Pearls and Poison

Rose Gallagher #4

by Erin Lindsey

Rose is back and this time she’s flying solo as she investigates criminal paranormal activity in Gilded Age New York City.

Murder in Manhattan

Fully fledged Pinkerton agent Rose Gallagher has just caught her first solo case. Stolen jewels and suspicious deaths in a building on Pearl Street with supernatural markings in the wall are right up her alley. But without her partner, Thomas—whose abrupt departure still hurts her bruised heart—Rose fears she might not be up to the challenge. Especially when the investigation takes a deadly turn . . .

Attending a high society séance hosted by a psychic of dubious repute should have been nothing more than a great opportunity to gather clues. And yet Rose finds herself being followed, her dear friend is brutally attacked, and her mother’s life is threatened. With her loved ones in danger, can Rose stop the killer before their sinister scheme claims another victim?

The fourth installment in Erin Lindsey’s Rose Gallagher series, Pearls and Poison is an exciting adventure through Gilded Age New York. Fans of historical mysteries and all things supernatural will love this!

Genres: Mystery, Historical Mystery, Historical Fiction, Historical

336 pages, Hardcover

Published December 2, 2025

Reviews

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.

Even though I haven't read any of the previous books in the series, I didn't feel lost at all. I had absolutely no problems jumping right into the series, and I love that there were no spoilers for the previous books (hate when that happens). Other than wishing I had read the previous books first, so I knew a bit more about what happened with the different interpersonal relationships, I was easily able to follow it.

I always love when historical books bring in real-life figures, but having Nikola Tesla and Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) help the Pinkertons solve supernatural crimes? That is just amazing. I love everything about this book and can't wait to read the rest of the series!

[Heidi Ariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

First thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

This was a solid addition to the Rose Gallagher Mystery series. This one picks up with Rose back in New York months after Thomas’ hasty departure to San Francisco. Rose is learning how to be a detective on her own without Thomas’ guidance. His absent was felt throughout the book, and I missed the relationship between him and Rose. However, this book allowed Rose the space she needed to grow as a detective in her own right and learn to trust herself, her abilities, and her friends. The mystery itself was a bit predictable towards the end, but I’m interested to see what’s next for Rose and her friends. I also appreciated the author’s note and historical articles at the end explaining the inspiration for this mystery, I’ll have to keep an eye out for any arcane symbols next time I’m on Pearl Street.

3.5/5

[tei hurst · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been an avid enjoyer of the Rose Gallagher mysteries since the first book came out, and after waiting for four years for book four, I’m devastated to say it fell a little below my expectations, even though it was still a fantastically good book.
Although there’s no progress in Rose’s relationship with Thomas (and he’s not in the book at all, other than a few mentions), I did enjoy watching her relationships with others in her life progress and deepen without him there- and this case was a great one too, with a very classic mystery feel (and that sprinkle of supernatural that we know and love!)
Overall, a solid read for anyone who enjoys historical mystery with a hint of magic, but lacking in the romance department compared to book three.

(Thank you to netgalley for early access to an ARC of this book!)

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This historical mystery series just keeps getting better! PEARLS AND POISON is engaging, engrossing, funny, entertaining, and just all-around enjoyable.

If this were a movie, it would be rated PG-13 for brief, mild language (no F-bombs), violence, and innuendo.

[Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I saw the fourth Rose Gallagher book was out, I literally squealed with delight. I LOVE this series so much, and I’ve been patiently waiting for 2 years for the latest addition since I discovered it in 2023.

Erin Lindsey is an incredible author who researches her books so meticulously. Each book is based on real events/discoveries/people of the 19th century. So while reading a great mystery, you’re also learning history!!

This latest book has us following Rose as she solves a case as a lone agent, with the help of her friends. I loved seeing Rose being independent and leading her own case. I missed all of the characters so much. Also, I think I like her newest love interest better than the first… I’m a sucker for a reformed rake lol. I already can’t wait for the next one!!!

[Anne - Books of My Heart · Rating 4 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
 

Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

I have enjoyed this author in the fantasy realm and now her works of historical mysteries with magic, which is akin to fantasy, just not quite as far back in history?  The Rose Gallagher series is set in New York City at the time of Roosevelt, part of the gilded age which is charming but also so class oriented.  I would read these books in order as there is much to learn about Rose and the other characters and the magic of the world.  The next paragraph is all spoilers from the earlier books to catch up to present.

Rose begins as a housemaid to Sir Thomas, an Englishman of wealth. Rose has been infatuated with Thomas, which led to her saving his life. In the process, she discovers that most of the wealthy are lucky, which means they have some sort of magic.  She also learns Thomas is a Pinkerton agent  She becomes an agent under his mentoring. 

Pearls and Poison finds Rose working alone in New York City as Thomas left for San Francisco suddenly.  Rose isn't sure where to get her cases, what to charge, how to file expenses.  She also hasn't confided in her Mum about her job and her boarder, Pietro.

Nonetheless, when Sergeant Chapman brings her a case with murders. They have been labeled as suicide but he and some  victim's family members believe they are not suicide.  She stumbles along with her friends, and Thomas' friend. She ends up in terrible danger.

The beginning seemed a bit slow or scattered, or maybe I was slow since the last book was 5 years ago!  Rose had to figure out how to work on her own and develop allies. The best assistance came from the Wangs and Nikola Tesla.  They are characters well known to the series.  Rose builds a smart circle she can trust.   It's an interesting case with mediums and alchemy.   I'll be interested to see how things go in a new case where she has more of a foundation.

Narration:
I've enjoyed this narrator before.  The voices felt appropriate for the different classes of characters.  Both the male and female voices were comfortable and kept me in the story.  I listened at my usual 1.5x speed.

Listen to a clip: HERE

[Lacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

How delightful to have a new Rose Gallagher mystery to devour, especially as the seasons shift from summer to fall. I am beside myself with happiness. It has been a long time since I got to catch up with my friends Rose, Clara, Edith, and all the others. Even though several years have passed since the last installment, the author very smoothly reintroduces us to Rose's world. While it is not necessary to have perfect recall of the previous books, it is necessary for readers to have read them. This is not a standalone.

This installment shows Rose developing as a person and growing as a detective. She is given a chance to shine in her detective role due to the absence of a certain someone (although they are never far from everyone's thoughts and actions). The mystery draws on several historical details from the Gilded Age, such as the preoccupation with the paranormal and the occult and the development of fancy dress Halloween parties as a popular leisure activity. The mystery is solved satisfactorily, and the door is left open for future installments.

My one criticism is that the timeline is a bit compressed. Rose will complete several important tasks all before lunch time, going all around the city, meeting with several important people, gathering important information. It just doesn't seem possible to do so much in such a short time frame. I think the events could have been spread out for a more believable timeline.

I received a copy of this eARC from NetGalley. My opinions are my own.

[Acantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very entertaining paranormal murder mystery.

I haven't read any of the previous books in this series, but I didn't feel lost because of it. The setting, the characters, they are all richly and wonderfully introduced without feeling as if too much is unexplained. There were enough little hints and nods to previous books that I felt excited at the thought of going back to read them rather than annoyed.

Rose is a fantastic main character. Watching her grow throughout this story as she learns to navigate solving a case without a direct partner. Although she has plenty of back up, not to worry. The supporting cast are great too, from her police friend to her mother and the shameless flirt that is Jonathan. Not having met Thomas (her love interest is mentioned frequently but does not appear in this book) I can't judge how they work but her yearning was a delight. Not too overdone but its clear she cares deeply for him and his absence is felt.

The mystery itself was deeply engaging, a series of mysterious deaths, some pyramids carved into a wall. Add to that a fraud spirt medium, freemasons, gangs running protection rackets and so much more, and this is a New York that is bursting at the seams. It was a riot to read.

I enjoy it when historical figures are scattered throughout books, so long as it doesn't become about them, and thankfully that isn't a case here. The famous names add to the story rather than distract.

This is an author and a series I will eagerly be keeping an eye out for.

~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~

[M Steinbrink · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peals and Poison is the fourth of the Rose Gallagher mysteries by Erin Lindsey. The previous book came out in 2020, so I have been waiting for years to read this book and I have to say it was so worth the wait. Rose has become a very good Pinkerton agent, even if she doesn’t know it yet and it is a joy to watch her and her friends solve a mystery on their own with no guidance from the Pinkertons and with her previous partner having left town. There is magic, good detective work, historical characters and settings and so much more that make this book wonderful. I love all the details the author included and all the research that went into and inspired this book. The mystery was a challenge to solve and I was so happy when Rose figured it all out. I hope there will be more books in this series because it really is a wonderful series and the stories could literally go anywhere. I’m also hoping a certain someone will make an appearance in the next book (please??), not because Rose needs him, but because she wants him and he may need her. This book is for sure a five star book! I would like to give it six, but I can’t figure out how!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.

[Robert A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pearls and Poison is the kind of novel that reminds you why you fell in love with storytelling in the first place. From the moment Rose Gallagher steps onto the page, her voice envelops you with warmth, grit, vulnerability, and a sly humor that feels lived-in rather than performed. Erin Lindsey doesn’t just write a character she resurrects her. The world of 1880s New York hums with life, not because of historical aesthetics, but because every detail is attached to human longing, fear, resolve, and hope.

What moved me most was how seamlessly Lindsey blends suspense with soul. The mystery at Pearl Street is compelling on its own, but the true marvel lies in how it mirrors Rose’s internal struggle: the ache of abandonment, the yearning to prove herself, the bravery required to step into an identity that the world has told her she shouldn’t have. This is not just a detective story; it is a story about fighting to belong in a world that refuses to imagine you in power.

Lindsey has created a heroine who will linger in readers’ hearts long after the last page flawed, determined, tender, and brilliant. Pearls and Poison is a masterclass in character-driven mystery, and an unmissable gift to lovers of historical fiction.

[Eugene Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Erin Lindsey has achieved here is nothing short of remarkable. Pearls and Poison captures the contradictions of the human heart with a subtlety rarely seen in genre fiction. It’s a detective story, yes but beneath the suspense lies a deeper narrative about identity, class, ambition, and the battle between who we are and who we wish to become.

Rose Gallagher shines. Her voice is effortlessly compelling, threading humor and humility through every page. She is brave, but not invincible; smart, but learning; wounded, yet still reaching for the light. This makes her one of the most relatable and endearing protagonists in modern historical mystery.

The relationships in this novel particularly the complicated, tender dynamic with Thomas’s absence and the electric banter with Jonathan are handled with exquisite emotional intelligence. Lindsey’s dialogue crackles with authenticity, revealing character more powerfully than exposition ever could.

The book’s atmosphere is unmatched. The era feels researched not with academic detachment but with reverence, heart, and lived-in empathy.

Readers will walk away feeling both entertained and enriched, the way only truly exceptional fiction can manage.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this historical mystery with a light paranormal/fantasy twist. I had not read the prior books in the series but had no trouble jumping in with all the explanations here (though I’m looking forward to going back and reading books 1-3). For readers familiar with the series, this seems to be an outlier in that Rose’s mentor and love interest from prior books is absent from the story— and potentially a new one is being set up.

Rose is a maid-turned-Pinkerton agent in a secretive division dealing with paranormal-related inquiries, including ghosts, the occult, and the “otherworld,” which includes faeries and mysterious/unexplained things. The mystery here surrounds a series of carvings in a wall found on Pearl Street in NY, and a number of dead bodies found kneeling in front of it. Rose enlists the help of her friends—who come from a mixture of backgrounds—to try to solve the murders and stop the killer before the next victim is picked.

The story has lots of action, intrigue and some lighthearted moments, as well. Overall this was a fun and interesting read. I’d recommend this for fans of Rhys Bowen’s Molly Murphy and Royal Spyness series.

Thank you to Severn House and Netgalley for providing an ARC for review!

[Jared Israel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is not merely written — it is crafted. Like a jeweler selecting stones, Lindsey arranges atmosphere, dialogue, and emotion into something dazzling. Every scene feels like it snaps into place with purpose, and yet the narrative flows with the ease of a storyteller completely at home in her world.

The “puzzle on Pearl Street” is enthralling, but what truly elevates this novel is Rose’s emotional journey. Her heartbreak over Thomas, her complicated friendship with Edith, the aching dance around her identity, and the beautiful tension of wanting more from life than she has been told she deserves each thread feels real, tender, and profoundly human.

The mystery itself is layered, intelligent, and impeccably structured. The pacing is perfect moments of action spark like gunfire, but the quiet moments are where the story’s genius truly glows. Lindsey’s narration is witty without being flippant, emotional without being sentimental, grounded without losing wonder.

By the time you close this book, you’ll feel like you’ve walked New York’s streets, tasted its tea, breathed its ghost-laced air, and lived inside Rose Gallagher’s heart. A resounding triumph.

[Vintagebooklvr · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rose Gallagher had her first solo case after her partner left abruptly. Stolen jewels and mysterious suicides were linked to a building on Pearl Street that had supernatural markings on it. Then someone badly beat up her friend and threatened her mother. Rose wondered did she really have what it takes to solve this case on her own?

I liked to see how Rose has grown over the course the four books in this series. She stood proud to take her first solo case if a bit worried if she could do it alone. She was also worried about how much longer she could keep her lodger and her mother in the dark about the supernatural nature of the cases she was involved in particularly when her mother was disturbed by the ghost of Rose's grandmother. I just wished she did seem to mope so much for her partner who just left her without much of an explanation. I wouldn't mind seeing her link romantically with someone else. But that is for a future book.

This was a solid mystery with an exciting end. I look forward to more Rose Gallagher mysteries.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun ride. Rose Gallagher is back, and this time she’s flying solo—no Thomas, no backup, just her instincts and a whole lot of supernatural trouble in Gilded Age New York. The case kicks off with stolen jewels and strange markings in a Manhattan building, but things quickly spiral into séances, psychic frauds, and threats that hit way too close to home.

Rose is sharp, gutsy, and just the right amount of vulnerable. You can feel her heartbreak over Thomas’s absence, but she doesn’t let it slow her down. The mystery is layered and fast-paced, with plenty of eerie twists and high-society drama. And the paranormal elements? Deliciously creepy without going over the top.

If you love historical mysteries with a supernatural edge and a heroine who’s equal parts clever and courageous, this one’s a treat. It’s book four in the Rose Gallagher series, but it stands strong on its own—and leaves you wanting more.

My thanks to Erin Lindsey, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

[Jennifer W.]

Pearls and Poison delivers everything a reader could dream of: tension, humor, emotional depth, gorgeous prose, and a heroine impossible not to love. The paranormal elements are woven in with such delicacy that they elevate rather than overshadow the mystery mirroring the subtle presence of unseen forces that shape all human lives.

Erin Lindsey writes with a confidence and grace that make every chapter feel deceptively effortless. Her descriptions are vivid without being heavy, her plot intricate without becoming convoluted, and her emotional beats resonate like a struck violin string.

What distinguishes this novel from others in its genre is its heart. Many mysteries entertain; few move. Lindsey has infused the narrative with themes of belonging, courage, loyalty, and the grief of losing the person who once made you feel seen. Rose Gallagher’s conflicts professional, personal, and spiritual give the book a depth that lingers long after the final page.

This is storytelling at its finest layered, luminous, and utterly unforgettable.

[Laurel Kristick · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this is the fourth book in the series, I haven't read the earlier books and found this easy to dive into and follow and feel it works well as a stand alone.

Rose is a charming lead character, a Pinkerton agent in a paranormal-infused historical world. The mystery is intriguing, the side stories (which range from a gang trying to intimidate storekeepers into paying protection to a friend planning her wedding) are good, and the various interactions among the characters are well-written. While the earlier books undoubtedly provide nuance to the various repeating characters, there was enough in this book to make the relationships clear. The hints of past events were enough for me to put the first book on hold at my library.

If you like historical mysteries with shout outs to real historical figures and a dash of magic, this is well worth checking out.

Thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for the chance to read and review this book.

[Belinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

So very happy to be back in Rose’s world! While this is self-contained enough to be a standalone, Erin Lindsey’s gilded age take on urban fantasy is worth starting at the beginning with Murder on Millionaire’s Row. The series is cozy and fun, and delightful if light fantasy what you’re looking for.

I’ve missed these characters! Except for Thomas, I hope he stays out west long enough for Jonathan’s patience to pay off. (The man put his lucky hands in a corpse for Rose and she thinks they’re just friends🙄.)

As always, the mystery was interesting and well constructed. I enjoyed the glimpses behind the scenes of a seance, I love that topic and learned a new trick.

Not a cliffhanger like the last book but plenty of room for the story to continue, so I hope a new adventure is on the way soon.

[Randee Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pinkerton agent Rose Gallagher is now working solo, and she has just landed her first case. Several suspicious deaths have taken place inside an empty building on Pearl Street in New York City. The deaths appear to be suicides, but the mysterious markings on a nearby brick wall and missing jewelry connected to the victims leads Rose to believe that the paranormal is involved. With the murderer stalking her and threatening her loved ones, Rose is racing to close the case before someone else dies.

I read the first three books in the Rose Gallagher series years ago, and I’m excited that she’s back and now working as a solo Pinkerton agent. The abrupt departure of her mentor and love interest leaves Rose to figure things out on her own. Without much backing from the Pinkerton Agency, Rose does her best to figure things out on her own. She’s tenacious and refuses to quit no matter how dangerous it gets. I’m a big fan of Rose, and I thoroughly enjoyed PEARLS AND POISON. Erin Lindsey really brings to life Gilded Age New York, and it was interesting to get a glimpse into early Halloween dress parties and seances.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been almost six years since I read the last one in this series so I was a little confused in the beginning, but everything is explained well and I was able to follow along, getting immersed back into Rose’s New York. I loved that Rose was working on her own and finding her footing as a solo investigator. The mystery was well-paced and had tons going on, keeping me firmly entrenched in the time and story. There are several loose threads that are tied up in regard to her family and, while all of those are put to rest there is one more looming that might mean there is more to come in the series. Highly recommend for those who like strong women and paranormal mysteries but start at the beginning to get the full feel of the series.

Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy.

[Sven · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been fast listening to catch up on the series, so I could read this book and I really liked it. What did I like best, Roses relationships with Jonathan was on the top, but also how she opens up to all those around her, her support network is amazing. Honestly having surly Thomas out of the picture worked for me. It gave Rose a chance to believe in her skills and come into her own and honestly I am rooting for her and Jonathan now.

Please don't keep us waiting for book 5. This is such a unique take on historical mystery and written so well, I really would like to see the series continue for some time.

#netgalley #PearlsandPoison

[Jan Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Severn House and NetGalley for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This is book four in the Rose Gallagher series. Rose is now a full fledged Pinkerton agent investigating supernatural crimes. It is her first case without Thomas and she finds herself woefully untrained about the administrative side to her job. I really loved this book. It is an historical mystery set in the gilded age. and hits all the right notes. I do wish I had read the first three books for more clarity, but following along with the book as a whole is not a problem. Highly recommend. Four Stars.

[Elizabeth E · Rating 4 out of 5]

So we join Rose Gallagher in the 4th book in the series for murder, mystery and a side of paranormal. I hadn’t read the previous books & although this didn’t take away from the story, I found myself wishing I knew the back stories, so that’s 3 more books added to my TBR list. 😂
I quickly fell in love with the characters particular the FMC & her band of friends & family and this book suited my love of cosy crime. With paranormal aspects & the book ending over Halloween a great read as we go into Autumn.

Thank you Net Gallery & Severn House for the ARC.

[Janessa Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pearls and Poison is a cozy mystery with paranormal elements set during the Gilded Age. Pinkerton agent Rose Gallagher investigates a series of murders in an abandoned building connected by strange symbols and stolen jewels. I felt fully immersed in the setting and the cast of very diverse characters. This was the first book I’ve read in the series and I’m very glad I happened upon it! The plot is fast moving, the characters intriguing, and the author does a fabulous job at making you feel all the emotions.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book. A Gilded Age mystery, a strong female investigator, and a little bit of the supernatural.

Even though it is the fourth book in the series, I could pick this up and easily read. The characters are clearly introduced with some backstory so I could keep track. There are some mentions to previous events which would make more sense to those who have read the other books.

I need to find the other books to learn more about this relationship with Thomas (because I was definitely rooting for Jonathan).

(ARC provided by NetGalley)

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is part of the Rose Gallagher series. Rose has been recruited by the Pinkerton Detective Agency into their paranormal division. She is new to the job and when her partner leaves suddenly to travel across the country to handle another case she is left alone with one of his friends and her limited contacts to solve a series of murders in a building seeped in paranormal icons. Everywhere she goes she finds herself missing her partner and unsure of herself. But the case must be brought to a conclusion and she uses all her knowledge and that of her friends to do just that.

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been so long since the last Rose Gallagher mystery that I honestly forgot a lot about it. And that wasn’t necessarily a bad thing because it allowed me to really enjoy it for itself and not compare it to the start of the series. And I really did enjoy so much about this book, and Rose in particular. Yes, the absence of Thomas was disappointing, but I don’t think we’ve heard the last of him. Thanks to Severn House for the ARC.

[Payton Best · Rating 4 out of 5]

ROSE AND JOHNATHAN BETTER GET TOGETHER. And there better be another book, without having to wait 5 years. This was so good, this series is everything. 😭😭

[Laura Conway · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another worthy addition to the Rose Gallagher mysteries! I only hope the next book comes out sooner rather than later!