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Dr. Alexandra Gladstone #1
Symptoms of Death
When the old country doctor of Newton-upon-Sea passed away, he left his daughter Alexandra the secrets of his trade. Now, the village depends on its lady-doctor Gladstone for its births, deaths, and all the inconveniences inbetween.
At a small gathering at Dunsford Hall, every guest seems in possession of a title, land-and a secret vendetta against the host. And so, when their "dear Eddie" is found murdered in his own bed, the lords and ladies point to a helpless servant and flee the scene. But Dr. Alexandra Gladstone finds evidence in her autopsy suggesting otherwise. And the not-so-noble reactions to her inquiries have the good doctor wondering if she hasn't struck a nerve.
At a small gathering at Dunsford Hall, every guest seems in possession of a title, land-and a secret vendetta against the host. And so, when their "dear Eddie" is found murdered in his own bed, the lords and ladies point to a helpless servant and flee the scene. But Dr. Alexandra Gladstone finds evidence in her autopsy suggesting otherwise. And the not-so-noble reactions to her inquiries have the good doctor wondering if she hasn't struck a nerve.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2002
12 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Paula Paul
28 books43 followersPaula Paul writes novels that touch the heart and challenge the mind. She has published 25 novels, some with major New York publishers and some with small presses. They include historical fiction, mysteries, YA and literary novels.
She is a native of Texas. She wasn't really born in Lubbock, as her profile info states. She was actually born outside of Lubbock on her grandparents' farm. She grew up on a ranch about 80 miles from where she was born and attended a country school where she graduated as valedictorian.
She has a degree in journalism and worked for several years as a print journalist, winning a number of state and national awards. She has also won national awards for her novels.
She is a native of Texas. She wasn't really born in Lubbock, as her profile info states. She was actually born outside of Lubbock on her grandparents' farm. She grew up on a ranch about 80 miles from where she was born and attended a country school where she graduated as valedictorian.
She has a degree in journalism and worked for several years as a print journalist, winning a number of state and national awards. She has also won national awards for her novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 4, 2016
What better way to relax than to read a good old-fashioned mystery? The setting is a Victorian country estate. Edward Boswick, Fifth Earl of Dunsford (known as Eddie to his friends) invites a small circle of associates up for the weekend. At dinner a hysterical kitchen maid attacks him with a knife. Dr. Gladstone is one of the guests (the obligatory prominent local in attendance), and intervenes while everyone else looks on in paralyzed shock. It's a double violation of decorum, for Dr. Gladstone is a woman. She quiets the girl, disarms her, and after apparently sedating her, discreetly slips away. The next morning, the Earl is found murdered in his bed, and the kitchen maid, Elsie, is the prime suspect. However, it turns out that Eddie's nobility was limited to his title. Blackmail and cheating were only a couple of his vices, and several of his guests had strong motives for murdering him. They are therefore happy to see the blame fall on the hapless Elsie O'Riley (strike 3: not only is she a servant who attacked her master, but she's Irish!)
The charm of this genteel mystery lies with the likeabity of the three main characters. Alexandra Gladstone is a physician who has taken over the practice of her late father, who oversaw her education. The advantages of such a life-long internship are obvious. She makes her rounds astride the steady mare Lucy and at home enjoys the companionship of her protective 150 lb. Newfoundland, Zack. Her maid is a jill-of-all-trades named Nancy. Nancy was also her childhood companion, so beneath the contrite “Yes, Miss” responses are strong-willed opinions and shrewd observations about human behavior. She is also not shy about seizing all opportunities for eavesdropping. So strong is Nancy's will that Dr. Gladstone is often forced to sneak around her own house in order to avoid a confrontation with the unreticent Nancy. The third character in this entertaining mix is Nicholas Forsythe, a comfortably well-off London barrister. It goes without saying that he is handsome, but he is also sufficiently curious to be interesting. After the unfortunate dinner party incident, a tableaux of normality proceeds — women exit to exchange social gossip, and men remain for port and a smoke. Nicholas notes: “Even a mad woman would not deter an English gentleman from the tradition of port and cigars after dinner.” (p.6) He is attracted to Dr. Gladstone by her quick-thinking and competence. However, this being Victorian England, he makes his initial approach by feigning interest in Dr. Gladstone's ministrations to Elsie. He makes an early morning visit to Dr. Gladstone before anyone is aware that Eddie has been murdered. She is puzzled by the early morning visit in a way that Nancy is not: “Say what you like, but he didn't come here concerned about a scullery maid. It was you that got him here.” (p.18)
The plot is sufficiently involved to hold the reader's interest and includes a few glimpses into issues such as class distinctions and poverty. Despite only circumstantial evidence, it is clear that Elsie will be found guilty. Meanwhile, as Dr. Gladstone makes her rounds, we learn she is frequently required to render her services on a quasi-charitable basis. Many of the cottagers are reluctant to seek her out even when on the brink of death for fear they cannot pay her modest fees. However, the period setting is supported primarily by vivid descriptions of costume and furnishings.
Although even I figured out 'who dunnit' well before the ending, I anticipate that this is the first book in a promising series. I hope we see much more of Nancy in the stories to follow. I took notice of this book after my husband mentioned he had apparently met the author. I look forward to reading other books in the series.
NOTES:
Interview with the author can be found on http://www.southwestwriters.com/an-in...
The charm of this genteel mystery lies with the likeabity of the three main characters. Alexandra Gladstone is a physician who has taken over the practice of her late father, who oversaw her education. The advantages of such a life-long internship are obvious. She makes her rounds astride the steady mare Lucy and at home enjoys the companionship of her protective 150 lb. Newfoundland, Zack. Her maid is a jill-of-all-trades named Nancy. Nancy was also her childhood companion, so beneath the contrite “Yes, Miss” responses are strong-willed opinions and shrewd observations about human behavior. She is also not shy about seizing all opportunities for eavesdropping. So strong is Nancy's will that Dr. Gladstone is often forced to sneak around her own house in order to avoid a confrontation with the unreticent Nancy. The third character in this entertaining mix is Nicholas Forsythe, a comfortably well-off London barrister. It goes without saying that he is handsome, but he is also sufficiently curious to be interesting. After the unfortunate dinner party incident, a tableaux of normality proceeds — women exit to exchange social gossip, and men remain for port and a smoke. Nicholas notes: “Even a mad woman would not deter an English gentleman from the tradition of port and cigars after dinner.” (p.6) He is attracted to Dr. Gladstone by her quick-thinking and competence. However, this being Victorian England, he makes his initial approach by feigning interest in Dr. Gladstone's ministrations to Elsie. He makes an early morning visit to Dr. Gladstone before anyone is aware that Eddie has been murdered. She is puzzled by the early morning visit in a way that Nancy is not: “Say what you like, but he didn't come here concerned about a scullery maid. It was you that got him here.” (p.18)
The plot is sufficiently involved to hold the reader's interest and includes a few glimpses into issues such as class distinctions and poverty. Despite only circumstantial evidence, it is clear that Elsie will be found guilty. Meanwhile, as Dr. Gladstone makes her rounds, we learn she is frequently required to render her services on a quasi-charitable basis. Many of the cottagers are reluctant to seek her out even when on the brink of death for fear they cannot pay her modest fees. However, the period setting is supported primarily by vivid descriptions of costume and furnishings.
Although even I figured out 'who dunnit' well before the ending, I anticipate that this is the first book in a promising series. I hope we see much more of Nancy in the stories to follow. I took notice of this book after my husband mentioned he had apparently met the author. I look forward to reading other books in the series.
NOTES:
Interview with the author can be found on http://www.southwestwriters.com/an-in...
October 23, 2021
In SYMPTOMS OF DEATH, we meet Dr. Alexandra Gladstone, her maid and friend since childhood Nancy, and her bear-size dog Zachariah, mostly called Zach. Set in Victorian Era England, in the town of Newton-Upon-Sea, which is a several-hours carriage ride from London, and seems to have a population that ranges from street urchins to Lords and Ladies of the manner. One other character, Nicholas Forsythe, a barrister, has the potential to become a regular character of the series.
There is an emphasis on the social caste system, with its airs and proprieties, one would expect of this time period. Alexandra's road to becoming a physician started with tutoring at home since she could not attend school, being allowed to attend only some medical school lectures, and having the gap in her education filled by her father, Dr. Huntington Gladstone… all due to her gender.
I am generally a fan of the Victorian mystery, especially those with strong female protagonists, but somehow, this one falls just a tad short of expectations. I can't quite put my finger on the problem because the plot holds up quite well and the characters are varied and interesting. It is one of those books that isn't a turnoff, but it doesn't engender a strong need to keep on reading the series. That being said, I will be reading the next book in the series.
As I read more and more about this time in history, both fiction and non-fiction, I can't help but look at the state of the world today and see that the roots of modern divisiveness can be traced in a straight line back to the Victorians. It may not have started with them, and probably didn't) but the male-dominated society is on display front and center.
There is an emphasis on the social caste system, with its airs and proprieties, one would expect of this time period. Alexandra's road to becoming a physician started with tutoring at home since she could not attend school, being allowed to attend only some medical school lectures, and having the gap in her education filled by her father, Dr. Huntington Gladstone… all due to her gender.
I am generally a fan of the Victorian mystery, especially those with strong female protagonists, but somehow, this one falls just a tad short of expectations. I can't quite put my finger on the problem because the plot holds up quite well and the characters are varied and interesting. It is one of those books that isn't a turnoff, but it doesn't engender a strong need to keep on reading the series. That being said, I will be reading the next book in the series.
As I read more and more about this time in history, both fiction and non-fiction, I can't help but look at the state of the world today and see that the roots of modern divisiveness can be traced in a straight line back to the Victorians. It may not have started with them, and probably didn't) but the male-dominated society is on display front and center.
January 8, 2011
December is always a busy month and there's nothing better than a light, entertaining historical read to pass the time. The abundance of mysteries of the cosy variety that has appeared recently have made that one of my favourite genres for when I want to be entertained but not think too much. This time my choice was the first in the Dra Alexandra Gladstone Mysteries by Paula Paul.
The book is set, I believe, in Victorian England during a house party at the Earl of Dunsford's country estate. Dra Alexandra Gladstone is called upon to attend to a young maid who has apparently tried to murder the Earl believing him to be the killer of her lover. Alexandra tends to the girl and makes her go to her room believing her to be harmless but the next morning the Earl is dead and the girl, Elsie, has disappeared.
Alexandra is somewhat of a rarity, a female doctor when females weren't allowed to study medicine. Paul explains that by having her been taught at home by her father and well accepted in the village because everyone knows since she was a girl. To tell the truth Alexandra sounds a bit too sensible to be true in a Victorian heroine but I could deal with that.
Earl Dunsford's guests don't waste time in blaming the doctor for not having drugged the girl, and stopped her from murder, but Alexandra quickly realises that the earl was not stabbed, as the girl was threatening, but strangled which would imply someone stronger. With the help of Mr. Forsythe, one of the Earl's guests, Alexandra decides to try to find out what really happened. Soon it is apparent that the earl wasn't exactly a nice person and that more than one of his guests could have a motive for murder.
The appearance of several "ghosts", and walks in the foggy night, does give the story a bit of a gothic look and I couldn't help thinking that sometimes Alexandra was a bit too daring. In one of those I was so engaged in the story and waiting for something to happen that I immediately deduced who the murderer was... and in the end I was proven right.
So if you are in the mood for something light, fast paced and with a bit of a gothic feel this might just be the book for you!
Grade: 4/5
The book is set, I believe, in Victorian England during a house party at the Earl of Dunsford's country estate. Dra Alexandra Gladstone is called upon to attend to a young maid who has apparently tried to murder the Earl believing him to be the killer of her lover. Alexandra tends to the girl and makes her go to her room believing her to be harmless but the next morning the Earl is dead and the girl, Elsie, has disappeared.
Alexandra is somewhat of a rarity, a female doctor when females weren't allowed to study medicine. Paul explains that by having her been taught at home by her father and well accepted in the village because everyone knows since she was a girl. To tell the truth Alexandra sounds a bit too sensible to be true in a Victorian heroine but I could deal with that.
Earl Dunsford's guests don't waste time in blaming the doctor for not having drugged the girl, and stopped her from murder, but Alexandra quickly realises that the earl was not stabbed, as the girl was threatening, but strangled which would imply someone stronger. With the help of Mr. Forsythe, one of the Earl's guests, Alexandra decides to try to find out what really happened. Soon it is apparent that the earl wasn't exactly a nice person and that more than one of his guests could have a motive for murder.
The appearance of several "ghosts", and walks in the foggy night, does give the story a bit of a gothic look and I couldn't help thinking that sometimes Alexandra was a bit too daring. In one of those I was so engaged in the story and waiting for something to happen that I immediately deduced who the murderer was... and in the end I was proven right.
So if you are in the mood for something light, fast paced and with a bit of a gothic feel this might just be the book for you!
Grade: 4/5
August 29, 2014
I was pleasantly surprised by this Kindle freebie. A light, cozy historical mystery first published in 2002, now re-issued as an ebook by the author. There isn't much in historical setup or background. In fact at times it felt I was reading an episode of Dr. Quinn, set in the English countryside instead of the American West and with a mix of aristocrats, servants and thugs instead of indians and pionieers. Sully, the mountain men is Nicholas, the barrister who teams up with female doctor Alexandra Gladstone to solve the murder of the Earl of Dunsford. There is a hint of a developing romance, but to see if I'm right about that I'll have to read book 2 in the series and I am tempted to do just that.
All in all a quick and easy read.
All in all a quick and easy read.
June 7, 2025
AlexandraGladstone is the daughter of the old country doctor of Newton -Upon -Sea. Though she couldn’t formally study medicine he taught and trained her and upon his passing she took over his practice. Though the local nobility finds this to be a trifle different. They do not snub her in society as her father treated most of them at one time or another. This is how she finds herself invited to dinner at the country home of Edward Boswick Fifth Earl of Dunsford .Along with a handful of other wealthy and titled friends of his. Notably Jeremy Atewater and his wife Isabel Nicholas Forsythe a top barrister and Lord Henery Scargrave fourth earl of Winningham. Their evening comes to an abrupt end when scullery maid Elisie O Riley bursts into the dining room brandishing a weapon and threatening Edward believing he caused the demise of her fiancée. Dr. Gladstone calms her and the evening ends. Things turn bad the next morning when it is discovered that Eddie met his demise that night Elsie is blamed but Alexandra isn’t convinced she is guilty. She and Mr. Forsythe set out to find the culprit and free the innocent Elsie. They discover that the calculating Earl knew his friend’s darkest secrets. Now they just have to figure out which one would stoop to murder to keep him quiet. Soon they both find themselves in danger as they try to solve this mystery in the once quiet Seaside town. A slow paced regency mystery. If you enjoy a slow building mystery you may enjoy this one.
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June 2, 2020Dr. Alexandra Gladstone is a rare, female doctor in 1880's England. She's taken over her father's village practice after his death, and finds herself caught up in a murder mystery. When an Earl is murdered and a knife-wielding maid disappears, Dr. Gladstone and her dinner companion are the only two to believe in the maid's innocence. The pair seek to aid the maid and find the real murderer in this series debut.
I did enjoy this novel by Paula Paul. It wasn't my favorite, ever, but it was a good read. There were some unexpected twists, and the characters were interesting.
I did grow tired of Dr. Gladstone, herself, after a while, because she's so stereotypically tough. She's been challenged a lot as a woman in her career, and in practicing in the same town she grew up in, which has given her a logical and not-to-be-messed-with attitude. However, she never drops that attitude and is always insisting that she's fine, doesn't need help, and remains cooly detatched from any situation, even emotional ones in her private life. I'd like to see a little more character development in her to reassure myself that she's not a robot.
Read my full review at samiamreadingandreviewing.wordpress.com.
I did enjoy this novel by Paula Paul. It wasn't my favorite, ever, but it was a good read. There were some unexpected twists, and the characters were interesting.
I did grow tired of Dr. Gladstone, herself, after a while, because she's so stereotypically tough. She's been challenged a lot as a woman in her career, and in practicing in the same town she grew up in, which has given her a logical and not-to-be-messed-with attitude. However, she never drops that attitude and is always insisting that she's fine, doesn't need help, and remains cooly detatched from any situation, even emotional ones in her private life. I'd like to see a little more character development in her to reassure myself that she's not a robot.
Read my full review at samiamreadingandreviewing.wordpress.com.
April 24, 2025
"Edward Boswick, Fifth Earl of Dunsford, hosted a small gathering of friends at his country estate, including the village's lady-doctor, Alexandria Gladstone. The noblest of the noble, each of his intimates was in possession of title, land -- and a secret vendetta against his host. And so, when their 'dear Eddie' is found murdered in his own bed, the lords and ladies point to a helpless servant-- and flee . . .
"But when Dr. Gladstone finds evidence suggesting otherwise in her autopsy of the late earl, she begins to wonder if the noblesse 'doth protest too much.' And when her inquiries lead her in a web of scandal and deceit, the good doctor wonders if she hasn't struck a nerve . . . "
~~back cover
"But when Dr. Gladstone finds evidence suggesting otherwise in her autopsy of the late earl, she begins to wonder if the noblesse 'doth protest too much.' And when her inquiries lead her in a web of scandal and deceit, the good doctor wonders if she hasn't struck a nerve . . . "
~~back cover
June 17, 2019
I ventured down the road of yet another female historical mystery. I really do love them.
Dr Alexandra became a doctor (not a normal thing for her era) at the elbow of her father, the town's long time doctor. When her father died she took of the practice for her small town.
Nobles gather at a local mansion and the owner of the mansion is found dead in his bed the morning after a large dinner. It seems everyone at the mansion has a reason to see this man dead. Can Dr Gladstone unravel the clues to find out who the real murderer might be.
Dr Alexandra became a doctor (not a normal thing for her era) at the elbow of her father, the town's long time doctor. When her father died she took of the practice for her small town.
Nobles gather at a local mansion and the owner of the mansion is found dead in his bed the morning after a large dinner. It seems everyone at the mansion has a reason to see this man dead. Can Dr Gladstone unravel the clues to find out who the real murderer might be.
November 14, 2017
First of a promising series
A female doctor is a novelty for a historical mystery series, and Dr. Alexandra Gladstone doesn't disappoint the reader by being too anachronistic for the time frame.
The mystery is solid and would be classified as a cozy if set in contemporary times.
I quite enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more of the series.
A female doctor is a novelty for a historical mystery series, and Dr. Alexandra Gladstone doesn't disappoint the reader by being too anachronistic for the time frame.
The mystery is solid and would be classified as a cozy if set in contemporary times.
I quite enjoyed the book and look forward to reading more of the series.
October 14, 2019
A generally really good historical mystery. I did think that this would be cozier than it was. The book does deal with poverty in the 19th century in a pretty graphic way, including discussing sexual assault. I liked the heroine and I would read more in the series, but I would go in expecting a little more violence.
April 15, 2020
I listened to the audiobook from the library. This historical fiction murder mystery was a nice little read. The main character is a female physician who thinks outside the box, and she solves the crime by paying attention to details. Recommended.
November 22, 2017
I wouldn't really want to have lived in the Victorian Age, but If I had I would certainly have wanted Dr. Gladstone as a friend. The series is off to a great start; can't wait to read more.
January 29, 2018
Audiobook performed by Jessica Osbourne
May 11, 2018
The author should probably be told that poison ivy does not grow in England and never has....
June 23, 2020
A great start to a very enjoyable series. I’ve been rereading the series during the pandemic and invite you to join me. Your time spent with the Doctor and her friends will be most enjoyable.
December 4, 2016
Loved the dog.
December 31, 2014
This period murder mystery set in the Victorian period in a small English Community really sets the mark! From the story line to the narration done in true British prompt and circumstance. This book by Paula Paul is a start to a strong character of Dr. Alexandra Gladstone the town’s doctor.
The story starts out as those typical end of the season English dinner parties put on by the fifth Earl of Dunsford, Edward Boswick. A young kitchen maid comes screaming out after the Earl accusing him of killing her friend. Dr. Gladstone a guest reaches out to calm the girl down. However, the next morning the earl is found dead in his bed. The kitchen maid is missing. Now the mystery is now set.
The next day the doctor is called upon the Barrister and distant relative of the Earl, Nicholas Forsythe the man to whom helped with the deterring the maid from stabbing the Earl and himself as he is thanking her. The constable has sent his man to have them both to the murder scene. Based on the evidence before him is convinced that the maid has done it. Upon examination of the scene Dr. Gladstone is determine the cause of death was not done by the maid. It looked as if the Earl was killed by a knife however the knife just misses the heart. So the knife that the maid wheeled the night before was not the murder weapon. She notices that the Earl was strangled first and then stab as an afterthought to make it look like the maid did it. Feeling strongly that she is right puts herself in detective mode when Constable Snow is not convinced she is right. Throughout the story you will also meet other characters that play an important role and Dr. Gladstone's dog Zack, an Irish Wolfhound that is her constant companion and protector.
Dr. Gladstones' maid Nancy who is strongly opinionated and a good friend tells her that she is completely against her doing any hunting about on her own after being attacked. Nick agrees with her maid has agreed to take her on her rounds as her protection. On one of her rounds her one client makes a comment to her, "That even the dead still walk among the living". What does this mean? Until she is told repeatedly by others seeing the ghost of both decease. The Dr. Gladstone sees the ghost herself. Or was it? The maid who is finally found and arrested. Before her hearing and time runs out Dr. Gladstone and Nick really step up the pace to find the killer.
Who is out to get Dr. Gladstone out of the way? Is she on the right track? Who is the surprising killer? The Maid? One of the guest? This mystery will keep you guessing all the way to the end and when the mystery is solved during the maids hearing the answer comes to Dr. Gladstone. Leaving the hearing and placing herself in contempt for leaving when it was her turn for testifying. She puts herself back into danger till the truth is revealed and she is rescued by Nick.
The narrator Jessica Osbourne did a lovely job of the voices throughout the novel. I really enjoyed the British accent and her change up between female and male parts. I feel the tone throughout match the scene that was going on. I would listen to other books that she is narrating with confidence that she would do a good job. I feel that the production by Siren Audio Studios of this book performance was dead on! (Sorry for the pun). It held my attention from start to finish! I assure you will be as well!
The cover I felt really did not portray what is a mystery look. It is nice and not sure how I would change it. Maybe the addition of the knife wrapped with the strangulation item used. Typeface I do like it and feels it does fit the time period.
Note: This review was posted to Audio Book Reviewer, Goodreads, Amazon, Audible, BN.com and ITunes. The Book was provided for review by Audio Book Reviewer. All views are strictly mine and not in any way influenced by others. Thank you for your time reading this and comments are always welcome about my review of this book!
The story starts out as those typical end of the season English dinner parties put on by the fifth Earl of Dunsford, Edward Boswick. A young kitchen maid comes screaming out after the Earl accusing him of killing her friend. Dr. Gladstone a guest reaches out to calm the girl down. However, the next morning the earl is found dead in his bed. The kitchen maid is missing. Now the mystery is now set.
The next day the doctor is called upon the Barrister and distant relative of the Earl, Nicholas Forsythe the man to whom helped with the deterring the maid from stabbing the Earl and himself as he is thanking her. The constable has sent his man to have them both to the murder scene. Based on the evidence before him is convinced that the maid has done it. Upon examination of the scene Dr. Gladstone is determine the cause of death was not done by the maid. It looked as if the Earl was killed by a knife however the knife just misses the heart. So the knife that the maid wheeled the night before was not the murder weapon. She notices that the Earl was strangled first and then stab as an afterthought to make it look like the maid did it. Feeling strongly that she is right puts herself in detective mode when Constable Snow is not convinced she is right. Throughout the story you will also meet other characters that play an important role and Dr. Gladstone's dog Zack, an Irish Wolfhound that is her constant companion and protector.
Dr. Gladstones' maid Nancy who is strongly opinionated and a good friend tells her that she is completely against her doing any hunting about on her own after being attacked. Nick agrees with her maid has agreed to take her on her rounds as her protection. On one of her rounds her one client makes a comment to her, "That even the dead still walk among the living". What does this mean? Until she is told repeatedly by others seeing the ghost of both decease. The Dr. Gladstone sees the ghost herself. Or was it? The maid who is finally found and arrested. Before her hearing and time runs out Dr. Gladstone and Nick really step up the pace to find the killer.
Who is out to get Dr. Gladstone out of the way? Is she on the right track? Who is the surprising killer? The Maid? One of the guest? This mystery will keep you guessing all the way to the end and when the mystery is solved during the maids hearing the answer comes to Dr. Gladstone. Leaving the hearing and placing herself in contempt for leaving when it was her turn for testifying. She puts herself back into danger till the truth is revealed and she is rescued by Nick.
The narrator Jessica Osbourne did a lovely job of the voices throughout the novel. I really enjoyed the British accent and her change up between female and male parts. I feel the tone throughout match the scene that was going on. I would listen to other books that she is narrating with confidence that she would do a good job. I feel that the production by Siren Audio Studios of this book performance was dead on! (Sorry for the pun). It held my attention from start to finish! I assure you will be as well!
The cover I felt really did not portray what is a mystery look. It is nice and not sure how I would change it. Maybe the addition of the knife wrapped with the strangulation item used. Typeface I do like it and feels it does fit the time period.
Note: This review was posted to Audio Book Reviewer, Goodreads, Amazon, Audible, BN.com and ITunes. The Book was provided for review by Audio Book Reviewer. All views are strictly mine and not in any way influenced by others. Thank you for your time reading this and comments are always welcome about my review of this book!
October 12, 2013
This is the beginning of what may be an interesting series based during the Victorian era in England. Dr. Alexandra Gladstone follows in her father's footsteps as a doctor in a small English community. Of course, it is unlikely that a woman could be a doctor during this era but she has been trained by her father who was well respected in the community. Her assistant and best friend is Nancy, with whom she grew up, and her faithful companion is Zack, a Newfoundland dog, who protects the doctor.
The scenario is this: A wealthy man is murdered in his home after a maid crashes his party waving and knife and vowing to kill him. Of course, she is arrested and charged with his murder. However, as the author unfolds events it appears that at least three people have motives which could propel any one of them to kill their host. Dr. Gladstone seeks to discover the truth and save the young maid. The story is well written, easy to read and suggests romance may be found in future novels of the series. However, my favorite character was Zack.
My rating of mysteries is based on whether or not I can determine the murderer before the author reveals her/his identity. Since I was able to do so in this novel it rated only three stars for me. Perhaps I've read too many mysteries!
The scenario is this: A wealthy man is murdered in his home after a maid crashes his party waving and knife and vowing to kill him. Of course, she is arrested and charged with his murder. However, as the author unfolds events it appears that at least three people have motives which could propel any one of them to kill their host. Dr. Gladstone seeks to discover the truth and save the young maid. The story is well written, easy to read and suggests romance may be found in future novels of the series. However, my favorite character was Zack.
My rating of mysteries is based on whether or not I can determine the murderer before the author reveals her/his identity. Since I was able to do so in this novel it rated only three stars for me. Perhaps I've read too many mysteries!
March 1, 2016
The story takes place in Victorian times. Doctor Alexandra Gladstone has replaced her father as the physician for Newton-upon-Sea. While attending a dinner, Elsie, a young kitchen maid runs into the dining room ranting and waving a kitchen knife. She blames Lord of Dunford for killing her lover, George. The next morning, the Lord is found dead and Elsie is to blame.
While investigating the death, Alexandra gets a note to meet Quince, the leader of a bunch of ruffians. The note says she is to meet him at the pier after dark. Quince is there waiting for her but soon after see arrives, someone jumps them and Alexandra’s dog, Zack is injured. The following morning, two boys arrive at the surgery in need of medical attention for dog bites. Alexandra knows the boys are the same ones involved in the scuffle the night before. She believes they know something that would put them in danger.
The day of Elsie’s trial arrives and the murderer still has not be identified. Time is running out for Alexandra to figure it out. This is the first book in the Alexandra Gladstone mystery series. I enjoy the author’s writing style. Several times, I thought I knew who did it only to find out I was wrong.
While investigating the death, Alexandra gets a note to meet Quince, the leader of a bunch of ruffians. The note says she is to meet him at the pier after dark. Quince is there waiting for her but soon after see arrives, someone jumps them and Alexandra’s dog, Zack is injured. The following morning, two boys arrive at the surgery in need of medical attention for dog bites. Alexandra knows the boys are the same ones involved in the scuffle the night before. She believes they know something that would put them in danger.
The day of Elsie’s trial arrives and the murderer still has not be identified. Time is running out for Alexandra to figure it out. This is the first book in the Alexandra Gladstone mystery series. I enjoy the author’s writing style. Several times, I thought I knew who did it only to find out I was wrong.
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May 15, 2016This works easily as a standalone novel. The author has done an excellent job in crafting the characters. The plot is compelling with the right amount of twists and turns to keep the reader turning the pages. The author blended historical facts of the difficulties a woman doctor would have come across during that time period. The author does an excellent job of writing Dr. Gladstone as a woman of her time experiencing those difficulties because of her gender, yet strong and determined enough to weather through them regardless.
There is a bit of humor mixed in with the seriousness of murder to make this story enjoyable and the characters very likeable. Though the characters and their relationships are still a work in progress they are developed enough at this point that readers can easily connect. I have to say that I really liked Nicholas a lot and hope that Alexandra will give into the attraction between them in spite of the difference in their social status.
The writing well done and I am interested in reading the other novels in this series. I recommend this for those who like historical mysteries. It was a quick yet thoroughly enjoyable read.
There is a bit of humor mixed in with the seriousness of murder to make this story enjoyable and the characters very likeable. Though the characters and their relationships are still a work in progress they are developed enough at this point that readers can easily connect. I have to say that I really liked Nicholas a lot and hope that Alexandra will give into the attraction between them in spite of the difference in their social status.
The writing well done and I am interested in reading the other novels in this series. I recommend this for those who like historical mysteries. It was a quick yet thoroughly enjoyable read.
February 5, 2017
This was a quite enjoyable historical mystery. With good characters and no shortage of suspects of possible suspects, I wasn't able to figure out "who done it" (which is nice). This was a quick, easy read, or in my case, listen. The narrator of the audiobook was excellent and did a great job varying her voices. The only issue I had with the audio was the production itself; it was very "cheesy"- playing music between chapter sections and between the chapters themselves. They also played background music during one scene when the characters are dancing. Other than those oddities, the audio was very good. Oddly enough, I couldn't find it on Audible (at least in the U.S.), but was able to find it through my library in e-audio format. (Try Hoopla through your local library for any U.S. readers interested in the audio.) This is the only book in the series on audio. The series is promising though, so would be worth pursuing in print format.
August 17, 2015
I enjoyed this first novel in a series following Dr. Alexandra Gladstone, a fictional pioneering female physician. I got the fourth novel on an e-book deal and was then compelled to read the first three. Dr. Gladstone was taught by her physician father in a time when women were not allowed to go to school to become physicians. Upon his death she has become the town doctor with mixed reception. In this story a murder has taken place and through her medical knowledge Dr. Gladstone knows the case is not as cut and dried as many would like to believe. With the help of Nicholas Forsythe, a barrister and houseguest of the deceased, Alexandra must find the murderer, track down a ghost, and save the young scullery maid accused of the crime. The plot was twisty enough to keep me interested and I would like to get to know Alexandra and Nick better. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
July 25, 2021
"dear Eddie" is dead by the hand of another. There seems to be a large number of people who are glad that he is out of the way though. When Dr. Alexandra Gladstone arrives to inspect the body she knows she must solve this crime before a young scullery maid is put to death. What she finds out about Eddie and his unsavory activities is quite telling but how does she go about finding the real killer when this killer also wants her dead?
Dr. Gladstone is a physician when women are not totally accepted in the role so people don't always believe what she has to say. However, with the help of her faithful housekeeper and her dog Zack she manages to do what she needs to do.
I originally listened this in 2014 but without realizing I had already done so I listened again and for whatever reason enjoyed it more than the first time. I am changing my original 3 stars to 4 stars.
Dr. Gladstone is a physician when women are not totally accepted in the role so people don't always believe what she has to say. However, with the help of her faithful housekeeper and her dog Zack she manages to do what she needs to do.
I originally listened this in 2014 but without realizing I had already done so I listened again and for whatever reason enjoyed it more than the first time. I am changing my original 3 stars to 4 stars.
November 5, 2015
Great fun with a tad of romance
Marie Shirley Griffin
This is the first of the Dr. Alexandra Gladstone mysteries. Set in England's early 1800's in a small village outside London, Dr. Gladstone, trained by her father (no real medical license required to practice at this time in history - most cures were holistic in nature, so a female doctor,although rare, is believable) and residing with her maid, a childhood friend. There's a very large breed of dog that resembles a bear (Newfoundland), named Zack, living with the doctor for comfort and protection.
There's been a murder up at the Earl's castle whilst he has been giving a weekend party.
The doctor is hot on the trail.
I'm planning on reading the next one. I belong to the KINDLE UNLIMITED Club, so it's free for me.
Marie Shirley Griffin
This is the first of the Dr. Alexandra Gladstone mysteries. Set in England's early 1800's in a small village outside London, Dr. Gladstone, trained by her father (no real medical license required to practice at this time in history - most cures were holistic in nature, so a female doctor,although rare, is believable) and residing with her maid, a childhood friend. There's a very large breed of dog that resembles a bear (Newfoundland), named Zack, living with the doctor for comfort and protection.
There's been a murder up at the Earl's castle whilst he has been giving a weekend party.
The doctor is hot on the trail.
I'm planning on reading the next one. I belong to the KINDLE UNLIMITED Club, so it's free for me.
February 12, 2014
Dr Alexandra Gladstone, no relation to the PM, was trained by her father and follows in his footsteps in the hamlet of Newton-upon-Sea. A hysterical kitchen main bursts into the dinner party Alexandra is attending at Lord Boswick's, attempting to kill the host with a kitchen knife. She is subdued and Alexandra administers a sedation to the maid calming her down. However, the next morning, the lord is dead and the kitchen maid is missing. The good doctor has more to fix than cuts and boils in solving the mystery.
It keeps one involved by the characters sometimes feel a bit hollow. I would read another though!
It keeps one involved by the characters sometimes feel a bit hollow. I would read another though!
July 4, 2016
Received this book as a first reads giveaway on audio and enjoyed listening to it while commuting to and from work. The audio version was very well read with varying voices for each character speaking which allowed me as a reader to get more into the story. I do not read many mysteries but was able to figure out who actually committed the murder in this case quite early on in the book. That being said, it seemed this was the first in a series and I would certainly read subsequent books. Entertaining albeit easy read.
August 3, 2010
This book sucked. If it weren't for the cover art I would have no idea of the period in which it was set from the writing and there seemed to be many anachronisms and just plain errors. By page 116 I didn't really care so I pretty much skimmed to get the rest of it over with. Saw the big clue the minute it it dropped so the ending was no great surprise. There's some precious reading time I'll never get back.
December 31, 2015
I really liked this book. I found myself immediately pulled into the writing, the characters and the story. I did figure out who the murderer was based on one big clue, which isn't generally good as I am a lazy reader and prefer to be swept up in the story and not working to figure out the mystery. Usually if I figure it out it wasn't very well hidden. But, while I knew who, I had no idea why until the end. I believe I will pick up the next in the series.
February 28, 2016
I love reading Victorian Mysteries...this book is really good and I never heard of Paula Paul who is the Author of this book until I started to read this book. I dearly love this book. It is really good and it is so Victorian too. I love it. I am going to be reading more books by this Author in the near future.
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