and listen to other audiobooks I’ve already purchased before buying more of these 😅
May 29, 2020
A young woman who made some poor choices in her life is found murdered. Sarah had met the girl at a mission that was providing an alternative to a life on the streets for young women, and she and Frank Malloy investigate, which gives us a chance to see a little of the tensions between the Irish and Italian immigrants of New York City, and how the rich of the city view these people, if they do at all, as either irredeemable, or needing to be saved.
Frank is having trouble dealing with his feelings, especially as it appears that Sarah is being courted by someone from her social class. Meanwhile, Sarah is forging a sweet relationship with Frank’s son, Brian.
I figured out who the baddie was really early, and that was ok. I read this series for the developing relationships between the characters, and for the historical details. I always learn something new while reading this series, and I am growing ever fonder of determined, kind, and sometimes too naive Sarah and gruff Frank.
Frank is having trouble dealing with his feelings, especially as it appears that Sarah is being courted by someone from her social class. Meanwhile, Sarah is forging a sweet relationship with Frank’s son, Brian.
I figured out who the baddie was really early, and that was ok. I read this series for the developing relationships between the characters, and for the historical details. I always learn something new while reading this series, and I am growing ever fonder of determined, kind, and sometimes too naive Sarah and gruff Frank.
November 22, 2021
2.5 Stars
I've read books 1-5 in order, and I must say book #5 is my least favorite. Sarah didn't seem her usual self and Frank was unlikeable. The murder was unique; but the whole book was a bit of a drag for me. Had I jumped in to this series with this one first, I would have never even finished the book. I will give #6 a go, before I decide to give up or stay with it.
I've read books 1-5 in order, and I must say book #5 is my least favorite. Sarah didn't seem her usual self and Frank was unlikeable. The murder was unique; but the whole book was a bit of a drag for me. Had I jumped in to this series with this one first, I would have never even finished the book. I will give #6 a go, before I decide to give up or stay with it.
December 26, 2018
Sarah Brandt, a midwife in turn-of-the-century New York City, has seen more than her share of joy and sorrow, birth and death. Now she will see for the first time how the squalor of the streets can breed madness and murder…
Murder in Mulberry Bend was one of the better books in the Gaslight series so far. I loved the progress in the relationship of Frank and Sarah in this installment, and throwing someone else into the mix made it even better Frank's investigation into Tom's death is also still ongoing and he makes some progress here so that was another added bonus. I also enjoyed the addition of Addie to the story and the whole School for Wayward Girls.
I wasn't too crazy about how, yet again I figured out who the killer was and what the murder weapon was pretty early on and Sarah and Malloy were so clueless. Still all the other elements of the story made it very enjoyable so I will continue onto the next book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
Murder in Mulberry Bend was one of the better books in the Gaslight series so far. I loved the progress in the relationship of Frank and Sarah in this installment, and throwing someone else into the mix made it even better Frank's investigation into Tom's death is also still ongoing and he makes some progress here so that was another added bonus. I also enjoyed the addition of Addie to the story and the whole School for Wayward Girls.
I wasn't too crazy about how, yet again I figured out who the killer was and what the murder weapon was pretty early on and Sarah and Malloy were so clueless. Still all the other elements of the story made it very enjoyable so I will continue onto the next book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
May 26, 2018
Murder on Mulberry Bend
4 Stars
While the mystery is pretty predictable and it is easy to guess the culprit early on, the insights into the lives of immigrants in the notorious slums of New York city at the turn of the century are very compelling. Moreover, the ongoing relationship between Sarah and Malloy makes this an engaging addition to the series.
Sarah's desire to help the young girls at the mission is admirable, but her naiveté often has her misreading people and their motives. This leads her into trouble that could easily be avoided if she employed a little common sense.
Malloy is much more practical. Although his willingness to resort to violence is troubling, one cannot separate his actions from the circumstances of the time and place.
Malloy and Sarah have wonderful chemistry and it is entertaining to see their one step forward, two steps back romance. That said, it is about time for something to happen between them.
All in all, the Gaslight Mysteries is shaping into one of my favorite series. Looking forward to the next one.
4 Stars
While the mystery is pretty predictable and it is easy to guess the culprit early on, the insights into the lives of immigrants in the notorious slums of New York city at the turn of the century are very compelling. Moreover, the ongoing relationship between Sarah and Malloy makes this an engaging addition to the series.
Sarah's desire to help the young girls at the mission is admirable, but her naiveté often has her misreading people and their motives. This leads her into trouble that could easily be avoided if she employed a little common sense.
Malloy is much more practical. Although his willingness to resort to violence is troubling, one cannot separate his actions from the circumstances of the time and place.
Malloy and Sarah have wonderful chemistry and it is entertaining to see their one step forward, two steps back romance. That said, it is about time for something to happen between them.
All in all, the Gaslight Mysteries is shaping into one of my favorite series. Looking forward to the next one.
January 7, 2021
Another excellent mystery!
I'm reading these book one after the other and find each one as good as the previous!
I also love how passionate, but still naive in her own way Sarah is and how (uselessly) protective Frank is! LOL
And I'm still greatful NOT to live in that period!
I'm reading these book one after the other and find each one as good as the previous!
I also love how passionate, but still naive in her own way Sarah is and how (uselessly) protective Frank is! LOL
And I'm still greatful NOT to live in that period!
April 2, 2022
There was so much that I enjoyed from this one, but hands down, the scenes with Brian (and especially Brian and Sarah) stole the show for me. Frank's awareness here was great, and I appreciate the way both Sarah and Frank's parents factor into the stories. I also really liked how much the overarching storylines from the series moved along in this one (although I assume there are still many twists and turns before we solve Tom's murder).
I thought the main murder mystery at the mission house was relatively well done, although I did basically figure out the responsible party early on. Definitely my favorite of the series so far, and I am anxiously awaiting my hold on the next in the series.
I thought the main murder mystery at the mission house was relatively well done, although I did basically figure out the responsible party early on. Definitely my favorite of the series so far, and I am anxiously awaiting my hold on the next in the series.
June 23, 2025
A young woman who lives in a shelter that Sarah Brandt would like to be a patron of is murdered. She had recently donated clothing at the shelter and the victim was wearing items that had belonged to Sarah. This makes the death feel more personal to her and as she is wont to do, she begins her own investigation despite the cautions of police officer Frank Molloy.
It was good to be back with Sarah, a midwife, who is a progressive woman for her time. My favourite part of this series is the historical information about New York. This entry focuses more on the slowly (very slowly) developing relationship between Sarah and Frank and I missed the detailed information on a particular setting. Still, a good read for historical mystery fans and I will continue with the series.
It was good to be back with Sarah, a midwife, who is a progressive woman for her time. My favourite part of this series is the historical information about New York. This entry focuses more on the slowly (very slowly) developing relationship between Sarah and Frank and I missed the detailed information on a particular setting. Still, a good read for historical mystery fans and I will continue with the series.
June 24, 2021
This book evokes many emotions in me, particularly sadness. Sadness for the young girls who were abandoned and forced into selling themselves at a age as young as 14. Sadness for the immigrants who were treated so badly and sadness for the lives of innocents lost just because of one person’s strange beliefs.
The relationship between Sarah and Frank continues to build up and it was so sweet with the way he reacted when he thought it was Sarah when he found the body. I wish he would just act on his feelings soon.
This series continues to grows on me and I really enjoys it.
The relationship between Sarah and Frank continues to build up and it was so sweet with the way he reacted when he thought it was Sarah when he found the body. I wish he would just act on his feelings soon.
This series continues to grows on me and I really enjoys it.
July 9, 2023
Victoria Thompson started with a bang by being inventive and daring. Her first few adventures were engrossing and vividly showed 1900s New York City. I am not a fan of implausibly drummed up plot twists in the fad to fool folks. Story quality can be compromised and a straightforward mystery will do. However, it is a different faux-pas for a villain and the direction of their motive to be obvious. We spend the story waiting for the protagonists to wise up. I understand rushing an ending occasionally but think this is the third time Victoria seemed to put no effort into crafting a mystery for us to unravel. It was plunked down so that the explanations and characters around it seemed like stock responses, not a story that built momentum.
“Murder On Mulberry Bend” from 2003, advances the healing of little Brian Malloy and the sweet relationship of Sarah and her Mom, comfortable on both sides of her tracks. “Will they or won’t they?” has languished enough but romance is not my reading focus. Another exacerbated trope is police chasing sleuths from cases. Civilian protagonists are the draw of every story. I appreciated the New York history and cringed at mind-numbingly stupid cultural rivalries.
From old centuries to now, people do not see that religions are worshiped more than God. Otherwise there would be no argument. God is in every positive action anyone takes. There are no rules about that.
Anne Perry plotted a crime sinisterly around piousness in 1979 but Victoria used stereotypes, except for one excellent point. Heaven is a sacred place but we do not rush there. We are meant to survive and thrive on Earth. There would have been three stars but ridiculous drama was tacked on, death from a minor injury. Some authors tank endings.
“Murder On Mulberry Bend” from 2003, advances the healing of little Brian Malloy and the sweet relationship of Sarah and her Mom, comfortable on both sides of her tracks. “Will they or won’t they?” has languished enough but romance is not my reading focus. Another exacerbated trope is police chasing sleuths from cases. Civilian protagonists are the draw of every story. I appreciated the New York history and cringed at mind-numbingly stupid cultural rivalries.
From old centuries to now, people do not see that religions are worshiped more than God. Otherwise there would be no argument. God is in every positive action anyone takes. There are no rules about that.
Anne Perry plotted a crime sinisterly around piousness in 1979 but Victoria used stereotypes, except for one excellent point. Heaven is a sacred place but we do not rush there. We are meant to survive and thrive on Earth. There would have been three stars but ridiculous drama was tacked on, death from a minor injury. Some authors tank endings.
March 25, 2023
This is the fifth book of Victoria Thompson's Gaslight series. Once again, it features the two main characters in the series, midwife Sarah Brandt and Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy. Sarah is the daughter of one of the prominent Knickerbocker families of New York City, now a widowed midwife, and Frank is a member of the New York City Police Department.
Widower Richard Dennis, a family friend, asks Sarah's help in understanding the last days of his wife, Hazel. It seems she found comfort volunteering at a mission house, The Prodigal Son Mission, right before she died. Richard feels immense guilt in not knowing what Hazel was so passionate about those last months. Sarah immediately finds herself drawn to the young, unfortunate women that the mission tends to. After visiting it with Richard and bringing a donation of her old clothes, she decides that she could teach a hygiene class to these women and perhaps keep them from a life of ruin. When Frank Malloy finds a young woman's body wearing Sarah's hat, he panics. Realizing that the dead woman isn't Sarah, he asks for her help in identifying the body.
Set in turn of the century New York, the book is filled with period details and the actions of the characters are governed by the social formalities and politics of the times. This series seems very well researched even though it's often not that difficult to figure out who the killer is. I'm also enjoying the progress made on the personal relationships of the characters. There are new developments for young Brian Malloy and entertaining internal battles for Frank as he copes with Sarah's continuing relationship with Richard Dennis.
I continue to read this charming series for fun and leisure.
Widower Richard Dennis, a family friend, asks Sarah's help in understanding the last days of his wife, Hazel. It seems she found comfort volunteering at a mission house, The Prodigal Son Mission, right before she died. Richard feels immense guilt in not knowing what Hazel was so passionate about those last months. Sarah immediately finds herself drawn to the young, unfortunate women that the mission tends to. After visiting it with Richard and bringing a donation of her old clothes, she decides that she could teach a hygiene class to these women and perhaps keep them from a life of ruin. When Frank Malloy finds a young woman's body wearing Sarah's hat, he panics. Realizing that the dead woman isn't Sarah, he asks for her help in identifying the body.
Set in turn of the century New York, the book is filled with period details and the actions of the characters are governed by the social formalities and politics of the times. This series seems very well researched even though it's often not that difficult to figure out who the killer is. I'm also enjoying the progress made on the personal relationships of the characters. There are new developments for young Brian Malloy and entertaining internal battles for Frank as he copes with Sarah's continuing relationship with Richard Dennis.
I continue to read this charming series for fun and leisure.
March 24, 2019
Rating: 5 / 5
Yet another great read with no end in sight!
To be honest, again the mystery element of this--to the "main" mystery, I mean, not Frank's side-quest of finding out the death of Tom Brandt--wasn't the strongest for me, as I did guess whodunnit fairly early on.
However, what really stands out about this one in particular is the psychological development of the characters, as well as seeing Frank's police "methods" for extracting a confession at work. It made me realize that, yes, technically what he does isn't really honourable and may even come across as harsh, but then, with some of the people he encounters, there really is no other way to get things solved. The only difference is that, once again, he's very conscious of Sarah's influence on him, and--finally!--admits to himself how he feels about her. Again, very big leaps and bounds with his psychology in this one, so well done on that front.
The epilogue definitely gives some hints for future developments though, on both Frank and Sarah's behalves. For Frank, it's finally coming to terms with how he feels and making a move towards doing something about it, and for Sarah it's the prospect of potentially adopting a little girl. (Now, for this latter one, I have no idea if the little girl character will be introduced yet again, but let's just say that the sentimental puffball within me sees the girl, Aggie, and Brian being good friends. Again, just wishy-washy at this point, so let's put that aside.)
Once again, a fantastic read, still keeps me up on the hype of getting through all of these Gaslight Mysteries, and the next book is already in my Amazon cart.
Yet another great read with no end in sight!
To be honest, again the mystery element of this--to the "main" mystery, I mean, not Frank's side-quest of finding out the death of Tom Brandt--wasn't the strongest for me, as I did guess whodunnit fairly early on.
However, what really stands out about this one in particular is the psychological development of the characters, as well as seeing Frank's police "methods" for extracting a confession at work. It made me realize that, yes, technically what he does isn't really honourable and may even come across as harsh, but then, with some of the people he encounters, there really is no other way to get things solved. The only difference is that, once again, he's very conscious of Sarah's influence on him, and--finally!--admits to himself how he feels about her. Again, very big leaps and bounds with his psychology in this one, so well done on that front.
The epilogue definitely gives some hints for future developments though, on both Frank and Sarah's behalves. For Frank, it's finally coming to terms with how he feels and making a move towards doing something about it, and for Sarah it's the prospect of potentially adopting a little girl. (Now, for this latter one, I have no idea if the little girl character will be introduced yet again, but let's just say that the sentimental puffball within me sees the girl, Aggie, and Brian being good friends. Again, just wishy-washy at this point, so let's put that aside.)
Once again, a fantastic read, still keeps me up on the hype of getting through all of these Gaslight Mysteries, and the next book is already in my Amazon cart.
October 7, 2020
Sarah decides that she doesn't have to do being a midwife and all, so she starts volunteering at a shelter for homeless girls. Of course, soon after she starts volunteering, there is a murder. Sarah gets Frank involved and they discover that is not the only girl that has "disappeared" or been "lost."
I enjoyed the mystery quite a bit. I love Frank and Brian. Brian gets his cast off in this story. Sarah and Frank's relationship is spot on. I love Sarah and her attitude toward life. She's an impressive character. She's kind, practical, smart, and charming. It would be surprising if Frank wasn't in love with her! Who wouldn't be?!
Just 8 more books to write reviews on in this series and I'll be caught up. I'm still mad at myself for not writing my reviews right after reading so I could remember all the specifics. There were all these cute moments between Frank and Sarah but I can't remember which books they were in so I don't want to mention them. ;p
I enjoyed the mystery quite a bit. I love Frank and Brian. Brian gets his cast off in this story. Sarah and Frank's relationship is spot on. I love Sarah and her attitude toward life. She's an impressive character. She's kind, practical, smart, and charming. It would be surprising if Frank wasn't in love with her! Who wouldn't be?!
Just 8 more books to write reviews on in this series and I'll be caught up. I'm still mad at myself for not writing my reviews right after reading so I could remember all the specifics. There were all these cute moments between Frank and Sarah but I can't remember which books they were in so I don't want to mention them. ;p
February 28, 2014
This annoy me to no end. Don't get me wrong, Sarah can be smart but this book showed me how stupid and gullible she is. I figured who the killer was the first, yes the first time, if you can believe it, they interviewed her which was just a few chapter from the beginning. Now you'd think mystery books are suppose to make sure the readers don't figure that out especially when they haven't finished half of the book yet.
So that's why i was pretty mad when Sarah starts making the wrong theories and stupid decisions (like the evidences are not staring her right in the face).
Gaslight Mystery books are hit and miss for me. This is the third book in this series i have manage to solve. This is even worst because the book hasn't even started yet and i already knew the culprit is.
So that's why i was pretty mad when Sarah starts making the wrong theories and stupid decisions (like the evidences are not staring her right in the face).
Gaslight Mystery books are hit and miss for me. This is the third book in this series i have manage to solve. This is even worst because the book hasn't even started yet and i already knew the culprit is.
October 26, 2019
New York City at the turn of the century. In one of the seediest parts of town, near the eponymous Mulberry Bend of Murder on Mulberry Bend, stands the Prodigal Son Mission. Somewhat contrary to the expectations raised by its name, the Prodigal Son Mission, run by a widow named Mrs Wells, looks after the well-being of the daughters of the area: saving girls and young women from a life of destitution and prostitution, imparting education, and showing them how to earn an honest living.
Midwife and often-detective Sarah Brandt comes to the mission by chance, accompanying a friend whose long-dead wife had volunteered there for a while. Sarah brings along a donation: some old clothes, an old hat, and so on.
A few days later, a young Italian woman named Emilia—whom Sarah had met briefly that day at the mission—is found dead, stabbed in the nape in a park. She had been given Sarah’s old clothes, and that is reason enough to make a shaken Sarah determined to find her killer.
The mystery is not terribly complicated, but there are enough red herrings and twists to make it interesting. The detective work and deduction made sense, and everything fitted in well. What really shone for me, though, was the way Victoria Thompson was able to bring to life the New York of that era: the wealth and grandeur on the one hand, the utter poverty and desperation on the other. The social strata, the hostility and prejudices, the way everything from race to religion divided people.
I liked both Sarah Brandt and the wonderfully human policeman, Frank Malloy, with whom Sarah’s relationship—somewhere between lovers and friends, closer to the former than the latter—is one of the most attractive aspects of the book outside of the mystery angle. Just to see how these two go on, I’d like to read more of the books in this series.
That said, I didn’t like that one important piece of information (not related to the main mystery, I’ll add) is left hanging at the end. A tantalizing titbit thrown in, and you don’t even know whether it will be resolved in the book that follows, or not.
Midwife and often-detective Sarah Brandt comes to the mission by chance, accompanying a friend whose long-dead wife had volunteered there for a while. Sarah brings along a donation: some old clothes, an old hat, and so on.
A few days later, a young Italian woman named Emilia—whom Sarah had met briefly that day at the mission—is found dead, stabbed in the nape in a park. She had been given Sarah’s old clothes, and that is reason enough to make a shaken Sarah determined to find her killer.
The mystery is not terribly complicated, but there are enough red herrings and twists to make it interesting. The detective work and deduction made sense, and everything fitted in well. What really shone for me, though, was the way Victoria Thompson was able to bring to life the New York of that era: the wealth and grandeur on the one hand, the utter poverty and desperation on the other. The social strata, the hostility and prejudices, the way everything from race to religion divided people.
I liked both Sarah Brandt and the wonderfully human policeman, Frank Malloy, with whom Sarah’s relationship—somewhere between lovers and friends, closer to the former than the latter—is one of the most attractive aspects of the book outside of the mystery angle. Just to see how these two go on, I’d like to read more of the books in this series.
That said, I didn’t like that one important piece of information (not related to the main mystery, I’ll add) is left hanging at the end. A tantalizing titbit thrown in, and you don’t even know whether it will be resolved in the book that follows, or not.
April 21, 2019
Thank God this one is over!!!
So happy her party companion died because it was so damn boring reading about her attending to them! I don't know what I would do if I had to read another instalment with this duo and their social outgoings!
Things I didn't like:
This instalment didn't feel like much of a crime novel!
Sarah's behaviour who lead Dennis on by happily going out and about with him and making Malloy jealous just because she could without any other purpose to it!
That I figured out the who dunnit part very early on!
Things I did like:
Frank Malloy!
Malloy investigating Tom Brandt's murder! (I'm very curious to see where that will lead him)
Little Aggie!
So happy her party companion died because it was so damn boring reading about her attending to them! I don't know what I would do if I had to read another instalment with this duo and their social outgoings!
Things I didn't like:
This instalment didn't feel like much of a crime novel!
Sarah's behaviour who lead Dennis on by happily going out and about with him and making Malloy jealous just because she could without any other purpose to it!
That I figured out the who dunnit part very early on!
Things I did like:
Frank Malloy!
Malloy investigating Tom Brandt's murder! (I'm very curious to see where that will lead him)
Little Aggie!
June 26, 2023
While I love this series and I did enjoy this book - it was way to easy to guess who the murderer was. It was still a decent mystery and there was plenty of character development as well.
There was one really big reveal in this book - it remains to be seen if what was disclosed was actually true or not. I cannot wait to see where this story goes.
If you have not read any of these books I recommend you start with book 1 now.
There was one really big reveal in this book - it remains to be seen if what was disclosed was actually true or not. I cannot wait to see where this story goes.
If you have not read any of these books I recommend you start with book 1 now.
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