What do you think?
Rate this book
Dr. Julia Lewis #3
Murder by Moonrise
Not yet published
Expected 24 Feb 26London’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 . . .
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 . . .
311 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 24, 2026
5 people are currently reading
4316 people want to read
About the author
Patrice McDonough
4 books208 followersPatrice 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 9, 2025
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.
Read
February 1, 2026NetGalley 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.
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.
November 3, 2025
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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!
"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!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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
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
October 4, 2025
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.
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.
November 3, 2025
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.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
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.
Thanks to NetGalley for an eGalley of this title.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*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!
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!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 30, 2026
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really liked this novel: the complex plot(s), murmurings of espionage and treason as well as personal motives, enough Irish history to understand the events but not so much to turn the novel into a history textbook, vivid descriptions of life in Victorian England and in Victoria's immediate family, and the developing relationships of the main characters. It can be read as a standalone, but reading the series in order will let the reader understand better the personalities of the recurring characters. The main character, Dr. Julia Lewis, is sympathetically drawn. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once again Patrice Mc Donough has written a page turner! I could not wait to find out what Julia and Richard had been doing since we last read about them in book #2. McDonough has a way of creating characters that not only come to life, but who are complex and intriguing. It was easy to picture all of the new characters in this novel, since there was such a fluid and intricate introduction to each person. Having this murder mystery involve the royal family, truly made this my favorite so far. With the incredible research that McDonough does for each book, I really was able to immerse myself in all the rich history. She definitely keeps readers on their toes till the end.
October 5, 2025
The third book in the series starts some months after the second book - somehow abruptly - ended.
Julia is vacationing for a couple of weeks and Richard is off in Europe to catch the villain that escaped in the previous book.
They both are involved in a murder and a plot that touch the royal family.
I liked how the story unfolded and the mystery twisted. The characters are evolving and their relationships growing.
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
Julia is vacationing for a couple of weeks and Richard is off in Europe to catch the villain that escaped in the previous book.
They both are involved in a murder and a plot that touch the royal family.
I liked how the story unfolded and the mystery twisted. The characters are evolving and their relationships growing.
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
October 5, 2025
I am so pleased I requested this novel from NetGalley! I really enjoyed the plot with its royal intrigues, secrets and insights into the Irish problematic theme. I just wish I saw more of Julia and her medical expertise in practice. A touch of romance between Julia (a feminist ) and Richard from the Yard (who fought in the Crimean war), but not overwhelming the investigation. A well done mystery book! I will definitely go on reading this series.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
October 31, 2025
This has been by far my favorite in the Dr. Julia Lewis mysteries - the perfect blending of real historical royal figures and events with fictional intrigue and mystery. Readers who are fascinated with the Victorian period or have a keen interest in what-goes-on-behind-the-scenes in a royal household should get a kick out of the larger than life characters in Her Majesty's lineup. And anyone who has been following along with Julia and Inspector Tennant's potential trajectory should not end the book disappointed.
Thank you Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for the digital ARC!
Thank you Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for the digital ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A great addition to the series.
Dr. Julia Grey finds herself helping to investigate the murders of two Irish maids. After being gone for months Tennant is back in the picture.
I enjoyed the historical bits. The discussions of the Irish rebellions and some insight into the way royal life may work for their staff.
Some changes between viewpoints seemed abrupt and I had to go back and reread to see who was the focus but I did like the viewpoints of some secondary characters. Overall good and I’ll read the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley for the book.
Dr. Julia Grey finds herself helping to investigate the murders of two Irish maids. After being gone for months Tennant is back in the picture.
I enjoyed the historical bits. The discussions of the Irish rebellions and some insight into the way royal life may work for their staff.
Some changes between viewpoints seemed abrupt and I had to go back and reread to see who was the focus but I did like the viewpoints of some secondary characters. Overall good and I’ll read the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley for the book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoyed this book with a woman in a role that was not expected. Dr. Julia Lewis has qualified in America as a doctor and practices through a loophole in the British laws. While running a clinic in a poor neighborhood she also does work for the police. Surviving in a male dominated profession, even being in a profession as a woman, is never easy. But Julia asks questions and expects answers. Her grandfather and Detective Inspector of Scotland Yard, Richard Tennant try to protect her but she has a habit of charging ahead. I look forward to more of these adventures.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*Received as a free ARC*
I have to say, this is probably my favorite book in this series so far. The female characters are many and varied. They are all carving out lives that satisfy within the constraints of the Victorian era. As ever, the history was extremely well researched. And I appreciate that Julia and Tennant were able to finally communicate, though it might have been nice if they didn't immediately get engaged.
I have to say, this is probably my favorite book in this series so far. The female characters are many and varied. They are all carving out lives that satisfy within the constraints of the Victorian era. As ever, the history was extremely well researched. And I appreciate that Julia and Tennant were able to finally communicate, though it might have been nice if they didn't immediately get engaged.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2025
I enjoyed this historical mystery set in Victorian times and in fact, involving the queen herself and her household. The many various characters and historical references to the Crimean War and Irish rebellions were as interesting as the mystery itself. This is the first in the series that I've read, but it won't be the last.
Review based on a DRC received through NetGalley.
Review based on a DRC received through NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Patrice Mcdonough for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Murder by Moonrise coming out February 24, 2026. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I’m obsessed with this series! I love the themes and mysteries. Julia is a fun character. I loved the development and ending. I’ll definitely read more books in the series!
I’m obsessed with this series! I love the themes and mysteries. Julia is a fun character. I loved the development and ending. I’ll definitely read more books in the series!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another intriguing historical mystery. This book involved members of the royal family that I hadn't really read about before, so it made for some interesting reading. I really enjoy this series and hope there will be more.
Thanks for the ARC Netgalley.
Thanks for the ARC Netgalley.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
unique historical murder mystery featuring a doctor protagonist and very fraught political times and settings. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
Want to read
February 3, 20262/24
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the third in the series, and I’ve been happy with each installment.
Dr Julia Lewis takes a trip to the Isle of Wight to visit with her grandfather and great-aunt. It’s also the place where Prince Albert and his set yacht and play. Though this soft and sunny place is just what Julia needs after her last case where she was the medical examiner, there is a man on her mind, Detective Inspector Tennet, her partner in crime, as it were. She hasn’t heard from him in some time, and this is troubling her more and more.
Her worry in this idyllic place is broken when a young woman is found murdered—a young woman in the Queen’s household. Julia’s help is needed to do a post mortem, but she also finds herself involved with some of the other women in the Queen’s household. This makes for an interesting read about women and expectations in the era of Queen Victoria and an interesting twist to the investigation into the murders that occur here.
As always, intertwining plots and characters make for an excellent historical mystery and emotionally satisfying ending. Highly recommended.
Dr Julia Lewis takes a trip to the Isle of Wight to visit with her grandfather and great-aunt. It’s also the place where Prince Albert and his set yacht and play. Though this soft and sunny place is just what Julia needs after her last case where she was the medical examiner, there is a man on her mind, Detective Inspector Tennet, her partner in crime, as it were. She hasn’t heard from him in some time, and this is troubling her more and more.
Her worry in this idyllic place is broken when a young woman is found murdered—a young woman in the Queen’s household. Julia’s help is needed to do a post mortem, but she also finds herself involved with some of the other women in the Queen’s household. This makes for an interesting read about women and expectations in the era of Queen Victoria and an interesting twist to the investigation into the murders that occur here.
As always, intertwining plots and characters make for an excellent historical mystery and emotionally satisfying ending. Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
review to come
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews