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Quaker Midwife Mystery #6
Taken Too Soon
Quaker midwife Rose Carroll must turn her investigative skills on her own family when a young woman’s murder stuns a New England community . . .
Following a long betrothal, midwife Rose Carroll and her beloved David are finally celebrating their marriage with friends and relatives, when a most disturbing telegram interrupts the festivities: the young ward of Rose’s aunt has suffered a mysterious death, and Rose’s help is needed urgently on Cape Cod. Reluctantly agreeing to mix her honeymoon plans with murder, Rose embarks on an investigation that will expose family secrets and a community’s bigotry.
As Rose does her best to comfort her aunt in her loss and also learn as much as possible about the poor young victim’s death, she discovers that each new clue points to a confounding list of suspects: a close friend of the victim who may have harbored secret resentments, an estranged brother of David’s with an unsavory reputation, and the son of a Native American midwife who supposedly led the young woman astray. And as Rose grows closer to identifying the perpetrator, the solution will rattle her assumptions about her own family and faith . . .
Following a long betrothal, midwife Rose Carroll and her beloved David are finally celebrating their marriage with friends and relatives, when a most disturbing telegram interrupts the festivities: the young ward of Rose’s aunt has suffered a mysterious death, and Rose’s help is needed urgently on Cape Cod. Reluctantly agreeing to mix her honeymoon plans with murder, Rose embarks on an investigation that will expose family secrets and a community’s bigotry.
As Rose does her best to comfort her aunt in her loss and also learn as much as possible about the poor young victim’s death, she discovers that each new clue points to a confounding list of suspects: a close friend of the victim who may have harbored secret resentments, an estranged brother of David’s with an unsavory reputation, and the son of a Native American midwife who supposedly led the young woman astray. And as Rose grows closer to identifying the perpetrator, the solution will rattle her assumptions about her own family and faith . . .
226 pages, Paperback
First published September 8, 2020
16 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Edith Maxwell
47 books582 followersEdith Maxwell is an Agatha-winning mystery author who writes the Local Foods Foods Mysteries as well as the historical Quaker Midwife Mysteries, featuring a Quaker midwife sleuth in 1888.
As Maddie Day, she writes the Country Store Mysteries set in southern Indiana, and the Cozy
Capers Book Group Mysteries.
Her short stories have appeared in twenty juried anthologies and magazines. She is active in Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime.
Edith, a fourth-generation Californian, has two grown sons and lives in an antique house north of Boston with her beau, their energizer kitten, a small organic garden, and some impressive garden statuary. She worked as a software technical writer for almost two decades but now writes fiction full time.
As Maddie Day, she writes the Country Store Mysteries set in southern Indiana, and the Cozy
Capers Book Group Mysteries.
Her short stories have appeared in twenty juried anthologies and magazines. She is active in Mystery Writers of America and Sisters in Crime.
Edith, a fourth-generation Californian, has two grown sons and lives in an antique house north of Boston with her beau, their energizer kitten, a small organic garden, and some impressive garden statuary. She worked as a software technical writer for almost two decades but now writes fiction full time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 22, 2020
I was pleasantly surprised with Taken too Soon by Edith Maxwell. I read a lot of cozy mysteries, but not many Quaker or Amish ones. I had read an Amish cozy a few months back and some of the reasons it was off putting to me was how sickly sweet everyone was, the protagonist was passive-aggressive to her boyfriend, and the murder was super easy to solve.
While the murder was easy for me to solve in Taken too Soon, no one was overly sweet, the protagonist realized there are evil people in the world, and Rose treats her husband with respect and love.
I was actually really pleased at how competent and intelligent Rose came across. In other cozy mysteries the sleuth will not even speculate about people and their motives, only discovering a clue when it practically trips her. Rose was theorizing about children out of wedlock and nasty men who molest and rape (although that word is never mentioned) young girls. I was so taken aback by this that I even mentioned it to my husband.
And it was really strange that while reading Taken Too Soon I felt myself slow down and get more peaceful. I don’t know if it was the Thees and other types of speech that I’m not accustomed to reading or the beautiful descriptions and great character development, but I didn’t feel myself reading quickly through this book, and yet it was a fast paced story.
I am so happy I read Taken Too Soon and look forward to more books in the Quaker Midwife Mystery series. If you haven’t read any in the series yet, you may want to start with book one, Delivering the Truth, although Maxwell writes so well that you won’t be lost if you start with a book later in the series.
While the murder was easy for me to solve in Taken too Soon, no one was overly sweet, the protagonist realized there are evil people in the world, and Rose treats her husband with respect and love.
I was actually really pleased at how competent and intelligent Rose came across. In other cozy mysteries the sleuth will not even speculate about people and their motives, only discovering a clue when it practically trips her. Rose was theorizing about children out of wedlock and nasty men who molest and rape (although that word is never mentioned) young girls. I was so taken aback by this that I even mentioned it to my husband.
And it was really strange that while reading Taken Too Soon I felt myself slow down and get more peaceful. I don’t know if it was the Thees and other types of speech that I’m not accustomed to reading or the beautiful descriptions and great character development, but I didn’t feel myself reading quickly through this book, and yet it was a fast paced story.
I am so happy I read Taken Too Soon and look forward to more books in the Quaker Midwife Mystery series. If you haven’t read any in the series yet, you may want to start with book one, Delivering the Truth, although Maxwell writes so well that you won’t be lost if you start with a book later in the series.
September 8, 2020
To me, Taken Too Soon is head and shoulders above the previous books in this series. While I have enjoyed the previous novels about Midwife Rose Carroll, I truly enjoyed this one the most. The characters are defined with excellence, and historical references and inclusions such as Helen Keller are seamlessly noted as part of this 1889 setting. The vocabulary of the day is used, and even the weather is indicative of the general mood of the mystery. The mystery itself was not easy to solve, and I struggled between two “pet” suspects.
Rose Carroll and David Doge have had a longer engagement than most couples for various reasons, but their day has finally arrived. It was delightful to read about the joys of their special day as conducted at the Lawrence Friends Meeting House where her parents live. They will soon be leaving for their wedding night before they go to visit Rose’s elderly aunts, Tilly and Dru, who were unable to travel. One of their surprises is that David’s estranged brother Currie arrived at the reception. He now lives nearby where they will be staying for their honeymoon.
Their second surprise was not a delight at all. A telegram arrived from Aunt Dru. Aunt Tilly’s ward, Frannie, was found dead, murdered, that day, and Rose’s presence was needed as soon as possible. Their wedding night plans immediately changed to getting on the next train out. Such a terrible tragedy, a 16-year old girl with much to look forward to, Taken Too Soon from this life!
Rose helps the local police detective much the same way as she does for Kevin Donovan in Amesbury. Or at least she tries. Rose asks questions, learns some things she would rather not know, secrets in both her family and David’s family. It is hard to pick out just one person as a suspect! Whoever planned this murder did so in such a way to put Aunt Tilly as a suspect. Others blame the young man who she had been dating.
The plot was very well executed, with just the right amount of twists and surprises. I was surprised at some of the seemingly little, but well-researched, details such as how quickly Special Delivery mail went through, the express trains, and the wildlife in the area around Falmouth. The resolution delivered surprises, including one very positive one. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written historical mysteries, fans of the series and author, and the Quaker lifestyle.
From a thankful heart: I received an eARC of this novel from the publisher and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Rose Carroll and David Doge have had a longer engagement than most couples for various reasons, but their day has finally arrived. It was delightful to read about the joys of their special day as conducted at the Lawrence Friends Meeting House where her parents live. They will soon be leaving for their wedding night before they go to visit Rose’s elderly aunts, Tilly and Dru, who were unable to travel. One of their surprises is that David’s estranged brother Currie arrived at the reception. He now lives nearby where they will be staying for their honeymoon.
Their second surprise was not a delight at all. A telegram arrived from Aunt Dru. Aunt Tilly’s ward, Frannie, was found dead, murdered, that day, and Rose’s presence was needed as soon as possible. Their wedding night plans immediately changed to getting on the next train out. Such a terrible tragedy, a 16-year old girl with much to look forward to, Taken Too Soon from this life!
Rose helps the local police detective much the same way as she does for Kevin Donovan in Amesbury. Or at least she tries. Rose asks questions, learns some things she would rather not know, secrets in both her family and David’s family. It is hard to pick out just one person as a suspect! Whoever planned this murder did so in such a way to put Aunt Tilly as a suspect. Others blame the young man who she had been dating.
The plot was very well executed, with just the right amount of twists and surprises. I was surprised at some of the seemingly little, but well-researched, details such as how quickly Special Delivery mail went through, the express trains, and the wildlife in the area around Falmouth. The resolution delivered surprises, including one very positive one. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written historical mysteries, fans of the series and author, and the Quaker lifestyle.
From a thankful heart: I received an eARC of this novel from the publisher and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
May 30, 2021
Happily I have read the whole very interesting series which was well reviewed. This book was runner up for the Agatha awards for best traditional historical novels,and two of the books also runner uop the Macavity award also for historical mystery. There is one more which was published this year in 2021 which wraps up the series.
This one changes Rose Carroll Quaker midwife and amateur investigator to wife and the very next one will..Guess?
Recommended.
This one changes Rose Carroll Quaker midwife and amateur investigator to wife and the very next one will..Guess?
Recommended.
October 21, 2020
Another excellent Edith Maxwell entry in the Rose Carroll (now Dodge) series. In this book, she has left home after her wedding and gone to her aunts’ home in a fishing village when their ward has been killed. As always, one reasons these books are so interesting are the many period details and cultural aspects of life in the 1890s, particularly among Quakers. But the mystery was also good.
October 17, 2020
Well researched historical mystery with an excellent sense of time and place. I really like this Quaker midwife series.
September 13, 2020
This latest book in the Quaker Midwife series is a great read. Rose and David finally get married. Rose ends up solving a murder on her honeymoon. The characters are so believable. I especially liked Brigid. She was a capable young woman who could get things done. You get caught up in the story and the lives of Rose's family and the people she meets. I would recommend this to everyone.
September 27, 2020
Taken Too Soon earns 5/5 Picnics at the Beach...Compelling & Entertaining Drama!
Edith Maxwell’s sixth book is another compelling drama in her Quaker Midwife Mystery series, but this time a change in the setting and several fascinating new characters. During the Rose’s and David’s wedding reception, a telegram arrives from Rose’s septuagenarian Aunt Drusilla pleading that Rose come immediately...there’s been a murder! The newlyweds had planned to spend their honeymoon on Cape Cod since her two aunts were unable to attend the nuptials. However, Aunt Tilly’s sixteen-year-old ward Frannie Isley has been found dead. Rose’s new mother-in-law Clarinda is, of course, critical of their early departure, David will miss catching up with his long lost brother Currie, and both are disappointed about foregoing their anticipated wedding night for a train ride, but David fervently supports his wife. Off they go...
Edith Maxwell’s drama is well rooted in the nineteenth century with its fashion, transportation, and absence of modern conveniences, but one can still easily identify with teenage angst, family disfunction, racial discrimination, “Me Too” issues, and the seedy side of the West Falmouth community. The characters are realistic and engaging from Rose’s spinster aunts to a new detective seeking Rose’s involvement and from another group of “Friends” ranging from devout to pretentious to non-Friends including members of the Wampanoag tribe. Maxwell’s writing style in a delightful first-person narrative is entertaining, well-researched, and filled with “thee-s” and thou-s” for authenticity. Her descriptive language colors well the setting and character appearances, and the dialogue illustrates the emotions and distinctive personalities. Along with the absorbing drama and a satisfying karmic ending, readers are given insights into more of Rose’s and David’s family exposing secrets, and although Rose is away from her female clients, midwifery does find itself into the story. Organized in delightfully short chapters, it is easily read and a stand-alone easy for newbies to start here. However, I highly recommend this book, this series…all of it!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Beyond the Page thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Edith Maxwell’s sixth book is another compelling drama in her Quaker Midwife Mystery series, but this time a change in the setting and several fascinating new characters. During the Rose’s and David’s wedding reception, a telegram arrives from Rose’s septuagenarian Aunt Drusilla pleading that Rose come immediately...there’s been a murder! The newlyweds had planned to spend their honeymoon on Cape Cod since her two aunts were unable to attend the nuptials. However, Aunt Tilly’s sixteen-year-old ward Frannie Isley has been found dead. Rose’s new mother-in-law Clarinda is, of course, critical of their early departure, David will miss catching up with his long lost brother Currie, and both are disappointed about foregoing their anticipated wedding night for a train ride, but David fervently supports his wife. Off they go...
Edith Maxwell’s drama is well rooted in the nineteenth century with its fashion, transportation, and absence of modern conveniences, but one can still easily identify with teenage angst, family disfunction, racial discrimination, “Me Too” issues, and the seedy side of the West Falmouth community. The characters are realistic and engaging from Rose’s spinster aunts to a new detective seeking Rose’s involvement and from another group of “Friends” ranging from devout to pretentious to non-Friends including members of the Wampanoag tribe. Maxwell’s writing style in a delightful first-person narrative is entertaining, well-researched, and filled with “thee-s” and thou-s” for authenticity. Her descriptive language colors well the setting and character appearances, and the dialogue illustrates the emotions and distinctive personalities. Along with the absorbing drama and a satisfying karmic ending, readers are given insights into more of Rose’s and David’s family exposing secrets, and although Rose is away from her female clients, midwifery does find itself into the story. Organized in delightfully short chapters, it is easily read and a stand-alone easy for newbies to start here. However, I highly recommend this book, this series…all of it!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from Beyond the Page thru NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
October 13, 2020
TAKEN TOO SOON by Edith Maxwell
A simple, elegant, pleasant celebration of marriage doesn’t seem to be too much to ask, but Rose and David’s “best-laid plans” are derailed first by his mother’s insistence on a formal reception, with the happy couple kept separate at a “table of honor” while they long to mingle and enjoy their guests, and then by the dramatic and tense appearance of David’s long-estranged brother. That should have been enough disruption for any couple, but no, there’s also a telegram from Rose’s aunt, requesting her immediate assistance to help investigate the death of the aunt’s young ward Frannie . . . and there go all the plans for a luxurious honeymoon, but her aunts need her, justice must be served, and love will find a way.
The twists and turns of this “murky and tangled” case would try anyone’s patience, but Rose gives her best efforts and enlists allies, including detective Edwin, watchful friends and neighbors, and midwife Zerviah, a skilled midwife who, with her family, faces prejudice, that “peculiar form of ignorance” directed against the Wampanoag people. There is danger and confusion as “The plot thickens” (line from THE REHEARSAL by George Villiers).
I love a book that teaches while captivating with a compelling plot and characters. I won’t give “spoilers” but here are some details to appreciate:
The moments of silent contemplation provide insights and direction. (In a bit of synchronicity, SMITHSONIAN just featured an article on the benefits to mental and physical health derived from silence).
The inspiring story of John Woolman, who, living his values, refused to write a will bequeathing slaves and thereby convinced the client to free them instead.
A lovely detail, watching the sun set over water, due to peninsula and islands, reminded me of the Delta Queen cruise on the winding Ohio River, when a new friend was watching for sunrise at the front of the boat, and I hurried to tell her to go to the stern. ;-)
A sweet and humorous detail, Rose feeling uneasy about her “revealing” bathing suit. <3
The ironic and hurtful detail of Rose being excluded from her Meeting for marrying out of the faith, a problem to be solved in a future book, I hope.
This is book 6 in a series, though it could be read alone.
A simple, elegant, pleasant celebration of marriage doesn’t seem to be too much to ask, but Rose and David’s “best-laid plans” are derailed first by his mother’s insistence on a formal reception, with the happy couple kept separate at a “table of honor” while they long to mingle and enjoy their guests, and then by the dramatic and tense appearance of David’s long-estranged brother. That should have been enough disruption for any couple, but no, there’s also a telegram from Rose’s aunt, requesting her immediate assistance to help investigate the death of the aunt’s young ward Frannie . . . and there go all the plans for a luxurious honeymoon, but her aunts need her, justice must be served, and love will find a way.
The twists and turns of this “murky and tangled” case would try anyone’s patience, but Rose gives her best efforts and enlists allies, including detective Edwin, watchful friends and neighbors, and midwife Zerviah, a skilled midwife who, with her family, faces prejudice, that “peculiar form of ignorance” directed against the Wampanoag people. There is danger and confusion as “The plot thickens” (line from THE REHEARSAL by George Villiers).
I love a book that teaches while captivating with a compelling plot and characters. I won’t give “spoilers” but here are some details to appreciate:
The moments of silent contemplation provide insights and direction. (In a bit of synchronicity, SMITHSONIAN just featured an article on the benefits to mental and physical health derived from silence).
The inspiring story of John Woolman, who, living his values, refused to write a will bequeathing slaves and thereby convinced the client to free them instead.
A lovely detail, watching the sun set over water, due to peninsula and islands, reminded me of the Delta Queen cruise on the winding Ohio River, when a new friend was watching for sunrise at the front of the boat, and I hurried to tell her to go to the stern. ;-)
A sweet and humorous detail, Rose feeling uneasy about her “revealing” bathing suit. <3
The ironic and hurtful detail of Rose being excluded from her Meeting for marrying out of the faith, a problem to be solved in a future book, I hope.
This is book 6 in a series, though it could be read alone.
September 6, 2020
My sincere thank you to Beyond the Pages Publishing and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this delightful book.
How on earth had I not discovered this Quaker Midwife series sooner?! I have read and enjoyed other books by this author but this is my new favourite. This novel was fine as a stand alone but I am now smitten and will read the first five in the series and await future ones.
Rose, a 19th century Quaker midwife and amateur investigator and her new husband have just married and are at the reception when news of a murder is delivered, requesting immediate assistance. Rather than enjoying their honeymoon in a fancy hotel as planned, they agreed to travel to Rose's aunts' town where the murder occurred. The newlyweds enjoy time together while Rose befriends and investigates along with the local authorities. Many twists and turns later, the mysteries are solved.
The importance of faith and culture was pronounced and fascinating. It is obvious the author did thorough research and drew from extensive personal knowledge of the Quaker religion, history and cultures mentioned. I like the use of correct vernacular of the time...really adds to the story. Also appreciate that the author used "wantonly stolen character names from the gravestones in the West Falmouth Cemetery". Brilliant!
The title really fits the tone of the story. The food descriptions were sublime! Though a cozy mystery, this wasn't one dimensional as they sometimes are. One of my favourite aspects is the added layers of a religion I do not know a lot about which created depth.
The only thing which didn't seem to fit was the short intimacy description.
I've already told several readers about this series and we are eager for the adventure!
How on earth had I not discovered this Quaker Midwife series sooner?! I have read and enjoyed other books by this author but this is my new favourite. This novel was fine as a stand alone but I am now smitten and will read the first five in the series and await future ones.
Rose, a 19th century Quaker midwife and amateur investigator and her new husband have just married and are at the reception when news of a murder is delivered, requesting immediate assistance. Rather than enjoying their honeymoon in a fancy hotel as planned, they agreed to travel to Rose's aunts' town where the murder occurred. The newlyweds enjoy time together while Rose befriends and investigates along with the local authorities. Many twists and turns later, the mysteries are solved.
The importance of faith and culture was pronounced and fascinating. It is obvious the author did thorough research and drew from extensive personal knowledge of the Quaker religion, history and cultures mentioned. I like the use of correct vernacular of the time...really adds to the story. Also appreciate that the author used "wantonly stolen character names from the gravestones in the West Falmouth Cemetery". Brilliant!
The title really fits the tone of the story. The food descriptions were sublime! Though a cozy mystery, this wasn't one dimensional as they sometimes are. One of my favourite aspects is the added layers of a religion I do not know a lot about which created depth.
The only thing which didn't seem to fit was the short intimacy description.
I've already told several readers about this series and we are eager for the adventure!
September 8, 2020
The latest book in one of my very favourite series - and it's a terrific addition and a fantastic read!
At long last, Rose Carroll and her beloved David Dodge are tying the knot and looking forward to their week's honeymoon. However, their reception is interrupted by a telegram from Cape Cod where the ward of Rose's aunt has unexpectedly died and, knowing Rose's reputation in investigating such things, she pleads for her help. Rapidly deciding to combine their honeymoon with this sorry turn of events, Rose and David set out to assist in which ever way they can.
This is the delightful sixth book in The Quaker Midwife series, and it's thrilling to find Rose actually tying the knot at long last - they make such a great couple! This book sees Rose out of her usual setting where she knows everyone and everything that is going on, but it doesn't take her long to get be acquainted with the friends and neighbours of her two aunts - along with several others. It's rather exciting to find out lots of information about a new area - Edith Maxwell's research is second to none and her acknowledgements are always well worth a read! The mystery itself is quite intricate with plenty of suspects and following the Quaker way of life and worship is a means of keeping Rose calm and focused on her mission. There's something very soothing about the meeting house scenes and all put together this is another cracking mystery which kept me riveted from first to last. I hope this series continues for a long time to come - I look forward to them so much and they leave me with a real sense of peace. Wonderfully enjoyable and absolutely worth all five sparkling stars.
At long last, Rose Carroll and her beloved David Dodge are tying the knot and looking forward to their week's honeymoon. However, their reception is interrupted by a telegram from Cape Cod where the ward of Rose's aunt has unexpectedly died and, knowing Rose's reputation in investigating such things, she pleads for her help. Rapidly deciding to combine their honeymoon with this sorry turn of events, Rose and David set out to assist in which ever way they can.
This is the delightful sixth book in The Quaker Midwife series, and it's thrilling to find Rose actually tying the knot at long last - they make such a great couple! This book sees Rose out of her usual setting where she knows everyone and everything that is going on, but it doesn't take her long to get be acquainted with the friends and neighbours of her two aunts - along with several others. It's rather exciting to find out lots of information about a new area - Edith Maxwell's research is second to none and her acknowledgements are always well worth a read! The mystery itself is quite intricate with plenty of suspects and following the Quaker way of life and worship is a means of keeping Rose calm and focused on her mission. There's something very soothing about the meeting house scenes and all put together this is another cracking mystery which kept me riveted from first to last. I hope this series continues for a long time to come - I look forward to them so much and they leave me with a real sense of peace. Wonderfully enjoyable and absolutely worth all five sparkling stars.
September 7, 2020
It’s Quaker midwife Rose Carroll and David Dodge’s wedding day. The book opens with the couple greeting guests after the ceremony. David’s father, Herbert, is happy at the match, but David’s mother, Clarinda, not so much. Rose confides to the reader “Clarinda had thrown every obstacle she could onto the path of David’s marrying me.” Clarinda’s expectation is Rose will give up her “silly hobby” and conduct herself as a proper married woman, but it is an expectation David quickly shoots down. In his reply he makes it clear Rose will continue to work as a midwife as she is “fully capable of being both a wife” and a professional midwife. Rose and David’s relationship is countercultural in 1889 and testing of their union comes quickly.
At the reception, David’s long-estranged brother Herbert Currier Dodge, known as Currie, makes an appearance. Up until now, Rose had no idea David had a brother, and is a bit unsettled David has kept this information from her until now. The real conflict lies between Currie and Clarinda and into this tense encounter a telegram arrives for Rose’s father Allan Burroughs Carroll from his sister Miss Drusilla Carroll, Rose’s Aunt Dru. The telegram is urgent and requests Rose’s presence immediately. Frannie Isley, a ward of Rose’s Aunt Tilly, has been murdered. Tilly and Dru are elderly spinsters and live together in West Falmouth located on Cape Cod. Dru requests Rose’s presence right away because, in addition to being a talented midwife, Rose is also an amateur sleuth.
Instead of starting a honeymoon, Rose and David head to West Falmouth to be with Rose’s aunts and to solve a murder. Frannie’s murder exposes long-held secrets that demand resolutions with the power to heal or destroy.
Recommendation for this book
Read it. The historical detail immerses the reader into the Quaker way of life in the late 1880s. The mystery will keep you guessing.
At the reception, David’s long-estranged brother Herbert Currier Dodge, known as Currie, makes an appearance. Up until now, Rose had no idea David had a brother, and is a bit unsettled David has kept this information from her until now. The real conflict lies between Currie and Clarinda and into this tense encounter a telegram arrives for Rose’s father Allan Burroughs Carroll from his sister Miss Drusilla Carroll, Rose’s Aunt Dru. The telegram is urgent and requests Rose’s presence immediately. Frannie Isley, a ward of Rose’s Aunt Tilly, has been murdered. Tilly and Dru are elderly spinsters and live together in West Falmouth located on Cape Cod. Dru requests Rose’s presence right away because, in addition to being a talented midwife, Rose is also an amateur sleuth.
Instead of starting a honeymoon, Rose and David head to West Falmouth to be with Rose’s aunts and to solve a murder. Frannie’s murder exposes long-held secrets that demand resolutions with the power to heal or destroy.
Recommendation for this book
Read it. The historical detail immerses the reader into the Quaker way of life in the late 1880s. The mystery will keep you guessing.
September 10, 2020
Taken Too Soon by Edith Maxwell, is another in the Quaker Midwife series and opens with Rose and David's long-awaited wedding. Everything goes smoothly until a telegram is delivered requesting Rose to come immediately. Her aunt Tilly's ward, Frannie has been murdered and her aunt Drucilla is requesting her help. Of course, she and David set off right away. They arrive to find an oddly muted situation with Tilly not even at home and Drucilla on her way out so that Rose and David can have privacy for their wedding night. It turns into a complicated investigation with many players and some issues one might assume only occur in modern times, i.e. pedophilia. Rose finds a policeman open to her assistance, and another midwife, although this one is Wampanoag Indian.
Rose is such a good character, with her Quaker ways and her open and honest way of dealing with the world. Impediments are thrown in her way and she works through them in a simple, straightforward way that gains her victory every time. She is stalwart and courageous and never lets anything get her down. The story is complicated with different family relationships complicating matters. People will be people and no one knows that better than Maxwell, and Rose. This is an interesting and entertaining book, giving the reader insight into the times as well as our own. The plot is good. The setting is amazing. The characters are real and moving. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Taken Too Soon by Net galley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #takentoosoon
Rose is such a good character, with her Quaker ways and her open and honest way of dealing with the world. Impediments are thrown in her way and she works through them in a simple, straightforward way that gains her victory every time. She is stalwart and courageous and never lets anything get her down. The story is complicated with different family relationships complicating matters. People will be people and no one knows that better than Maxwell, and Rose. This is an interesting and entertaining book, giving the reader insight into the times as well as our own. The plot is good. The setting is amazing. The characters are real and moving. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free ARC of Taken Too Soon by Net galley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #takentoosoon
August 29, 2020
In the sixth book in the Quaker Midwife mystery series, protagonist Rose Carroll has finally married her beau, Dr. David Dodge. At the wedding celebration, they get two surprises. David's estranged older brother Currie makes a sudden appearance. And Rose gets a telegram from her spinster aunts Dru and Tilly that their young ward Frannie Islay has been murdered and they need her help now. Since the newlyweds were already planning to spend their honeymoon in the Cape Cod area, they rush to West Falmouth that evening.
When the autopsy confirms that Frannie was pregnant. the identity of the father becomes key. Is he Reuben Baxter, the native son of local midwife Zerviah and Joseph? Or their pompous Quaker neighbour Abial Latting? Or even Currie himself who had been tempting Frannie with dreams of appearing in the local burlesque show?
There are also plenty of secrets about Frannie and her aunts that thwart her investigation. When David's demanding Clarinda becomes suddenly ill, he leaves town to be at her side, leaving Rose alone and potentially vulnerable. Rose is out of her normal element of Amesbury as she questions the locals about Frannie and this makes this a less enjoyable book than others in the series.
I received an eARC from Netgalley and Beyond the Page Publishing with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and provided this review.
When the autopsy confirms that Frannie was pregnant. the identity of the father becomes key. Is he Reuben Baxter, the native son of local midwife Zerviah and Joseph? Or their pompous Quaker neighbour Abial Latting? Or even Currie himself who had been tempting Frannie with dreams of appearing in the local burlesque show?
There are also plenty of secrets about Frannie and her aunts that thwart her investigation. When David's demanding Clarinda becomes suddenly ill, he leaves town to be at her side, leaving Rose alone and potentially vulnerable. Rose is out of her normal element of Amesbury as she questions the locals about Frannie and this makes this a less enjoyable book than others in the series.
I received an eARC from Netgalley and Beyond the Page Publishing with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and provided this review.
June 6, 2020
This, the sixth book in the Quaker Midwife series, was a bit different from the previous books. Rose and David are finally married! As they are about to leave for their special wedding night in a hotel, Rose gets a telegram demanding she go immediately to her aunts' home in Woods Holl, Cape Cod. They want her to solve a murder for them. Some honeymoon for Rose and David!
Once at her aunts' Rose did what she does best and questioned all sorts of people. I'm always surprised in these cases when people generally just fall in and tell her whatever she wants to know. While the honeymoon wasn't what they had hoped for they made the best of the situation, Rose more than once letting us know she "enjoyed the fruits of the flesh." As well, she was involved in a rather tricky birth and she had a couple of other hair raising incidents.
This book is not to be missed! thank you to the author, Edith Maxwell, for an ARC.
Once at her aunts' Rose did what she does best and questioned all sorts of people. I'm always surprised in these cases when people generally just fall in and tell her whatever she wants to know. While the honeymoon wasn't what they had hoped for they made the best of the situation, Rose more than once letting us know she "enjoyed the fruits of the flesh." As well, she was involved in a rather tricky birth and she had a couple of other hair raising incidents.
This book is not to be missed! thank you to the author, Edith Maxwell, for an ARC.
August 24, 2020
As this book opens our beloved Rose is finally married to David and we are enjoying the reception. Yes, David's mother is here and we meet more of his family, a brother.
Of course, being with Rose you know a body will appear, and sadly this time it is family. So we journey with this new, finally married, couple down to the coast. Falmouth Massachusetts, and are honeymooning and now helping solve the murder of her sixteen year old cousin.
We meet new Friends, member's of her Aunt's church, and all the while we are wondering whom is responsible. A sweet sharing midwife and her family, whom are Indians, a wayward brother and burlesque, an older Quaker, a former girlfriend and liar, the list grows and there are more, but a young woman lies dead, and we are with Rose to find the culprit!
I have enjoyed this series of books, and this one is no exception.
I received this book through Net Galley and Beyond the Page Publishers, and was not required to give a positive review
Of course, being with Rose you know a body will appear, and sadly this time it is family. So we journey with this new, finally married, couple down to the coast. Falmouth Massachusetts, and are honeymooning and now helping solve the murder of her sixteen year old cousin.
We meet new Friends, member's of her Aunt's church, and all the while we are wondering whom is responsible. A sweet sharing midwife and her family, whom are Indians, a wayward brother and burlesque, an older Quaker, a former girlfriend and liar, the list grows and there are more, but a young woman lies dead, and we are with Rose to find the culprit!
I have enjoyed this series of books, and this one is no exception.
I received this book through Net Galley and Beyond the Page Publishers, and was not required to give a positive review
September 17, 2020
This series just gets better and better. So happy for Rose, that she and David finally married and that she found such a smart, forward thinking young man, all that being said I think I got more insights into Rose in this book then any other!
I love this series, the attention to detail, the sense of time and place and the characters. While Rose is away from home, on her honeymoon on the Cape, we still have some connections to family, plenty at the wedding, but even away Rose's great aunts and David's long lost brother play big parts in our mystery. Rose is called upon by her great aunts to find out who murdered her Aunt's ward.
While this was a great mystery with lots of great suspects, my favorite thing about this book is how we really learn about how Rose lives her faith. I learn more about what it means to be a Quaker and enjoy how Rose really works at being a good person while acknowledging that she just a real struggling soul. Can't wait to spend more time with Rose!
I love this series, the attention to detail, the sense of time and place and the characters. While Rose is away from home, on her honeymoon on the Cape, we still have some connections to family, plenty at the wedding, but even away Rose's great aunts and David's long lost brother play big parts in our mystery. Rose is called upon by her great aunts to find out who murdered her Aunt's ward.
While this was a great mystery with lots of great suspects, my favorite thing about this book is how we really learn about how Rose lives her faith. I learn more about what it means to be a Quaker and enjoy how Rose really works at being a good person while acknowledging that she just a real struggling soul. Can't wait to spend more time with Rose!
June 19, 2020
This is my favorite series by Edith Maxwell. I received a free digital copy from Net Galley in exchange for a honest review.
Synposis:
Rose and David get married. They meet David's estranged brother Currie at the reception after the wedding. They already planned on a honeymoon to Falmouth when they receive a urgent telegram from Rose's aunts in Falmouth, asking them to come right away.
Turns out that the aunts' ward was murdered and they ask Rose for help. We meet new characters, including the killer. I suspected who the killer was from the beginning, though there were times when I thought maybe I was wrong. I loved the mention of Laura Bridgman and Helen Keller in the book.
We meet an Indian midwife and her son. Her husband is the caretaker for a wealthy Quaker. We learn more about Rose's aunts who are sisters of Rose's father.
Synposis:
Rose and David get married. They meet David's estranged brother Currie at the reception after the wedding. They already planned on a honeymoon to Falmouth when they receive a urgent telegram from Rose's aunts in Falmouth, asking them to come right away.
Turns out that the aunts' ward was murdered and they ask Rose for help. We meet new characters, including the killer. I suspected who the killer was from the beginning, though there were times when I thought maybe I was wrong. I loved the mention of Laura Bridgman and Helen Keller in the book.
We meet an Indian midwife and her son. Her husband is the caretaker for a wealthy Quaker. We learn more about Rose's aunts who are sisters of Rose's father.
August 16, 2020
Quaker Midwife Mystery #6
Rose Carroll and her brand new husband, David, haven't even finished their wedding reception when word is received from her elderly aunts that their ward has died and she must come immediately.
The young girl's murder has rattled her aunts and the entire New England town. And as Rose works with the detectives to find the killer, David must deal with his rakish brother and his manipulative mother.
Family secrets, long-held grudges, and misunderstandings abound and Rose is ready to find a killer and get back to her beloved.
This is one of my favorite series! Rose is such an interesting character and I can't wait to see what Ms. Maxwell will have in store for Rose and David!
NetGalley/ September 8th, 2020 by Beyond the Page
Rose Carroll and her brand new husband, David, haven't even finished their wedding reception when word is received from her elderly aunts that their ward has died and she must come immediately.
The young girl's murder has rattled her aunts and the entire New England town. And as Rose works with the detectives to find the killer, David must deal with his rakish brother and his manipulative mother.
Family secrets, long-held grudges, and misunderstandings abound and Rose is ready to find a killer and get back to her beloved.
This is one of my favorite series! Rose is such an interesting character and I can't wait to see what Ms. Maxwell will have in store for Rose and David!
NetGalley/ September 8th, 2020 by Beyond the Page
October 21, 2020
Ms. Maxwell is a very accomplished storyteller. She has woven together a story that is both enthralling and addicting. I found myself not wanting to put the book down. I find myself entertained and putting the pieces of the puzzle together right alongside Rose. I also learn about the Quaker way of life and how things were back in that time period. Her books are historically accurate. I find myself learning while enjoying a mystery full of twists, turns and unexpected surprises at every corner. The only regret I have is that she can't write books fast enough for me because I find myself wanting the next one immediately after I finish the one I am currently reading. I loved this book.
February 12, 2021
I hate to see this series about Rose Carrol, the Quaker midwife end. This book was excellent. I couldn’t stop reading it. It was not an easy murder to solve as many suspects could have been the guilty one It took place in West Falmouth, Falmouth, and Woods Holl as they spelled it in 1889. As I live only 10 minutes from West Falmouth, I found the history and description of the area fascinating. Edith Maxwell is meticulous in her research about the area and time period she writes in. I will try one of her other series soon.
October 13, 2021
3.5 stars. Rose and David finally marry, at her parents' Meeting. But the celebration afterwards is interrupted — first by the arrival of David's estranged brother, Currie; and then by a telegram begging them to come immediately to West Falmouth, where Rose's aunt's teenage ward has been murdered. Despite being in an unfamiliar location, Rose once again puts her detecting skills to use — and once again encounters danger. Interesting characters and an intriguing plot combine to create an excellent story. Recommended.
April 29, 2021
If anyone had told me that I would be a fan of a mystery series starring a Quaker Midwife, I'd have told them they were nuts...and yet here we are 6 books in and I adore Rose! She is no nonsense, intelligent, inquisitive, observant and whip smart. She and new husband (finally!) are called away to the Cape to assist her Aunts in the investigation of a young girls murder. Family intrigue, prejudice and burlesque abound in this installment in a wonderful series!
May 22, 2021
See my review of Judge Thee Not. This one had a better plot, I think, and an interesting historical narrative mixed in with the murder. The actual murder and the uncovering of the culprit was anticlimactic--much more interesting was now Midwife Rose figured out the family history behind the young girl who was "taken too soon."
And as usual, the birthing of babies was the best part of this whole book. I do wish she'd give up on the mysteries and just write straight midwifery stuff.
And as usual, the birthing of babies was the best part of this whole book. I do wish she'd give up on the mysteries and just write straight midwifery stuff.
January 26, 2022
I really enjoyed this book a lot… It was nice to see Rose and David married open in front se that’s not as spoiler it says that they’re married in the annotation closing parentheses. Anyway seeing Rose outside of her home community was interesting and there are a lot of people that we got to meet that we have not yet seen in the books before. I’m curious to know what will come next for Rose… But I suppose we will see in upcoming books.
June 1, 2020
I love cozy mysteries and historical fiction so I was excited to receive this book from NetGalley. However, once I was into the book I was disappointed. The characters were not well portrayed and shallow. I admit the book was not so bad I could not finish it. In addition, references to the newlyweds “cavorting” were unnecessary and added nothing to the story. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 6, 2021
I admit I have not made a point to read many historical cozy mysteries like I do historical fiction. I accidentally found this series not long ago and have fallen in love with Rose. Her tenacity is admirable.
I keep saying I need to back and read the ones I have missed and have yet to do that. I'm very interested to see how Rose started out.
Taken Too Soon has quite a bit of romance but one would expect that with Rose getting married. I am excited to see how the marriage progresses.
Reader beware it is written with a lot of "thee" and "thou" but once you get used to it you don't notice the antiquated way of speaking. I appreciate the author in keeping with the time period. It makes the story real.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
I keep saying I need to back and read the ones I have missed and have yet to do that. I'm very interested to see how Rose started out.
Taken Too Soon has quite a bit of romance but one would expect that with Rose getting married. I am excited to see how the marriage progresses.
Reader beware it is written with a lot of "thee" and "thou" but once you get used to it you don't notice the antiquated way of speaking. I appreciate the author in keeping with the time period. It makes the story real.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
March 24, 2021
I have just loved all the books in this Quaker Midwife Mystery. I hope there will be more as the story is so good and I love the characters. Edith hit the ball out of the park with this and so glad that a major event happened in this book!
June 16, 2021
I always think that Edith Maxwell has reached the pinnacle of cozy writing with each book in this series and then I read the next one and realise that the pinnacle keeps moving and these books just get better and better!
September 26, 2020
enjoyable historical cozy mystery series set in 1889 Massachusetts with a twist, the sleuth is a Quaker midwife
October 27, 2020
Taken Too Soon is by far my favorite from Edith Maxwell's series, Quaker Midwife Mystery. I could not put it down until I had the whole book read in one sitting. Five stars.
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