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Gaslight Mystery #16
Murder in Murray Hill
When facing injustice, the residents of nineteenth-century New York City’s tenements turn to midwife Sarah Brandt and Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy to protect their rights. Now, as the Edgar® and Agatha Award–nominated series continues, the two must track down a cruel criminal preying on the hopes and dreams of innocent women…
A Gaslight Mystery
Frank Malloy has never known any life other than that of a cop, but his newfound inheritance threatens his position within his department. While trying to keep both his relationship with Sarah and his fortune under wraps, he’s assigned to a new case—finding a missing young woman for her worried father, Henry Livingston.
It seems the girl had been responding to “lonely hearts” ads in the paper for months before she disappeared. Her father thinks that she’s eloped with a deceptive stranger, but Malloy fears the worst, knowing that the grifters who place such ads often do much more than simply abscond with their victims. But as Sarah and Malloy delve deeper into a twisted plot targeting the city’s single women, it’s their partnership—both professional and private—that winds up in the greatest peril…
A Gaslight Mystery
Frank Malloy has never known any life other than that of a cop, but his newfound inheritance threatens his position within his department. While trying to keep both his relationship with Sarah and his fortune under wraps, he’s assigned to a new case—finding a missing young woman for her worried father, Henry Livingston.
It seems the girl had been responding to “lonely hearts” ads in the paper for months before she disappeared. Her father thinks that she’s eloped with a deceptive stranger, but Malloy fears the worst, knowing that the grifters who place such ads often do much more than simply abscond with their victims. But as Sarah and Malloy delve deeper into a twisted plot targeting the city’s single women, it’s their partnership—both professional and private—that winds up in the greatest peril…
296 pages, Hardcover
First published May 6, 2014
214 people are currently reading
1480 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Thompson
83 books2,447 followersVictoria Thompson was a beloved authoress of 'standard mystery' novels.
This middle of the road tone is not violent like a 'thriller' but unsanitized (NOT light like a 'cozy mystery'), is unflinchingly adult, serious, and dark.
Humour, romance, family, and compassion balance out the crime part of dear Victoria's unforgettable mysteries.
This middle of the road tone is not violent like a 'thriller' but unsanitized (NOT light like a 'cozy mystery'), is unflinchingly adult, serious, and dark.
Humour, romance, family, and compassion balance out the crime part of dear Victoria's unforgettable mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 439 reviews
April 8, 2019
At last all the pieces are falling into place, family issues are being solved and new lives are beginning for all our favourite characters. Murder in Murray Hill deals with all the domestic issues at the same time as serving up an intriguing murder mystery.
Those were hard days indeed for the average citizens of New York. Little or no help was available from an ill fitted and uneducated police force who seemed prepared to put anyone away for committing a crime whether they did it or not. Luckily there were the occasional few stand outs like Frank and Donatelli to find some justice.
This enjoyable series just gets better and better.
Those were hard days indeed for the average citizens of New York. Little or no help was available from an ill fitted and uneducated police force who seemed prepared to put anyone away for committing a crime whether they did it or not. Luckily there were the occasional few stand outs like Frank and Donatelli to find some justice.
This enjoyable series just gets better and better.
April 7, 2019
Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy is still reeling from recent life changing events, wondering when (not if) his new circumstances will affect his career as a policeman when he’s assigned the case to find Grace Livingston, the missing daughter of an affluent businessman. She’d left on errands and never returned. Frank soon determines that she’d answered a “lonely hearts” ad and fears Grace may have met up with an impostor.
I so enjoyed this story as not only is the case highly engaging but Frank and Sarah are now coming to terms with all the considerations of merging their families. Their grappling with these issues was equally as interesting as the missing persons case. I’d heard of mail order brides during this era but was unaware of lonely hearts scams dating back this far. In this story, plain and unmarriageable women were specifically targeted, making this even more insidious and heartbreaking.
The case took a really sharp turn with the discovery of the “lair” of the man who placed the ad. The whole situation highlighted the powerlessness of women in a world where they had virtually no control over their futures. As usual, the author presents another historical factoid that was enlightening. The outcome of the case was extraordinary, probably more fictional than true to life but I needed that. I also delighted in Frank and Sarah’s new relationship, providing some balance to a story that needed that sunshine. I loved it.
I so enjoyed this story as not only is the case highly engaging but Frank and Sarah are now coming to terms with all the considerations of merging their families. Their grappling with these issues was equally as interesting as the missing persons case. I’d heard of mail order brides during this era but was unaware of lonely hearts scams dating back this far. In this story, plain and unmarriageable women were specifically targeted, making this even more insidious and heartbreaking.
The case took a really sharp turn with the discovery of the “lair” of the man who placed the ad. The whole situation highlighted the powerlessness of women in a world where they had virtually no control over their futures. As usual, the author presents another historical factoid that was enlightening. The outcome of the case was extraordinary, probably more fictional than true to life but I needed that. I also delighted in Frank and Sarah’s new relationship, providing some balance to a story that needed that sunshine. I loved it.
May 18, 2015
I love historical mysteries and the Gaslight Series is one of the best ones out there. The set up for this one is indeed sinister, and as the author herself noted, evil resides in all places and all time periods. In this case, the use of newspaper personal ads lures young women desperately longing to marry into a deadly trap. While we currently lament the use of online dating services and apps, this situation was maybe even more dangerous. Today there are background checks, and Skype and a plethora of other ways to check someone out before meeting them face to face, and of course women are no longer sheltered or as gullible perhaps as Grace was. But, it's still a HUGE risk, as Grace Livingston learned the hard way.
So, while this story is set in a historical time period, the story is just as prevalent today, and is very much a cautionary tale.
This review is the copyrighted property of Night Owl Reviews. To view the review in it's entirety follow this link: https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
So, while this story is set in a historical time period, the story is just as prevalent today, and is very much a cautionary tale.
This review is the copyrighted property of Night Owl Reviews. To view the review in it's entirety follow this link: https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
March 27, 2019
This is a good murder-mystery story in the series. Based on a disturbing premise, the story is heartfelt with a good plot and a good amount of suspense. There are many interesting twists and turns which keep the readers guessing until the offender is revealed.
The personal life of Frank undergoes a major change in this installment. In the previous installment, Frank inherited a fortune from little Catherine's father and became her guardian. In the present one, the knowledge of his inheritance makes him lose his job at the force. Losing the job which he has done most of his adult life doesn't sit well with him. Inasmuch that he cannot be a detective sergeant while being a millionaire, and that he need not earn his living anymore, being forced to leave the police is not easy for him. Victoria Thompson has captured the innermost feelings of Frank very well. At the same time, how he'll spend his time in the future is also hinted. It seems although we lost Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy of New York city police, we'll see a private investigator Frank Malloy!
The courtship of Sarah and Frank is getting along well and they are making plans for their future. I was really hoping they will be married in this installment, but it looks like Victoria Thompson is in no hurry for their wedding as us readers. :) Hopefully, their union will come about soon.
Overall, it was a good installment of the series. I enjoyed the read.
The personal life of Frank undergoes a major change in this installment. In the previous installment, Frank inherited a fortune from little Catherine's father and became her guardian. In the present one, the knowledge of his inheritance makes him lose his job at the force. Losing the job which he has done most of his adult life doesn't sit well with him. Inasmuch that he cannot be a detective sergeant while being a millionaire, and that he need not earn his living anymore, being forced to leave the police is not easy for him. Victoria Thompson has captured the innermost feelings of Frank very well. At the same time, how he'll spend his time in the future is also hinted. It seems although we lost Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy of New York city police, we'll see a private investigator Frank Malloy!
The courtship of Sarah and Frank is getting along well and they are making plans for their future. I was really hoping they will be married in this installment, but it looks like Victoria Thompson is in no hurry for their wedding as us readers. :) Hopefully, their union will come about soon.
Overall, it was a good installment of the series. I enjoyed the read.
April 28, 2019
Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy is looking into the case of Grace Livingston who left her home to run errands two days ago and never returned. Her father is frantic and has asked the police to search for her. Frank quickly discovers that Miss Livingston has responded to a "lonely hearts" ad in the newspaper and has been corresponding with the man behind the ad. When he attempts to track down the name of the man who paid for the advertisement finally comes to fruition, Frank asks Sarah and Maeve to help him with the investigation. They find a house that holds a dead body and a lot of horrific secrets.
This is another strong entry into the Gaslight Mystery series. Frank knows his days as a cop are numbered. As soon as his fellow officers discover that he has inherited millions, he will no longer be able to work with them. Frank needs to work fast, so he brings in his fiancée, Sarah Brandt, along with her housekeeper Maeve, to help him.
Victoria Thompson once again shows us the lack of choice women had in the late 19th century. Their lives and well-being depended on their father and their husbands. If they were not pretty enough to score a husband, they hopefully had other family members who would take them in. When they tried to take their future into their own hands, sometimes it just didn't work out as they expected. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
This is another strong entry into the Gaslight Mystery series. Frank knows his days as a cop are numbered. As soon as his fellow officers discover that he has inherited millions, he will no longer be able to work with them. Frank needs to work fast, so he brings in his fiancée, Sarah Brandt, along with her housekeeper Maeve, to help him.
Victoria Thompson once again shows us the lack of choice women had in the late 19th century. Their lives and well-being depended on their father and their husbands. If they were not pretty enough to score a husband, they hopefully had other family members who would take them in. When they tried to take their future into their own hands, sometimes it just didn't work out as they expected. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
January 25, 2021
Hahaha!!! Malloy is now rich and he doesn't know how to feel about that!
He's still reeling with everything that has happened: some really good things! But he didn't foresee how bad things will get for him at work! Or how people will get envious! He knew that will happen, but not how much it hurt him...
The mystery here is really good and I must amit that I was cheering for the killer(s) and being glad the victim was killed!
He's still reeling with everything that has happened: some really good things! But he didn't foresee how bad things will get for him at work! Or how people will get envious! He knew that will happen, but not how much it hurt him...
The mystery here is really good and I must amit that I was cheering for the killer(s) and being glad the victim was killed!
May 3, 2020
4.25*
“Yet sometimes the world judges females by a different standard and seeks to punish them unjustly.”
As I expected, after the reveal at the end of the previous book, the true meaning of the inheritance becomes clearer. Frank can’t keep his job at the police, however much he would prefer, and Sarah tries to come to term on how her life will change. Neither of them want a life of idleness and Thompson gives us a glimpse of how this could be possible. Smart move, I’d say. Watching the characters try to find a way to make it all work is actually fun too.
Also, the case in this instalment was particularly devious and horrendous! The resolve thankfully was pretty smart.
“Yet sometimes the world judges females by a different standard and seeks to punish them unjustly.”
As I expected, after the reveal at the end of the previous book, the true meaning of the inheritance becomes clearer. Frank can’t keep his job at the police, however much he would prefer, and Sarah tries to come to term on how her life will change. Neither of them want a life of idleness and Thompson gives us a glimpse of how this could be possible. Smart move, I’d say. Watching the characters try to find a way to make it all work is actually fun too.
Also, the case in this instalment was particularly devious and horrendous! The resolve thankfully was pretty smart.
May 19, 2021
New York City Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy gets a new case when a man walks into police headquarters wanting to report his daughter missing. Henry Livingston has no clue where Grace might have gone, but Frank quickly figures out that she has been responding to lonely hearts ads in the newspaper trying to find herself a husband. While she might have eloped with someone, all signs point to something much worse. Is Grace still alive? Can Frank and Sarah Brandt find her?
This book is darker than some of the others in the series, but it deals with that darker subject sympathetically, and there aren’t any details we don’t need. The darker subject of the mystery is balanced out by lighter sub-plots involving Sarah and Frank’s future plans. (And if you aren’t up to date on the series, know that this one spoils some major events from the end of the previous book.) I love the characters, so it was wonderful to check in again with them and find out what is happening in their lives. The mystery is twisty; just when I thought I knew where things were going, something would happen to confuse me again. The world of 1890’s New York City is brought to life expertly without slowing the story down at all. This is another page turning entry in the series.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
This book is darker than some of the others in the series, but it deals with that darker subject sympathetically, and there aren’t any details we don’t need. The darker subject of the mystery is balanced out by lighter sub-plots involving Sarah and Frank’s future plans. (And if you aren’t up to date on the series, know that this one spoils some major events from the end of the previous book.) I love the characters, so it was wonderful to check in again with them and find out what is happening in their lives. The mystery is twisty; just when I thought I knew where things were going, something would happen to confuse me again. The world of 1890’s New York City is brought to life expertly without slowing the story down at all. This is another page turning entry in the series.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
April 25, 2017
This is another solid installment in the wonderful Gaslight Mystery series -- which is now my all-time favorite series of mystery books. The only thing bad I have to say about this series is that I wish they didn't take a year to come out....
In this newest novel, Frank Malloy, NYPD Detective, is trying to hide the fact that, at the end of book 15, he was bequeathed 5 million bucks. He knows as soon as it becomes public, he will be let go from the force -- they can't have a rich "swell" working as a cop. This might seem like a no-brainer to most people; he's rich, so why would he need or want to keep working? But working as a cop and bringing crooks to justice has been who Frank is for so long, he doesn't know what to do with himself otherwise. Although Thompson does not commit herself to the final fate of Malloy, we get some hints that he may end up either as a private eye or a consultant for the NYPD.
As Frank and Sarah ponder their future life together (in book 15, they agreed to marry), Frank is called in on his last case -- to find a missing girl. The case takes some early twists and turns, as we discover some very sick things are going on in what seems like a decent neighborhood of New York. There are two murders to solve, and several suspects. And of course, Sarah and Maeve get involved, as well as Mrs. Ellsworth.
Although I enjoyed this book, I was somewhat disappointed that there weren't more twists and turns. The people who seem to be victims all turn out to be. The villains are who we think they are. What happened is what most people say happened on their first interrogation. The lies are all minor. I kept expecting there to be a sudden twist -- one of the victims turns out only to be pretending, and is really the mastermind behind everything. The guy who was the "assistant" is really the boss. That kind of thing. However, there really weren't any surprises, which I felt cut down the tension later in the story. The most tense part of the book was early on, when Frank and Sarah used Maeve as bait, and I worried that something bad would happen to her. That part got my pulse racing (I like Maeve!), but once she was safe, everything sort of played out in the most obvious way.
That said, the characters introduced in this story are interesting. Although we don't really find out what happens to them beyond the ending of the case, I found myself hoping that the three victims would become friends with each other. Having shared the ordeal they all went through, I could see them bonding... especially the two who were discovered together. I also liked them enough that I wouldn't mind having them put in some "guest appearances" at Sara and Frank's house in future installments. Or maybe they could work at the Mission.
All in all, this was a fun and enjoyable novel with lots of great character development for the major characters, especially Frank and Sarah. There were some fun scenes as well. I especially enjoyed the scene in which Frank and Sarah tell Mrs. Malloy what is going on. Priceless!
If you enjoy the Gaslight Mysteries, this is definitely a book to put on your "must read" list.
In this newest novel, Frank Malloy, NYPD Detective, is trying to hide the fact that, at the end of book 15, he was bequeathed 5 million bucks. He knows as soon as it becomes public, he will be let go from the force -- they can't have a rich "swell" working as a cop. This might seem like a no-brainer to most people; he's rich, so why would he need or want to keep working? But working as a cop and bringing crooks to justice has been who Frank is for so long, he doesn't know what to do with himself otherwise. Although Thompson does not commit herself to the final fate of Malloy, we get some hints that he may end up either as a private eye or a consultant for the NYPD.
As Frank and Sarah ponder their future life together (in book 15, they agreed to marry), Frank is called in on his last case -- to find a missing girl. The case takes some early twists and turns, as we discover some very sick things are going on in what seems like a decent neighborhood of New York. There are two murders to solve, and several suspects. And of course, Sarah and Maeve get involved, as well as Mrs. Ellsworth.
Although I enjoyed this book, I was somewhat disappointed that there weren't more twists and turns. The people who seem to be victims all turn out to be. The villains are who we think they are. What happened is what most people say happened on their first interrogation. The lies are all minor. I kept expecting there to be a sudden twist -- one of the victims turns out only to be pretending, and is really the mastermind behind everything. The guy who was the "assistant" is really the boss. That kind of thing. However, there really weren't any surprises, which I felt cut down the tension later in the story. The most tense part of the book was early on, when Frank and Sarah used Maeve as bait, and I worried that something bad would happen to her. That part got my pulse racing (I like Maeve!), but once she was safe, everything sort of played out in the most obvious way.
That said, the characters introduced in this story are interesting. Although we don't really find out what happens to them beyond the ending of the case, I found myself hoping that the three victims would become friends with each other. Having shared the ordeal they all went through, I could see them bonding... especially the two who were discovered together. I also liked them enough that I wouldn't mind having them put in some "guest appearances" at Sara and Frank's house in future installments. Or maybe they could work at the Mission.
All in all, this was a fun and enjoyable novel with lots of great character development for the major characters, especially Frank and Sarah. There were some fun scenes as well. I especially enjoyed the scene in which Frank and Sarah tell Mrs. Malloy what is going on. Priceless!
If you enjoy the Gaslight Mysteries, this is definitely a book to put on your "must read" list.
March 9, 2022
Just when I thought the mysteries could get more twisted, we get women in cages.
Per the author’s note, this story was inspired by a home in Ohio where three women were held captive for years. I can picture two of the women in my mind as I’m writing this. How terrifying.
Anyway, this book takes us through more changes for Sarah and Frank personally and professionally. They’re trying to figure out who they’ll be in weeks/months when their financial situation changes. I like how Frank’s first freelance job comes his way and that while they solve the crime, they circumvent the legal system so no one is charged. It’s a new day for Frank Malloy.
Per the author’s note, this story was inspired by a home in Ohio where three women were held captive for years. I can picture two of the women in my mind as I’m writing this. How terrifying.
Anyway, this book takes us through more changes for Sarah and Frank personally and professionally. They’re trying to figure out who they’ll be in weeks/months when their financial situation changes. I like how Frank’s first freelance job comes his way and that while they solve the crime, they circumvent the legal system so no one is charged. It’s a new day for Frank Malloy.
August 11, 2014
Sad to say that I was disappointed with this one. Don't get me wrong, I love spending time with the main characters but their interaction was kinda meh now that they're engaged. I hope that this isn't a case of jumping the shark and that, in future books, we get more of what used to make Malloy and Sarah's relationship interesting. Unfortunately, I also found the mystery part of the story pretty weak...with all of the attention given to the crime, instead. Oh well. *shrug* Hopefully, I'll like the next one better.
October 1, 2017
When facing injustice, the residents of nineteenth-century New York City’s tenements turn to midwife Sarah Brandt and Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy to protect their rights. Now the two must track down a cruel criminal preying on the hopes and dreams of innocent women…
Murder on Murray hill is definitely the darkest book of the Gaslight series so far, while somehow still being a light pleasant read. I'm not sure how that is, but it's true. It's impossible not to be a bit dark considering the subject matter. This book reminded me more of an Anne Perry novel because of the nature of the crime. Amongst the crime solving and the dark mystery, I enjoyed seeing Frank trying to adjust to his new life, and also hide his good fortune and his relationship with Sarah for the time being. He truly is like a fish out of water.
This series is on the cusp of some overdue changes and I cannot wait for them to take place. I hope the changes end up satisfying.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
Murder on Murray hill is definitely the darkest book of the Gaslight series so far, while somehow still being a light pleasant read. I'm not sure how that is, but it's true. It's impossible not to be a bit dark considering the subject matter. This book reminded me more of an Anne Perry novel because of the nature of the crime. Amongst the crime solving and the dark mystery, I enjoyed seeing Frank trying to adjust to his new life, and also hide his good fortune and his relationship with Sarah for the time being. He truly is like a fish out of water.
This series is on the cusp of some overdue changes and I cannot wait for them to take place. I hope the changes end up satisfying.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
January 30, 2021
Sarah Brandt’s household is growing, and she will be looking for a much larger home to accommodate her growing brood (I am holding back on the “spoil”). Mrs. Ellsworth has plans of her own, since she likes to be in the thick of things and she is loath to part with Sarah, et al. Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy, in the meantime, has a new case. The father of a young woman has reported his daughter missing and he fears that she has been duped and compromised by a lonely-hearts predator.
As Frank begins to investigate, he is called to task by his supervisor. Now that Frank is a “man of means”, he no longer fits in with his fellow officers and is unceremoniously shown the door. But Frank is a man of his word and he knows that the case will not be vigorously pursued by anyone else in the department, so he enlists the help of Sarah and Maeve to independently pursue the case outside of the Force, as a Private Detective.
This case is by far one of the ghastliest stories I have read in the series. No giggling here and no amusing antics with Mrs. Ellsworth or Felix and Elizbeth Decker.
A predator posts lonely-hearts advertisements in the local newspaper, attracting spinster women with the promise of love and marriage. The women meet their intended in the park and then stroll off with him under the false pretense that he is taking them to meet his mother. The women are then stripped and trapped in cages for sexual bondage. Those who survive after being released are unable and unwilling to talk about their experiences. When one of the women murders her captor and later his fellow tormentor, other women survivors are persuaded to come forward and thwart any effort to bring her to trial, in a plan hatched by Sarah, whereby true justice will prevail.
As Frank begins to investigate, he is called to task by his supervisor. Now that Frank is a “man of means”, he no longer fits in with his fellow officers and is unceremoniously shown the door. But Frank is a man of his word and he knows that the case will not be vigorously pursued by anyone else in the department, so he enlists the help of Sarah and Maeve to independently pursue the case outside of the Force, as a Private Detective.
This case is by far one of the ghastliest stories I have read in the series. No giggling here and no amusing antics with Mrs. Ellsworth or Felix and Elizbeth Decker.
A predator posts lonely-hearts advertisements in the local newspaper, attracting spinster women with the promise of love and marriage. The women meet their intended in the park and then stroll off with him under the false pretense that he is taking them to meet his mother. The women are then stripped and trapped in cages for sexual bondage. Those who survive after being released are unable and unwilling to talk about their experiences. When one of the women murders her captor and later his fellow tormentor, other women survivors are persuaded to come forward and thwart any effort to bring her to trial, in a plan hatched by Sarah, whereby true justice will prevail.
May 10, 2022
This was a tough read in terms of the mystery plot, but while it was fairly obvious to me who the killer was, I still found it very compelling. I really liked seeing Frank adjust to the changes in his life and how Frank and Sarah are moving their relationship forward ands figuring things out for themselves.
March 16, 2018
This series hasn’t shied away from rape, incest, abuse, etc. but somehow this was the most disturbing of all. Based on the real life crimes, it’s the darkest book in the series so far.
August 17, 2019
Murder on Murray Hill
4 Stars
As news of his sudden inheritance threatens his position in the police department, Detective Frank Malloy investigates the disappearance of a young woman who answered a lonely hearts advertisement and uncovers one of the most heinous crimes imaginable.
Readers expecting a more cozy style mystery may be disappointed a the nature of the crimes is anything but cozy and involves some difficult descriptions of sexual abuse and torture. In this regard, the author's note is 100% right - nothing has changed when it comes to man's capacity for evil and depravity.
There are also some excellent developments in Frank and Sarah's ongoing relationship as they discuss the new direction their lives will take now that they are engaged.
Overall, this is definitely one of the best installments in the series so far.
4 Stars
As news of his sudden inheritance threatens his position in the police department, Detective Frank Malloy investigates the disappearance of a young woman who answered a lonely hearts advertisement and uncovers one of the most heinous crimes imaginable.
Readers expecting a more cozy style mystery may be disappointed a the nature of the crimes is anything but cozy and involves some difficult descriptions of sexual abuse and torture. In this regard, the author's note is 100% right - nothing has changed when it comes to man's capacity for evil and depravity.
There are also some excellent developments in Frank and Sarah's ongoing relationship as they discuss the new direction their lives will take now that they are engaged.
Overall, this is definitely one of the best installments in the series so far.
October 12, 2020
The 15th installment of the Gaslight Mystery series. Thompson does not shy away from hard hitting, tragic, and horrible side of society and human mentality.
Frank is still reeling with his new found inheritance and sense of purpose as he is now basically fired from the police force. He and Sarah have to decide how to proceed in their new start of life together.
One irritation is that Frank does not seem to have much involement with his own son, let alone learning sign language to communciate with him. It's seems like he's a lost character and sad that Sarah doesn't involve him more in their relationship.
I'm not sure what I'll do when I won't be waiting at Sarah' kitchen table with everyone waiting for Mrs. Ellsworth to bring by a cake or pie to discuss the goings on. Keep writing on Thompson.
Frank is still reeling with his new found inheritance and sense of purpose as he is now basically fired from the police force. He and Sarah have to decide how to proceed in their new start of life together.
One irritation is that Frank does not seem to have much involement with his own son, let alone learning sign language to communciate with him. It's seems like he's a lost character and sad that Sarah doesn't involve him more in their relationship.
I'm not sure what I'll do when I won't be waiting at Sarah' kitchen table with everyone waiting for Mrs. Ellsworth to bring by a cake or pie to discuss the goings on. Keep writing on Thompson.
April 22, 2015
Murder in Murray Hill is the sixteenth book in the A Gaslight Mystery series.
Add computers and social networks and this story could have easily been told in the present time. Instead, it is the turn of 20th century New York City and Frank Malloy is interviewing Mr. Livingston, who daughter has gone missing. Malloy goes with Livingston to his residence to see if he might find anything that might provide a clue as to where Grace might have gone. While there he finds some Lonely Hearts advertisements. With the help of his fiancee, Sarah Brandt and her nursemaid, Maeve, they devise a plan to flush out the man. Before they are able to implement it, the police department learns that Malloy will be inheriting a large amount of money and he is let go. This is such a despicable situation, Malloy and Brandt continue with their plan, in hopes of finding Livingston's daughter and returning her to security of her home. Grace is found, but also found is the body of Milo Pendergast, who has been luring these girls into degrading physical abuse. Soon the body of Andy, Pendergast's servant is also found. Brandt and Malloy aren't sure who is responsible for the deaths of Pendergast and Andy, but are going to pursue the investigation until they learn the identity.
Due to the subject matter, I would classify it as a darker cozy. This sensitive subject is handle with compassion and it is skillfully handled with out going to great detail.
Now that the case is handled, maybe Brandt and Malloy will be able to move on with their personal lives. Will definitely be watching for the next book.
Add computers and social networks and this story could have easily been told in the present time. Instead, it is the turn of 20th century New York City and Frank Malloy is interviewing Mr. Livingston, who daughter has gone missing. Malloy goes with Livingston to his residence to see if he might find anything that might provide a clue as to where Grace might have gone. While there he finds some Lonely Hearts advertisements. With the help of his fiancee, Sarah Brandt and her nursemaid, Maeve, they devise a plan to flush out the man. Before they are able to implement it, the police department learns that Malloy will be inheriting a large amount of money and he is let go. This is such a despicable situation, Malloy and Brandt continue with their plan, in hopes of finding Livingston's daughter and returning her to security of her home. Grace is found, but also found is the body of Milo Pendergast, who has been luring these girls into degrading physical abuse. Soon the body of Andy, Pendergast's servant is also found. Brandt and Malloy aren't sure who is responsible for the deaths of Pendergast and Andy, but are going to pursue the investigation until they learn the identity.
Due to the subject matter, I would classify it as a darker cozy. This sensitive subject is handle with compassion and it is skillfully handled with out going to great detail.
Now that the case is handled, maybe Brandt and Malloy will be able to move on with their personal lives. Will definitely be watching for the next book.
August 6, 2015
My grandmother, who was born in the 1880's, died when I was 15 and my Mom was born in 1901--both in NYC. So growing up in Manhattan myself and having heard so many of their stories about growing up in the City, this has been an absolute favorite series of mine. This installment deals with the kidnapping of less than beautiful spinsters by a man who advertises in the Lonely Hearts column of a city newspaper. He is found with his throat slit and one of his victims slumped in a corner of the room drenched in his blood.
Malloy is called to the scene of what turns out to be his last case as a NYC policeman. Indeed, he is removed from the case and the force but is hired by the girl's father to investigate as a private investigator. Many twists and turns and red herrings later the murder is solved and the arrest of the murderer is handled in a very clever and satisfying way.
On another note, Malloy and Mrs Brandt seem to have found a house to which to move once they are married and need to merge their separate families. He has a son and his mother, and Mrs Brandt has a daughter and housemaid. Neither of their present homes is large enough to accommodate them all, but trusty Mrs Ellsworth may have found a place and nearby, too. Sooooo, maybe the wedding will be coming soon.
Can't wait.
Malloy is called to the scene of what turns out to be his last case as a NYC policeman. Indeed, he is removed from the case and the force but is hired by the girl's father to investigate as a private investigator. Many twists and turns and red herrings later the murder is solved and the arrest of the murderer is handled in a very clever and satisfying way.
On another note, Malloy and Mrs Brandt seem to have found a house to which to move once they are married and need to merge their separate families. He has a son and his mother, and Mrs Brandt has a daughter and housemaid. Neither of their present homes is large enough to accommodate them all, but trusty Mrs Ellsworth may have found a place and nearby, too. Sooooo, maybe the wedding will be coming soon.
Can't wait.
June 16, 2017
I really struggled with how to rate this book. As a mystery, it was good, but the subject matter was very difficult to wade through. Interestingly, the murders were not the most abhorrent parts of the story. I thought Thompson did do a fairly good job of mentioning sexual perversions and acts without describing them in detail, and for that I am grateful. Still, I would not recommend this book to anyone without providing strong warnings about the subject matter.
February 21, 2015
to be reviewed
A "new-to-me" series, I picked up the latest installment in the Gaslight mysteries after seeing it was nominated for the 2014 Agatha for Best Historical Novel. I'd heard the author speak at a mystery conference I attended a couple of years ago and have been interested to check out this series ever since. Although I haven't read earlier installments in the series and did feel like it would've helped me appreciate the story more, I still enjoyed this book quite a bit and felt like the author did an excellent job of drawing in enough details from prior books to understand the backstories and characters. While I'd say this is a cozy mystery, it was equally unsettling, dark, and twisty since the plot centered around a serial stalker (and murderer) who preyed on lonely, insecure women. The details of his crimes were chilling and the reader couldn't help but hope that his victims would be able to see that justice was done for the horrible things he did to them. Even though the book is set in New York in the late 1800s, the story still resonated and was, sadly, relevant to today's society. As I read the book, I was reminded of the fairly recent news story about the women who were held captive in Ohio. And after reading the author's note at the end, I learned that news story was inspiration for the plot in this one. If this offering was indicative of the earlier books in the series, this series will definitely be on my "to read" list. The two main characters, Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy and midwife Sarah Brandt, are characters I'd like to get to know more and hope to get a chance to do so soon.
A "new-to-me" series, I picked up the latest installment in the Gaslight mysteries after seeing it was nominated for the 2014 Agatha for Best Historical Novel. I'd heard the author speak at a mystery conference I attended a couple of years ago and have been interested to check out this series ever since. Although I haven't read earlier installments in the series and did feel like it would've helped me appreciate the story more, I still enjoyed this book quite a bit and felt like the author did an excellent job of drawing in enough details from prior books to understand the backstories and characters. While I'd say this is a cozy mystery, it was equally unsettling, dark, and twisty since the plot centered around a serial stalker (and murderer) who preyed on lonely, insecure women. The details of his crimes were chilling and the reader couldn't help but hope that his victims would be able to see that justice was done for the horrible things he did to them. Even though the book is set in New York in the late 1800s, the story still resonated and was, sadly, relevant to today's society. As I read the book, I was reminded of the fairly recent news story about the women who were held captive in Ohio. And after reading the author's note at the end, I learned that news story was inspiration for the plot in this one. If this offering was indicative of the earlier books in the series, this series will definitely be on my "to read" list. The two main characters, Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy and midwife Sarah Brandt, are characters I'd like to get to know more and hope to get a chance to do so soon.
April 21, 2017
It was hard to follow up Murder in Chelsea but this one did a decent job of it.
I loved all the character and story development that took place in this book. There were times in this series that it seemed the character arcs were basically creeping along. This sped things up for sure.
I really enjoyed the mystery and didn’t know who the killer was until the end. The other thing I really liked was that the book covered topics relevant today. The mystery could have been taken out of the ten o’clock news but of course with historical twists.
This series is great to read and I love where things are going.
I loved all the character and story development that took place in this book. There were times in this series that it seemed the character arcs were basically creeping along. This sped things up for sure.
I really enjoyed the mystery and didn’t know who the killer was until the end. The other thing I really liked was that the book covered topics relevant today. The mystery could have been taken out of the ten o’clock news but of course with historical twists.
This series is great to read and I love where things are going.
April 1, 2023
As I have said in other reviews for this series, I choose to read these books when my reading fair starts to get too dark and I need a little relief. Cozy Mysteries are my "safe zone" go-to. That being said, this book in the series was almost too dark for me after reading the triggering Sundial. In this book Sarah and Frank look for a missing woman and stumble onto a human trafficking ring. No one is sorry to see the murders committed in this book, and finding the women and making sure they are OK, is more of the focus of this book.
August 12, 2019
This series is so engrossing that I can't wait to start on the next one. The fact that a lot of what went on back then is still happening today. The way men (not all thank goodness) treat women and how some think they are just play things and are to be taken advantage of. The research that the author does and the way she writs about New York and the people of that time period pleases me in that I know when I start one of her books I can picture it in my mind.
November 22, 2019
This was one of of most disturbing mysteries of the series, but I still enjoyed it.
May 10, 2014
The subject was tough to read but I couldn't stop reading because I had to know what happened. I am a fan of this series and the main characters. I'll be back for the next book.
September 16, 2016
This was a bit more dark and twisted than I expected, and it's not my preference to read about perverts. It felt akin to an "Anne Perry" novel to me.
May 28, 2019
I can't bring myself to stop reading this series! I thought it would be easy but I'm really hooked with the characters, the mysteries and the era in which they take place!
The mystery part was interesting and I enjoyed it but the resolution wasn't very satisfactory!
The story of the women who were trying to find a purpose and love in their lives only to be cheated and abused was so sad but it's something that we can find even in the present days!
Little Catherine made my heart melt with how she formed with her dollhouse the family she dreamed of!
Sarah and Frank finally engaged could steal some moments of romance which stole my heart with how sweet they were! I wouldn't complain if I got more of them!
I have only a few instalments left before I end the series and I don't want it to end! I've read ten books in a row and I didn't got tired of the stories and the characters! Victoria Thompson has done a good job!
The mystery part was interesting and I enjoyed it but the resolution wasn't very satisfactory!
The story of the women who were trying to find a purpose and love in their lives only to be cheated and abused was so sad but it's something that we can find even in the present days!
Little Catherine made my heart melt with how she formed with her dollhouse the family she dreamed of!
Sarah and Frank finally engaged could steal some moments of romance which stole my heart with how sweet they were! I wouldn't complain if I got more of them!
I have only a few instalments left before I end the series and I don't want it to end! I've read ten books in a row and I didn't got tired of the stories and the characters! Victoria Thompson has done a good job!
January 21, 2024
This is the 16th book in the series and the books in this series get better and better.
The focus of the books has changed away from the issues surrounding midwifery towards crimes against women.
The relationship and romance between Sarah and Malloy continues to develop.
The books are set in 1800s New York, but could have been set in the present day, the crimes and injustices against women haven’t changed.
The focus of the books has changed away from the issues surrounding midwifery towards crimes against women.
The relationship and romance between Sarah and Malloy continues to develop.
The books are set in 1800s New York, but could have been set in the present day, the crimes and injustices against women haven’t changed.
August 8, 2014
3.5 stars
Don't let the period setting fool you, this series does not shy away from depicting some truly horrific crimes. And so it is that Sarah Brandt and Frank Malloy, now finally betrothed, find themselves once again facing man's darker nature. The mystery, setting, and characters are all top notch once again, cementing this series as my second favorite historical mystery series (the Sebastian St Cyr books by C.S. Harris take first place). I am deducting half a star only because, after the momentous life-changing event that happened in the last book I was expecting to see Sarah and Frank spend a little more time alone in this book. But I expect that there will be plenty of time for that in books to come as the author has promised that married life will not deter Sarah and Frank from solving crimes together. Because as genuine as the setting feels and as wonderfully plotted as the mysteries are, it is the characters and how they relate to each other through the highs and lows of life that really keeps me coming back for more. So while I look forward to seeing Sarah and Frank continue to solve murders, I am chomping at the bit to see this blended family come together into one, stronger whole.
Don't let the period setting fool you, this series does not shy away from depicting some truly horrific crimes. And so it is that Sarah Brandt and Frank Malloy, now finally betrothed, find themselves once again facing man's darker nature. The mystery, setting, and characters are all top notch once again, cementing this series as my second favorite historical mystery series (the Sebastian St Cyr books by C.S. Harris take first place). I am deducting half a star only because, after the momentous life-changing event that happened in the last book I was expecting to see Sarah and Frank spend a little more time alone in this book. But I expect that there will be plenty of time for that in books to come as the author has promised that married life will not deter Sarah and Frank from solving crimes together. Because as genuine as the setting feels and as wonderfully plotted as the mysteries are, it is the characters and how they relate to each other through the highs and lows of life that really keeps me coming back for more. So while I look forward to seeing Sarah and Frank continue to solve murders, I am chomping at the bit to see this blended family come together into one, stronger whole.
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