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Anna Katharine Green Mysteries #1
A Deed of Dreadful Note
Fifteen years before Sir Arthur Conan Doyle published A Study in Scarlet, Anna Katharine Green began writing The Leavenworth Case, inspiring the creation of detectives like Sherlock, Poirot, and Wimsey, as well as almost every device and convention we now recognize as standard in detective mystery fiction.
When her father's client is found murdered, Anna takes up the call to prove innocent the young girl accused of the murder. The investigation inspires many of the events, characters, and descriptions that would later be published in her debut novel.
A love letter to mystery and writing itself, A Deed of Dreadful Note is an homage and reintroduction to an author who was the Agatha Christie of her time but a forgotten female today.
This book is a fictionalized account of how Anna Katharine Green’s first novel may have come to be…
A Deed of Dreadful Note is Book One in the Anna Katharine Green Mysteries, the only historical fiction series featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction.
When her father's client is found murdered, Anna takes up the call to prove innocent the young girl accused of the murder. The investigation inspires many of the events, characters, and descriptions that would later be published in her debut novel.
A love letter to mystery and writing itself, A Deed of Dreadful Note is an homage and reintroduction to an author who was the Agatha Christie of her time but a forgotten female today.
This book is a fictionalized account of how Anna Katharine Green’s first novel may have come to be…
A Deed of Dreadful Note is Book One in the Anna Katharine Green Mysteries, the only historical fiction series featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction.
325 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 30, 2023
3 people are currently reading
1197 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Meredith
13 books91 followerslinktr.ee/pmeredithauthor
Patricia Meredith is an author of historical and cozy mysteries. When she’s not writing, she’s playing board games with her husband, creating imaginary worlds with her two children, or out in the garden reading a good book with a cup of tea. Patricia's first series, the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, is the product of uncovering fascinating local history circa 1901, making it the first historical mystery series set in Spokane, Washington. Her second series about Anna Katharine Green is the first and only historical fiction featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction. Her mysteries are clean, cozy reads known for their quirky yet believable characters.
Before taking the dive into mystery, Patricia Meredith was the fiction editor of over 20 novels and miscellaneous publications, working with magazines, businesses, and publishers on a variety of projects from art books (such as The Art of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire) to fantasy novels (such as Rising Sun, Falling Shadows, winner of the 2013 Scribe Award for Best Original Novel). Her specialty is science-fiction and fantasy novels. She has worked with such names as George R.R. Martin, Tracy Hickman, and Graham McNeill. She launched the novel department for Fantasy Flight Games, so she also has experience in the behind-the-scenes of publication.
Patricia Meredith is an author of historical and cozy mysteries. When she’s not writing, she’s playing board games with her husband, creating imaginary worlds with her two children, or out in the garden reading a good book with a cup of tea. Patricia's first series, the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, is the product of uncovering fascinating local history circa 1901, making it the first historical mystery series set in Spokane, Washington. Her second series about Anna Katharine Green is the first and only historical fiction featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction. Her mysteries are clean, cozy reads known for their quirky yet believable characters.
Before taking the dive into mystery, Patricia Meredith was the fiction editor of over 20 novels and miscellaneous publications, working with magazines, businesses, and publishers on a variety of projects from art books (such as The Art of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire) to fantasy novels (such as Rising Sun, Falling Shadows, winner of the 2013 Scribe Award for Best Original Novel). Her specialty is science-fiction and fantasy novels. She has worked with such names as George R.R. Martin, Tracy Hickman, and Graham McNeill. She launched the novel department for Fantasy Flight Games, so she also has experience in the behind-the-scenes of publication.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 29, 2023
"Patricia Meredith's best book yet!"
(Quoting my Mom and posting on her behalf since she doesn't have Goodreads.)
(Quoting my Mom and posting on her behalf since she doesn't have Goodreads.)
September 11, 2023
Color me impressed! I know that there are a lot of historical mysteries being published with either a mystery writer or a main character from a famous series now. I never have heard of Anna Katherine Green. To my surprise she was the first woman to have her detective novel published under her full name in 1878. Patricia Meredith has written an authors note
I have to admit that I found fascinating (and will take me to many places in google). Two of the things that she mentioned here that I found the most interesting were that Agatha Christie was impressed with Green's first mystery The Leavenworth Case so much so that Christie knew how she wanted to write her own detective novels. The second was Yale put The Leavenworth Case in its list of required reading!
As for this book, A Deed of Dreadful Note, I found it interesting and absorbing-- but must also add on exceptionally charming. Patricia Meredith has gotten the tone of the story exactly right (in my opinion). There were things that I expect from an old fashioned mystery that I got and loved. But there were also surprises that pulled at my heart.
I have to admit that I found fascinating (and will take me to many places in google). Two of the things that she mentioned here that I found the most interesting were that Agatha Christie was impressed with Green's first mystery The Leavenworth Case so much so that Christie knew how she wanted to write her own detective novels. The second was Yale put The Leavenworth Case in its list of required reading!
As for this book, A Deed of Dreadful Note, I found it interesting and absorbing-- but must also add on exceptionally charming. Patricia Meredith has gotten the tone of the story exactly right (in my opinion). There were things that I expect from an old fashioned mystery that I got and loved. But there were also surprises that pulled at my heart.
June 5, 2023
4.5 stars (rounded up)
Mystery and historical fiction are not the type of stories I naturally gravitate towards, except when they are written by Patricia Meredith. Earlier this year, The Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries instantly became one of my favourite series and this newest release by Meredith truly solidified her as one of my all-time favourite authors.
In A Deed of Dreadful Note, historical fiction and murder mystery are cleverly blended to create one of the most unique and gripping stories I have read in a long while. This is historical mystery at its very best.
This story is set up as a sort of ‘mystery within a mystery’, which immediately makes it stand out from the crowd to me. We follow real-life author Anna Katharine Green, a.k.a. ‘the mother of detective fiction’, as she becomes entangled in a murder investigation and at the same time starts to write her very first mystery novel. What follows is a riveting tale full of page-turning suspense, clever misdirects, jaw-dropping reveals, delightful female empowerment, and a delicious dose of slow-burn romance.
Now, I already knew I loved Meredith’s character work from reading The Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, but I was somehow still floored by the sheer brilliance of this delightful cast of characters.
I’ll admit that I am not too familiar with Anna Katherine Green (yet), but I absolutely loved how Meredith brought her (back) to life in this story. Anna is a strong-willed and forward thinking young woman, but never to the point that it becomes unbelievable for someone living in her time period. I immediately latched onto her and loved following her journey from start to finish.
The side characters were also all just as fleshed out and three-dimensional as Anna herself and I loved all the complex character dynamics here. Family, friendship and romance are all important features of this story, but those relationships never distract from the main plot. It did take me a while to warm up to the main love interest, but by the end I realised I had been completely won over. There is some beautiful character growth involved and I loved seeing their reluctant partnership blossom into a beautiful yet bittersweet romance. I felt so deeply for these characters, so you better believe that both tears of laughter and tears of pain were shed. This book was just one heck of a wild emotional rollercoaster and I loved it all the more for it.
The murder mystery that Anna and her companions are trying to solve was also extremely well-written and kept me on my toes the entire way through. I really enjoyed how Meredith played around with genre conventions to create a surprising and fun mystery with all the crazy twists and turns.
But what I loved even more was seeing how Anna used the murder case as inspiration for her own first mystery novel. If you hadn’t told me that this was a fictionalised account of how she started her writing career, then I would easily have believed that this was the true origin story.
Meredith is just a master at blending truth and fiction, which makes her books feel so incredibly authentic and immersive. Real historical figures, events and places are seamlessly incorporated into the story and there are also plenty of real-life quotes by Anna that made their way into this particular book. The insane level of care and attention to historical detail just blows me away and definitely raised the bar for every other historical mystery that I’ll read from here on out.
Needless to say, I absolutely loved this book. Every single scene just hits, so there truly wasn’t a single dull moment in the story. And the beautiful thing is that you don’t have to know anything about Anna Katharine Green to enjoy this fictionalised account of the start of her writing career.
Fair warning though, you’ll probably want to start your own detective journey to find out everything you can about this amazing woman once you finish this book. At least, that’s the case for me, and I am not even mad about it.
So, whether you like mystery and historical fiction or not, you simply have to check out this book. And if you get the chance to listen to the audiobook, which is narrated by the author herself, then I highly recommend you do so.
A Deed of Dreadful Note is an inventive and character-driven historical mystery with a lot of heart, I really can’t recommend it highly enough!
Mystery and historical fiction are not the type of stories I naturally gravitate towards, except when they are written by Patricia Meredith. Earlier this year, The Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries instantly became one of my favourite series and this newest release by Meredith truly solidified her as one of my all-time favourite authors.
In A Deed of Dreadful Note, historical fiction and murder mystery are cleverly blended to create one of the most unique and gripping stories I have read in a long while. This is historical mystery at its very best.
This story is set up as a sort of ‘mystery within a mystery’, which immediately makes it stand out from the crowd to me. We follow real-life author Anna Katharine Green, a.k.a. ‘the mother of detective fiction’, as she becomes entangled in a murder investigation and at the same time starts to write her very first mystery novel. What follows is a riveting tale full of page-turning suspense, clever misdirects, jaw-dropping reveals, delightful female empowerment, and a delicious dose of slow-burn romance.
Now, I already knew I loved Meredith’s character work from reading The Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, but I was somehow still floored by the sheer brilliance of this delightful cast of characters.
I’ll admit that I am not too familiar with Anna Katherine Green (yet), but I absolutely loved how Meredith brought her (back) to life in this story. Anna is a strong-willed and forward thinking young woman, but never to the point that it becomes unbelievable for someone living in her time period. I immediately latched onto her and loved following her journey from start to finish.
The side characters were also all just as fleshed out and three-dimensional as Anna herself and I loved all the complex character dynamics here. Family, friendship and romance are all important features of this story, but those relationships never distract from the main plot. It did take me a while to warm up to the main love interest, but by the end I realised I had been completely won over. There is some beautiful character growth involved and I loved seeing their reluctant partnership blossom into a beautiful yet bittersweet romance. I felt so deeply for these characters, so you better believe that both tears of laughter and tears of pain were shed. This book was just one heck of a wild emotional rollercoaster and I loved it all the more for it.
The murder mystery that Anna and her companions are trying to solve was also extremely well-written and kept me on my toes the entire way through. I really enjoyed how Meredith played around with genre conventions to create a surprising and fun mystery with all the crazy twists and turns.
But what I loved even more was seeing how Anna used the murder case as inspiration for her own first mystery novel. If you hadn’t told me that this was a fictionalised account of how she started her writing career, then I would easily have believed that this was the true origin story.
Meredith is just a master at blending truth and fiction, which makes her books feel so incredibly authentic and immersive. Real historical figures, events and places are seamlessly incorporated into the story and there are also plenty of real-life quotes by Anna that made their way into this particular book. The insane level of care and attention to historical detail just blows me away and definitely raised the bar for every other historical mystery that I’ll read from here on out.
Needless to say, I absolutely loved this book. Every single scene just hits, so there truly wasn’t a single dull moment in the story. And the beautiful thing is that you don’t have to know anything about Anna Katharine Green to enjoy this fictionalised account of the start of her writing career.
Fair warning though, you’ll probably want to start your own detective journey to find out everything you can about this amazing woman once you finish this book. At least, that’s the case for me, and I am not even mad about it.
So, whether you like mystery and historical fiction or not, you simply have to check out this book. And if you get the chance to listen to the audiobook, which is narrated by the author herself, then I highly recommend you do so.
A Deed of Dreadful Note is an inventive and character-driven historical mystery with a lot of heart, I really can’t recommend it highly enough!
July 22, 2023
4/5
Patricia's writing style is so delightfully warm and atmospheric, and she's done it again in this murder mystery detailing the life and writing of Anna Katharine Green. The book manages to merge history and fiction with the perfect balance, exploring the origin story of a prolific writer.
I am admittedly not an experienced cozy murder mystery reader, but Patricia has set the bar high for any future quests I take into the genre. Her characters are immediately real and engaging, her careful layout of information through story never feels forced, and I appreciate being brought along through the hints and twists and turns alongside the characters. I dislike reading books where I feel as though I'm being intentionally kept out to prove how "smart" the story is, and I never find that atmosphere in Patricia's stories.
The historical aspect of these mysteries is always so vibrantly brought to life that it comes off the page. It takes very little effort on the part of the reader to immerse in an authentic world with intriguing historical details.
There were a few times where it was a bit difficult to balance the personal life story of Anna, our headstrong and intelligent protagonist, with the crime that was happening. There were moments when I wanted more of one or the other.
The side characters are another positive element to the stories that Patricia writes. The protagonist is joined by a cohort of interesting fellows, and even those with brief cameos are given enough detail to be interesting.
In conclusion, I will read continue to read any murder mysteries that Patricia writes. She has a wonderful narrative voice, authentic characters, with just the right blend of cozy and ... "oh and also there's a dead body."
Patricia's writing style is so delightfully warm and atmospheric, and she's done it again in this murder mystery detailing the life and writing of Anna Katharine Green. The book manages to merge history and fiction with the perfect balance, exploring the origin story of a prolific writer.
I am admittedly not an experienced cozy murder mystery reader, but Patricia has set the bar high for any future quests I take into the genre. Her characters are immediately real and engaging, her careful layout of information through story never feels forced, and I appreciate being brought along through the hints and twists and turns alongside the characters. I dislike reading books where I feel as though I'm being intentionally kept out to prove how "smart" the story is, and I never find that atmosphere in Patricia's stories.
The historical aspect of these mysteries is always so vibrantly brought to life that it comes off the page. It takes very little effort on the part of the reader to immerse in an authentic world with intriguing historical details.
There were a few times where it was a bit difficult to balance the personal life story of Anna, our headstrong and intelligent protagonist, with the crime that was happening. There were moments when I wanted more of one or the other.
The side characters are another positive element to the stories that Patricia writes. The protagonist is joined by a cohort of interesting fellows, and even those with brief cameos are given enough detail to be interesting.
In conclusion, I will read continue to read any murder mysteries that Patricia writes. She has a wonderful narrative voice, authentic characters, with just the right blend of cozy and ... "oh and also there's a dead body."
June 1, 2023
This follows a real life author Anna Katherine Green who is an inspiration to many mystery authors. Patricia Meredith did a fantastic job in bringing her back as a character. We not only see Anna solving the mystery, but also how she started her journey as a writer. And it has one of my favourite romances in fiction.
Spoiler-free video review: https://youtu.be/h2PN1oIUp8c
Spoiler-free video review: https://youtu.be/h2PN1oIUp8c
June 2, 2023
⭐️ RELEASE WEEK REVIEW ⭐️
A DEED OF DREADFUL NOTE
(Anna Katharine Green Mysteries Book 1)
by Patricia Meredith. Out now.
A love letter to mystery and writing itself, this stellar histfic mystery is an homage and reintroduction to an author who was the Agatha Christie of her time.
SYNOPSIS
Fifteen years before Sir Arthur Conan Doyle published A Study in Scarlet, Anna Katharine Green began writing The Leavenworth Case, inspiring the creation of detectives like Sherlock, Poirot, and Wimsey, as well as almost every device and convention we now recognize as standard in detective mystery fiction.
When her father's client is found murdered, Anna takes up the call to prove innocent the young girl accused of the murder. The investigation inspires many of the events, characters, and descriptions that would later be published in her debut novel.
A Deed of Dreadful Note is Book One in the Anna Katharine Green Mysteries, the only historical fiction series featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction.
This book is a fictionalized account of how Anna Katharine Green’s first novel may have come to be.
MY THOUGHTS
What a unique and thrilling histfic account of
Anna Katharine Green, pioneer of the detective novel. The narrative grips, the rich characterization of Anna engages, and the entire concept is genius. From page one, I could not put this stunner down, and highly recommend it to histfic mystery fans and anyone who loves a brilliantly told tale!
Thanks to @pmeredithauthor for the glorious review copy. Opinions are mine.
#adeedofdreadfulnote #authorpatriciameredith
#annakatherinegreenfiction #historicalmystery #motherofdetectivefiction #femalesleuths #theagathachristieofhertime #forgottenfemalenovelist #bookstagramcommunity
A DEED OF DREADFUL NOTE
(Anna Katharine Green Mysteries Book 1)
by Patricia Meredith. Out now.
A love letter to mystery and writing itself, this stellar histfic mystery is an homage and reintroduction to an author who was the Agatha Christie of her time.
SYNOPSIS
Fifteen years before Sir Arthur Conan Doyle published A Study in Scarlet, Anna Katharine Green began writing The Leavenworth Case, inspiring the creation of detectives like Sherlock, Poirot, and Wimsey, as well as almost every device and convention we now recognize as standard in detective mystery fiction.
When her father's client is found murdered, Anna takes up the call to prove innocent the young girl accused of the murder. The investigation inspires many of the events, characters, and descriptions that would later be published in her debut novel.
A Deed of Dreadful Note is Book One in the Anna Katharine Green Mysteries, the only historical fiction series featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction.
This book is a fictionalized account of how Anna Katharine Green’s first novel may have come to be.
MY THOUGHTS
What a unique and thrilling histfic account of
Anna Katharine Green, pioneer of the detective novel. The narrative grips, the rich characterization of Anna engages, and the entire concept is genius. From page one, I could not put this stunner down, and highly recommend it to histfic mystery fans and anyone who loves a brilliantly told tale!
Thanks to @pmeredithauthor for the glorious review copy. Opinions are mine.
#adeedofdreadfulnote #authorpatriciameredith
#annakatherinegreenfiction #historicalmystery #motherofdetectivefiction #femalesleuths #theagathachristieofhertime #forgottenfemalenovelist #bookstagramcommunity
June 25, 2023
4.5 stars!
June 26, 2023
4.5/5 Stars Rounded to 5 Stars
A story built from passion with incredible delivery. A Deed of Dreadful Note by Patricia Meredith is the first book in a new self-published historical fiction series, the Anna Katherine Green Mysteries.
This story depicts how Anna Katherine Green’s first novel may have come to be. When her father’s client is found murdered, Anna joins in the investigations to help prove the innocence of the young girl accused of the murder. While the investigation is ongoing, Anna begins writing her own mystery.
At this point, it’s safe to say that Patricia Meredith has quickly become one of my favourite authors. With each novel I’ve read by her, I found myself in binge-worthy reads evoking a variety of experiences from shock, heart break and delight, all while trying to solve the mystery alongside the characters. Her ability to craft loveable characters, intriguing mysteries and cover topics of mental health and disabilities with sensitivity while remaining historically accurate are impressive.
A Deed of Dreadful Note captured much of this. I quickly came to care for the character’s and found myself rooting for Anna as she tried to solve a murder and find herself as an author. Patricia Meredith also leaves multiple trails of breadcrumbs throughout the story for readers to follow, while sowing doubt. This allowed me a chance to try and solve the mystery alongside Anna making me that much more invested.
Part of what made this so compelling is seeing it all through Anna’s perspective. She is an observant and strong character, continually facing every obstacle with determination. Even while pushing the social expectations of the period, she remains believable.
In fact, the same can be said for the side cast, as they receive similar care in their development, roles, and relationships. Making it easy to connect with the characters while still questioning everything to solve the murder. Now, the banter between characters was spot on and had me keeping score, while naturally building their relationships.
As this is a fictionalized tale of the real author Anna Katherine Green, and the journey that might have been while writing her first novel. The attention to detail in the historical aspects, not just the time period but also accounts from the authors life, are impressive. It truly is a project of passion with how much thought has gone into creating this story and Anna’s character based off the real author.
In terms of pacing, it shifted between medium to a whirlwind of an ending. Including plenty of suspense, suspicion, emotional moments, and twists along the way.
I did immersion read this with the ebook and audiobook. Patricia Meredith narrates the story herself and she did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life.
A Deed of Dreadful Note is yet another book by Patricia Meredith I can’t recommend enough.
A story built from passion with incredible delivery. A Deed of Dreadful Note by Patricia Meredith is the first book in a new self-published historical fiction series, the Anna Katherine Green Mysteries.
This story depicts how Anna Katherine Green’s first novel may have come to be. When her father’s client is found murdered, Anna joins in the investigations to help prove the innocence of the young girl accused of the murder. While the investigation is ongoing, Anna begins writing her own mystery.
At this point, it’s safe to say that Patricia Meredith has quickly become one of my favourite authors. With each novel I’ve read by her, I found myself in binge-worthy reads evoking a variety of experiences from shock, heart break and delight, all while trying to solve the mystery alongside the characters. Her ability to craft loveable characters, intriguing mysteries and cover topics of mental health and disabilities with sensitivity while remaining historically accurate are impressive.
A Deed of Dreadful Note captured much of this. I quickly came to care for the character’s and found myself rooting for Anna as she tried to solve a murder and find herself as an author. Patricia Meredith also leaves multiple trails of breadcrumbs throughout the story for readers to follow, while sowing doubt. This allowed me a chance to try and solve the mystery alongside Anna making me that much more invested.
Part of what made this so compelling is seeing it all through Anna’s perspective. She is an observant and strong character, continually facing every obstacle with determination. Even while pushing the social expectations of the period, she remains believable.
In fact, the same can be said for the side cast, as they receive similar care in their development, roles, and relationships. Making it easy to connect with the characters while still questioning everything to solve the murder. Now, the banter between characters was spot on and had me keeping score, while naturally building their relationships.
As this is a fictionalized tale of the real author Anna Katherine Green, and the journey that might have been while writing her first novel. The attention to detail in the historical aspects, not just the time period but also accounts from the authors life, are impressive. It truly is a project of passion with how much thought has gone into creating this story and Anna’s character based off the real author.
In terms of pacing, it shifted between medium to a whirlwind of an ending. Including plenty of suspense, suspicion, emotional moments, and twists along the way.
I did immersion read this with the ebook and audiobook. Patricia Meredith narrates the story herself and she did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life.
A Deed of Dreadful Note is yet another book by Patricia Meredith I can’t recommend enough.
May 17, 2023
Excellent historical mystery, based on the real-life author who inspired Arthur Conan Doyle and Agatha Christie. Full of twists and turns, I didn't see coming. Incredibly sweet romance. Beautiful family dynamics and faith included!
June 4, 2023
Patricia is my favorite period mystery author! I devour her books and can’t wait for more
June 20, 2023
Not only is this a rousingly good mystery in its own right, but this book has made me aware of a classic mystery author I can't wait to try: Anna Katharine Green. I've done a bit of looking into her and her books, thanks to this one, and I expect to try her mysteries soon!
Not gonna lie: Sokol was my favorite character in this. He's abundantly intelligent, socially awkward, afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis, and possessed of unsuspected kindness and charm. I fell for him quite quickly. The fact that Meredith created him as someone that Green could have used as inspiration for her first detective really has me wanting to try The Leavenworth Case!
But that's not to say that Anna herself wasn't an awesome character. I liked her a lot, and I am glad to see this is the first in a planned series because I would love to spend more time in her company.
Meredith has an easy, conversational style, and reading this book was a delight.
Not gonna lie: Sokol was my favorite character in this. He's abundantly intelligent, socially awkward, afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis, and possessed of unsuspected kindness and charm. I fell for him quite quickly. The fact that Meredith created him as someone that Green could have used as inspiration for her first detective really has me wanting to try The Leavenworth Case!
But that's not to say that Anna herself wasn't an awesome character. I liked her a lot, and I am glad to see this is the first in a planned series because I would love to spend more time in her company.
Meredith has an easy, conversational style, and reading this book was a delight.
May 15, 2023
**I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.**
I’ve always been a big fan of mysteries and grew up reading all the typical detective stories (Encyclopedia Brown, Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, etc.) and in college was introduced to Agatha Christie my last semester of my senior year and devoured as many as I could between classes. After arriving in my new hometown as a newlywed I read all the Hercule Poirot books my library had.
Suffice it to say…I like mysteries, but I like *good* mysteries. I also love historical fiction that is done well. This book has both and what a treat it was!
The book is a mystery within a mystery as it follows real-life author Anna Katherine Green, the mother of modern mysteries, as she helps her lawyer-father with one of his clients and begins to write her own first mystery novel which changes the genre.
What I liked:
-the plot begins quickly and instantly offers well-rounded, fleshed out characters
-the exposition adds to the story and carries the plot forward without sounding like a research paper trying to reach a quota
-Anna comes across as relatable and as a forward thinking woman of her time, while still being *of* her time (it’s always frustrating when authors try to turn 19th-century women into 21st century feminists)
-all the pieces of good mystery novel are there…misdirects, frustration, secrets, multiple suspects, slow reveals, etc.
-the attention to historical detail and the addition of real-life characters in a way that was natural and didn’t make them stand out oddly compared to the created characters (side note on the historical detail: I’m also currently reading “18 Tiny Deaths” and it goes over the history of coroners and inquests in the United States, so it was interesting to already have that context going into this book).
Overall, a delightful read for all mystery and historical fiction fans. I ended the book both wanting to read Anna Katharine Green’s first novel and wishing for a whole series about her as she continues writing and solving crime.
I’ve always been a big fan of mysteries and grew up reading all the typical detective stories (Encyclopedia Brown, Bobbsey Twins, Nancy Drew, Hardy Boys, etc.) and in college was introduced to Agatha Christie my last semester of my senior year and devoured as many as I could between classes. After arriving in my new hometown as a newlywed I read all the Hercule Poirot books my library had.
Suffice it to say…I like mysteries, but I like *good* mysteries. I also love historical fiction that is done well. This book has both and what a treat it was!
The book is a mystery within a mystery as it follows real-life author Anna Katherine Green, the mother of modern mysteries, as she helps her lawyer-father with one of his clients and begins to write her own first mystery novel which changes the genre.
What I liked:
-the plot begins quickly and instantly offers well-rounded, fleshed out characters
-the exposition adds to the story and carries the plot forward without sounding like a research paper trying to reach a quota
-Anna comes across as relatable and as a forward thinking woman of her time, while still being *of* her time (it’s always frustrating when authors try to turn 19th-century women into 21st century feminists)
-all the pieces of good mystery novel are there…misdirects, frustration, secrets, multiple suspects, slow reveals, etc.
-the attention to historical detail and the addition of real-life characters in a way that was natural and didn’t make them stand out oddly compared to the created characters (side note on the historical detail: I’m also currently reading “18 Tiny Deaths” and it goes over the history of coroners and inquests in the United States, so it was interesting to already have that context going into this book).
Overall, a delightful read for all mystery and historical fiction fans. I ended the book both wanting to read Anna Katharine Green’s first novel and wishing for a whole series about her as she continues writing and solving crime.
September 13, 2023
Have you heard of Anna Katharine Green? If you are like me and the answer is no, or even if the answer is yes, you need to check this book out. Anna Katharine Green is known as “the mother of the detective novel” and inspired Agatha Christie, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and others with their mysteries. Upon reading the description of this book, I was immediately interested.
This is a murder mystery novel about the death of Mr. Jackson. It is also a fictionalized account of how Anna Katharine Green could have wrote her first murder mystery novel. Anna is investigating the murder of Mr Jackson with her father and retired policeman Sokol. Anna’s father is a lawyer representing Lenore, Mr Jackson’s niece. Lenore has been arrested for killing her Uncle. Anna also helps console Lenore. While investigating this case, Anna decides to try her hand at writing a Murder Mystery. She uses the real case of Mr Jackson to write her novel “The Leavenworth Case”
A Deed of Dreadful Note, is a wonderful mystery! It is written very well and holds your attention beautifully. I loved learning about Anna Katharine Green and I loved how the author used a lot of Anna’s real life and quotes were included in the book. The mystery was well done and there were a couple surprises that I didn’t see coming. There is also a little romance thrown in. I also enjoyed how Anna was using the case to write her own mystery and I am definitely going to read “The Leavenworth Case” soon. And I also will be reading more books by Patricia as well! This is an amazing book and I highly recommend it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: one “h” word, and of course death/murder situations
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This is a murder mystery novel about the death of Mr. Jackson. It is also a fictionalized account of how Anna Katharine Green could have wrote her first murder mystery novel. Anna is investigating the murder of Mr Jackson with her father and retired policeman Sokol. Anna’s father is a lawyer representing Lenore, Mr Jackson’s niece. Lenore has been arrested for killing her Uncle. Anna also helps console Lenore. While investigating this case, Anna decides to try her hand at writing a Murder Mystery. She uses the real case of Mr Jackson to write her novel “The Leavenworth Case”
A Deed of Dreadful Note, is a wonderful mystery! It is written very well and holds your attention beautifully. I loved learning about Anna Katharine Green and I loved how the author used a lot of Anna’s real life and quotes were included in the book. The mystery was well done and there were a couple surprises that I didn’t see coming. There is also a little romance thrown in. I also enjoyed how Anna was using the case to write her own mystery and I am definitely going to read “The Leavenworth Case” soon. And I also will be reading more books by Patricia as well! This is an amazing book and I highly recommend it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: one “h” word, and of course death/murder situations
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
July 4, 2023
Riveting and Delightful
With just enough suspense that kept me reading on! With a WTF twist at the end!
Great enriching characters, a time piece story told through the eyes of the main antagonist!
Can’t wait to read more from this author!!
March 28, 2024
This was interesting. I had never heard for Anna Katherine Green or her place as the first female mystery writer when I came across a mention in a book newsletter.
This fictional story about how her first book might have come to be was entertaining and I did enjoy it, although there were some aspects that didn't really work for me.
First, the romance just wasn't believable for me. I am just not a big fan of love at first sight so this didn't play for me. Fine for others just not for me.
I also struggled with Anna being portrayed as more unsure of her capabilities as a writer and as a detective than there was any reason for her to be.
I did enjoy this overall, and it has made me curious to read the actual book Green wrote "The Leavenworth Case" which fortunately my library has.
This fictional story about how her first book might have come to be was entertaining and I did enjoy it, although there were some aspects that didn't really work for me.
First, the romance just wasn't believable for me. I am just not a big fan of love at first sight so this didn't play for me. Fine for others just not for me.
I also struggled with Anna being portrayed as more unsure of her capabilities as a writer and as a detective than there was any reason for her to be.
I did enjoy this overall, and it has made me curious to read the actual book Green wrote "The Leavenworth Case" which fortunately my library has.
July 23, 2023
4.5 / 5.0 Stars
What a deliciously suspenseful historical mystery this book was, such that I enjoyed every moment of it. Author Patricia Meredith deftly composed the initial story to a new and wonderful series which features author Anna Katherine Green, (aka, "The Mother of Detective Fiction"), as its heroine and protagonist. Ms. Meredith has crafted a rather believable background story for Ms. Green's writing of her first mystery, "The Leavenworth Case", as it might have evolved on Ms. Green's writing desk. The story is wrought with the many mystery story devices which Ms. Green utilized within her own writing. The inclusion of quotes from Ms. Green's writings and about her added to the charm and warmth of this story. This book was tremendously engaging and the prose exquisite. I eagerly await future installments in this series. Meanwhile, I'll be hunting down a copy of, "The Leavenworth Case" - no doubt, a mystery, like this book, not to be overlooked.
I am grateful to author Patricia Meredith for having provided a complimentary e-book through Goodreads First Reads. Her generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
What a deliciously suspenseful historical mystery this book was, such that I enjoyed every moment of it. Author Patricia Meredith deftly composed the initial story to a new and wonderful series which features author Anna Katherine Green, (aka, "The Mother of Detective Fiction"), as its heroine and protagonist. Ms. Meredith has crafted a rather believable background story for Ms. Green's writing of her first mystery, "The Leavenworth Case", as it might have evolved on Ms. Green's writing desk. The story is wrought with the many mystery story devices which Ms. Green utilized within her own writing. The inclusion of quotes from Ms. Green's writings and about her added to the charm and warmth of this story. This book was tremendously engaging and the prose exquisite. I eagerly await future installments in this series. Meanwhile, I'll be hunting down a copy of, "The Leavenworth Case" - no doubt, a mystery, like this book, not to be overlooked.
I am grateful to author Patricia Meredith for having provided a complimentary e-book through Goodreads First Reads. Her generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
May 26, 2023
I was excited to be an advanced reader for A Deed of Dreadful Note and that excitement stuck as I read the story. I am a bit of a sucker for a fun mystery and this one was definitely fun. Not only that but it introduced me to an author I hadn't heard of before: Anna Katharine Green. I will definitely be reading some of her books.
This super fun mystery is scheduled for release on May 30th and I highly recommend it. I know I'll be reading more from Patricia too.
This super fun mystery is scheduled for release on May 30th and I highly recommend it. I know I'll be reading more from Patricia too.
March 2, 2024
I enjoyed this love letter to Anna Katharine Green, who inspired Agatha Christie and others in my favorite genre. The story was really surprising. I was stumped all the way to the end. 4/5 stars.
November 17, 2023
I received a copy of this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.
Before Agathe Christie, there was Anna Katherine Green. I was unaware of her contributions to the genre of mystery books until I read "A Deed of Dreadful Note". While this book is loosely based on her exploits, it brought her to life for me. Now I want to learn more about this remarkable person.
A book that kept me interested and entertained throughout.
Before Agathe Christie, there was Anna Katherine Green. I was unaware of her contributions to the genre of mystery books until I read "A Deed of Dreadful Note". While this book is loosely based on her exploits, it brought her to life for me. Now I want to learn more about this remarkable person.
A book that kept me interested and entertained throughout.
Want to read
July 15, 2023Woke up to find out I won this book from Patricia Meredith! Very excited to read this book as it’s now on TBR 2024.
September 21, 2023
I am embarrassed to admit that this book remained on my TBR list far longer than it should have, merely because it is a historic mystery, which I typically read only when I am tired of fantasy and Regency novels. This book was excellent and well worth the wait, and definitely deserves the rare full 5-star rating from me.
Why was this book exceptional?
The characters. Well-rounded, believable characters are always my favorite part of reading. I love meeting new friends, and when cranky, clever Sokol walked on the page, I instantly fell in love. It was easy to become friends with kind and spirited Anna, too, who always made time for her friends and family and tried to think the best of everyone.
Also, the clever plot. This book tells the story of Anna Katherine Green, the author of an early American detective novel that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie, and others. The author imagined what may have happened to inspire Miss Green to write The Leavenworth Case, and this book is the result. The plot follows Anna both as she assists her lawyer father in gathering facts for a local murder investigation, and as she begins writing her novel. I loved that the plot did not focus solely around the murder investigation, but neither did it stray far away into unrelated subjects.
One very minor quibble is that the author did her research on Anna Katherine Green, and it definitely showed. There was slightly more on Miss Green's writing than I would have preferred - both ponderings on her writing and quotations - but this was minor, only in the beginning of the book, and definitely only my personal preference. Others (such as writers! or lovers of poetry) probably will greatly enjoy the space dedicated to these topics.
Overall, a clever historic mystery with lovable characters. Highly recommended to anyone who likes books with good characters, whether or not you typically read historic fiction or mysteries.
A note about the audiobook: The audiobook was read by the author and was very well done. I would rate it above average for an amateur narrated audiobook, although not quite as good as a professionally narrated audiobook. I found myself quite willing to set it aside when I had time to sit down and pick up the print book... although rather than reflecting on audio quality, it is equally likely that was because I was so interested in the story, I wanted to read it so I could find out more quickly what happened. Definitely an easy to listen to audiobook.
Why was this book exceptional?
The characters. Well-rounded, believable characters are always my favorite part of reading. I love meeting new friends, and when cranky, clever Sokol walked on the page, I instantly fell in love. It was easy to become friends with kind and spirited Anna, too, who always made time for her friends and family and tried to think the best of everyone.
Also, the clever plot. This book tells the story of Anna Katherine Green, the author of an early American detective novel that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie, and others. The author imagined what may have happened to inspire Miss Green to write The Leavenworth Case, and this book is the result. The plot follows Anna both as she assists her lawyer father in gathering facts for a local murder investigation, and as she begins writing her novel. I loved that the plot did not focus solely around the murder investigation, but neither did it stray far away into unrelated subjects.
One very minor quibble is that the author did her research on Anna Katherine Green, and it definitely showed. There was slightly more on Miss Green's writing than I would have preferred - both ponderings on her writing and quotations - but this was minor, only in the beginning of the book, and definitely only my personal preference. Others (such as writers! or lovers of poetry) probably will greatly enjoy the space dedicated to these topics.
Overall, a clever historic mystery with lovable characters. Highly recommended to anyone who likes books with good characters, whether or not you typically read historic fiction or mysteries.
A note about the audiobook: The audiobook was read by the author and was very well done. I would rate it above average for an amateur narrated audiobook, although not quite as good as a professionally narrated audiobook. I found myself quite willing to set it aside when I had time to sit down and pick up the print book... although rather than reflecting on audio quality, it is equally likely that was because I was so interested in the story, I wanted to read it so I could find out more quickly what happened. Definitely an easy to listen to audiobook.
January 18, 2025
Goodness gracious this review is VERY long overdo!
Patricia does it again with an incredible mystery novel!
I am so thankful I got to meet her and have coffee with her and though I’m sad she and her family moved and I couldn’t visit more often, God has blessed her writing tremendously since their move! She continues to publish novels at fast pace and each one is amazing!
Thanks to her, I’m learning about intriguing historical figures and places and the way murderers …you’d never guess in the million years who they are!
Review 5/5
“Beneath those silent lips lay the truth of why murder was the most interesting theme for a mystery story.” - P.M. - A Deed of Dreadful Note
This mystery novel is based on the very first female mystery author - Anna Katherine Green - and her very first novel, The Leavenworth Case.
To write a novel on a historical figure is quite the feat in of itself but to also write about happenings that made that figure important….well, it takes a true author to bring to life such events and personage.
I can’t say much about the book without giving away spoilers but I am now even more interested in reading about A.K.Green and I am going to find myself a copy of The Leavenworth Case and become more acquainted with the characters that came to life in A Deed of Dreadful Note.
I recommend Patricia’s work constantly but THIS book, I can’t recommend enough!!!!
Patricia does it again with an incredible mystery novel!
I am so thankful I got to meet her and have coffee with her and though I’m sad she and her family moved and I couldn’t visit more often, God has blessed her writing tremendously since their move! She continues to publish novels at fast pace and each one is amazing!
Thanks to her, I’m learning about intriguing historical figures and places and the way murderers …you’d never guess in the million years who they are!
Review 5/5
“Beneath those silent lips lay the truth of why murder was the most interesting theme for a mystery story.” - P.M. - A Deed of Dreadful Note
This mystery novel is based on the very first female mystery author - Anna Katherine Green - and her very first novel, The Leavenworth Case.
To write a novel on a historical figure is quite the feat in of itself but to also write about happenings that made that figure important….well, it takes a true author to bring to life such events and personage.
I can’t say much about the book without giving away spoilers but I am now even more interested in reading about A.K.Green and I am going to find myself a copy of The Leavenworth Case and become more acquainted with the characters that came to life in A Deed of Dreadful Note.
I recommend Patricia’s work constantly but THIS book, I can’t recommend enough!!!!
August 6, 2023
I'm a sucker for a good mystery series. I grew up with Nancy Drew and took to reading Agatha Christie after college. And now I am hunting down any mystery written by Meredith.
Well waiting for the next books release in her Spokane Clock Tower mystery series. I picked up "A Deed of Dreadful Note" and I'm so glad I did. I'm not exaggerating when I say I gasped out loud several times while reading and even cried on a plane during the final chapters.
I was so bad in from the beginning, as it opens so well, diving you straight into the story and into the characters. I picked a favorite immediately, and won't say more so not to spoil anything, but Meredith certainly has a way with creating people on the page that you care deeply about.
Now I'm not only waiting for the continuation of her first series but now her second!
Well waiting for the next books release in her Spokane Clock Tower mystery series. I picked up "A Deed of Dreadful Note" and I'm so glad I did. I'm not exaggerating when I say I gasped out loud several times while reading and even cried on a plane during the final chapters.
I was so bad in from the beginning, as it opens so well, diving you straight into the story and into the characters. I picked a favorite immediately, and won't say more so not to spoil anything, but Meredith certainly has a way with creating people on the page that you care deeply about.
Now I'm not only waiting for the continuation of her first series but now her second!
March 23, 2024
3 stars for the clever idea of writing a story around the story of Anna Katharine Green's writing of "The Leavenworth Case". Still, one should definitely read that book first, for best understanding of this one. In general I don't care much for fictional biographies, as it is hard to distinguish what is real from the fictional. In this case, the Forward & Afterward were interesting and helpful! I appreciate all the research that went into this account, and the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. Also fun to hear "The Moonstone","Little Women" and others referenced. I do think it must be quite hard for authors to narrate their own books. There seemed to be issues w/ low audio volume in this one.
Read
November 3, 2023Dear Readers: Thank you so much for reading my book and taking the time to leave a review! Be sure to let others know how much you enjoyed the book and why!
I hope your next step will be to pick up a copy of The Leavenworth Case, the inspiration behind this book. It is available in ebook format with my introduction for FREE through my website by signing up for my newsletter at Patricia-Meredith.com. You can find the audiobook read by Andrew D Meredith in your favorite format wherever audiobooks are sold!
Learn more about Anna Katharine Green at my website and on my YouTube channel @pmeredithauthor.
I hope your next step will be to pick up a copy of The Leavenworth Case, the inspiration behind this book. It is available in ebook format with my introduction for FREE through my website by signing up for my newsletter at Patricia-Meredith.com. You can find the audiobook read by Andrew D Meredith in your favorite format wherever audiobooks are sold!
Learn more about Anna Katharine Green at my website and on my YouTube channel @pmeredithauthor.
August 27, 2023
WOW. This book has it all - luscious period details, punchy dialogue, a great female sleuth, and an intense ending. Not only was I entirely fooled by the mystery, but I was in tears during certain parts because I was so emotionally invested in the characters. I highly recommend Patricia Meredith's writing! I love this book and her Spokane Clock Tower Mystery Series. I can't wait for more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review, but all opinions are mine.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review, but all opinions are mine.
September 26, 2023
3.5 What I liked: the homage to Ms. Green and the effort to teach the reader about the "Mother of the Detective Novel; the case was interesting enough; the historical setting seemed accurate
What I didn't like so well: the repetitive nature of the prose; the discussions about the case which sometimes seemed not so intelligent
I am more interested in reading The Leavenworth Case by Ms. Green now that in reading another of Ms. Meredith's books.
What I didn't like so well: the repetitive nature of the prose; the discussions about the case which sometimes seemed not so intelligent
I am more interested in reading The Leavenworth Case by Ms. Green now that in reading another of Ms. Meredith's books.
June 5, 2023
Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres, I particularly enjoy learning about lesser known events or people. This is a fascinating fictional story of Anna Katherine Green, who is known as the mother of detective fiction and someone Id never come across before, despite being a lover of crime/ mystery fiction.
I loved learning about Anna as she went against the norms of the day in both her detective work and then writing in a time where women weren’t taken seriously as writers. Her interactions with her family and other side characters in particular her father and Mr Sokol really made the story.
I enjoyed the mystery part of the novel, full of twists and turns and it kept me guessing the whole way through. That and reading about Anna’s writing process for her own novel and learning how she invented a lot of the common plot devices made it all the more special.
Having read Meredith’s Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, I knew I’d be in for a treat with her research on Anna. I really appreciated the quotes from Anna’s book and those who knew her in the epigraphs, it tied everything together nicely. Patricia’s authors notes at the are always so fascinating as she reveals her inspiration, sources and adds in some more facts. I’m definitely inspired to read Leavenworth Case now. A fabulous historical fiction mystery and best of all, it’s the first in a series- can’t wait to see what Anna gets up to next.
Thanks to the author for proving me an eARC.
I loved learning about Anna as she went against the norms of the day in both her detective work and then writing in a time where women weren’t taken seriously as writers. Her interactions with her family and other side characters in particular her father and Mr Sokol really made the story.
I enjoyed the mystery part of the novel, full of twists and turns and it kept me guessing the whole way through. That and reading about Anna’s writing process for her own novel and learning how she invented a lot of the common plot devices made it all the more special.
Having read Meredith’s Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, I knew I’d be in for a treat with her research on Anna. I really appreciated the quotes from Anna’s book and those who knew her in the epigraphs, it tied everything together nicely. Patricia’s authors notes at the are always so fascinating as she reveals her inspiration, sources and adds in some more facts. I’m definitely inspired to read Leavenworth Case now. A fabulous historical fiction mystery and best of all, it’s the first in a series- can’t wait to see what Anna gets up to next.
Thanks to the author for proving me an eARC.
July 29, 2023
Written by a dear friend- loved this book! Not a mystery reader but this was very well written and I enjoyed!
October 14, 2023
I LOVED The Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries.
I’m not a super fan of mysteries but I love the way this author tells a story.
The best part of this story is that the author is writing a story about a real life author, Anna Katherine Green, writing a mystery while she is involved in a mystery.
What a fun premise. I read this strait through & might reread when I get book two. I was sad to say goodbye to Spokane Clocktower but we have fresh new characters to get to know and love. I’m a character driven reader and this hit the spot.
The right mixture of historical truth and wonderfully written cozy fiction.
I can’t wait for book 2!
I’m not a super fan of mysteries but I love the way this author tells a story.
The best part of this story is that the author is writing a story about a real life author, Anna Katherine Green, writing a mystery while she is involved in a mystery.
What a fun premise. I read this strait through & might reread when I get book two. I was sad to say goodbye to Spokane Clocktower but we have fresh new characters to get to know and love. I’m a character driven reader and this hit the spot.
The right mixture of historical truth and wonderfully written cozy fiction.
I can’t wait for book 2!
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