Murder at the Ferry Building: An Edie Gibson Historical Mystery, Book 1

by Kate Hopkins Joyce

All Edie Gibson wants is to escape from an arranged engagement and have a wild time before the expectations of upper-class society force her to settle down. But when a new friend faces a date with the hangman for a murder she didn’t commit, Edie has to get tough and get smart—fast.
Follow Edie’s cross-country dash for freedom and her relentless quest for justice in a new city. From elegant high society balls atop Nob Hill to encounters with the dregs of life in seedy waterfront dives, Edie proves there’s a steel-trap mind and heart of gold under that fluffy hair and feathered hat.
Brimming with historical detail, real-life characters and long-lost landmarks, That Gibson Girl brings to life an all-but-forgotten era of innovation and optimism. As a city rises from the ashes on the eve of the fabled Panama-Pacific International Exposition, one plucky young woman triumphs over danger, scandal and corruption—always wearing the perfect outfit.
It’s 1911. It’s San Francisco. And Edie Gibson is the new girl in town!

248 pages, Paperback

Published January 11, 2026

Reviews

[Joyce Sherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a cozy mystery, and this one did not disappoint. The engaging main character, a New York socialite-by-compulsion turned San Franciscan-by-choice, is bright, clever, caring, and as plucky as you might hope. While the mystery and its resolution were clever and satisfying, what sets this book apart is the wonderful detail and history of the city by the bay. Miss Joyce clearly knows and loves this city—that shows on every page—but it's her insights into the delicious post-earthquake times (and shenanigans) that truly make the book a delight.

[Angela Verry · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚🔍 Book Review: Murder at the Ferry Building 🔍📚

What an amazing gem I discovered at the Sacramento Book Festival! ✨

I absolutely loved this historical murder mystery. The story had all the things I enjoy—intrigue, suspense, and a strong female lead who was intelligent, capable, and always thinking one step ahead. 💪🕵️‍♀️

The setting brought the mystery to life, and I found myself completely invested in uncovering the truth alongside the characters. Every clue kept me turning the pages! 📖

If you enjoy historical mysteries with a clever heroine and plenty of twists, this one is worth picking up. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for Book 2! 👀📚💕

[Christy J Kendall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had so much fun reading this book - Edie Gibson is a delightful and resourceful protagonist, and the settings are fantastic. I look forward to another in this series.