Murder, She Encountered

Murder, She Reported #3

by Peg Cochran

A gutsy Manhattan socialite encounters murder and corruption at the World’s Fair in this captivating historical cozy mystery for readers of Victoria Thompson, Susan Elia MacNeal, and Rhys Bowen.

New York City, 1939. A rising star at the Daily Trumpet, Elizabeth “Biz” Adams has been sent to the World’s Fair—billed as the “World of Tomorrow,” a look toward a brighter future even as the drumbeats of war grow louder—to cover a robbery. What she stumbles upon instead is a dead woman, dumped into the Aquacade’s pool with a nylon stocking wrapped around her neck.

Elizabeth snaps a photo as the police arrest Joey Dorman, a gentle young hot dog vendor who made no secret of his obsession with the murder victim. Even though she’s thrilled that her photo makes the front page, the fear and confusion evident on Joey’s face are haunting. So Elizabeth vows to prove his innocence—or his guilt—with her partner at the Daily Trumpet, Ralph Kaminsky. Meanwhile, her romance with Detective Sal Marino is heating up, and Elizabeth is more determined than ever to follow her heart.

But when Kaminsky’s efforts to expose the real killer land him in the hospital, Elizabeth is forced to continue the investigation on her own. And as she tries to narrow down the long list of suspects, she discovers a dark secret running through the Fair—a secret some would kill to protect.

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

288 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 3, 2019

About the author

Mystery writing lets Peg indulge her curiosity under the guise of “work” (aka research). She put pen to paper at age seven when she wrote plays and forced her cousins to perform them at Christmas dinner. She switched to mysteries when she discovered the perfect hiding place for a body down the street from her house.

When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, cooking, spoiling her granddaughter and checking her books' stats on Amazon.

A former Jersey girl, Peg now resides in Michigan. She is the author of the Open Book Series (written as Margaret Loudon), the Murder, She Reported series, the Cranberry Cove Series, the Farmer’s Daughter series, the Gourmet De-Lite series, the Lucille series, and the Sweet Nothings Lingerie series (written as Meg London.)

Reviews

[Ell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that these books are unique among the cozy genre. They have a grittier, more mysterious air to them while still avoiding the violence and gruesome details of other crime genres. To me this series truly reflects the Golden Age of detective fiction.

It is 1939 and a young woman is found dead at the World’s Fair in bustling New York City, with of newly available nylon stockings tied around her neck. Elizabeth “Biz” Adams snaps a photo of the unfortunate scene which lands on the front page of The Daily Trumpet newspaper. She should be thrilled, but she can’t help but notice there is a disconnect between the crime scene and the man arrested for the homicide. Biz and her mentor, reporter Ralph Kaminksy, decide to do a little digging. But when Kaminsky ends up hospitalized, Biz is forced to investigate on her own. She soon finds there are some secrets people will kill to keep. There are twists and turns while motives abound.

This is the third in the series. The first is, Murder, She Reported. The Second book is, Murder, She Uncovered. If you’ve missed the previous books, I highly recommend you read them too. However, this is a wonderfully written book that stands alone as well.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third book in this series will take you to the 1939 New York World 's Fair. Elizabeth “Biz” Adams, photographer for Daily Trumpet works with Ralph Kaminsky, a reporter hears of a murder that occurred at the fair. Biz and Ralph head fifths fair coverage story and pictures for the paper. There the victim work at DuPont booth demonstrating the new material nylon stockings that last longer than silk Elizabeth continues with meeting the homicide detective Sal Marino against her parents wishes. The news from Europe continues to be negative making war likely. A boatload of Jews is docked outside of New York City. Biz and Ralph continue to visit the fair hoping to get an exclusive report of the murders. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.

Disclosure: Thanks to ALIBI for a copy through NetGalley. The opInions expressed are my own.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder, She Encountered by Peg Cochran has Elizabeth “Biz” Adams visiting the New York World’s Fair with veteran crime reporter, Ralph Kaminsky when a woman is murdered. The police arrest hot dog vender, Joey Dorman for the crime but things do not add up. Ralph and Biz dig deeper into the case in the hopes of a big story. When Ralph ends up in the hospital with bronchitis, Biz continues to investigate. Unfortunately, someone is not happy with Biz’ questions and decides to help her cool off. Someone has a secret that they will kill for which is evident when a second victim turns up at the fair. Ralph springs himself from the hospital and rejoins Biz to get to the bottom of this perplexing case. Murder, She Encountered is the third in the Murder She Reported Series. It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series. However, I have enjoyed reading the series in order which has allowed me to get to know Ralph Kaminsky and Elizabeth “Biz” Adams. Elizabeth comes from a well-to-family, but she chafes at the endless rules and restrictions. Her mother, Helen does not understand Elizabeth’s desire to work. It is a good thing that Biz’ parents do not take the Daily Trumpet, or they would lock Elizabeth in her room. Ralph Kaminsky is a veteran crime reporter who grabs Biz whenever he goes out on a story. He is the gruff type with a heart of gold. You can tell that he cares for Elizabeth. Ralph and Elizabeth make a great team. Detective Sal Marino is Elizabeth’s beau and she is falling for the handsome detective. She can see a future with Marino, but Elizabeth cannot say the same for her mother. I found Murder, She Encountered to be well-written with steady pacing. I can tell that Peg Cochran has done her research. I enjoyed her descriptions of the World’s Fair taking place in New York in 1939. The lingo is accurate for the time period along with the clothing and types of conveyances. We get to see what it was like to take the subway in 1939. There are new inventions mentioned like nylon from Dupont and air conditioning. Elizabeth shocks her mother by going out in trousers which were made popular by Katherine Hepburn. Mr. & Mrs. Adams went out to view The Philadelphia Story and Kay Kyser’s “Three Little Fishes” was playing on the radio (FYI—Kay Kyser is a man). The mystery was complex and there was active investigating throughout the story. I like how all the pieces tied together. The author really thought out this multifaceted whodunit. The ending has me anxious for the next Murder She Reported novel. Murder, She Encountered is an engrossing cozy mystery with a mystifying mystery, exciting exhibits, soaring temperatures, a poorly reporter, meddlesome models, and a probing photographer.

[Hilary (A Wytch's Book Review) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peg Cochran has done it again, a humdinger of a historical cozy that makes you think you are there!

Biz and Kaminsky have been sent to the World Fair to cover a robbery, when they arrive though the murder of a young woman who was found strangled and dumped in a pool takes precedence and they take advantage of the fact that they are the first reporters on the scene, Biz had taken a photograph of the young man being escorted out by the police, having assumed he was the robber, and it turns out he was arrested for the murder of the young woman (who it turns out was one of the workers at the DuPont section, demonstrating the new Nylon stockings).  That would be enough of a scoop but following on from that they are at a bar when they discover that the police are in the alleyway with another murdered body!

They are chasing down both stories, and wondering if there was/is a connection between them when Kaminsky ends up in hospital, Biz is determined that Kaminsky isn't going to lose his top reporter slot at the Daily Trumpet and so she continues following things up, only to end up in more danger than she ever imagined!

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Photographer "Biz" Adams is assigned o reporter Ralph Kaminsky. It is 1939 and NYC is home to the World's Fair. When a young woman is murdered at the fair, Biz finds herself investigating alone when Kaminsky ends up in hospital. Elizabeth's quick thinking helps her friend Det. Marino catch the killer.

A fast-paced historical cozy mystery set in 1939 that highlights the upcoming technology we take from granted now.

I volunteered to read an ARC through Net Galley.

[Rolé - Hooked By That Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

I continued to enjoy Elizabeth and Kaminsky’s reporting efforts in this third installment of the series. It is set at the World Fair in New York in 1939. I really enjoyed reading about some of the exhibits at the fair, and especially the newly invented nylon stocking. Again, this story was filled with intrigue and suspense as Biz and Kaminsky try to stay on top of the story. There were plenty of interesting bits that showed the different sides of humanity.

Elizabeth is still growing into her independence, and she makes more choices that could be considered rebellious for her and the time she lives in. I would have liked to see a bit more of detective Moreno, but their relationship is continuing to slowly evolve.

I can definitely recommend the entire series so far and cannot wait to see wat Biz Adams will get involved in next.

I received an advanced copy of the book from Netgalley to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Murder, She Encountered by Peg Cochran, is an outstanding mystery with characters that have grit and substance set in historical New York, including the World Fair.
Murder at the World Fair, will Elizabeth and Kaminsky crack the case before police detective Marino?
Our Sleuth
Elizabeth Adams is a socialite and crime photographer for the Daily Trumpet. She is making changes to her life in this installment. Elizabeth lives a pretty sweet life with servants and money. Will she go it on her own? I believe that she will and that she will make it. However, her mother is not going to be happy about anything that Elizabeth wants.

I like that Elizabeth is smart, kind and she is a great photographer. Elizabeth's relationship with Kaminsky is sweet, and the two of them make a great news team, plus they seem to take care of each other. 
Detective Sal Marino
Marino and Elizabeth have an attraction, but they are from different parts of society. Marino doesn't seem to mind. He introduced her to his family, and she to hers. Will Elizabeth give up her status to be with Marino? Seriously, does she have to give up anything, can't she be who she wants?

Marino is intelligent, good looking, and is a great conversationalist. I like it when he introduces Elizabeth to foods that she hasn't ever had before. I think that they are a fabulous couple and I hope they will make it. 
The Mystery
There is a young lady murdered at the World Fair, and then a French sailor is killed at a local bar. However, are these murders related? The cause of death is different in each one. What could a working girl and a French sailor have in common? Then the young lady's boyfriend ends up dead too. Elizabeth and Kaminsky are on the case. Kaminsky ends up in the hospital for a day or two, but he is like a dog with a bone. He and Elizabeth are going to break this story wide open. 
Five Stars for Murder, She Encountered by Peg Cochran
I loved this story. Peg Cochran transported me to New York in the 1920s with this well-written mystery. The descriptions and the smells bring it all to life. So, it's five stars for Murder, She Encountered by Peg Cochran. I am recommending this to all historical mystery readers out there. 



Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Murder, She Encountered by Peg Cochran.

This Guest Review is for Baroness' Book Trove. Thank you for the opportunity to review this book on your site and to the author for supplying this marvelous book.

Until the next time,



 

This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove

[Fred · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder, She Encountered is the third book in the Murder, She Reported mystery series.

Elizabeth “Biz” Adams, photographer for the Daily Trumpet and reporter, Ralph Kaminsky gets a call to head out to the World’s Fair to report on the finding of a body in the Aquacade. As they are approaching the Aquacade they pass the police escorting Joey Dorman who has been arrested for the murder of Florence “Flo” Grimm. Flo worked at the DuPont exhibit, who was promoting their latest discovery...nylon hose, which Flo had been strangled with. Biz and Kaminsky don’t feel that Dorman is guilty and set out to learn who the killer might be. In their questioning of Flo’s co-workers, they are considering her boyfriend as a prime suspect, but soon they also have to start considering some of her co-workers.

Just as they are on the right path to solving the murder, Kaminsky needs to be hospitalized and Biz begins to wonder if the killer will be found. But then Biz realizes that she has been on several assignments with Kaminsky and decides that she just might be able to learn who the killer might be.

I love this series, not only are the books well written and told, but they also have a wonderful cast of characters. In addition, the reader also learns what life was like, in this book, 1939, living conditions and costs of various items. I also enjoy reading about Biz and how she deals with her mother. The mother wants Biz to find a young man from society and marry and give up her job at the paper. But Biz has met Detective Sal Marino and feels that he might be the man she would like to have a romantically involved with.

I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this very interesting series.

[Susan Johnston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Princess Fuzzypants here: It is impossible not to like Biz. She was born with a silver spoon in her mouth and while other Society girls flutter around, she is the handy eyes of a hard boiled reporter. Together he gets the story and she gets the photos that have earned her respect and admiration...and a rather interesting boyfriend, who just happens to be a detective. What is more, she had polio and not only survived but has not let her weakness hold her back. If anything it has made her more determined.
This story is set in 1939. A woman is found drowned at The World’s Fair and Elizabeth and Kaminsky know there is more to the story than just a tragic death. As they dig deeper, more bodies pile up. After Kaminsky is sidelined in a hospital and Biz must go it alone, everyone is hoping the next body found is not hers. She finds the answer but it may cost her her life.
It’s a good story with an interesting assortment of characters as well as atmosphere of that time. War had not yet erupted and it would be a further two years before the Americans joined the battle, but it was clear evil was afoot that threatened the entire world. Yet in NYC progress and the future was being showcased at the Fair. If you are a fan of historical fiction, you will enjoy this story.
Five purrs and two paws up.

[Loretta · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Netgalley ARC- Elizabeth Adams from a well to do family working as a photographer for the Daily Trumpet paper. The reporter Kaminski takes her out with him to cover a story at the Worlds Fair in New York. They happened to hear about a murder and then get information on the victim and the people that knew her. As it happens Elizabeth decides to go interview suspects on her own because Kaminsky was in the hospital. Very exciting things happen that keep her going and reporting back to Kaminsky so he can meet the dead lines and this also gets her into a lot of trouble.

Merged review:

Elizabeth Adams, from a well to do family. working for the Daily Trumpet as a photographer goes with the reporter Kaminsky who takes her out to crime scenes to cover stories. He heard of something at the New York Worlds Fair and while there happened to hear of a murder and they get the information on the victim and the people that knew her. .As it happens while they are investigating, Kaminsky goes to the hospital and Elizabeth decides to investigate on her own reporting to Kaminsky so he can call it in to meet dead lines. Things happen that gets her into trouble but she keeps going. A fast read with an exciting end! A Netgalley ARC.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's 1939, and Daily Trumpet photographer Elizabeth "Biz" Adams and her partner Ralph Kaminsky are investigating a murder at the World's Fair in the sweltering heat of a New York summer. When Kaminsky is sidelined with an illness, Biz is forced to handle most of the investigating on her own but that's okay because Biz is brave, tenacious, spunky, and she works hard to get the job done. This book is the third in the series, and I really enjoy the setting of a simpler time in history. As an added bonus, Ms. Cochran's storytelling is very reminiscent of the Golden Age of Mystery. Very enjoyable, and the mystery kept me guessing!

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

This is the third book in the Murder, She Reported mystery series by Peg Cochran.

This series just keeps getting better and better. I reviewed book two MURDER, SHE UNCOVERED back in May and gave it four stars. I will definitely need to pick up book one just to complete my series reading.

This book is just all old-fashioned journalism set in 1939 at the World’s Fair in New York. Elizabeth “Biz” Adams is out main character during a time when women weren’t exactly taken for their word about things. Back then the guys were in charge and very few women had jobs like Biz does in this book. It is definitely quite different from now. I cringe when the police let the reporters wander onto a crime scene. Since this is set way before CSI was ever a thing, there is no wonder rules aren’t in place to keep the scene safe from outside influence. Forensic clues mean nothing in this time period unless there was a clever Sherlock Holmes wannabe in their midsts. And so far I haven’t discovered one in this series.

Biz is quite clever and has a unique outlook on life due to her wealthy parents and her ability to have a lot of things others in her community have to go without. She is very cognizant of this fact and plans through much of the book to move out and live on her own away from the family.

Biz is a photographer for the Daily Trumpet working with a veteran reporter named Kaminsky. He is away in the hospital for much of this story so Biz is set loose to discover the clues all on her own which I found refreshing. A woman is found at the fair dead. She works for the Dupont exhibit where they are revealing nylon stockings and this is what is used as the murder weapon.

The first suspect is, of course, the boyfriend. And when that man is found dead not long later, the police are scratching their heads and this pushes our Daily Trumpet reporter to dig more into the details of the case and putting her in a more and more dangerous position.

I enjoyed this book and look forward to other books in this series. This feels like almost a whole new cozy mystery genre since it is not as fresh and clean as most cozies and has a bit more grit than I am used to. And more grit is not necessarily bad. In this case, it is very good. Very, very good. Keep up the great work, Ms. Cochran! I appreciate you!

If you love a good cozy mystery, definitely check out this one. You won’t be disappointed.

I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.

[Katreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

MURDER, SHE ENCOUNTERED by Peg Cochran
The Third Murder, She Reported Mystery

It's 1939 and the World's Fair has come to New York City. Elizabeth "Biz" Adams and her newspaper partner, Ralph Kaminsky, take the train to Queens to report on a robbery at the Fair, but what they find is a murdered woman. As the pair work to get the scoop, Kaminsky's health takes a turn for the worse. Determined to make him proud, and to prove she can do things on her own, Biz continues the investigation while he recuperates. Surely, the hot dog vendor is innocent, especially when so many others look guilty. If the murder wasn't perplexing enough, Biz also has the conundrum of her relationship with Detective Sal Marino. One thing's for certain, Elizabeth Adams is ready to assert her independence and live her life on her own terms.

1939 was an amazing year, fantastic movies were released (THE WIZARD OF OZ and GONE WITH THE WIND are just two) and my dad was born. Needless to say I was pumped to read about Biz's 1939 adventures at the World's Fair. The descriptions of the Fair made me feel as if I was actually there, feeling the heat and venturing into the World of Tomorrow although I was eighty years in the past. This special setting made the mystery that much more intriguing. The mystery led Biz and Kaminsky into the lives of some very interesting characters, from the Dupont girls playing tug of war with nylon stockings to residents of Hell's Kitchen. 1939 was also a historic year in Europe as Hitler invaded Poland. Hints of what was to come can be found on the pages, from a co-worker's fear for his family to the comments made by Biz's brother's new girlfriend; hints that add authenticity along with a somber note for those of us who know the future.

I really like Elizabeth and would like to think we'd be good friends. She could have an easy life, but she eschews upper class convention and that gilded cage and instead makes a life for herself. Not only does she have a job, but she's good at it. Biz is everything you want in a protagonist. She's smart and resourceful as well as loyal and determined. She also has a few flaws. I like her developing relationship with Marino and, like her, wonder where it will lead. Times are changing and so is she.

MURDER, SHE ENCOUNTERED is an engaging mystery that captures the essence of the year 1939, from the optimism of tomorrow to the concerns in Europe, from sticking with tradition to striking out on one's own.

FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elizabeth Adams, is a woman before her time. She is a crime photographer at the Daily Trumpet in New York City and works closely with veteran crime reporter Ralph Kaminsky. Today no one would blink an eye at a woman photographer, but in 1939 that is virtually unheard of. She is a career woman when almost all women married and stayed home to raise children.

The reporter and his photographer are on the way to the World’s Fair, where a robbery has just been committed. But when they arrive to get the details for a story, a dead body is found. Is this crime connected to the robbery or is it unrelated? Both Biz (as Kaminsky calls Elizabeth) and Kaminsky are on the trail. The story takes them in and around the World’s Fair as well as New York City.

While working the clues to the crimes at the World’s Fair, Kaminsky has a health scare. Unlike other women of the day, Elizabeth jumps right into the investigation, much to everyone else’s dismay. They might just be right when she puts herself in danger. Hopefully the reporter and his favorite photographer will live to write another story.

All of the details Cochran adds to this historical cozy mystery are fascinating. From the nickel and dime subway rides to the high heels Elizabeth wears to crime scenes, the reader is pulled into the past. The setting of this novel is brilliant. Bodies among the new inventions that we now consider relics of our past really pulls the reader into the past and the story. I love learning new facts about the World’s Fair that Cochran tucks in this perfect cozy mystery.

This is the third book in the Murder She Encountered Series. It is the first book I have read in the series, and I found it fun and interesting. I was not confused or lost by jumping in the middle of the series. It is also the first book I have read by the prolific cozy author, Peg Cochran. She is the author of several cozy mystery series. I am excited to read the others in this series.

DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy for free from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. Copyright © 2019 Laura Hartman

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Murder, She Encountered by Peg Cochran is a terrific quasi-cozy mystery and a terrific read for anyone who likes WWII era fiction. One of the outstanding things about this book, which doesn't always happen, is that the author kept us solidly in 1939 New York between speech patterns, history happening in real time, and social history as it was happening. The mystery was a good one, with the lead characters, a reporter and his female photographer. Ralph Kaminsky was a veteran crime reporter and his sidekick/photographer Elizabeth Adams was a society girl out to make a place in this world. They were a terrific pair, playing off each other constantly. Elizabeth worked hard throughout the book to become more independent, to put aside her parents' expectations and make her own way in an era where status was everything, and woman stayed living in their parents' home until they got married and moved to their husband's home. Where nice girls didn't date guys from the other side of the tracks. Cochran did a fabulous job keeping all this in the forefront of her novel. Too often authors set the stage in the beginning and then forget all about it as the novel progresses. No Cochran.

A young woman is found drowned/strangled floating in a pool with a pair stockings wrapped around her neck, important in an age where women still wore silk stockings and nylons were just at the cusp of usage. There were several other murders, seemingly not connected, but coincidental. It took the police and Kaminsky/Adams to unravel the whole thing, which they did in the end, through a lot of hoofing around New York City in an age before cell phones, Internet, and Uber. This was an excellent mystery and museum piece, both. I highly recommend it.

I received a free ARC of Murder, She Encountered from Netgalley. All opinions and interpretations expressed herein are solely my own. #netgalley #murdersheencountered

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth 'Biz' Adams wants to earn her way in life as a newspaper reporter and to live on her own, even if it means moving from the posh life she has grown up in to a cold water flat. She is a very good photographer and teams up with a veteran reporter, Ralph Kaminsky. One very hot summer day in 1939, they get a tip that there has been an armed hold up of a hot dog stand at the New York World's Fair. Off they go, eager to scoop the other newspapers, having been told that they are the first to get this tip. Upon arriving at the fair they discover that the tip is a bust. As they start to leave there is some commotion and the police pass by with a young man in custody. When Biz looks into his eyes, she is certain he isn't guilty of anything. With the hope of an even bigger scoop than a robbed hot dog stand, they track down the crime scene and the cop on the case is her boyfriend. A young woman, working at the DuPont exhibit demonstrating the new nylon stockings, is found floating in an exhibition pool, a nylon stocking wrapped around her neck. Now that is a huge scoop and Biz has taken lots of photographs, ready to land on the front page.
She and Ralph start to follow the case but soon Biz has to go solo when Ralph ends up in the hospital. No worries, she is intelligent, gutsy and clever. Investigating soon puts her in the killers crosshairs and tests all of her skills.
The setting of 1939 and the New York World's Fair were, to my ear, pitch perfect - start to finish. The description of the Summer heat and the sights, sounds and smells of the activity at the fair were so real, they drew me in and kept me hooked. The mystery was well crafted and the characters were well developed. Having enjoyed each of the three books, so far, in this series, I hope there will be many more.
My thanks to the publisher, Random House and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I spent today reading Peg Cochran's MURDER SHE ENCOUNTERED and enjoying time travel to the 1939 NYC World's Fair, an excellent setting (I searched online for photos to extend the experience) and gripping adventure.
Elizabeth Adam’s mother doesn’t think it’s proper for a young lady to take photos of crime scenes, and mother doesn’t know the half of it. The adventures “Biz” and Kaminsky have in pursuit of news scoops are perhaps too risky, but they are hopeless to resist, incurably bitten by the “news bug.”
Elizabeth’s mother also thinks Detective Sal Marino, while charming, is merely Elizabeth’s fun flirtation before she settles down with “a suitable young man.” I’m willing to bet she’s wrong, but we’ll have to wait and see.
Tracking down the truth about a murder at the Fair proves difficult . . . so many lies, so many puzzles, so much danger. The search takes them on a thorough exploration of the Fair and the city, from low to high, savory and “un.” Through it all, good people look out for one another, even when told to “stop fussing,” which I liked. I also liked the inclusion of the Queen Mary, which I once toured, a nice memory.
I enjoyed the adventure, from ballroom to back alleys, vicariously, while I stayed safe and snug at home, and I do not regret neglected chores one bit. I do wonder, though, was John the competent water rescuer who I think he was? I’m going to say yes, but “you don’t have to take my word for it.” If you read series in order, this is book 3, but it could stand alone quite nicely, your call.

[Coralee Hicks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peg Cochran, the author of several cozy mystery series, continues the story of Elizabeth "Biz" Adams, a crime photographer for the Daily Trumpet. It is now July 1939, New York is fully invested in their Worlds Fair set in Flushing Meadows. Ralph beckons "Biz" to join him as he reports on a robbery at the Fair. She agrees and the game's afoot.
Upon arrival at the fair, the pair realize the situation is more serious than a robbery. The robbery was a hoax. The murder of Florence Grimm, one of the demonstrators at the DuPont exhibit has been discovered where Billy Rose's Aquacade is staged. Her clothes are saturated with water. A nylon cord is wrapped around her neck. Standing over her, in wet clothes is Joey Dorman. The lead murder suspect.

Cochran is a wonderful researcher. As before, her painstaking efforts pay off. This setting is true to life, giving a reader a sense of being transported back in time. For example, we know that World War II looms on the horizon, the characters may discuss the unrest in Europe, but do not show precognition.

Cochran includes the main secondary characters from books 1 and 2. The live their lives with us.
Who was the perpetrator? No spoilers from me, just a little 'hint' that Biz is taken hostage.

Off stage violence combined with a standard vocabulary make this book accessible for Young Adults as well as devoted cozy mystery fans.

Recommended

Full disclosure: I received this ARC from netgalley and Penguin/Random House in exchange for an unbiased review. Thank you for the opportunity.

[Shelley Lawrence · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars
Murder She Encountered by Peg Cochran is the third book, and newest release in the Murder She Reported cozy mystery series. This story features Elizabeth Adams, Manhattan socialite and crime photographer who is sent to report on a murder at the 1939 World’s Fair. She and her partner Kaminsky hustle to scoop the rest of the press for the story and find themselves embroiled in the mystery and deeply involved in solving the crime themselves.

As usual, I love the atmosphere and the ambience of these stories, as well as the historical details. The sleuthing is intricate and well-plotted. I also enjoy the interactions between characters, especially Kominsky and Elizabeth’s friendship/working relationship in addition to the budding romance between she and detective Marino.

I do think this story’s pacing could have been a bit better. It began to drag about halfway through and became somewhat convoluted. I found myself wanting to skim some of the details. The resolution of the crime was also rather melodramatic and far-fetched. The conclusion was sweet, but also abrupt and felt unfinished. I recognize that the author intended to create a lead-in to the next story, but I think it would have benefited with a little more of a wrap-up added to the final pages.

All-in-all this was an interesting mystery, clearly atmospheric, and I really like the characters. The particular crime just wasn’t of peak interest to me.

[Floyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peg Cochran has written the perfect cozy mystery:
A good mystery

* Likable (most of them, anyhow; at least one is a murderer)
and believable characters
* Dysfunctional families
* Historical setting
* A light touch of romance

Elizabeth “Biz” Adams is the crime photographer for the New York Daily Trumpet. Ralph Kaminsky is the reporter to which she is assigned. Together, with Detective Sal Marino (Biz’s “boyfriend?”), they will need to identify and find the murderer of the unidentified young man pulled from one of the lakes at the 1939 New York World’s Fair.

Along with a fun jaunt through the fairgrounds and the subway system transporting visitors to and from the fair, we also get a glimpse of the historical events and settings of the era. This reviewer was particularly fascinated with the mention, albeit brief, of the SS. (sic) St. Louis’ arrival from Europe. Though the details are not discussed in the current book, a quick search of Google showed how similar the attitude of Americans in 1939 parallel those of many Americans in the 21st century, with similar results.

For the reader looking for a historical novel or just a good cozy mystery, Murder, She Encountered might just hit the spot.
______________
This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder at the 1939 World’s Fair

Elizabeth “Biz” Adams, a photographer, and her colleague, Ralph Kaminsky, a reporter, are at the l939 World’s Fair in New York City reporting on a robbery. Instead they encounter a murdered young woman found in the Aqucade’s pool with a nylon stocking around her neck. Elizabeth snaps a photo as the police arrest Joey Dorman, a young hot dog vender. He’s terrified and says he’s innocent.

Elizabeth’s photo makes the front page, but she can’t forget the frightened look on Joey’s face. She’s convinced he’s innocent, and she and Kaminsky set out investigate. When Kaminsky is injured, Elizabeth decides to continue alone.

The World’s Fair is a perfect setting for this cozy mystery. The author does a good job of describing the marvels on display as well as bringing in the tense atmosphere as the world careens toward war. Elizabeth is a perfect heroine for this era. She comes from a wealthy family. Her mother wants nothing more than to see her married, but Elizabeth wants to make her own way.

If you enjoy cozy mysteries this is a good series. The books have serious mysteries to solve, but keep any illicit sexual encounters out of the story line.

I received this book from Net Galley for this review.

[Fee (Ebook Addicts) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three in the Murder She Reported series, and can be easily read as a stand alone book. There is so much going on in this story, its 1939 and the world is on the brink of war, there are boatloads of Jews arriving at the dock of New York City and also it is the time of the World Fair. Elizabeth 'Biz' Adams who is a photographer for the Daily Trumpet and her reporter friend Ralph Kaminsky head to the World Fair to cover a story about a robbery but instead they uncover a murder! A young woman is found dead with a pair of stocking's wrapped around her neck and dumped in the pool at the Aquacade. They manage to get the inside scoop and find out the young woman's name, but also discover there are a list of suspects. The duo not only investigate for the paper but try there hardest to find out who did it. 

There is a few murders in this book, seemingly connected or are they? This is a great cozy mystery that will have to hooked and you will be taken back in time with all the wonderful sights of that time period.

Murder She Encountered is a great addition to the series and I cant wait to read more from Biz, Kaminsky and her possible love interest with Detective Marino.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series remains top notch. It takes place in 1939 in and around New York and the world`s fir. Biz and Kominsky continue to make a great team and are fortunate (and smart) enough to scoop other papers regularly. They dig deep and even get to the crimes and criminals faster than the police.
This gives Biz a chance to leak information to her boyfriend, Detective Marino.

Although boyfriend may be too strong a word, their attraction continues. Surprisingly Biz`s parents seem to like her young man. Her mother confesses that she herself had an infatuation before getting married. I that what this is? Can two people from different sides of the track have a meaningful relationship?
Biz has time to ponder this as she also chases clues and finds herself in danger.
Typically working as a team, she finds herself investigating alone. When more than one murder occur, could they be linked?
Are Biz`s dreams of becoming a real reporter coming true? Is it time to leave the next and safety of her parents` home? Will what she find at the World`s Fair be anything like her own future?

Exciting as well as dangerous. The descriptions and references with intricate details make all the difference.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd installment of the Murder She Reported series. I had not read the prior two books so this was the first I have read. This is set in 1939 New York City and Elizabeth “Biz” Adams is a reporter at the Daily Trumpet and she and her mentor Ralph Kaminsky are covering the World’s Fair. What they discover is a dead woman with a nylon stocking wrapped around her neck. They take some pictures and also capture the arrest of Joey Dorman a young hot dog vendor who was fond of the victim. Biz is happy as the pictures end on the front page, however, she is haunted by the expressions of Joey and is determined to find the truth whether he is innocent or guilty. Biz and Ralph begin their investigating and he winds up in the hospital as they are people out there who want to keep the truth hidden. Biz has to continue on her own. She also has a budding romance with a detective Sal Marino. This was a good mystery and was very interesting to read about the era prior to World War 2.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Murder, She Encountered" is a mystery set in July 1939 in New York City. It's the third book in a series. You don't need to read the previous books to understand this story, and this book didn't spoil the previous mysteries.

The author included interesting historical and setting details, especially about the Worlds Fair. Elizabeth and her reporter partner were observant and asked a lot of questions – often questions more suited to a detective than a reporter, though. They uncovered a lot of motives, but not a lot of clues. But as the critical clues were uncovered, Elizabeth was able to figure out whodunit (and whodunit is guessable). Conflict is building in her relationship with the handsome detective, though, since she withheld information from him in order to get an exclusive article on the front page of her newspaper.

There was no sex. There were only a couple uses of bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting historical mystery.

I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very enjoyable mystery! The characters were interesting and the descriptions of 1939 New York City and the World's Fair were well written. The mystery was well paced and the clues came naturally throughout the course of the story. I really liked the main characters, Biz and Kaminsky, though I'm not sure how realistic they are when compared to how people actually acted at that time. A few times I found myself asking if reporters and photographers were really allowed the access Biz and Kaminsky enjoyed or if the police were so forthcoming with information. In the end it didn't make much difference to me because I was immersed in the story and thoroughly enjoyed it. My only criticism is that the references to Nazi's and the upcoming war seemed a bit forced but I'm not sure what the author could have done differently. I do give her kudos for including then as they were a reality of the time and to ignore them would have lacked realism. That said, I hope there will be plenty more books in the series. I can't wait to see how Biz negotiates NYC during WWII.

[Lynne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a historical cozy, set in 1939 at the World's Fair. Biz (Elizabeth) is a woman of the future with a job as a photographer for a newspaper. She and her journalist partner Ralph Kaminsky, have been sent to the Fair to report on a burglary. While there, they stumble upon a murder. Kaminsky and Biz are sure there is more to the story. So they dig deeper.

This was a fun and easy to read. It didn't keep me turning pages and I am not sure why. Perhaps the setting and time period? I liked Biz. She was trying to break out of the normal expectations for someone of her position. Her boyfriend is an Italian police officer, she works, and wants to move into her own apartment. Kaminsky is exactly what you imagine a journalist of the time to be. Hard as nails, smokes and drinks to excess and is always chasing a story.

Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and offer my honest opinion on this book.

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder, She Encountered is a historical mystery set in 1939 NYC. Biz (Elizabeth) Adams is a socialite turned newspaper photographer. When a murder occurs at the 1939 New York World's Fair she works with her reporter partner to solve the mystery. She also investigates the murder of a French sailor ... and finds time to continue her romance with police detective Sal Marino.

I wanted to read this novel because I love historical mysteries and I have always been interested in world's fairs and expositions. The details about the 1939 NYWF were fascinating and I enjoyed that aspect of this novel especially.

The mystery didn't grab me as much -- lots of characters seen briefly, with little time to engage or build an interest in the storyline.

That said, this is my second read in this series and I will continue with the next book when it is released. I like Biz as a character and enjoy the glimpse of long ago NYC in this series.

[Jacqueline Seaman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I reviewed the book titled "Murder She Encountered". Being a Native New Yorker, I really enjoyed reading about the old New York City. I think the World Fair was an excellent backdrop for this story. The plot was good if a bit predictable, but enjoyable. It was pretty clear who the murderer was but the reason behind the murder took some deciphering. The storyline was a bit draggy, the pace of the story was very slow. I did not read the book that preceded this one so maybe I missed the character development in the first book, but as a stand-alone, the characters should have been a bit more developed and relatable. All in all the book was okay and enjoyable. Would I buy the next in the series? Probably not. Would I read the next in the series, eh maybe.
I received this book as an advanced copy from Net Galley, for review purposes only. The thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kindle Copy for Review from NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group – Alibi.

I received an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.

During the World Fair a wealthy socialite stumbles across a murder and corruption. She is an upcoming reporter covering the fair finding the body and happens to photograph the police arresting the suspect a vendor at the fair.

Despite getting the photo, she does not believe the vendor did it when she sees his expression in the photograph. She and her fellow reporter will further investigate further to prove his innocence or guilt. But things get sticky when her partner ends up in the hospital will she be next?

It is a quaint time period cozy.