Murder at the Mortuary

Ginger Gold Mystery #5

by Lee Strauss

Unregistered corpses are showing up amongst the cadavers in the mortuary of the London School of Medicine for Women. Unnatural deaths. Murders.

The first known victim is recognized by Haley Higgins, a third-year pathology student. War widow fashionista, Ginger Gold, feels a responsibility for the man’s death and is determined to find his killer. Her pursuit takes her into the dangerous realm of the famous Italian gangster, Charles “Derby” Sabini.

With the help of Haley and the handsome Chief Inspector Reed—an uneasy alliance—Ginger investigates shady dealings at the docks and at the racehorse stables. What does one have to do with the other, and how are they connected to the bodies piling up at the mortuary?

Someone is working on the inside at the school and Ginger has to find out who, before she, or someone she loves, ends up lifeless on a ceramic mortuary slab.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Audiobook, Fiction, Historical, Historical Mystery

266 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2018

About the author

For fans of Golden Age who-dun-its ~ from a USA TODAY Bestselling author!

You'll adore Lady Gold from the acclaimed Ginger Gold Mysteries series, and the spin of series, Higgins & Hawke.

Look for the connected 1950s era Rosa Reed Mysteries.

NEW ~ The Velvet Spy ~ The Wartime Journal of Ginger Gold

For more info visit: leestraussbooks.com

Reviews

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Pathology Student Hailey Higgins discovers an unregistered body at the London School of Medicine for Women's mortuary, she tells her friend Ginger Gold. Ginger had been searching for actor Angus Green ever since her sister-in-law said he disappeared. Now his body is laying in the mortuary, a bullet hole in his head. Ginger has been hired by Green's family to find out how Green's body ended up in the mortuary without paperwork. When another unregistered body is found in the mortuary, Chief Inspector Basil Reed starts working the case. Ginger has not seen him since his estranged wife returned and he decided to give his marriage another try. Things between them are strained as they investigate the case.

This is the fifth book in the Ginger Gold mystery series. This cozy mystery series seems to be getting stronger with each book. This time we know there has to be someone inside the school how is helping the murderer dispose of bodies. There are several suspects inside and outside of the school. My only problem with this story was Ginger's TSTL behavior near the end of the book. I hope that doesn't happen again. My rating: 4 Stars.

[Mara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'd been reading quite a few Christmas themed books and wanted a change so I decided to see what Ginger Gold was up to since I'm way behind in her adventures. What a better place to hide the body from a murder than in the mortuary? But it turns out it isn't just a body, several of them start appearing in the mortuary without any documents.

This is Ginger's first paid job as an investigator, and she and Chief Inspector Basil Reed are no longer working together--his wife has come back and he's giving his marriage another try. Her sister-in-law, Felicia is upset with Ginger and partially blames her for the death of her fellow actor Angus Green. Ginger wants to solve his murder. Her investigation leads her down to the docks and the racehorse stables. Are these two seemingly unrelated places connected? If so, how? Ginger ends up working with Basil despite the change in their friendship status.

I enjoyed this mystery and didn't figure out who was helping to get the bodies into the mortuary. I was happy to see Ginger and Basil working together but was thrown by the relationship cliffhanger at the end of the book. I'll have to hurry and read the next book in the series to see what happens.

Everyone makes an appearance in the story--Haley, Ambrosia, Felicia, Pippins, Basil, and of course Boss. I love Ginger's generous heart and how she reaches out to those in need like Matilda and Scout, although I do wish Ambrosia would stop acting so high and mighty. She gets on my nerves, but Ginger handles Ambrosia's comments far better than I would be able to.

I love all the descriptions of Ginger's clothes and usually end up looking at the author's Pinterest board about Ginger's clothes. This is a great addition to the Ginger Gold Mystery series.

[QNPoohBear · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ginger Gold has another mystery to solve and it may be all her fault. Her sister-in-law's fellow actor, and possible boyfriend, Angus Green has turned up dead at the mortuary where Haley works. His death was not from natural causes and Ginger is determined to find out who killed the man. Her quest for information points in the direction of the Italian mafia. When unregistered bodies start turning up at the mortuary, Haley is concerned and perplexed, especially when the bodies bear traces of evidence found on Angus Green. Could the mafia be behind this scheme? Someone inside the hospital must be working with them to bring in the bodies and falsify the papers. Who could it be? Ginger is especially concerned as her investigation leads her to her young friend Scout's cousin Marvin. She worries the boy is up to no good and in over his head. With the help of Inspector Basil Reed, Ginger and Haley are determined to solve the mystery.

I didn't enjoy this mystery was much as the previous one, despite the cliffhanger. While I never guessed who the insider was, I really really didn't like the ties to the Italian mafia. Really? Do we have to? I'd expect that of Prohibition era New York or Boston but I'm sure London has plenty of other criminals. The criminal activity was kind of lame but spawned a lot of gruesome murders. I'm squeamish so I didn't like the graphic details about blood types, post-mortem exams and dead bodies. Ugh! This is a cozy mystery not a crime novel. The one other thing I absolutely did not appreciate in this novel was the debate over women's health care. While it was a topic of discussion and is still very much an important topic, and I am a full advocate for women's health care and access to health care for the underprivileged, it seems out of character for Felicia to even know about such things. I read the newspaper, I discuss things with my friends and family. I don't want to read about news in novels. The eugenics aspect of it may be new to some people but I was also aware of that and didn't necessarily want the characters I like to be on the side of birth control for controlling the undesirable population.

Ginger gets very nosy here and finds herself in lots of trouble. I didn't like the way she decided to become a private investigator and basically thumb her nose at Basil because he's back with his wife. He made it clear he was still in love with Emelia and she's still mourning Daniel so grow up. It stands to reason that Basil would uncover the same information Ginger does and when dealing with dangerous criminals like the mafia, she should leave the detecting to the trained professional. There are some heart stopping moments here! Also Ginger makes a decision that affects everyone in the household without consulting anyone. Yes it's her house, her money but she's putting everyone at a great inconvenience. Plus, how does she know that person is not the mole? I do wish she would stop trying to save EVERYONE! You just can't. As much as you want to, it's not possible. She's already doing a great deal of good for Scout.

New characters include Dr. Sean Brennan, an instructor at the medical college. He has an eye for the ladies and pais fulsome, if not sincere, compliments. I found him sleazy and inappropriate and thought Ginger was close to shooting him. I would have been tempted. I was hoping he was a murderer or an accessory to murder. Is he? Other students in Haley's pathology class include Florence Jennings, a no-nonsense type. She's a stereotype screaming SPINSTER and BLUESTOCKING! I don't think Dowager Lady Gold would like her. Another serious student is Agatha MacPherson, a middle-aged woman. Sadly she doesn't have any sort of backstory and I am very curious about her. Pretty Matilda Hanson looks like a movie star. Is she sincere in her studies or aiming to catch a husband? She has the opportunity to remove the paperwork on the bodies in the mortuary. Could she be the one Ginger and Basil are looking for? Does a pretty face hide a more devious mind? I have conflicted feelings about her. She made a horrible mistake and that leads to lies and deceit. Mr. Morgan, the medical college janitor, is a cranky sort of fellow. He has access to the mortuary when no one else is there. He could easily be the villain. Dr. Allan Watts is the kindly pathologist who allowed Haley to be his protégée. He is going through a tough time and I feel so bad for him.

The infamous Dr. Marie Stopes appears as a character in this novel. She seems to be the Margaret Sanger of Britain. While her motives are questionable, she did a great service to the women of Britain in the 20s. I didn't really care for her personality but I find doctors are pretty no-nonsense.

The mafia figures are the real villains. Charles Sabini is the mob boss with a whole lot of "business" interests. He allows his tool, Lorenzo "Bugs" Bugini, to do all the dirty work. I just can't believe the lack of conscience on that guy. Fred, the lookout, may not know exactly what is happening but he works for the mob for sure. Jane Ellery is a young woman who in other circumstances may be friends with Ginger and Haley. She is passionate about horses but unfortunately is somehow connected to the illegal mafia activity-whatever it is.

Felicia plays a larger role in this story. She's still super bratty and immature. I would have expected her to learn from her past experiences. I don't know how Ginger puts up with her. Grandmother Gold is as starchy as ever and doesn't know what to do with Felicia. Felicia is pretty awful to her grandmother. I loved Boss, the Boston Terrier, in this novel. He's so sweet! Ginger is finally taking more responsibility for her beloved companion. Oliver is also a kind, sweet friend to Ginger. She would not make a good vicar's wife, however. Little Scout, Ginger's friend from the S.S. Rosa, reappears in this story. My heart goes out to him.

I'm going to skip the next novel because I really don't like how the author is choosing to resolve the relationship problem between Ginger and Basil. I'm still dying to know more about Ginger's wartime service. I guess I have to be patient and wait for her journal entries to appear online.

[Eric · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the fifth instalment of the Ginger Gold series and it is, to me, the most enjoyable so far. The historical setting is well-handled and the introduction of real characters such as Dr Marie Stopes and her second husband, and the mobster, Charles Sabini, is done quite naturally. There are a lot fewer fashion details, which I think is an improvement, and more concentration on character development and plot.

Corpses without the required documentation have turned up in the mortuary of the London Medical School for Women, where Ginger and Haley take classes. The investigation of this leads to the London Docklands and to racing stables. Drug dealing and race-fixing are involved.

Ginger’s relationship with Chief Inspector Basil Reed goes through more twists and turns as she takes on her first paid job as a private investigator. Her life is again in danger as the case reaches its dramatic end.

3.5*

Thank you to the author for the ARC.

[Kelly Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this installment of the wonderful Ginger Gold mystery series.
Once again Lee Strauss weaves an authentic historical tapestry of rich characters, societal drama and mysterious intrigue. The world of 1920's London, England comes alive with her rich descriptions of the people and the places they frequent, if not habitually, then as new settings for this particular volume. The choice of a mortuary as a premier setting is both creepy and familiar, as we have seen it on and off as Haley attends school in the previous books.
Things get more dangerous and dramatic for Ginger as the mob enters the picture and she takes her first professional investigation, but she handles it with her usual aplomb. Her generous nature shines through in this book as well, and her personal life takes some new turns.
This page turner is well written, impeccably researched and a must read!

[Lee Strauss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kapital 1

Es war unklar, wie lange Angus Green schon tot war.

Ginger Gold studierte die Obduktionsfotos, die auf ihrem Schreibtisch lagen. Mr. Green, ein junger Mann aus privilegierten Verhältnissen, war unerwartet und plötzlich verstorben. Felicia, Gingers Schwägerin, hatte den jungen Mann kennen gelernt, als er in demselben Theaterstück mitspielte. Felicia war es, die Ginger gebeten hatte, den Vermisstenfall zu übernehmen - einen Fall, den sie nicht lösen konnte.

Ginger schaute sich im Arbeitszimmer ihres Vaters um, das nun ihr Büro war. Irgendwie bezweifelte sie, dass sie sich jemals daran gewöhnen würde, das Erbe ihres Vaters ihr Eigen zu nennen. Als sie in Daddys übergroßem Stuhl saß, fühlte sie sich wieder wie ein kleines Mädchen, überwältigt von seiner Größe und den Erinnerungen, die der Schreibtischstuhl barg. Sie konnte sich vorstellen, wie ihr Vater sich zurücklehnte, seine Lederschuhe auf den Schreibtisch legte und seine Hände auf seiner Brust verschränkte, während er über die tiefen Geheimnisse des Lebens nachdachte.

Ginger lenkte ihre Gedanken wieder auf das Geheimnis, das vor ihr lag. Sie gab nicht vor, eine Privatdetektivin zu sein - keinenfalls offiziell. Es war nur etwas, das sie oft und gerne tat - vielleicht ein Überbleibsel ihrer Arbeit für den Geheimdienst während des Ersten Weltkrieges. Manche Dinge konnte man sich nur schwer wieder abgewöhnen.

Der Gedanke an Felicia schien die Anwesenheit der jüngeren Frau heraufzubeschwören, denn sie schlenderte uneingeladen in Gingers Arbeitszimmer und setzte sich auf einen leeren Stuhl vor dem Schreibtisch. Boss, Gingers schwarz-weiß gefleckter Boston-Terrier, hob den Kopf von seinem Platz neben dem Kamin, um sie zu begrüßen.

Felicias dunkles Haar, das mit zurückgesteckten Fransen frisiert war, müsste gewaschen werden. Ihre normalerweise rosige, jugendliche Haut wirkte gezeichnet, und unter ihren Augen lagen dicke Schatten. „Immer noch nichts?" Ohne zu lächeln, verschränkte Felicia ihre Arme und Beine und starrte Ginger an.

Ginger seufzte. „Manche Fälle brauchen länger, um gelöst zu werden als andere."

„Und manche werden überhaupt nicht gelöst", schimpfte Felicia.

„Das ist leider richtig."

Eine steife Stille schied sie voneinander wie ein Stacheldrahtzaun.

„Es tut mir leid, dass ich dich nicht ernst genommen habe, als du das erste Mal zu mir kamst", kam Ginger ihr entgegen.

„Du hättest nicht aufhören sollen, nach ihm zu suchen."

Ginger schluckte einen dicken Kloß hinunter. Felicia gab ihr die Schuld - was Ginger für fair hielt. Schließlich gab sich Ginger auch selbst die Schuld. Wenn sie nicht von einem anderen Fall besessen gewesen wäre, wäre Angus Green vielleicht noch am Leben.

„Ich weiß, dass du wütend auf mich bist", sagte Ginger. „Obwohl Haley sagt, dass es durchaus möglich ist, dass Angus getötet wurde, bevor du überhaupt erfahren hast, dass er vermisst wird."

Haley Higgins, eine gute Freundin und Dauergast in Gingers Haus, dem Hartigan House, war Studentin der forensischen Pathologie an der medizinischen Fakultät. Sie hatte Ginger Kopien der Fotos von Mr. Greens Leiche zur Verfügung gestellt, die nun auf dem Schreibtisch verstreut lagen.

„Natürlich würde sie das sagen", antwortete Felicia knapp. „Sie ist deine Freundin. Sie verteidigt dich." Ohne Ginger eine Chance zur Antwort zu geben, sprang Felicia auf und stürmte aus dem Arbeitszimmer. Boss wimmerte erschrocken.

Ginger fuhr sich mit langen manikürten Fingern durch ihren rothaarigen Bob und atmete ein. Sie hatte Angus Green nicht das Leben gerettet, aber sie konnte seinen Mörder vor Gericht bringen. Sie musste seinen Mörder zur Rechenschaft ziehen. Sie starrte wieder auf die Fotos.

Angus Green auf dem Theaterplakat: lebendig, jung und attraktiv.

Angus Green in der Leichenhalle, flach auf einer Keramikplatte liegend, geisterhaft weiß mit einer tiefroten Schusswunde in der Mitte seiner sonst makellosen Stirn. Obwohl das Foto schwarz-weiß war, erkannte Ginger die Färbung der Leiche - sie hatte sie kurz nach ihrer Entdeckung selbst gesehen.

London im Jahr 1924 war nicht der Wilde Westen. Gewöhnliche Bürger besaßen keine Waffe. Ginger, eine Ausnahme von dieser Regel, fühlte sich sicher, wenn ihre kleine, silberne Remington Derringer bei sich trug - übrigens ein Geschenk ihres verstorbenen Mannes.

Ohne die Kugel, die Mr. Green tötete, oder ihre Hülle war es unmöglich festzustellen, welcher Pistolentyp bei der Hinrichtung verwendet worden war. Die Kopie des Obduktionsberichts, unterzeichnet von Dr. Manu Gupta, Arzt im Praktikum in der forensischen Pathologie, war durch die häufige Handhabung stark abgenutzt. Ginger las ihn noch einmal durch.

Der Bericht von Dr. Gupta enthielt genaue Messungen und Gewichte aller Organe. Trotz des Durchschlags der Kugel zwischen dem rechten und linken Hirnlappen und einer entsprechenden Austrittswunde an der Rückseite von Mr. Greens Schädel hatte Angus Green ein gesundes Herz, gesunde Lungen, Nieren und Milz. Auch die Eingeweide und die unteren Bauchregionen waren durchschnittlich gewachsen. Da die Leiche bereits gewaschen und einbalsamiert worden war, ehe sie diese gefunden hatte, gab es keine Rückstände von Schießpulver, obwohl der Umriss der Wunde auf eine nahe Entfernung hindeutete.

Schürfwunden am Handgelenk deuteten darauf hin, dass Angus Green die Hände gefesselt worden waren. Haley, der Dr. Gupta assistiert hatte, hatte Spuren von dunkler Erde unter den Fingernägeln gefunden. Seltsam, denn Angus Green war der vornehme Typus eines Gentlemans, der seine Nägel sauber und ordentlich gepflegt hielt.

Die Laborberichte für die Bodenprobe waren noch nicht eingetroffen, aber die toxikologischen Berichte bestätigten das Vorhandensein von Kokain im Blut von Mr. Green. Es schien, als ob Angus Greens Art, sich zu amüsieren, weit überschritten worden war. Ginger lehnte sich zurück, und der alte Stuhl gab fast unter ihr nach.

„Verfluchter Stuhl!" Ginger fasste sich ans Herz. „Ich hätte fast einen Herzinfarkt bekommen."

Boss kläffte und rannte quer durch den Raum, als er den Kummer seines Frauchens hörte.

"Oh, Bossy." Ginger schloss ihn in ihre Arme. "Mir geht's gut, aber ich weiß deine Tapferkeittrotzdem zu schätzen."

Das Telefon - neu installiert, schwarz mit modernem quadratischen Design - klingelte in tiefen, sich wiederholenden Tönen. Ginger setzte Boss auf dem Boden ab und schob den unmöglichen Stuhl zur Seite.

Ginger nahm den Anruf an: „Mallowan 1355".

„Lady Gold?" Der Anrufer war weiblich und hatte einen französischen Akzent.

„Guten Tag, Madame Roux. Ist alles in Ordnung?" Madame Roux leitete Gingers Kleiderfachgeschäft in der Regent Street, Feathers & Flair.

„Oui, oui. Ich rufe nur an, um Ihnen mitzuteilen, dass die Lieferung von Stoffen aus Indien eingetroffen ist. Soll ich Emma bitten, sie zu sortieren, oder möchten Sie sie erst ansehen?"

Emma Miller war Gingers hauseigene Designerin, und Ginger hatte volles Vertrauen in sie. „Bestelle Emma, sie soll weitermachen."

„Das wird sie freuen, Madam. Sie kann es kaum erwarten, mit dem Nähen anzufangen."

Nachdem sie sich verabschiedet hatte, warf Ginger noch einmal einen langen Blick auf die Fotos auf dem Schreibtisch, bevor sie sich auf den Gang begab und nach ihrem langjährigen Butler rief. "Pippins?"

Die Fähigkeit von Clive Pippins, auf Zuruf zu erscheinen, hat Ginger immer wieder verblüfft. Der freundliche Mann, ein Siebzigjähriger mit hängenden Schultern und durchscheinender Haut, verfügte über erstaunlich viel Energie und Lebensfreude. Seine Augen blieben klar und so blau wie Kornblumen. Sie funkelten erfreut, als sein Blick Ginger erfasste.

"Madam?"

"Pips, tu mir einen großen Gefallen und kaufe bitte einen neuen Bürostuhl für mich. Vaters alter Stuhl hat mich fast umgehauen."

"Gewiss, Madame. Gibt es sonst noch etwas?"

"Ja. Sag Clement, er soll sich bereit machen, mich zur medizinischen Fakultät zu fahren. Ich werde in dreißig Minuten abfahrbereit sein. Und sag Lizzie, dass sie auf Boss aufpassen soll." Lizzie war Gingers junges Dienstmädchen und eine begeisterte Hüterin des kleinen Boston-Terriers.

Ginger sah auf die Uhr. Sie musste sich beeilen, wenn sie nicht zu spät zu der Vorlesung über Spurensicherung kommen wollte. Sie hatte Haley schon lange darum beneidet, dass sie sich weiterbilden konnte - eine Möglichkeit, die sich für Ginger mit ihrer Heirat erübrigt hatte -, aber die Verwaltung sah kein Problem darin, dass sie an dem Kurs teilnahm, vor allem, nachdem sie ein finanzieller Gönner der Einrichtung geworden war. Tatsächlich hatte Ginger eine mit Spannung erwartete Wohltätigkeitsgala für die Schule organisiert, die am Wochenende stattfinden sollte.


Der Unterricht zum Thema Spurensicherung fand in einem mittelgroßen Raum mit weißen Wänden und Holzfußboden statt. In der Mitte befand sich ein Eichentisch mit zwölf Plätzen. Ein Drittel der Plätze war besetzt, da sich laut Haley nur eine Handvoll der Oberstufenschüler für die forensische Pathologie als Berufswahl interessierte. Die meisten Studierenden interessierten sich für die Lebenden und wie man sie am Leben erhalten konnte. Wie Haley fand auch Ginger die forensische Wissenschaft ungeheuer spannend. Sie entdeckte Haley und schlüpfte auf den freien Platz neben ihr.

„Du hast es geschafft", sagte Haley mit ihrem amerikanischen Akzent.

„Clement ist gefahren", antwortete Ginger zur Erklärung. Sie fand, dass der Mann mittleren Alters ein quälend langsamer und vorsichtiger Fahrer war, was zweifellos daran lag, dass er keine Erfahrung mit dem Fahren in der Stadt hatte. Er hatte gerade erst begonnen, sich mit Gingers altem Daimler von 1913 vertraut zu machen, bevor er bei einem Autounfall beschädigt wurde. Von dem schüchternen Mann konnte sie nicht allzu viel erwarten. Von Beruf Gärtner, war er mit Gingers verschwiegerten Großmutter gekommen, als sie einzog.

Ginger hatte erwartet, dass Dr. Watts - der leitende Pathologe und Verwalter des Colleges - die Klasse unterrichten würde, aber anstatt des stämmigen, weißhaarigen Mannes schritt ein jüngerer und schlankerer Herr selbstbewusst nach vorne in die Nähe des Tischendes.

„Guten Tag", sagte der Mann mit einem starken irischen Akzent. „Für diejenigen unter Ihnen, die mich nicht kennen, ich bin Dr. Sean Brennan.  Da Sie jetzt meinen Namen kennen und ich noch nicht das gleiche Privileg hatte, stellen Sie sich bitte vor."

Es folgten höfliche Vorstellungsgespräche:

„Florence Jennings." Eine  geradlinig wirkende Frau in einem schlichten Tageskleid und einer Bügelbrille sprach ihren eigenen Namen leise aus.

„Matilda Hanson", sagte ein hübsches Mädchen mit einem herzförmigen Gesicht und schmollenden Clara-Bow-Lippen. Tatsächlich ähnelte sie der berühmten Hollywood-Schauspielerin mit ihren kurzen brünetten Locken und ihren dunklen, seelenvollen Augen. Auf den ersten Blick eine ungewöhnliche Kandidatin für die Pathologie, wenn man diese nur nach dem Aussehen urteilen würde

Dann sagte eine Frau mittleren Alters mit strengem Blick: „Agatha McPherson".

„Haley Higgins".

„Lady Georgia Gold".

Wie von Gingers Titel aufgeschreckt, blinzelte Dr. Brennan und legte den Kopf leicht schief.

Hatte er irgendwie von ihr gehört? fragte sich Ginger.

„Sehr gut", sagte er und lächelte. „Dann wollen wir mal loslegen. Ich bin begeistert von den Fortschritten in der modernen forensischen Wissenschaft, die sowohl für Mediziner als auch für Kriminalbeamte von großem Nutzen sind. Die jüngsten Fortschritte bei der Blutgruppenbestimmung helfen nicht nur den Ärzten bei der richtigen Diagnose und Behandlung, sondern auch unseren Freunden bei Scotland Yard, die mit Hilfe der Blutanalyse Verbrechen aufklären können. Als forensische Pathologen werden Sie eng mit der Polizei zusammenarbeiten. Heute werden wir über Spuren sprechen und darüber, wie die kleinste Sache ein großer Hinweis sein kann."

Ginger lehnte sich zu Haley und flüsterte: „Wo ist Dr. Watts?"

Haley flüsterte zurück: „Seine Frau ist sehr krank. Er hat sich kürzlich Urlaub genommen, um bei ihr zu sein."

„Es tut mir leid, das zu hören." Ginger mochte den älteren Mann, fast so sehr wie Haley selbst. Dr. Watts war ein hochgeschätzter forensischer Pathologe und ein ausgezeichneter Mentor für Haley.

Ginger beobachtete Dr. Watts' Nachfolger mit Interesse. Er trug einen grauen Anzug aus Wolle und Kaschmir mit einer Hose mit Manschettenbund. Sein blondes, gewelltes Haar, das an der Seite gescheitelt war, hatte er mit Haaröl hinter den kleinen Ohren zurückgestrichen. Der Enthusiasmus in seinen Augen verriet seine Vorliebe zum Unterrichten, und die Falten in seinem Gesicht bewiesen, dass er oft lächelte.

„Die forensische Wissenschaft ist ein aufstrebendes Gebiet, und die Auswirkungen auf die Aufdeckung und Lösung von Verbrechen sind aufregend", sagte Dr. Brennan. „Stellen Sie sich vor, ein einfacher Fingerabdruck führt zu einer Verurteilung. Unter den gleichen Umständen wäre der Täter früher mit einem Mord davongekommen."

Dr. Brennan griff in die Tasche seiner Weste und holte ein Vergrößerungsglas heraus. „Unser fiktiver Freund, Sherlock Holmes, ist nie ohne eine solche aus dem Haus gegangen." Er präsentierte sie wie eine Fahne. „Und das sollten Sie auch nicht. Bitte greifen Sie zu."

Ginger griff in ihre Handtasche und holte eine neue Lupe aus dem schützenden Samtbeutel. Sie konnte nicht glauben, dass sie sich nicht schon früher eine besorgt hatte.

Dr. Brennan hielt einen Zeigefinger in die Luft. „Drehen Sie sich zu der Person neben Ihnen und vergleichen Sie Ihre Fingerabdrücke. Welches Muster sehen Sie? Bögen? Kringel? Schleifen?"

„Ich weiß schon, was meine sind", sagte Ginger. „Und du?"

Haley spottete. „Natürlich. Meine Grate bilden Bögen."

Ginger lachte. „Und meine: Wirbel."

Ginger bot ihre Handfläche an, und Haley griff nach Gingers Fingern und untersuchte jeden einzelnen.

„Du hast recht", sagte Haley und bot ihre Fingerspitzen zur Untersuchung durch Ginger an.

Ginger studierte Haleys Rillen unter ihrer Lupe. „Ich finde es erstaunlich", sagte sie, „dass trotz der nur drei Grundmuster jeder einzelne Fingerabdruck völlig einzigartig für seinen Eigentümer ist."

Haley stimmte zu. „Das ist sehr bedauerlich für die Kriminellen um uns herum."

Als die Gruppe die Aufgabe erfüllt hatte, sagte Dr. Brennan: „Schauen Sie sich nun jetzt den Stoff Ihres Gehrocks an. Untersuchen Sie jede Faser und wählen Sie eine bestimmte aus. Welche Farbe hat sie? Ist sie hell und neu oder verblasst und abgenutzt? Ist die Textur glatt oder rau? Vielleicht gibt es einen kleinen Fleck - woher kommt der? Tee? Wein? Blut?“

Um sich unter die Studierenden zu mischen, entschied sich Ginger für ein zartrosa Coco Chanel mit einem Wollkleid mit fallender Taille, das mit Borten und Knöpfen aus demselben Stoff verziert war. Dazu trug sie einen weißen Cloche-Hut mit schwarzen Bändern, fleischfarbene Seidenstrümpfe und schwarze Mary-Jane-Lederschuhe. Unter dem Vergrößerungsglas sahen die Wollfäden wie Regenwürmer aus.

„Ich habe heute Morgen Kaffee auf meinem Ärmel verschüttet", sagte Haley und betrachtete den Fleck auf ihrer Viskosebluse mit der Lupe. „Obwohl ich dachte, ich hätte ihn gründlich mit Wasser gereinigt, kann ich unter der Lupe noch Spuren davon sehen.“

„Lass mich mal sehen", sagte Ginger, und Haley streckte ihr den Arm entgegen. Ginger ließ ihr eigenes Lupenglas über den Bereich schweben. „Interessant. Was einst verborgen war, ist nun enthüllt worden."

[Kandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent book in this series. So descriptive. I can clearly see the fashion and way of life in this time period. Ginger Gold has her work cut out for her when murdered victims show up mysteriously in the morgue. I love this series and think this is my favorite book in this series so far. Thanks Lee Strauss for the ARC.

[Louisa Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m beginning to get quite entranced with the Lady Gold series. This was a more somber story in the series—-perhaps because drug trafficking is still prevalent today.

[Bev · Rating 4 out of 5]

The previous book left us with a cliffhanger. Ginger Gold had been investigating two mysteries, one of which involved a missing young actor. Throughout the story, she had no luck tracing the man and then the book ends with Agnes Green's body showing up unannounced at the morgue (no paperwork, etc) among a group of other cadavers. Before long more unregistered bodies have appeared and Ginger and Inspector reed find themselves investigating a series of murders that appear to be work of the Italian mafia--a group that has recently gotten a foothold in England. There are indications of cocaine smuggling and horse doping in addition to murder, but finding the evidence to tie the deaths to Charles Sabini, horse racing enthusiast and Italian mob leader is difficult. They have little luck identifying the middle man (or woman) at the morgue who has been forging the papers for the extra corpses.

This is Ginger's first paid job as an investigator. Angus Green's father and brother hire her to find out what really happed to Angus and help the police bring the culprit to justice. She also feels somewhat responsible because her sister-in-law had asked her to find the man and she had failed. Things get very dangerous--not only for Ginger but for both Hayley, her friend who is studying to be a forensic doctor, and for Inspector Reed as well. And they will find that the mob has a reach that touches some who are very close indeed.

Another good historical mystery. This one is tinged with a bit more danger and action than previous installments. But Strauss continues her efforts to fairly clue her mysteries and create a more classic detective story. There were parts that I figured out fairly easily, but there was enough left to make the mystery intriguing. I thought the design to use the morgue to hide victims in plain sight (if you will) was clever. Not quite up to the standard of the previous story, but still very good. ★★★ and 1/2.

First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting portions of review. Thank you.

[Paraphrodite · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars.

Unregistered dead people are turning up at Haley's university mortuary and one of them just happened to be the man Ginger's sister-in-law asked her to find in the last book.

Basil and Scotland Yard believe it's the Italian Mob that's infiltrated the London Docks and killing people who got in their way. Ginger is warned not to get involved but is hired by the dead man's father as a private investigator to find out what happened.

Effectively, this becomes Ginger's first case as a PI. But the case gets complicated with the involvement of the orphaned cousins Scout and Marvin, the latter working as a laborer at the docks. I think this one is not so much about finding the killer but whether Basil and Scotland Yard will be able to gather evidence for an arrest.

With Basil's wife back in the picture, we also see Ginger looking at other potential suitors. There's a vicar and also a doctor who introduces Ginger to Italian food. I was amazed that Ginger hasn't had spaghetti before though, given her time in Europe?

I'm not quite satisfied with the conclusion of this one. But there's quite a bit of development on Ginger's home front that I'm interested to see what will happen next.

[Chaitra · Rating 3 out of 5]

The mystery comes together rather haphazardly - there's really no reason to suppose the murder victim had anything to do with the Italian mafia, except Ginger hears about it randomly and just as randomly decides to associate the actor guy with it. And it turns out that it's all connected. I like Ginger, she's grown on me. I don't particularly like the people she's surrounded by, except maybe Haley and the street urchins she befriends - but I can tolerate them reasonably well, including Basil, the toad who's taking some steps to de-toadifying himself. But I did wish the mystery wasn't so slapdash as all that.

[Veronica Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Ginger Gold is back on the trail, hunting for the person responsible for the murder of her sister-in-law's friend. When unregistered bodies start piling up at the mortuary, Ginger and her pre-med friend Haley know something is horribly wrong.

An acquaintance introduces Ginger to the dark operations within the mob world. As her investigations unfold, danger lurks at every turn. Will her sleuthing stints with Scotland Yard's Chief Inspector Basil Reed to find out who's behind the carnage rekindle their friendship, or bring it to a devastating end?

Author Strauss weaves yet another clever whodunnit in the Ginger Gold Mystery collection. I enjoy the characters and settings and am a big fan of this cozy series. A fine read for cozy mystery fans!

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Back to this favorite series and the London of the golden age. This series has entertaining characters and interesting mysteries. Very enjoyable!

[SAFEAZ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m going to talk about the murder at the mortuary. This books is definitely amazing.

[Lee Strauss]

CHAPTER ONE

It was unclear how long Angus Green had been dead.

Ginger Gold studied the postmortem photos laid out on the top of her desk. Before his untimely death, Mr. Green had been a young man with a privileged upbringing. Felicia, Ginger’s sister-in-law, had met the chap while acting in the same stage play. It was Felicia who’d begged her to take on the missing person’s case. Ginger had agreed and failed.
Ginger glanced around her father’s study. Her study now. Somehow, Ginger doubted she’d ever get used to calling her father’s things her own. Like the furniture. She felt like a little girl sitting in Daddy’s huge chair, its springs worn by the weight of her father as he leaned back, propped his leather shoes up on the desktop, and tented his fingers on his chest. Like this, he pondered the deep mysteries of life.

Ginger brought her thoughts back to the mystery in front of her. Not that Ginger professed to be a private investigator, not officially at any rate. It was just something she often found herself doing—perhaps a residue from the secret service work she had done during the Great War. Some things are hard to unlearn.

Thinking about Felicia seemed to summon the younger woman’s presence because she sauntered into Ginger’s study uninvited and possessed an empty chair in front of the desk. Boss, Ginger’s black and white Boston terrier, lifted his head from his spot near the hearth to acknowledge her.
Felicia’s dark hair, shingled with the fringe pinned back, was in need of washing. Her normally rosy, youthful skin appeared drawn, and shadows were thick under her eyes. “Still nothing?” Unsmiling, Felicia crossed her arms and her legs and stared at Ginger.

Ginger sighed. “Some cases take longer to solve than others.”
“And some never get solved at all,” Felicia huffed.
“Unfortunately, that is correct.”
A stiff silence stretched between them like barbed-wire.
“I’m sorry I didn’t take you seriously when you first came to me,” Ginger offered.
“You shouldn’t have stopped looking for him.”
Ginger swallowed a thick lump. Felicia blamed her—which Ginger thought fair. After all, Ginger blamed herself too. Perhaps, if she hadn’t become obsessed with another case, Angus Green would still be alive.

“I know you’re angry with me,” Ginger said. “Though Haley says it’s quite possible that Angus was killed before you’d even learned he was missing.”
Haley Higgins, a dear friend and long-term guest at Ginger’s home, Hartigan House, was a student of forensic pathology at the medical school. She’d provided Ginger with copies of the photographs of Mr. Green’s body, now scattered over the top of the desk.
“Of course, she’d say that,” Felicia replied tersely. “She’s your friend. She’s defending you.”

Without giving Ginger a chance to respond, Felicia sprang to her feet and stormed out of the study. Boss whimpered.
Ginger ran long manicured fingers through her red bob and inhaled. She hadn’t saved Angus Green’s life, but she could bring his killer to justice. She must bring his killer to justice. She stared at the photos again.
Angus Green on the theatre poster: alive, young, and virile.
Angus Green in the mortuary, lying flat out on a ceramic slab, ghostly white with a deep-red gunshot wound in the centre of his unblemished forehead. Though the photo was black and white, Ginger knew about the colouring of the body—she’d seen it for herself shortly after it was discovered.

London in 1924 wasn’t the Wild West. Ordinary citizens didn’t own a gun. Ginger, an exception to that rule, found great comfort in carrying her small, silver Remington derringer—a gift from her late husband.
Without the bullet that killed Mr. Green or its shell, it was impossible to determine what type of pistol had been used to carry out the execution. The copy of the postmortem report signed by Dr. Manu Gupta, interning doctor of forensic pathology, was well worn from frequent handling. Ginger reread it.
Dr. Gupta’s report was thorough in its measurements and weights of all the organs. Despite the bullet’s passage between the right and left lobes of the brain, and a corresponding exit wound on the back of Mr. Green’s skull, Angus Green had a healthy heart, lungs, kidneys, and spleen. Intestines and lower abdominal regions were average as well. Because the body had already been washed and embalmed before discovery, there was no residue of gunpowder, though the impression of the wound pointed to close range.

Abrasions on the wrist indicated that Angus Green’s hands had been tied. Haley, who had assisted Dr. Gupta, had found trace amounts of dark soil under the fingernails. Peculiar since Angus Green had been the posh type of gentleman who kept his nails clean and neatly trimmed.
Lab reports had yet to come in for the soil sample, however, toxicology reports confirmed the presence of cocaine in Mr. Green’s blood. It appeared that Angus Green’s manner of amusement went beyond the stage. Ginger leaned back, and the old chair nearly gave way on her.

“Deuced chair!” Ginger grabbed her chest. “Nearly gave me a heart attack.”
Boss yipped and dashed across the room at the sound of his mistress’ distress.
“Oh, Bossy.” Ginger scooped him into her arms. “I’m all right, but I appreciate your valour all the same.”
The telephone—newly installed, black with a modern square design—rang in deep repetitive tones. Ginger placed Boss on the floor and pushed the offending chair aside.
Ginger answered, “Mallowan 1355.”
“Lady Gold?” The caller was female with a French accent.
“Hello, Madame Roux. Is everything all right?” Madame Roux managed Ginger’s Regent Street dress shop, Feathers & Flair.

“Oui, oui. I am only ringing to inform you that the shipment of fabric from India has arrived. Should I get Emma to sort it, or would you like to have a look at it first?”
Emma Miller was Ginger’s in-house designer, and Ginger had every confidence in her. “Tell Emma to go ahead.”
“She’ll be pleased, madam. She’s eager to start sewing.”
After saying goodbye, Ginger took another long look at the photos on the desk before heading to the passageway and calling for her longtime butler. “Pippins?”

The ability of Clive Pippins to materialise when beckoned never ceased to amaze Ginger. The kindly man, a septuagenarian with hunched shoulders and translucent skin, had a surprising amount of energy and enthusiasm for life. His eyes remained clear and as blue as cornflowers. They twinkled when his gaze landed on Ginger.

“Madam?”
“Pips, do me a terrific favour and shop for a new office chair for me, please. Father’s old chair practically sent me flying.”
“Certainly, madam. Is there anything else?”
“Yes. Ask Clement prepare to drive me to the medical school. I shall be ready to leave in thirty minutes. And let Lizzie know she’ll be looking after Boss.” Lizzie was Ginger’s young maid and an enthusiastic companion of the little Boston terrier.

Ginger checked the time. She had to hurry if she didn’t want to be late for the class on trace evidence. She had long since envied Haley for being able to continue her education—an option that had closed for Ginger when she got married—but the administration didn’t see a problem with her sitting in, especially once she’d become a financial benefactor of the institution. In fact, Ginger had organised a much-anticipated charity gala for the school that was to take place at the weekend.

The class on trace evidence was held in a medium-sized room with white walls and wooden floors. Situated in the middle was an oak table that sat twelve. A third of the seats were taken, since, according to Haley, only a handful of the senior students were interested in forensic pathology as a career choice. Most of the students were concerned about the living and how to keep them alive. Like Haley, Ginger found forensic science tremendously exciting. She spotted Haley and slipped into the empty seat beside her.

“You made it,” Haley said, her American accent coming through.
“Clement drove,” Ginger responded by way of explanation. She found the middle-aged man to be an excruciatingly slow and cautious driver, no doubt due to the fact he was inexperienced at driving in the city. He’d only just begun to get the hang of Ginger’s old 1913 Daimler before it was damaged in a motorcar crash. She couldn’t expect too much from the timid man. A gardener by vocation, he’d come with Ginger’s grandmother-in-law when she moved in.

Ginger had expected Dr. Watts—the chief pathologist and college administrator—to teach the class, but instead of the stocky, white-haired man, a younger and slimmer gentleman strode confidently to the front of the room near the end of the table.
“Good afternoon,” the man said with a strong Irish lilt. “For those of you who don’t know, I’m Dr. Sean Brennan. Since you now know my name, and I’ve not had the same privilege, please introduce yourselves.”

Polite introductions followed:
“Florence Jennings.” A no-nonsense type wearing a bland day dress and round spectacles spoke her name softly.
“Matilda Hanson,” said a pretty girl with a heart-shaped face and a pouty Clara Bow mouth. In fact, she resembled the famous Hollywood actress with her short brunette curls and her dark, soulful eyes. An unlikely candidate for pathology at first glance, if someone were to judge by looks alone
Next, a middle-aged woman with a stern stare said, “Agatha McPherson.”
“Haley Higgins.”
“Lady Georgia Gold.”
As if startled by Ginger’s title, Dr. Brennan blinked with a jerk of his head.
Had he heard of her somehow? Ginger wondered.

“Jolly good,” he said, smiling. “Let’s crack on, then. I’m thrilled about the advancements in modern forensic science, a valuable study for medical doctors and crime investigators alike. For example, the recent advances in blood grouping not only assists doctors in making a proper diagnosis and giving proper treatment, but our friends at Scotland Yard can use blood analysis to solve crimes. As forensic pathologists, you will work closely with the police. Today, we’re going to talk about trace evidence, and how the smallest thing can be a big clue.”

Ginger leaned towards Haley and whispered, “Where’s Dr. Watts?”
Haley whispered back, “His wife is very ill. He’s recently taken leave to be with her.”
“I’m sorry to hear that.” Ginger liked the elderly man, almost as much as Haley did. Dr. Watts was a highly esteemed forensic pathologist and an excellent mentor to Haley.
Ginger watched Dr. Watts’ replacement with interest. He wore a grey wool and cashmere suit with its cuff-bottom trousers. His blond and wavy hair, parted on the side, was oiled back behind small ears. The enthusiasm in his eyes showed his love for teaching, and the lines on his face proved that he smiled often.

“Forensic science is a burgeoning field, and the implications for crime detection and solution are exciting,” Dr. Brennan said. “Imagine, a simple fingerprint leading to a conviction. Under the same circumstances in former times, the culprit would’ve got away with murder.”
Dr. Brennan reached into the pocket of his waistcoat and removed a magnifying glass. “Our fictional friend, Sherlock Holmes, is never without one of these.” He presented it like a flag. “And neither should you be. Please access yours.”

Ginger reached into her handbag and removed a new magnifying glass from its protective velvet bag. She couldn’t believe she hadn’t procured one before now.
Dr. Brennan held a forefinger in the air. “Turn to the person next to you and compare each of your fingerprints. What pattern do you see? Arches? Whorls? Loops?”
“I already know what mine are,” Ginger said. “Do you?”
Haley scoffed. “Of course. My ridges form arches.”

Ginger laughed. “And mine, whorls.”
Ginger offered her palm and Haley gripped Ginger’s fingers, examining each one.
“You are correct,” Haley said, offering her fingertips for Ginger’s examination.
Ginger studied Haley’s ridges under her magnifying glass. “I find it amazing,” she said, “that, despite a mere three basic patterns, every single fingerprint is completely unique to its owner.”
Haley agreed. “So very unfortunate for the criminals around us.”
When the group had completed the task, Dr. Brennan said, “Now, take a look at the fabric of your frock. Examine each fibre and select one in particular. What colour is it? Is it bright and new or faded and worn? Is the texture smooth or rough? Perhaps there is a partial stain—what caused it? Tea? Wine? Blood?

Wanting to blend in with the student body, Ginger’s wardrobe choice was a soft pink Coco Chanel with a v-line dropped-waist wool dress trimmed in braids and buttons in the same fabric. She accessorised with a white cloche hat with black ribbons, flesh-coloured silk stockings, and black Mary Jane leather shoes. Under the magnifying glass, the strands of wool looked like earthworms.
“I spilled coffee on my sleeve this morning,” Haley said, staring at the spot on her rayon blouse with her magnifying glass. “Even though I thought I’d cleaned it thoroughly with water, under the magnifying glass I can see traces of it remaining.”
“Let me see,” Ginger said, and Haley extended her arm towards her. Ginger hovered her own glass over the area. “Interesting. What once was hidden, has now been revealed.”

~ GET IT ON AMAZON ~
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[Sharon George · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoy this series.

[Bev · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ginger is looking into the death of Angus Green. Felicia, Ginger's sister in law saw him when he was acting in a play. Unfortunely, Ginger didn't find him. Haley Higgins, a friend and long time guest at Hartigan House calls Ginger. Haley is a student of forensic pathology and found Angus' body in the mortuary without a tag. Why was his body there without identification?There is something not right going on at the mortuary, can Ginger figure it out? Then Ginger finds out there was cocaine in Angus' system. Was he involved in the Italian Mafia? Ginger finds herself and Haley in danger with all her investigating. Will they too end up in the morturay? You will need to read the book to find out. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this story.

[Stacey · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not my favorite entry in this series. I'm rapidly going off Ginger as a person & the plot is not holding my interest. Mafia? Really?
An unexpected body turns up in the morgue, then 2 more. Ginger is investigating because her friend Haley works at the morgue. Basil is also investigating, because he is a police detective. Ginger is snitty with him because he chose his wife over her, though later the wife leaves him.
I never really got much of a feel for Basil in this book & even though it's only been 2 days I can't really remember the plot, or how it turned out. Mostly I remember Ginger being high handed & making decisions that, while it is her house, ought to have been discussed with the other people living there.
I'm not really inclined to read the next books.

[Cindy Sacks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely LOVE this series! Ginger Gold is a unique heroine, and her friends, family, employees, servants, etc. are always so well drawn. The mysteries are fascinating, and the mores and fashion of the time (1920s) are also! I finish one book and on to the next. Even if you did not think you liked "historical" reads, try these. Lady Gold is ahead of her time. I do want to slap Chief Inspector Basil Reed sometimes though....

[Michele · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't like it as well as the others. I can live without the godbotting that appeared in this book. Funeral notwithstanding it isn't necessary to quote entire scripture passages.

The "romance" aspect is getting old already. It doesn't add any tension it's just getting increasingly annoying.

[Caitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

What makes these books easy to listen to is that the author is constantly reintroducing people and their emotions in every other chapter. Attention wander for a few minutes? In the next chapter you’ll be reminded of what happened explicitly.

[Torrie Tovar · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Favorite so far! If you enjoy mysteries and you're not reading this series then you are missing out!

[ShanDizzy · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's getting serious

This mystery was a little more dangerous because the Italian mafia were involved. Ginger had to use her war training to stay alive.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was disappointed with the missed clues in the last installment, but this one was better.

[Heather Belleguelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book picks up nicely where Murder at Feathers & Flair left off and leads Ginger, Haley, and Basil straight into another mystery. Unregistered bodies are turning up at the medical school’s mortuary and Ginger feels the responsibility to find out why. The mystery has so many twists and turns and, as Mrs Strauss takes her readers through the book, it feels like we are being led further and further down a rabbit hole. And a very interesting journey it is too. There is no working out how it’s all going to tie together until the end when everything becomes clear.

Murder at the Mortuary has turned out to be one of the best in the series so far, in my opinion. As well as the murder mystery, the author has cleverly included some wonderfully fascinating historical facts, details, and even characters. There are also one or two little scenes that made me smile as I compared Ginger’s world with my own. And then, of course, there’s the interaction between our favourite Lady and the handsome detective. The “will they-won’t they?” relationship continues. And I’m not giving anything else away! There is also plenty of story going on with the other regular characters, and now I can’t wait for the next book to find out how Mrs Strauss is going to continue their adventures. I can highly recommend Murder at the Mortuary for all fans of cozy mysteries, the 1920s, and handsome detectives.

A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Winner for Lee Strauss and the Ginger Gold Mysteries!

This is a fantastic period series with wonderful descriptions of the fashions, attitudes, places and societal events of the 1920s. Ginger Gold seems to be caught between both the attitudes of the times and a progressive mindset. She is a transitional personality, owning and driving her own car, socializing with people below her "station" as Lady Gold and investigating murders that just happen to fall in her lap. The writing is smooth and creates a page turner with lots of red-herrings, twists, turns and surprises. Ginger is hired to investigate the murder of an actor friend of her sister-in-law by his father and brother. And so the dangerous adventure begins in this 5th book of the series which brings the dangerous mafia out and an unusual plot. The characters in this book are well developed and are just as fun to follow as Ginger, the main character, is. We see the strange relationship between Ginger and Basil again as well as Ginger's huge heart and compassion in this book as well. We are left with a couple of cliff hangers, or loose ends which will undoubtedly lead us to future books in this series. I had to read this in one sitting as I couldn't bear to put it down! I received and ARC from the author, but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Barbara Fricks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better with each new book. I am greatly impressed at the historical detail written into the books. This effort shows in the descriptive passages written about everything from fashion and music to automobiles. It is easy to become invested not only in the main characters but the supporting characters as well. In this book we see the relationship of Ginger and Basil tested even further as they must work together to solve the murders of the unregistered bodies brought to the mortuary. Things get a bit dangerous as Ginger and Haley go seeking information at the docks. I was glad to see the young cousins we met on the SS Rosa play a big part in this story but all is not well for the boys. Will we see love bloom for Ginger and Basil? Will studious Haley find a love interest? How will young Scout fare now that his older protective cousin is on the run from the law? Can Ginger’s generosity and care change the course of his life? I gratefully review this book for the opportunity to have an advanced copy to read.

[Rayna · Rating 2 out of 5]

"It's a personal matter. Female items."
That did the trick. It usually did with men.

I wasn't nearly as captivated by this book as the previous 4 mysteries. It lacked the previous spunk and wit, feeling heavier overall. There seemed to be a lot more of Ginger pondering and such than any clue finding - and there was a distinct lack of tag team interrogations with Basil and Ginger. Ginger did some sneaking around on her own and with Haley though, so that was fun.

Felicia and Ambrosia were both whiny and annoying, and most of the other supporting characters acted largely as fillers rather than adding substance to the plot. The mafia angle was interesting but not very scary or high-stakes with the way the events were executed. Haley was great once again, so it was redeeming to have her featured more in this book in a major role. Hopefully the next book has a bit more of the original spirit.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute but flawed

I still,enjoy this series and will continue reading them. However this one was riddled with historical inaccuracies. I am a huge forensic science fanatic and the techniques used in this book would not have been available in 1925. Also a woman’s college would not be the go to place for Scotland Yard to get their information. Also while I’m sure women were getting education in 1925 it was not to this degree. And certainly not on the cutting edge technology of forensic technology.
The way they figured out the killer with the horse hair and dirt. That technology was not perfected until the 1970s there was no way in 1925 they could have deduced the killer in that way.
Also the name of the restaurant and store are very cheesy Pinocchio’s and Feathers and Flair. I have a hard time believing that a woman of high society would name her store Feathers and Flair

[Anne Rightler · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder at the Mortuary is the fifth cozy mystery with unofficial private investigator, Lady Ginger Gold and Scotland Yard Detective Reed. I love these mysteries, set in the post WWI era and this one set in London. Strauss uses lots of action and fun characters to entertain her readers. The author knows how to tell a great story and keep interest high. Italian Mafia, drugs, bodies inexplicably showing up in the morgue, and information about the beginnings of forensic science--all keep the pages turning quickly. I love the cliffhangers at the end of the books--and are things for Lady Gold and Detective Reed ever going to head to the altar??? I can't wait to read more in this series. Elizabeth Klett does a great job of narrating which makes for an enjoyable reading experience.
I listened to a library copy of the book and was not required to write a review. The opinions are my own.