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Silver Rush #8
The Secret in the Wall
Sometimes the past just won't stay buried
San Francisco music store owner Inez Stannert agrees to provide financial assistance to boardinghouse proprietor Moira Krause. When the common wall of the abandoned house adjoining Moira's is breached to expand her business, the corpse of a murdered man tumbles out, along with a worn canvas bag holding a fortune in gold coins.
Then the locksmith who made the house's unbreakable locks is brutally slain, and the keys vanish. Inez and private detective Wolter Roeland de Bruijn set out to uncover the truth behind the killings..
San Francisco music store owner Inez Stannert agrees to provide financial assistance to boardinghouse proprietor Moira Krause. When the common wall of the abandoned house adjoining Moira's is breached to expand her business, the corpse of a murdered man tumbles out, along with a worn canvas bag holding a fortune in gold coins.
Then the locksmith who made the house's unbreakable locks is brutally slain, and the keys vanish. Inez and private detective Wolter Roeland de Bruijn set out to uncover the truth behind the killings..
400 pages, Hardcover
First published February 15, 2022
38 people are currently reading
5095 people want to read
About the author
Ann Parker
10 books225 followers Ann Parker earned degrees in Physics and English Literature at the University of California, Berkeley, before taking up a career as a science writer. These days, she slings science and technical verbiage for a living during the day and writes fiction at night.
Ann's ancestors include a great-grandfather who was a blacksmith in Leadville, a grandmother who worked at the bindery of Leadville's Herald Democrat newspaper, a grandfather who was a Colorado School of Mines professor, and another grandfather who worked as a gandy dancer on the Colorado railroads. She is a member of the National Association of Science Writers, the Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, Historical Novel Society, Women Writing the West, and Western Writers of America. Ann and her family reside in the San Francisco Bay Area, whence they have weathered numerous boom-and-bust cycles.
Her Silver Rush historical mystery series, published by Poisoned Pen Press, is set primarily in the silver boomtown of Leadville, Colorado, in the early 1880s. (The sixth in the series, A DYING NOTE, is set in San Francisco, 1881.) The series was picked as a "Booksellers Favorite" by the Mountains and Plains Independent Booksellers Association.
Ann's ancestors include a great-grandfather who was a blacksmith in Leadville, a grandmother who worked at the bindery of Leadville's Herald Democrat newspaper, a grandfather who was a Colorado School of Mines professor, and another grandfather who worked as a gandy dancer on the Colorado railroads. She is a member of the National Association of Science Writers, the Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, Historical Novel Society, Women Writing the West, and Western Writers of America. Ann and her family reside in the San Francisco Bay Area, whence they have weathered numerous boom-and-bust cycles.
Her Silver Rush historical mystery series, published by Poisoned Pen Press, is set primarily in the silver boomtown of Leadville, Colorado, in the early 1880s. (The sixth in the series, A DYING NOTE, is set in San Francisco, 1881.) The series was picked as a "Booksellers Favorite" by the Mountains and Plains Independent Booksellers Association.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
December 3, 2021
Inez Stannert, a strong woman in the late 1800's in San Francisco lends out money to women who want to start or develop their businesses. She is also the guardian of 12 year old Antonia, a feisty but terrible insubordinate young girl. During one of her ventures, a skeleton with a bag of gold is discovered in a hidden wall between two houses, and this is the beginning of a search for the identity of the walled man. Both Inez and Antonia will start their own investigation, unbeknownst to each other.
I did like the writing in the period style; a lot of words and expressions are related to French and that was very pleasantly surprising to read. The author clearly has made a lot of effort to get all the details like speech, clothing and culture just right and that elevated the book to a high standard.
However, in the second half, a lot of attention is given to the American Civil War, and maybe because I'm European and my knowledge about it is restricted to basically the first few sentences on Wiki (and guiltily admitting to having watched "North and South" as a teen), I lost interest in the mystery that had the war at its heart. Also, I really didn't like the characters of Antonia and Charlotte who were just selfish and pretty silly, no matter who often you read how clever Antonia is. To me, they were just little brats.
Good, but not exceptional.
A sincere thank you to NetGalley, Poisoned Pen Press and the author for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I did like the writing in the period style; a lot of words and expressions are related to French and that was very pleasantly surprising to read. The author clearly has made a lot of effort to get all the details like speech, clothing and culture just right and that elevated the book to a high standard.
However, in the second half, a lot of attention is given to the American Civil War, and maybe because I'm European and my knowledge about it is restricted to basically the first few sentences on Wiki (and guiltily admitting to having watched "North and South" as a teen), I lost interest in the mystery that had the war at its heart. Also, I really didn't like the characters of Antonia and Charlotte who were just selfish and pretty silly, no matter who often you read how clever Antonia is. To me, they were just little brats.
Good, but not exceptional.
A sincere thank you to NetGalley, Poisoned Pen Press and the author for an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2022
The Secret in the Wall is a book with lots of suspense and intrigue. The story takes place in San Francisco. The main character, Inez Stannert owns the D&S House of Music and Oriental Curiosities. She has bought a house as an investment with Moira Krause from Bertram Taylor who inherited the house from his father who is a sea captain.. It is a twin house which Mrs. Krause owns the other part that she runs as a boarding house.. The supporting characters all add to the story with secrets of their own. Upon breaking through the wall between the two houses they discover a body with a bag of coins. This is where the story goes on the adventure to find out who the man is. There is a mystery about this house which involves a hidden stairway and rooms. Antonia is Inez's 12 year old ward and Charlotte, Moira's daughter become friends and go on their own adventure discovering the hidden rooms and look for the treasure that is suppose to be in them. The story comes to an interesting finish with the discovery of the treasure and who the skeleton is and who murdered Mr. Harris a locksmith who has been caretaker for Mr. Taylor.
The book had interesting characters and kept the reader wanting to know about the rooms and treasure.
Thank you Net Galley and Poison Pen Press for this ARC,
The book had interesting characters and kept the reader wanting to know about the rooms and treasure.
Thank you Net Galley and Poison Pen Press for this ARC,
February 26, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Inez Stannert and her ward Antonia have moved from Colorado to San Francisco in this 8th book in the Silver Rush Mysteries. Inez owns D&S House of Music and Oriental Curiosities and she invests in businesses run by women like Moira Krause’s and her boardinghouse. They have purchased the joined home next to her existing property and Moira hopes to be able to double the number of tenants she can host. Moira insisted on a special ceremony to complete the sale and knock the wall that will connect the two properties but the event didn’t quite go as planned. When the sledgehammer broke through the wall a skeleton and a bag of gold coins cascaded out of the wall. When the authorities put all their attention on the coins Inez decides to investigate the body. Why would someone hide a body within the walls? What secret was that person hiding? Working with a PI from her past they try to get the answers before it is too late.
I first have to say this is the 8th book in the series and the first I have read but I escaped right into it very easily. The author gives enough backstory for new readers to understand the characters and their relationships without giving away too much that would deter those readers from going back and reading the previous books.
Inez Stannert is a unique individual, especially for a woman in the late 1800s. Savvy and street smart she makes herself at home with men and women alike. She is respected and driven to help others to succeed. She is also is doing her best to raise a strong-willed pre-teen ward who tests her a lot in this story. I really enjoyed the young amateur sleuths of Antonia and Moira’s daughter Charlotte and their scheming ways to spend time together to search the Treasure House. I really felt for Antonia when she made a horrific discovery and did her best to keep a stiff upper lip when you know a 12-year-old should never have to see such a thing even back in the 1800s. All of Ms. Parker’s characters are dynamically written with multiple layers some of which are kept well hidden or slowly revealed.
The mystery the author wrapped her characters in was so well-plotted laced with well-referenced historical facts of California’s part in the Civil War. It really brings an authentic feel to the book and the secrets many people were holding. Moira’s boardinghouse and the house next door were right in the middle of so much of that history. The discoveries made by Inez and the girls were so enveloping. Ms. Parker really brought the place to life with her descriptive style. I truly felt as if I was taking each step right along with the characters. I could also tell she weighed each word to make sure they presented each scene perfectly.
Ann Parker takes her readers on quite an adventure in The Secret in the Wall. If you like historical mysteries I think you would enjoy this story and encourage you to pick it up. I also think the author would have no trouble creating a young adult series featuring Antonia. She is a character that I would love to keep reading about. That girl could have a wild future.
Inez Stannert and her ward Antonia have moved from Colorado to San Francisco in this 8th book in the Silver Rush Mysteries. Inez owns D&S House of Music and Oriental Curiosities and she invests in businesses run by women like Moira Krause’s and her boardinghouse. They have purchased the joined home next to her existing property and Moira hopes to be able to double the number of tenants she can host. Moira insisted on a special ceremony to complete the sale and knock the wall that will connect the two properties but the event didn’t quite go as planned. When the sledgehammer broke through the wall a skeleton and a bag of gold coins cascaded out of the wall. When the authorities put all their attention on the coins Inez decides to investigate the body. Why would someone hide a body within the walls? What secret was that person hiding? Working with a PI from her past they try to get the answers before it is too late.
I first have to say this is the 8th book in the series and the first I have read but I escaped right into it very easily. The author gives enough backstory for new readers to understand the characters and their relationships without giving away too much that would deter those readers from going back and reading the previous books.
Inez Stannert is a unique individual, especially for a woman in the late 1800s. Savvy and street smart she makes herself at home with men and women alike. She is respected and driven to help others to succeed. She is also is doing her best to raise a strong-willed pre-teen ward who tests her a lot in this story. I really enjoyed the young amateur sleuths of Antonia and Moira’s daughter Charlotte and their scheming ways to spend time together to search the Treasure House. I really felt for Antonia when she made a horrific discovery and did her best to keep a stiff upper lip when you know a 12-year-old should never have to see such a thing even back in the 1800s. All of Ms. Parker’s characters are dynamically written with multiple layers some of which are kept well hidden or slowly revealed.
The mystery the author wrapped her characters in was so well-plotted laced with well-referenced historical facts of California’s part in the Civil War. It really brings an authentic feel to the book and the secrets many people were holding. Moira’s boardinghouse and the house next door were right in the middle of so much of that history. The discoveries made by Inez and the girls were so enveloping. Ms. Parker really brought the place to life with her descriptive style. I truly felt as if I was taking each step right along with the characters. I could also tell she weighed each word to make sure they presented each scene perfectly.
Ann Parker takes her readers on quite an adventure in The Secret in the Wall. If you like historical mysteries I think you would enjoy this story and encourage you to pick it up. I also think the author would have no trouble creating a young adult series featuring Antonia. She is a character that I would love to keep reading about. That girl could have a wild future.
February 23, 2022
This was really good. I had no idea this book was part of a series when I started reading, and once I finished, I was eager to get my hands on Inez Stannert’s other adventures.
Inez is a terrific protagonist: a successful businesswoman running a music school, and also lending money to other women to start their own businesses, and who has a history of investigating.
She is observant, curious (though not as observant as she needs to be with her young charge, Antonia in this book) comfortable with numerous types of people and situations, and not terribly conservative, unlike the woman, Moira, whom she goes into business with at the book’s outset. They’ve just gotten access to the other side of the house that Moira has bought with Inez’s loan, so Moira can expand her rooming house.
When breaking down a wall separating the two joined houses, they discover a dead man with a sack full of gold coins. The more Inez digs into the man’s potential identity and the origin of the coins, things get tenser between her and Moira, with Antonia and Moira’s daughter Charlotte getting into trouble together exploring the now accessible house in the hope of finding more what they think is pirate treasure. And stumbling upon a murder.
I liked the way the author’s prose flowed, as well as a picture she drew of San Francisco near the turn of the century. The mystery drew on the messy history of the Confederate war against the country, with family loyalties and relationships becoming stressed and torn, and how this affected people in San Francisco then, and for years after.
Parts of this mystery were pretty easy to figure out, and I had a good time guessing other parts. I hope there are more books coming in this series.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Inez is a terrific protagonist: a successful businesswoman running a music school, and also lending money to other women to start their own businesses, and who has a history of investigating.
She is observant, curious (though not as observant as she needs to be with her young charge, Antonia in this book) comfortable with numerous types of people and situations, and not terribly conservative, unlike the woman, Moira, whom she goes into business with at the book’s outset. They’ve just gotten access to the other side of the house that Moira has bought with Inez’s loan, so Moira can expand her rooming house.
When breaking down a wall separating the two joined houses, they discover a dead man with a sack full of gold coins. The more Inez digs into the man’s potential identity and the origin of the coins, things get tenser between her and Moira, with Antonia and Moira’s daughter Charlotte getting into trouble together exploring the now accessible house in the hope of finding more what they think is pirate treasure. And stumbling upon a murder.
I liked the way the author’s prose flowed, as well as a picture she drew of San Francisco near the turn of the century. The mystery drew on the messy history of the Confederate war against the country, with family loyalties and relationships becoming stressed and torn, and how this affected people in San Francisco then, and for years after.
Parts of this mystery were pretty easy to figure out, and I had a good time guessing other parts. I hope there are more books coming in this series.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
April 24, 2022
If you enjoy a solid mystery, this book is for you! I really enjoyed the characters, especially Inez and her ward, Antonia. The storyline is easy to follow and interesting. I appreciated the element of surprise throughout the story, the secret rooms and hidden hallways.
This book felt very much like reading Nancy Drew. There will definitely be some nastalgia for those who enjoyed her adventures.
The Secret In The Wall is part of an 8 book series - but don't let that deter you from picking up this book. It can 100% be read as a standalone. I actually didn't have a clue about this series until I stopped by to leave my review on Goodreads :)
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press for my gifted copy!
This book felt very much like reading Nancy Drew. There will definitely be some nastalgia for those who enjoyed her adventures.
The Secret In The Wall is part of an 8 book series - but don't let that deter you from picking up this book. It can 100% be read as a standalone. I actually didn't have a clue about this series until I stopped by to leave my review on Goodreads :)
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press for my gifted copy!
January 5, 2023
The author clearly has an impressive knowledge and understanding of San Francisco during the 1880s. I found the story to be fascinating and the writing to be immersive. This book stands on its own, without having read the previous books in the series. This is book 8. I am quite impressed with Inez, our female lead. The story leads us through lots of twists and a few edge of the seat moments especially involving Inez's ward Antonia and her friend Charlotte. This is a very good Historical Mystery that has been delivered with skill and style by the author. As a lover of historical fiction and mysteries, I will be starting at book one and enjoying the full experience of the series.
Thank you Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the Arc.
Thank you Netgalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the Arc.
March 21, 2022
This is my first book by Ann Parker and it's very special to me because it's signed by the author. Though this book is 8th in the Silver Rush series, I had no trouble following the storyline or characters. I really enjoyed how the chapters progressed, spotlighting the different characters activities at one point in time. I especially liked that the author included two young, curious female characters. Ann Parker had some fun adventures in store for these two future sleuths. I also relished in the S.F. Bay region history. The author did a fantastic job researching what it was like to be in the area at that time period, as well as before. I plan to read the 7th book in the series next!
January 10, 2022
Do you remember Nancy Drew? The Secret in the Wall, is a flashback to my childhood when I used to sit up under the covers late at night with a flash light.
Ann Parker, packed this book with twists and turns at every corner . I loved the little hidden hallways and secret rooms. The whole plot had such a spooky vibe and I was into it!
This was a great murder mystery that captivates your attention early on. To say I was impressed would be an understatement. I also think that this could be read by a wide age range of readers as it is not all too graphic or sexual.
I would recommend this novel to those who love a spooky murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end!
Ann Parker, packed this book with twists and turns at every corner . I loved the little hidden hallways and secret rooms. The whole plot had such a spooky vibe and I was into it!
This was a great murder mystery that captivates your attention early on. To say I was impressed would be an understatement. I also think that this could be read by a wide age range of readers as it is not all too graphic or sexual.
I would recommend this novel to those who love a spooky murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end!
December 19, 2021
A great vintage mystery to pass the time with, especially if you were a Nancy Drew fan, this is full of hidden rooms and secret hallways. A great read for historical mystery lovers.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for my ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for my ARC.
February 11, 2022
2/11/2022 3.5 stars. Full review tk at CriminalElement.com.
February 27, 2022
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
The Secret in the Wall is the 8th Silver Rush cozy mystery by Ann Parker. Released 15th Feb 2022 by Poisoned Pen Press, it's 400 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is a solidly plotted, character driven historical cozy set in San Francisco in the late 19th century. Main protagonist Inez Stannart is a financial partner in a boarding house venture when renovations on the house uncover a skeleton and a fortune in gold coins hidden in a wall. There are soon murders, mistaken identities, betrayals, theft, spies, and more skullduggery piling on top of the mysterious skeleton in the wall. The buildup and resolution/denouement were a bit more sombre than is usual for cozy mysteries, but still well done and satisfying.
There is no very explicit on page content. The language is slightly salty, especially for the time period and the fact that this is a historical cozy. One of the murders is quite gory, but the violence occurs off-page and is not written objectionably. Despite being the 8th book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone self-contained mystery. The author is adept at giving necessary back-story without info dumping or spoon feeding readers.
Four stars. Engaging and worth a look for fans of historical cozies.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Secret in the Wall is the 8th Silver Rush cozy mystery by Ann Parker. Released 15th Feb 2022 by Poisoned Pen Press, it's 400 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is a solidly plotted, character driven historical cozy set in San Francisco in the late 19th century. Main protagonist Inez Stannart is a financial partner in a boarding house venture when renovations on the house uncover a skeleton and a fortune in gold coins hidden in a wall. There are soon murders, mistaken identities, betrayals, theft, spies, and more skullduggery piling on top of the mysterious skeleton in the wall. The buildup and resolution/denouement were a bit more sombre than is usual for cozy mysteries, but still well done and satisfying.
There is no very explicit on page content. The language is slightly salty, especially for the time period and the fact that this is a historical cozy. One of the murders is quite gory, but the violence occurs off-page and is not written objectionably. Despite being the 8th book in the series, it works perfectly well as a standalone self-contained mystery. The author is adept at giving necessary back-story without info dumping or spoon feeding readers.
Four stars. Engaging and worth a look for fans of historical cozies.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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April 1, 2022review to come
July 30, 2025
Unfortunately I saw the ending coming from a mile away and I didn’t even read the ending beforehand as usually do. The writing was very cliche and the “romance” between Inez and Mr. de Bruijn was like a wet washcloth, boring and annoying.
February 17, 2022
The Secret in the Wall is a page-turning murder mystery that takes place in San Francisco during the 1880s. It opens with the introduction of a host of characters along with the discovery of a long-dead skeleton and a bag of gold coins hidden in the wall between two houses. Once the story starts, it's filled with hidden rooms, secret passageways, plot twists and turns and you just can't stop reading! It gave me all the Nancy Drew feels and I highly recommend it for historical fiction and mystery lovers!
Thank you to Poison Pen Press and NetgGalley for this eARC in exchange for my review
Thank you to Poison Pen Press and NetgGalley for this eARC in exchange for my review
March 14, 2022
This mystery was interesting because of the San Francisco setting, but it was lackluster in characters and plot.
February 12, 2022
I'm a lover of historical mysteries and this series of eight books is on my list. The earlier books took place in Colorado and now Inez Stannert lives in San Fransisco. It's 1882 and she and her friend, Moira Krause have bought the twin house that shares a wall with Moira's boarding house. The women intend to break through the wall of the pantry making it possible to enlarge the boardinghouse. Who would have imagined that all of 12 year old Antonia's talk about pirates and hidden treasure would become a real mystery dropped at their feet. Literally. That's just the first chapter and from then on to the last page I was hooked.
Inez is a woman who has a music store, D & S House of Music and Oriental Curiosities. She also lends money to women seeking to grown a business. Along the way she also solves mysteries. As she waits for the wall to be broken down she muses that she hopes there won't be any rats. "She shuddered and sincerely hoped not. Murderers, con men, lunatics, and thieves, she could and had faced many such without blinking. But sharp toothed rodents were a different matter." Now she faces a twenty year old skeleton with a glass eye and a bag of gold coins. Oh my!
The setting of San Fransisco is done in great detail and I was fascinated with the Civil War connection. It's one of the reasons I enjoy historical mysteries - I not only get a good puzzle to try and solve but I get a history lesson, as well. This entry to the series had it all. Inez is a very well drawn character and she speaks her mind and gets things done.
My thanks to the publisher Poisoned Pen Press and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review
Inez is a woman who has a music store, D & S House of Music and Oriental Curiosities. She also lends money to women seeking to grown a business. Along the way she also solves mysteries. As she waits for the wall to be broken down she muses that she hopes there won't be any rats. "She shuddered and sincerely hoped not. Murderers, con men, lunatics, and thieves, she could and had faced many such without blinking. But sharp toothed rodents were a different matter." Now she faces a twenty year old skeleton with a glass eye and a bag of gold coins. Oh my!
The setting of San Fransisco is done in great detail and I was fascinated with the Civil War connection. It's one of the reasons I enjoy historical mysteries - I not only get a good puzzle to try and solve but I get a history lesson, as well. This entry to the series had it all. Inez is a very well drawn character and she speaks her mind and gets things done.
My thanks to the publisher Poisoned Pen Press and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review
February 16, 2022
(2.75*)
The Secrets in the Wall by Ann Parker is a thrilling novel set in the 1800s. The main character of the story, Inez, moves to San Francisco from Colorado. While she is working at her self-owned music store, she acquires the property right next to hers in hopes of tearing the wall down and connecting the two places.
When Inez is breaking it down, there is a skeleton and some bags of gold coins that fall out from inside the wall. And everything starts to fall into place.
This book is full of secrets and hidden architecture, which is cool, but what I didn’t find interesting was the type of mystery this book follows.
I usually read into the description/synopsis of a book before requesting the title of course, and I am not sure if I just missed that on this book or what, because I typically would not read a historical type of mystery. It’s just not my thing.
The reason I can never get into them is for the simple fact that a lot of the time the book reads boring; too much detail on the timeline and not enough on the storyline. I did feel that way with this book too, it was just super slow and in my opinion, not as entertaining as a mystery or thriller that is written in a time period closer to present.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
The Secrets in the Wall by Ann Parker is a thrilling novel set in the 1800s. The main character of the story, Inez, moves to San Francisco from Colorado. While she is working at her self-owned music store, she acquires the property right next to hers in hopes of tearing the wall down and connecting the two places.
When Inez is breaking it down, there is a skeleton and some bags of gold coins that fall out from inside the wall. And everything starts to fall into place.
This book is full of secrets and hidden architecture, which is cool, but what I didn’t find interesting was the type of mystery this book follows.
I usually read into the description/synopsis of a book before requesting the title of course, and I am not sure if I just missed that on this book or what, because I typically would not read a historical type of mystery. It’s just not my thing.
The reason I can never get into them is for the simple fact that a lot of the time the book reads boring; too much detail on the timeline and not enough on the storyline. I did feel that way with this book too, it was just super slow and in my opinion, not as entertaining as a mystery or thriller that is written in a time period closer to present.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
November 9, 2021
This book is a fantastic story, full of adventure, secrets and murder. I love a good murder mystery, especially one steeped in history. I have always wanted a house with secret rooms and hidden passages. The author took care to really research the area and the time this is set in, drawing from true stories to create this one and its wonderful.
The story is set in the late 1800s. I love this time period. So much innovation and excitement happening after the Civil War. Inez Stannert is a single woman from Leadville, Colorado who now lives in San Francisco with her young ward, Antonia. Inez owns a successful music shop and a loan business to female entrepreneurs. Antonia is a strong willed, adventure seeking girl who loves pirate stories and spy mysteries, When Inez goes into a business venture with Moira Krause to buy the adjacent property to hers things go awry. They decide to bust open the wall between the properties where the pantries are to connect them. As they do a skeleton and a bag of gold tumbles out. Everyone is taken aback by the discovery and Inez and Moira set out to discover just who this man was.
The house is locked tight and the body removed. Harris and son, the local locksmith, having the only keys. One night The older Harris is murdered and the keys stolen. Inez cannot figure out why this would happen unless someone knew more about the supposed treasure that was found there. Inez hires a lawyer, and enlists the help of a private detective to help find out the identity of the skeleton. I love the descriptions of the setting as well. You can really tell how much research the author did on the time period. Including the Palace Hotel, Alcatraz, and the SF Mint.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and if you enjoy fictional historical mysteries, I suggest you check this one out. It is a page turner that will not disappoint. Inez is apparently a character from another series called The Silver Rush Mysteries and now I must read those as well. I very much look forward to more from this author. I received this book free from NetGalley for an honest review.
The story is set in the late 1800s. I love this time period. So much innovation and excitement happening after the Civil War. Inez Stannert is a single woman from Leadville, Colorado who now lives in San Francisco with her young ward, Antonia. Inez owns a successful music shop and a loan business to female entrepreneurs. Antonia is a strong willed, adventure seeking girl who loves pirate stories and spy mysteries, When Inez goes into a business venture with Moira Krause to buy the adjacent property to hers things go awry. They decide to bust open the wall between the properties where the pantries are to connect them. As they do a skeleton and a bag of gold tumbles out. Everyone is taken aback by the discovery and Inez and Moira set out to discover just who this man was.
The house is locked tight and the body removed. Harris and son, the local locksmith, having the only keys. One night The older Harris is murdered and the keys stolen. Inez cannot figure out why this would happen unless someone knew more about the supposed treasure that was found there. Inez hires a lawyer, and enlists the help of a private detective to help find out the identity of the skeleton. I love the descriptions of the setting as well. You can really tell how much research the author did on the time period. Including the Palace Hotel, Alcatraz, and the SF Mint.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and if you enjoy fictional historical mysteries, I suggest you check this one out. It is a page turner that will not disappoint. Inez is apparently a character from another series called The Silver Rush Mysteries and now I must read those as well. I very much look forward to more from this author. I received this book free from NetGalley for an honest review.
November 3, 2021
I am so impressed by the amount and depth of research the author has done to make her Silver Rush Mysteries, authentic, as well as exciting.
Early books in the 8-book series were set in the silver boomtown of Leadville, Colorado, where protagonist Inez Stannert was co-owner of a saloon. A few books back, she and her 12-year-old ward, Antonia, daughter of a deceased fortune teller, moved to San Francisco, where she now owns a music shop, makes loans to deserving female entrepreneurs, and enjoys a bit of backroom poker.
Antonia has proven to be a challenge to raise, engaging her younger friend in adventures that imagine pirates and coded messages. At the same time, Inez has joined with the owner of a boarding house to buy the adjacent property, and they are shocked to find a skeleton and a bag of gold coins--not to mention a glass eye--when breaking through the wall.
Street-smart, self-sufficient Inez is a wonderful character who refuses to take no for an answer and doesn't fear to tread where women rarely dared to go in the late 1880s. Antonia is also a revelation--bright and headstrong, needing a firm hand when it comes to following her passions, especially when they lead to trouble. Secondary characters include locksmiths, veterans of the Civil War (both sides), detectives, lawyers, would-be suitors, and more. The local color adds to the thrill--including the SF Mint, the luxurious Palace Hotel, and Alcatraz prison, where a crafty criminal who demands chocolate may be able to provide some valuable information in the investigation.
If you like your historical mysteries tightly plotted and well researched, with a thrilling ending, this book is for you.
My review is based on a complimentary, pre-release copy of the book.
Early books in the 8-book series were set in the silver boomtown of Leadville, Colorado, where protagonist Inez Stannert was co-owner of a saloon. A few books back, she and her 12-year-old ward, Antonia, daughter of a deceased fortune teller, moved to San Francisco, where she now owns a music shop, makes loans to deserving female entrepreneurs, and enjoys a bit of backroom poker.
Antonia has proven to be a challenge to raise, engaging her younger friend in adventures that imagine pirates and coded messages. At the same time, Inez has joined with the owner of a boarding house to buy the adjacent property, and they are shocked to find a skeleton and a bag of gold coins--not to mention a glass eye--when breaking through the wall.
Street-smart, self-sufficient Inez is a wonderful character who refuses to take no for an answer and doesn't fear to tread where women rarely dared to go in the late 1880s. Antonia is also a revelation--bright and headstrong, needing a firm hand when it comes to following her passions, especially when they lead to trouble. Secondary characters include locksmiths, veterans of the Civil War (both sides), detectives, lawyers, would-be suitors, and more. The local color adds to the thrill--including the SF Mint, the luxurious Palace Hotel, and Alcatraz prison, where a crafty criminal who demands chocolate may be able to provide some valuable information in the investigation.
If you like your historical mysteries tightly plotted and well researched, with a thrilling ending, this book is for you.
My review is based on a complimentary, pre-release copy of the book.
September 12, 2021
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Many of us grew up on a strict diet of Nancy Drew. For nostalgia in the same vein but grittier, try 12-year-old sleuth Antonia Grizzi, who’s been raised on Gilded Age San Francisco’s streets, and it shows. She’s now the “ward” of Inez Stannart, a single woman who wants to remain so. The two are perfectly matched as companions, but Antonia can’t bring herself to trust Inez, or anyone, completely. When demolition in a building Inez has bought reveals a dead man and a cache of gold coins, she and Antonia each determine to solve the mystery of who he is and what happened—solo. By playing in the house, the little girl gets deep into its secrets, while her guardian looks further afield, including in the investigation a handsome local who just might make her abandon the going-it-alone plan. Exciting switches in perspective quickly advance the plot while accessible but atmospheric dialog and cultural touchpoints impart a vivid sense of the time. Readers will want more from Parker; also try Erin Lindsey’s Rose Gallagher Mystery series.—Henrietta Verma
Many of us grew up on a strict diet of Nancy Drew. For nostalgia in the same vein but grittier, try 12-year-old sleuth Antonia Grizzi, who’s been raised on Gilded Age San Francisco’s streets, and it shows. She’s now the “ward” of Inez Stannart, a single woman who wants to remain so. The two are perfectly matched as companions, but Antonia can’t bring herself to trust Inez, or anyone, completely. When demolition in a building Inez has bought reveals a dead man and a cache of gold coins, she and Antonia each determine to solve the mystery of who he is and what happened—solo. By playing in the house, the little girl gets deep into its secrets, while her guardian looks further afield, including in the investigation a handsome local who just might make her abandon the going-it-alone plan. Exciting switches in perspective quickly advance the plot while accessible but atmospheric dialog and cultural touchpoints impart a vivid sense of the time. Readers will want more from Parker; also try Erin Lindsey’s Rose Gallagher Mystery series.—Henrietta Verma
January 26, 2022
This book drew me in with its title, reminiscent of a vintage Nancy Drew adventure. The narrative and plotline, however, did not deliver enough to sustain my interest. It wasn't clear from the outset that this book was part of a series and, while it can serve as a stand-alone story, the thin character development underscores the importance of having more to draw from to feel invested in Inez and her sleuthing sidekicks. Parker relies heavily on telling vs. showing, and her wordy descriptions often meander astray from their point or furthering the story. The sense of place here is sound, from a geographic and historical accuracy standpoint, but again, the writing lacks the magic to immerse the reader in the setting. The mystery itself wasn't particularly compelling or cleverly layered - and the tone was neither charming enough to fit the cozy genre nor hardboiled enough for a western. I love it when I pick up a series book and immediately want to read more installments, and unfortunately this book did not pique my interest in exploring further.
I received a digital pre-publication copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a digital pre-publication copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2021
The Secret in the Walls took a while to get off the ground. By the time the mystery really kicked off, it had been a bit of a blunder to get through.
The characters are interesting, but the story should have stayed with Inez instead of occasionally shifting to Antonia. However, the budding romance between Inez and investigator Walter de Brujin is deftly handled for the period.
Unfortunately, the mystery just wasn't prominent enough to keep me invested, nor the characters. Since this is the eighth in a series, it seems that having read previous installments would have allowed me to ascertain knowledge on the characters and setting that I didn't get in the one. Not to say this can't be read as a standalone, but it might not pack the oomph if you'd read the whole series.
The characters are interesting, but the story should have stayed with Inez instead of occasionally shifting to Antonia. However, the budding romance between Inez and investigator Walter de Brujin is deftly handled for the period.
Unfortunately, the mystery just wasn't prominent enough to keep me invested, nor the characters. Since this is the eighth in a series, it seems that having read previous installments would have allowed me to ascertain knowledge on the characters and setting that I didn't get in the one. Not to say this can't be read as a standalone, but it might not pack the oomph if you'd read the whole series.
January 24, 2022
With a slow, steady build, the reader is treated to a story that encompasses life in San Francisco in the early 1800’s, a brief foray onto Alcatraz, and a decades old murder that is uncovered when a wall is torn down, revealing a skeleton and a bag of gold coins. In The Secret in the Wall, Ann Parker has created a story that from the adult point of view is one of murder, treason, and stolen money. This same story, as seen through the eyes of two impressionable young girls, becomes one of pirates, hidden treasure, and a house full of secret passages and hidden rooms.
In this, the eighth book in the Silver Rush Mysteries series, Parker has done extensive research into the San Francisco Mint, the use of Alcatraz as a prison for Confederate sympathizers, and the efforts women have to exert in order to succeed in the world as independent individuals. In addition to that story which is on an adult level, there are two young girls who uncover some of the clues and spin a story of pirates, treasure, and adventure to be had all in a building next door to the one in which one of them lives.
While the book is definitely one for adults, with some minor tweaking the story of the two girls, Antonia and Charlotte could become a YA novel full of adventure and youthful exploration. The two parts mesh well into one story, with each “investigation” yielding information that would be helpful to the other if they were ever to realize they were involved in the same investigation. That adds a bit of tension throughout the book as Parker moves from one investigation to the other.
This is the eighth in the series, and, while enjoyable, the reader would definitely benefit from reading at least some of the previous books in the series in order to get a better understanding of the character’s back stories both personally and between each other. The mystery itself stands alone, but Parker alludes to prior activities between some of the characters which leave the reader with some questions as to the extent of their relationships.
The characters are well developed and interesting, although some of that development has occurred in earlier books in the series which leaves a first-time reader to the series feeling a little as if they are playing catch-up. If this is a historical period that appeals to you, you may fully expect to go back to books earlier in the series and read them after finishing this one.
I appreciate the advanced read book I received from Poisoned Pen Press which enabled me to provide an unbiased review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
In this, the eighth book in the Silver Rush Mysteries series, Parker has done extensive research into the San Francisco Mint, the use of Alcatraz as a prison for Confederate sympathizers, and the efforts women have to exert in order to succeed in the world as independent individuals. In addition to that story which is on an adult level, there are two young girls who uncover some of the clues and spin a story of pirates, treasure, and adventure to be had all in a building next door to the one in which one of them lives.
While the book is definitely one for adults, with some minor tweaking the story of the two girls, Antonia and Charlotte could become a YA novel full of adventure and youthful exploration. The two parts mesh well into one story, with each “investigation” yielding information that would be helpful to the other if they were ever to realize they were involved in the same investigation. That adds a bit of tension throughout the book as Parker moves from one investigation to the other.
This is the eighth in the series, and, while enjoyable, the reader would definitely benefit from reading at least some of the previous books in the series in order to get a better understanding of the character’s back stories both personally and between each other. The mystery itself stands alone, but Parker alludes to prior activities between some of the characters which leave the reader with some questions as to the extent of their relationships.
The characters are well developed and interesting, although some of that development has occurred in earlier books in the series which leaves a first-time reader to the series feeling a little as if they are playing catch-up. If this is a historical period that appeals to you, you may fully expect to go back to books earlier in the series and read them after finishing this one.
I appreciate the advanced read book I received from Poisoned Pen Press which enabled me to provide an unbiased review. The opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
March 9, 2022
As if late nineteenth century San Francisco isn't exciting enough, let's see how we can spice things up a bit. Inez sometimes helps women business owners out with a loan as a side business to managing the music store that also sells Chinese art pieces. She becomes partners with Moira Krause buy loaning the money to purchase the house next door to the boarding house Moira owns. The houses share a common wall which makes a perfect way for Moira to expand her business. When they finish the signing over ownership of f the newly purchased home and start the process of knocking down the common wall, a skeleton falls out of the wall along with a bag of gold and the scene is completed by the glass eye that is dislodged from the remains and rolls across the floor. This begins the mystery of The Secret in the Wall.
There is more secrets to be discovered about this house, the family who owned it and as each little bit is uncovered there is more mystery revealed. Inez's ward, Antonia is mesmerized with the notion of pirates and buried treasure thanks to the book Treasure Island.and her obsession with it. Fueling her obsession is the appearance of this glass eye bearing skeleton complete with a treasure of gold coins. It starts out as a tale of the journey to identify this man and the rightful owner of the large amount of money and turns into a tale full of murder, embezzlement, and treason spanning several decades.
The attention to detail of the time period is to be commended. Ann Parker has done her homework and then some. She paints a picture so clearly that you can see it in your mind the same as if you were looking at it with your eyes. I found myself reading past lunchtime. Just one more chapter turned into two. I would realize at times I was holding my breath right alongside the very characters I couldn't stop reading about. The book is compelling and and a literary treat. I was completely enthralled from start to finish and I highly recommend it to any mystery lover.
There is more secrets to be discovered about this house, the family who owned it and as each little bit is uncovered there is more mystery revealed. Inez's ward, Antonia is mesmerized with the notion of pirates and buried treasure thanks to the book Treasure Island.and her obsession with it. Fueling her obsession is the appearance of this glass eye bearing skeleton complete with a treasure of gold coins. It starts out as a tale of the journey to identify this man and the rightful owner of the large amount of money and turns into a tale full of murder, embezzlement, and treason spanning several decades.
The attention to detail of the time period is to be commended. Ann Parker has done her homework and then some. She paints a picture so clearly that you can see it in your mind the same as if you were looking at it with your eyes. I found myself reading past lunchtime. Just one more chapter turned into two. I would realize at times I was holding my breath right alongside the very characters I couldn't stop reading about. The book is compelling and and a literary treat. I was completely enthralled from start to finish and I highly recommend it to any mystery lover.
February 8, 2022
Great Surprise Twist on Mystery Motive! What a surprise for two new building owners when they begin renovations and a long-dead body and a bag of gold fall from a torn-down wall.
Thus begins the mysterious shenanigans and perilous pursuits in Ann Parker’s 8th installment of her Silver Rush Series, “The Secret in the Wall.”
For the grownup Nancy Drews and Hardy Boys in all of us that enjoy laugh-out-loud cozy mysteries that are fun, yet with adult aspects as well, “The Secret in the Wall” is a terrific read.
From ghostly nocturnal noises that go bump in the night; to two mischievous little girls with a nose for sleuthing; hundreds of US gold Eagle coins yet to be claimed; and mysterious break-ins— all in 1880s San Francisco—"The Secret in The Wall” has more interesting secrets than those in the wall.
Without giving away the unexpected conclusion, Author Ann Parker does a terrific job in building this intriguing story with facts that are totally unexpected in this fascinating mystery.
I was completely intrigued by the ending that has links to the War Between the States—that is indeed unexpected since the story is set in California—not a state one typically associates with that particular event.
For a page-turning cozy mystery that has a unique plot twist, “The Secret in Wall” is a fun choice.
=====================///=======================
The Book Maven’s Journal—Reviews for Word Connoisseurs
REVIEWER: J.Hunt
STAR RATING ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The Secret in the Wall” (Silver Rush Series #8)
Author: Ann Parker
Genre: | Mysteries & Thrillers | Historical Fiction
Publication Date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: Poison Pen Press
With Sincerest Appreciation to NetGalley, Author Ann Parker, and Publisher Poison Pen Press for Providing this Advance Reader’s Copy for Review.
Thus begins the mysterious shenanigans and perilous pursuits in Ann Parker’s 8th installment of her Silver Rush Series, “The Secret in the Wall.”
For the grownup Nancy Drews and Hardy Boys in all of us that enjoy laugh-out-loud cozy mysteries that are fun, yet with adult aspects as well, “The Secret in the Wall” is a terrific read.
From ghostly nocturnal noises that go bump in the night; to two mischievous little girls with a nose for sleuthing; hundreds of US gold Eagle coins yet to be claimed; and mysterious break-ins— all in 1880s San Francisco—"The Secret in The Wall” has more interesting secrets than those in the wall.
Without giving away the unexpected conclusion, Author Ann Parker does a terrific job in building this intriguing story with facts that are totally unexpected in this fascinating mystery.
I was completely intrigued by the ending that has links to the War Between the States—that is indeed unexpected since the story is set in California—not a state one typically associates with that particular event.
For a page-turning cozy mystery that has a unique plot twist, “The Secret in Wall” is a fun choice.
=====================///=======================
The Book Maven’s Journal—Reviews for Word Connoisseurs
REVIEWER: J.Hunt
STAR RATING ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The Secret in the Wall” (Silver Rush Series #8)
Author: Ann Parker
Genre: | Mysteries & Thrillers | Historical Fiction
Publication Date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: Poison Pen Press
With Sincerest Appreciation to NetGalley, Author Ann Parker, and Publisher Poison Pen Press for Providing this Advance Reader’s Copy for Review.
November 17, 2021
The Secret in the Wall is a thrilling, adventurous story of secrets and murder. I have been a fan of mysteries ever since my mom read me stories of Nancy Drew as I was growing up and have always dreamed of having a house with secret rooms and hidden hallways. I was able to experience that dream through reading this book!
The story is set in the 1800s. Our main character, Inez, is a single woman originally from Colorado who moved to San Francisco and lives with Antonia. Inez owns a music store and gives loans to women who also want to start their own businesses. Antonia is a young girl who loves pirates and mysteries. When Inez buys the property next to hers they decide to tear down the wall between the buildings (where they are connected by a pantry). That’s when a skeleton and a bag of gold falls out of the wall and the adventure to solve the mystery begins!
The first few chapters were a bit slow for me and I had a hard time getting lost in the story at first. It did get better as the book went on, though. If you enjoy historical novels or pretty much any type of mystery, this is a book for you! As I researched this book, I discovered Inez is a character from another series called The Silver Rush Mysteries. However, you do not need to have read the other books to understand what is taking place in this one.
The Secret in the Wall will be published on February 15, 2022, by Poisoned Pen Press.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The story is set in the 1800s. Our main character, Inez, is a single woman originally from Colorado who moved to San Francisco and lives with Antonia. Inez owns a music store and gives loans to women who also want to start their own businesses. Antonia is a young girl who loves pirates and mysteries. When Inez buys the property next to hers they decide to tear down the wall between the buildings (where they are connected by a pantry). That’s when a skeleton and a bag of gold falls out of the wall and the adventure to solve the mystery begins!
The first few chapters were a bit slow for me and I had a hard time getting lost in the story at first. It did get better as the book went on, though. If you enjoy historical novels or pretty much any type of mystery, this is a book for you! As I researched this book, I discovered Inez is a character from another series called The Silver Rush Mysteries. However, you do not need to have read the other books to understand what is taking place in this one.
The Secret in the Wall will be published on February 15, 2022, by Poisoned Pen Press.
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 10, 2022
I've followed Inez Stannert's path from the very first Silver Rush book, Silver Lies. It's a life that has been anything but ordinary and has had more than its share of surprises along the way. It's always a pleasure to see a favored series get stronger with each book, and I'm happy to say that The Secret in the Wall is the best Silver Rush mystery yet. I mean, who doesn't like a mystery that has a skeleton behind the wall, a bag of gold coins, secret passages, secret staircases, and secret rooms? And I haven't even mentioned Alcatraz yet!
Parker always does an excellent job of weaving historical facts into her mysteries, and this time she has the American Civil War and California's part in it to work with. It may be the 1880s, but The Secret in the Wall proves that the Civil War and all its conflict is bubbling away, barely beneath the surface.
What put the smile on my face and raised the enjoyment factor of reading this book tenfold was Inez's ward, teenage Antonia. The daughter of a murdered prostitute, Antonia was left to her own devices until taken in by Inez. Antonia chafes under any sort of authority, and the only reason why she puts up supervision from Inez is that she does respect the older woman. Inez is finding it difficult to keep Antonia on a solid path because she doesn't want to break the girl's amazing spirit. Inez had enough of that herself growing up in a wealthy family on the East Coast. Antonia seems to go out of her way to do the opposite of what she's told, and this only proves that Inez is trying to raise a fiercely independent younger copy of herself.
In The Secret in the Wall, Antonia makes a new friend, and since the new friend lives right next door to where the body in the wall was found, Antonia wants to have a lot of sleepovers at her new friend's house so they can sneak over to explore next-door's secret rooms and passageways. The young girls' investigations mirror Inez's with possibly grave consequences. It's amazing to me how Parker has created a character who exasperates me to no end yet still makes me laugh. Suffice it to say, when Antonia wasn't making me mentally rip my hair out, I was having the time of my life creeping around a derelict house with her in the wee hours of the morning.
And if you're in the mood for some fun in 1880s San Francisco, I strongly recommend joining Inez and Antonia in The Secret in the Wall.
(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)
Parker always does an excellent job of weaving historical facts into her mysteries, and this time she has the American Civil War and California's part in it to work with. It may be the 1880s, but The Secret in the Wall proves that the Civil War and all its conflict is bubbling away, barely beneath the surface.
What put the smile on my face and raised the enjoyment factor of reading this book tenfold was Inez's ward, teenage Antonia. The daughter of a murdered prostitute, Antonia was left to her own devices until taken in by Inez. Antonia chafes under any sort of authority, and the only reason why she puts up supervision from Inez is that she does respect the older woman. Inez is finding it difficult to keep Antonia on a solid path because she doesn't want to break the girl's amazing spirit. Inez had enough of that herself growing up in a wealthy family on the East Coast. Antonia seems to go out of her way to do the opposite of what she's told, and this only proves that Inez is trying to raise a fiercely independent younger copy of herself.
In The Secret in the Wall, Antonia makes a new friend, and since the new friend lives right next door to where the body in the wall was found, Antonia wants to have a lot of sleepovers at her new friend's house so they can sneak over to explore next-door's secret rooms and passageways. The young girls' investigations mirror Inez's with possibly grave consequences. It's amazing to me how Parker has created a character who exasperates me to no end yet still makes me laugh. Suffice it to say, when Antonia wasn't making me mentally rip my hair out, I was having the time of my life creeping around a derelict house with her in the wee hours of the morning.
And if you're in the mood for some fun in 1880s San Francisco, I strongly recommend joining Inez and Antonia in The Secret in the Wall.
(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)
November 20, 2021
The Secret in the Wall (Silver Rush #8) by Ann Parker
Expected publication: February 15th 2022 by Poisoned Pen Press
Inez Stannert, owner of the D&S House of Music and Oriental Curiosities, agrees to finance Moira Krause’s expansion of her boarding house into the adjoining home. As a group gathers to watch the symbolic opening of the common wall, a skeleton and a sack of gold coins falls from the opening. The quest is on to determine who the corpse is, where the money came from, and who placed the corpse in the wall.
Parker has written a delightful historical fiction/murder mystery. Set in 1882 in San Francisco, the landscape comes alive as Parker weaves pirates and the Civil War into the story. Two young girls, Charlotte and Antonia, are the explorers of the mystery, going places they shouldn’t and uncovering clues but unable to share them because they are misbehaving. It’s a nice balance between the adults’ search for meaning and the children’s fantasies about pirates and pirates’ booty.
I enjoyed the character of Inez most. She is a complicated character who lends money only to women who want to start businesses. Her sordid past is hinted at, but never truly revealed. The Secret in the Wall is a fun, easy read. I recommend the book and give it 4 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ann Parker, and Poisoned Pen Press for the arc widget. I have provided my honest review in return.
Expected publication: February 15th 2022 by Poisoned Pen Press
Inez Stannert, owner of the D&S House of Music and Oriental Curiosities, agrees to finance Moira Krause’s expansion of her boarding house into the adjoining home. As a group gathers to watch the symbolic opening of the common wall, a skeleton and a sack of gold coins falls from the opening. The quest is on to determine who the corpse is, where the money came from, and who placed the corpse in the wall.
Parker has written a delightful historical fiction/murder mystery. Set in 1882 in San Francisco, the landscape comes alive as Parker weaves pirates and the Civil War into the story. Two young girls, Charlotte and Antonia, are the explorers of the mystery, going places they shouldn’t and uncovering clues but unable to share them because they are misbehaving. It’s a nice balance between the adults’ search for meaning and the children’s fantasies about pirates and pirates’ booty.
I enjoyed the character of Inez most. She is a complicated character who lends money only to women who want to start businesses. Her sordid past is hinted at, but never truly revealed. The Secret in the Wall is a fun, easy read. I recommend the book and give it 4 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Ann Parker, and Poisoned Pen Press for the arc widget. I have provided my honest review in return.
February 14, 2022
When Inez Stannert agreed to help Moria Krause purchased the house next door to her boarding house, she had no idea that the house came with a skeleton hidden in the walls and a hidden room full of secrets that date back to the Civil War. Not long after the skeleton is discovered, the locksmith who was tasked with the upkeep by the home's original owner is found murdered on the back porch. Inez woks with private detective Wolter Roeland de Bruijn to identify the skeleton and trace the bag of gold coins found alongside him. Meanwhile, Inez's ward, Antonia, teams up with Moria Krause's daughter to do some nocturnal investigating of the mysterious house.
I have been a fan of the Silver Rush series since the beginning, but I just haven't warmed up to the last few books as much as the earlier ones. I feel like something was lost when Inez gave up her saloon in Leadville, Colorado, and moved to San Francisco. The music store is much more genteel and San Francisco, while still rough and tumble, lacks the grittiness of the mining town. Inez also lost part of her personality along the way, and I just don't care for her as much as I used to. That being said, THE SECRET IN THE WALL is an enjoyable read. Despite a slow start, there were numerous twists and turns that kept me turning the page. The dual investigations conducted Inez and Antonia allow them discover different facts. My only issue with the novel was Charlotte Krause. She was unbearable.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I have been a fan of the Silver Rush series since the beginning, but I just haven't warmed up to the last few books as much as the earlier ones. I feel like something was lost when Inez gave up her saloon in Leadville, Colorado, and moved to San Francisco. The music store is much more genteel and San Francisco, while still rough and tumble, lacks the grittiness of the mining town. Inez also lost part of her personality along the way, and I just don't care for her as much as I used to. That being said, THE SECRET IN THE WALL is an enjoyable read. Despite a slow start, there were numerous twists and turns that kept me turning the page. The dual investigations conducted Inez and Antonia allow them discover different facts. My only issue with the novel was Charlotte Krause. She was unbearable.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
August 7, 2022
The Secret in the Wall by Ann Parker is the 8th book of the Silver Rush mystery series, set in 1888 San Francisco. Inez Stannert owns the now-profitable D&S Music and Curiosities shop at Pine and Kearny. Her philanthropic goals include supporting local businesses run by women. She partners with Moira Krause to purchase the adjoining brownstone to Moira's boardinghouse. The plan is to knock out the separating wall to expand the boardinghouse. At their housewarming and wall-knockdown celebration, they discover an unexpected surprise: partly unwelcome (a skeleton), partly very welcome (a treasure).
Inez teams up with de Bruijn (as in Mortal Music) to solve crimes: murder, possibly treason, possibly stolen treasure. A burning question in the minds of all: who is now the rightful owner of the gold?
Meanwhile...Inez's ward Antonia and Moira's daughter Charlotte make an amazing discovery. It fits right in with Antonia's latest fascination: pirates. As often as they can finagle a sleepover, they explore in secret, where they know they are not allowed.
The clandestine investigation of 'pirates' by the girls, in parallel to Inez and de Bruijn investigating crimes, adds suspense and interest to the plot. Many true historical references are fascinating: Alcatraz, a Confederate privateer plot, embezzling from the Mint. Be sure to read the Author's Note, which discusses how the story fits into the historical background.
Inez teams up with de Bruijn (as in Mortal Music) to solve crimes: murder, possibly treason, possibly stolen treasure. A burning question in the minds of all: who is now the rightful owner of the gold?
Meanwhile...Inez's ward Antonia and Moira's daughter Charlotte make an amazing discovery. It fits right in with Antonia's latest fascination: pirates. As often as they can finagle a sleepover, they explore in secret, where they know they are not allowed.
The clandestine investigation of 'pirates' by the girls, in parallel to Inez and de Bruijn investigating crimes, adds suspense and interest to the plot. Many true historical references are fascinating: Alcatraz, a Confederate privateer plot, embezzling from the Mint. Be sure to read the Author's Note, which discusses how the story fits into the historical background.
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