Murder by Moonrise

Dr. Julia Lewis #3

by Patrice McDonough

London’s first woman doctor and a skeptical Scotland Yard detective find their holidays sidelined by a murderer threatening the royal family in this historically rich, gritty mystery set in Victorian London.

1867: For commoners and nobility alike, the Isle of Wight is an ideal holiday destination. Queen Victoria and her family frequently spend time at Osborne House, their stunning coastal residence. For the next few days the island will also be home to Dr. Julia Lewis, who is traveling with her grandfather and her great-aunt. But despite the pleasant surroundings, Julia is beset by worries.

Julia and Inspector Richard Tennant grew close during their last investigation, but he abruptly left England on a dangerous chase. She has heard nothing from him in weeks; meanwhile her maid, Kate, is nervous about rising anti-Irish sentiment. Editorials call for harsh retaliation against those determined to rid Ireland of British rule.

When Julia is called to perform an autopsy on drowning victim Lizzie Dowling, a young, Irish-born servant at Osborne House and a favorite of Princess Louise, she discovers that the girl was pregnant. Was her death a suicide? The distraught princess is eager for answers, and as Julia digs deeper, a second tragedy points to murder and perhaps a political scandal. There are rumors of smugglers funneling weapons to Ireland—and assassins who would target the Queen herself.

Motives abound but time is in short supply—and every day brings deeper urgency and threats that neither riches nor royalty may withstand . . .

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical Mystery, Audiobook, Fiction, Historical, Mystery Thriller

320 pages, Hardcover

Published February 24, 2026

About the author

Patrice McDonough is the author of the Dr. Julia Lewis Mystery series set in Victorian England. MURDER BY LAMPLIGHT and A SLASH OF EMERALD are the first two books in the series. She is a native of the Garden State, has a master’s degree in history from Rutgers University/NJIT. She taught history and served as Department Chair at Immaculate Heart Academy in Washington Township, NJ, a college preparatory high school for girls, was named an Outstanding Educator by the Archdiocese of Newark in 1995, and is a member of the Historical Writers of America, the Mystery Writers of America, and the Historical Novels Society. She spends her leisure time traveling, sailing, missing puts on the golf course, and reading the histories, mysteries, and historical novels piled high on her night table.

Book #3 is out: MURDER BY MOONRISE. Two more Dr. Julia Lewis Mysteries will follow it!

Reviews

[Dawn Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really great book; this has been such a great series for me and I am so glad that I got to read it, I must admit I am sad that there will be no more books, but I am also very glad the series ended so well.

Filled with intrigue, murder, the Royals, the Irish Struggle [this was handled very well IMO], and Dr. Julia's life issues, as well as several happenings that made me sit on the edge of my seat, this was an absolutely smashing read [be sure to read the excellent author's note at the end; that was some really great information and really adds to what you learn in the book], and I believe that if you love good historical mysteries, then you will love this series as much as I do and therefore I highly recommend it.

It is always difficult when you get a new narrator in the 3rd book of the series, and initially, I was unsure how it would go for me, but then I settled in and WOW! Marian Hussey does an absolutely amazing job and I really loved her narration of this story. I really look forward to listening to her elsewhere - well done!!

Thank you to NetGalley, Patrice McDonough, Marian Hussey - Narrator, Kensington Publishing/Kensington and HighBridge/Highbridge Audio for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.

[Caroline · Rating 5 out of 5]

This mystery is fantastic! Best of the series, hands down. I’m never certain about using real historical people during fictional events, but the author seamlessly blended everything together. It’s just so, so good. Thanks to Kensington for the ARC.

[Debra Jo Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a solid competent woman mystery set in Victorian London. This is my current favorite genre.

Book 1 still reigns.
This one was stronger than book 2, but the suspect list felt a little crowded and occasionally distracting.

That said, the character and relationship development keeps me invested. I’ll absolutely be back for book 4.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another strong entry in this series. I have read the first two books and enjoyed them, and this book continues that trend. I think I liked it a little better than book 2.

If you've read the first 2 stories, you know Richard had left to hunt bad guys solo in the last book. I was a little worried that Julia and Richard would spend most of this book apart, but McDonough wastes little time in teaming them up again. Here, Julia is drawn into a conspiracy involving the royal family, so we get to see some famous faces from British Royalty, including a cameo from Queen Victoria herself at one point. The pacing is quick; I felt like the story read quickly, and all the characters are as likeable as ever. I found the new characters interesting and well-fleshed out as well.

I also enjoy that Julia is drawn into the case in logical ways that make sense - she gets involved because her medical knowledge is needed, not because she's doing something stupid or there's some kind of plot gymnastics to put her at the scene of a crime. I like cozy and historical mysteries, but sometimes the way heroines get involved in the story is so ridiculous it's hard to believe, even in a genre that already stretches credibility. Julia being a doctor provides McDonough with a perfectly sensible way to attach her to cases. If you like a good historical mystery, you can't go wrong with this series.

[Pk]

NetGalley Review: Murder by Moonrise by Patrice McDonough

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing an Advanced Reading Copy in exchange for an honest review.

Murder by Moonrise is the third book in Patrice McDonough’s historical mystery series featuring Dr. Julia Lewis, set in 1867. While I enjoy this series overall, this installment didn’t immediately draw me in as strongly as the first two.

Dr. Julia Lewis remains a compelling protagonist—a strong, intelligent woman practicing in a profession not open to women at the time. McDonough continues to handle Julia’s place in this world in a way that feels historically grounded and believable.

The mystery unfolds at a slower pace, particularly at the beginning, and the introduction of a third point-of-view character occasionally pulled me out of the story. Although I liked this character and would happily read a series centered around her, I found myself more invested in the established main characters.

That said, once the story settles in, the familiar mix of historical detail, investigation, and character development works well. I also enjoy the ongoing slow-burn romance.

A solid continuation of the series that longtime fans will still appreciate.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

1867: For commoners and nobility alike, the Isle of Wight is an ideal holiday destination. Queen Victoria and her family frequently spend time at Osborne House, their stunning coastal residence. For the next few days the island will also be home to Dr. Julia Lewis, who is traveling with her grandfather and her great-aunt. Julia and Inspector Richard Tennant grew close during their last investigation, but he abruptly left England on a dangerous chase. She has heard nothing from him in weeks; meanwhile her maid, Kate, is nervous about rising anti-Irish sentiment. When Julia is called to perform an autopsy on drowning victim Lizzie Dowling, a young, Irish-born servant at Osborne House and a favourite of Princess Louise, she discovers that the girl was pregnant.
The third book in the series & I’ve liked each one more than the last, probably as I get to know Julia. An interesting case, the book starts slowly but the pace soon racks up. There are twists & turns & I was left guessing. I also liked the way the author interwove fact & fiction. Strong characters & a well plotted story had me reading this in two sittings
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Samantha · Rating 2 out of 5]

I tend to love Victorian mysteries but alas, this one was not for me.

I generally don’t like medical professionals or doctors as protagonists or medical detail as plot for a mystery, and if you do, you’ll probably enjoy this more than I did.

The mystery itself is fine structurally, but it’s not very immersive. There’s not much sense of place, and the descriptive and historical content is minimally interesting. In all I think the story flowed well, but I missed the kind of world building that makes you want to be there and teaches you something about the time period.

I’m not sure the way the royals were included here worked all that well either, though it did make for more interesting reading than in other parts of the book. The writing itself is fine and again, if you like medical personnel as the focus of a mystery, this will likely hit better for you than it did for me.

*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ending gave the same vibes as Mr. Darcy walking through the misty fields to declare his love in Pride & Prejudice (2005) and I LOVED IT

[aishareadsnrambles · Rating 2 out of 5]

REVIEW
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

STORYLINE :
The storyline was disappointing. This book is about a murdered young woman and the Irish rebellion. The detective work was really bad. I didn't feel like they discovered anything. The whole case was blown open because the culprit left somethings not because of the detectives. Same with the Irish rebellion. In addition, I didn't like how the Irish rebellion and the English royals were written. The English, especially the royals, are guilty of colonisation, killing and starving the natives (nothing has changed now). Same with the Irish Rebellion, portrayed as terrorists and the actual terrorists portrayed as victims. I didn't like it.

CHARACTERS:
As usual, the characters were phenomenal, especially Julia, a medical doctor, a pioneer in her field then. I loved reading her POV. Richard, the inspector is okay too, but I didn't really like how he was portrayed in this book. He was scattered, and I didn't see Richard as a man, just a robot inspector.
I liked Lady Styles because I learnt what English ladies in waiting did, although I think her POV was unnecessary, to be honest.

WRITING STYLE:
It was okay, but the chapters were too long. I hate long chapters. The book was well written, and there was no confusion despite the fact that it's one in a series.

SETTINGS:
The settings were okay, and well described from Julia's clinic to the Royal households.

OVERALL:
Unfortunately, I didn't really like this particular book in the series. I've read and liked the first two books in the series, and I have the intention to continue the series, especially with the ending here. Julia and Richard are amazing characters, and I would love to see more of them

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

In 1867 London, the Isle of Wight was a holiday destination, one even favored by the royal family. Queen Victoria had a home there and was often in residence. In our story, Dr. Julia Lewis is vacationing on the Isle of Wight with her grandparents and missing and wondering about Detective Richard Tennant, who has been abroad and on the hunt for a villain for months. She hasn’t heard from him and alongside worrying that he’s OK, she’s also worried that she was too forward, and that he doesn’t feel about her as she does about him.

While she’s on the Isle of Wight she’s asked to do an autopsy on a drowning victim. The girl turns out to have been a member of the royal household. Back in London, the royal household in the form of the Princess of Wales’ lady in waiting, Susan, Lady Styles, not only gives Julia some work in the form of private patients from the royal household but shares that she’s been waiting to talk with the dead girl’s sister. The sister never turns up, and when a body is discovered, the returned Detective Tennant asks Julia to take the case.

This is a story of the renewal of the relationship between Julia and Richard, and while at first they are both awkward around one another, things warm up by the end of the book. Meanwhile, McDonough’s portrayal of a working doctor in Victorian London – and a female doctor, no less – is excellent. Julia runs her grandfather’s clinic – he is technically retired – and she’s a consultant to the police, performing autopsies for them.
Meanwhile, her connection to Lady Styles blossoms as she brings different members of the royal household to Julia’s private offices for a consultation. The most prominent royal in the narrative is Princess Louise, Queen Victoria’s sixth child, and something of a free spirit. She also sees the Princess of Wales, Alix, who was experiencing mysterious lameness and increasing deafness at a young age. The fact that Julia is a woman allows her to diagnose some of the issues the women are experiencing that have been discounted by male doctors.

Though they are side characters, McDonough vividly illuminates both the widowed and reclusive Queen as well as her – what we might now think of as a “body man” – John Brown, who appears to be heartily disliked by the royal household as well as the Queen’s family.

The plot involving the two dead girls appears to be tied to Irish unrest and attacks in London, and McDonough narrows the focus to a clever assassin, which tightens the plot and amps up the suspense. This book was much better paced and focused than the second book. I really love this series and I love the main character, and find her work as a London doctor fascinating, as was the insight here into the royal family. These books very much remind me of the late, great Victoria Thompson’s wonderful gaslight series, sharing with her books vivid characterizations and settings as well as tight and interesting stories. This is my favorite in the series to date.

[Donne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really getting invested in this series of a Victorian era, British, female doctor breaking down stereotypes and making a name for herself. Patrice McDonough says she was inspired by her fascination with real British doctors Elizabeth Blackwell and Elizabeth Garrett Anderson. Dr Julia was educated in an American medical school but passed the British medical licensing exams (through a loophole) and, by law, Britain had to grant her a license to practice. Eventually, she obtains a position with Scotland Yard as a Medical Examiner.

As the book summary states, there is a lot going on here. First and foremost, Det Richard Tennant is finally back and is now chasing gun smugglers rumored to be Irish immigrants trying to overthrow British rule in Ireland. The Fenian’s have recently been making threats against the royal family. There is also the murder of a maid, Lizzie, who served on the Queen’s household staff.

There is also the storyline of Dr Julia and Det Richard trying to pick up where they left off six months ago, when Det Richard suddenly just took off chasing a criminal that got away from him. Up until now, the romantic aspirations of these two had become so awkward, it was actually kind of funny to read. However, we’re past that point and it’s now become kind of ridiculous the way these two adults stumble around each other. None of this is a spoiler since it’s basically how the story started.

Most of the story revolves around the murder investigation of Lizzie and Scotland Yard’s case of the Irish smugglers. By the second half, the murders are piling up, and the two cases/investigations start to merge. It comes with some very scary and intense scenes for Det Richard and especially Dr Julia. However, LOVED the ending! Hallelujah!!! I look forward to the next installment to see the direction that McDonough takes the series.

The continuing character development of Dr Julia and Det Richard was well done as a few other characters like Susan and Princess Louise were well done. I hope we see more of these two characters in future installments. The pacing was steady to fast in the second half. The storylines were very interesting, and the writing was enthralling and completely captured my attention and had me looking forward to getting back to it every time I had to put it down. I flipped back and forth between the ebook and audiobook that allowed me to enjoy this story whenever I wanted to over a long and lazy holiday weekend. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.4 and for me, that makes it the best installment of the series – so far. I will be rounding it down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley, Kensington Publishing and Highbridge Audio for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

#NetGalley #KensingtonPublishing #HighbridgeAudio #MurderbyMoonrise

[Delicious Cheese · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Julia and Richard, for a wonderful journey and thank you, Patrice, for writing a great series. I find it was a success and wish to see more of your creations in the future.

In my impression Dr. Julia Lewis series is more of a group portrait that uses murder mystery to let us look at a bigger picture that was part of the history to which we can relate to even in our times instead of being a platform for characters to showcase themselves in the face of someone's tragedy.
Patrice masterfully wove together facts and fiction, but treated her subject with care.
When I read it I had this feeling that I'm reading more of a factual story instead of author wanting to make you lean towards certain way of thinking. She delicately let you feel what you want to feel after finishing reading. Even the involvement of royal family. I am usually skeptical when it comes to involving real historical figures, but I found that portrayal was pretty neutral and didn't try to whitewash anyone. E.g. Bertie was unfaithful and it's a known fact, Victoria was a difficult mother, also pretty known fact (expressed through her children, like Princess Louise). If you follow Patrice did not make any of them express strong opinions about the situation. Instead we see more often lower class average citizen express their dislike of Irish with the growing anti-Irish sentiment of that time, which is true to the fact that when something happens it's the masses who are suffering. Same with the IB, here expressed through McGrath, although you know the cause of it, but it's also true that there were innocent victims like from Clerkenwell or like that worker who was stabbed just because he was Irish. Like O'Malley said after Richard read part of Brigid's diary that this story is told thousands of time, because it's true story for many people.
So the overall impression I was left with is how the situation was multi-layered.
This is why I liked the plot and how it developed and how it concluded.

As for Julia and Richard. I am glad for their slow burn and that their love is subtle compared to the rest of the story. I am glad that Patrice didn't make them a cliche pair too. They're mature people who did not have the best beginning, but grew close eventually and cared for each other. Julia has her own ideas and her life was figured out, she had her practice and she would have been okay even without marriage. But the good thing is that Julia didn't change for love, she still is herself, but she found a man who will allow her to be herself who loves and respects her for who she is.

Once again, thank you, it was wonderful.

[Lioba · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC-Review: 4,5 Stars
"I see I am up against that most formidable of persons, the patient man."

Murder by Moonrise follows the young female doctor Julia Lewis in the Victorian Time Periods. An Irish maid of the queens household is found drowned in a holy well of the ruined abbey close by Molbourough House. Her sister is informed and wishes to share information with Lady Susan Styles, the lady in waiting of the Princess Alexandra and Princess Louise. But she never arrived to the arranged meeting. All while this the Irish population is a powder keg, with threats flying through the air. Julia makes her way with Inspector Tennant through the highest society to find the truth out and give aid where she can.

I enjoyed the read of Murder by Moonrise. Though at the beginning the many characters turned my head around and I often forgot who was who again. Making it hard to remember who had been where again and who was suspicious.

To me it was clear that a lot of research flowed into this book and the plot. Making it a delight to follow. I especially enjoyed the Authors Note where a few historical things are explained and detangled, with several additional materials about Victoria and her family, as well as the history of Ireland. I greatly appreciated that.

The characters are very well written. You can read this book without having to know the former books though I do think I might have understood Julian and Tennenant a lot quicker as characters if I had read the series before. But it was not needed to follow the plot and everything was explained nicely as to why they were the way the were in their relationship. As I said above at the start the amount of characters with the royal court made my head spin a bit, trying to sort them together and recall who was where and did what officially. Later in the book it got less overwhelming or maybe I had gotten used to it by then.

The plot follows three main people, my personal favorite was Lady Styles. She was fascinating to me. McDonough guides you through an exciting search with the emotions of many people - including the complex situation of the Irish population with the British empire and royal family. It also touches onto the medical practices and how women had less rights then. And how it all falls together into tragedy and desperation.

For anyone who is interested in a murder mystery with political plots this is a great book to pick up and read!

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25/5 stars

Another solid addition to a favorite historical mystery series.

This book picks up immediately following the prior one with Richard basically having suddenly gone AWOL from London for several months in pursuit of a dangerous and elusive criminal. While he and Julia have exchanged a few letters, they have been few and far between leaving Julia to wonder where their relationship will stand on his return.

In the meantime, Julia (as London's first female doctor) finds herself becoming pulled into royal intrigue as she is called to examine several murder victims who are also connected to the royal family. Are the victims connected to the Irish Fenian threat or another thread from the past?

This story had lots of interesting characters (both royals and their close confidants), lots of travel to various royal residences (Osborne House and Windsor Castle) and intriguing plot developments/twists.

I always enjoy Julia's portrayal as a fiercely independent and strong woman navigating a skeptical and biased men's world of medicine. With her keen intelligence and desire for the truth she is a joy to watch (with or without the presence of Scotland Yard's Inspector Richard Tennant). My only caveat here was the inexplicable behavior of Richard at times. I know that he has demons from his past and tends to be an emotionally closed-off man, but I was a bit disappointed in how he handled his return to London and to Julia. While I did love the way the author handled a romantic moment at the ending, I just felt it was a bit rushed considering how things had been between them during the rest of the story. That being said, I will definitely look forward to their next outing and seeing how things develop for Julia and Richard, both professionally and personally.

Definitely recommend this series.

My sincere thanks to the author, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing / Kensington for providing the free early arc of Murder by Moonrise for review. The opinions are strictly my own.

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's been a murder and the motive behind that murder and the subsequent murders and violence are a tangled web of smuggling, conspiracy and false leads.

This third installment of the series deals with feminism and Irish rebellion under the reign of Victoria.
Once again, the historical aspect of this is impeccable and delves into the lives of the royals and the tensions between them. As well as looking into what it was like to be Irish in England in a time when they weren't welcome.

The storytelling portion is a little disjointed and hard to follow. It definitely takes some brain power to follow along, mostly because the cast of characters is rather large and underdeveloped. We the readers get a passing glance and description of who these people are but no real character development to help us distinguish them from each other.

Then there is Julia Lewis and Richard Tenant.
The tension between Julia and Richard needs to be developed better, because Julia has valid reasons for her hesitancy and so does Richard but somehow they can't have a conversation.
These hesitations are discussed more thoroughly in the first two books, but I feel they're not really resolved, just kind of brushed aside. Also, I miss the sass and how well they worked together in the first book, they really managed to bounce ideas off of each other and gain insight from each other and I miss that.

I'll definitely be reading the next book when it comes out. The author isn't afraid to tackle some of the heavier subject matters of the time and her historical portions are accurate and engaging. I enjoy that aspect of these novels.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This third in the Dr. Julia Lewis mystery series finds her and Inspector Richard Tennant connected to several incidents involving the British Royal Family and some of their staff and servants. It starts when a young servant of Princess Louise is found dead on the Isle of Wight. The maid is found to be pregnant when Julia performs her autopsy. Julia’s examination proves the cause of death was murder. As Tennant and Scotland Yard try to find the killer, yet more murders occur that appear to be linked and this discovery leads the investigating Tennant to uncover a Fenian plot targeting Queen Victoria. It seemed a rather convoluted plot using both real and fictional characters. The threads tying everything together took a while to pull in.

I really enjoy this series and I hope to read further installments. I really like Julia and am happy that she and Richard have finally declared their intentions. I hope there are future cases that the pair will work in the late 1800s London setting. I enjoyed this story but noted that it focused more on the police and conspiracy themes than the medical situations that I prefer. Although Julie was called to attend members of the Royal Family, she didn’t do much real doctoring in the book. Or not nearly as much as I would have liked.

I was able to listen to the audio book while also following along in the e-book ARC, both provided by the publishers. The narrator, Marian Hussey, did an admirable job of handling the British and Irish accents as well as the different tones of male and female characters. She has a very expressive voice and spoke clearly which was necessary to follow the complex plot and the very large cast of characters in the story. I find that a good narrator definitely enhances my enjoyment of a book.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another solid addition to the Dr. Julia Lewis series! I've been waiting for this book for months, and it was a delight to finally get to listen to it!

The story picks up in the months after the events of the previous book, where Inspector Richard Tennant took a leave of absence to track down a villain who had escaped his net, leaving Dr. Julia Lewis behind in a state of uncertainty about just where their relationship might be headed. The new book leads into his return, and also a new mystery striking at the very heart of the British royal family, headed by the redoubtable Queen Victoria.

I will say that the side-mystery surrounding Princess Louise wasn't much of a mystery to me, on account of having read a biography her which offers up a theory that likely inspired this part of the book, but for people who aren't royal nerds like myself, this is an interesting subplot. If you're interested in reading about Princess Louise and her life, I definitely recommend Queen Victoria's Mysterious Daughter: A Biography of Princess Louise by Lucinda Hawksley.

Perhaps my only complaint would be the long list of suspects that Tennant and O'Malley had to wade through. It was hard to keep track of them at times!

Still, overall a great read! Particularly the end! Really looking forward to seeing where Patrice McDonough takes Julia and Richard next!

[bibliolatry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder by Moonrise is one of the best books I have ever read. I was on the edge of my seat from the beginning of the book until the very end.

Dr. Julia Lewis is working with Scotland Yard detective, Richard Tennant, on their third investigative case. They work well together because they are highly astute, caring, and tenacious. Because of their strong sense of justice, everyone they meet (except the criminals) is drawn to them. It is especially evident in this (book 3 ) where they are asked for help from the royal family and the highest levels of government.

The murder of a lovely young girl is followed by several more murders and as we read on, the connections and motives become clearer. I am amazed at the numerous threads that seemed unrelated yet were all woven into a beautiful tapestry.

The characters, even the criminals, while not admirable of course, are fascinating. They are fleshed out to perfection.

There are historical facts interwoven with fiction, but it is authentically presented. I thought I knew a lot about the Victorian Era, but I was constantly surprised by things I learned.

The whole mood of the book: the setting, the plot, the characters and the outstanding writing made this one of my new favorite books (and authors)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

#murderbymoonrise #NetGalley

[Jill E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

always worth the wait

I thought that the book started somewhat slowly, but that perhaps may have been my own distraction. It took just a little bit to catch up where the last book in the series left off.

And from there on out, the author again masterfully presented an intricate plot, excellent pacing without unnecessary commentary, characterizations that filled each member of the story out so that I grew to care for, or dislike, each one, as the author intended and a wild ride of a story!

The research used in this book is obvious. So many details are intricately and masterfully woven in with regard to the struggle between the British and the Irish, as the Irish longed (and fought) for independence.

Patrice McDonough is one of my favorite authors. I’m only sad that I flew through this book in two days and will now have something of a wait for her next book—I hope there will be another to come with Julia Lewis and Richard Tennant.

This is a cozy book with nothing graphic.

It was perplexing in trying to figure out who the villain was. It had moments of sadness to see what had happened because of the subjugation of the Irish people, as well as the villain’s diabolical disregard for human life. This villain was particularly dark.

And so, I heartily recommend this book.

[Mystica · Rating 5 out of 5]

A read I had to finish in one go. 1867 setting an outstanding lady doctor, rarer than hens teeth, a very different detective, Queen Victoria, her two daughters and all the royal rules and peculiarities one could muster, the background of the looming and ever present Irish Rebellion that the English would like to gloss over and the Isle of Wight, favoured by Queen Victoria.

The story starting with the murder of a ladies maid, and then slowly linking to the murder of her sister, a coachman, a milkman and the list goes on.
It seems like the murderer needs to cover his back by eliminating any and everyone linked to the story. A meticulous and clever schemer, Inspector Richard Tennant seems to be always one step behind. Dr Julia Lewis is the Detectives partner and help meet in all his endeavours, and both of them have feelings for each other. Sadly the Crimean war and their professions have kept them apart till now.

The story is a terrific one combining so much history with lifestyles of the aristocrats living under Queen Victoria who never let go of the reins, despite not being in the public eye, ruled the daughters and son living under her eyes with a will of iron and how secrets hidden for decades can be such a danger. It also gives glimpses of how attitudes are changing and how women will gradually fight and get what is rightfully theirs.

[Lisa O · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder by Moonrise is the third in the #drjulialewismysteries, featuring Dr. Julia Lewis, a rare female physician in Victorian England. Dr. Lewis is called to perform an autopsy, in her new role with Scotland Yard, on a young girl who appears to have drowned. Her colleague, Inspector Richard Lewis, has been off pursuing a villain in Europe, and Julia is adrift, wondering about the future of their relationship. Richard returns and is immediately thrust into investigating two murders, which quickly intersect with Julia's drowning victim. Working together in the Queen's Court at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight, Julia and Richard race to find the perpetrators before they are able to strike the Queen's family.

Many threads are introduced, which begin to weave together to form a clearer picture that a series of random events is not so random after all. Julia and Richard, working together again, each brings unique perspectives about the mindset of villains and their victims to solve the crimes. This series continues to develop its main characters, as well as endearing secondary characters, and I look forward to their future adventures. Thank you to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of #MurderbyMoonrise.

[Anna Boliker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 3 smoothy continues where the second book (rather abruptly) stopped. We get some time in between the two installments that is reasonably filled and allows the characters to evolve.
I really enjoyed the story and the calm tone throughout the book. The heroine is true to the character and knows what she wants. The relationships are no-nonsense and are discussed in clipped but focused dialogues that set the mood against the backdrop of the complex political situation and the mystery. The historical background enriches the story rather than being overwhelming. The mystery is engaging and challenging. The Royal inclusion was surprising but the author’s note made it interesting, so why not.
Also, Julia stays mostly in her line of work and does not (overly) intrude on Richard’s territory. Nevertheless, she is able to help the investigation and support Richard. Which is very much appreciated to be found in the stories of this genre.
Hopefully, there will be several more installments, as this couple seems mostly in synch, calm and rational while leading a caring relationship.

Thanks netgalley for the arc. Opinions are my own.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book in one sitting. Maybe my favorite so far in this series. I love every time Dr. Julia gets to surprise people in her role as a Doctor and especially in this book when she comes to the attention of the Royal Family. I had to look up the royal family tree a few times to get an understanding of the characters involved, and now I am more intrigued by Princess Louise. I wasn't sure how Tennant would be welcomed back after he disappeared without an explanation, and I might have been a bit more upset with him than Julia was. Having murders to solve and plots against the Royal Family to stop, it kept them working towards a common cause instead of dealing with those feelings right away. I appreciated how he ending of the book really did a great job of tying up every storyline in a way that felt appropriate, though not necessarily happy. I hope to see more of the Dr and Tennant soon!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advance reader copy of Murder by Moonrise. All opinions and comments are my own.

Detective Inspector Richard Tennant is still hunting his fugitive on the continent, absent for months. Dr. Julia Lewis, wondering whether they have a future, has gone to the Isle of Wight to visit and rest. But there will soon be no rest, for either of them, as the murder of an Osborne House parlor maid results in a scandal that soon involves high level suspects uncomfortably close to HM Queen Victoria. Throw in Irish Revolutionaries, more deaths, and the participation of an inquisitive HRH Princess Louise, and you have the making of a story that will find Richard and Julia using all their detective and forensic skills to unmask a heartless killer. All while they are finding their way back to each other.

This is a fast-paced story, and the character of Julia Lewis continues to shine as one that uses her personality and intelligence to succeed in what is a man’s world, as a medical examiner and in her desire to do detecting and investigative work. Author Patrice McDonough reminds us that while this is set in Victorian times (well-illustrated throughout), Julia can forge ahead in whatever she sets out to do.

There’s an exciting finish which involves some rather famous historical figures. Murder by Moonrise will make fans of Richard and Julia happy, while those that read historical mysteries for the settings will appreciate the real history, people and events portrayed in the pages.

[K McKenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third entry in this excellent series was my favorite to date. A twisty mystery that ties together the royal family, Irish-English history and conflict, and the main characters’ personal lives in a compelling story. You could read this as a standalone, but you will get much more out of it if you’ve read the first two. Richard is back from his unexpected travel from the end of book two, just in time to work with Julia on the murder of an Irish maid to Queen Victoria’s family. Things quickly get more complicated in the case and in Julia and Robert’s relationship. The plot is well done and keeps you guessing while the personal developments drive part of the story without overshadowing it. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy. All view are entirely my own and offered voluntarily.

[J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a complex mystery set in Victorian England. A young woman, one of the royal household maids, has died on the Isle of Wight. She drowned in a well. Was it accident, suicide or murder? Dr. Julia Lewis, one of England’s first woman doctors, is asked to perform the autopsy. Her findings are inconclusive but her hunch says it was murder. Her hunch is justified when the maid’s sister, coming to London to share her sister’s last letter, is killed and the letter is stolen. And so the mystery commences. It involves members on all levels of the royal household, the issue of Irish independence and assassins. It is a complex and intriguing book.
Thanks to NetGalley for an eGalley of this title.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

I really enjoyed the first two books of the series and was so excited to see what would unfold for Julia and Tennant next. I liked that this book, as with the previous two, wasted no time in getting to the first of the murders. There is a lot going on in this book, but it never felt like it was dragging on or that there was too much happening. There are plenty of "bad guys" here to keep you guessing as to who was responsible for what. It was especially interesting to see how everything tied together in the end. My only complaint is that I thought there was too much with the royal family - the scenes with the ladies coming to see Julia for various medical reasons took away from the mystery at times. At the end I thought Tennant was just going to ask to court Julia so the proposal came as a surprise! There is also a secondary romance here that was a nice break from the murder and conspiracies. I cannot wait to see what happens in book 4!

[queenofassassin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This historical murder mystery blends real historical figures with fictional ones and doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths. It highlights the English mistreatment of the Irish and the deep hatred between the two groups. I struggle to understand how people reach that level of cruelty but then I look at the world today and realize how little has changed. Humans still fear, harm, and hate those who are different.

I recommend this series to historical fiction readers, especially those interested in the lived experiences of women and minority groups in London’s history. While the romance adds depth, it isn’t essential you can follow the mystery without it. Still, the series as a whole is worth the emotional investment.

[Sven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fabulous book in the series. Julia is involved in an intrigue that touches the royal family. There are murders, liaisons, assassination plots, altogether a lot of mayhem.

Richard Tennant is also back, and his abrupt departure has added a bit of unease to their relationship. Between all the bodies falling, the Irish rebellion, missing guns, and protecting the royal family, they form a tentative truck.

The plotline in this book was very complicated but intriguing. Each innocuous thread is examined before more bodies fall, and an intricate web of deception is uncovered.

Finally, Richard gets the guts to reveal his feelings for Julia.

Cannot wait to read the next book.

#netgalley #MurderbyMoonrise

[Theresa Lorenzo · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is only one word I would use to describe this book and it is wonderful.

It starts with the cover, I absolutely love it. And from then on, I loved everything about it. The characters are very well drawn out and each and every one of them is so interesting. It is always nice to see a female who is strong and confident in the lead. But all the characters pull you in and I found myself wanting to know even more about them. I usually can pick out the murderer pretty early in the book, but I was surprised at who actually did it. It was intriguing and a really good read.

Its been awhile since I received a book from Goodreads and I am so glad it was this one. I enjoyed it tremendously.