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The Harvey Girl #1
The Harvey Girl
From the award-winning author of the Kate Shugak Mysteries, a thrilling new detective series set during America's wild boom time of the nineteenth century.
WELCOME TO THE GILDED AGE. WHERE NOT EVERYTHING GLITTERS.
1890. The New Mexico Territory is a lawless frontier where criminals steal money and land alike with impunity. Everyone wears a six-gun and is ready and willing to draw it.
In the new city of Montaña Roja, Fred Harvey's growing empire is threatened by the robberies plaguing his newest Harvey House restaurant. To get justice, he needs a skilled detective to go undercover and procure answers to questions the law will not ask.
The assignment falls to Clare Wright, a young Pinkerton agent. Disguised as one of Harvey's famous hostesses, Clare travels west where she risks being exposed at every step of her investigation. To get answers – and to get out alive – there are only two things she can her instincts, and her derringer.
Reviewers love The Harvey Girl
'Smooth writing, interesting characters, and a mystery to boot... I love this book' Joe R. Lansdale
'An absolute gem of a novel – a gripping story with great characters and fascinating history' C.J. Box
'A richly researched, masterly plotted historical mystery' Sara Donati
WELCOME TO THE GILDED AGE. WHERE NOT EVERYTHING GLITTERS.
1890. The New Mexico Territory is a lawless frontier where criminals steal money and land alike with impunity. Everyone wears a six-gun and is ready and willing to draw it.
In the new city of Montaña Roja, Fred Harvey's growing empire is threatened by the robberies plaguing his newest Harvey House restaurant. To get justice, he needs a skilled detective to go undercover and procure answers to questions the law will not ask.
The assignment falls to Clare Wright, a young Pinkerton agent. Disguised as one of Harvey's famous hostesses, Clare travels west where she risks being exposed at every step of her investigation. To get answers – and to get out alive – there are only two things she can her instincts, and her derringer.
Reviewers love The Harvey Girl
'Smooth writing, interesting characters, and a mystery to boot... I love this book' Joe R. Lansdale
'An absolute gem of a novel – a gripping story with great characters and fascinating history' C.J. Box
'A richly researched, masterly plotted historical mystery' Sara Donati
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 5, 2026
About the author
Dana Stabenow
87 books2,218 followersDana Stabenow was born in Anchorage and raised on 75-foot fish tender in the Gulf of Alaska. She knew there was a warmer, drier job out there somewhere.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
November 24, 2025
This book is the first in what appears to be a new series from Dana Stabenow. I’ve already read the entire Kate Shugak (20+books) set in Alaska.
This time, the book is set in the new Frontier towns of the Old West. Reading the notes at the end of the book, I was surprised to read just how many of these events, places and people were real - just jiggled around a bit for the book. I’d heard of several of the people and places but wasn’t aware that the Harvey Hotels, the Harvey Girls and the Pinkerton Detective Agency actually existed.
Although I chose this book because it was written by Dana Stabenow, I do have some issues with her writing.
What she does best is location and scene setting, followed by her inclusion of interesting historical facts. Next comes her storylines - which are sometimes quite far-fetched and rely heavily on the same set of dramatic situations. Although, that said, they’re usually engrossing for the most part.
My main issue with her books is that her characters aren’t generally engaging - particularly her lead characters. Plenty about what they do and how they look physically, but they’re never really deep or nuanced. And that’s such a shame as I’d love to be rooting for them, but there’s nothing really to give them anything but a basic personality (usually fortitude, attitude and courage, and that’s about it).
Interesting time and setting, but I’m not sure that I’d go back for another helping if this is going to be a new series.
This time, the book is set in the new Frontier towns of the Old West. Reading the notes at the end of the book, I was surprised to read just how many of these events, places and people were real - just jiggled around a bit for the book. I’d heard of several of the people and places but wasn’t aware that the Harvey Hotels, the Harvey Girls and the Pinkerton Detective Agency actually existed.
Although I chose this book because it was written by Dana Stabenow, I do have some issues with her writing.
What she does best is location and scene setting, followed by her inclusion of interesting historical facts. Next comes her storylines - which are sometimes quite far-fetched and rely heavily on the same set of dramatic situations. Although, that said, they’re usually engrossing for the most part.
My main issue with her books is that her characters aren’t generally engaging - particularly her lead characters. Plenty about what they do and how they look physically, but they’re never really deep or nuanced. And that’s such a shame as I’d love to be rooting for them, but there’s nothing really to give them anything but a basic personality (usually fortitude, attitude and courage, and that’s about it).
Interesting time and setting, but I’m not sure that I’d go back for another helping if this is going to be a new series.
March 13, 2026
IN A NUTSHELL
First book in a new historical fiction series set in 1890s America. A strong, brave, resourceful, well-educated female Pinkerton agent as the main character. Propulsive thriller plot woven around real historical figures. Lots of action, much of it violent. It was a fast, fun and fascinating read. I want more, as soon as possible.
'The Harvey Girl' is the first book in an historical fiction series about Pinkerton Agent Clare Wright in 1890s America, where, twenty-five years after the end of the Civil War and the assassination of President Lincoln, the robber barons of the railroad have opened up the still largely lawless territories of the American West.
The story hooked me immediately, starting with a dramatic prologue, set in 1868, describing the traumatic birth of the baby who will become our heroine, establishing an air of mystery and a suggestion of tragedy about her from the beginning.
The action then moved to the Red Mountain Express, which, en route from Chicago to Montaña Roja in the New Mexico Territory, is stopped in the middle of the night in the high desert and robbed at gunpoint by a highly organised crew, leaving a dead body in their wake.
We finally meet Clare as, working undercover, she brings a fraud case to a spectacular close before being called back to headquarters to be given a new assignment working undercover for a very high-profile client: Fred Harvey, founder and manager of the Harvey Houses. Fred wants Clare to investigate the train robberies while working as a Harvey Girl.
I liked the way Dana Stabenow wove real people, like the Pinkerton Brothers, Fred Harvey and even Mark Twain, into the story. They provided a credible context for Clare to work in without getting the reader bogged down in a long history lesson.
The mystery that Clare is tasked with solving is a solid one, and the Harvey Girl culture is vividly brought to life, but, for me, it was Clare who gave the story its sparkle. She was clever, brave, well-educated, focused, lied fluently to everyone to protect her cover story of being a Harvey Girl, and always carried her Derringer. I enjoyed getting to know her and seeing her worldview expand as she started to fall in love with the American West.
There was a lot of violence in the story, but then this was the American West before the law had arrived, when the billionaires of the day regularly demonstrated that the law didn’t apply to them.
The book doesn’t have a cliff-hanger ending, but it does have a Season 1, Episode 1 feel, where many possibilities are left open, not all mysteries are solved, and it is clear that we will meet some of the most charismatic characters again in the next book. I was fine with that, even if I have to wait a year for Episode 2.
I recommend the audiobook version of ‘The Harvey Girl’. I loved listening to Marguerite Gavin bring this world to life. Click on the YouTube link below to hear a sample.
https://youtu.be/fNKlzsJIl9E?si=-_Km-...
First book in a new historical fiction series set in 1890s America. A strong, brave, resourceful, well-educated female Pinkerton agent as the main character. Propulsive thriller plot woven around real historical figures. Lots of action, much of it violent. It was a fast, fun and fascinating read. I want more, as soon as possible.
'The Harvey Girl' is the first book in an historical fiction series about Pinkerton Agent Clare Wright in 1890s America, where, twenty-five years after the end of the Civil War and the assassination of President Lincoln, the robber barons of the railroad have opened up the still largely lawless territories of the American West.
The story hooked me immediately, starting with a dramatic prologue, set in 1868, describing the traumatic birth of the baby who will become our heroine, establishing an air of mystery and a suggestion of tragedy about her from the beginning.
The action then moved to the Red Mountain Express, which, en route from Chicago to Montaña Roja in the New Mexico Territory, is stopped in the middle of the night in the high desert and robbed at gunpoint by a highly organised crew, leaving a dead body in their wake.
We finally meet Clare as, working undercover, she brings a fraud case to a spectacular close before being called back to headquarters to be given a new assignment working undercover for a very high-profile client: Fred Harvey, founder and manager of the Harvey Houses. Fred wants Clare to investigate the train robberies while working as a Harvey Girl.
I liked the way Dana Stabenow wove real people, like the Pinkerton Brothers, Fred Harvey and even Mark Twain, into the story. They provided a credible context for Clare to work in without getting the reader bogged down in a long history lesson.
The mystery that Clare is tasked with solving is a solid one, and the Harvey Girl culture is vividly brought to life, but, for me, it was Clare who gave the story its sparkle. She was clever, brave, well-educated, focused, lied fluently to everyone to protect her cover story of being a Harvey Girl, and always carried her Derringer. I enjoyed getting to know her and seeing her worldview expand as she started to fall in love with the American West.
There was a lot of violence in the story, but then this was the American West before the law had arrived, when the billionaires of the day regularly demonstrated that the law didn’t apply to them.
The book doesn’t have a cliff-hanger ending, but it does have a Season 1, Episode 1 feel, where many possibilities are left open, not all mysteries are solved, and it is clear that we will meet some of the most charismatic characters again in the next book. I was fine with that, even if I have to wait a year for Episode 2.
I recommend the audiobook version of ‘The Harvey Girl’. I loved listening to Marguerite Gavin bring this world to life. Click on the YouTube link below to hear a sample.
https://youtu.be/fNKlzsJIl9E?si=-_Km-...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Pre-Read Notes:
I requested this from NetGalley because I read a Dana Stabenow mystery two decades ago and liked it. When books stick with me this way, I tend to read more from the author.
Final Review
(thoughts & recs) I think this could have been a better book if it was longer. With 26 speaking characters, the story really should have unfolded over more pages, giving all those characters room to breathe.
If you don't mind a story mostly made from summary and dialog, you could find the history fascinating.
My Favorite Things:
✔️ The concept is heartbreaking, because this child goes through so much. I haven't gotten very far yet, but she could be good and screwed up for life! It wouldn't be her fault if she was.
✔️ I like the length of this book, 272 pages. That's perfect for a mystery. But this book has 26 named and speaking characters. That's about one every ten pages. For me, it's too much. Maybe objectively, it's too much.
Content Notes: child neglect, child abandonment,
Thank you to the author Dana Stabenow, Bloomsbury USA, and NetGalley for an accessible digital copy of THE HARVEY GIRL. All views are mine.
I requested this from NetGalley because I read a Dana Stabenow mystery two decades ago and liked it. When books stick with me this way, I tend to read more from the author.
Final Review
(thoughts & recs) I think this could have been a better book if it was longer. With 26 speaking characters, the story really should have unfolded over more pages, giving all those characters room to breathe.
If you don't mind a story mostly made from summary and dialog, you could find the history fascinating.
My Favorite Things:
✔️ The concept is heartbreaking, because this child goes through so much. I haven't gotten very far yet, but she could be good and screwed up for life! It wouldn't be her fault if she was.
✔️ I like the length of this book, 272 pages. That's perfect for a mystery. But this book has 26 named and speaking characters. That's about one every ten pages. For me, it's too much. Maybe objectively, it's too much.
Content Notes: child neglect, child abandonment,
Thank you to the author Dana Stabenow, Bloomsbury USA, and NetGalley for an accessible digital copy of THE HARVEY GIRL. All views are mine.
March 6, 2026
Very disappointed in the new book by Dana Stabenow, and I am a Big Fan ! I bought the hard copy, the Kindle, and the audiobook. A mistake. The pace was slow, I couldn’t get invested in Claire, and the hanging ending was the last straw.
May 21, 2026
As a big fan of all things Fred Harvey and the Harvey Girls, I was really looking forward to this book. Even though it was very well researched, it really fell flat for me. There is something about the writing style that rubs me wrong, there were too many characters, and the main character was poorly developed. To top it off, the mystery was left unresolved at the end! I thought I had missed something, and then realized that she was saving the resolution for Book 2. I think it's really insulting to a reader to not wrap things up at the end of a book and expect that they'll want to read the sequel.
June 22, 2026
This is a hard book for me to review.
If you want an in-depth look at life in the rapidly developing Wild West, this is a good book.
If you want to learn about the infamouns Harvey Girls, this is a great book.
If you want a mystery, this is not a great book.
The mystery got so lost in the atmosphere and the information. At points, I had to remind myself I was even reading a mystery.
I'm not even sure the characters developed enough for me to continue on with this series. Mainly because there were just so many of them. However, I'm starting to find that's maybe a theme with Stabenow. I seem to have a similiar issue with her Eye of Isis series.
If you want an in-depth look at life in the rapidly developing Wild West, this is a good book.
If you want to learn about the infamouns Harvey Girls, this is a great book.
If you want a mystery, this is not a great book.
The mystery got so lost in the atmosphere and the information. At points, I had to remind myself I was even reading a mystery.
I'm not even sure the characters developed enough for me to continue on with this series. Mainly because there were just so many of them. However, I'm starting to find that's maybe a theme with Stabenow. I seem to have a similiar issue with her Eye of Isis series.
April 3, 2026
I might have read a book in the author's Kate Shugak series years ago, but if I did, I didn't stick with the series (obviously). No, I picked up this book based entirely on the subject matter (Lady Pinkerton Agent!) and the subject matter (going undercover as a Harvey Girl to find train robbers!). My history nerd heart started singing immediately.
This was a very quick listen on audio (7 hours) so it's a book that runs on a the shorter side. There's also a ton of characters here and it did take me a moment to find my sea legs. Where this book excels is in the world building, which is dynamite. Gilded Age New Mexico - still very much the untamed Wild West in a lot of ways. Stabenow utilizes real historical events and figures in her story - sometimes they work, sometimes they feel like filler. Frank Harvey? Necessary for the story. Bat Masterson? Moderately important to the story. Mark Twain? Totally unnecessary. The bits about robber barons, tariffs, and what was going on between the US and Mexico at the time? Very interesting.
It's one of those mysteries that's "solved" but only to a certain extent. The heroine discovers what's going on, but she can't conclusively prove it. I like my mysteries to be a bit more definitive than that with their endings, but I still enjoyed this. I'll read the next book in the series if we get one.
This was a very quick listen on audio (7 hours) so it's a book that runs on a the shorter side. There's also a ton of characters here and it did take me a moment to find my sea legs. Where this book excels is in the world building, which is dynamite. Gilded Age New Mexico - still very much the untamed Wild West in a lot of ways. Stabenow utilizes real historical events and figures in her story - sometimes they work, sometimes they feel like filler. Frank Harvey? Necessary for the story. Bat Masterson? Moderately important to the story. Mark Twain? Totally unnecessary. The bits about robber barons, tariffs, and what was going on between the US and Mexico at the time? Very interesting.
It's one of those mysteries that's "solved" but only to a certain extent. The heroine discovers what's going on, but she can't conclusively prove it. I like my mysteries to be a bit more definitive than that with their endings, but I still enjoyed this. I'll read the next book in the series if we get one.
April 27, 2026
Set in New Mexico circa 1890, The Harvey Girl is the first in a new series featuring Clare Wright a young Pinkerton agent who is assigned to the city of Montana Roja, to find the culprits behind a series of train robberies, the most recent of which resulted in a gruesome death. She poses as a Harvey girl, a hostess at one of the famous Harvey Houses, and during her investigation gets her first exposure to the wild west.
This was a fun read. I had never heard of the Harvey girls so it was nice to get a little history lesson while enjoying a surprisingly complicated mystery. Stabenow does a great job integrating actual historic personas into the story line and I always appreciate an author's afterword explaining her research. Clare is another smart, strong Stabenow heroine and I look forward to her next adventure.
This was a fun read. I had never heard of the Harvey girls so it was nice to get a little history lesson while enjoying a surprisingly complicated mystery. Stabenow does a great job integrating actual historic personas into the story line and I always appreciate an author's afterword explaining her research. Clare is another smart, strong Stabenow heroine and I look forward to her next adventure.
Want to Read
June 17, 2026Yes: A book I borrowed from the library to try before I buy (tired buying hundreds books and hating half)
I read first ch or more -first 10-100 pages skim around at times. I read many of my GR friend’s reviews. This is what I did and didn’t like:
but borrow
I like this book and want to read it but i do not want to buy the physical book I will either borrow it again from library or get it on kindle/audible
Cover design is cool but colors are terrible.
A HF mystery. The writing is good and im curious. I love a strong female led story. I’ll just borrow this from my library across the street.
I read first ch or more -first 10-100 pages skim around at times. I read many of my GR friend’s reviews. This is what I did and didn’t like:
but borrow
I like this book and want to read it but i do not want to buy the physical book I will either borrow it again from library or get it on kindle/audible
Cover design is cool but colors are terrible.
A HF mystery. The writing is good and im curious. I love a strong female led story. I’ll just borrow this from my library across the street.
April 4, 2026
Review to come
September 20, 2026
I have enjoyed most of her Alaska books. This one is mildly interesting. None of the characters are developed enough to "know" them or even truly care about them. It is a light look at the West and the Harvey Girls..they were real. The end of the book leaves everything unresolved. No, I will not read book two of the series.
March 4, 2026
To be perfectly honest, I confused this with another book of the same title that I wanted to read. Nonetheless, it sounded intriguing. I love historical fiction and mysteries, so a book that combines the two genres held a great deal of promise. However, it just wasn’t for me.
There were some wonderful possibilities here. I have never read any historical fiction about this era in America, the 1890’s and westward expansion. The protagonist was a woman I really wanted to love. How could any modern American woman not love a strong and sassy woman in the late 1800s who was a Pinkerton lady, out to catch the outlaw that was robbing people in New Mexico? There was so much promise here.
However, it just did not grab my attention, even though it should have. While I certainly rooted for Claire (the protagonist), I became lost in the rest of the book. There were too many characters, which detracted from Claire, and they were all visceral. It was hard to keep track. The character who I was most interested in seeing Claire interact with was Mark Twain. That was fascinating. Unfortunately, the plethora of characters was just too much for me. At the same time I wanted to hear more about the other Harvey girls because the existence of them in an era where women were more seen and not heard was fascinating. Hence, this novel seemed to have both more of what I didn’t want and less of what I did want. On the other hand, it did make me want to actually do research on the Harvey girls.
Thanks to NetGalley, and Bloomsbury, USA for providing me with advanced copies of this novel. All of the opinions herein are my own.
There were some wonderful possibilities here. I have never read any historical fiction about this era in America, the 1890’s and westward expansion. The protagonist was a woman I really wanted to love. How could any modern American woman not love a strong and sassy woman in the late 1800s who was a Pinkerton lady, out to catch the outlaw that was robbing people in New Mexico? There was so much promise here.
However, it just did not grab my attention, even though it should have. While I certainly rooted for Claire (the protagonist), I became lost in the rest of the book. There were too many characters, which detracted from Claire, and they were all visceral. It was hard to keep track. The character who I was most interested in seeing Claire interact with was Mark Twain. That was fascinating. Unfortunately, the plethora of characters was just too much for me. At the same time I wanted to hear more about the other Harvey girls because the existence of them in an era where women were more seen and not heard was fascinating. Hence, this novel seemed to have both more of what I didn’t want and less of what I did want. On the other hand, it did make me want to actually do research on the Harvey girls.
Thanks to NetGalley, and Bloomsbury, USA for providing me with advanced copies of this novel. All of the opinions herein are my own.
June 8, 2026
This is a the first in the start of a new series about a young female Pinkerton agent. It has potential as a series and the plucky heroine is likable enough to carry a story but this first outing, where Clare heads to the New Mexico territory to discover who is robbing trains is slow moving. Clare masquerades as a Harvey Girl, which apparently was a real thing (Harvey restaurants and hotels at train stops). There is a whole interlude with side characters, Bat Masterson, Butch Cassidy and Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) that is entertaining but stretches realism. The story is only halfway tied up and is left obviously set the stage for another book. I’ll give it a try but hope the excitement picks up a bit more in book two.
March 17, 2026
I've always had a soft spot for Dana Stabenow books. She writes good, cozy mysteries. It's been a long time since I read her Kate Shugak books, and the setting of her new series doesn't quite appeal to me in the same way (Alaska felt like a real character in the way this book can't quite reach) but still she hasn't lost her touch.
July 19, 2026
I have read this author for 20 years, and really like both her Liam Campbell and her Kate Shugak series--this is a new one, set at the end of the 19th century in the American West. Fred Harvey, who I am familiar with because of the hotels and restaurants in National Parks, is a character in this, as is Samuel Clemens (who I know traveled widely because I just read a biography about him). There is some history thrown in, is what I am saying, and I hope this is not a one and done.
September 27, 2026
While I've enjoyed other novels by this author, this is not one of my favorites. The history of the Harvey Girls is interesting, but I found the story to be convoluted and boring. Don't plan to read more of the series.
July 10, 2026
Very good. Very interesting history. I’ve been to many of the places in the book which makes it even more interesting.
July 24, 2026
(Review of advance copy)
An interesting story, but with lots of characters to visualise. It opened my eyes to a part of history I was previously unaware of.
An interesting story, but with lots of characters to visualise. It opened my eyes to a part of history I was previously unaware of.
July 4, 2026
A little disappointing. Being a fan of the Kate Shugat series, I thought I would enjoy this. I also was expecting a conclusion.
March 20, 2026
This favorite author does extreme research for her historical stories. I really enjoy the Eye of Isis series.
https://www.goodreads.com/series/2454...
This book has all the research, but lacks a coherent plot. The central characters are solid, but the literary devices of random quotes in Latin, famous people dropping by, and global politics of the 1890s became tiresome.
I'm not sure if I'll read the next one, which must be published soon, as this is the mystery version of a HFN ending.
https://www.goodreads.com/series/2454...
This book has all the research, but lacks a coherent plot. The central characters are solid, but the literary devices of random quotes in Latin, famous people dropping by, and global politics of the 1890s became tiresome.
I'm not sure if I'll read the next one, which must be published soon, as this is the mystery version of a HFN ending.
March 15, 2026
I've read everything Dana Stabenow has written and have greatly enjoyed her books. The Harvey Girl is no exception. Nifty historical details, independent self sufficient heroine, set in 1890 in the Wild West makes for an entertaining read. Bravo Dana for another wonderful mystery book set in historical times.
May 4, 2026
did not like the way the writing opening was structured. could not continue after 49 pages.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I've been reading mystery and thrillers for a very long time, but author Dana Stabenow never got on my radar for some reason. When I saw this historical mystery (my favorite genre) and found out this was the beginning of a new series, I wanted to get on it from the first. I'm not a big fan of westerns, but I wanted to give this a try. I cannot believe how quickly time passed when I read it; it was one of those books that just catches your attention from the start, and you don't want to put it down until you're through.
In 1890, the New Mexico Territory is a lawless frontier where criminals steal money and just about everything else at the drop of a dime. Everyone wears a six-gun and is ready and willing to shoot it. The new city of Montaña Roja is where Fred Harvey built his latest Harvey House. His growing empire is threatened by the robberies plaguing his newest restaurant. To find the culprits, he needs a skilled detective to go undercover and get answers to questions the law will not ask. The job is assigned to Clare Wright, a young Pinkerton agent. Disguised as one of Harvey's famous hostesses, Clare travels west where she risks being exposed at every step of her investigation. There are only two things she can trust: during this investigation: her instincts and her derringer.
This really was a thrilling and fun story from beginning to end. Clare Wright, who was related to the Pinkerton men, was assigned this job. Who else but a young woman could work at the Harvey House and not stand out? She was smart and knew she could discover who the thieves were, as this wasn't her first rodeo, so to speak. But the New Mexico Territory was different from most of the places she worked in the past; it's certainly not like Chicago! I know waitressing is hard work and I wouldn't want to do it, but I can't believe what the Harvey Girls went through working at the Harvey House with it's extremely rigid rules and good reputation. I'm surprised just how hard those young woman worked! Clare was good at getting into locked rooms and finding personal records. She was bound and determined to find out who was stealing supplies from trains delivering goods, and who killed men working for the railroad by cutting their throats. I loved this intrepid young agent; she was easy to root for. One of the things I really liked about this book is the number of real people who appeared or were mentioned in the book. I was so excited to see Claire talking to Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain, and Bat Masterson, who always called Clare sweetheart! And of course, there was Fred Harvey and his famous restaurants and hostesses. I enjoyed this story thoroughly, but I do have one complaint. It seems to me that it ended quite abruptly. There was so much action and secrets revealed, but it just...ended. Feels like loose ends to me. At least I have the comfort knowing that Clare Wright will be back again for another investigation!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
In 1890, the New Mexico Territory is a lawless frontier where criminals steal money and just about everything else at the drop of a dime. Everyone wears a six-gun and is ready and willing to shoot it. The new city of Montaña Roja is where Fred Harvey built his latest Harvey House. His growing empire is threatened by the robberies plaguing his newest restaurant. To find the culprits, he needs a skilled detective to go undercover and get answers to questions the law will not ask. The job is assigned to Clare Wright, a young Pinkerton agent. Disguised as one of Harvey's famous hostesses, Clare travels west where she risks being exposed at every step of her investigation. There are only two things she can trust: during this investigation: her instincts and her derringer.
This really was a thrilling and fun story from beginning to end. Clare Wright, who was related to the Pinkerton men, was assigned this job. Who else but a young woman could work at the Harvey House and not stand out? She was smart and knew she could discover who the thieves were, as this wasn't her first rodeo, so to speak. But the New Mexico Territory was different from most of the places she worked in the past; it's certainly not like Chicago! I know waitressing is hard work and I wouldn't want to do it, but I can't believe what the Harvey Girls went through working at the Harvey House with it's extremely rigid rules and good reputation. I'm surprised just how hard those young woman worked! Clare was good at getting into locked rooms and finding personal records. She was bound and determined to find out who was stealing supplies from trains delivering goods, and who killed men working for the railroad by cutting their throats. I loved this intrepid young agent; she was easy to root for. One of the things I really liked about this book is the number of real people who appeared or were mentioned in the book. I was so excited to see Claire talking to Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain, and Bat Masterson, who always called Clare sweetheart! And of course, there was Fred Harvey and his famous restaurants and hostesses. I enjoyed this story thoroughly, but I do have one complaint. It seems to me that it ended quite abruptly. There was so much action and secrets revealed, but it just...ended. Feels like loose ends to me. At least I have the comfort knowing that Clare Wright will be back again for another investigation!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I bought my first book by Dana Stabenow in Denali Park, Alaska. I loved it and still have that book, now autographed. Yes, I've met her. As such, I was prepared to love this one from the git go. So, you can imagine my surprise when, after the first chapter, I was rather lost. I actually pondered putting it aside, figuring it was just me too caught up in real life events to allow myself to be sucked in. Fortunately, I kept reading and was glad I did. While I'm not quite sold on it the way I was on that first book set in Alaska, this one in the Wild West of 1890 did eventually pull me in. I've always been a sucker for a western, bring on those cowboys, but Stabenow's usual wonderful job of setting the story in the gritty, frequently violent, rough and barely civilized mining town of Montana Roja and it's quirky cast of characters was well done. Seriously, I could picture that drunk sheriff ignoring lawlessness and the likes of a killer one day showing up at a dance the next and shyly asking heroine Clare Wright to dance, not to mention delight in well-known names like Bat Masterson and Mark Twain popping up.
As a history major, the historical aspects of the story were great fun. I'd heard of the Harvey Girls although I don't recall where. Reading Clare's daily routine as she worked undercover for the Pinkerton's to solve a murder made me wonder how she could stand up at the end of the day, let alone do any sleuthing. Those women didn't have it easy, that's for sure. Stabenow includes a Cast of Characters upfront, by the way, which I found helpful. I managed to get about halfway through before I finally had to satisfy my curiosity and skip ahead to the acknowledgements and Stabenow's notes on where the idea for the story came from and what was historically based and/or maybe tweaked just a bit. Sorry, Dana. I was impatient. I also took time to do a quick read up on the history of the Harvey Girls to refresh my memory. Worth your time if you're so inclined. Stabenow provides such a strong sense of the time and place that it makes it all the more real. (And, yes, there's a movie staring Judy Garland.)
So what's the mystery, you ask? Who killed the train conductor and what was he maybe or maybe not involved in? The murder is rather quick but, whoa, the murder itself is enough to remind you that you're reading about a lawless era when violence was often violent and quick. In addition, you'll get a great look at how train cars were hooked up, moved, and transferred from one train to the next while also being provided a mind picture of the setting the train travels through. I won't ruin the plot by saying much more but it was intriguing to see Clare working hard all day and dealing with the restrictions put on women of the era.
Bottom line, despite the slow-to-me start, I wound up enjoying this probably new series. Given my assumption Stabenow is setting us up for a continuing series, I was able to overlook the fact that end maybe wasn't tied up for us all nice and pretty, not to mention that this character driven reader chaffed at not knowing more of Clare's background until near the end. Thanks #BloomsburyUSA for giving me this early peek at not just a favorite author (and fellow Alaskan) but letting me hop a virtual time travel machine to drop into an era I've always found fascinating, the still not neat and pretty Wild West. I'll definitely be on the lookout for the next in the series.
As a history major, the historical aspects of the story were great fun. I'd heard of the Harvey Girls although I don't recall where. Reading Clare's daily routine as she worked undercover for the Pinkerton's to solve a murder made me wonder how she could stand up at the end of the day, let alone do any sleuthing. Those women didn't have it easy, that's for sure. Stabenow includes a Cast of Characters upfront, by the way, which I found helpful. I managed to get about halfway through before I finally had to satisfy my curiosity and skip ahead to the acknowledgements and Stabenow's notes on where the idea for the story came from and what was historically based and/or maybe tweaked just a bit. Sorry, Dana. I was impatient. I also took time to do a quick read up on the history of the Harvey Girls to refresh my memory. Worth your time if you're so inclined. Stabenow provides such a strong sense of the time and place that it makes it all the more real. (And, yes, there's a movie staring Judy Garland.)
So what's the mystery, you ask? Who killed the train conductor and what was he maybe or maybe not involved in? The murder is rather quick but, whoa, the murder itself is enough to remind you that you're reading about a lawless era when violence was often violent and quick. In addition, you'll get a great look at how train cars were hooked up, moved, and transferred from one train to the next while also being provided a mind picture of the setting the train travels through. I won't ruin the plot by saying much more but it was intriguing to see Clare working hard all day and dealing with the restrictions put on women of the era.
Bottom line, despite the slow-to-me start, I wound up enjoying this probably new series. Given my assumption Stabenow is setting us up for a continuing series, I was able to overlook the fact that end maybe wasn't tied up for us all nice and pretty, not to mention that this character driven reader chaffed at not knowing more of Clare's background until near the end. Thanks #BloomsburyUSA for giving me this early peek at not just a favorite author (and fellow Alaskan) but letting me hop a virtual time travel machine to drop into an era I've always found fascinating, the still not neat and pretty Wild West. I'll definitely be on the lookout for the next in the series.
August 17, 2026
From the moment I saw this title, The Harvey Girl by Dana Stabenow, I knew had to read it. I’ve been fascinated from the moment I first learned about these young women who worked in Fred Harvey’s restaurants, often along the routes of the Santa Fe railway, where Harvey kept exacting standards, requiring diner turnover within 30 minutes so passengers could get back on their train before it departed, often a trainload of workers and passengers would all disembark simultaneously and descend upon a restaurant in the Harvey chain that became well known for their excellent meals, the poised and efficient feminine wait staff, and the quick turnaround!
The fascinating thing about this book is Fred Harvey himself goes to Chicago to meet with the head of the Pinkerton detective agency because he’s had a problem with train robberies enroute to deliver supplies for his newest location at Montaña Rojas, and one of his employees was murdered in the process. He needs a young detective to work undercover as a Harvey Girl, and report her findings to him in the attempt to learn if a member of his workforce is an insider aiding in the robberies. Clare Wright, an intelligent female Pinkerton agent with an analytical mind, has just returned from a successful job in Mississippi where a bank had been robbed and she was undercover with the couple involved. It turns out being a detective is in her blood, as she is related to Bill and Bob Pinkerton (sometimes referred to as “the B’s”). After meeting Clare in their office, Fred Harvey believes she’s perfect to work as a Harvey Girl while investigating the source of the robberies; when he asked her why she wasn’t teaching after her Vassar College education, she replies, “I don’t think I’m suited for a life lived within four walls.” In March 1890 Clare is traveling on the same train as Fred Harvey bound for the Roja, New Mexico Territory, as a Pinkerton undercover operative, waiting tables as a Harvey Girl, and trying to find evidence to crack the train robbery case. She is stunned by the beauty of America’s southwest, and soon feels right at home in that environment.
The book was so engaging, I read it almost in one sitting, and the only thing that made me happier than reading this standalone book, is anticipating there will be another mystery for her to solve in the not too distant future. It seemed Fred Harvey had developed a great respect for Clare, as this passage reflects: “Harvey turned. ‘I was born in England, Miss Wright, but I am an American by choice. The idea of someone using the Fred Harvey name to steal food and ammunition meant for American troops sickens me. I want it stopped.’ She looked down at her hands and cleared her throat. ‘Perhaps..’ ‘Yes?’ ‘Is it possible that you have been put on alert by recent events, and would like to ensure that they don't repeat themselves any time soon? In which case, your request for the continued presence of a Pinkerton agent would be more than justified.’ She met his eyes. ‘I assume you could make that case?’ He gave a slow nod. ‘I could indeed.’ And the B's weren't likely to say no to any request of Fred Harvey's.”
The fascinating thing about this book is Fred Harvey himself goes to Chicago to meet with the head of the Pinkerton detective agency because he’s had a problem with train robberies enroute to deliver supplies for his newest location at Montaña Rojas, and one of his employees was murdered in the process. He needs a young detective to work undercover as a Harvey Girl, and report her findings to him in the attempt to learn if a member of his workforce is an insider aiding in the robberies. Clare Wright, an intelligent female Pinkerton agent with an analytical mind, has just returned from a successful job in Mississippi where a bank had been robbed and she was undercover with the couple involved. It turns out being a detective is in her blood, as she is related to Bill and Bob Pinkerton (sometimes referred to as “the B’s”). After meeting Clare in their office, Fred Harvey believes she’s perfect to work as a Harvey Girl while investigating the source of the robberies; when he asked her why she wasn’t teaching after her Vassar College education, she replies, “I don’t think I’m suited for a life lived within four walls.” In March 1890 Clare is traveling on the same train as Fred Harvey bound for the Roja, New Mexico Territory, as a Pinkerton undercover operative, waiting tables as a Harvey Girl, and trying to find evidence to crack the train robbery case. She is stunned by the beauty of America’s southwest, and soon feels right at home in that environment.
The book was so engaging, I read it almost in one sitting, and the only thing that made me happier than reading this standalone book, is anticipating there will be another mystery for her to solve in the not too distant future. It seemed Fred Harvey had developed a great respect for Clare, as this passage reflects: “Harvey turned. ‘I was born in England, Miss Wright, but I am an American by choice. The idea of someone using the Fred Harvey name to steal food and ammunition meant for American troops sickens me. I want it stopped.’ She looked down at her hands and cleared her throat. ‘Perhaps..’ ‘Yes?’ ‘Is it possible that you have been put on alert by recent events, and would like to ensure that they don't repeat themselves any time soon? In which case, your request for the continued presence of a Pinkerton agent would be more than justified.’ She met his eyes. ‘I assume you could make that case?’ He gave a slow nod. ‘I could indeed.’ And the B's weren't likely to say no to any request of Fred Harvey's.”
March 5, 2026
1890. The New Mexico Territory is opening up fast. The march of civilisation is not far behind, but for now lawlessness is the name of the frontier game. Entrepreneur Fred Harvey is making the most of the opportunities offered in the Wild West by extending his chain of Harvey House restaurants into New Mexico, but frequent train robberies are threatening his empire. He needs someone to go undercover in his newest restaurant in Montaña Roja to put a stop to the thefts - especially now the culprits have upped their game to include murder.
Young Pinkerton agent Clare Wright is the perfect person for the job. Disguised as one of Harvey's famous hostesses, a Harvey Girl, she heads west to investigate - armed with her notebook and trusty derringer...
I am partial to a mystery set in the good old Wild West, so I was instantly attracted to this exciting novel from Dana Stabenow - especially as it is set in the intriguing Gilded Age (a term taken from a novel by Mark Twain, who makes an entertaining appearance).
Unfurling largely from the perspective of ingenious, kick-ass detective Clare, the story begins with her wrapping-up an investigation in Bienville, Mississippi (via a fascinating prologue about her origins, which becomes relevant later in the story). A meeting with a perplexed Fred Harvey and Clare's Pinkerton employers then sends her out west to New Mexico, for an incognito job that will test her sleuthing skills and her mettle to the max.
Montaña Roja is a revelation for Clare. Awed by the scenery, shocked by the lack of competent law enforcement, and bemused by the shenanigans of the local business mogul and his cronies, she sets to work ferreting out those responsible for the daring railroad raids - even though she is exhausted by the amount of work expected of her as a Harvey Girl. With a little help from some strategically placed hired gun-types (famous faces amongst them), and the steadfast women in Montaña Roja, Clare's investigation produces surprising results that spark a highly enjoyable, fast-paced finale that channels the Wild West vibe to perfection.
Stabenow perfectly balances this gripping adventure on the knife-edge of a new territory teetering between lawlessness and civilisation. Boom town fever, and the spread of the railroad are opening up the west, and she does an excellent job of immersing you in all the contradictions of a town where killings happen openly in the streets, while robber barons build gaudy mansions funded by back-room deals, and ordinary citizens go about their lives. The plot blends western fun with a compelling crime story, and encompasses fascinating political, geographical and historical detail - much of which sent me down rabbit holes, especially about Fred Harvey and Harvey Girls, who I had not heard about before.
I galloped (pun intended) through Clare's atmospheric escapade, and cannot wait for the next instalment of the series!
Young Pinkerton agent Clare Wright is the perfect person for the job. Disguised as one of Harvey's famous hostesses, a Harvey Girl, she heads west to investigate - armed with her notebook and trusty derringer...
I am partial to a mystery set in the good old Wild West, so I was instantly attracted to this exciting novel from Dana Stabenow - especially as it is set in the intriguing Gilded Age (a term taken from a novel by Mark Twain, who makes an entertaining appearance).
Unfurling largely from the perspective of ingenious, kick-ass detective Clare, the story begins with her wrapping-up an investigation in Bienville, Mississippi (via a fascinating prologue about her origins, which becomes relevant later in the story). A meeting with a perplexed Fred Harvey and Clare's Pinkerton employers then sends her out west to New Mexico, for an incognito job that will test her sleuthing skills and her mettle to the max.
Montaña Roja is a revelation for Clare. Awed by the scenery, shocked by the lack of competent law enforcement, and bemused by the shenanigans of the local business mogul and his cronies, she sets to work ferreting out those responsible for the daring railroad raids - even though she is exhausted by the amount of work expected of her as a Harvey Girl. With a little help from some strategically placed hired gun-types (famous faces amongst them), and the steadfast women in Montaña Roja, Clare's investigation produces surprising results that spark a highly enjoyable, fast-paced finale that channels the Wild West vibe to perfection.
Stabenow perfectly balances this gripping adventure on the knife-edge of a new territory teetering between lawlessness and civilisation. Boom town fever, and the spread of the railroad are opening up the west, and she does an excellent job of immersing you in all the contradictions of a town where killings happen openly in the streets, while robber barons build gaudy mansions funded by back-room deals, and ordinary citizens go about their lives. The plot blends western fun with a compelling crime story, and encompasses fascinating political, geographical and historical detail - much of which sent me down rabbit holes, especially about Fred Harvey and Harvey Girls, who I had not heard about before.
I galloped (pun intended) through Clare's atmospheric escapade, and cannot wait for the next instalment of the series!
April 3, 2026
Novel set in 1890 USA
The Harvey Girl by Dana Stabenow features a strong female character – Clare Wright – and is a crime novel in a historical setting of post-Civil-War America. Clare Wright is a private eye, working for the famous Pinkertons detective agency, when she is tasked to work for Mr Fred Harvey. He wants to investigate the train hold-ups and robberies that are plaguing the ATSF railroad route in New Mexico Territory in the 1890s. Harvey owns and runs the eponymous Harvey Houses, a kind of hotel-restaurant chain with branches along the developing rail network. Clare is effectively an orphan, highly educated and brilliant at what she does. She also has a determined character and a mind of her own. She skilfully blends into her surroundings, using disguise and stealth to investigate on behalf of the agency’s clients.
The storyline takes Clare from her initial investigation in Mississippi, which she wraps up swiftly, to the wild west territories beyond the Rocky Mountains in New Mexico Territories. In her adopted role/disguise as a trained Harvey’s employee, she gets to know the hotel’s customers and other characters in the growing frontier town, with the aim of identifying those responsible for the robberies and murder of the train conductor. Her demure persona conceals a woman who is prepared to defend herself and take great risks to catch the culprit or culprits. Clare makes friends among the staff, earns the admiration of the menfolk and eventually the respect of her client. But she has to work out who she can trust and fend off unwanted male attention while conducting her clandestine investigations.
Stabenow’s descriptions contrast the developing township of Montaña Rossa with the ageless mountain and desert scenery surrounding the Rio Grande. There are delightfully detailed accounts of the natural world, as well as the architecture ranging from the adobe housing of the indigenous people to the grand (but somewhat tasteless) mansion of the local tycoon, Mr Gowan. The cast of characters contrasts the strictly regulated female staff of the Harvey House with the male entrepreneurs, cowboys, miners and lawless gunslingers.
The book ends in a suspenseful cliff-hanger, perfectly setting the key characters up for a sequel. One of my favourite parts of the book is the Acknowledgements chapter, where Stabenow explains her extensive research and the significance of several of the real-life characters who appear in the novel, such as Mark Twain. This book is recommended as an easy and enjoyable read and a fascinating insight into an important part of the history of the developing regions that became part of the United States of America.
#ADPR
The Harvey Girl by Dana Stabenow features a strong female character – Clare Wright – and is a crime novel in a historical setting of post-Civil-War America. Clare Wright is a private eye, working for the famous Pinkertons detective agency, when she is tasked to work for Mr Fred Harvey. He wants to investigate the train hold-ups and robberies that are plaguing the ATSF railroad route in New Mexico Territory in the 1890s. Harvey owns and runs the eponymous Harvey Houses, a kind of hotel-restaurant chain with branches along the developing rail network. Clare is effectively an orphan, highly educated and brilliant at what she does. She also has a determined character and a mind of her own. She skilfully blends into her surroundings, using disguise and stealth to investigate on behalf of the agency’s clients.
The storyline takes Clare from her initial investigation in Mississippi, which she wraps up swiftly, to the wild west territories beyond the Rocky Mountains in New Mexico Territories. In her adopted role/disguise as a trained Harvey’s employee, she gets to know the hotel’s customers and other characters in the growing frontier town, with the aim of identifying those responsible for the robberies and murder of the train conductor. Her demure persona conceals a woman who is prepared to defend herself and take great risks to catch the culprit or culprits. Clare makes friends among the staff, earns the admiration of the menfolk and eventually the respect of her client. But she has to work out who she can trust and fend off unwanted male attention while conducting her clandestine investigations.
Stabenow’s descriptions contrast the developing township of Montaña Rossa with the ageless mountain and desert scenery surrounding the Rio Grande. There are delightfully detailed accounts of the natural world, as well as the architecture ranging from the adobe housing of the indigenous people to the grand (but somewhat tasteless) mansion of the local tycoon, Mr Gowan. The cast of characters contrasts the strictly regulated female staff of the Harvey House with the male entrepreneurs, cowboys, miners and lawless gunslingers.
The book ends in a suspenseful cliff-hanger, perfectly setting the key characters up for a sequel. One of my favourite parts of the book is the Acknowledgements chapter, where Stabenow explains her extensive research and the significance of several of the real-life characters who appear in the novel, such as Mark Twain. This book is recommended as an easy and enjoyable read and a fascinating insight into an important part of the history of the developing regions that became part of the United States of America.
#ADPR
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 stars for an enjoyable historical fiction mystery set in 1890 New Mexico territory. This is book 1 in a promising new series. My wife and I read all of Dana Stabenow's Kate Shugak series and recommend the series to mystery fans. The author writes mysteries with strong, resourceful women detectives.
Clare Wright is 22 years old and works for the Pinkerton detective agency. She is asked to work undercover as a Harvey Girl at a Fred Harvey restaurant in Montana Roja, New Mexico. There have been a series of train robberies in which entire railroad boxcars of supplies destined for the Fred Harvey restaurants were stolen. Clare accepts the assignment. Fred Harvey and Robert Pinkerton explain that she must undergo the entire rigorous one month training course and work full time as a Harvey Girl, i.e., a waitress at a Harvey restaurant.
She accepts the assignment. The author has Pinkerton also bring in two other people to assist her, Tom Horn, and Bat Masterton, both actual historical figures. Clare does manage to solve the mystery, but not all the culprits are apprehended. Perhaps a lead in to the next book.
I liked the way the author developed the plot, and how she describes the main characters. She even provides a list of characters and their various jobs at the beginning of the book, which I found helpful.
There are no scenes of graphic violence or sex. Also no profanity. There are vivid descriptions of the beautiful southwest scenery.
One quote, describing Clare's outfit on the train ride from Chicago to New Mexico: "She was well aware of what he saw, a young woman in her early twenties with enough money to dress respectably if not fashionably. Her short jacket was serviceable and matched the gored skirt, both made from a light gray wool. The hem of the skirt stopped at her ankles, revealing half boots of what had been good black leather, brave beneath a layer of polish."
Thank You Zoe Giles at Head of Zeus for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#TheHarveyGirl #NetGalley.
Pub Date Mar 05 2026 |
Clare Wright is 22 years old and works for the Pinkerton detective agency. She is asked to work undercover as a Harvey Girl at a Fred Harvey restaurant in Montana Roja, New Mexico. There have been a series of train robberies in which entire railroad boxcars of supplies destined for the Fred Harvey restaurants were stolen. Clare accepts the assignment. Fred Harvey and Robert Pinkerton explain that she must undergo the entire rigorous one month training course and work full time as a Harvey Girl, i.e., a waitress at a Harvey restaurant.
She accepts the assignment. The author has Pinkerton also bring in two other people to assist her, Tom Horn, and Bat Masterton, both actual historical figures. Clare does manage to solve the mystery, but not all the culprits are apprehended. Perhaps a lead in to the next book.
I liked the way the author developed the plot, and how she describes the main characters. She even provides a list of characters and their various jobs at the beginning of the book, which I found helpful.
There are no scenes of graphic violence or sex. Also no profanity. There are vivid descriptions of the beautiful southwest scenery.
One quote, describing Clare's outfit on the train ride from Chicago to New Mexico: "She was well aware of what he saw, a young woman in her early twenties with enough money to dress respectably if not fashionably. Her short jacket was serviceable and matched the gored skirt, both made from a light gray wool. The hem of the skirt stopped at her ankles, revealing half boots of what had been good black leather, brave beneath a layer of polish."
Thank You Zoe Giles at Head of Zeus for sending me this eARC through NetGalley.
#TheHarveyGirl #NetGalley.
Pub Date Mar 05 2026 |
March 17, 2026
3.25/5 stars
I was excited to read this book because I'm a fan of the Kate Shugak series by this author.
It was interesting to read about the history of the Harvey Girls as I was not familiar with their existence. It was actually fascinating to discover this group of young women who left their homes and traveled (many times far across the US) to become waitresses/hostesses of the Harvey House restaurants. The Harvey Houses' (arguably one of the first franchises in the country) were located advantageously at stops along the US railroad system and were extremely popular with both railroad passengers and local citizens alike.
This story took place in 1890 in the New Mexico Territory, specifically the town of Montana Roja, a lawless and often dangerous place. Fred Harvey (the founder/owner of Harvey House) hires a young Pinkerton detective (Clare Wright) to go undercover and discover who is stealing from his business.
I liked Clare's character...spunky, intelligent, fiercely independent. I also thought the "Wild West" descriptions, both of the landscape and the general mayhem of the area, were well done and vivid in their detail. But somehow, I just didn't connect to this book overall, and I'm not exactly sure why. I found the writing a bit simplistic and not what I had come to expect from this author. I also did not feel as connected to the characters as I had hoped to. Yes, I liked Clare but didn't feel as if I knew her very well. However, having said this, I have a feeling this is the start of a series (as there was a bit of a cliffhanger at the end), and if so, I'm assuming we will learn more about the intrepid Ms. Wright in adventures to come.
Yes, I would probably read the next installment just to see where things might be headed in the story, but for now, I'm just slightly invested.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA / Head of Zeus - an Aries Book for providing the free early arc of The Harvey Girl for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
I was excited to read this book because I'm a fan of the Kate Shugak series by this author.
It was interesting to read about the history of the Harvey Girls as I was not familiar with their existence. It was actually fascinating to discover this group of young women who left their homes and traveled (many times far across the US) to become waitresses/hostesses of the Harvey House restaurants. The Harvey Houses' (arguably one of the first franchises in the country) were located advantageously at stops along the US railroad system and were extremely popular with both railroad passengers and local citizens alike.
This story took place in 1890 in the New Mexico Territory, specifically the town of Montana Roja, a lawless and often dangerous place. Fred Harvey (the founder/owner of Harvey House) hires a young Pinkerton detective (Clare Wright) to go undercover and discover who is stealing from his business.
I liked Clare's character...spunky, intelligent, fiercely independent. I also thought the "Wild West" descriptions, both of the landscape and the general mayhem of the area, were well done and vivid in their detail. But somehow, I just didn't connect to this book overall, and I'm not exactly sure why. I found the writing a bit simplistic and not what I had come to expect from this author. I also did not feel as connected to the characters as I had hoped to. Yes, I liked Clare but didn't feel as if I knew her very well. However, having said this, I have a feeling this is the start of a series (as there was a bit of a cliffhanger at the end), and if so, I'm assuming we will learn more about the intrepid Ms. Wright in adventures to come.
Yes, I would probably read the next installment just to see where things might be headed in the story, but for now, I'm just slightly invested.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA / Head of Zeus - an Aries Book for providing the free early arc of The Harvey Girl for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
February 28, 2026
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I have enjoyed the books of Dana Stabenow for years now. She has a few mystery series set in Alaska. She has some scifi offerings which I haven't read yet. She has written other books of a historical nature which isn't usually my thing. But a historical mystery is something I do enjoy.
The Harvey Girl is the first in a new series about Claire Wright . Claire is a Pinkerton agent sent undercover to work as a Harvey girl. Harvey has hired the Pinkerton agency to look into train robberies that are stealing his restaurant supplies. Claire is smart, resourceful and skilled. She goes a little too far a few times though.
The Gilded Age is full of robbers, barrons and wealthy crooks. Women are not treated very well. It's what the current administration is trying to recreate.
The daily life and investigations of Claire are interesting enough. The pace moves along well enough. There are the train robberies and murders, along with other oddities to figure out. A broad cast of characters is introduced and the foundation for the world is set. I was always engaged while reading. The author pulls together a lot of real characters and historical facts.
However, while there are plenty of information gathered and definite shady people and other crimes identified, the original train robberies are not really solved. I guess it is fair leaving some plot lines open for the series. The ending did not close off the mysteries clearly, but has Claire continuing to work for Harvey and going to Kansas City offices to investigate further.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I have enjoyed the books of Dana Stabenow for years now. She has a few mystery series set in Alaska. She has some scifi offerings which I haven't read yet. She has written other books of a historical nature which isn't usually my thing. But a historical mystery is something I do enjoy.
The Harvey Girl is the first in a new series about Claire Wright . Claire is a Pinkerton agent sent undercover to work as a Harvey girl. Harvey has hired the Pinkerton agency to look into train robberies that are stealing his restaurant supplies. Claire is smart, resourceful and skilled. She goes a little too far a few times though.
The Gilded Age is full of robbers, barrons and wealthy crooks. Women are not treated very well. It's what the current administration is trying to recreate.
The daily life and investigations of Claire are interesting enough. The pace moves along well enough. There are the train robberies and murders, along with other oddities to figure out. A broad cast of characters is introduced and the foundation for the world is set. I was always engaged while reading. The author pulls together a lot of real characters and historical facts.
However, while there are plenty of information gathered and definite shady people and other crimes identified, the original train robberies are not really solved. I guess it is fair leaving some plot lines open for the series. The ending did not close off the mysteries clearly, but has Claire continuing to work for Harvey and going to Kansas City offices to investigate further.
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