A Murder in Trinity Lane

Rosalynd and Steele Mysteries #2

by Magda Alexander

A forbidden passion. A dangerous secret. A truth some would kill for to keep buried.


London, 1889. Hoping society has moved on from the scandal that once shadowed her, Lady Rosalynd turns her attention to one of her most cherished causes—the Home for Unwed Mothers, a discreet refuge where poor, unmarried women can give birth in safety and dignity. But when one of the young women is found murdered in a dark alley off Trinity Lane, the fragile calm of Rosalynd’s aristocratic life is abruptly shattered.


Drawn into the case by a desperate plea, Rosalynd reluctantly turns to the one man she swore to keep at arm’s length—the enigmatic Duke of Steele. Brilliant, brooding, and far too perceptive for her comfort, Steele stirs emotions she has fought hard to suppress. Their uneasy alliance soon leads them deep into a tangled web of hidden pasts, threatened reputations, and powerful figures determined to protect their secrets—no matter the cost.


As pressure builds from both the high society drawing rooms and the shadows of power, Rosalynd must risk everything—her reputation, her safety, and a part of herself she never wished to surrender. In seeking justice, she may lose more than her good name. She may lose her heart.


A Murder in Trinity Lane , Book 2 in the Rosalynd & Steele Mysteries by USA Today bestselling author Magda Alexander, plunges readers into a world of forbidden passions, deadly secrets, and Victorian suspense. Perfect for fans of historical mystery series featuring independent women sleuths, brooding dukes, and slow-burn romance, this Victorian historical mystery will keep readers riveted until the final page.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical Mystery, Fiction, Historical Romance, Cozy Mystery, Victorian

283 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 30, 2025

Reviews

[Merry · Rating 4 out of 5]

First let me say that I am really enjoying this series and look forward to reading the next book when published. I gave the first books 5* and like the writing and it holds my interest. Now the but....Rosalynd seemed to be reckless in going after the evil doers in a way that seemed out of character and at times suffered from tstl. The romance with Steele is heating up but several series that I am reading currently have the female leads (Rosalynd is one) that don't want to get married and this is pointed out repeatedly. This would be fine if the author kept the partnership on a business level (but they don't). I guess it is a current theme for authors writing right now. I really enjoy the interaction of both the mains family, and this was some of the most enjoyable parts of the book. The mystery will continue into the next book, and I am here for it!

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Razor’s Edge

Steele and Lady Rosalynd investigate the death of a young woman who had been staying at a home for unwed mothers. The young woman was a refugee from the home of a peer then fled to the charity house supported by Rosalynd’s Society for the Advancement of Women.

Lady Rosalynd takes risks that put her into grave danger, and Steele must find a way to keep her safe, as well as his younger brother who seemed caught up in a dangerous scheme.

Magda Alexander wrote another wonderful mystery with our two “investigators” getting closer to commitment which they both swear to not want. Five stars and looking forward to Book 3 of three.

[Tina Miles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book even more than the first one. I like that the author isn’t drawing out the romance between Steel and Rosie. Things are moving along nicely. I’m anxious to see what happens in the next book which I’ve preordered.
The only thing I frown on a bit is the authors reliance on a convenient development to move the plot along such as seeing a letter that explains everything or overhearing a conversation between the villains. Nonetheless it’s an easy read and good book that I enjoyed.
I love Petunia and also Chrissie. Looks like Rosehaven is going to end up with Claire, Rosie’s best friend-which will be lovely. If they get married then that will free up Rosie to marry Steel because she won’t be required to ‘mother’ her sisters anymore.

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well this is interesting. A cozy mystery has me up in arms because it's NOT doing it right!

I was shocked by how "into" the first book, A Murder in Mayfair, when I read it late last year. I'm a picky cozy mystery reader because I don't care if a book has spice or not-> aka a "cozy".... but I want a good STORY. Not fluffy. A little or a lot of grit with characters/murder/motives is fine. Not necessarily dark dark, serial killer skinning people dark but you know, a little realistic. And I would say Murder in Mayfair qualifies as fluffy and sanitized from the ills of society with a precocious 8 yr old as a cherry on top. It was totally out of my "norm" but I enjoyed it. The characters, the extra large family, Rosalynd being independent, smart and well rounded. Duke of Steel... who was super proper and bossy but also recognized his attraction for the smart and independent Rosalynd.

So instead of a second installment where we have two people who are attracted to each other but neither wants a intense relationship/marriage so you know... YEARNING, slow burn with some great banter and a push/pull dance... A Murder in Trinity Lane fast forwards past the "good stuff" I was looking forward to reading about.

And let me just say that the mystery was great and the writing sharp.

The issue was Rosalynd and the Duke of Steel. Instead of a slower, getting to know each other because of another mystery/forced proximity to work together... they both dialed up their stubbornness to 100. Instead of a slow burn realization that they want each other, BOOM. Kissing in the middle of a dangerous fog filled alley in London because sure, that makes sense. In danger and might get murdered... let's make out! Rosalynd, signing herself up for every single TSTL action possible to prove her independence. Steel throwing around his authority and issuing orders.

Why? I was so looking forward to watching these two get a clue over the course of a few books. I guess I'll have to read the 3rd one to see where we go from here.

[marita lazarus · Rating 4 out of 5]

we are getting close to Bridgerton scandal... but NOT YET, oh yeah and there's a murder, a mystery, a subplot and a cliff hanger...

oh please do say Lady Rosalynd will one day become Lady Steele - the Duchess....

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A griping story of murder and drugs taking place in England,1889. Lady Rosalynd and the Duke of Steele combine forces to solve the mystery.L
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kirsty · Rating 3 out of 5]

OK, but it's full of hidden menace which isn't hidden at all, and it's got that "I know something you don't know" theme running though it which always offends me ( and reminds me of a particularly irritating boss, which doesn't help!). Their relationship is frustrating rather than tantalising, and very slow to develop, I suppose to keep you reading the series. It feels slow to read and takes a long time to get interesting. I kept putting it away and reading something else, until finally skip-reading to get it finished. It's a reasonable plot, good denoument, deeply irritating epilogue, just not for me, rather than to be avoided. I suspect it's a better read than I made it sound, sorry about that.

[Sally Orchard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Lady Rosalynd and the Duke come together to investigate the murder of a girl murdered from a mother and baby home.
I loved the tension this book brought by the sheer danger of the back streets of London in Victorian London
Pure magic
Can't wait for the next book in this series.

[Jane Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Another excellent installment in this series. Rosalynd becomes involved in the murder of an unwed mother, Steele works to keep his brother from ruin and their investigations overlap.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Booksirens for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is book 2 of the Rosalynd and Steele series. Lady Rosalynd is continuing her self-determined roles in life, managing her brother's household, helping manage and raise her large brood of siblings, and leading other women in her class in various charities and moving the suffrage movement forward. She has determined that she will remain a spinster to move forward with these goals, and has since been avoiding the Duke of Steele, despite their two households being across from one another.

Steele likewise is busy with his various responsibilities as a Duke, and life is further complicated when his mother brings forward her concerns about his wayward brother. Steele was trying to control his wastrel behaviour, ending with cutting off his allowance, but has discovered that his brother is now entangled with dangerous figures and in his investigations to try to extricate him.

Their paths crosse again when Rosalynd finds herself drawn into a murder investigation when a woman at one of her charities is lured away and murdered. Steele offers aid to Rosalynd, while keeping his family business private, but soon discovers that the two situations are somehow linked. Rosalynd and Steele butt heads when his investigations lead to increasing threats to him and those near to him, and he becomes protective of the woman who is becoming more important to him the more time they spend together. But Rosalynd is brave, at times rashly so, and determined not to be cut out of the investigation, and in finding justice for the women in her care.

Again, I love the various characters in this story, including the various siblings and their relationships and engagement with Rosalynd and Steele. This includes her matchmaking debutante sister, Chryssie, and the adorable baby of the family who has no qualms about invading Steele's household and inviting herself to tea and biscuits, while charming him and his household at the same time. This story is a solid murder mystery that involves class snobbery, and how women were treated, especially those in the lower class. But there is a growing connection between Steele and Rosalynd that is observed by others that could prove to be dangerous in the future as Steele steps into the underworld of organized crime, and refuses to allow his family or himself to be manipulated and under an unseen crime lord's power. There are shivers of anticipation for the future of Steele in the light of this continued menace. And now that they have seen him with Rosalynd, and observed his care for her, she is also a potential target as well.

Love the brewing awareness and tension between Rosalynd and Steele, and what it bodes for their future.

4.5 stars out of 5

[Carol Newman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun and cleverly written

The story was interesting, fun,and intelligently written. Realistic in the details of that time. There was also humor which I appreciate and adventure.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Steele! You will enjoy this series if you like Miss Scarlet and and Anna Lee Huber.

[Joyceanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

love this new series! The characters are delightful and fun.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sloppy writing and poor editing seem to be the norm these days; they certainly play a role in this book. In addition, Alexander seems devoted to the “headstrong heroine does stupid things” trope that should have been abandoned at least fifty years ago.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my! I can’t wait for the next book.

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this Victorian mystery from a new to me author, that is mixed with a blossoming romance between the two protagonists. The plot is very well written, well paced, in dual FOV past tense, and is full of action, suspense, danger and twists. Rosalynd and Steele are very likable, but still far from being a well-coordinated team. Both still investigate mainly independently of each other and keep information to themselves. They also have very different personalities. Rosalynd is impulsive and sometimes reckless, while Steele is very controlled, protective, and arrogant. The attraction between the two is palpable from the start and promising for the next installments. I also really liked the supporting characters, especially Rosalynd's siblings, their servants and the banter and bond between them.
Unfortunately, I haven't read the first part of the series yet, so I don't know their backstories, but I will definitely catch up soon and recommend reading the series in order. The story ends with a cliffhanger.

During her visit to the Home for Unwed Mothers in St. Agnes in Clerkenwell, Lady Rosalynd meets the new resident Elsie, who is murdered shortly afterwards. Rosalynd decides to investigate in order to obtain justice for the victim and receives support from her neighbor, the Duke of Steele, with whom she has already solved a murder case.
At the same time, Steele tries to save his wayward younger brother Philip from ruioand discovers that he is also somehow involved in the case and that Rosalynd is putting herself in increasing danger with her reckless solo actions...

If you like slow-burn Victorian mystery romances with great world building, endearing characters and suspense, this book is for you.

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

We have who are fast becoming my favorite dynamic duo! The Duke of Steele and Lady Rosalynd are involved in another case with more twists and turns and whispers of scandal than all the ones before!

Lady Rosalynd has been called to St Agnes Home of unwed Mothers. A young girl has been murdered in the alley near Trinity Lane. She has already given birth but clues lead to the home of a peer!

Rosalynd enlists the aid of Steele to find out why and whom?

There are several times in this story Rosalynd acts like she is not intelligent at all! She supports a home for unwed mothers umm how does she think this women some just teenagers got that way???

When she feels like she was being “managed” she withheld valuable information from Steele which could have greatly reduced the risks!

She has seen and investigated murder umm Lady that should tell you that there are evil people “peers” who will stop at nothing to keep their secrets!

Steele had to rescue her so many times from danger it was becoming his full time job beyond his responsibilities to his family and the House of Lords! The stars are for Steele he cares deeply for Rosalynd and as a real man he keeps some of the danger from her! Rosalynd needs to grow up! You have several younger siblings and you keep not only flirting with scandal at all hours but putting both feet in it! Their romance is heating up and I admire Steeles persistence in finding the murderer and his feelings for Rosalynd! This time she and another victim almost became casualties of war! Hopefully she will be better armed intellectually to note Steele is protecting you not restricting you! Bravo! Well done!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Salwa Smz · Rating 5 out of 5]

​I tremendously enjoyed this novel, and indeed, the entire series is simply incredible. This book delivers on every front, offering a compelling blend of deep characterization and unpredictable plotting.
​The protagonists, Lady Rosamund and Duke Steele, are a breath of fresh air. They are consistently intelligent, rational, and mature. Their dynamic, defined by realistic, smart dialogue, avoids the pitfalls of childish banter. They say what is necessary, though the occasional argument during a tense case investigation adds a satisfying layer of human complexity.
​The plot is a masterful balance of unpredictability, tension, and mystery, perfectly complemented by a well-measured dose of romance—with absolutely no unnecessary or "daring" scenes, as I prefer.

What truly captivated me is the clever use of the first-person perspective. The author rotates chapters between Lady Rosamund and Duke Steele, a technique that enriches the narrative without causing confusion thanks to clear narrative signals. This allows the reader to be fully immersed in both main characters' minds.
​The author’s descriptive writing style is nothing short of amazing, creating a palpable, mysterious Gothic atmosphere. I truly felt transported to Victorian London. I could practically smell the coal-infused air and the stingy streets, hear the rattling carriages, and feel every nuanced emotion the characters described. The vocabulary choice is spot-on, enhancing the period feel.
​It is rare to find an excellent historical mystery—my favourite genre—that achieves such a perfect balance of plot, style, and language. I am completely hooked on Lady Rosamund and Duke Steele and sincerely hope this series continues for a very long time!

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Murder in Trinity Lane is Book two of the Rosalind and Steele Mysteries by Magda Alexander and this one continues with more mystery, intrigue, and excitement.

Lady Rosalind’s life is full to the brim with managing her brother’s household and helping to raise her younger siblings. She also participates in various charities with other women of her social standing and continues to push the women’s suffrage movement all in the hope of putting as much distance between herself and Steele.

The duke continues his role in the House of Lords as well as managing his younger brother who has been leading a wastrel life that has their mother alarmed. When Steele tries to cut off his allowance in the hope of controlling his behaviour, he discovers that his brother is involved with a dangerous group of people and tries to extricate him.

When one of the women at the home for unwed mothers Rosalind volunteers at turns up murdered, her delving into the murder brings the realisation to both Rosalind and Steele that there are similar details in both cases; they proceed to work together. Rosalind does take many risks, and Steele is right there beside her ensuring he is able to protect her.

The many twists and turns and the aspects of danger that Rosalind finds herself in, leaves Steele having to come to her rescue her many times and leaves you turning pages to find out what happens. All in a wonderful mystery that had me guessing till the end. I love the slow burn romance of Rosalind and Steele and cannot wait to read the next book in the series. I received an ARC from the publishers and Book Sirens and submit my honest review voluntarily.

[Florida Girl Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! A Murder in Trinity Lane by Magda Alexander is a fantastic book! I I am new to her work and I am already searching previous titles in the series.
I was immediately drawn into the mystery with its sharp, crisp writing much like the female main character, Lady Rosalynd. She has a brilliant mind, a courageous spirit and a disregard for her own safety. She is determined to find and bring to justice the killer of a young women who lived at the home for unwed mothers sponsored by her women's group. Her investigative abilities are bound by the restrictive code of behavior. She regretfully approaches the equally brilliant, gorgeous, mysterious Duke of Steele for assistance resulting in a story filled with danger, unexpected complications and enough steam to fog a carriage window. Due to Rosalynd's pride and stubbornness, she is thrown into situations that made me want to shout! The romance and attraction between Rosalyn and Steele sizzles even thought both wrestle with their growing feeling for the other.
The Rosalynd and Steele Series is one of the best I have read, and I am really looking forward to reading more in this exceptional series.
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my reading experience.

[Priscilla Lawal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Magda Alexander’s A Murder in Trinity Lane, the second in the Rosalynd and Steele Mysteries, kicks off at a suffrage meeting at Rosehaven House. I really liked how it showed Lady Rosalynd’s fierce commitment to women’s rights, standing up for the vulnerable despite her place as a spinster in the rigid British aristocracy.I was captivated by that level of bravery even without any official connection to the police. She couldn't resist delving deeper into the truth of the murder, even if it put her in peril at every turn.

The Duke of Steele is still that steady, loyal man, deeply devoted to his household and especially to Rosalynd, which made the story very emotional. The murder of Elsie had me guessing who was behind it, and the new upcoming character, he certainly added another layer of mystery that kept things intriguing. I did wish for more insight into the other main characters, especially the close relatives, but since this is a series, I’m hopeful we’ll get more in the next book. Magda definitely kept me curious with this one it’s a solid read.

I received an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of Lady Rosalynd’s causes is supporting a home for unwed mothers. When she finds out that one of the young women, a talented seamstress, has been found dead, she vows to capture the culprit. Soon, the Duke of Steele is involved. The pair quickly discovers that the clues reach well into the ranks of Society. In the meantime, Steele’s brother is deeply in debt to a mysterious man who no one knows, but of whom everyone is terrified. The action takes Rosalynd and Steele to the seediest parts of London, including Whitechapel, home to the notorious Jack the Ripper.

“A Murder in Trinity Lane” is fast-paced with layers of mystery. The slow-burn romance between Rosalynd and Steele is just right. Rosalynd’s youngest sister, Petunia, is delightful. This is a fast read with plenty to like.

This book is great for readers who enjoy historical mysteries and slow-burn romances. It is the second in a series, and is probably best read as part of the series (don’t forget to read the prequel).

I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens and Magda Alexander, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jeriann Fisher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a Treat!

Magda Alexander gives us the terrific book 2 of her mystery series featuring the enigmatic, loner Duke of Steel and his neighbor, Lady Rosalynd Rosehaven.

I like a good mystery that I can’t figure out and this was a good one. Both the Duke and Lady Rosalynd are drawn into the plight of unwed mothers and meanwhile, the Duke is dealing with a wayward younger brother who’s in over his head with gambling. Lady Rosalynd pushes the boundaries of propriety by working with Steel but she can’t seem to stop.

Steel and Rosalynd seem to be inching closer to some sort of something between them as he is drawn out of his grief from the loss of his wife years before. There is just enough hint of a romance to make things interesting. And. I appreciate how the secondary characters are interesting but do not take over the storyline from our main couple.

This is a great mystery well done and definitely worth the read so do yourself a treat and do not miss this series. I will be waiting very impatiently for the next installment which I don’t think comes till January.I would start with book one.

I received an advanced copy for free, but I am voluntarily leaving this review .

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story about these 2 fabulous characters, Duke Steele and Rosalyde. Full of mystery, intrigue, emotions, society, villains, murder, drama and so many twists that just keeps you turning the pages. Rosalyde and her committee that support St. Agnes' home for women are meeting to discuss the need to raise more money for them. When she receives a note to come back as one of the women is missing and had been murdered. Steele is looking at what his brother, Philip is up too. they cross over to solve this murder. As they find more information about the killer other issues keep coming to light. Steele teaches Rosalyde how to shoot a gun to protect herself. Uncomfortable with it but it will come in handy when she needs it. They share a couple of kisses yet still have trouble stepping over the line to get to their happily ever after. Will have to wait for the next story to see and hope that they become a couple. Would strongly recommend to others plus the rest in the series.

I received this story and leave an unbiased, honest review.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

At only the second book in this series, I am already totally in love with it...the characters, the plotlines, the writing, the setting...everything just works together so well.

This plot finds Rosalynd and Steele working together to discover the villain behind the murder of a young unwed mother from a charity home that Rosalynd supports. There's also a personal plot for Steele involving his younger brother's troubles.

Rosalynd and Steele are both individually smart, strong and decisive characters, but together they are so much more. I love that this story has both fraught moments of danger and intrigue while also being interwoven with sweet moments of humor and surprise.

If I've piqued your interest, I'd recommend going back to the beginning with A Murder in Mayfair for continuity's sake.

Looking forward to the next outing with Rosalynd and Steele.

[Cri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just can't get enough of this series!

The characters are brilliantly depicted, the story perfectly thought out and the romance lurking in the shadows.

Rosalynd can't suffer injustice and when a guest to an institution she supports is found dead, she has to look into it.

Steele won't let her do it alone aiding her investigation and trying to protect her every step of the way.

Their stubbornness will put their lives and reputations in danger, but something marvelous is just starting to bloom.

A really pleasant reading, difficult to put down, I am eager to jump into the next book in this series!

I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.

[LV · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another mystery full of intrigue and tension. I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting, now I'm craving more of Rosalynd and Steele's adventures.

The novel starts a month after the last, with our characters trying to get back to normality. Due to that there is a bit of a slow pace to start, but don't let that fool you. The plot is much more intricate that the last, uncovering the dark abuse in Victorian society and hinting at a greater foe than is realised.

The relationship between Rosalynd and Steele also hottens up and we still get to enjoy the fun dynamics of Rosalynd's family.

Perfect for fans of the Miss Scarlett and the Duke and the Bow Street Duchess mysteries. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Valeri Sullivan (vsulvn29) · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘That was the moment I understood - truly understood - how dangerous the Duke of Steel could be.’

Rosalynd is up to her neck in a new murder mystery and quite unaware of exactly how much danger she’s placing herself in, but the Duke definitely is and it’s driving him crazy. When it hits even closer to home for him when one of the players in her case turns out to be his younger, irresponsible brother, the Duke has his hands full trying to rein in his brother and Rosalynd while not compromising Rosalynd’s and his reputations in a London full of busybodies. This one flies by with added hijinks from Petunia, a trip through the season with Chrissy and Cosmo falling into something with newly widowed Claire while leaving us hanging with the threat of Mr. Drayton. Wonderful.

[Pat Robinson]

Rosalynd and Steele are up to their necks in trouble once again. How the author twists this story is exceptional and leaves the reader guessing who the villain really is until close to the end. I adore the slow-burn of their relationship and how it is blooming. Petunia is present in her naturally adorable way, which gives great comic relief. The author does a delicious job of describing the underbelly of society that makes you really want to take a bath! The epilogue is the set-up for the next story and promises to be very interesting and mysterious. A really good mystery with a touch of romance!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, though I wished I had read the first book in the series to get the background story of the main characters. It was a pretty good mystery and well written. Much of it was very serious but the 7 year old, Petunia, added some enjoyment to the book. I enjoyed the relationship between Rosalynd and the Duke though I didn't understand why they thought they could not be together and why neither wanted to marry. The ending was a bit fuzzy as to their relationship, probably because there is another book in the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.