A Murder in Ashwood: Scandals and Secrets in the Gilded Age

The Avenging Angel Detective Agency Mysteries #2

by Robert Brighton

A lush and immersive historical award-winning mystery inspired by a 'true crime of the century' that shocked the world.

New Year’s Day 1902 . . . Ashwood awakens to a foul murder . . .

Buffalo, New York . . . as the remains of the great Pan-American Exposition are swept away, and the bitter memories of William McKinley’s assassination begin to fade . . . the city reels again, at the sensational murder of successful businessman Edward Miller, bludgeoned to death in his cozy den, in one of the city’s most fashionable Ashwood.

But for all its glitz and glamor, Ashwood guards the dark secrets of its fashionable residents . . . including those of Edward’s estranged wife Alicia, her lover Arthur Pendle, and would-be detective Sarah Payne. Soon, they will all face a hurricane of courtroom drama, public outrage, and the behind-the-scenes scheming of cold and corrupt District Attorney Terence Penrose.

Meanwhile, those caught up in the most scandalous crime of a new century have reputations to protect . . . skeletons best kept hidden away in the tidy closets of trendy Ashwood . . . and plenty of reasons to keep the motive behind Edward Miller’s murder from ever seeing the light of day - a motive that only the victim and his killer knew …
Can justice be done . . . and the truth uncovered by Sarah’s fledgling Avenging Angel Detective Agency . . . before a killer strikes again?

Find out in award-winning A Murder in Ashwood . . . the second novel in the Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries from Robert Brighton, acclaimed author of The Unsealing .

It’s as much a 'whydunit' as a 'whodunit' in a page-turning story that leaves readers wanting more.

Contains three original interior scratchboard illustrations.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction

448 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2023

About the author

Robert Brighton, award-winning author of immersive historical fiction, including The Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries, is an authority on the Gilded Age, and a great believer that the Victorian era was anything but stuffy.

In his Avenging Angel Detective Agency Mysteries, Brighton exposes the turbulence of the era - its passions, dreams, and disasters - against a backdrop of careful research on the places, sights, sounds, and smells of the time.

When he is not walking the streets in the footsteps of the Avenging Angels, sniffing out unsolved mysteries, Brighton is an adventurer. He has traveled in more than 50 countries around the world, personally throwing himself into every situation his characters will face - from underground ruins to opium dens - and (so far) living to tell about it.

A graduate of the Sorbonne, Paris, Brighton is an avid student of early 20th Century history and literature, an ardent and relentless investigator, and an admirer of Emily Dickinson and Jim Morrison. He lives in Virginia with his wife and their two cats.

The Avenging Angel Detective Agency™ Mysteries (read in any order):

- The Unsealing: Love, Lust, and Murder in the Gilded Age (Book One)
- A Murder in Ashwood: Scandals and Secrets in the Gilded Age (Book Two)
- Coming Spring 2024: Current of Darkness: Desire and Deceit in the Gilded Age (Book Three)

Plus, a new standalone novel:

The Buffalo Butcher: Jack the Ripper in the Electric City

Reviews

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Robert Brighton introduces the Avenging Angel Detective Agency™️, serving as a unique perspective to explore Ashwood's mysterious and scandal-ridden environment. The author excels in character development, transforming them from mere participants in the narrative to fully-realized individuals with complex histories and motivations. The detailed portrayal of the era enhances the story's authenticity, drawing the reader into the lavish yet perilous atmosphere of Ashwood. The story progresses with precision, each character adding to the intricate web of scandal and mystery. The detective agency's journey through layers of deceit builds a suspenseful narrative with unexpected plot twists that surprise and engage the reader. Brighton's prose is both articulate and expressive, vividly depicting the Gilded Age. The societal expectations of the time frame the story's secretive liaisons and unsolved murder, lend depth to the plot. The novel is an in-depth examination of a past era, revealing the often-hidden darker realities beneath societal appearances. As the murder's complexities unravel, I experienced a range of emotions, from astonishment at secret revelations to empathy for characters constrained by their society's demands.
A Murder in Ashwood is a compelling blend of historical depth and mystery intrigue. Brighton's mastery in storytelling and meticulous attention to historical detail craft a narrative that is both engaging and informative. This novel is a captivating read for those who appreciate a well-crafted mystery and are fascinated by the nuances of historical settings.

[Literary Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the discovery of Edward Miller’s lifeless body in his residence, a prominent member of the Ashwood social circle, the once-thriving society is thrown into turmoil. Adding to the intrigue, Edward’s estranged wife, Alicia Miller, returns to the scene amid whispers, conjecture, and relentless media scrutiny fueled by their ongoing divorce proceedings. While the police diligently pursue their investigation, a sudden suicide raises suspicions, potentially sabotaging any hope of a successful resolution. In this volatile environment, it falls upon the intelligent and determined Sarah Payne to untangle the web of deception, seek justice, and uncover truths that will shatter her faith in both the concept itself and the people she believed she knew.

Robert Brighton’s A Murder in Ashwood is a meticulously crafted mystery notable for its well-crafted narrative. While it serves as a sequel, it functions seamlessly as a standalone novel, requiring no prior knowledge of the series. Brighton’s prose is lucid, focused, and, at times, vividly descriptive. The story eschews unnecessary filler, placing a heavy emphasis on natural and engaging dialogue. Characters behave convincingly and realistically, reflecting Brighton’s thorough research into the societal norms and behaviors of the chosen period. The result is a remarkable historical mystery that defies conventional expectations.

The heart of the mystery in this novel is less about identifying the perpetrator, as the identity becomes apparent early on. However, this revelation doesn’t diminish the tension but instead shifts the focus onto the journey rather than the destination. How did the murderer execute their plan? How many allies were involved? Can truth and justice prevail against an orchestrated web of corruption and oppressive authority? These are the mysteries that our protagonists must unravel, and their ultimate triumph remains uncertain. As they inch closer to the truth, they begin to question the very values that initially drove them to seek justice, leaving readers to ponder their fate with bated breath.

[Robert Brighton · Rating 5 out of 5]

POSTING REVIEW FROM EXTERNAL SOURCE - REVIEWED BY READERS’ FAVORITE

Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers’ Favorite

In A Murder in Ashwood by Robert Brighton, the illustrious community of Ashwood was thrown into chaos when Alicia Miller cheated on her husband, Edward, with her attorney, Arthur Pendle. The duo exchanged love letters that revealed dirty secrets about Arthur’s boss, the District Attorney. When Edward filed for divorce from Alicia, he planned to admit the love letters as evidence, but suddenly, someone killed him in his own home. Who killed Edward Miller? Alicia, Arthur, the District attorney, or even Sarah for unrequited love? Now, the two women in Edward’s life are on the path of justice and revenge. Will they ever find the killer, or is it just a smokescreen? Find out by reading this novel.

A Murder in Ashwood by Robert Brighton is a captivating novel set in the early 1900s. It is a story of betrayals, deception, power quests, conscience, crimes, and love. I loved the world building, from the homes to transportation, currency value, attire, and the modern language. The characters were also dynamic and consistent, which gave the story depth and made it thought-provoking. Was Sarah any better than Alicia because their situations were the same? Was Edward a saint? I felt Alicia was a bright realist who went for what she wanted without apology. However, Sarah acted the naive good girl while nursing ambitions toward another woman’s husband. I liked both women differently. I also loved Annie because she was resourceful. A Murder in Ashwood is a beautiful and engaging story written by a talented writer. Please, write more, Robert.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Murder in Ashwood by Robert Brighton is the ultimate turn-of-the-century murder mystery. When Mrs. Miller's husband is found brutally killed in their home, everything turns upside down; as the coroner removes the body, an autopsy is conducted, and an investigation is initiated. The story quickly becomes an intriguing mystery about Mr. Miller's murder, with everyone a potential suspect, leading to a compelling case.

From the beginning, the reader plunges into the heart of the action in this enthralling historical mystery novel, with strong, well-developed characters and raw, emotional dialogue. The author is descriptive, unveiling each scene and event so that readers can see it clearly in their minds, noting any possible clues that may be revealed. I enjoyed the details of each development throughout the book, from the family’s complicated relationship with each other to the funeral arrangements and suddenly becoming the center of media attention.

The author brings a unique writing style and characters to the traditional murder-mystery genre with page-turning excitement and the determination of Sarah of the Avenging Angel Detective Agency to solve the case. I enjoyed the modern twist of a woman detective and the blunt, strong language expressed by key players in the story. The narration style and lively characters piqued my interest in the book, and after completing the story, they exceeded my expectations.

A Murder in Ashwood by Robert Brighton is an entertaining, gritty, and exciting read that captivated me. I recommend this spectacular book for its original style and intriguing characters, which kept me reading from one chapter to the next. The story felt realistically portrayed as if I was reading a true crime novel set in the first years of the twentieth century. It’s an excellent read for fans of murder mysteries and suspense.

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Readers are transported to the atmospheric world of early 20th century Buffalo, New York. Set against the backdrop of William McKinley's assassination, the novel delves into a gripping tale of love, greed, and power, intertwining with a meticulously crafted murder investigation led by the Avenging Angel Detective Agency. This sequel to The Unsealing continues the narrative rhythm that Brighton has become known for, offering a richly detailed portrayal of the era that immerses the reader in its vibrant setting.
Brighton's skill in character development shines through as characters evolve and reveal their complexities, contributing to a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. This detective story, marked by unexpected twists and sustained suspense, stands out for its historical fidelity. The author’s diligent research into the period adds an authentic layer to the narrative, making it a compelling read for those who appreciate historical accuracy blended with riveting storytelling.

For those new to Brighton's work, it's advisable to start with the first book to fully appreciate the unfolding story. The exploration of this tumultuous time, offers a narrative that is likely to captivate and perhaps even challenge the reader's perceptions. This book is a strong recommendation for anyone looking to step outside their usual literary choices and immerse themselves in a well-crafted historical mystery.

[Ink · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Murder in Ashwood by Robert Brighton is a compelling mystery set in Buffalo, New York in 1902. It is as intriguing as it is authentic, opulent as it is gritty and all in all, had me captivated. I juped on this book when I saw it and in all honesty, jumped the queue of my TBR to get my teeth into it and I was certainly not disappointed

We learn about the "who" early on, but like any case, you cannot get a conviction unless you have the "how" and "why" and that is the primary focus of this book. It is a refreshing take on the mystery novel, not racing to a grand reveal, but instead dissecting the facts using the dialogue between characters and a succint narrative that illuminates the scenes. I was surprised to find that this was a sequel as I would have thought it was a standalone, it is so neatly constructed, but oh my oh my am I glad it is indeed part of a series!

Authenticity matters to me when I read any historical mystery, whether it serves as the foundation for speculation or whether a book devoutly portrays an era, it's an important factor and Brighton is a master at creating characters, scenes and dialogue that would be as much at home on the silver screen as within the pages of a novel.

An engaging and compelling read and I look forward ot reading more

Thank you to Netgalley, Ashwood Press and the phenomenal author Robert Brighton for this delicious ARC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

[Chico's Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

An engaging read
Brighton's portrayal of this era is reminiscent of the classic film noir era, filled with detailed and authentic scenes that vividly bring the period to life. There's a certain allure to this era, often associated with scandals and mysteries, which the author captures effectively. The book's attention to period-specific details, like the inclusion of a torc, adds depth to its setting. The depiction of the courtroom setting is so vivid and dynamic, it's almost like experiencing a real-life legal drama unfold.The novel's visual elements, such as its illustrations, significantly enhance the reading experience, particularly for those who appreciate a more visual storytelling approach. While the desire for a classic typewriter font to add to the authenticity is noted, the narrative style effectively conveys the essence of the period. For enthusiasts of detective fiction, A Murder in Ashwood offers familiar tropes with fresh twists, making it an engaging read. Sarah Payne's character is particularly noteworthy, with her potential for further adventures being a promising aspect for readers to anticipate.
Overall, A Murder in Ashwood is a compelling blend of historical setting and mystery, likely to appeal to fans of the genre and those who enjoy visually rich narratives.

[Almiria · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story unfolds in the upscale Ashwood district, where the murder of businessman Edward Miller sends ripples through society. The reaction of his wife, Alicia, to the tragedy piqued my interest, as did the meticulously crafted historical setting. Brighton's writing style adeptly brings this bygone era to life, achieving a delicate balance that resonates with contemporary readers. He invites us into a world that appears outwardly refined yet is rife with secrets and scandals beneath its surface. The narrative artfully peels back the layers of this ostensibly decorous society. The characters, both primary and secondary, are well-developed, offering insights into their motivations, fears, and hidden truths. This depth adds richness to the reading experience, encouraging a measured pace to fully appreciate the nuances of the era and the suspenseful plot. For enthusiasts of historical fiction or crime novels, this book presents a rewarding journey. Its detailed exploration of character psychology and setting contributes to a gradually intensifying suspense. This novel isn't designed for a swift read; rather, it invites readers to delve deeply into a complex, intriguing world. For those drawn to this genre, it comes highly recommended.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXCEPTIONAL! I’d give this book TEN STARS if I could. The author is a truly great writer! I loved everything about this book - the character development, the stories interwoven in such a skillful way, the suspense, the human element, the exploration of technology of the day to help solve the case and the wonder of what will happen next. The book also includes many sophisticated plot lines that very effectively explore the various character mindsets, experiences and inform their arcs throughout the book. Many suspenseful moments, many touching and sweet moments, many sad and wistful moments, all appearing at just the right points in the story. I found myself wondering what I would do if I were Sarah (and how I can be more like Sarah), marveling at Annie’s clever and capable nature, imagining myself in the offices of the new Avenging Angel Detective Agency, and wondering how I might find allies like Harry Price in my real life. I finished this book quickly, as I really couldn’t put it down. The historical details transported me into a different time and place, and I will read it again, and again. It’s wonderful from start to finish!

[Píaras Cíonnaoíth · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Gripping Gilded-Age Mystery...

In "A Murder in Ashwood," Robert Brighton skillfully immerses readers into the shadowy world of Buffalo's elite society in 1902. Against the backdrop of the aftermath of the Pan-American Exposition and William McKinley's assassination, a new tragedy unfolds the brutal murder of wealthy businessman Edward Miller in his Ashwood residence. Brighton meticulously uncovers the hidden secrets and scandalous affairs that lurk beneath Ashwood's affluent facade. Through a diverse cast of characters, including Edward's estranged wife Alicia, her lover Arthur Pendle, and aspiring investigator Sarah Payne, the reader is drawn into a web of intrigue, legal battles, and corrupt dealings orchestrated by District Attorney Terence Penrose. With each page, Brighton keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the final revelation. "A Murder in Ashwood" is a masterful blend of mystery, intrigue, and historical fiction, leaving readers hungry for more. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it.

[Keira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely wonderful book - an absolute must read! This has it all - it is a well-paced and intriguing mystery that unfolds so smartly, while also delving into the psychology of what is happening, with thoroughly developed characters and inventive scenes and plotlines throughout. Plus, this book is so credible with historically correct details, courtroom scenes that unfold better than any drama you’d imagine, detective drama, interpersonal relationships that are complex and respectfully developed and portrayed by the author, and more. There’s drama, power struggles, greed, betrayal … and humor, love and newly forged bonds of friendship. Loved all of it - every page! It’s such an extremely great book!

[203Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

HiddenGemsBooks sent me a copy for an honest review. I didn’t realize that this was the 2nd book in a series at first, but it was also a fine stand alone novel.

I enjoyed the murder mystery, courtroom and scandalous aspects of this book. Plus the author really transported me into the gilded age throughout the narrative. It was super spicy in scenes (which was fine but unexpected).

The cons are that there were parts of this book that dragged out and there were a lot of story lines happening at once. I think it would have read better if it were a shorter book - especially now that I realize it was part of a series anyway.

Overall it was a fun time capsule of a book. 3.5 stars rounded up.

[Laryssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story picks up where “The Unsealing” leaves off, recanting certain bits with more elaborate details.

Like the last, the vivid imagery and characterizations in “A Murder in Ashwood” are exceptional. The ladies really take the lead in this second installment — and wow are they badass! (As much as I want to hate Alicia, learning more about her and why she ticks the way she does, lends a level of respect and understanding).

I was fully engaged and wanting to keep reading on, though I will say that “A Murder in Ashwood” feels like it’s heading us up for a pretty epic third installment of the series, which I cannot wait to sink into.

[Jenifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brighton has delivered another fabulous novel, transporting me back in time in his 2nd immersive historical mystery. I was treated to a slice of Buffalo in its early 1900s heyday through the eyes of characters in various classes with the backdrop of a vicious murder. The story is immediately compelling, deliciously shocking, and evolves in unexpected ways with the interplay of new antagonists and sympathetic ruffians in the lives of some of my favorite key players from the first book. Most definitely hoping to see more of these new faces in future work!

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 2nd in the Avenging angel Series. If you are going to read these, they should be read in order! This was an "immediate" continuation of THE UNSEALING. Masterfully written. Brighton has a gift for weaving tales. He keeps you guessing and turning pages. There were still many surprises in this book as in the first. This was a slower read, not boring, but to understand the clues being dropped along the way. A delicious read.

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book - ambitiously told, multiple storylines throughout, and a richness that made me go back in time. Love the lady detectives and their bodyguard, fully cheering them on, while wondering if I could solve the mysteries along with them. Terrific book.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm enjoying these Gilded Age mysteries by R. Brighton. He truly sets the stage and describes early 1900 Buffalo NY in detail. The architectural information is spot on. His writing is easy to read, direct, and very interesting.

[Joseph Carano · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a big fan and reader of historical novels since I was young and read James Mitchner novels. This novel did not disappoint. Set in the early 1900's when Buffalo, New York was a boom town, the story follows a murder and delves into high society and dirty politics. Great characters and a very good adult orientated plot add to the story. My reviews never contain spoilers, but I do highly recommend this book.