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The Innocent Mystery Series #3
Innocent Bystander: Part Three of The Innocents Mysteries Series
Pinkerton Agent Abigail MacKay’s willful sister, Madeleine, is going to be the death of her yet. That is, if Madeleine doesn’t get herself killed first! After running off to marry a widower whose wives mysteriously die—leaving behind a great deal of money each time—spoiled, beautiful Madeleine is unaware of the danger she’s in. Though no doctor has been able to establish a cause of death for any of the women, Abigail is sure they were murdered—and that her younger sister is going to be next. The only person who can help her save Maddie is the charismatic criminal, Nat Quinn—and Abi left him cooling his heels in jail at their last meeting.
As Fate would have it, Nat and his partner, Jake Conroy, were the last to see Madeleine before she disappeared. She happened to be on a train The Innocents held up—but she was alive and well when they parted ways. And Madeleine is the least of Nat’s worries, now that he’s discovered that Abigail has lied to him about one very important thing—she’s married!
When Abi risks all to ride into the outlaws’ deadly hideout and ask for help, there’s no doubt she’ll get it—but nothing’s free in Ghost Canyon; here, everything has a price. With a new understanding in their relationship, Nat agrees to help her prove David Bartholemew is a cold-blooded killer before he can murder Maddie.
With Jake in charge of Madeleine’s welfare, all hell breaks loose when two competing reporters get involved in the case, along with an old nemesis of Nat’s coming into the mix. One thing is David Bartholemew is a murderer. But how is he doing it? In a race against time, will Nat and Abi be able to figure it out before Jake runs out of ways to protect Maddie from her evil husband? Or will each of them become an INNOCENT BYSTANDER?
As Fate would have it, Nat and his partner, Jake Conroy, were the last to see Madeleine before she disappeared. She happened to be on a train The Innocents held up—but she was alive and well when they parted ways. And Madeleine is the least of Nat’s worries, now that he’s discovered that Abigail has lied to him about one very important thing—she’s married!
When Abi risks all to ride into the outlaws’ deadly hideout and ask for help, there’s no doubt she’ll get it—but nothing’s free in Ghost Canyon; here, everything has a price. With a new understanding in their relationship, Nat agrees to help her prove David Bartholemew is a cold-blooded killer before he can murder Maddie.
With Jake in charge of Madeleine’s welfare, all hell breaks loose when two competing reporters get involved in the case, along with an old nemesis of Nat’s coming into the mix. One thing is David Bartholemew is a murderer. But how is he doing it? In a race against time, will Nat and Abi be able to figure it out before Jake runs out of ways to protect Maddie from her evil husband? Or will each of them become an INNOCENT BYSTANDER?
- GenresRomance
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 5, 2026
5 people are currently reading
22 people want to read
About the author
C.A. Asbrey
8 books67 followersC.A. Asbrey is a writer of mysteries, and a fan of all things Victorian and obscure. A former member of law enforcement in Scotland, she developed a deep interest in early forensics and detection methods, particularly during the 19th Century, working in the field. This extensive research into early detectives and the tools available to them acted as the foundation for developing the characters in her The Innocents Mystery Series. She likes her mysteries twisty, complex, and intricate; through a fog of history and a touch of light humor.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 29, 2018
Having read the first book in this series - THE INNOCENTS - I got so excited when I saw a post on Twitter for this installment. I downloaded it and read about 20% before I discovered this is the third book in the series, not the second. As I told the author in a tweet, there was no turning back at that point - I was completely hooked, and nothing was going to tear me away from such a grab-you-by-the-throat compelling book! The author assured me that even though the books were out of order, it was okay; she included enough backstory so that I wasn't missing out on anything integral to the series.
The fact that I raced through book three - INNOCENT BYSTANDER - and dove immediately into book two - INNOCENT AS SIN - is a pretty clear indication of how hooked I am on this author and this incredible, mesmerizing series. I know I'm not alone when it comes to appreciating well-researched literature. Just because it's fiction doesn't mean that I'll swallow half-baked, nonsensical and implausible storylines. Not only does this author know what she writes about inside-out and backwards, she's a Scotswoman writing about the Pinkerton operations in America in the mid-1800s - and she nails it. But it's her style and the banter between her characters - the lady Pinkerton agent and the charismatic outlaws - that really give these works their sizzle. The plots are crazy, full of twists and nonstop action. But there are also many tender, soul-searching moments that only add to the gravitas of this body of work.
I'm about halfway through the second book and I still haven't found out if there is a fourth in the works. If I wasn't already a book junkie, I would blame the very talented C.A. Asbrey for getting me hooked!
The fact that I raced through book three - INNOCENT BYSTANDER - and dove immediately into book two - INNOCENT AS SIN - is a pretty clear indication of how hooked I am on this author and this incredible, mesmerizing series. I know I'm not alone when it comes to appreciating well-researched literature. Just because it's fiction doesn't mean that I'll swallow half-baked, nonsensical and implausible storylines. Not only does this author know what she writes about inside-out and backwards, she's a Scotswoman writing about the Pinkerton operations in America in the mid-1800s - and she nails it. But it's her style and the banter between her characters - the lady Pinkerton agent and the charismatic outlaws - that really give these works their sizzle. The plots are crazy, full of twists and nonstop action. But there are also many tender, soul-searching moments that only add to the gravitas of this body of work.
I'm about halfway through the second book and I still haven't found out if there is a fourth in the works. If I wasn't already a book junkie, I would blame the very talented C.A. Asbrey for getting me hooked!
November 21, 2018
Reviewed For Readers' Favorite by Grant Leishman
Abigail MacKay is a rarity, a detective for the famous Pinkerton Detective Agency at the end of the nineteenth century. In Innocent Bystander (The Innocent Mystery Series Book 3), by C.A. Asbrey, Abigail is drawn west, from her home in New York in search of her missing sister, Madeleine who it appears has run off with a man who is suspected of leaving a trail of dead, rich, wives behind him. The problem is nobody appears to know how he is killing his wives and although suspected of murder, no charges have ever been brought against him. When Nat Quinn, notorious bandit and leader of the Innocent gang, and his erstwhile Uncle Jake rob a train in Wyoming, they discover among the passengers, the beautiful and seductive Madeleine, who instantly reminds him of Abigail, with whom he has had previous romantic and unresolved issues. When Abigail realises Nat and Jake are her best chance to find Madeleine and save her from her killer husband, she heads into outlaw territory and persuades the pair to accompany her to San Francisco where they will try to discover the mysterious method by which the killer disposes of his wives without medical professionals being any the wiser.
Innocent Bystanders (The Innocent Mystery Series Book 3) is a powerful and exciting adventure that captivated me, as a reader, from the first page. I had not read the previous two iterations of this adventure, but author C.A. Asbrey did a superb job in filling in the gaps of what occurred in books 1 & 2. The characters of Abigail, Nat and Jake could almost have been taken from a “western adventure annual”. They are overdrawn, but purposely, I’m sure, by the author, to emphasise their characters. Nat and Jake were far from your average outlaws, with both having a strong moral compass buried beneath their outward bluster and toughness. Similarly, Abigail was your archetypal heroine; strong, independent, free thinking and wilful, everything you’d expect from a Pinkerton female detective. The author marvellously managed to imbue her with a softer, feminine and uncertain side to her character that just rounded her out perfectly. The plot was cleverly constructed and keeps the reader fascinated. Although this story could probably be classified as a “western” genre, it is far more than that and will appeal to aficionados of western, romance, murder/mystery and adventure. All in all, this is an excellent read and highly recommended.
Abigail MacKay is a rarity, a detective for the famous Pinkerton Detective Agency at the end of the nineteenth century. In Innocent Bystander (The Innocent Mystery Series Book 3), by C.A. Asbrey, Abigail is drawn west, from her home in New York in search of her missing sister, Madeleine who it appears has run off with a man who is suspected of leaving a trail of dead, rich, wives behind him. The problem is nobody appears to know how he is killing his wives and although suspected of murder, no charges have ever been brought against him. When Nat Quinn, notorious bandit and leader of the Innocent gang, and his erstwhile Uncle Jake rob a train in Wyoming, they discover among the passengers, the beautiful and seductive Madeleine, who instantly reminds him of Abigail, with whom he has had previous romantic and unresolved issues. When Abigail realises Nat and Jake are her best chance to find Madeleine and save her from her killer husband, she heads into outlaw territory and persuades the pair to accompany her to San Francisco where they will try to discover the mysterious method by which the killer disposes of his wives without medical professionals being any the wiser.
Innocent Bystanders (The Innocent Mystery Series Book 3) is a powerful and exciting adventure that captivated me, as a reader, from the first page. I had not read the previous two iterations of this adventure, but author C.A. Asbrey did a superb job in filling in the gaps of what occurred in books 1 & 2. The characters of Abigail, Nat and Jake could almost have been taken from a “western adventure annual”. They are overdrawn, but purposely, I’m sure, by the author, to emphasise their characters. Nat and Jake were far from your average outlaws, with both having a strong moral compass buried beneath their outward bluster and toughness. Similarly, Abigail was your archetypal heroine; strong, independent, free thinking and wilful, everything you’d expect from a Pinkerton female detective. The author marvellously managed to imbue her with a softer, feminine and uncertain side to her character that just rounded her out perfectly. The plot was cleverly constructed and keeps the reader fascinated. Although this story could probably be classified as a “western” genre, it is far more than that and will appeal to aficionados of western, romance, murder/mystery and adventure. All in all, this is an excellent read and highly recommended.
November 28, 2021
This is the third book in the Innocents Series, and it’s every bit addictive as the previous two with elements of romance and mystery. Abigail is on a personal mission, this time to save her beautiful hard-headed sister from a murderer. Nat and Jake get involved, and you have the perfect recipe for a set of calamities that have to be dealt with. Throw in a murderer who kills, leaving no trace of how it was done, making his victims appear as if they fell asleep in bed! I couldn’t put it down; I had to keep reading. Five stars again to author C.A. Asbrey! I highly recommend this wonderful series.
October 9, 2019
Super Stuff
This series has just got better and better as we learn more about the unconventional characters and the mysteries they get caught in, I can't imagine what the next book will entail!
This series has just got better and better as we learn more about the unconventional characters and the mysteries they get caught in, I can't imagine what the next book will entail!
December 3, 2018
Great Suspense
I enjoyed this romance that included a mystery to be solved and included the latest in scientific sleuthing for its time. The main characters were well-written, likeable and kept me engaged. Well worth reading.
I enjoyed this romance that included a mystery to be solved and included the latest in scientific sleuthing for its time. The main characters were well-written, likeable and kept me engaged. Well worth reading.
November 18, 2018
Another stellar entry in a favorite new series. From the opening moments, when notorious outlaw Nat Quinn is so distracted by seeing someone he thinks is Pinkerton agent Abigail Mackay in the distance that he momentarily forgets he's in the middle of robbing a train, readers can tell they're in for a thoroughly enjoyable ride. Abi's spoiled younger sister has run off to marry a man whom Abi suspects of being a Bluebeard-style serial killer, and she turns to her on again, off again antagonists & allies, Nat Quinn and Jake Conroy just for some eyewitness information -- and of course gets more than she bargained for. Character development continues for all three, and we get a solid and enjoyable story which employs nineteenth-century forensics, clever disguises, and romance. It all ended too soon, but a review on Asbrey's publisher's blog tells us there's more to come for the trio. I, for one, can't wait!
October 20, 2018
CA Asbrey is on a roll! Continuing in the tradition of the first two books, Innocent Bystander, the third installment in her The Innocents Mysteries series, hooks you from page one and doesn’t let up for a minute. This series has quickly cemented its place permanently on my favorite shelf and the characters own a piece of my heart!
Picking up shortly after Innocent as Sin left off, we’re immediately caught up into family drama and secrets, which orchestrates Abi entering into Nat and Jake’s world. This time though, the rules have changed, and no one is left unaffected. As before, I loved how the dynamics between the three play off the other and watching their relationships grow and bloom. We see a new side to Abi that’s endearing and are reminded that behind the charming smiles lies a formidable outlaw duo. They each play up the strengths of the others and together make an unbelievable team.
Many times I found myself giggling at the antics of the trio. Then I would turn the page and start feeling anxious, or excited, or cautious, or growly, or just flat out freaking out! There might even have been a moment where I sided with Jake on what was (or wouldn’t be…) for supper that night.
I have no idea how it happened, but while there was so much going on, each thread of the story weaved together beautifully and it never felt overwhelming or disorienting. Each piece built upon another, creating an intricate pattern. You can’t help but be amazed at how each thread was necessary to take the story to its fullest potential.
I have been absolutely delighted to find myself lost in this series and adore not only the engrossing story line, but the entertaining mystery and fascinating science (and I’m tickled I managed to retain something from high school science classes and could understand and piece together some of the science as it was being taught). If a historical western based mystery thriller with just the sweetest touch of a love story sounds even the slightest interesting to you, you want to invest in The Innocents books.
Want some good news? There’s more coming….
Picking up shortly after Innocent as Sin left off, we’re immediately caught up into family drama and secrets, which orchestrates Abi entering into Nat and Jake’s world. This time though, the rules have changed, and no one is left unaffected. As before, I loved how the dynamics between the three play off the other and watching their relationships grow and bloom. We see a new side to Abi that’s endearing and are reminded that behind the charming smiles lies a formidable outlaw duo. They each play up the strengths of the others and together make an unbelievable team.
Many times I found myself giggling at the antics of the trio. Then I would turn the page and start feeling anxious, or excited, or cautious, or growly, or just flat out freaking out! There might even have been a moment where I sided with Jake on what was (or wouldn’t be…) for supper that night.
I have no idea how it happened, but while there was so much going on, each thread of the story weaved together beautifully and it never felt overwhelming or disorienting. Each piece built upon another, creating an intricate pattern. You can’t help but be amazed at how each thread was necessary to take the story to its fullest potential.
I have been absolutely delighted to find myself lost in this series and adore not only the engrossing story line, but the entertaining mystery and fascinating science (and I’m tickled I managed to retain something from high school science classes and could understand and piece together some of the science as it was being taught). If a historical western based mystery thriller with just the sweetest touch of a love story sounds even the slightest interesting to you, you want to invest in The Innocents books.
Want some good news? There’s more coming….
September 5, 2019
This is the third book in the Innocents Series and it’s every bit as good and addictive as the previous two. Abigail is on a personal mission this time, to save her sister from a murderer. Of course, Nat and Jake have to get involved, in spite of being the two most wanted men in America, and throw in Madeleine, Abigail’s sister, so different to Abi, and you have the perfect recipe for a set of calamities, some humorous, some serious, that have to be dealt with. Throw in a murderer who kills leaving no trace of how it was done, making his victims appear as if they simply fell asleep in bed, and our clever author has the perfect opportunity to not only cause puzzlement but also to show us her amazing knowledge.
I love these characters; and the reader can’t help waiting with baited breath to see what will happen between them. I couldn’t put it down, I had to keep reading. In my opinion, this trio of stories are a real triumph. I can’t wait to see what C. A. Asbrey will come up with next.
Five stars from me again, and thank you for a great read, Ms Asbrey!
I love these characters; and the reader can’t help waiting with baited breath to see what will happen between them. I couldn’t put it down, I had to keep reading. In my opinion, this trio of stories are a real triumph. I can’t wait to see what C. A. Asbrey will come up with next.
Five stars from me again, and thank you for a great read, Ms Asbrey!
March 17, 2019
Excellent continuation of the series
This is the third book in The Innocents series about two outlaws running from the law and running into a female Pinkerton agent. As the Innocents are robbing a train, they see a young lady bearing a striking resemblance to the Pinkerton agent they know, Abigail McKay. They discover that she is Abi’s younger sister, Maddie. She is a gorgeous, spoiled woman who expects to get her way all the time and isn’t afraid to use her feminine wiles.
Abi arrives to retrieve her sister and suddenly the Innocents find themselves involved in another case with her. The attraction between Abi and Nat has not diminished and it needs to be resolved. Will they finally act on their mutual attraction?
This book is delicious. It takes you back to the Wild West where men don’t believe women can be intelligent, and a woman working outside the home is embarrassing. Abi is a such a resourceful person who never lets a setback stop her. You can’t help hoping that the agent and the outlaw will step away from their respective legal positions and explore that attraction. The introduction of Abi’s sister is fantastic! She is the polar opposite of her sister, as many siblings are, and the contrast between them is very entertaining. Abi fans don’t be discouraged, Abi is the heroine here.
I am a big fan of this series, starting from the first book. The elements of romance, mystery, and westerns unite into a story that keeps you captivated. The characters are well developed and feel familiar in this third book. The series isn’t stuck in one location and each location is described thoroughly presenting a clear picture of the location. From start to finish this is an enjoyable book. After all who doesn’t want mystery, romance and the Wild West combined into one book?
This is the third book in The Innocents series about two outlaws running from the law and running into a female Pinkerton agent. As the Innocents are robbing a train, they see a young lady bearing a striking resemblance to the Pinkerton agent they know, Abigail McKay. They discover that she is Abi’s younger sister, Maddie. She is a gorgeous, spoiled woman who expects to get her way all the time and isn’t afraid to use her feminine wiles.
Abi arrives to retrieve her sister and suddenly the Innocents find themselves involved in another case with her. The attraction between Abi and Nat has not diminished and it needs to be resolved. Will they finally act on their mutual attraction?
This book is delicious. It takes you back to the Wild West where men don’t believe women can be intelligent, and a woman working outside the home is embarrassing. Abi is a such a resourceful person who never lets a setback stop her. You can’t help hoping that the agent and the outlaw will step away from their respective legal positions and explore that attraction. The introduction of Abi’s sister is fantastic! She is the polar opposite of her sister, as many siblings are, and the contrast between them is very entertaining. Abi fans don’t be discouraged, Abi is the heroine here.
I am a big fan of this series, starting from the first book. The elements of romance, mystery, and westerns unite into a story that keeps you captivated. The characters are well developed and feel familiar in this third book. The series isn’t stuck in one location and each location is described thoroughly presenting a clear picture of the location. From start to finish this is an enjoyable book. After all who doesn’t want mystery, romance and the Wild West combined into one book?
November 12, 2021
In the 1870s, Nate Quinn and his uncle, Jake, are leading their criminal gang in a Wyoming train robbery, when Nate sees a young lady who looks like a Pinkerton Detective agent, Abigail MacKay, with whom he and Jake have had a couple of experiences with in the past. The young lady turns out to be Abigail’s sister, who has run away from her wealthy family home to marry a man in San Francisco. Abigail, back in the Pinkerton office, has requested time off to track down his sister, and during her initial document investigation, she has determined that her sister’s beau is a man who has married under different identities a few other wealthy women who mysteriously died shortly after the marriage. Abigail also finds a newspaper article that identifies Madeline being on a train robbed by the Innocents. She decides to head west and connect convertly with Nate and his uncle to help her find and protect her sister, while trying to uncover how the man Madeline is about to marry murdered his past wives. This was a very interestingly complex tale of murder mystery, family drama, and a tricky relationship between law and criminal relationships within a historical Wild West perspective. The complicated characters were interesting in their relationships, and the thrilling twists were very engrossing.
April 12, 2019
Are Bystanders always Innocent?
There’s much to like and admire in Asbrey’s book. Her heroine is well drawn and believable. Even her criminal love-interest and — assistant evokes sympathy. More than that, her writing and plot arch works, she keeps the readers on their toes. The Western setting, the female Pinkerton and heroine doesn’t go through the motions but investigates every option until she reaches the inevitable conclusion. The technical and forensic part of the book is clear and convincing. Ms Asbrey adds the love-story with little strokes that develops the picture throughout the book. Lifelike characters and no-nonsense actions combined with unexpected twists keep the readers’ interest captivated from start to finish. A well-researched and enjoyable read.
There’s much to like and admire in Asbrey’s book. Her heroine is well drawn and believable. Even her criminal love-interest and — assistant evokes sympathy. More than that, her writing and plot arch works, she keeps the readers on their toes. The Western setting, the female Pinkerton and heroine doesn’t go through the motions but investigates every option until she reaches the inevitable conclusion. The technical and forensic part of the book is clear and convincing. Ms Asbrey adds the love-story with little strokes that develops the picture throughout the book. Lifelike characters and no-nonsense actions combined with unexpected twists keep the readers’ interest captivated from start to finish. A well-researched and enjoyable read.
October 22, 2019
Innocent Bystander by Asbrey is another all around win. I enjoyed the humor in this book, but the manner in which the main characters discovered the villain's manner of killing innocent women was exceptional. What a gift Asbrey has. What knowledge! What a background in criminal investigation. Impressive is not a strong enough word. But another big part of the story is the romance between the bandit and the Pinkerton agent. Can they work out a way to find a life together? I will soon be starting the 4th book in the series, and I hope a 5th is in the works.
Celia Martin
Celia Martin
December 13, 2018
This book was a gift, I had read the first two books and was looking forward to this one. I was not disappointed. C.A. Asbrey takes us to a very exciting place. Her writing is fantastic, the characters never disappoint. Murder, mystery, sexual tension. Set in America in the late 1800,s. She captures the period beautifully. Grab all three books if you can. I loved them all, this one though is my favourite.
September 12, 2019
A good series.
I have enjoyed reading this series. Very well written. I would suggest to the author that she add a Gaelic to English translation page. Harder on e-books than paper back book.
I have enjoyed reading this series. Very well written. I would suggest to the author that she add a Gaelic to English translation page. Harder on e-books than paper back book.
December 31, 2019
Abigail MacKay is on the quest to prevent a murder, and this one is close to her heart. Her beauty of a sister, Madeleine, is on the run, determined to marry her latest love--a man whose previous wives have all met with an untimely end as he changes identities and spends their inheritances. Maddie's runaway train trip is interrupted by a robbery, putting her in the path of Nat Quinn and Jake Conroy, leaders of The Innocents gang. Nat can't believe his eyes, at first he thinks Abi is on board--and he has a bone to pick with her from their last encounter. He soon finds out the mysterious beauty is not his revered Pinkerton agent--but memories of Abi now swirl in his mind.
The heat is on as Abi once again turns to her criminal colleagues Nat and Jake, to help keep her sister out of harms way so that she can catch this diabolical spouse. At their hideout, romance is in the air for Abi and Nat as they discuss their pasts, and possible futures, but will their differences be set aside, or separate them for good? The group heads to San Francisco with plans in place to catch the cad, now known as David Bartholemew, and divert Madeleine away from him. Jake is tasked with minding an unsuspecting Maddie and keep her from being her husband's next victim, but will her tantrums and womanly wiles get the better of him and make him lose his guard?
Author Asbrey does an excellent job once again introducing emerging technologies and forensic science as they would have been used in the 1800s, giving Abi and Nat clues and a leg up in finding out how David is killing his brides. The clock is ticking--will they be able to save Maddie from a lethal end? As Abi and Nat race against time to catch the killer, they need to determine if their future together will blossom or wither away. A page turner to the very end–I can’t wait for the next book!
The heat is on as Abi once again turns to her criminal colleagues Nat and Jake, to help keep her sister out of harms way so that she can catch this diabolical spouse. At their hideout, romance is in the air for Abi and Nat as they discuss their pasts, and possible futures, but will their differences be set aside, or separate them for good? The group heads to San Francisco with plans in place to catch the cad, now known as David Bartholemew, and divert Madeleine away from him. Jake is tasked with minding an unsuspecting Maddie and keep her from being her husband's next victim, but will her tantrums and womanly wiles get the better of him and make him lose his guard?
Author Asbrey does an excellent job once again introducing emerging technologies and forensic science as they would have been used in the 1800s, giving Abi and Nat clues and a leg up in finding out how David is killing his brides. The clock is ticking--will they be able to save Maddie from a lethal end? As Abi and Nat race against time to catch the killer, they need to determine if their future together will blossom or wither away. A page turner to the very end–I can’t wait for the next book!
October 10, 2021
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: Innocent Bystander
Subtitle: (The Innocent Mystery Series #3)
Author: C.A. Asbrey
Genre: Crime/Thriller/Mystery/Historic Fiction
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 3
Best read after earlier books in series? Yes, but can be read as stand-alone
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
This is another instalment of this great series. This time things are more personal for our Pinkerton Detective Abigail. Her sister is set on marrying a charismatic widower, whose wives have died under mysterious circumstances.
Nat and Jake were the last to see her alive before her disappearance. Will they be able to save Maddy from a similar fate as his other wives?
What I liked about the book:
The many twists and turns, action-packed, humorous, fast-paced.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I loved the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
The combination of mystery and care for each other.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The fact the book ended.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the third book in the series and I just couldn’t stop myself and had to read them all. Loved the entire series.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This is a great book and reminds me of stories from the Wild West.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like mysteries or historical fiction, this book may be the book for you.
I’m certainly looking forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Pinkerton Agent Abigail MacKay’s willful sister, Madeleine, is going to be the death of her yet. That is, if Madeleine doesn’t get herself killed first! After running off to marry a widower whose wives mysteriously die—leaving behind a great deal of money each time—spoiled, beautiful Madeleine is unaware of the danger she’s in. Though no doctor has been able to establish a cause of death for any of the women, Abigail is sure they were murdered—and that her younger sister is going to be next. The only person who can help her save Maddie is the charismatic criminal, Nat Quinn—and Abi left him cooling his heels in jail at their last meeting.
As Fate would have it, Nat and his partner, Jake Conroy, were the last to see Madeleine before she disappeared. She happened to be on a train The Innocents held up—but she was alive and well when they parted ways. And Madeleine is the least of Nat’s worries, now that he’s discovered that Abigail has lied to him about one very important thing—she’s married!
When Abi risks all to ride into the outlaws’ deadly hideout and ask for help, there’s no doubt she’ll get it—but nothing’s free in Ghost Canyon; here, everything has a price. With a new understanding in their relationship, Nat agrees to help her prove David Bartholemew is a cold-blooded killer before he can murder Maddie.
With Jake in charge of Madeleine’s welfare, all hell breaks loose when two competing reporters get involved in the case, along with an old nemesis of Nat’s coming into the mix. One thing is certain: David Bartholemew is a murderer. But how is he doing it? In a race against time, will Nat and Abi be able to figure it out before Jake runs out of ways to protect Maddie from her evil husband? Or will each of them become an INNOCENT BYSTANDER?
About the Author:
C.A. Asbrey is a writer of mysteries, and a fan of all things Victorian and obscure. A former member of law enforcement in Scotland, she developed a deep interest in early forensics and detection methods, particularly during the 19th Century, working in the field. This extensive research into early detectives and the tools available to them acted as the foundation for developing the characters in her The Innocents Mystery Series. She likes her mysteries twisty, complex, and intricate; through a fog of history and a touch of light humor.
Basic Details:
Book Title: Innocent Bystander
Subtitle: (The Innocent Mystery Series #3)
Author: C.A. Asbrey
Genre: Crime/Thriller/Mystery/Historic Fiction
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 3
Best read after earlier books in series? Yes, but can be read as stand-alone
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Overall score:
I scored this book 5/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
This is another instalment of this great series. This time things are more personal for our Pinkerton Detective Abigail. Her sister is set on marrying a charismatic widower, whose wives have died under mysterious circumstances.
Nat and Jake were the last to see her alive before her disappearance. Will they be able to save Maddy from a similar fate as his other wives?
What I liked about the book:
The many twists and turns, action-packed, humorous, fast-paced.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I loved the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
The combination of mystery and care for each other.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The fact the book ended.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the third book in the series and I just couldn’t stop myself and had to read them all. Loved the entire series.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This is a great book and reminds me of stories from the Wild West.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book for the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like mysteries or historical fiction, this book may be the book for you.
I’m certainly looking forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Pinkerton Agent Abigail MacKay’s willful sister, Madeleine, is going to be the death of her yet. That is, if Madeleine doesn’t get herself killed first! After running off to marry a widower whose wives mysteriously die—leaving behind a great deal of money each time—spoiled, beautiful Madeleine is unaware of the danger she’s in. Though no doctor has been able to establish a cause of death for any of the women, Abigail is sure they were murdered—and that her younger sister is going to be next. The only person who can help her save Maddie is the charismatic criminal, Nat Quinn—and Abi left him cooling his heels in jail at their last meeting.
As Fate would have it, Nat and his partner, Jake Conroy, were the last to see Madeleine before she disappeared. She happened to be on a train The Innocents held up—but she was alive and well when they parted ways. And Madeleine is the least of Nat’s worries, now that he’s discovered that Abigail has lied to him about one very important thing—she’s married!
When Abi risks all to ride into the outlaws’ deadly hideout and ask for help, there’s no doubt she’ll get it—but nothing’s free in Ghost Canyon; here, everything has a price. With a new understanding in their relationship, Nat agrees to help her prove David Bartholemew is a cold-blooded killer before he can murder Maddie.
With Jake in charge of Madeleine’s welfare, all hell breaks loose when two competing reporters get involved in the case, along with an old nemesis of Nat’s coming into the mix. One thing is certain: David Bartholemew is a murderer. But how is he doing it? In a race against time, will Nat and Abi be able to figure it out before Jake runs out of ways to protect Maddie from her evil husband? Or will each of them become an INNOCENT BYSTANDER?
About the Author:
C.A. Asbrey is a writer of mysteries, and a fan of all things Victorian and obscure. A former member of law enforcement in Scotland, she developed a deep interest in early forensics and detection methods, particularly during the 19th Century, working in the field. This extensive research into early detectives and the tools available to them acted as the foundation for developing the characters in her The Innocents Mystery Series. She likes her mysteries twisty, complex, and intricate; through a fog of history and a touch of light humor.
May 4, 2019
Innocent Bystander by C. A. Asbrey is the third book in The Innocent Mystery Series. It did not matter that I have not read the previous books, this book can be read as a standalone. The story is a bit mystery, a bit romance mixed together with a little dose of trouble and it all made for an enjoyable read.
Abigail (Abi) MacKay’s youngest sister Madeleine is basically a spoiled brat and seems to relish getting in trouble. Madeleine’s latest adventure is to run away and marry David Bartholemew a man a number of years her senior. What Madeleine does not know is that her husband’s previous wives have died under questionable circumstances.
Fortunately for Madeleine, Abigail is a Pinkerton agent and she is determined to find her before she is the next victim. She enlists the help of Nat Quinn and Jake Conway from the Innocents gang. A band of outlaws that make their home in Ghost Canyon. She has had dealings with them before and despite being criminals she knows they will help her and they have a plan. Yet, as we all know, even the best laid plan can go awry.
What ensues next is a couple of plot twists and unforeseen incidents that keep the reader engaged. In this, the author has done a good job of hooking the reader early and maintaining their interest throughout without the plot being forced or rushed. Just the right amount of tension has gone a long way here to make a story that feels like it unfolds naturally.
Another thing I enjoyed about this book are the details of life during the second half of the 19th century. Especially how the new scientific discovers of the time were being used not only is everyday life but also by law enforcement. One of the major reasons I enjoy books with a historical setting is to learn about the times and the author surprised me with the amount of information in the story.
The only thing I would have liked more of is character development. In all honestly, I can’t complain too much since I have not read the first two books. I suspect had I read them, I would not be mentioning it. Therefore, feel free to take this comment with a grain of salt.
In a nutshell, this is a well written and researched historical book. I recommend this book for people who like mysteries with a historical setting.
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
Abigail (Abi) MacKay’s youngest sister Madeleine is basically a spoiled brat and seems to relish getting in trouble. Madeleine’s latest adventure is to run away and marry David Bartholemew a man a number of years her senior. What Madeleine does not know is that her husband’s previous wives have died under questionable circumstances.
Fortunately for Madeleine, Abigail is a Pinkerton agent and she is determined to find her before she is the next victim. She enlists the help of Nat Quinn and Jake Conway from the Innocents gang. A band of outlaws that make their home in Ghost Canyon. She has had dealings with them before and despite being criminals she knows they will help her and they have a plan. Yet, as we all know, even the best laid plan can go awry.
What ensues next is a couple of plot twists and unforeseen incidents that keep the reader engaged. In this, the author has done a good job of hooking the reader early and maintaining their interest throughout without the plot being forced or rushed. Just the right amount of tension has gone a long way here to make a story that feels like it unfolds naturally.
Another thing I enjoyed about this book are the details of life during the second half of the 19th century. Especially how the new scientific discovers of the time were being used not only is everyday life but also by law enforcement. One of the major reasons I enjoy books with a historical setting is to learn about the times and the author surprised me with the amount of information in the story.
The only thing I would have liked more of is character development. In all honestly, I can’t complain too much since I have not read the first two books. I suspect had I read them, I would not be mentioning it. Therefore, feel free to take this comment with a grain of salt.
In a nutshell, this is a well written and researched historical book. I recommend this book for people who like mysteries with a historical setting.
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
June 13, 2023
Pinkerton Agent Abigail MacKay’s spoiled sister, Madeleine, has run away from the family Brooklyn home to marry a dangerous suitor.
Scientist David Bartholomew’s previous wives have all died in mysterious circumstances, leaving him a great deal of money each time. Each marriage is in a different city, and he uses a different name – but the outcome is the same. This fact is known to Abigail, but not to Madeleine. The murderer is getting away with it because no doctor can find traces of foul play. How will she find Maddy and have David jailed for his crimes – and can she do it before it is too late?
Fate is on her side when Abigail learns Madeleine travelled on a train that The Innocents recently held up – they were the last ones to see her before she disappeared. Abigail must venture into their hideout at Ghost Canyon to speak with them and ask for their help. The unlikely trio work together once more for a common cause, all determined to discover how he does it and to stop David from killing again. Abigail must rescue her sister no matter what, she has already lost too many members of her family.
Sadly there are some noticeable editing issues which can distract the reader but these can easily be addressed by the Author. Overall, another great book in the series by C A Asbrey. I look forward to the next instalment!
I award 4 stars.
Scientist David Bartholomew’s previous wives have all died in mysterious circumstances, leaving him a great deal of money each time. Each marriage is in a different city, and he uses a different name – but the outcome is the same. This fact is known to Abigail, but not to Madeleine. The murderer is getting away with it because no doctor can find traces of foul play. How will she find Maddy and have David jailed for his crimes – and can she do it before it is too late?
Fate is on her side when Abigail learns Madeleine travelled on a train that The Innocents recently held up – they were the last ones to see her before she disappeared. Abigail must venture into their hideout at Ghost Canyon to speak with them and ask for their help. The unlikely trio work together once more for a common cause, all determined to discover how he does it and to stop David from killing again. Abigail must rescue her sister no matter what, she has already lost too many members of her family.
Sadly there are some noticeable editing issues which can distract the reader but these can easily be addressed by the Author. Overall, another great book in the series by C A Asbrey. I look forward to the next instalment!
I award 4 stars.
November 3, 2019
Abi and Nat feel deeply for each other but her position on criminals keeps them apart. But, when Abi's sister, Madeleine, runs away again, she finds herself needing to seek Nat out. He is the last person she knows has seen her sister, as she saw that his gang robbed the train Madeleine was on. Madeleine is of age, but Abi is pretty sure the man she has run away with plans to marry her then kill her to get her trust fund, he has done it before. Nat and Abi's relationship heats up when she goes to his gang's winter hideout. Abi, Jake and Nat find themselves mixing with the law in all kinds of unexpected ways as they try to figure out how Madeleine's new husband is killing his wives before she becomes his next victim. If that isn't enough to deal with, they also find out that "Smitty" the fugitive who tried to set up the Innocents on a murder charge and is in the area.
This series is fun and well written!
This series is fun and well written!
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