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Jane Prescott #4
Death of a Showman
In Mariah Fredericks's Death of a Showman , the fourth in this absorbing series set in Gilded Age New York, lady’s maid Jane Prescott is thrust into the world of show business, where a killer is stalking Broadway.
“A lively upstairs/downstairs mystery.”― New York Times Book Review on A Death of No Importance
It is the summer of 1914 and lady’s maid Jane Prescott is back in New York with the Tylers after a glittering society wedding in Europe. On their return, Jane learns another wedding has taken place. Her old dancing partner, Leo Hirschfeld, has married a chorus girl in his new Broadway musical.
Jane and Louise Tyler are pulled into the sparkling and scandalous world of Broadway, as a star struck Louise invests in Leo's show, and Jane chaperones her at rehearsals. But behind the glittering facade of the theater, there are rivalries, secret romances, and some very dodgy business practices. When the show's abusive producer, Sidney Warburton, is murdered, the list of suspects is long. Was it the comedic star or her gambler boyfriend? The disgruntled costume designer? The beautiful, blond dancer, her jealous husband? Or was it Leo himself, who had more reason than anyone to hate Sidney Warburton?
As the First World war looms in the distance, Jane and tabloid reporter Michael Behan must strip back the masks of these consummate performers before one of them kills again.
“A lively upstairs/downstairs mystery.”― New York Times Book Review on A Death of No Importance
It is the summer of 1914 and lady’s maid Jane Prescott is back in New York with the Tylers after a glittering society wedding in Europe. On their return, Jane learns another wedding has taken place. Her old dancing partner, Leo Hirschfeld, has married a chorus girl in his new Broadway musical.
Jane and Louise Tyler are pulled into the sparkling and scandalous world of Broadway, as a star struck Louise invests in Leo's show, and Jane chaperones her at rehearsals. But behind the glittering facade of the theater, there are rivalries, secret romances, and some very dodgy business practices. When the show's abusive producer, Sidney Warburton, is murdered, the list of suspects is long. Was it the comedic star or her gambler boyfriend? The disgruntled costume designer? The beautiful, blond dancer, her jealous husband? Or was it Leo himself, who had more reason than anyone to hate Sidney Warburton?
As the First World war looms in the distance, Jane and tabloid reporter Michael Behan must strip back the masks of these consummate performers before one of them kills again.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published April 13, 2021
47 people are currently reading
2335 people want to read
About the author
Mariah Fredericks
26 books683 followersMariah Fredericks was born, raised, and still lives in New York City. She graduated from Vassar College with a degree in history. She is the author of the Jane Prescott mystery series as well as The Lindbergh Nanny, which Nelson DeMille called, "a masterful blending of fact and fiction that is as compelling as it is entertaining." The Wharton Plot, was named one of the best mysteries of 2024 by Library Journal. "An Edith Wharton scholar could read Ms. Frederick’s novel with profit and amusement."—Wall Street Journal. Her next novel, The Girl in the Green Dress, featuring Zelda Fitzgerald and New Yorker writer Morris Markey, is out September 2, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
May 2, 2021
This fun and well-written cozy historical mystery by Mariah Fredericks takes us right to the heart
of Broadway. This is the fourth book in the Jane Prescott series. It can be read as a standalone, but
events from previous books are discussed in this story, so reading the first three books would be beneficial. In 1914 New York City, Jane Prescott, lady's maid to Louise Tyler, is back in New York after a trip to Europe. Louise has invested in a Broadway Show and Jane begins accompanying her to
events and rehearsals as a chaperone. Leo Hirschfeld, Jane's romance from the previous summer,
has written this Broadway musical. He has also made some choices that are hard for Jane to accept.
Then a well-known producer is killed in a bathroom of the famous Rector's. Tabloid reporter
Michael Behan is on the case. Will Jane help him find the killer?
Mariah Fredericks takes us on a sometimes hilarious journey into the world of Broadway and
the elite circles of 1914 New York City. The author's wry humor will keep you chuckling as we
uncover more secrets and clues, and we learn that especially in show business, things aren't always as
they seem. Jane is an engaging protagonist. Her shrewd mind, adventurous spirit, and clever wit
will definitely keep the reader entertained. Jane is perfectly imperfect, and stumbles frequently
into mishaps and mayhem, taking us along for the ride. The mystery is multi-faceted and compelling,
and the characters all shine. Historical people, places, and events from Gilded Age New
York are shown in vivid detail.
This was an enjoyable read from start to finish. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book from Minotaur Books for review in Historical Novels Review Magazine. My opinions are my own.
of Broadway. This is the fourth book in the Jane Prescott series. It can be read as a standalone, but
events from previous books are discussed in this story, so reading the first three books would be beneficial. In 1914 New York City, Jane Prescott, lady's maid to Louise Tyler, is back in New York after a trip to Europe. Louise has invested in a Broadway Show and Jane begins accompanying her to
events and rehearsals as a chaperone. Leo Hirschfeld, Jane's romance from the previous summer,
has written this Broadway musical. He has also made some choices that are hard for Jane to accept.
Then a well-known producer is killed in a bathroom of the famous Rector's. Tabloid reporter
Michael Behan is on the case. Will Jane help him find the killer?
Mariah Fredericks takes us on a sometimes hilarious journey into the world of Broadway and
the elite circles of 1914 New York City. The author's wry humor will keep you chuckling as we
uncover more secrets and clues, and we learn that especially in show business, things aren't always as
they seem. Jane is an engaging protagonist. Her shrewd mind, adventurous spirit, and clever wit
will definitely keep the reader entertained. Jane is perfectly imperfect, and stumbles frequently
into mishaps and mayhem, taking us along for the ride. The mystery is multi-faceted and compelling,
and the characters all shine. Historical people, places, and events from Gilded Age New
York are shown in vivid detail.
This was an enjoyable read from start to finish. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book from Minotaur Books for review in Historical Novels Review Magazine. My opinions are my own.
June 7, 2021
This is the second Jane Prescott book for me, I believe. It is rich in historical detail of New York life during the gilded age with particular focus on the theatre of the age where world events may be forgotten for a time, but this book ends in the announcements of the coming World War I.
There is a murder to be solved, lessons in love and rejection to be learned and wardrobes to care for in Jane's work as lady's maid.
If you have no great interest in the theatre this book may not hold your interest. It was hard for me to get through it all as backstage drama does not excite me.
Library Loan
There is a murder to be solved, lessons in love and rejection to be learned and wardrobes to care for in Jane's work as lady's maid.
If you have no great interest in the theatre this book may not hold your interest. It was hard for me to get through it all as backstage drama does not excite me.
Library Loan
April 26, 2021
The blurb gives a good idea of the plot. Give it a look.
Some thoughts:
I thought this was the author's best book yet. The writing was smooth, the storytelling worked from start to finish. It seemed to me that our main characters (Jane, Louise, Leo) had more emotional complexity. All of these are signs that the author has really settled into her world.
I loved the theater setting--we got a good look at what it takes to put on a show. All of the showbiz people were given enough personality to take them beyond being 'types'. Even Sidney Warburton, the murdered producer, had enough complexity to escape being a cardboard figure.
I am going to abandon predicting what the next book will reveal as I failed miserably in guessing this book's big revelations after reading Death of an American Beauty.
BTW, while this book can be read as a stand-alone, the reader will get just that little bit more from it by having read the previous book.
Now starts the wait for the next one. Sigh...
Some thoughts:
I thought this was the author's best book yet. The writing was smooth, the storytelling worked from start to finish. It seemed to me that our main characters (Jane, Louise, Leo) had more emotional complexity. All of these are signs that the author has really settled into her world.
I loved the theater setting--we got a good look at what it takes to put on a show. All of the showbiz people were given enough personality to take them beyond being 'types'. Even Sidney Warburton, the murdered producer, had enough complexity to escape being a cardboard figure.
I am going to abandon predicting what the next book will reveal as I failed miserably in guessing this book's big revelations after reading Death of an American Beauty.
BTW, while this book can be read as a stand-alone, the reader will get just that little bit more from it by having read the previous book.
Now starts the wait for the next one. Sigh...
Read
March 18, 2021A very entertaining book. The story takes place during the summer of 1914. Jane Prescott is back in New York with Tyler after an elegant wedding in Europe. Some days after her return, Jane learns that her partner Leo Hirschfeld has married a special girl. This girl is part of the cast of her new Broadway musical. Jane is introduced to the scandalous world of Broadway as she accompanies Louise Tyler to her rehearsals. However, Jane realizes that the world for Broadway is full of rivalries, secret romances, and shady business practices. One day, Sidney Warburton, an abusive producer, appears murdered, and the list of suspects is very long. Jane wants to investigate and find out who is behind this terrible crime. It is a book that captured my attention from the first page. I liked that the author described New York City at that time. It is undoubtedly a time when people struggled to get ahead. I liked Jane because she was a girl committed to solving crime and, above all doing the right thing. I thank NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and Minotaur Books for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
September 7, 2021
This series seems to me to be more period fare and Jane Prescott think pieces than they do mystery or who-dun-it. And they are easy reading. Also have some various era eyes into old New York too.
But that's the base problem for my interest. Too much class and situation positing and not enough anything else. Plus this time period and place just doesn't at all intrigue. And most especially in the eyes of the wealthy entitled. The types of people who travel for 9 months at a time in Europe just to go to a wedding!
Well, I got to book #4. And this one was most probably the more interesting stage/ show world connected plot of that group. But I won't read any more of these. Returning and finished this one was a chore completed only because all my others were non-fiction. And from one or two of those, the stories were severe enough to "take a break".
And although she writes well, I really don't much like how she is progressing Jane. Or actually, Jane's impetus itself in her contemplation attitude. And I don't like her girlfriend Anna, at all. Criminal and mean. People who bomb and cause others' deaths are murderers. Not friend material for me under any foxhole location.
But that's the base problem for my interest. Too much class and situation positing and not enough anything else. Plus this time period and place just doesn't at all intrigue. And most especially in the eyes of the wealthy entitled. The types of people who travel for 9 months at a time in Europe just to go to a wedding!
Well, I got to book #4. And this one was most probably the more interesting stage/ show world connected plot of that group. But I won't read any more of these. Returning and finished this one was a chore completed only because all my others were non-fiction. And from one or two of those, the stories were severe enough to "take a break".
And although she writes well, I really don't much like how she is progressing Jane. Or actually, Jane's impetus itself in her contemplation attitude. And I don't like her girlfriend Anna, at all. Criminal and mean. People who bomb and cause others' deaths are murderers. Not friend material for me under any foxhole location.
March 28, 2021
Lady's maid Jane Prescott has to chaperone her mistress to observe the preparations and rehearsals of a Broadway show. Not only does she need to deal with observing her former beau with his new questionable wife she also discovers scandal around every corner.
I enjoyed the early 20th century setting and interesting bits of history that were included in the story. Well written characters will have you loving some and disliking others. Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
I enjoyed the early 20th century setting and interesting bits of history that were included in the story. Well written characters will have you loving some and disliking others. Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
November 19, 2020
This is the fourth book in the Jane Prescott series, and it's my favorite so far. Not for the mystery—I'm actually not a big mysteries buff—but for the characters, the setting, and the first-person narration. Jane, the astute lady's maid with a knack of being in the wrong place at the right time, tells her story with just the right dash of snark amid her sagacity. She's definitely the person you'd want to sit next to a formal gathering for the simple pleasure of getting her opinion of the goings-on. She continues to evolve, just as she has during the previous installments. Interestingly, so does her employer, Louise, who grows to become more than a timid, proper society lady. Manhattan in the days just prior to the beginning of World War I really comes alive, as do all the secondary characters. And while I'd suggest starting with the first of the Jane Prescott books, A Death of No Importance, you won't be lost if you begin here instead. I can't wait for book number five!
Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, for providing me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2021
After their trip to Europe, the Tylers return to New York City and Jane discovers that her dancing partner has married a chorus girl. Louise Tyler becomes a sponsor for a Broadway production and Jane does various needed tasks for the crew. During a dinner party, the producer is murdered. Lots of twists and turns until Jane solves the murder. This is the fourth book in the series and I didn't enjoy it as much as the others -- too much drama and not enough time devoted to Jane and her thought process.
July 4, 2021
I love this series about lady’s maid Jane Prescott in Gilded Age New York. The author’s research really shows; as this mystery opens in summer 1914, Jane and the reader are absorbed by a murder set in the exciting, competitive, rambunctious theater world. By the end, after the murderer of a crude, self-centered theater producer has been revealed, we’ve learned a lot about the New York theater of the time, and World War I has broken out.
Fredericks does a good job throughout keeping the focus firmly on the insular, cut-throat world of a Broadway musical as it’s about to open, but interjecting news of the wider world as Jane passes newspaper offices posting screaming red headlines in their windows about the brewing war in Europe.
She also reports on strife between workers and robber barons like the Rockefellers. I like the characters of Jane and her employers, the Tylers, and her fraught relationship with her best friend Anna, possibly knee deep in illegal activities on behalf of worker’s rights. Jane also has interesting friendships with a married reporter, Michael, and one of the suspects in this case, a former beau and music writer, Leo.
Fredericks opens the book with Jane saying she’s gone to the opening of the musical “Cats” with her grandson and great-granddaughter, which she was not dazzled by, but as it took place in the theater where much of this case unfolded back in 1914, it brought back memories of her time there, and worked as a great segue into the past murder case. She reminisces with Leo, who is still alive and a friend - but who finds the idea of a musical about cats ridiculous! I googled, the show premiered on Broadway in 1982, so I assume Jane lives a long, full life, and has many more mysteries to come. The author teases at future stories to come in the epilogue - I will definitely want to read those!
Fredericks does a good job throughout keeping the focus firmly on the insular, cut-throat world of a Broadway musical as it’s about to open, but interjecting news of the wider world as Jane passes newspaper offices posting screaming red headlines in their windows about the brewing war in Europe.
She also reports on strife between workers and robber barons like the Rockefellers. I like the characters of Jane and her employers, the Tylers, and her fraught relationship with her best friend Anna, possibly knee deep in illegal activities on behalf of worker’s rights. Jane also has interesting friendships with a married reporter, Michael, and one of the suspects in this case, a former beau and music writer, Leo.
Fredericks opens the book with Jane saying she’s gone to the opening of the musical “Cats” with her grandson and great-granddaughter, which she was not dazzled by, but as it took place in the theater where much of this case unfolded back in 1914, it brought back memories of her time there, and worked as a great segue into the past murder case. She reminisces with Leo, who is still alive and a friend - but who finds the idea of a musical about cats ridiculous! I googled, the show premiered on Broadway in 1982, so I assume Jane lives a long, full life, and has many more mysteries to come. The author teases at future stories to come in the epilogue - I will definitely want to read those!
May 20, 2024
The big reveal was happening and I was not aware. It caught me so off guard I had to go back a bit to see if I missed the lead up but I had not. So, unexpected?
I liked that everyone was not as closed-minded this time but too much interpersonal angst not enough happy friendship parts for me.
I liked that everyone was not as closed-minded this time but too much interpersonal angst not enough happy friendship parts for me.
March 29, 2024
I owe all these books a higher rating. I’m obsessed and on the cusp of writing fan mail. Fredericks’ blog says she has written two more since this book and I hope she releases them soon
March 30, 2021
Many thanks to Minotaur and Netgalley for sending me this book early. This book will be published on 4/13.
The introduction to this book immediately filled my eyes with tears. To have an author acknowledge what the theater community is going through right now in her book dedication was really special.
This is the 4th in a series and I haven’t read the previous three but I think I should go back and start at the very beginning. There are a lot of characters in this book. Like a lot a lot. I needed a map to keep it all straight but I think had I not been new to this series that may have been easier to navigate. The characters that seemed new to the series were very well developed but there are just so many!
Jane is thrown into the world of wardrobe and it filled my heart completely to read about her experiences. This feels like a classic whodunit mystery and Jane is so likable and wow is she observant!
The introduction to this book immediately filled my eyes with tears. To have an author acknowledge what the theater community is going through right now in her book dedication was really special.
This is the 4th in a series and I haven’t read the previous three but I think I should go back and start at the very beginning. There are a lot of characters in this book. Like a lot a lot. I needed a map to keep it all straight but I think had I not been new to this series that may have been easier to navigate. The characters that seemed new to the series were very well developed but there are just so many!
Jane is thrown into the world of wardrobe and it filled my heart completely to read about her experiences. This feels like a classic whodunit mystery and Jane is so likable and wow is she observant!
April 13, 2021
Thank you to @minotaur_books for a gifted copy of Death of a Showman by Mariah Frederick's. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book. It checks a number of boxes for favorites:
Historical ✔
Mystery ✔
Cozy feel ✔
Likable characters ✔
By the time I had reached the halfway point I had already ordered the first three books from the series.
In the summer of 1914, Louise Tyler has decided to invest in a Broadway show. Jane Prescott, Louise's lady's maid, is asked to chaperone Mrs. Tyler on her daily visits to the theater. Soon disaster strikes as the director is murdered before the show opens. The killer has to be found but the show must go on.
There is a web of characters and each has their own secrets. Who is being honest? Who is lying? Who is hiding something? At times I was surprised at how Jane's character seemed to be very modern when she would speak her mind. She is independent and intelligent.
This is book 4 in the Jane Prescott Novel series. It would work as a standalone but immediately I wanted to read the earlier books to understand how Jane had gotten to this point in the story.
I am a huge fan of author's notes in Historical Fiction and there are some author's notes in the Acknowledgements.
Historical Fiction
Release Date: April 13, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. It checks a number of boxes for favorites:
Historical ✔
Mystery ✔
Cozy feel ✔
Likable characters ✔
By the time I had reached the halfway point I had already ordered the first three books from the series.
In the summer of 1914, Louise Tyler has decided to invest in a Broadway show. Jane Prescott, Louise's lady's maid, is asked to chaperone Mrs. Tyler on her daily visits to the theater. Soon disaster strikes as the director is murdered before the show opens. The killer has to be found but the show must go on.
There is a web of characters and each has their own secrets. Who is being honest? Who is lying? Who is hiding something? At times I was surprised at how Jane's character seemed to be very modern when she would speak her mind. She is independent and intelligent.
This is book 4 in the Jane Prescott Novel series. It would work as a standalone but immediately I wanted to read the earlier books to understand how Jane had gotten to this point in the story.
I am a huge fan of author's notes in Historical Fiction and there are some author's notes in the Acknowledgements.
Historical Fiction
Release Date: April 13, 2021
August 7, 2021
Well-researched and well-written, with engaging characters and a decent mystery (not sure if I buy into its resolution from a pure motive standpoint though, but I get it from a character standpoint). I’m also still not sure if Jane, as a maid, would be part of all of the action that she is—a bit too much downstairs mixing with the upstairs crowd I think—but the stories nonetheless are good enough for me to overlook that.
May 10, 2021
It read like a book written to be a series, and sure enough, it is. I enjoyed it, but didn't give up any sleep to get through it and solve the mystery. It's a fine read - just not worthy of my 5 star group.
March 23, 2021
The excitement and drama of the theater thrummed through the pages of Fredericks latest book featuring Jane Prescott, a bright, hard-working and inquisitive woman with a sense of justice. It was fascinating to see into the world of Broadway in 1914 and it provided so many great characters/suspects. Jane and Louise have changed and grown through the books. Louise, in particular, was almost unrecognizable from the character introduced in the first book (fear not, you need not have read the others to understand this book but it is interesting to see the changes).
Fredericks has used historical detail and issues of the time to develop a compelling story and nuanced mystery but also fit well with the characters she has created. I have really enjoyed her writing. There were funny moments and poignant ones as well. It was very appropriate that at the end of the novel as Jane and companions leave the enthralling world of the theater they come out into the real world and suffer a shock to the system as they discover the announcement of war had broken out in Europe. The good books do that to the reader. At the end it is a jolt when you leave the world of fiction created by the author and return to the real world. This one achieves it.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Fredericks has used historical detail and issues of the time to develop a compelling story and nuanced mystery but also fit well with the characters she has created. I have really enjoyed her writing. There were funny moments and poignant ones as well. It was very appropriate that at the end of the novel as Jane and companions leave the enthralling world of the theater they come out into the real world and suffer a shock to the system as they discover the announcement of war had broken out in Europe. The good books do that to the reader. At the end it is a jolt when you leave the world of fiction created by the author and return to the real world. This one achieves it.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
July 18, 2021
Another brilliant addition to one of the strongest historical mystery series out there. Fredericks does a perfect job of recreating New York of the 1910s, populating it with a fascinating array of characters - particularly theatre people in DEATH OF A SHOWMAN. Jane Prescott is a smart, sensitive protagonist and the mystery elements are flawless. I cannot wait for the next read in this Edgar-award nominated series.
June 22, 2022
3.5. Entertaining, fun, a bit of it was less interesting, still looking forward to the next one.
December 1, 2021
Didn’t like the writing and the story was so so.
October 17, 2021
This was a library book , I will still give my honest opinion. I loved the time period. I enjoyed the behind the scenes of the theater and I loved the intrigue. I highly recommend this book and the rest of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2021
Whimsical, suspenseful, and compelling!
Death of a Showman is an amusing, nuanced, surprising tale that takes you back to Manhattan during 1914 and into the life of lady’s maid Jane Prescott who, after spending a year in Europe, returns to find her former dance partner and potential paramour, Leo Hirschfield married and rehearsing a new Broadway musical, a show that ends up with more problems than just money woes when the producer suddenly turns up dead, and everyone behind the curtain seems to have a motive for murder.
The prose is vivid and authentic. The characters are astute, multi-layered, and likeable. And the plot develops nicely and has just the right mix of misdirection, deduction, clues, suspects, mishaps, drama, and murder.
Overall, Death of a Showman is a light, quick, enjoyable tale by Fredericks that I thoroughly enjoyed, and that is without a doubt another satisfying addition to the Jane Prescott series.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Death of a Showman is an amusing, nuanced, surprising tale that takes you back to Manhattan during 1914 and into the life of lady’s maid Jane Prescott who, after spending a year in Europe, returns to find her former dance partner and potential paramour, Leo Hirschfield married and rehearsing a new Broadway musical, a show that ends up with more problems than just money woes when the producer suddenly turns up dead, and everyone behind the curtain seems to have a motive for murder.
The prose is vivid and authentic. The characters are astute, multi-layered, and likeable. And the plot develops nicely and has just the right mix of misdirection, deduction, clues, suspects, mishaps, drama, and murder.
Overall, Death of a Showman is a light, quick, enjoyable tale by Fredericks that I thoroughly enjoyed, and that is without a doubt another satisfying addition to the Jane Prescott series.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2021
Lady's maid Jane Prescott's friendship with newly-married songwriter Leo leads her mistress, Louise Tyler, to invest in his new show. Louise attends rehearsals because she's fascinated; Jane to chaperone her and to help out with the costumes. When the arrogant producer of the show is murdered during a cast dinner at Rector's restaurant, Leo is one of the leading suspects. He's also the only hope the show has of opening successfully. As World War I looms in Europe (the characters may not realize it, but the readers do), Jane finds herself preoccupied by the doings of the cast of the new musical, and her own feelings about Leo.
February 23, 2021
Not everyone connects with every book and this was one for me. This was a DNF for me and review is for 29% read. Louise Tyler and her made go to a party and a theater producer is murdered. There was a lot of detail given before the actual murder took place. A lot of detail thrown out of background on the characters that I didn't feel needed. I had hard time relating to the characters. Was not wowed.
July 16, 2021
A cute murder mystery romp. The storyline was fun and a great mystery to read. I found the characters mostly cookie cutter and the writing at times was subpar, but for the most part this page-turner kept me smiling. Nothing out of the ordinary, but if you're looking for another fun themed murder-mystery, you're in luck. I admit that it kept me guessing until the end and it was not an easy puzzle to unravel. A fun book to throw into your list.
May 11, 2021
I like the mystery mixed with historical fiction, but the prologue and epilogue keep me hooked because they hint to the future without giving away what happens to the main character in the present. Crafty way to keep readers coming back
July 7, 2021
Slow to start and a disappointing ending but the middle was great.
April 8, 2021
I love this vibrant, lively, insanely readable series, a series that takes unexpected turns with its characters but still hews to the traditional norms of historical mystery fiction. The first book in the series, A Death of No Importance, was a fabulous origin story, where ladies’ maid Jane Prescott takes on the nouveau riche Benchley family in the first decade of the twentieth century. The books are set in New York City and the Benchley girls are viewed as rich upstarts, and Jane’s special charge, Louise, is shy and gauche and seems to fit in nowhere.
Louise finds her prince, however, an equally shy but old money member of New York society, William Tyler. This is the fourth book in the series, and Louise and William have returned from an extended trip to Europe when they are visited by an old friend of Jane’s – Leo Hirschfield. He’s putting on a Broadway show and wants backers. Louise is drawn like a moth to a flame and William insists that Jane accompany her to the theater, as a chaperone amongst the wild denizens of backstage Broadway.
Louise’s infatuation with the theater proves to be a bit of a divide for the devoted couple. Jane is uncomfortable as Leo, whom she had become very fond of in the last book (Death of an American Beauty), turns out to be married to a voluptuous chorus girl, who of course has a part in the show. Jane is quickly put to work backstage (as a bonus avoiding Leo), and she gets to know not only the ins and outs of running a show, but the ins and outs of the various jealousies and tensions that are coursing through the theater.
When the producer, an exceedingly unpleasant man named Sidney Warburton, is murdered when the company is out as a sumptuous dinner one evening, the show starts to fall apart as tensions are laid bare. The suspect pool appears to contain many members of the company, including Leo.
Jane’s smarts as a detective and as a human being are paired with a gift for observation and an ability to discern motives and connections in the people around her. This book to me was one of the more traditional so far in Frederick’s strong series, but it’s set apart by several things. One is the relationship between Jane and Leo. As readers, we know the relationship continues into old age, but it’s not clear exactly how that happens. It’s a central mystery of the series and Fredericks is very skillfully drawing this thread through the books.
One of the other things that sets the books apart is the look it takes at women’s lives. There’s no judgment, no anachronisms, but Fredericks finds as much interest in Jane’s place as a lady’s maid as she does in Mrs. Tyler unexpectedly finding an interest for herself – the theater. She looks backstage at the actors, the costumer, and the quiet woman who functions as the stage manager. There are all kinds of choices in this life, Fredericks seems to be saying, and none of them should be dismissed or disregarded.
Ultimately, the solution to the murder lies in character, and the traits Jane uncovers as she questions folks backstage could only have been discovered by her, with her combination of intelligence and access. The solution is satisfying. Then, like any narrative genius, one who leaves her readers wanting more, Fredericks ends the book with the outbreak of WWI and another question in the air about Leo and Jane’s relationship. Greedily, I am already ready for book five.
Louise finds her prince, however, an equally shy but old money member of New York society, William Tyler. This is the fourth book in the series, and Louise and William have returned from an extended trip to Europe when they are visited by an old friend of Jane’s – Leo Hirschfield. He’s putting on a Broadway show and wants backers. Louise is drawn like a moth to a flame and William insists that Jane accompany her to the theater, as a chaperone amongst the wild denizens of backstage Broadway.
Louise’s infatuation with the theater proves to be a bit of a divide for the devoted couple. Jane is uncomfortable as Leo, whom she had become very fond of in the last book (Death of an American Beauty), turns out to be married to a voluptuous chorus girl, who of course has a part in the show. Jane is quickly put to work backstage (as a bonus avoiding Leo), and she gets to know not only the ins and outs of running a show, but the ins and outs of the various jealousies and tensions that are coursing through the theater.
When the producer, an exceedingly unpleasant man named Sidney Warburton, is murdered when the company is out as a sumptuous dinner one evening, the show starts to fall apart as tensions are laid bare. The suspect pool appears to contain many members of the company, including Leo.
Jane’s smarts as a detective and as a human being are paired with a gift for observation and an ability to discern motives and connections in the people around her. This book to me was one of the more traditional so far in Frederick’s strong series, but it’s set apart by several things. One is the relationship between Jane and Leo. As readers, we know the relationship continues into old age, but it’s not clear exactly how that happens. It’s a central mystery of the series and Fredericks is very skillfully drawing this thread through the books.
One of the other things that sets the books apart is the look it takes at women’s lives. There’s no judgment, no anachronisms, but Fredericks finds as much interest in Jane’s place as a lady’s maid as she does in Mrs. Tyler unexpectedly finding an interest for herself – the theater. She looks backstage at the actors, the costumer, and the quiet woman who functions as the stage manager. There are all kinds of choices in this life, Fredericks seems to be saying, and none of them should be dismissed or disregarded.
Ultimately, the solution to the murder lies in character, and the traits Jane uncovers as she questions folks backstage could only have been discovered by her, with her combination of intelligence and access. The solution is satisfying. Then, like any narrative genius, one who leaves her readers wanting more, Fredericks ends the book with the outbreak of WWI and another question in the air about Leo and Jane’s relationship. Greedily, I am already ready for book five.
April 12, 2021
Death of a Showman is the fourth glittering book in the Jane Prescott series by Mariah Fredericks. I've read books two and three and loved them both; that being said, this one is by far my favorite! Set in Gilded Age New York in 1914, the world balances on the edge of war, adding depth to a story of an extremely entertaining mystery containing much wit. This mystery stands alone, but you will enjoy it even more if you are a bit familiar with the leading characters.
Lady's maid Jane Prescott has just returned with Louise and William Tyler from a nine-month visit to Europe where they attended a society wedding. She finds out that her dear friend and dancing partner Leo Hirschfeld is getting ready for his first Broadway musical...oh, and he got married to a chorus girl while Jane was gone. Considering there were some feelings between Jane and Leo, she's not exactly thrilled. Louise decides to invest in Leo's show, and William insists that Jane chaperone her. Broadway is a whole new world to them, filled with affairs, bitter rivalries and secrets. When Sidney Warburton, the show's hateful producer, ends up being murdered, there is no shortage of suspects, chief among them Leo. Can Jane and tabloid reporter Michael Behan figure out who the killer is, before they strike once again?
This was such a fun mystery! The performers and the people who worked at the theater were such an entertaining bunch, especially the lead dancers who were married, the comedy star and Leo's new wife Violet, whose claim to fame is slowly walking down stairs while dressed provacatively. Sidney was a terrible and unlikable man, and you can totally understand the entire cast wanting to kill him. It was good to see Jane and Leo reunited, despite the chasm that has deepened since Leo swore he'd never married. (When Jane reminded Leo of that, his response was, "I forgot"!) I also loved Jane's relationship with reporter Michael Behan. I can't quite figure out how they really feel about each other, especially since he is married and his wife is expecting. He refers to his unborn child as Tib, short for The Infant Behan. I loved the letters they wrote back and forth while Jane was in Europe; they are incredibly witty and were a favorite part of the story. I enjoyed seeing Louise mature as a wife and backer of the show and her relationship with William. All of these characters are memorable, but of course Jane stands above them all. I have a feeling there's more in store for Jane besides being a lady's maid. I can't wait to see where life takes her!
Special shout out to the cover artist for the beautiful artwork.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Lady's maid Jane Prescott has just returned with Louise and William Tyler from a nine-month visit to Europe where they attended a society wedding. She finds out that her dear friend and dancing partner Leo Hirschfeld is getting ready for his first Broadway musical...oh, and he got married to a chorus girl while Jane was gone. Considering there were some feelings between Jane and Leo, she's not exactly thrilled. Louise decides to invest in Leo's show, and William insists that Jane chaperone her. Broadway is a whole new world to them, filled with affairs, bitter rivalries and secrets. When Sidney Warburton, the show's hateful producer, ends up being murdered, there is no shortage of suspects, chief among them Leo. Can Jane and tabloid reporter Michael Behan figure out who the killer is, before they strike once again?
This was such a fun mystery! The performers and the people who worked at the theater were such an entertaining bunch, especially the lead dancers who were married, the comedy star and Leo's new wife Violet, whose claim to fame is slowly walking down stairs while dressed provacatively. Sidney was a terrible and unlikable man, and you can totally understand the entire cast wanting to kill him. It was good to see Jane and Leo reunited, despite the chasm that has deepened since Leo swore he'd never married. (When Jane reminded Leo of that, his response was, "I forgot"!) I also loved Jane's relationship with reporter Michael Behan. I can't quite figure out how they really feel about each other, especially since he is married and his wife is expecting. He refers to his unborn child as Tib, short for The Infant Behan. I loved the letters they wrote back and forth while Jane was in Europe; they are incredibly witty and were a favorite part of the story. I enjoyed seeing Louise mature as a wife and backer of the show and her relationship with William. All of these characters are memorable, but of course Jane stands above them all. I have a feeling there's more in store for Jane besides being a lady's maid. I can't wait to see where life takes her!
Special shout out to the cover artist for the beautiful artwork.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
June 24, 2021
Is there a setting you’d like to see more often in books?
Behind the scenes in the theater (or the movie industry in more contemporary works) is something I can’t get enough of, and it’s a setting that lends itself well to thrillers and mysteries. The shady, not quite above board transactions, the backstabbing, the willingness to do whatever it takes to land a coveted spot…All of those scenarios are present in Death of a Showman by Mariah Fredericks and from Minotaur Books in the fourth installment of the Jane Prescott series.
As usual, Jane is one of the few characters who has a steady head on her shoulders, seeing both what’s presented and what’s behind the curtain in her role as lady’s maid. When her employer invests in a Broadway show, Jane’s suddenly immersed in a world of actors and singers while also being brought into close contact with a former love interest, Leo, who is now married to the star of the show. Keeping her own jealousy in check, Jane tries to understand what led Leo to marry his new bride while also searching for clues after a producer is murdered. With both herself and the show in danger, Jane once again sets out to solve the case.
While reading the previous novels isn’t a necessity, the background information gives this one more of an emotional impact. Leo’s actions, though questionable, were very in character, which helps the reader more fully feel Jane’s heartache. She feels like she plays a more active role in this book, her feelings and own personal crises on display and dissected, adding to her humanity. Whereas she was merely entertaining before, now she felt multidimensional. The setting also largely added to my enjoyment of this book, it being a personal favorite, and one that added splendidly to both the murder and highlighting what life was like in this time period right before World War One would soon change so much.
Thank you to Minotaur Books for a complimentary copy. This did not impact my review.
Behind the scenes in the theater (or the movie industry in more contemporary works) is something I can’t get enough of, and it’s a setting that lends itself well to thrillers and mysteries. The shady, not quite above board transactions, the backstabbing, the willingness to do whatever it takes to land a coveted spot…All of those scenarios are present in Death of a Showman by Mariah Fredericks and from Minotaur Books in the fourth installment of the Jane Prescott series.
As usual, Jane is one of the few characters who has a steady head on her shoulders, seeing both what’s presented and what’s behind the curtain in her role as lady’s maid. When her employer invests in a Broadway show, Jane’s suddenly immersed in a world of actors and singers while also being brought into close contact with a former love interest, Leo, who is now married to the star of the show. Keeping her own jealousy in check, Jane tries to understand what led Leo to marry his new bride while also searching for clues after a producer is murdered. With both herself and the show in danger, Jane once again sets out to solve the case.
While reading the previous novels isn’t a necessity, the background information gives this one more of an emotional impact. Leo’s actions, though questionable, were very in character, which helps the reader more fully feel Jane’s heartache. She feels like she plays a more active role in this book, her feelings and own personal crises on display and dissected, adding to her humanity. Whereas she was merely entertaining before, now she felt multidimensional. The setting also largely added to my enjoyment of this book, it being a personal favorite, and one that added splendidly to both the murder and highlighting what life was like in this time period right before World War One would soon change so much.
Thank you to Minotaur Books for a complimentary copy. This did not impact my review.
December 8, 2020
Mariah Fredericks has such a wonderful way of phrasing things, very clever and witty. She effortlessly pulls in historical details and breathes a lot of life into her characters...they really shine. Not that I like all of them...we're not supposed to...but they shine nonetheless. Death of a Showman is the fourth in the Jane Prescott series and is absolutely delightful! You know what it's like to be bedazzled by something which you cannot do yourself yet that person makes it appear effortless? That's what this felt like to me.
In 1914 New York, Jane is Lady's Maid to Louise. Jane's wry sense of humour is fabulous as she finds herself backed up against the wall and in pickles and muddles of all sorts. Louise is one of my favourite characters. Leo has made some rather interesting choices which consequentially affect several other people and the storylines. When dastardly Sidney is killed, not many sympathize. No one is how they appear and there are lots of fun bits to work out. Seeking murder AND mayhem? This is your next read.
Much of the setting is a Broadway Theater which is intriguing. The characters are associated with the theater in one way or the other from patrons to actors to those behind the scenes, even a dog! The mysteries are delicious and riveting but to me the characters equally steal the show, even those who were a bit repugnant.
Historical Fiction readers, do pick this one up! The epilogue and acknowledgements were wonderful, too. What a treat.
My sincere thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this irresistible book in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated.
In 1914 New York, Jane is Lady's Maid to Louise. Jane's wry sense of humour is fabulous as she finds herself backed up against the wall and in pickles and muddles of all sorts. Louise is one of my favourite characters. Leo has made some rather interesting choices which consequentially affect several other people and the storylines. When dastardly Sidney is killed, not many sympathize. No one is how they appear and there are lots of fun bits to work out. Seeking murder AND mayhem? This is your next read.
Much of the setting is a Broadway Theater which is intriguing. The characters are associated with the theater in one way or the other from patrons to actors to those behind the scenes, even a dog! The mysteries are delicious and riveting but to me the characters equally steal the show, even those who were a bit repugnant.
Historical Fiction readers, do pick this one up! The epilogue and acknowledgements were wonderful, too. What a treat.
My sincere thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this irresistible book in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated.
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