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Garnick & Paschal Mystery #1
Devil by the Tail
Quinn Sinclair, the audacious young widow of a Union soldier, joins forces with an unvarnished ex-Confederate POW named Garnick to form a detective agency in 1867 Chicago. The detectives take on two cases on the same day - one to help a man prove he didn't kill his wife, the other to help a lawyer find reasonable doubt that his client killed her ex-lover's new bride. As the investigation proceeds, they discover facts that tie the cases together in disturbing ways. Quinn, who uses the name Mrs. Paschal professionally, is determined to prove their client innocent. But in 19th Century Chicago, innocence is a matter of degree.
A sensational arson and murder, a yellow press, corrupt politicians and a bevy of colorful bawdyhouse madams make seeking justice a dangerous business. Not least among Quinn's worries, somebody seems intent on murdering her!
A sensational arson and murder, a yellow press, corrupt politicians and a bevy of colorful bawdyhouse madams make seeking justice a dangerous business. Not least among Quinn's worries, somebody seems intent on murdering her!
300 pages, Paperback
First published July 20, 2021
3 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Jeanne Matthews
16 books43 followersJeanne Matthews graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in Journalism and a yen to write. Born with an insatiable wanderlust, she travels whenever she can and if she likes a place, writes a book about it - almost always including a dash of the local mythology and a murder.. Currently, she lives in Renton, Washington with her husband and a Norwich terrier named Jack Reacher.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
July 25, 2021
DIDN'T DO IT FOR ME
Actual rating: 2.5 ⭐
I was excited by the premise of this book. I like historical mysteries, especially with female sleuths, and was excited to read one set in the states, especially during this time period. Sadly, the execution just wasn't for me.
👍 What I Liked 👍
Language and setting: Both the language and the setting were really well done. It made the reading feel authentic and helped conjure up the feeling of the historical era. There's no doubt that Matthews has done tremendous research into her time period and it pays off.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Beginning: Several times I researched whether or not this was actually the second or perhaps even third in a series. I was so confused. I felt like the beginning wasn't a beginning but a continuation. So many names, so many anecdotes and so many side-stories. It was all over the place and did a poor job of setting the stage.
Background: It's obvious that both our main characters, Garnick and Quinn, have very rich background stories. But they're never completely explained. They're just teased and it bothered me so much. Again, it made me feel like I was reading a 3rd in a series or perhaps even a spin-off series. It made me feel left out and confused.
Characters: There weren't really any of the characters that I liked. They were flat and lifeless. I don't have a sense of any of them.
Tell: This story suffered from a lot of telling and very little showing. It made the story feel very matter-of-fact and with minimum feelings, emotions or sentiments. Probably a big contributing factor to why I didn't connect with any of the characters.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Actual rating: 2.5 ⭐
I was excited by the premise of this book. I like historical mysteries, especially with female sleuths, and was excited to read one set in the states, especially during this time period. Sadly, the execution just wasn't for me.
👍 What I Liked 👍
Language and setting: Both the language and the setting were really well done. It made the reading feel authentic and helped conjure up the feeling of the historical era. There's no doubt that Matthews has done tremendous research into her time period and it pays off.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Beginning: Several times I researched whether or not this was actually the second or perhaps even third in a series. I was so confused. I felt like the beginning wasn't a beginning but a continuation. So many names, so many anecdotes and so many side-stories. It was all over the place and did a poor job of setting the stage.
Background: It's obvious that both our main characters, Garnick and Quinn, have very rich background stories. But they're never completely explained. They're just teased and it bothered me so much. Again, it made me feel like I was reading a 3rd in a series or perhaps even a spin-off series. It made me feel left out and confused.
Characters: There weren't really any of the characters that I liked. They were flat and lifeless. I don't have a sense of any of them.
Tell: This story suffered from a lot of telling and very little showing. It made the story feel very matter-of-fact and with minimum feelings, emotions or sentiments. Probably a big contributing factor to why I didn't connect with any of the characters.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book loving content!
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Blog Post: 15 Bookworm Problems
September 6, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- Enjoyable historical "whodunit"
This was an entertaining read. I am quite partial to historical mysteries with a female detective or lead. Pair her up with a likable male partner and toss in a bit of attraction and you are almost always guaranteed a favorable rating. 😉 I found this one to be well written and well paced. I loved the time and setting. The plot was engaging and kept me guessing. Both Quinn and Garnick were likable leads and had good on page chemistry. All wrapped up in a satisfying ending.
That said, I had one small niggle. This is book one, but there was a lot of backstory regarding both Quinn and Garnick that was just...missing. 🤷🏻♀️ Some of it is briefly alluded to, but I kind of felt like I was reading a second book in a series as apposed to the first.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
This was an entertaining read. I am quite partial to historical mysteries with a female detective or lead. Pair her up with a likable male partner and toss in a bit of attraction and you are almost always guaranteed a favorable rating. 😉 I found this one to be well written and well paced. I loved the time and setting. The plot was engaging and kept me guessing. Both Quinn and Garnick were likable leads and had good on page chemistry. All wrapped up in a satisfying ending.
That said, I had one small niggle. This is book one, but there was a lot of backstory regarding both Quinn and Garnick that was just...missing. 🤷🏻♀️ Some of it is briefly alluded to, but I kind of felt like I was reading a second book in a series as apposed to the first.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
April 9, 2021
Jeanne Matthews knows how to structure a mystery that keeps readers guessing while at the same time deftly drawing us into the milieu in which it takes place—post Civil War Chicago. Readers of DEVIL BY THE TAIL are as likely to encounter a herd of hogs on their way to the stockyards trotting briskly down the middle of the street as we are to meet a wildly diverse and colorful bunch of human characters from all walks of society. One of my favorites is Gentle Annie, who “took a horsewhip to her faithless lover, Cap Hyman, and flogged him through the streets, a ferocious show of love that persuaded him to ask her hand in marriage.”
Garnick and Paschal is a detective agency with a twist. One of the partners—Quinn Sinclair—has disguised herself as Mrs. Paschal to conceal her identity as a single woman with an Irish background—a deception that is essential to her professional advancement in the 1860’s. Quinn and Garnick have a lot in common: Her independence was hard won after years of living as a widow under the thumb of her mother-in-law after her husband died, and Garnick knows what it’s like to be imprisoned, having spent two years soldiering in the Confederate Army and another two as a prisoner of war in a disease-infested camp. They also share a sense of humor rooted in having survived many difficult circumstances and readers will enjoy watching their rapport grow stronger as their investigations throw even more violent obstacles in their shared path. All this leads to a budding romance about which I will say no more in this “spoiler-free” review.
DEVIL BY THE TAIL begins with the partners taking on an assignment to help an unlikable client clear his name of a murder, a case that quickly intersects with an investigation for a dodgy lawyer who is defending “the girl who burned down the Kadinger place and killed him and his daughter.” If convicted, the accused woman “would be hooded, noosed, and dropped from the scaffold with the public and an avid cadre of newspaper reporters looking on.” There is a lot at stake in this book, with plenty of suspenseful twists and turns that mystery lovers will enjoy – plus a satisfying and unexpected ending. An enjoyable read with well-developed characters and tons of atmosphere pulled straight from the 19th century. Highly recommended.
Garnick and Paschal is a detective agency with a twist. One of the partners—Quinn Sinclair—has disguised herself as Mrs. Paschal to conceal her identity as a single woman with an Irish background—a deception that is essential to her professional advancement in the 1860’s. Quinn and Garnick have a lot in common: Her independence was hard won after years of living as a widow under the thumb of her mother-in-law after her husband died, and Garnick knows what it’s like to be imprisoned, having spent two years soldiering in the Confederate Army and another two as a prisoner of war in a disease-infested camp. They also share a sense of humor rooted in having survived many difficult circumstances and readers will enjoy watching their rapport grow stronger as their investigations throw even more violent obstacles in their shared path. All this leads to a budding romance about which I will say no more in this “spoiler-free” review.
DEVIL BY THE TAIL begins with the partners taking on an assignment to help an unlikable client clear his name of a murder, a case that quickly intersects with an investigation for a dodgy lawyer who is defending “the girl who burned down the Kadinger place and killed him and his daughter.” If convicted, the accused woman “would be hooded, noosed, and dropped from the scaffold with the public and an avid cadre of newspaper reporters looking on.” There is a lot at stake in this book, with plenty of suspenseful twists and turns that mystery lovers will enjoy – plus a satisfying and unexpected ending. An enjoyable read with well-developed characters and tons of atmosphere pulled straight from the 19th century. Highly recommended.
April 9, 2021
Chicago in 1867 was an interesting place, and the author captured it beautifully. The two main characters were appealing - I was rooting for them from the very beginning. The sights, sounds and smells of the era were depicted with realism, and the language felt authentic. A great read.
April 14, 2021
I love reading mysteries featuring women who live in a historical time and place but who, with a change of clothes, would be at home in my world too. Quinn Sinclair, a young Chicago resident recently widowed by the Civil War, is such a woman. During a brief stint working for the Pinkertons, Quinn became interested in detective work. She teams up with Mr. Garnick, a widower and ex-confederate soldier, to start a detective agency of their own. Their ever-evolving relationship is delightful to follow and their living arrangement very 21st century. Their business starts slowly on a low budget, but they have a tiny office, business cards, and an extremely unwitting (as in dead) client. Good at disguising herself and thinking fast, Quinn also packs heat and doesn’t miss. Fingering the killer draws her and Garnick into different and dangerous situations in the busy and crowded town, its river, and even its surrounding wooded places. The Windy City literally blares and honks with the noises of industrial machines, boats, and trains. Corruption abounds. And ethnic and political differences are rarely hidden. But it’s not only the people and places in this book I love. It’s the language. Mathews does dialogue and description like nobody else. Garnick uses words that were common then and tickle us now. Everybody has some sort of accent. Mathews knows how her 19th Century Chicagoans would have spoken and made me hear and understand them. In fact, I hated to leave them when this book ended. I’m eager to read the sequel.
July 21, 2021
I have read and enjoyed most (all?) of the books in Jeanne Matthews’ Dinah Pelerin series, but haven’t seen a new title in that series for several years. So I was a little surprised to see that Matthews had a brand-new book in a brand-new series coming out in July, 2021. I was fortunate enough to be granted an advance review copy of Devil by the Tail, and I liked it a lot.
Matthews starts her new series with an interesting premise: what happens when a Union widow and an ex-Confederate soldier start a detective agency together in Chicago, just after the war? She then adds in some uncooperative former in-laws for the widow; a couple of odd-ball cases that may or may not be related, but almost certainly won't pay very much; and a little (actually, more than a little) corruption among the city’s powerful elite. The result is a thoroughly enjoyable historical mystery. Having myself been an engineer in a time when there weren’t many female engineers, I especially liked watching the widow, Quinn Sinclair, work to establish herself and her business in another field that wasn’t all that friendly to women, even though she was a graduate of the Pinkerton Detective Agency. Finally, there’s also a bit of female-male tension between Quinn, who uses the name “Mrs. Paschal” professionally, and her partner, Garnick, to liven things up.
One small disclosure: I’m always a bit biased towards historical mysteries, especially when they are in a time or place that is new to me, and post-Civil-War Chicago, with all its energy, and all its flaws, was certainly a new setting for me. But even without my natural bias, I found Devil by the Tail to be a well-written mystery with engaging characters, and I hope there are more books to come in the series. I tend to be quite sparing with five-star reviews, so for me, a four-star review is a solid “read” recommendation, and that’s what Devil by the Tail gets. And my thanks to publisher DX Varos, and to NetGalley, for the review copy.
Matthews starts her new series with an interesting premise: what happens when a Union widow and an ex-Confederate soldier start a detective agency together in Chicago, just after the war? She then adds in some uncooperative former in-laws for the widow; a couple of odd-ball cases that may or may not be related, but almost certainly won't pay very much; and a little (actually, more than a little) corruption among the city’s powerful elite. The result is a thoroughly enjoyable historical mystery. Having myself been an engineer in a time when there weren’t many female engineers, I especially liked watching the widow, Quinn Sinclair, work to establish herself and her business in another field that wasn’t all that friendly to women, even though she was a graduate of the Pinkerton Detective Agency. Finally, there’s also a bit of female-male tension between Quinn, who uses the name “Mrs. Paschal” professionally, and her partner, Garnick, to liven things up.
One small disclosure: I’m always a bit biased towards historical mysteries, especially when they are in a time or place that is new to me, and post-Civil-War Chicago, with all its energy, and all its flaws, was certainly a new setting for me. But even without my natural bias, I found Devil by the Tail to be a well-written mystery with engaging characters, and I hope there are more books to come in the series. I tend to be quite sparing with five-star reviews, so for me, a four-star review is a solid “read” recommendation, and that’s what Devil by the Tail gets. And my thanks to publisher DX Varos, and to NetGalley, for the review copy.
May 7, 2021
Devil By The Tail is a rollicking mystery filled with astonishing twists and turns. Chicago, 1867: Quinn, a Union Civil War widow trained by the Pinkerton Detective Agency, and her partner, Garnick, a former Confederate prisoner of war and survivor of the infamous Camp Douglas, hope to get their fledgling detective agency going when a stranger walks through their door. The man, accused of strangling his wife six-months earlier, claims he knows who really killed her and will pay to locate the culprit. Meanwhile, Quinn’s lawyer wants the agency to find character witnesses for a woman accused of setting a housefire that killed two prominent individuals.
Accepting these cases leads Quinn and Garnick through the upper crust and the underbelly of the historic Windy City. Jeanne Matthews, author of the Dinah Pelerin mysteries, introduces us to some unforgettable characters, including a sassy brothel owner, kind prostitutes, and several questionable local officials. Leading the cast is Quinn, a gutsy, independent woman, who is attracted to her partner, Garnick, but tries not to let it distract from her job.
With captivating characters, authentic dialogue and a gripping plot, Devil By The Tail will keep you turning the pages until its surprising and satisfying ending. It’s a fun, adventurous book, that I thoroughly enjoyed!
Accepting these cases leads Quinn and Garnick through the upper crust and the underbelly of the historic Windy City. Jeanne Matthews, author of the Dinah Pelerin mysteries, introduces us to some unforgettable characters, including a sassy brothel owner, kind prostitutes, and several questionable local officials. Leading the cast is Quinn, a gutsy, independent woman, who is attracted to her partner, Garnick, but tries not to let it distract from her job.
With captivating characters, authentic dialogue and a gripping plot, Devil By The Tail will keep you turning the pages until its surprising and satisfying ending. It’s a fun, adventurous book, that I thoroughly enjoyed!
March 2, 2022
This entertaining fair play puzzle takes us into the world of post-Civil War Chicago, with all of the graft, corruption, and mayhem you might expect.
Widow Quinn Sinclair, having attended the Pinkerton Detective School, partners with a former Confederate soldier to establish a private detective agency. She's fighting for her share of her late husband's estate and fund are thin on the ground. So, when Ned Handish appears, greenbacks in hand, to have the agency prove him innocent of a crime, Quinn readily accepts.
And then Handish ends up dead.
We get a look at Chicago's less savory aspects, as Quinn and Garnick interview prostitutes, local "heavies" and more. We also see some of the strictures and prejudices both Quinn and Garnick must face due to standing out from expected social roles.
And, of course, we see Quinn and Garnick struggle to remain professional despite their attraction to one another -- and the chemistry is real!
As I mentioned at the outset, this book is a fair play puzzle. All of the clues are there, right from the beginning. However, there were plenty of red herrings to put readers off the scent, and the whodunnit came as quite a surprise. Highly recommended.
Widow Quinn Sinclair, having attended the Pinkerton Detective School, partners with a former Confederate soldier to establish a private detective agency. She's fighting for her share of her late husband's estate and fund are thin on the ground. So, when Ned Handish appears, greenbacks in hand, to have the agency prove him innocent of a crime, Quinn readily accepts.
And then Handish ends up dead.
We get a look at Chicago's less savory aspects, as Quinn and Garnick interview prostitutes, local "heavies" and more. We also see some of the strictures and prejudices both Quinn and Garnick must face due to standing out from expected social roles.
And, of course, we see Quinn and Garnick struggle to remain professional despite their attraction to one another -- and the chemistry is real!
As I mentioned at the outset, this book is a fair play puzzle. All of the clues are there, right from the beginning. However, there were plenty of red herrings to put readers off the scent, and the whodunnit came as quite a surprise. Highly recommended.
April 23, 2021
(This book was sent to me as an advanced copy) I blasted through Devil by the Tail by Jeanne Matthews. It is a fast moving, complex, who-done-it, set in post Civil War Chicago. The protagonist, Quinn Sullivan, is a young widow who has recently completed training as a Pinkerton Detective and (with a former Confederate prisoner of war) started a detective agency. This was, at the time and for a woman, a more shocking career choice than prostitution but Quinn proves her grit through multiple setbacks and challenges.
Ms. Matthews captures the era masterfully through setting, atmosphere, and characters. We meet gamblers, prostitutes, corrupt politicians and scoundrels of all sorts -- as well as good and decent folks. I highly recommend this novel for all who love a good mystery with an intriguing plot and fascinating characters. I challenge you to figure out who-done-it before the final reveal!
Ms. Matthews captures the era masterfully through setting, atmosphere, and characters. We meet gamblers, prostitutes, corrupt politicians and scoundrels of all sorts -- as well as good and decent folks. I highly recommend this novel for all who love a good mystery with an intriguing plot and fascinating characters. I challenge you to figure out who-done-it before the final reveal!
July 24, 2021
Devil by the Tail is a historical mystery set in Chicago in 1867, two years after the end of the Civil War, and author Jeanne Matthews gives readers an intriguing look at the post-war activity that occurred during that time. In this story, crime is rampant and young private investigator Quinn Sinclair finds herself involved in murder, dirty politics, and two apparently different cases that may actually be connected. Quinn, also known as Mrs. Paschal, is aided by Garnick, a former Rebel prisoner of war, and it appears that their business partnership is about to take on a more personal element.
Matthews teases readers with clever hints and clues, as she challenges us to solve the mystery ourselves. We are also shown that preconceived notions can color our thinking about people and their professions. Devil by the Tail is an entertaining story with engaging characters, a thought-provoking plot, and just enough romance to make it alluring!
I received a copy of this book from the author via Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours. There was no expectation of a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
Matthews teases readers with clever hints and clues, as she challenges us to solve the mystery ourselves. We are also shown that preconceived notions can color our thinking about people and their professions. Devil by the Tail is an entertaining story with engaging characters, a thought-provoking plot, and just enough romance to make it alluring!
I received a copy of this book from the author via Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours. There was no expectation of a positive review. These are my own thoughts.
June 22, 2021
The year is 1867, meet Garnick & Paschal Private Detectives – Garnick, ex-Confederated soldier, and Mrs. Paschal, a graduate of the Pinkerton Detective Agency, who really is Quinn Sinclair. Still in the early stages of their detecting, two cases really turn out to be one case? A great start to what I hope with many more adventures. I loved the way Jeanne Matthews describes the characters, police, politicians, prostitutes, … Fast paced read, laugh out loud at the expressions used (I so love the word ‘bamboozled’)
Thank you to NetGalley and D.X. Varos for an early copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and D.X. Varos for an early copy.
July 22, 2021
This is a well written mystery with a cast of strong characters and an intriguing story line. The author does a great job building the story and had me glued to the pages with this who-done-it set in post Civil War Chicago. She brings the story to life with her detailed and descriptive scenes giving a realistic feel. She moves the story fluidly and delivers a great romantic suspense. Loved and highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
July 5, 2021
Historical mysteries appeal to me a lot, depending on the time period, but I have to say I haven’t encountered many books focused shortly after the Civil War. The setting alone of Devil by the Tail gives this series debut a special element that is fresh and intriguing.
Ms. Matthews takes things a step further, really a leap further, by pairing a northern lady with a former Confederate POW, surely not an every day occurrence, and the compatibility of the two was the best part of the story. (In today’s world of hostility and mean spiritedness, we could use a healthy dose of their willingness to get past their differences.)
Well, having said that, I have to backtrack a little to say that the plot here, the work that Quinn Sinclair (using the name Mrs. Paschal) and Garnick are doing as private detectives, is just as compelling as their choice to partner up. Since this is Chicago of the 1860’s, Quinn naturally has a lot of societal barriers in her way and I love her ability to find ways around them as well as Garnick’s’s willingness to aid and abet her rebellion against the rules.
When Garnick and Paschal accept a job looking into the case of a man wrongfully accused (so he says) of killing his wife, they have no idea how murky things are going to get, especially when a second case, to prove reasonable doubt that a woman murdered her ex-lover’s bride, starts to look like there may be a connection between the two crimes. The seedy underbelly of 1867 Chicago with its brothels and yellow journalism is on full display and adds greatly to the reader’s fun. On top of the detectives’ professional work, there’s also the interesting question of what will happen in Quinn’s unpleasant dealings with her inlaws.
Ms. Matthews is well known for her vividly descriptive settings and her impeccable research, not to mention the authenticity of her language, and I enjoyed Devil by the Tail so much that it’s going on my list of best books read in 2021.
Ms. Matthews takes things a step further, really a leap further, by pairing a northern lady with a former Confederate POW, surely not an every day occurrence, and the compatibility of the two was the best part of the story. (In today’s world of hostility and mean spiritedness, we could use a healthy dose of their willingness to get past their differences.)
Well, having said that, I have to backtrack a little to say that the plot here, the work that Quinn Sinclair (using the name Mrs. Paschal) and Garnick are doing as private detectives, is just as compelling as their choice to partner up. Since this is Chicago of the 1860’s, Quinn naturally has a lot of societal barriers in her way and I love her ability to find ways around them as well as Garnick’s’s willingness to aid and abet her rebellion against the rules.
When Garnick and Paschal accept a job looking into the case of a man wrongfully accused (so he says) of killing his wife, they have no idea how murky things are going to get, especially when a second case, to prove reasonable doubt that a woman murdered her ex-lover’s bride, starts to look like there may be a connection between the two crimes. The seedy underbelly of 1867 Chicago with its brothels and yellow journalism is on full display and adds greatly to the reader’s fun. On top of the detectives’ professional work, there’s also the interesting question of what will happen in Quinn’s unpleasant dealings with her inlaws.
Ms. Matthews is well known for her vividly descriptive settings and her impeccable research, not to mention the authenticity of her language, and I enjoyed Devil by the Tail so much that it’s going on my list of best books read in 2021.
July 18, 2021
Another great historical fiction read! I thoroughly enjoyed being along for the ride as Quinn seeks the truth about a fire, dirty politicians, murder, and betrayal.
She is a great character with her wit & courage, but also her empathy and willingness to fight for not only what she believes in, but also to see others in a new light instead of taking society's views at face value.
Matthews did a great job building the world in which Garnick & Paschal solve crime together while also allowing the reader their chance to put all the pieces of the mystery together themselves.
She is a great character with her wit & courage, but also her empathy and willingness to fight for not only what she believes in, but also to see others in a new light instead of taking society's views at face value.
Matthews did a great job building the world in which Garnick & Paschal solve crime together while also allowing the reader their chance to put all the pieces of the mystery together themselves.
May 12, 2021
Devil by the Tail is a superb historical P.I. mystery! Set in Chicago just two years after the end of the Civil War, it features Quinn Sinclair, the widow of a Union soldier, and Mr. Garnick, and ex-Confederate soldier. Together, they start a private detective agency. You would think there would be conflict between this unlikely pair, but they work well together and there is even a bit of romance as their relationship evolves. Forging ahead with the case of a woman accused of arson and murder, the author, Matthews, masterfully evokes the post-Civil War era of historical Chicago, while convincingly displaying her command of the lingo and mores of that bygone time. Oh, did I mention suspense? It builds and builds as Quinn and Garnick's case is finally solved -- solved most satisfyingly with a touch of humor and romance, even in those rough & tumble times. I cannot wait to read the next book, as Devil by the Tail provides the reader with multiple layers of enjoyment. Huzzah!
June 15, 2021
1867 Chicago. Mrs Quinn Sinclair aka Mrs Paschal, widow of a a Union soldier has teamed up with Garnick, an ex-Confederate soldier to form a detective agency. At the moment they have two cases, but there are it seems, connections between them. Can they solve the cases while their lives are being threatened.
An entertaining well-written historical mystery with its likeable main characters. A good start to the series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
An entertaining well-written historical mystery with its likeable main characters. A good start to the series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2021
This was a very enjoyable read. I don't think I have read much set in Chicago in this era and I really enjoyed the backdrop. I thought Quinn was a great character and I like seeing how she and Garnick work together. It is nice to see her be so competent in every situation thrown at her. I really liked these characters and I hope to see more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 7, 2021
A Devilishly Good Mystery!
Jeanne Matthews has written a wonderful mystery novel set in Chicago, shortly after the Civil War. She has a gift for bringing the period to life and filling it with engaging characters. Moreover, she’s created a cracking good whodunit! This looks to be the start of an outstanding series. I strongly recommend this to anyone who enjoys period-pieces and mysteries in general. You won’t be disappointed. 5-stars!
Jeanne Matthews has written a wonderful mystery novel set in Chicago, shortly after the Civil War. She has a gift for bringing the period to life and filling it with engaging characters. Moreover, she’s created a cracking good whodunit! This looks to be the start of an outstanding series. I strongly recommend this to anyone who enjoys period-pieces and mysteries in general. You won’t be disappointed. 5-stars!
July 4, 2021
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.
Quinn Sinclair is a young widow who lost her husband during the Civil War. She teams up with a POW to form a detective agency in Chicago - 1867. As you can imagine - it is quite unusual for her to be a detective, let alone a partner in a business. The agency takes on two cases that seem to be non-related, but are they?
In addition to a murder and arson they are trying to solve, there are other factors at hand including a madam's house - two in fact!!! Add to that someone tries to murder Quinn - it is going to be an interesting read.
I really enjoyed how authentic the book came across - I could picture the times and the fashion.
Quinn Sinclair is a young widow who lost her husband during the Civil War. She teams up with a POW to form a detective agency in Chicago - 1867. As you can imagine - it is quite unusual for her to be a detective, let alone a partner in a business. The agency takes on two cases that seem to be non-related, but are they?
In addition to a murder and arson they are trying to solve, there are other factors at hand including a madam's house - two in fact!!! Add to that someone tries to murder Quinn - it is going to be an interesting read.
I really enjoyed how authentic the book came across - I could picture the times and the fashion.
June 28, 2021
Set in bustling and raucous Chicago in the nineteenth century, this book is about more than "merely" murder and greasing palms. The author also includes historical details such as the coverture law, ambrotypes, role of the night soil workers and the massive Cosby's Opera House.
In an era when the majority of women are homemakers, detective Quinn takes people off guard and I think she enjoys their discomfiture! Her colleague Garnick recognizes the need for a woman's presence and skill set so they are complementary. When murder rears its ugly head, they investigate and no area in Chicago is off limits, including unsavoury gambling houses and brothels. But when it appears someone wants Quinn out of the way, the investigation intensifies. Deceit, danger and secrets are rife.
My favourite aspect of this book is the history injected into it. I'm not particularly fond of one of the relationships as it does not feel convincing. But the writing is lovely and the details got and kept my attention.
My sincere thank you to D.X. Varos, Ltd. and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this arresting book.
In an era when the majority of women are homemakers, detective Quinn takes people off guard and I think she enjoys their discomfiture! Her colleague Garnick recognizes the need for a woman's presence and skill set so they are complementary. When murder rears its ugly head, they investigate and no area in Chicago is off limits, including unsavoury gambling houses and brothels. But when it appears someone wants Quinn out of the way, the investigation intensifies. Deceit, danger and secrets are rife.
My favourite aspect of this book is the history injected into it. I'm not particularly fond of one of the relationships as it does not feel convincing. But the writing is lovely and the details got and kept my attention.
My sincere thank you to D.X. Varos, Ltd. and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this arresting book.
June 23, 2021
So, I liked this book and I didn't. For starts, I thought the author is a good writer. The words flowed very well and I didn't have to stop and reread parts to see what she was trying to say. I loved the idea of a female detective during that time period, trying to make a place for herself as an independent woman. That being said, I did not appreciate that a lot of the book took place in a brothel. I was also very taken aback at the timing of when our hero and heroine decided to give in to one another and have a physical relationship. I just don't buy it. It was such a jarring note for me that I really couldn't get past it and enjoy the rest of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and D.X. Varos for an early copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and D.X. Varos for an early copy.
June 21, 2021
Excellent piece.
A wonderfully twisted mystery I loved it. It did not have what you would call a happy ending but the ending was good. The story of who started the fire lead the two detectives Garnick and Quinn down a rabbit hole. But wait dear reader because there is more than one mystery in this book. There is the one surrounding Quinn too plus so much more. This book has so many bad guys it is hard to keep count. It was an excellent book that I hope you check out. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
A wonderfully twisted mystery I loved it. It did not have what you would call a happy ending but the ending was good. The story of who started the fire lead the two detectives Garnick and Quinn down a rabbit hole. But wait dear reader because there is more than one mystery in this book. There is the one surrounding Quinn too plus so much more. This book has so many bad guys it is hard to keep count. It was an excellent book that I hope you check out. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
July 3, 2021
This is an intriguing picture of post civil war Chicago where crime resides in abundance. We see murder, prostitution, and just about every other thing you'd encounter in the city's underbelly. The characters are complex and their dialogue resounds of a bygone era. There are phrases and descriptions that you won't see used today.
The cases that these two up and coming detectives sus out are indeed quite the puzzle. This whodunit mystery will keep you flipping through these pages as we learn more and more. If you like mystery and romance, don't miss out on this new series.
The cases that these two up and coming detectives sus out are indeed quite the puzzle. This whodunit mystery will keep you flipping through these pages as we learn more and more. If you like mystery and romance, don't miss out on this new series.
July 29, 2021
🕯 The Devil by The Tail 🕯
A Garnick & Paschal Mystery
✒️ Jeanne Matthews
https://m.facebook.com/JMmystery/
Release Date 07/20/2021
Publisher D. X. Varos, Ltd.
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092T36MZ1/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
What's a 20-something Union war widow to do in 1867? Start up her own detective agency with a former Reb POW, of course!
Quinn Sinclair, who uses the name Mrs. Paschal professionally, and her wryly observant partner Garnick get two cases on the same day - one to help a man prove he didn't kill his wife, another to help a lawyer find reasonable doubt that his client killed her ex-lover's new bride. As the detectives dig deeper, they unearth facts that tie the cases together in disturbing ways.
This tantalizing tale of 19th Century Chicago comes complete with corrupt politicians, yellow-press reporters, gambling parlors, and colorful bawdyhouse madams. At every turn in the investigation, Quinn discovers more suspects and more secret motives for murder.
Not least among her worries, someone seems intent on murdering her!
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to bring the right culprit to justice …
When I saw this tour opening, I had no knowledge of this author and the period and place setting were intriguing.
So, as an historical romance reader I have noted that many mysteries are told for the first person point of view and mainly from one main character even when it is a duet or team.
This book is an astonishing well written multilayered read, the language is colorful and vivid, I had to slow my reading to understand the meaning of every sentence (I’m French!). The author seized perfectly the period and the people and put them into words which infused them to life, as flawed as they were.
The beginning lands us straight into the subject. There is no back story at first, only two people circumstances brought together and from there the author will patch here and there the blank spaces.
I did not bothered me, as I often discover a series in the middle of it, I have to work a bit to catch up with the protagonists history. In fact, I loved it, with the much complex mystery the duet investigate, discovering about their relationship was the breath of fresh air the HR reader I am loved. I am probably biased.
Quinn’s widowhood left her near destitute as she never was able to mend the bridge with her in-laws, with only her widow portion, she needs a paying activity to make ends meet. A tragic event put Garnick on her path, from there began their association under the Paschal alias for her to manage people sensibilities of a woman working as a detective.
Sure, by the end of this first book, I had still some questions, like how she came to train as a Pinkerton, but I felt like I had a grasp of who is Quinn Sinclair.
As the story is told from her point of view, Garnick is much more a conundrum, he comes and goes at his own pace. He hides a lot, not because those are shameful secrets, much more I suppose to spare Quinn’s sensibilities and as he is attracted to her to not make her flee.
I won’t say much about the cases as those are complex and intertwined and as the plot unfolded linked more and more powerful people to them.
Suffice to say that at one time :
« There’s nothing for it now. Nothing to lose. Go on and pull the Devil by the tail. Pull it and hand on till you’re licked or he is. »
The last twist surprised me as I did not saw how the villain could get its deserved comeuppance after the path the investigation had taken.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by the author and Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tour. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #romancebookstagrammer #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #historicalmystery #historicalfiction #historicalmysterybook
A Garnick & Paschal Mystery
✒️ Jeanne Matthews
https://m.facebook.com/JMmystery/
Release Date 07/20/2021
Publisher D. X. Varos, Ltd.
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092T36MZ1/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
What's a 20-something Union war widow to do in 1867? Start up her own detective agency with a former Reb POW, of course!
Quinn Sinclair, who uses the name Mrs. Paschal professionally, and her wryly observant partner Garnick get two cases on the same day - one to help a man prove he didn't kill his wife, another to help a lawyer find reasonable doubt that his client killed her ex-lover's new bride. As the detectives dig deeper, they unearth facts that tie the cases together in disturbing ways.
This tantalizing tale of 19th Century Chicago comes complete with corrupt politicians, yellow-press reporters, gambling parlors, and colorful bawdyhouse madams. At every turn in the investigation, Quinn discovers more suspects and more secret motives for murder.
Not least among her worries, someone seems intent on murdering her!
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will they be able to bring the right culprit to justice …
When I saw this tour opening, I had no knowledge of this author and the period and place setting were intriguing.
So, as an historical romance reader I have noted that many mysteries are told for the first person point of view and mainly from one main character even when it is a duet or team.
This book is an astonishing well written multilayered read, the language is colorful and vivid, I had to slow my reading to understand the meaning of every sentence (I’m French!). The author seized perfectly the period and the people and put them into words which infused them to life, as flawed as they were.
The beginning lands us straight into the subject. There is no back story at first, only two people circumstances brought together and from there the author will patch here and there the blank spaces.
I did not bothered me, as I often discover a series in the middle of it, I have to work a bit to catch up with the protagonists history. In fact, I loved it, with the much complex mystery the duet investigate, discovering about their relationship was the breath of fresh air the HR reader I am loved. I am probably biased.
Quinn’s widowhood left her near destitute as she never was able to mend the bridge with her in-laws, with only her widow portion, she needs a paying activity to make ends meet. A tragic event put Garnick on her path, from there began their association under the Paschal alias for her to manage people sensibilities of a woman working as a detective.
Sure, by the end of this first book, I had still some questions, like how she came to train as a Pinkerton, but I felt like I had a grasp of who is Quinn Sinclair.
As the story is told from her point of view, Garnick is much more a conundrum, he comes and goes at his own pace. He hides a lot, not because those are shameful secrets, much more I suppose to spare Quinn’s sensibilities and as he is attracted to her to not make her flee.
I won’t say much about the cases as those are complex and intertwined and as the plot unfolded linked more and more powerful people to them.
Suffice to say that at one time :
« There’s nothing for it now. Nothing to lose. Go on and pull the Devil by the tail. Pull it and hand on till you’re licked or he is. »
The last twist surprised me as I did not saw how the villain could get its deserved comeuppance after the path the investigation had taken.
5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by the author and Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tour. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #romancebookstagrammer #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #historicalmystery #historicalfiction #historicalmysterybook
July 23, 2021
Devil by the Tail by Jeanne Matthews is a detective novel taking place in or around 1866 in Chicago. In a time when private detectives were not really de rigueur, a female detective was even less likely, but such was the case with Gabriel Garnick and Quinn Sinclair. Quinn was a widow of a Civil War soldier, fighting with her in-laws for her husband's estate. Garnick was a veteran who had fought for the Confederacy but had ended up in a Unions prison in Chicago. Quinn went by Pascal as using her relay name would not be helpful in getting her inheritance. She had a lawyer called Winthrop who didn't appear to be all that helpful in her quest. They received a case from him one day. He needed assistance in proving his client, innocent. He was willing to trade her fee for the lawsuit with his fee for his client. Seemed reasonable. At the same time, a man named Handish appeared, want assistance in finding the man he claimed had murder his wife (out of town) and left him as the only suspect. They were both complicated cases, but led the detectives to question many of the same witnesses. Very odd.
This was a compelling mystery, with clues that didn't always add up. Being clever detectives they eventually made sense of all of it, and even saw the bad guy, mostly get his punishment, although not as one might suspect. There was a great deal of governmental fraud involved, but, sadly, that existed even then. There was also an entertaining, if not totally honest, reporter. Again, not new news. What made the book so worth reading was the situation of women at the time, as well as transportation. Both caused problems and made for interesting turns of the plot. A really good exposé on greed, which is often behind any mystery. There were good people, as well. It was an entertaining book, for lovers of historical mystery. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Devil by the Tail (clever title) by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #devilbythetail
This was a compelling mystery, with clues that didn't always add up. Being clever detectives they eventually made sense of all of it, and even saw the bad guy, mostly get his punishment, although not as one might suspect. There was a great deal of governmental fraud involved, but, sadly, that existed even then. There was also an entertaining, if not totally honest, reporter. Again, not new news. What made the book so worth reading was the situation of women at the time, as well as transportation. Both caused problems and made for interesting turns of the plot. A really good exposé on greed, which is often behind any mystery. There were good people, as well. It was an entertaining book, for lovers of historical mystery. I recommend it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Devil by the Tail (clever title) by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #devilbythetail
July 22, 2021
Books like these often make me want to travel back in time to see what life was like. Wild Wild West is the way of this novel, and I love it! Garnick & Paschal is a detective agency in Chicago that takes on some unusual cases, but they do their best to find all facts and are fair, although the other unusual thing about them, is that one is a female and Irish at that and one is an ex-Confederate POW. Often mistaken as Garnick’s secretary, Paschal a.k.a. Mrs. Quinn Sinclair and Garnick quickly find themselves tangled in a mess of cases that are all too mingled to seem a coincidence.
Garnick and Sinclair use their strengths to fluff out witnesses and to search for more names in the case of a fire where father and daughter perished, and quickly obtain information for another case they just took on of a man accused of murder. Soon the two also find themselves in the midst of gunfire and wonder if someone wants to stop them before they hardly have gotten started.
Finding themselves in seedy areas of the post war Chicago, they use Sinclair to their advantage being a woman, to insert herself into situations to obtain information and often Garnick has to swoop in to get them out of sticky situations, but in the end they find the answers they need, albeit it’s not an easy maze of pointing fingers, witnesses, he said she said, and shady characters that don’t want themselves found out.
I loved that this novel took off without a hitch, and you were in a whirlwind of the two cases and trying to figure out what was going to happen next. Thank you to the author for the free novel, I will be reading more of these as I am curious to see where Garnick and Sinclair go from here. I also love reading about woman in roles that were seen as a mans world only, and how they often used it to their advantage. Thank you also to HFVBT for the invite!
Garnick and Sinclair use their strengths to fluff out witnesses and to search for more names in the case of a fire where father and daughter perished, and quickly obtain information for another case they just took on of a man accused of murder. Soon the two also find themselves in the midst of gunfire and wonder if someone wants to stop them before they hardly have gotten started.
Finding themselves in seedy areas of the post war Chicago, they use Sinclair to their advantage being a woman, to insert herself into situations to obtain information and often Garnick has to swoop in to get them out of sticky situations, but in the end they find the answers they need, albeit it’s not an easy maze of pointing fingers, witnesses, he said she said, and shady characters that don’t want themselves found out.
I loved that this novel took off without a hitch, and you were in a whirlwind of the two cases and trying to figure out what was going to happen next. Thank you to the author for the free novel, I will be reading more of these as I am curious to see where Garnick and Sinclair go from here. I also love reading about woman in roles that were seen as a mans world only, and how they often used it to their advantage. Thank you also to HFVBT for the invite!
Read
September 16, 2021I learned about this novel through a historical fiction group on Facebook that I’m a member of. The cover caught my eye and the blurb was intriguing so I decided to give it a try.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The characters, especially Paschal, were empathetic and intriguing. I loved the fact that Paschal was an independent woman very much ahead of her time. The author does a great job of (subtly) exploring the challenges faced by women of the day. Her depiction feels nuanced and true to life. The author also deftly explores a number of other social issues in the novel, which I appreciated. Paschal’s character grows and changes throughout the novel in a (mostly) believable way and this aspect of the story was satisfying.
Additionally, the author paints a vivid picture of Chicago itself during the time period in which the story is set (1860s). I loved all of the details she incorporated—the horses and carts, the dresses (and bonnets!) the women wear, how (and what) the characters eat and drink, and more. Matthews writing style further brings the story to life. She does an excellent job with her characters’ dialogue and this too kept me turning pages.
If I have a criticism of the story, it would be that the mystery itself wasn’t quite as compelling as I expected it to be, though it was intriguing, and everything tied up in a (mostly) logical way. Still, I’m hoping there will be a book 2 in this series as I’m looking forward to seeing where Garnick and Paschal’s next case takes them.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. The characters, especially Paschal, were empathetic and intriguing. I loved the fact that Paschal was an independent woman very much ahead of her time. The author does a great job of (subtly) exploring the challenges faced by women of the day. Her depiction feels nuanced and true to life. The author also deftly explores a number of other social issues in the novel, which I appreciated. Paschal’s character grows and changes throughout the novel in a (mostly) believable way and this aspect of the story was satisfying.
Additionally, the author paints a vivid picture of Chicago itself during the time period in which the story is set (1860s). I loved all of the details she incorporated—the horses and carts, the dresses (and bonnets!) the women wear, how (and what) the characters eat and drink, and more. Matthews writing style further brings the story to life. She does an excellent job with her characters’ dialogue and this too kept me turning pages.
If I have a criticism of the story, it would be that the mystery itself wasn’t quite as compelling as I expected it to be, though it was intriguing, and everything tied up in a (mostly) logical way. Still, I’m hoping there will be a book 2 in this series as I’m looking forward to seeing where Garnick and Paschal’s next case takes them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2023
On its surface, DEVIL BY THE TAIL appears to have everything I want from a novel: a rich, colorful historical setting; an intriguing, compelling mystery; a strong, complex heroine; and more. Considering all these elements, plus its evocative cover, I really should have loved this book. Why didn't I? Easy. It's boring. The first time I tried to read it, I put it down after the first chapter. This time, I forced myself to finish it only because I needed a book set in Illinois to complete a reading challenge. Otherwise, I would have DNF'd it permanently.
DEVIL BY THE TAIL isn't a terrible book. I've definitely read worse. It just isn't very engaging. There's plenty going on in the busy Chicago backdrop, but the setting doesn't come alive like it should. It feels flat. Same goes for Matthews' characters. Quinn and Garnick are likable, sure, but they're just not very dynamic. I couldn't feel any real chemistry between them. The rest of the cast members blur together. Keeping all the oily men and soiled doves straight is tough since none of them stand out or have much personality. I never felt connected to any of them. DEVIL BY THE TAIL's convoluted plot doesn't help matters, nor does the fact that it's slow, slow, slow. As I said, reading it just felt like a long, dull slog. I finished the book, which is saying something, but honestly, it was only because I had to in order to rock my reading challenge.
If I could, I would give this book 2 1/2 stars; since I can't, I'm rounding up.
DEVIL BY THE TAIL isn't a terrible book. I've definitely read worse. It just isn't very engaging. There's plenty going on in the busy Chicago backdrop, but the setting doesn't come alive like it should. It feels flat. Same goes for Matthews' characters. Quinn and Garnick are likable, sure, but they're just not very dynamic. I couldn't feel any real chemistry between them. The rest of the cast members blur together. Keeping all the oily men and soiled doves straight is tough since none of them stand out or have much personality. I never felt connected to any of them. DEVIL BY THE TAIL's convoluted plot doesn't help matters, nor does the fact that it's slow, slow, slow. As I said, reading it just felt like a long, dull slog. I finished the book, which is saying something, but honestly, it was only because I had to in order to rock my reading challenge.
If I could, I would give this book 2 1/2 stars; since I can't, I'm rounding up.
May 31, 2021
Jeanne Matthews has turned her considerable talent to historical crime, serving up a lush mystery that moves at the speed of a racing heart. With a deft touch, she weaves a colorful tapestry of life in 1867 Chicago, where wealthy elites preyed upon the avarice of middle class strivers and the desperation of the poor and dissolute alike.
Like the best historical novels, DEVIL BY THE TAIL holds up a mirror to the present even as it reflects and illuminates the past. A young widow with professional aspirations, Quinn Paschal faces challenges only too familiar today, yet at no point does she seem like a woman out of time. With Garnick, her partner in a nascent private detective agency, she works not only to save a woman facing the gallows for a crime she didn’t commit, but to do so in a way that won’t compromise her values or her ambitions—despite the many roadblocks thrown up by a society with little room for an independent woman of talent, intelligence, and grit. She must also make sense of her complicated feelings for Garnick, a man with a tragic past who seems to want more than a professional relationship.
Jeanne Matthews ties all this together into a crisp, clever mystery full of wit, rich history, and no lack of heart. I couldn’t stop turning the pages, and when it was over, all I could hope was that there’d be more of Garnick and Paschal to come.
Like the best historical novels, DEVIL BY THE TAIL holds up a mirror to the present even as it reflects and illuminates the past. A young widow with professional aspirations, Quinn Paschal faces challenges only too familiar today, yet at no point does she seem like a woman out of time. With Garnick, her partner in a nascent private detective agency, she works not only to save a woman facing the gallows for a crime she didn’t commit, but to do so in a way that won’t compromise her values or her ambitions—despite the many roadblocks thrown up by a society with little room for an independent woman of talent, intelligence, and grit. She must also make sense of her complicated feelings for Garnick, a man with a tragic past who seems to want more than a professional relationship.
Jeanne Matthews ties all this together into a crisp, clever mystery full of wit, rich history, and no lack of heart. I couldn’t stop turning the pages, and when it was over, all I could hope was that there’d be more of Garnick and Paschal to come.
July 22, 2021
Jeanne Matthews introduces an engaging new mystery series with Devil by the Tail.
Set in post-Civil War Chicago, it centers around widow Quinn Sinclair "Paschal" and her partner former Confederate soldier Garnick. The two have partnered in a detective agency and we are quickly immersed in two seemingly unrelated cases.
The setting and action is interesting and fast paced and I'm curious to see how the series progresses.
I did feel as if much of the backstory would have been far more interesting if we could have experienced it first-hand instead of after the fact. For example, Quinn's antagonistic in-laws, her work with the Pinkertons, and how she and Garnick became partners are events and relationships I wish could have been fleshed out in more detail. I would have loved to experience more of these, even if only in a few more flashbacks. I also felt the romantic relationship between Quinn and Garnick seemed unrealistic.
That being said, the setting was varied and vivid. And I especially enjoyed the very real danger our protagonist experienced. I felt the tension and suspense and I was anxious to see her safely solve the case.
I would certainly recommend this to fans of Historical mysteries, and look forward to seeing where the series will go from here.
My thanks to D.X. Varos, Ltd. and NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
Set in post-Civil War Chicago, it centers around widow Quinn Sinclair "Paschal" and her partner former Confederate soldier Garnick. The two have partnered in a detective agency and we are quickly immersed in two seemingly unrelated cases.
The setting and action is interesting and fast paced and I'm curious to see how the series progresses.
I did feel as if much of the backstory would have been far more interesting if we could have experienced it first-hand instead of after the fact. For example, Quinn's antagonistic in-laws, her work with the Pinkertons, and how she and Garnick became partners are events and relationships I wish could have been fleshed out in more detail. I would have loved to experience more of these, even if only in a few more flashbacks. I also felt the romantic relationship between Quinn and Garnick seemed unrealistic.
That being said, the setting was varied and vivid. And I especially enjoyed the very real danger our protagonist experienced. I felt the tension and suspense and I was anxious to see her safely solve the case.
I would certainly recommend this to fans of Historical mysteries, and look forward to seeing where the series will go from here.
My thanks to D.X. Varos, Ltd. and NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an unbiased review.
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