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Doro Banyon Historical Mystery #1
The Catalogued Corpse
College librarian Doro Banyon discovers the body of her nemesis, Professor Hemet Corlon, near the card catalogues when she arrives for work. Evidence points to a terrible accident, but the new school security officer disagrees. Because Doro and Corlon have been at odds over the status of women at the formerly all-male school, she falls under suspicion—and she isn’t alone. Most professors and students supported women’s suffrage and welcomed coeducation, so they stand steadfast against the old-fashioned ideas of Corlon and his handful of powerful cronies. More than one person wanted to see an end to the professor and his ilk. But who made his departure permanent? In seeking answers, Doro joins forces with her best friend to solve the mystery of the catalogued corpse.
497 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2023
120 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
D.S. Lang
27 books108 followersIf you like historical mysteries and intrepid female sleuths in a small town America setting, try my books! My heroines are dedicated to bringing the bad guys and gals to justice, and they have a team of colorful characters who support them in their efforts.
My Arabella Stewart series takes place soon after the Great War. Bella, who served an Army Signal Corps operator, returns to find her hometown and family resort in dire straits. Almost immediately, she is thrust into a murder investigation. Constable Jax Hastings reluctantly accepts her help.
The pair, who were childhood friends, partner in a series of investigations, while also working past barriers put in place during the war.
My Doro Banyon series is also set in an American small town in 1920s, but on a college campus. Doro is a librarian who, along with her best friends, finds herself immersed in a series of mysteries. It has a cozier feel than the Bella series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 22, 2024
E-book freebie at the time of download. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not affected by the giveaway.
1920s Ohio
Dorothy Banyon has lived at or near the college campus all her life. She's proud to be on the faculty as a librarian and professor of literature teaching the mystery novel but lately her job hasn't been as easy. A new president has come to the school with his cronies and have instituted budget cuts and are determined to make the school an elite institution of higher learning. This means no women (including faculty), no sports, no townies, no scholarships for farmers or other "riff raff" who should stay in their place. Obviously Doro can't stand these changes and has numerous clashes with Professor Hemet Corlon but that doesn't mean she wants him dead. When Doro discovers Professor Corlon's body in the library, she assumes he hit his head on the card catalog accidentally. Being an avid reader of mysteries, Doro then starts to think perhaps Professor Corlon was murdered! A new security officer arrives on campus to solve the crime and doesn't want to work with the local constable. Not only that, Doro seems to be a suspect! Doro and her best friend Aggie take it upon themselves to find out who the real killer is.
I really enjoyed this story. It's different and a nice change from the usual society ladies. Plus how could I resist reading a story about a librarian? The small town and college campus setting was vivid and realistic. I did figure out whodunit based on the whereabouts of everyone and their alibis. I wasn't sure until the motive was revealed. The ending was a little rushed though and then the last chapter wrapped up the cozy subplot in a random way. There's not much cozy in this story. It's woven into the story in the details of life on campus and in Michaw and in the motive. A few specific details about the time period are dropped in like Prohibition and women having the right to vote and the new method of fingerprinting but otherwise the story could almost be set now. The story is ripped from today's headlines. I kept thinking about a certain college in Florida that has gone from a progressive institution where all kinds of people were welcome to something entirely different where certain books end up in dumpsters. (I know Doro would be furious!) The only thing I questioned was President Winwood's lack of interest in sports. What the heck? Everyone knows Harvard, Yale and Brown thrive on their football rivalries. Is President Winwood over 70 because those football teams date back to the last third of the 19th-century roughly 50 years earlier. I would think that he would want to model his elite institute of higher learning on the Ivies. If he's over 70 he has no cause to suggest certain people retire when they're younger than him.
I really like Doro. She's a great heroine and highly intelligent. I just love that she's a professional librarian with a degree that her boss doesn't have! Doro doesn't do anything dumb in her investigation and she learns and grows during the investigation. She's very kind and family oriented. Doro has stayed behind to be near her grandmother (who is quite elderly - in her 70s!) when her parents have moved to Colorado. She misses chatting with her mom every day and misses her professor dad but they write frequently. Her mom was ill and the dry air in Colorado suits mother so Doro's parents won't be back to Ohio but Doro can visit them. Doro has a big heart. I'm assuming she'll fall in love with her new friend. She seems to be heading there.
I'm super surprised no one has killed President Winwood. He's an egomaniac and a snob who hates anyone not like him. He knows he can't be overtly sexist but he's doing everything he can to force the women out including insinuating Doro or one her friends was the murderer. He belittles scholarship students and acts like he's living in feudal Europe or pre-WWII England where everyone knew their place and didn't step out of it. President Winwood thinks he's the lord of the manor and everyone must dance to his tune. Only three others do. They all came to the school together and are hoping to influence the board of trustees to see things their way.
Professor Hemet Corlon was one of President Winwood's cronies. He despised women and went out of his way to be rude to Doro. Yet, there are always two sides to every story and maybe he didn't deserve to be murdered. Maybe he was growing and learning to accept the 20th century social norms are here to stay. Women do have the vote now after all! Provost Pottinger, another crony of President Winwood, is even more nasty. He smells like Limburger cheese, onions and makes people want to gag when he gets up close and threatening. He seems like the stooge of the group. Professor Jerritt, the final of the Fearsome Foursome, is away for the week and not involved in the mystery.
On the other side of the coin is Stanley Gibling. He supports women in higher ed but dumped Doro's best friend Aggie when Aggie thought they were getting serious. Stanley has a temper and has been known to engage in threatening behavior. He had a strong motive but did he get violent? That seems at odds with his demeanor as a sympathetic professor trying to help his students. The basketball coach, Coach Ayers, seems more like the violent type. He's had it with his star players being cut from the team due to failing grades. Those grades were on essays, graded arbitrarily and not tests which the students perform just fine on. The coach is furious and when questioned, he gets belligerent. His wife is his only alibi. Would she lie for him?
The Young Women Voters student group meets in the library. Professor Corlon disliked them and their aims. The student leader of the group, Kitty Tenseng, has gone missing and can't be traced. Could she be the murderer? Not only did Professor Corlon dislike the YWV, he deliberately failed Kitty's beau, Pierce, because the young man is an athlete attending university on scholarship. Professor Corlon belittled Pierce, claiming Pierce should stay on the farm where he belongs instead of trying to become a lawyer. Both students have strong motives and are missing. Are they together? Where are they? What are they hiding? I think they eloped and that's where they went. I don't know why they'd do it now with no money and Pierce may be forced to drop out of college but maybe she's um in the family way? Something happened and it's up to Doro to find out.
Everett Mallow is young for a campus security officer and seems uptight at first. Like Doro, I made assumptions about him based on who hired him and how he acted at first. Then it becomes clear that Doro's first impression was not correct. Mallow was only doing his job, for which he apologizes and explains! A man? yeah right... He has an older sister he adores who is like a mother to him and she's influenced his way of thinking. His sister is important to him and he tries to make her happy and proud with his conduct which is why he left the police force and is leaving his job as a Prohibition officer. His current occupation is dangerous and his sister worries. Mallow is on his own for the first time and trying to figure out how to prove himself to the older men who look down on him because of his lack of education and experience. A man who adores his sister can't be so bad. He's kind to animals too. I like the growing relationship between Doro and Mallow. They work well together. She brings out his more playful side sometimes and he makes sure she understands this investigation is dangerous and when he offers to escort her home it's not because he doesn't think she can't take care of herself but because he's concerned because the killer is someone known to her on campus and could be hiding in plain sight.
The minor secondary characters are so well developed they feel real. Doro's best friend Aggie is sweet and kind. She's a good listener and sharp enough to understand the significance of what people innocently tell her or don't tell her. She's a poet with her feet on the ground when needs be.
Wade Lammers, the local constable, is older but not as old as Doro's dad. He's kindly and knows how to treat the locals if he wants their cooperation with an investigation. Wade also is not so arrogant that he can't accept working as a subordinate for a younger man. He's willing to help with the investigation in any capacity. He's a wonderful father, a single dad to some energetic young children, one of whom gets into a schoolyard accident typical of hyperactive boys. Wade is also a doting son and when his mother is in the hospital, he drops everything to be with her even though they haven't solved the mystery. Too bad President Winwood is such a snob he can't see all of Wade's amazing qualities. He only sees townie and turns up his super snobby nose.
Mrs. Jones, is a lovely woman, a motherly sort but also one who needs to keep active and use her brain. Mrs. Islington is very nice. She is eager to fatten up Mallow. She'll only spill the tea to Doro and Aggie, women she knows well and not the police until she sees Doro trusts Mallow and he's so young and thin, she needs to fatten him up. She reminds me of my Nonnie who always fed her family and anyone else who stopped by with massive quantities of food.
So who killed Professor Corlon? Was it one of the students or faculty members?
I see Hoopla has this series. I can't wait to read the rest.
1920s Ohio
Dorothy Banyon has lived at or near the college campus all her life. She's proud to be on the faculty as a librarian and professor of literature teaching the mystery novel but lately her job hasn't been as easy. A new president has come to the school with his cronies and have instituted budget cuts and are determined to make the school an elite institution of higher learning. This means no women (including faculty), no sports, no townies, no scholarships for farmers or other "riff raff" who should stay in their place. Obviously Doro can't stand these changes and has numerous clashes with Professor Hemet Corlon but that doesn't mean she wants him dead. When Doro discovers Professor Corlon's body in the library, she assumes he hit his head on the card catalog accidentally. Being an avid reader of mysteries, Doro then starts to think perhaps Professor Corlon was murdered! A new security officer arrives on campus to solve the crime and doesn't want to work with the local constable. Not only that, Doro seems to be a suspect! Doro and her best friend Aggie take it upon themselves to find out who the real killer is.
I really enjoyed this story. It's different and a nice change from the usual society ladies. Plus how could I resist reading a story about a librarian? The small town and college campus setting was vivid and realistic. I did figure out whodunit based on the whereabouts of everyone and their alibis. I wasn't sure until the motive was revealed. The ending was a little rushed though and then the last chapter wrapped up the cozy subplot in a random way. There's not much cozy in this story. It's woven into the story in the details of life on campus and in Michaw and in the motive. A few specific details about the time period are dropped in like Prohibition and women having the right to vote and the new method of fingerprinting but otherwise the story could almost be set now. The story is ripped from today's headlines. I kept thinking about a certain college in Florida that has gone from a progressive institution where all kinds of people were welcome to something entirely different where certain books end up in dumpsters. (I know Doro would be furious!) The only thing I questioned was President Winwood's lack of interest in sports. What the heck? Everyone knows Harvard, Yale and Brown thrive on their football rivalries. Is President Winwood over 70 because those football teams date back to the last third of the 19th-century roughly 50 years earlier. I would think that he would want to model his elite institute of higher learning on the Ivies. If he's over 70 he has no cause to suggest certain people retire when they're younger than him.
I really like Doro. She's a great heroine and highly intelligent. I just love that she's a professional librarian with a degree that her boss doesn't have! Doro doesn't do anything dumb in her investigation and she learns and grows during the investigation. She's very kind and family oriented. Doro has stayed behind to be near her grandmother (who is quite elderly - in her 70s!) when her parents have moved to Colorado. She misses chatting with her mom every day and misses her professor dad but they write frequently. Her mom was ill and the dry air in Colorado suits mother so Doro's parents won't be back to Ohio but Doro can visit them. Doro has a big heart. I'm assuming she'll fall in love with her new friend. She seems to be heading there.
I'm super surprised no one has killed President Winwood. He's an egomaniac and a snob who hates anyone not like him. He knows he can't be overtly sexist but he's doing everything he can to force the women out including insinuating Doro or one her friends was the murderer. He belittles scholarship students and acts like he's living in feudal Europe or pre-WWII England where everyone knew their place and didn't step out of it. President Winwood thinks he's the lord of the manor and everyone must dance to his tune. Only three others do. They all came to the school together and are hoping to influence the board of trustees to see things their way.
Professor Hemet Corlon was one of President Winwood's cronies. He despised women and went out of his way to be rude to Doro. Yet, there are always two sides to every story and maybe he didn't deserve to be murdered. Maybe he was growing and learning to accept the 20th century social norms are here to stay. Women do have the vote now after all! Provost Pottinger, another crony of President Winwood, is even more nasty. He smells like Limburger cheese, onions and makes people want to gag when he gets up close and threatening. He seems like the stooge of the group. Professor Jerritt, the final of the Fearsome Foursome, is away for the week and not involved in the mystery.
On the other side of the coin is Stanley Gibling. He supports women in higher ed but dumped Doro's best friend Aggie when Aggie thought they were getting serious. Stanley has a temper and has been known to engage in threatening behavior. He had a strong motive but did he get violent? That seems at odds with his demeanor as a sympathetic professor trying to help his students. The basketball coach, Coach Ayers, seems more like the violent type. He's had it with his star players being cut from the team due to failing grades. Those grades were on essays, graded arbitrarily and not tests which the students perform just fine on. The coach is furious and when questioned, he gets belligerent. His wife is his only alibi. Would she lie for him?
The Young Women Voters student group meets in the library. Professor Corlon disliked them and their aims. The student leader of the group, Kitty Tenseng, has gone missing and can't be traced. Could she be the murderer? Not only did Professor Corlon dislike the YWV, he deliberately failed Kitty's beau, Pierce, because the young man is an athlete attending university on scholarship. Professor Corlon belittled Pierce, claiming Pierce should stay on the farm where he belongs instead of trying to become a lawyer. Both students have strong motives and are missing. Are they together? Where are they? What are they hiding? I think they eloped and that's where they went. I don't know why they'd do it now with no money and Pierce may be forced to drop out of college but maybe she's um in the family way? Something happened and it's up to Doro to find out.
Everett Mallow is young for a campus security officer and seems uptight at first. Like Doro, I made assumptions about him based on who hired him and how he acted at first. Then it becomes clear that Doro's first impression was not correct. Mallow was only doing his job, for which he apologizes and explains! A man? yeah right... He has an older sister he adores who is like a mother to him and she's influenced his way of thinking. His sister is important to him and he tries to make her happy and proud with his conduct which is why he left the police force and is leaving his job as a Prohibition officer. His current occupation is dangerous and his sister worries. Mallow is on his own for the first time and trying to figure out how to prove himself to the older men who look down on him because of his lack of education and experience. A man who adores his sister can't be so bad. He's kind to animals too. I like the growing relationship between Doro and Mallow. They work well together. She brings out his more playful side sometimes and he makes sure she understands this investigation is dangerous and when he offers to escort her home it's not because he doesn't think she can't take care of herself but because he's concerned because the killer is someone known to her on campus and could be hiding in plain sight.
The minor secondary characters are so well developed they feel real. Doro's best friend Aggie is sweet and kind. She's a good listener and sharp enough to understand the significance of what people innocently tell her or don't tell her. She's a poet with her feet on the ground when needs be.
Wade Lammers, the local constable, is older but not as old as Doro's dad. He's kindly and knows how to treat the locals if he wants their cooperation with an investigation. Wade also is not so arrogant that he can't accept working as a subordinate for a younger man. He's willing to help with the investigation in any capacity. He's a wonderful father, a single dad to some energetic young children, one of whom gets into a schoolyard accident typical of hyperactive boys. Wade is also a doting son and when his mother is in the hospital, he drops everything to be with her even though they haven't solved the mystery. Too bad President Winwood is such a snob he can't see all of Wade's amazing qualities. He only sees townie and turns up his super snobby nose.
Mrs. Jones, is a lovely woman, a motherly sort but also one who needs to keep active and use her brain. Mrs. Islington is very nice. She is eager to fatten up Mallow. She'll only spill the tea to Doro and Aggie, women she knows well and not the police until she sees Doro trusts Mallow and he's so young and thin, she needs to fatten him up. She reminds me of my Nonnie who always fed her family and anyone else who stopped by with massive quantities of food.
So who killed Professor Corlon? Was it one of the students or faculty members?
I see Hoopla has this series. I can't wait to read the rest.
September 8, 2023
This is the first book I’ve read by DS Lang and I enjoyed the story. It was a fun mystery and I like the setting of a small college campus in the 1920s and the main character Doro. Doro works in the library on campus, teaches a course on mystery novels and leads a group on campus of “Young Women Voters for Equality and Justice” concerning themselves with on campus issues. Doro is a young single woman and one of a small number of females on the faculty. After a rather progressive President of the college retires, the new President and three of his cronies come to Michaw College seeking to turn back the tide. Their agenda seems to be returning the school to an elite all male institution abolishing sports and women from the campus. None of them seem fond of our main character! After one of these new administrators is found murdered the newly hired campus security officer, Ev Mallow is on the case. Doro joins in the investigation as an “armchair sleuth” and things are off and running.
Things I enjoyed about the book include the interplay between Doro and Mallow. I found the dialogue to be natural and it flowed well and their interactions were engaging. There is definitely a spark between the two. Doro and her good friend and fellow teacher Aggie work well together as they seek to help solve the mystery whether Mallow wants their help or not! The campus and town are quaint and as Doro grew up there she has fond relationships with much of the town and employees of the college which is delightful. Doro is a forward thinking “modern” young woman for her times and although serious, she is also extremely likeable. The story moves along at a good clip and there are several possible suspects each with their own possible motives for murder. The ending ties up loose ends nicely and I feel there is more in store for Doro and Officer Mallow.
I will admit now that mysteries is a relatively recent genre for me. Although I enjoyed the story itself I knew from the very first chapter who the murderer was. I kept reading to see when the rest of the characters would put it all together! I now understand that this is a type of mystery in and of itself I think. I knew “who did it” but didn’t know why. So I got to sort of sleuth it out with the characters as they put it all together. That was fun! I loved how most everyone wanted to accommodate Doro and Aggie in their detective work. The note at the end of the book said this series would have a “cozy” tone and this one did!
Just a few little critiques if I may….
There was a lot of shrugging going on and particularly a half shrug lifting one shoulder. It felt very repetitive and became an annoyance to me. As were other references to the male characters rubbing their faces or necks. I felt there might be opportunity for other ways to express emotions of the characters.
Also I’d love a bit more physical descriptions of the main characters. Especially relating to their physical ability to perhaps commit a crime. I also wondered a lot about what Doro looked like or how she dressed. One other small thing was regarding the puppy. When it showed up at the end it took me a few minutes to figure out how I had missed it in the story. It made for a nice ending but was rather out of the blue after such a very brief and passing mention of it earlier in the book.
All in all the Catalogued Corpse was a fun read. Love the title!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Things I enjoyed about the book include the interplay between Doro and Mallow. I found the dialogue to be natural and it flowed well and their interactions were engaging. There is definitely a spark between the two. Doro and her good friend and fellow teacher Aggie work well together as they seek to help solve the mystery whether Mallow wants their help or not! The campus and town are quaint and as Doro grew up there she has fond relationships with much of the town and employees of the college which is delightful. Doro is a forward thinking “modern” young woman for her times and although serious, she is also extremely likeable. The story moves along at a good clip and there are several possible suspects each with their own possible motives for murder. The ending ties up loose ends nicely and I feel there is more in store for Doro and Officer Mallow.
I will admit now that mysteries is a relatively recent genre for me. Although I enjoyed the story itself I knew from the very first chapter who the murderer was. I kept reading to see when the rest of the characters would put it all together! I now understand that this is a type of mystery in and of itself I think. I knew “who did it” but didn’t know why. So I got to sort of sleuth it out with the characters as they put it all together. That was fun! I loved how most everyone wanted to accommodate Doro and Aggie in their detective work. The note at the end of the book said this series would have a “cozy” tone and this one did!
Just a few little critiques if I may….
There was a lot of shrugging going on and particularly a half shrug lifting one shoulder. It felt very repetitive and became an annoyance to me. As were other references to the male characters rubbing their faces or necks. I felt there might be opportunity for other ways to express emotions of the characters.
Also I’d love a bit more physical descriptions of the main characters. Especially relating to their physical ability to perhaps commit a crime. I also wondered a lot about what Doro looked like or how she dressed. One other small thing was regarding the puppy. When it showed up at the end it took me a few minutes to figure out how I had missed it in the story. It made for a nice ending but was rather out of the blue after such a very brief and passing mention of it earlier in the book.
All in all the Catalogued Corpse was a fun read. Love the title!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 25, 2025
An exceptionally well written cozy mystery! I have been wanting to read D. S. Lang's books for a while now. After reading The Vintage Valentine A Doro Banyon Cozy Historical Short Story, I fell in love with the story and characters and immediately moved the Doro Banyon series to the top of my TBR list. Immediately, I realized this is an unputdownable series. Everything about the plot is amazing. From being set in the midwest, to based on a female heroine who is educated and determined to build her career while still being family/friend oriented, to having a leading mean who slowly learns to trust the heroine and her best friend. Everything about it is absolute aces!
I adore the midwest town setting. Being a midwest girl, it pulls at the heartstrings for me, especially since I now live in the south. This is the first cozy mystery series, set in the midwest, that I have had the pleasure of reading.
All of the main characters are simply wonderful. Doro is a strong willed, well educated, no nonsense woman who has worked hard to make a way for herself in the world. She is essentially an obstinate headstrong girl; she knows what she wants and she has worked her butt off to achieve it. Mallow is a strong leading man. From beginning his new job early, to having to help with his old job, and learning to allow himself to trust others, allows for the read to adore him. Aggie is simply enjoyable. She is sweet, hard working, dedicated, and loyal. The history between Aggie and Doro gives such a positive dimension to the story. Let's not forget Tee. Tee is the link that was missing in Doro life. To find out what I mean, you'll have to read the book.
I can honestly say that there are few books/series that I have read that have engrossed me as much as this series has. This series does not contain distracting subplots, or varying points of view, or storylines that just die out. This is why this series is now one of my favorites. It is so well written, that everything encircles the main plot/storyline. It pulls you in and leaves you wanting more, you don't want to put it down. The characters are incredibly enjoyable and the storyline is absolutely riveting.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. I cannot wait to continue on in the series. You must give this book a try, I promise you will love it. It is a quintessential cozy historical mystery. Aside from a couple of series I read a few months ago, I hadn’t found another marvelous series that draws you in, but D. S. Lang has reminded me of why I love the cozy historical mystery genre and I will be forever grateful to her for that.
Thank you, D. S. Lang, for sharing your wonderful talent with us! I am so grateful to have found your books.
Next up, The Murdered Matron!
Happy reading! 📖
I adore the midwest town setting. Being a midwest girl, it pulls at the heartstrings for me, especially since I now live in the south. This is the first cozy mystery series, set in the midwest, that I have had the pleasure of reading.
All of the main characters are simply wonderful. Doro is a strong willed, well educated, no nonsense woman who has worked hard to make a way for herself in the world. She is essentially an obstinate headstrong girl; she knows what she wants and she has worked her butt off to achieve it. Mallow is a strong leading man. From beginning his new job early, to having to help with his old job, and learning to allow himself to trust others, allows for the read to adore him. Aggie is simply enjoyable. She is sweet, hard working, dedicated, and loyal. The history between Aggie and Doro gives such a positive dimension to the story. Let's not forget Tee. Tee is the link that was missing in Doro life. To find out what I mean, you'll have to read the book.
I can honestly say that there are few books/series that I have read that have engrossed me as much as this series has. This series does not contain distracting subplots, or varying points of view, or storylines that just die out. This is why this series is now one of my favorites. It is so well written, that everything encircles the main plot/storyline. It pulls you in and leaves you wanting more, you don't want to put it down. The characters are incredibly enjoyable and the storyline is absolutely riveting.
Overall, I highly recommend this book. I cannot wait to continue on in the series. You must give this book a try, I promise you will love it. It is a quintessential cozy historical mystery. Aside from a couple of series I read a few months ago, I hadn’t found another marvelous series that draws you in, but D. S. Lang has reminded me of why I love the cozy historical mystery genre and I will be forever grateful to her for that.
Thank you, D. S. Lang, for sharing your wonderful talent with us! I am so grateful to have found your books.
Next up, The Murdered Matron!
Happy reading! 📖
October 16, 2025
The Catalogued Corpse is an excellent start to D.S. Lang’s new Dora Banyon series. I enjoyed it tremendously. The smalltown college campus setting, the struggle for women’s educational rights, and the accurate historical details filtered throughout all brought the 1920s era to life!
Yet, it was the characters themselves who gripped my attention from the very first page to the end. They were all so well-defined, good and bad, and I fell in love with Dora and her fellow teacher, Aggie, as they work together trying to solve the murder. Everett Mallow, the campus security office, is great addition to the ‘team’ and the mystery was extremely well-constructed with suspects piling up. And in the end, with all the loose ends tied up nicely, the author makes sure readers are anxious to find out more about the main characters in later books.
As a writer, I’ve struggled starting a new series. It can be very challenging introducing all new characters and trying to balance between giving readers enough information without revealing too much at the same time. D.S. Lang did a fantastic job, and I highly recommend this series to everyone who loves a good, absorbing cozy mystery.
Yet, it was the characters themselves who gripped my attention from the very first page to the end. They were all so well-defined, good and bad, and I fell in love with Dora and her fellow teacher, Aggie, as they work together trying to solve the murder. Everett Mallow, the campus security office, is great addition to the ‘team’ and the mystery was extremely well-constructed with suspects piling up. And in the end, with all the loose ends tied up nicely, the author makes sure readers are anxious to find out more about the main characters in later books.
As a writer, I’ve struggled starting a new series. It can be very challenging introducing all new characters and trying to balance between giving readers enough information without revealing too much at the same time. D.S. Lang did a fantastic job, and I highly recommend this series to everyone who loves a good, absorbing cozy mystery.
August 23, 2023
The protagonist in our novel is college librarian Doro Banyon. One day when she arrives for work she discovers the body of her adversary, Professor Hemet Corlon, near the card catalogues. Initially evidence points to a terrible accident, but then is changes to murder. As Doro discovered the body she was the main suspect. But then people began to put two and two together. The school had just changed to coeducation and Professor Corlon was rallying up the forces to have all the women kicked out they find more than one person who wanted to see an end to the professor. In seeking answers, Doro joins forces with her best friend to find who killed Corlon.
I fell in love with this work. This is my first novel I have read written by D.S. Lang, and I was totally hooked. Her writing is excellent. The plot line well defined. Her characters are well developed and strong. I recommend this novel. You will not be disappointed with this electrifying adventure. I received this novel from BookSirens. This is my true and honest opinion.
I fell in love with this work. This is my first novel I have read written by D.S. Lang, and I was totally hooked. Her writing is excellent. The plot line well defined. Her characters are well developed and strong. I recommend this novel. You will not be disappointed with this electrifying adventure. I received this novel from BookSirens. This is my true and honest opinion.
March 5, 2025
This was a fast, slow read. If that makes any sense. I read the book quickly, but it took a while to get going, and never really reached full speed.
November 4, 2025
Great mystery
Loved Doro and Mallow. The mystery and murder was indepth and well plotted. The 1920s feel was great.
This was my first DS Lang book it won't be the last.
Loved Doro and Mallow. The mystery and murder was indepth and well plotted. The 1920s feel was great.
This was my first DS Lang book it won't be the last.
September 9, 2023
I loved "The Catalogued Corpse" by D.S. Lang and especially the relationship that is brewing between Doro the college librarian and professor of Murder Mystery Novels literature and Mallow, the new campus security guard who's also working with the FBI's prohibition team. My favorite cozies are those that are historical in nature, and having this one set in the 1920's, the decade that came in like a lamb and left like a lion is one of my favorite times in history made this story even better.
Doro discovers her boss, a mean and contemptuous man and one who's tangled with Doro on several occasions' dead at the card catalogue area and because of their hostile past Doro becomes one of the main suspects in his murder. So, with the help of Mallow, the new security guard Doro sets out to clear herself and find the culprit hoping it's not someone she knows and trusts. Several people had legitimate beefs with the victim and the suspect list is long especially since he was planning on taking the college back to an all-male campus and remove her class on murder mysteries from the schedule. Seems the college president and the 3 other professors, including the murder victim he brought with him when he took over for the previous president were intent on banning women, since they believed women had no business in an academic institution.
This was a fun read and didn't take me more than a day to finish. It was exciting and the murder mystery was detailed and well laid out. It kept me guessing most of the book with so many suspects I wasn't sure till almost the end which one it really was. And it was a bit of a shock too! The last person I expected was the one that murdered the professor. I'm looking forward to book 2 and beyond. Sign me up, I'm on board for more Doro and Mallow. Happy Reading!
Doro discovers her boss, a mean and contemptuous man and one who's tangled with Doro on several occasions' dead at the card catalogue area and because of their hostile past Doro becomes one of the main suspects in his murder. So, with the help of Mallow, the new security guard Doro sets out to clear herself and find the culprit hoping it's not someone she knows and trusts. Several people had legitimate beefs with the victim and the suspect list is long especially since he was planning on taking the college back to an all-male campus and remove her class on murder mysteries from the schedule. Seems the college president and the 3 other professors, including the murder victim he brought with him when he took over for the previous president were intent on banning women, since they believed women had no business in an academic institution.
This was a fun read and didn't take me more than a day to finish. It was exciting and the murder mystery was detailed and well laid out. It kept me guessing most of the book with so many suspects I wasn't sure till almost the end which one it really was. And it was a bit of a shock too! The last person I expected was the one that murdered the professor. I'm looking forward to book 2 and beyond. Sign me up, I'm on board for more Doro and Mallow. Happy Reading!
September 9, 2023
Intriguing mystery that depicts well the change in society after the GREAT WAR (WW1). The story is set in a college environment where women have started to gain teaching places - however due to a management change their status is threatened. Not only does the new management want to step back and not admit women into their classes or as staff they also want to curtail the sports activity as it brings some lower socio-economic men into the college classes.
Doro is a teacher who is highly qualified but her position is precarious and she stumbles upon the body of one of the new management.
This is how she with the help of a security officer solve the crime.
I loved the pace of the story and the descriptions of the era. The two main characters are very likable too.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Doro is a teacher who is highly qualified but her position is precarious and she stumbles upon the body of one of the new management.
This is how she with the help of a security officer solve the crime.
I loved the pace of the story and the descriptions of the era. The two main characters are very likable too.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 22, 2023
I love a good Agatha Christie-style whodunit and this one was right up my alley! So often fiction authors tackling a historical setting really don't do their homework but the care and research that went into accurately portraying the spirit of the 1920's was so evident in this book.
Dora was up against a brick wall from the very get-go but her determination and sleuthing skills allowed her to break through barriers and take on a staid old boy's club with aplomb.
A charming and well-conceived mystery.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Dora was up against a brick wall from the very get-go but her determination and sleuthing skills allowed her to break through barriers and take on a staid old boy's club with aplomb.
A charming and well-conceived mystery.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 28, 2023
This was a fun book and I did not figure who the killer was until the end. What a great new start to a new series. I enjoyed reading about Doro Banyon and her job at a college in the 1920's. There was a lot of conflict about Woman working and teaching at a college. It seems that Men thought that a woman's place was at home and Doro received a lot of discouragement and just meanness on the part of the College Professors and President at the College. The mystery was interesting and it showed a part of history that Women had to prove themselves and have a higher degree than the Men at the College just to work at the college. I recommend this book it was a fun mystery.
September 14, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. It is a very quick easy read. I like the main characters. The mystery is not too complicated, though there are several suspects. I did correctly identify the correct one. It was fun seeing the relationship between Doro and Everett warm up. I also liked that the setting was a college campus.
December 11, 2024
D.S. Lang's "The Catalogued Corpse" introduces readers to the intriguing world of Dorothea "Doro" Banyon, a college librarian at Michaw College, nestled in a small Ohio town. Doro begins her day with an unsettling discovery: the library door is ajar, and puddles from the rain lead her to a disturbing scene. Following the trail, she finds the dead body of Professor Hemet Corlon, her long-standing adversary over the college's coeducation policy, near the card catalogues. Although it appears to be an unfortunate accident, Officer Everett Mallow, the new school security officer, harbors suspicions of foul play. The tension between Doro and Professor Corlon, rooted in their opposing views on the inclusion of women at the formerly all-male institution, initially places Doro under a shadow of suspicion.
The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a college community divided. While the majority of professors and students support the inclusion of women and the progressive coeducation system, a small, influential faction known as The Fearsome Foursome are rumored to revert the college to its male-only past. This faction, led by President Winwood, stands as a significant obstacle for advocates like Doro. The animosity toward Corlon is palpable, with many seeing his demise as a potential relief. Doro, determined to first clear her name while uncovering the truth of two young students that suddenly left town around the time of Corlon’s death, teams up with her best friend, Agatha “Aggie” Darwine, to solve the mystery surrounding the professor's untimely death.
D.S. Lang crafts a vivid tapestry of characters, each brought to life through meticulous descriptions that allow readers to visualize and connect with them. The historical setting is intricately woven into the storyline, with the author skillfully incorporating elements such as period attire, language, and the evolving rights of women. This attention to detail enriches the narrative, providing readers with an immersive experience that is both informative and entertaining. D.S. Lang's ability to embed historical nuances seamlessly into the plot is a testament to her prowess in creating a compelling historical cozy mystery.
The plot is masterfully constructed, offering a clear and engaging progression of the investigation. D.S. Lang introduces a range of suspects, allowing readers to engage actively with the mystery and speculate about the identity of the culprit. Despite the multitude of characters involved, D.S. Lang skillfully avoids overwhelming the reader, maintaining a balance that keeps the narrative both intriguing and accessible. The inclusion of red herrings further adds to the suspense, as they are cleverly plotted, ensuring that readers remain engrossed and eager to uncover the truth alongside Doro.
Doro Banyon emerges as a formidable investigator, her character beautifully developed to showcase her intellectual acumen and unique perspective. Despite being labeled an "armchair detective," Doro's keen observational skills allow her to notice details others might overlook. Her dynamic with Officer Mallow and Constable Lammers is particularly interesting, highlighting their contrasting approaches and appearances and further enriching the narrative. D.S. Lang's portrayal of Doro is both empowering and relatable, making her a protagonist readers will root for throughout the series.
The conclusion of "The Catalogued Corpse" provides an unexpected yet satisfying twist, masterfully crafted by D.S. Lang, which leaves readers both surprised and gratified. This ending is not only surprising but also entirely plausible, tying together intricate plot threads in a way that demonstrates D.S. Lang's adeptness at crafting a well-rounded mystery. Throughout the novel, the suspense builds steadily, leading to a climax that resolves lingering questions while ensuring that the conclusion is both logical and unexpected, making it a standout in the genre of historical cozy mysteries.
As readers turn the final page of "The Catalogued Corpse," their eagerness for the next installment, "The Murdered Matron," is sure to be undeniable. Joining Doro on her next set of adventures and challenges is anticipated, as she is sure to navigate the intricacies of her world with the promise of further exploration into historical contexts and the continued development of beloved characters. "The Catalogued Corpse" is, without a doubt, a must-read for aficionados of historical cozy mysteries, offering a perfect blend of intrigue, historical context, and character development that sets the stage for an exciting series.
The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a college community divided. While the majority of professors and students support the inclusion of women and the progressive coeducation system, a small, influential faction known as The Fearsome Foursome are rumored to revert the college to its male-only past. This faction, led by President Winwood, stands as a significant obstacle for advocates like Doro. The animosity toward Corlon is palpable, with many seeing his demise as a potential relief. Doro, determined to first clear her name while uncovering the truth of two young students that suddenly left town around the time of Corlon’s death, teams up with her best friend, Agatha “Aggie” Darwine, to solve the mystery surrounding the professor's untimely death.
D.S. Lang crafts a vivid tapestry of characters, each brought to life through meticulous descriptions that allow readers to visualize and connect with them. The historical setting is intricately woven into the storyline, with the author skillfully incorporating elements such as period attire, language, and the evolving rights of women. This attention to detail enriches the narrative, providing readers with an immersive experience that is both informative and entertaining. D.S. Lang's ability to embed historical nuances seamlessly into the plot is a testament to her prowess in creating a compelling historical cozy mystery.
The plot is masterfully constructed, offering a clear and engaging progression of the investigation. D.S. Lang introduces a range of suspects, allowing readers to engage actively with the mystery and speculate about the identity of the culprit. Despite the multitude of characters involved, D.S. Lang skillfully avoids overwhelming the reader, maintaining a balance that keeps the narrative both intriguing and accessible. The inclusion of red herrings further adds to the suspense, as they are cleverly plotted, ensuring that readers remain engrossed and eager to uncover the truth alongside Doro.
Doro Banyon emerges as a formidable investigator, her character beautifully developed to showcase her intellectual acumen and unique perspective. Despite being labeled an "armchair detective," Doro's keen observational skills allow her to notice details others might overlook. Her dynamic with Officer Mallow and Constable Lammers is particularly interesting, highlighting their contrasting approaches and appearances and further enriching the narrative. D.S. Lang's portrayal of Doro is both empowering and relatable, making her a protagonist readers will root for throughout the series.
The conclusion of "The Catalogued Corpse" provides an unexpected yet satisfying twist, masterfully crafted by D.S. Lang, which leaves readers both surprised and gratified. This ending is not only surprising but also entirely plausible, tying together intricate plot threads in a way that demonstrates D.S. Lang's adeptness at crafting a well-rounded mystery. Throughout the novel, the suspense builds steadily, leading to a climax that resolves lingering questions while ensuring that the conclusion is both logical and unexpected, making it a standout in the genre of historical cozy mysteries.
As readers turn the final page of "The Catalogued Corpse," their eagerness for the next installment, "The Murdered Matron," is sure to be undeniable. Joining Doro on her next set of adventures and challenges is anticipated, as she is sure to navigate the intricacies of her world with the promise of further exploration into historical contexts and the continued development of beloved characters. "The Catalogued Corpse" is, without a doubt, a must-read for aficionados of historical cozy mysteries, offering a perfect blend of intrigue, historical context, and character development that sets the stage for an exciting series.
October 22, 2023
The Catalogued Corpse by D.S. Lang is an amazing start to a new series set in a small town in 1920s America. It follows a librarian, Doro who is soon nicknamed 'Armchair Detective' by her sleuthing partner Officer Everett Mallow, much to her dismay. The murder of Hemet Corlon happens on the campus of Michaw College and Doro finding the body doesn't do her any favors as she already rubs with the administrators of the college the wrong way because of her gender. And calling in the death of her work enemy couldn’t make the situation any worse. To top it off, the President insists on making the newly hired campus security guard incharge of finding the killer, even when Doro believes her friend Wade Lammers, the town constable, would be the better choice.
I just love books that have passionate librarians. And librarians who finally get to live their dream of solving a mystery? I already love it!! The first four chapters took their time to introduce Doro’s history with the college, her friend and book-sleuthing partner Aggie and the backward mindset of the heads of the college. But after that, I devoured the book in one sitting. Doro and Everett’s friendship had a very rocky start mostly because he was hired by the four men she despised the most so, she thought that this would force him to solve the crime - not to catch the killer, but to just please them. In addition to this, Doro was a suspect in the case and the missing trust didn't work any favors for their friendship. But as things went on and our headstrong librarian did what her books taught her - collect information quietly, find the evidence and clear oneself of the charge - she proved to be a good partner for solving the case. They started working together and she sees a side of him she didn't notice under the arrogance that rolled off him on their first meeting.
This book is a great package of mystery, finding new friendships and doing away with the old, boring mindsets of women being lesser than men. All in all, I do think the mystery was simpler as compared to other books I’ve read, but this book came to me when I was tired of studying and just wanted a simple, cozy mystery book with chemistry between the male and female lead. So, for me, it was a great book and I would love to continue reading the series. I loved it and I can’t wait till December when the next installment of the series will be published.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I just love books that have passionate librarians. And librarians who finally get to live their dream of solving a mystery? I already love it!! The first four chapters took their time to introduce Doro’s history with the college, her friend and book-sleuthing partner Aggie and the backward mindset of the heads of the college. But after that, I devoured the book in one sitting. Doro and Everett’s friendship had a very rocky start mostly because he was hired by the four men she despised the most so, she thought that this would force him to solve the crime - not to catch the killer, but to just please them. In addition to this, Doro was a suspect in the case and the missing trust didn't work any favors for their friendship. But as things went on and our headstrong librarian did what her books taught her - collect information quietly, find the evidence and clear oneself of the charge - she proved to be a good partner for solving the case. They started working together and she sees a side of him she didn't notice under the arrogance that rolled off him on their first meeting.
This book is a great package of mystery, finding new friendships and doing away with the old, boring mindsets of women being lesser than men. All in all, I do think the mystery was simpler as compared to other books I’ve read, but this book came to me when I was tired of studying and just wanted a simple, cozy mystery book with chemistry between the male and female lead. So, for me, it was a great book and I would love to continue reading the series. I loved it and I can’t wait till December when the next installment of the series will be published.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 27, 2023
There’s a dead body in the library, a not well liked professor in the closed college library. In The Catalogued Corpse, D.S. Lang takes us back to 1928 in a small town in Ohio. So we are dealing with now almost 100 year old norms and behaviors which are vastly different from today. It’s a very cozy cozy. Everything is lower key and more formal, along with a healthy dose of misogyny. Doro Banyon, the assistant librarian and professor of a course on the mystery novel finds Professor Hemet Corlon, chair of the English department, dead on the floor having been bashed by a drawer from the card catalog. Corlon has made enemies on campus, as has the relatively recently hired college president who believes that that the student body and faculty should be restored to its historic all male composition.
So very early on, I’m happy that someone has had the good sense to murder Corlon and hope for the same fate for brutish President Winwood.
Solving the crime falls primarily to the new college security officer Everett Mallow and Doro. What I most liked about the book was the character development across the board but especially of Doro and Everett. I consider this a character driven story, more so than the mystery, which was fairly predictable given the setting and expected college personnel and students.
Two things were challenging in the reading process, the slow pace and the absence of much tension. I felt both reflected what it must have been like to solve a crime in the 20s with almost no technology (save for operator assisted phone calls and a borrowed fingerprint kit) and in a setting where everyday life was fairly simple and straightforward. I wanted a little more excitement to hold my interest, hence the 3.5 star rating. I did however find the outcome to be satisfying. It’s an easy, enjoyable read.
This was the first book I have read of Ms. Lane’s offerings, all of which are set in the 1920’s in northern Ohio, where I’m from originally. I look forward to continuing the story of Doro and Everett in the second book in this new series, The Murdered Matron.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and to BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review an ARC.
So very early on, I’m happy that someone has had the good sense to murder Corlon and hope for the same fate for brutish President Winwood.
Solving the crime falls primarily to the new college security officer Everett Mallow and Doro. What I most liked about the book was the character development across the board but especially of Doro and Everett. I consider this a character driven story, more so than the mystery, which was fairly predictable given the setting and expected college personnel and students.
Two things were challenging in the reading process, the slow pace and the absence of much tension. I felt both reflected what it must have been like to solve a crime in the 20s with almost no technology (save for operator assisted phone calls and a borrowed fingerprint kit) and in a setting where everyday life was fairly simple and straightforward. I wanted a little more excitement to hold my interest, hence the 3.5 star rating. I did however find the outcome to be satisfying. It’s an easy, enjoyable read.
This was the first book I have read of Ms. Lane’s offerings, all of which are set in the 1920’s in northern Ohio, where I’m from originally. I look forward to continuing the story of Doro and Everett in the second book in this new series, The Murdered Matron.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and to BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review an ARC.
September 29, 2023
Note: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to the author D.S Lang and BookSirens for the opportunity.
It has been a while since I’ve delved deep into a book that has been considered “cozy” so please bear with me. I really like the short chapters. The pacing is a bit slow, and it seems most of the story is filler, but for a first book in a possible series I would give the benefit of the doubt. I think the author is trying to figure the story pace themselves without giving away too much but give enough to keep the reader's attention. I kind of wish there was more action though and not so much telling and conversation. We meet Dorothy aka Doro as our main character. She works as the librarian at the college where her father used to be part of the faculty. She joined them not too long before the story started. The story begins as Doro is coming into work and finds one of her colleagues dead. It would seem he was hit by a catalog drawer! What a way to start a workday right? Enter Officer Everett Marlow who is an agent with the FBI that has just been hired on as campus security. Now this book is set in a small town in the 1920’s so not only does everyone know everyone, but women are becoming bolder in their desire for equality. So, Mr. Hot shot starts off investigating this case by putting his foot in his mouth and making assumptions about people he knows too little about. Way to endear yourself to the locals Marlow! Eventually, as the case continues, I warmed up to Marlow only because Doro does. It also becomes apparent that not everyone at the college likes the idea of it being co-ed which causes problems for the case because bias leads many people looking guilty of being the murderer. I enjoy reading the banter between Doro and Marlow though and the friendship between Doro and Aggie warms my heart. Overall, this seems to be a good start, but three chapters from the end and they still hadn’t found the killer- just suspects? It seems a bit drawn out to me. Too much discussion and not enough action. It might be a cozy mystery, but the mystery and the in between felt like there could have been more. I would still recommend it to readers who are looking for a change of pace that comes with books written in a town small enough to let you relax even if the people are nosy! I look forward to reading more from this author and about Doro Banyon as the series progresses.
It has been a while since I’ve delved deep into a book that has been considered “cozy” so please bear with me. I really like the short chapters. The pacing is a bit slow, and it seems most of the story is filler, but for a first book in a possible series I would give the benefit of the doubt. I think the author is trying to figure the story pace themselves without giving away too much but give enough to keep the reader's attention. I kind of wish there was more action though and not so much telling and conversation. We meet Dorothy aka Doro as our main character. She works as the librarian at the college where her father used to be part of the faculty. She joined them not too long before the story started. The story begins as Doro is coming into work and finds one of her colleagues dead. It would seem he was hit by a catalog drawer! What a way to start a workday right? Enter Officer Everett Marlow who is an agent with the FBI that has just been hired on as campus security. Now this book is set in a small town in the 1920’s so not only does everyone know everyone, but women are becoming bolder in their desire for equality. So, Mr. Hot shot starts off investigating this case by putting his foot in his mouth and making assumptions about people he knows too little about. Way to endear yourself to the locals Marlow! Eventually, as the case continues, I warmed up to Marlow only because Doro does. It also becomes apparent that not everyone at the college likes the idea of it being co-ed which causes problems for the case because bias leads many people looking guilty of being the murderer. I enjoy reading the banter between Doro and Marlow though and the friendship between Doro and Aggie warms my heart. Overall, this seems to be a good start, but three chapters from the end and they still hadn’t found the killer- just suspects? It seems a bit drawn out to me. Too much discussion and not enough action. It might be a cozy mystery, but the mystery and the in between felt like there could have been more. I would still recommend it to readers who are looking for a change of pace that comes with books written in a town small enough to let you relax even if the people are nosy! I look forward to reading more from this author and about Doro Banyon as the series progresses.
October 21, 2023
This is a fun first book in a new mystery series featuring a college campus in 1928. The mystery itself is interesting, and much of the story revolves around the big issues of the day: whether coeds and sports have any place at a serious college. Of course, the heroine thinks they do! But what about the school president? Or the new guy he’s hired to be the campus security officer?
I would have liked more description of clothes (never once were hats mentioned!), cars, the school itself, etc because I think it would have added to the 1928 setting, but there were enough details (milk a bit warm because the ice in the communal ice chest was melting— they’d need to send someone to get a fresh chunk in a couple days) to keep me rooted in the time period. I enjoyed the chemistry between the two main characters and Doro’s friendship with Aggie. I look forward to reading others in the series and watching the various relationships grow between the characters introduced here.
If you enjoyed the Glennon Normal School series by RA Wallace, you will likely enjoy this one. It has a similar feel, though thankfully The Catalogued Corpse is a reasonable length and the mystery is solved in one book! I had fun comparing the history, since the two stories both take place on small American college campuses with female leads, but a decade apart.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I would have liked more description of clothes (never once were hats mentioned!), cars, the school itself, etc because I think it would have added to the 1928 setting, but there were enough details (milk a bit warm because the ice in the communal ice chest was melting— they’d need to send someone to get a fresh chunk in a couple days) to keep me rooted in the time period. I enjoyed the chemistry between the two main characters and Doro’s friendship with Aggie. I look forward to reading others in the series and watching the various relationships grow between the characters introduced here.
If you enjoyed the Glennon Normal School series by RA Wallace, you will likely enjoy this one. It has a similar feel, though thankfully The Catalogued Corpse is a reasonable length and the mystery is solved in one book! I had fun comparing the history, since the two stories both take place on small American college campuses with female leads, but a decade apart.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 26, 2023
3.5 stars
A pleasant and non-demanding series debut with an interesting setting - post WWI America with an emphasis on the changing situation for women.
Doro has a master's degree in library science, unusual for anyone in that time, and teaches at a small private university where her father was employed for years. The college had been making progressive strides until a new president was hired. Now they want to turn back the clock, returning the campus to an all-male student body. And female teachers have been slow to have been awarded tenure.
Doro and her friends have started a feminist group in the aftermath of the women's suffrage movement. She is an opinionated young woman, with a fairly large chip on her shoulder - understandably.
So, when she discovers the dead body of one of the campus's most virulent misogynists dead in the library, she briefly falls under suspicion. But it turns out the victim had many enemies. The new campus security officer gets off on the wrong foot with Doro but they end up working together as he needs her local connections and knowledge to investigate. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A pleasant and non-demanding series debut with an interesting setting - post WWI America with an emphasis on the changing situation for women.
Doro has a master's degree in library science, unusual for anyone in that time, and teaches at a small private university where her father was employed for years. The college had been making progressive strides until a new president was hired. Now they want to turn back the clock, returning the campus to an all-male student body. And female teachers have been slow to have been awarded tenure.
Doro and her friends have started a feminist group in the aftermath of the women's suffrage movement. She is an opinionated young woman, with a fairly large chip on her shoulder - understandably.
So, when she discovers the dead body of one of the campus's most virulent misogynists dead in the library, she briefly falls under suspicion. But it turns out the victim had many enemies. The new campus security officer gets off on the wrong foot with Doro but they end up working together as he needs her local connections and knowledge to investigate. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2023
Though the premise of the book was a good whodunit and managed to address many disparities of expected women’s gender roles, I did find it a bit trite. It seemed to be lacking more meat in the story and depth to the characters/ suspects. I enjoyed the protagonists and the new security officer as characters, though for a first book in a series, I was expecting more background and foundational information about them. The idea is a prestigious member of the college was killed in the library and the woman who works there discovers the body, then is allowed to work with the new officer because the police personnel is called away for a sick family member. There are many people who would’ve wanted him out of the way, and the new officer does not know anyone in town or their shared history.
Being an arm chair sleuth and teacher of mystery novels as a course, apparently lends itself to being allowed on the case and privy to the case details and suspects. It was a bit suspect that he would welcome her and her friend’s assistance, especially being a bureau man.
It was enjoyable, light, and a cozy mystery that you can start and finish quickly. I would try book 2 to see where the author heads in developing the characters, as they were likeable.
Being an arm chair sleuth and teacher of mystery novels as a course, apparently lends itself to being allowed on the case and privy to the case details and suspects. It was a bit suspect that he would welcome her and her friend’s assistance, especially being a bureau man.
It was enjoyable, light, and a cozy mystery that you can start and finish quickly. I would try book 2 to see where the author heads in developing the characters, as they were likeable.
November 13, 2024
I read a later book in this series a while back (The Problem Professor) and when this first book in the series came up as a freebie in the mystery book giveaway, I thought I'd give Doro Banyon another read. Like the other book in the series, the characters are likeable enough, and it's interesting to read about the women's issues of the 1920s as Doro is quite unusual with her masters degree and job as a college librarian. However, like the other book I read, there is way too much rumination and repeating of the same facts. It's amazing that the suspects in the murder keep answering the same questions over and over. I could trim many pages from the story and not lose anything - same with the Problem Professor. I prefer D.S. Lang's other series, the Arabella Stewart mysteries, although those books suffer the same repetition and slow action. It's an easy read, though, and I like that it's set in small town Ohio. I grew up in such a town (albeit much later than the 1920s) and one thing the author gets right is how everyone knows everyone's business! There are few secrets in a small town.
August 13, 2023
A strong start for what promises to be another great series by D. S. Lang. I love her college setting in the 1920s, where so much was changing for women…though not without struggles. Some of that friction is at the heart of this unique murder mystery! I also like the strong friendship between Doro and Aggie (which began in the short prequel, The Lost Exam). They each contribute different skills and personality traits that make them a great team. There is a potential love interest for Doro in the new business-like security officer on campus. Initially it was hard for him to share his case with an “armchair detective,” but the result was obviously worth it. I wonder what they’ll share in the next book?! I received an advance copy of this great read from the publisher and was not required to post a review.
October 1, 2023
I enjoyed this cozy mystery set in a college town in the 1920s. It's not long since women have been given the right to vote but the new head of the college seems determined that women's place is in the home and is eager to make the college all male and all academic with no sports programs in place. No surprise then when he is found dead in the library by Doro.
She soon inserts herself into the new detective's investigation. I enjoyed how this pair bounced off each other. The whole setting was so interesting and I enjoyed being swept back in time with no technology and relying on old fashioned methods to figure things out. It's a solid start to a series and I definitely want to read the next book to see what causes Doro and Everett to team up again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
She soon inserts herself into the new detective's investigation. I enjoyed how this pair bounced off each other. The whole setting was so interesting and I enjoyed being swept back in time with no technology and relying on old fashioned methods to figure things out. It's a solid start to a series and I definitely want to read the next book to see what causes Doro and Everett to team up again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 19, 2024
Very Enjoyable
A well-written, well-plotted novel set in a small college town, post WWI. I loved the interweaving of emerging women's rights with misogynistic attitudes that contributed to the murder. Most of the characters were quite three-dimensional, sometimes surprising the reader with unsuspected attitudes, and the small-town atmosphere contributed to without overwhelming the story. I found a bit of the legal aspects to be surprising--won't post spoilers, but a couple of aspects of the investigation had me punching out to research when certain ways to manage an investigation would have become legal. I like a book which challenges my knowledge base. This one will definitely be a "keep on Kindle and re-read" in my collection.
A well-written, well-plotted novel set in a small college town, post WWI. I loved the interweaving of emerging women's rights with misogynistic attitudes that contributed to the murder. Most of the characters were quite three-dimensional, sometimes surprising the reader with unsuspected attitudes, and the small-town atmosphere contributed to without overwhelming the story. I found a bit of the legal aspects to be surprising--won't post spoilers, but a couple of aspects of the investigation had me punching out to research when certain ways to manage an investigation would have become legal. I like a book which challenges my knowledge base. This one will definitely be a "keep on Kindle and re-read" in my collection.
Read
September 7, 2023This is an awesome book full of funny but impossible clues. Doro could have solved the mystery herself but it was nice to have some help.
College librarian Doro Banyon discovers the body of her nemesis, Professor Hemet Corlon, near the card catalogues when she arrives for work. Evidence points to a terrible accident, but the new school security officer disagrees. Because Doro and Corlon have been at odds over the status of women at the formerly all-male school, she falls under suspicion—and she isn’t alone. Most professors and students supported women’s suffrage and welcomed coeducation,
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
College librarian Doro Banyon discovers the body of her nemesis, Professor Hemet Corlon, near the card catalogues when she arrives for work. Evidence points to a terrible accident, but the new school security officer disagrees. Because Doro and Corlon have been at odds over the status of women at the formerly all-male school, she falls under suspicion—and she isn’t alone. Most professors and students supported women’s suffrage and welcomed coeducation,
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 14, 2023
A trip back in time to the 1920’s, the politics and complexities of a small college town and a new security officer who hasn’t even officially started work yet makes for a very entertaining story. Doro and Aggie friends, colleagues and employees at Michaw College in rural Ohio start off working this mystery as Doro is the person to find the victim but end up working right along with Officer Mallow despite all their best efforts to avoid it. What ensues is a clever mystery, a cast of colorful characters and perhaps a blossoming romance. First in series and a great start to a hopefully long run!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 17, 2023
Be prepared to step back in time, in the 1920s, when women were fighting to be more than second class citizens. I was given this book free, as an advanced read and I give this review freely. The characters are interesting, but I felt their conversations seemed too modern. I did like the added background color, the use of a crank phone, an electric refrigerator that was special, the raiding of a speak easy, but I wanted to feel as tho I had stepped into the 1920s. I found myself wanting more about prohibition and agents dealing with the complexities of alcohol use. I liked the title, it’s quite clever.
May 8, 2024
The book gives a vivid glimpse of the life of women during 1670's, where Women's Rights were still in its heyday and the presence of misogyny persists. The book focuses on the life of Doro Banyon who works as a librarian in a university that previously barred women from the privilege of education.
The book portrays attitudes and ideals that are currently unacceptable on the modern day and age, and might be a trigger for some. Otherwise, the realism of its portrayal is what makes the reader dive into that timeline in Michigan.
Overall the book is a good read and it makes you crave more for the next book in the series.
The book portrays attitudes and ideals that are currently unacceptable on the modern day and age, and might be a trigger for some. Otherwise, the realism of its portrayal is what makes the reader dive into that timeline in Michigan.
Overall the book is a good read and it makes you crave more for the next book in the series.
March 22, 2025
I got this one during a "stuff your kindle" event a few months ago.
I think cozy mysteries might not be my favorite, but this is also the first one I've read (I think I like my *stakes* too much!)
This was a fun story about a young college librarian who has to help solve a murder during the roaring '2os - between disgruntled colleagues and students' who disliked his sexist ideals, there are a lot of suspects to go around.
I thought the premise was good but I found the pace a little too slow and the prose a little boring. Still, I enjoyed the ending, the characters, and thought it was fun to read about this time period.
I think cozy mysteries might not be my favorite, but this is also the first one I've read (I think I like my *stakes* too much!)
This was a fun story about a young college librarian who has to help solve a murder during the roaring '2os - between disgruntled colleagues and students' who disliked his sexist ideals, there are a lot of suspects to go around.
I thought the premise was good but I found the pace a little too slow and the prose a little boring. Still, I enjoyed the ending, the characters, and thought it was fun to read about this time period.
August 24, 2023
The Catalogued Corpse is book 1 in A Doro Banyon Historical Mystery by D S Long. I really thought that this book was outstanding. I liked the characters and the story is set in a college that has only recently allowed for women students and faculty; after all, women can now vote! Dora finds a dead Professor by the catalog drawers and the mystery begins. The story is definitely a can't put down and I enjoyed every page. I believe that this series should be on every cozy mystery list to be read. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 11, 2023
An enjoyable cozy mystery set on a small college campus in the 1920's. I enjoyed the mystery, and there where enough misleads to make the solution a bit of a challenge, but I was able to guess the murderer before the end. I also appreciated that they wove in social issues, around women and their expanding rights during the time. Overall I would recommend this book to people who enjoy a fairly quick cozy mystery.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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