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Murder in the Reading Room
Not yet published
Expected 3 Feb 26
New York crime-fiction librarian
—
and reluctant amateur sleuth
—
Ray Ambler investigates a puzzling murder that’s too close to home for comfort.
Raymond Ambler, crime-fiction curator at New York City’s prestigious 42nd Street Library, doesn’t consider it a big deal when he misses a call from visiting professor Robin Cartwright . . . until she turns up dead in a hotel room.
Who killed the quiet academic, and why? Ambler feels duty-bound to find the culprit, and not just because the police half-suspect he’s guilty of the crime. It wasn’t just Professor Cartwright’s phone call he missed, but any sign that she was in danger.
Robin was researching accidental deaths she believed were murders—could her work have got her killed? Soon Ambler’s knee-deep in suspects, including a shady ex-husband, a slippery pastor, and at least one of his own colleagues. But the clock is ticking. If he doesn’t catch a ruthless killer soon, it won’t just be his own life in danger, but those of his partner and newborn child.
The 42nd Street Library mystery series blends traditional mystery with a hint of noir, and is a great pick for fans of quintessential New York writers like Ed McBain and S. J. Rozan, along with those who enjoy traditional amateur sleuths and fair-play puzzles.
Raymond Ambler, crime-fiction curator at New York City’s prestigious 42nd Street Library, doesn’t consider it a big deal when he misses a call from visiting professor Robin Cartwright . . . until she turns up dead in a hotel room.
Who killed the quiet academic, and why? Ambler feels duty-bound to find the culprit, and not just because the police half-suspect he’s guilty of the crime. It wasn’t just Professor Cartwright’s phone call he missed, but any sign that she was in danger.
Robin was researching accidental deaths she believed were murders—could her work have got her killed? Soon Ambler’s knee-deep in suspects, including a shady ex-husband, a slippery pastor, and at least one of his own colleagues. But the clock is ticking. If he doesn’t catch a ruthless killer soon, it won’t just be his own life in danger, but those of his partner and newborn child.
The 42nd Street Library mystery series blends traditional mystery with a hint of noir, and is a great pick for fans of quintessential New York writers like Ed McBain and S. J. Rozan, along with those who enjoy traditional amateur sleuths and fair-play puzzles.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 3, 2026
1 person is currently reading
22 people want to read
About the author
Con Lehane
15 books104 followersaka Cornelius Lehane.
Con Lehane grew up in the suburbs of New York City and currently writes from just outside of Washington, DC. Once a college professor, union organizer, bartender, and editor at the National Education Association, he now writes full time and teaches at The Writer's Center. He holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in fiction writing from Columbia University School of the Arts. Death at the Old Hotel is his third novel in the Bartender Brian McNulty mystery series. His newest offering, the first book in a new series, is due from Minotaur-Thomas Dunne Books in 2014.
Series:
* Brian McNulty Mystery
Con Lehane grew up in the suburbs of New York City and currently writes from just outside of Washington, DC. Once a college professor, union organizer, bartender, and editor at the National Education Association, he now writes full time and teaches at The Writer's Center. He holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in fiction writing from Columbia University School of the Arts. Death at the Old Hotel is his third novel in the Bartender Brian McNulty mystery series. His newest offering, the first book in a new series, is due from Minotaur-Thomas Dunne Books in 2014.
Series:
* Brian McNulty Mystery
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
November 29, 2025
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Con Lehane, and Severn House for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Con Lehane returns for what he is calling the final novel in the 42nd Street Library series, bringing things around for an odd murder. When Raymond Ambler misses a call from a visiting professor, he thinks nothing of it. Ambler, the crime-fiction curator at New York’s 42nd Street Library, meets and assists many visiting scholars, including Robin Cartwright, who seek information on writing the perfect murder mystery. When Prof. Cartwright turns up dead in her hotel room, things take a definite turn. Ambler takes it upon himself to determine who might have wanted to see the professor killed, as the authorities put the pressure on him. He wonders if he missed a sign that could have saved Professor Cartwright. Looking at Professor Cartwright’s research may help shed light on a suspect, of which Ambler finds many. True to form, he takes up the case and proves to be the ultimate amateur sleuth in what may be his final case. Lehane delivers a fast-paced series finale that seemed a little too rushed to make the impact I had hoped to find.
I have long enjoyed the work of Con Lehane, particularly in this series. It started sharp and proved to be one for which I got quite excited. However, some air was surely taken from the tires in this series finale, as Lehane did not offer up as strong a story or development as I might have liked. It was as though Lehane annnounced the end and then had to slap something together to meet that promise. The story develops with a clear, but sluggish, narrative, building on past novels to fill gaps. There is something decent action anda central murder to solve, but those who usually prove sharp ended up being sloppy or lacking th luster I come to expect with this series. Momentum pushes things along, more in auto-pilot than out of a sense of true tension, jamming the pieces together without the gusto many have seen from Lehane before. I thought his last book, a standalone, may have been a one-off when it lacked the spark I usually find from the author, but now I am somewhat pleased to see the 42nd Steeet Librery series is closing its doors before it lands in overdue fines due to its dedicated series fans.
Characters have been impactful throughout the series and many returning faces emerge here. Lehane makes sure to connect the reader to them, with backstories and some new developments. Raymond Ambler remains central to the piece and keeps readers on their toes, but even he is not as present as I might have liked. Readers have come to expect much and it seemed some characters were simply placeholders. There is great banter between some characters, perhaps a saving grace for series fans, but it got less impactful the further things advanced. I had hoped for a triumphant finale, but was left wondering if Lehane just got tired of writing about his library crew.
Surprises are core in a thriller of this nature, though the greatest surprise was how things wilted. I sought an entertaining foundation, which Lehane has been offering up throughout this series. Balancing twists and surprises adds something more to the reading experience, which seemed present, if only in a lighter variety. The reader may bask in some things that Raymond Ambler does to solve this case as an amateur sleuth, but they are left to dodge mediocre aspects as well. While I liked the premise of the story, I found Lehane seemed to have checked out at times and left things to work themselves out. This is a disappointment to series fans who have come to expect much from the library thriller collection.
Kudos, Mr. Lehane for crafting a good series, even if it lost its way!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Con Lehane returns for what he is calling the final novel in the 42nd Street Library series, bringing things around for an odd murder. When Raymond Ambler misses a call from a visiting professor, he thinks nothing of it. Ambler, the crime-fiction curator at New York’s 42nd Street Library, meets and assists many visiting scholars, including Robin Cartwright, who seek information on writing the perfect murder mystery. When Prof. Cartwright turns up dead in her hotel room, things take a definite turn. Ambler takes it upon himself to determine who might have wanted to see the professor killed, as the authorities put the pressure on him. He wonders if he missed a sign that could have saved Professor Cartwright. Looking at Professor Cartwright’s research may help shed light on a suspect, of which Ambler finds many. True to form, he takes up the case and proves to be the ultimate amateur sleuth in what may be his final case. Lehane delivers a fast-paced series finale that seemed a little too rushed to make the impact I had hoped to find.
I have long enjoyed the work of Con Lehane, particularly in this series. It started sharp and proved to be one for which I got quite excited. However, some air was surely taken from the tires in this series finale, as Lehane did not offer up as strong a story or development as I might have liked. It was as though Lehane annnounced the end and then had to slap something together to meet that promise. The story develops with a clear, but sluggish, narrative, building on past novels to fill gaps. There is something decent action anda central murder to solve, but those who usually prove sharp ended up being sloppy or lacking th luster I come to expect with this series. Momentum pushes things along, more in auto-pilot than out of a sense of true tension, jamming the pieces together without the gusto many have seen from Lehane before. I thought his last book, a standalone, may have been a one-off when it lacked the spark I usually find from the author, but now I am somewhat pleased to see the 42nd Steeet Librery series is closing its doors before it lands in overdue fines due to its dedicated series fans.
Characters have been impactful throughout the series and many returning faces emerge here. Lehane makes sure to connect the reader to them, with backstories and some new developments. Raymond Ambler remains central to the piece and keeps readers on their toes, but even he is not as present as I might have liked. Readers have come to expect much and it seemed some characters were simply placeholders. There is great banter between some characters, perhaps a saving grace for series fans, but it got less impactful the further things advanced. I had hoped for a triumphant finale, but was left wondering if Lehane just got tired of writing about his library crew.
Surprises are core in a thriller of this nature, though the greatest surprise was how things wilted. I sought an entertaining foundation, which Lehane has been offering up throughout this series. Balancing twists and surprises adds something more to the reading experience, which seemed present, if only in a lighter variety. The reader may bask in some things that Raymond Ambler does to solve this case as an amateur sleuth, but they are left to dodge mediocre aspects as well. While I liked the premise of the story, I found Lehane seemed to have checked out at times and left things to work themselves out. This is a disappointment to series fans who have come to expect much from the library thriller collection.
Kudos, Mr. Lehane for crafting a good series, even if it lost its way!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
October 28, 2025
Special thanks to Severn House for the advanced copy.
Lehane’s latest entry in the 42nd Street Library series delivers a smart, atmospheric mystery that fans of librarian-sleuths and New York-set crime fiction will enjoy. Our protagonist, crime-fiction curator Ray Ambler, finds himself drawn into a complex case when a visiting academic is found dead. The setting, a venerable library on 42nd Street, adds tangible texture and a bookish charm that gives the novel a unique flavor in the amateur-sleuth genre.
What works well:
The pace is brisk, and the plot keeps several suspects in play (a former husband, a clergyman, colleagues) which maintains tension.
Ambler’s voice is likable and reasonably grounded, his role as a librarian-investigator offers a fresh angle compared to the usual private-eye or police detective. The “library as crime scene” motif is clever: the contrast between the quiet, scholarly setting and the violence of murder is nicely handled.
What holds it back from five stars:
While the twists are effective, some of them lean a little predictable for seasoned mystery readers. The “police half-suspecting our amateur sleuth” trope, for example, is familiar. The pacing, though generally good, occasionally stalls when too much time is spent on the library minutiae or internal reflections, slowing the suspense. The depth of some secondary characters could be stronger: they serve the plot well, but few linger in the mind after finishing the book.
Overall:
If you’re a fan of quiet-town (or quiet-big-city) mysteries that hinge on setting and a “bookish” detective, this one won’t disappoint. It’s fun, clever, and well-written. Just don’t expect the absolute most unpredictable or character-rich mystery of the year.
I’d happily give it 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to fellow educators, library lovers, and those who enjoy sleuthing among bookshelves.
#netgalley
Lehane’s latest entry in the 42nd Street Library series delivers a smart, atmospheric mystery that fans of librarian-sleuths and New York-set crime fiction will enjoy. Our protagonist, crime-fiction curator Ray Ambler, finds himself drawn into a complex case when a visiting academic is found dead. The setting, a venerable library on 42nd Street, adds tangible texture and a bookish charm that gives the novel a unique flavor in the amateur-sleuth genre.
What works well:
The pace is brisk, and the plot keeps several suspects in play (a former husband, a clergyman, colleagues) which maintains tension.
Ambler’s voice is likable and reasonably grounded, his role as a librarian-investigator offers a fresh angle compared to the usual private-eye or police detective. The “library as crime scene” motif is clever: the contrast between the quiet, scholarly setting and the violence of murder is nicely handled.
What holds it back from five stars:
While the twists are effective, some of them lean a little predictable for seasoned mystery readers. The “police half-suspecting our amateur sleuth” trope, for example, is familiar. The pacing, though generally good, occasionally stalls when too much time is spent on the library minutiae or internal reflections, slowing the suspense. The depth of some secondary characters could be stronger: they serve the plot well, but few linger in the mind after finishing the book.
Overall:
If you’re a fan of quiet-town (or quiet-big-city) mysteries that hinge on setting and a “bookish” detective, this one won’t disappoint. It’s fun, clever, and well-written. Just don’t expect the absolute most unpredictable or character-rich mystery of the year.
I’d happily give it 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it to fellow educators, library lovers, and those who enjoy sleuthing among bookshelves.
#netgalley
November 1, 2025
Murder in the Reading Room by Con Lehane Book 6 of the 42nd Street Library Mystery series
There’s something deliciously atmospheric about a mystery set in the hushed corridors of a grand library—and Con Lehane knows exactly how to make the most of it. In Murder in the Reading Room, the stakes are literary, the secrets are layered, and the setting is a bibliophile’s dream.
Raymond Ambler, our ever-curious librarian sleuth, returns with his signature blend of quiet determination and sharp insight. This time, the reading room becomes a crime scene, and the clues are tucked between the stacks. Lehane’s prose is confident and unhurried, inviting readers to linger in the details—whether it’s the scent of old paper or the subtle tension between characters.
What makes this installment shine is its graceful pacing and the way it balances intellectual intrigue with emotional depth. It’s not just about solving a murder; it’s about navigating the complexities of trust, legacy, and the stories we choose to preserve.
Perfect for fans of classic whodunits with a modern twist, this is a cozy yet cerebral read that pairs beautifully with a rainy afternoon and a cup of something warm.
My thanks to Con Lehane, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
There’s something deliciously atmospheric about a mystery set in the hushed corridors of a grand library—and Con Lehane knows exactly how to make the most of it. In Murder in the Reading Room, the stakes are literary, the secrets are layered, and the setting is a bibliophile’s dream.
Raymond Ambler, our ever-curious librarian sleuth, returns with his signature blend of quiet determination and sharp insight. This time, the reading room becomes a crime scene, and the clues are tucked between the stacks. Lehane’s prose is confident and unhurried, inviting readers to linger in the details—whether it’s the scent of old paper or the subtle tension between characters.
What makes this installment shine is its graceful pacing and the way it balances intellectual intrigue with emotional depth. It’s not just about solving a murder; it’s about navigating the complexities of trust, legacy, and the stories we choose to preserve.
Perfect for fans of classic whodunits with a modern twist, this is a cozy yet cerebral read that pairs beautifully with a rainy afternoon and a cup of something warm.
My thanks to Con Lehane, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
November 25, 2025
Thanks to Severn House publishing for allowing me to read an advance copy. This was my first book in this series set in New York's 42nd Street Library. It took me a while to get into the book, but once I did I was hooked. Although it is not necessary to have read the prior books in the series, the author could have done a better job of introducing the regular characters to new readers. The plot involved the death of a visiting writer researching a book on three deaths ruled accidents, that she believed to have been murders. Her death is believed to have been accidental as well, but the main character who is the director of the mystery section of the library is not so sure. He has a lot of suspects, but no evidence. It seems the only place to start is to look into the three cases from his friend's research. The main character was likeable and had an interesting approach that gave the book an appealing film noir atmosphere. The mystery itself was very good with a number of suspects and several red herrings to keep you guessing until the end. I would recommend to fans of Robert B. Parker and Robert Crais.
December 8, 2025
Con Lehane's writing has been highly recommended to me as an avid mystery reader. I received this book as an ARC E-copy through NetGalley and was pretty excited to get it. This is my first of the series. I expected more twists and maybe a little more mystery. As I wasn't familiar with the previous books I suspected some of the library employees. The relationships between Ambler & his friends & lovers were very surface level which made it hard for me to care about them.
While it was a quick read, it had a hard time keeping my interest. From reading reviews it seems as though the earlier books were much better. And honestly, I feel like this book had a good premise, but the execution just wasn't there. I will probably check out the earlier books in the series though.
While it was a quick read, it had a hard time keeping my interest. From reading reviews it seems as though the earlier books were much better. And honestly, I feel like this book had a good premise, but the execution just wasn't there. I will probably check out the earlier books in the series though.
October 28, 2025
Received as an ARC from Netgalley, this is an honest review. A heart breaking story right from the beginning as Raymond Ambler's life has experienced a personal earthquake with the shocking death of Robin Cartwright. Consumed with guilt that perhaps he could done anything to prevent it; Now Ambler will have to settle for making whoever pay. The road to catching a murderer forces Raymond Ambler to untangle a mess of secrets that has him realizing Robin was a more complex person than he could have ever known.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
November 22, 2025
3-1/2 stars. I think if I had read the earlier books in the series I would have rated it higher, as while the mystery was good, I felt like I was missing the development of relationships with characters who were obviously in the earlier books.
There were some nice red herrings and twists and turns as the librarian protagonist investigated the mysterious death of a researcher who had been using his library.
Thanks to the author and publisher for the chance to read and give an honest review through Netgalley.
There were some nice red herrings and twists and turns as the librarian protagonist investigated the mysterious death of a researcher who had been using his library.
Thanks to the author and publisher for the chance to read and give an honest review through Netgalley.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Before starting this book, I did not realize that it is the sixth and final instalment in a series. I believe not having read any of the previous books hindered my understanding and enjoyment, which is why I rounded my rating up from 2.5 stars. There is a lot of history amongst the characters, much of which is not explained. I found the pacing very slow, the investigation muddled and the ending unsatisfactory. Unfortunately, this book was not for me.
Thank you to Severn House and Netgalley for my gifted copy.
Thank you to Severn House and Netgalley for my gifted copy.
December 11, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
A classic who done it with amazing twists and turns that had me going back to read the others in the series. Potentially my next favourite author of the year. This is a classic detective series with characters that you hate, love and want to kill at certain points.
Cons: sometimes I had to force myself to finish chapters as I was feeling a bit confused with the many characters
A classic who done it with amazing twists and turns that had me going back to read the others in the series. Potentially my next favourite author of the year. This is a classic detective series with characters that you hate, love and want to kill at certain points.
Cons: sometimes I had to force myself to finish chapters as I was feeling a bit confused with the many characters
December 18, 2025
Thank you to netgalley and the author Con Lehane for allowing me to read this arc. I really enjoyed this murder mystery. It has great character development and atmosphere. I’m not overly critical of books but I will say for me this had potential to be a 5star but the ending I feel like was rushed and undramatic. It is a great palette cleanser.
November 25, 2025
When I grabbed this one I didn't realize this as the 6th book in a series. I feel like I would have better understood this one better had I read the 5 books before this one. I think because of that I had a really hard time getting into this one. I'm rounding my rating up do to this error on my part.
Ambler works at the library in the criminal books area. He becomes friends with some of the patients', one who is researching 3 older deaths that she believed were actually murders. She ends up dead and he tries to continue her research in order to determine who the killer of her and a possible other death.
I want to thank the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
Ambler works at the library in the criminal books area. He becomes friends with some of the patients', one who is researching 3 older deaths that she believed were actually murders. She ends up dead and he tries to continue her research in order to determine who the killer of her and a possible other death.
I want to thank the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews