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Gaslight Mystery #24
Murder on Wall Street
Midwife Sarah Brandt Malloy and her detective husband, Frank, must discover who killed a prominent—but despised—society banker before an innocent family is destroyed in Murder on Wall Street, an all-new Gaslight Mystery in the USA Today bestselling series.
Reformed gangster Jack Robinson is working hard to bolster his image in Gilded Age New York City society as he prepares to become a new father. But when Hayden Norcross, the man who nearly ruined his wife, is shot in cold blood, Jack knows the police will soon come knocking on his door. Frank Malloy has to agree—things don’t look good for Jack. But surely a man as unlikeable as Hayden had more than a few enemies. And it’s soon clear that plenty of the upper echelon as well as the denizens of the most squalid areas of the city seem to have hated him.
Sarah and Frank have their work cut out for them. As the daughter of the elite Decker family, Sarah has access to the social circles Hayden frequented, and the more she learns about his horrific treatment of women, the more disturbed she becomes. And as Frank investigates, he finds that Hayden had a host of unsavory habits that may have hastened his demise. But who finally killed him? Sarah and Frank must put the pieces together quickly before time runs out and Jack’s hard-won new life and family are ripped apart.
Reformed gangster Jack Robinson is working hard to bolster his image in Gilded Age New York City society as he prepares to become a new father. But when Hayden Norcross, the man who nearly ruined his wife, is shot in cold blood, Jack knows the police will soon come knocking on his door. Frank Malloy has to agree—things don’t look good for Jack. But surely a man as unlikeable as Hayden had more than a few enemies. And it’s soon clear that plenty of the upper echelon as well as the denizens of the most squalid areas of the city seem to have hated him.
Sarah and Frank have their work cut out for them. As the daughter of the elite Decker family, Sarah has access to the social circles Hayden frequented, and the more she learns about his horrific treatment of women, the more disturbed she becomes. And as Frank investigates, he finds that Hayden had a host of unsavory habits that may have hastened his demise. But who finally killed him? Sarah and Frank must put the pieces together quickly before time runs out and Jack’s hard-won new life and family are ripped apart.
305 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 27, 2021
163 people are currently reading
3529 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Thompson
83 books2,446 followersVictoria Thompson was a beloved authoress of 'standard mystery' novels.
This middle of the road tone is not violent like a 'thriller' but unsanitized (NOT light like a 'cozy mystery'), is unflinchingly adult, serious, and dark.
Humour, romance, family, and compassion balance out the crime part of dear Victoria's unforgettable mysteries.
This middle of the road tone is not violent like a 'thriller' but unsanitized (NOT light like a 'cozy mystery'), is unflinchingly adult, serious, and dark.
Humour, romance, family, and compassion balance out the crime part of dear Victoria's unforgettable mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 291 reviews
September 29, 2021
Murder on Wall Street by Victoria Thompson is a 2021 Berkley publication.
The former gangster, Jack Robinson, makes an encore appearance in this 24th installment in the Gaslight Mystery series. After marrying Jocelyn, a woman who became pregnant after a sexual assault, Jack discovers that not only will he benefit from her social connections, but he might also really love her.
But, when Jocelyn’s attacker- Hayden Norcross- is murdered- Jack is worried that he could be a suspect, which prompts him to hire Frank to find the real killer….
A terrific installment in this long-running series!!
I was thrilled to see Jack and Jocelyn again and thought the plot highlighted the limited choices of women in this era, as well as delving into the underworld of opium dens and investment banking.
The mystery is solid and kept me guessing until I was deep into the book. I did have some suspicions but was still surprised by the way things turned out.
Naturally, I’ve become attached to the recurring characters and am always happy to touch base with them. The more time I spend with Gino and Maeve, the more I like them- especially Maeve. She’s a real hoot.
The historical elements are, as always, very interesting and well- researched. This book, with a little help from the author’s note, has prompted me to do some further research and reading about investment banking.
Overall, this was a strong addition to the series! I just wish the wait time between installments wasn’t so long! 😁
The former gangster, Jack Robinson, makes an encore appearance in this 24th installment in the Gaslight Mystery series. After marrying Jocelyn, a woman who became pregnant after a sexual assault, Jack discovers that not only will he benefit from her social connections, but he might also really love her.
But, when Jocelyn’s attacker- Hayden Norcross- is murdered- Jack is worried that he could be a suspect, which prompts him to hire Frank to find the real killer….
A terrific installment in this long-running series!!
I was thrilled to see Jack and Jocelyn again and thought the plot highlighted the limited choices of women in this era, as well as delving into the underworld of opium dens and investment banking.
The mystery is solid and kept me guessing until I was deep into the book. I did have some suspicions but was still surprised by the way things turned out.
Naturally, I’ve become attached to the recurring characters and am always happy to touch base with them. The more time I spend with Gino and Maeve, the more I like them- especially Maeve. She’s a real hoot.
The historical elements are, as always, very interesting and well- researched. This book, with a little help from the author’s note, has prompted me to do some further research and reading about investment banking.
Overall, this was a strong addition to the series! I just wish the wait time between installments wasn’t so long! 😁
October 2, 2021
This is a historical New York City mystery with mid-wife/amateur sleuth Sarah as the protagonist. Her husband, Frank is a PI along with friends and family they occasionally chime in to solve mysteries.
In Murder on Wall Street, an investment banker was shot in his office. But who would want him dead? Apparently quite a few. Jack Robinson, a recurring character is most nervous that he would become a suspect since this banker had raped his wife. From the investigation, we learn that the deceased used opium which leads to other historical facts of the time period relating to immigrants mainly the Chinese, Irish and Italian.
The author's note provides more facts on various topics mentioned in the story and is not to be missed.
I continue to enjoy the Gaslight Mystery series but have been reading them out of order. To know the cast of characters, this is best to read in order, or a few from the beginning. The mystery contains no cliffhanger. It's not a fast pacing story but it does pick up speed towards the last quarter. What drew me to this series is its time period and characters. How people dress, talk, and think is fascinating. Cobblestone roads, carriages, and motorcars. Wish time travel is real.
In Murder on Wall Street, an investment banker was shot in his office. But who would want him dead? Apparently quite a few. Jack Robinson, a recurring character is most nervous that he would become a suspect since this banker had raped his wife. From the investigation, we learn that the deceased used opium which leads to other historical facts of the time period relating to immigrants mainly the Chinese, Irish and Italian.
The author's note provides more facts on various topics mentioned in the story and is not to be missed.
I continue to enjoy the Gaslight Mystery series but have been reading them out of order. To know the cast of characters, this is best to read in order, or a few from the beginning. The mystery contains no cliffhanger. It's not a fast pacing story but it does pick up speed towards the last quarter. What drew me to this series is its time period and characters. How people dress, talk, and think is fascinating. Cobblestone roads, carriages, and motorcars. Wish time travel is real.
May 21, 2021
Eight months ago, former gangster Jack Robinson married Jocelyn Vane as part of his efforts to gain respectability in society as he transitions his businesses to legal activities. She was pregnant as the result of a rape at the time, banished by her family to Sarah Malloy’s clinic. The marriage also rescued her from scandal. Now she’s nearing the birth of her baby and their relationship has transitioned from one of friendship to much deeper feelings. When Hayden Norcross is found shot to death in his office, Jack hires private investigator Frank Malloy to find out who killed him. Hayden was the man who raped Jocelyn and Jack fears he may be accused of doing him in.
It was not only great to see what was going on in Sarah and Frank’s expanded world but to see Jack Robinson resurface. I was curious about how his marriage to Jocelyn would fare so it was satisfying that the story had them at the center. The case took unsavory turns as Jocelyn wasn’t Hayden’s only victim and he had some serious vices. Of course, there were roles for everyone in helping Frank figure out the culprit, including Sarah’s parents and their nanny/amateur investigator Maeve, who is becoming increasingly restless, wanting to be more involved in Frank’s new business.
There were also historical elements that made this an even more enjoyable reading experience. The investigation had lots of twists and angles, leading back to Chinatown and the investment banking business. Even though I guessed the killer before it was revealed, the how and why took a path I hadn’t foreseen. I love this series and was happy to be back here. This story had all of the components that keeps me coming back and now I’m interested in what the future holds for Maeve and Gino, whose relationship inched forward a bit.
It was not only great to see what was going on in Sarah and Frank’s expanded world but to see Jack Robinson resurface. I was curious about how his marriage to Jocelyn would fare so it was satisfying that the story had them at the center. The case took unsavory turns as Jocelyn wasn’t Hayden’s only victim and he had some serious vices. Of course, there were roles for everyone in helping Frank figure out the culprit, including Sarah’s parents and their nanny/amateur investigator Maeve, who is becoming increasingly restless, wanting to be more involved in Frank’s new business.
There were also historical elements that made this an even more enjoyable reading experience. The investigation had lots of twists and angles, leading back to Chinatown and the investment banking business. Even though I guessed the killer before it was revealed, the how and why took a path I hadn’t foreseen. I love this series and was happy to be back here. This story had all of the components that keeps me coming back and now I’m interested in what the future holds for Maeve and Gino, whose relationship inched forward a bit.
June 13, 2021
My only complaint about this series is that I read each book too fast and then have to wait another year for the next one.
In Murder on Wall Street we see the return of Jack Robinson, ex New York gangster, who is trying to reform himself and move into society. His wife, Jocelyn, is about to have her baby which was the product of a rape. When the man responsible for this is found murdered Jack fears he will be suspected of the crime and comes to Frank for help finding the true culprit.
Enter the rest of the team! Of course Sarah, Maeve, Gino, and Sarah and Frank's parents all get involved in trying to find out who it may be. A second murder then twists things even further and there are many possibilities to be investigated and pursued.
As usual there is plenty of historical fact thrown into the mix. We visit Chinatown and find out why so many Chinese men married Irish women. We also learn a lot about the origins of investment banking, and join Frank, Gino and Maeve as they are challenged into learning to drive one of the new motorised vehicles. Sarah's father is sure they will never catch on.
As usual the author has written a thoroughly enjoyable novel well worth five stars.
In Murder on Wall Street we see the return of Jack Robinson, ex New York gangster, who is trying to reform himself and move into society. His wife, Jocelyn, is about to have her baby which was the product of a rape. When the man responsible for this is found murdered Jack fears he will be suspected of the crime and comes to Frank for help finding the true culprit.
Enter the rest of the team! Of course Sarah, Maeve, Gino, and Sarah and Frank's parents all get involved in trying to find out who it may be. A second murder then twists things even further and there are many possibilities to be investigated and pursued.
As usual there is plenty of historical fact thrown into the mix. We visit Chinatown and find out why so many Chinese men married Irish women. We also learn a lot about the origins of investment banking, and join Frank, Gino and Maeve as they are challenged into learning to drive one of the new motorised vehicles. Sarah's father is sure they will never catch on.
As usual the author has written a thoroughly enjoyable novel well worth five stars.
April 21, 2021
It is always a pleasure to spend time with former midwife Sarah Malloy and the cast of characters who surround her. I love the late 19th century setting in NYC and the societal glimpses we get as a mystery is solved. Several old friends from previous books in the series make a reappearance in this one. We also learn more about investment banking, opium dens, and life in Chinatown. The main characters grow and change in appropriate and believable ways with each installment. Sarah's parents -- Felix and Elizabeth -- are included more and more in the investigation process. It is a treat to watch them learn the ropes and apply their unique skillsets to the hunt for answers. In 'Murder on Wall Street,' an investment banker is found dead in his office. He is the kind of guy you love to hate, so there are quite a few enemies to choose from. As they begin to zero in on the killer, the pace accelerates to an exciting and unexpected conclusion. One thing I missed a bit was Mrs. Ellsworth with her busybody ways and superstitions. Perhaps she will be given a larger role in #25.
Thank you to Berkley and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Berkley and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2021
I will be blunt: I no longer read this series for the mystery. I'm here for touching base with long-time favorite characters. I want to know how Frank and Sarah are doing; how are their kids, their parents; how's that sorta, maybe, romance between Maeve and Gino progressing. You get the idea...
The mystery here was okay; I shed no tears for the murder victim, who was such a scumbag that the list of potential Perps was long and varied. There were a couple of interesting revelations along the way, but it eventually became obvious who pulled the trigger. I did feel that the grand finale was more than a bit Over The Top.
I hope to be here this time next year, so that I can catch up with what is happening with our group of characters.
PS--I got a kick out of Frank and Sarah worrying over Teddy Roosevelt's political future. I enjoy it when the author drops a 'wink-wink' comment into the conversation.
The mystery here was okay; I shed no tears for the murder victim, who was such a scumbag that the list of potential Perps was long and varied. There were a couple of interesting revelations along the way, but it eventually became obvious who pulled the trigger. I did feel that the grand finale was more than a bit Over The Top.
I hope to be here this time next year, so that I can catch up with what is happening with our group of characters.
PS--I got a kick out of Frank and Sarah worrying over Teddy Roosevelt's political future. I enjoy it when the author drops a 'wink-wink' comment into the conversation.
June 12, 2021
Great addition to the series.
February 5, 2021
After being less than impressed with the direction this series was going, I still decided to give it one more go. Perhaps 24 books is just too many for one series, because I just don't think you can compare the earlier books in this series to the later ones. I noted in a previous review that this series started to wane when Gino and Maeve became too much of a focus, and I didn't even read the last book because it focused completely on Gino. This used to be a good historical mystery series with interesting characters and a slow burn romance but has now just become a jumble of characters who don't really do any actual detecting, but rather spend most of their time gathered together speculating - and I lost count of the number of times Thompson had characters grinning in this one. This book is mostly dialogue and doesn't even include the fun NYC facts that you usually get from this series. I just feel like it has run its course and it's time to move on.
April 14, 2021
I truly enjoyed this exciting new mystery in Victoria Thompson’s Gaslight Mystery series! Long time partners in crime-solving and now husband and wife, Frank and Sarah are the core characters in this fabulous series. Once looking through crimes from a different perspective, Frank became a PI with a firm he and Gino started after they left the New York City Police. His bride Sarah, a nurse midwife, had helped with many cases. This early 1900’s novel has a great mix of characters, interesting historical background, and a mystery that is researched by Frank and Gino, Sarah and her parents, and Maeve, who is nanny to their children and secretary in their office.
Sarah has a maternity clinic in the Lower East Side, where unmarried women can stay through their pregnancy. One of her patients, Jocelyn, who had met and married a man while there, had been raped and was pregnant by Hayden, son of a Wall Street investment banker. Jocelyn’s husband Jack was once a gangster who sold his former “holdings” and was going legit. When Hayden was found murdered in his office at the bank, Jack was worried that he could be railroaded due to Hayden’s treatment of Jocelyn and his prior activities. He hired Frank to find who the real killer was only to keep himself out of jail.
As they investigated the murder, it seemed Hayden’s parents were not too concerned about who did it, surprisingly. His young bride, also with child after he raped her, was finally free of the weeks he beat and terrorized her since her father forced their marriage, so she doesn’t care whodunit. There are many suspects, including those who lost money through a bad deal Hayden put together and partners in the bank hurt by his actions. Then another murder occurs, and the stakes are raised.
The author is a talented storyteller and researcher, making this and other novels in the series very compelling reads. She writes with intelligence, empathy, wisdom, and humor. The characters are appealing, and the mystery has many facets. There is a steady pace throughout until one gets to about the final chapters when the pages fly. I was very pleased with the ending and look forward to the next in series. I highly recommend this to anyone who appreciates well-written cozy mysteries with likable characters, a setting of early 1900’s New York City, and a hard-to-solve mystery.
Sarah has a maternity clinic in the Lower East Side, where unmarried women can stay through their pregnancy. One of her patients, Jocelyn, who had met and married a man while there, had been raped and was pregnant by Hayden, son of a Wall Street investment banker. Jocelyn’s husband Jack was once a gangster who sold his former “holdings” and was going legit. When Hayden was found murdered in his office at the bank, Jack was worried that he could be railroaded due to Hayden’s treatment of Jocelyn and his prior activities. He hired Frank to find who the real killer was only to keep himself out of jail.
As they investigated the murder, it seemed Hayden’s parents were not too concerned about who did it, surprisingly. His young bride, also with child after he raped her, was finally free of the weeks he beat and terrorized her since her father forced their marriage, so she doesn’t care whodunit. There are many suspects, including those who lost money through a bad deal Hayden put together and partners in the bank hurt by his actions. Then another murder occurs, and the stakes are raised.
The author is a talented storyteller and researcher, making this and other novels in the series very compelling reads. She writes with intelligence, empathy, wisdom, and humor. The characters are appealing, and the mystery has many facets. There is a steady pace throughout until one gets to about the final chapters when the pages fly. I was very pleased with the ending and look forward to the next in series. I highly recommend this to anyone who appreciates well-written cozy mysteries with likable characters, a setting of early 1900’s New York City, and a hard-to-solve mystery.
August 6, 2021
Eight months ago, former midwife Sarah Brandt Malloy played matchmaker. Pregnant Jocelyn Vane had been banished by her family to Sarah's maternity clinic; her baby a product of rape. Former gangster Jack Robinson was looking for a wife who would help him gain respectability. Sarah introduced them and the rest is history. With the birth of the baby coming soon, Jack has contacted Sarah's husband, Private Investigator Frank Malloy, and asked for his help. Investment Banker Hayden Norcross has been murdered. Jack is afraid that he will be accused of the murder since Hayden is the man who raped Jocelyn. He would like Frank to find he real killer.
I'm always happy to go back to Victoria Thompson's Gaslight Mystery series. I had hoped we would see more of Jack and Jocelyn after their marriage and was glad they were back in this one. Jack and his business partner Gino Donatelli start by questioning Hayden's co-workers since he was found shot to death in his office. They quickly find that everyone hated Hayden Norcross including his own family. Frank asks Sarah, their children's nanny Maeve Smith, and Sarah's parents to help with the investigation.
This mystery had a ton of suspects. It wasn't very hard to figure out who the killer was, but I still enjoyed this story. I loved catching up with the characters in this series. It's like visiting friends when I read one of these books. My rating: 4 Stars.
I'm always happy to go back to Victoria Thompson's Gaslight Mystery series. I had hoped we would see more of Jack and Jocelyn after their marriage and was glad they were back in this one. Jack and his business partner Gino Donatelli start by questioning Hayden's co-workers since he was found shot to death in his office. They quickly find that everyone hated Hayden Norcross including his own family. Frank asks Sarah, their children's nanny Maeve Smith, and Sarah's parents to help with the investigation.
This mystery had a ton of suspects. It wasn't very hard to figure out who the killer was, but I still enjoyed this story. I loved catching up with the characters in this series. It's like visiting friends when I read one of these books. My rating: 4 Stars.
June 8, 2021
Ex-gangster Jack Robinson is trying to clean up his image so he can fit into the upper crust of 19th century NYC society.
When an investment banker is found murdered in his office on Wall Street Jack believes suspicion is bound to fall on him since the banker had done him a dirty deal earlier.
Jack engages Frank Malloy (ex-policeman now turned private investigator) to find the murderer before the police can come calling on him.
Turns out the banker was disliked by almost everyone and he had some dark and nasty secrets to boot! There is no end to possible suspects and things get even worse as clues lead Frank to the opium dens in Chinatown!
Frank, Sarah and their helpers Gino and Maeve as well as Sarah’s society parents have to pull out all the stops for this one especially after the banker’s illustrious father is also found murdered.
Frank and Sarah have built a close and happy family life which has developed nicely throughout these 24 novels and leaves the reader with a happy glow for their family.
This is a light-hearted murder mystery set in New York City but in no way does it take away from the suspense or the race to the end to ensnare the real killer.
When an investment banker is found murdered in his office on Wall Street Jack believes suspicion is bound to fall on him since the banker had done him a dirty deal earlier.
Jack engages Frank Malloy (ex-policeman now turned private investigator) to find the murderer before the police can come calling on him.
Turns out the banker was disliked by almost everyone and he had some dark and nasty secrets to boot! There is no end to possible suspects and things get even worse as clues lead Frank to the opium dens in Chinatown!
Frank, Sarah and their helpers Gino and Maeve as well as Sarah’s society parents have to pull out all the stops for this one especially after the banker’s illustrious father is also found murdered.
Frank and Sarah have built a close and happy family life which has developed nicely throughout these 24 novels and leaves the reader with a happy glow for their family.
This is a light-hearted murder mystery set in New York City but in no way does it take away from the suspense or the race to the end to ensnare the real killer.
April 13, 2022
The magic of this series ebbs at times, but it is strong in this one. Jocelyn and Jack Richardson are back with Jocelyn approaching her due date.
The man who attacked Jocelyn is found murdered in his office at his investment firm and Jack hires Malloy to find his killer because Jack fears he’ll be arrested for the crime. He had been working on a plan to ruin the man financially.
The banker made a habit of assaulting society girls and he has a violent past, so there is no shortage of suspects. Sarah, Frank, and Maeve feature prominently in this one with all of the usual cast taking part as well.
There are some sweet scenes along the way where Maeve goes to Sunday dinner at Gino’s house, Sarah delivers Jocelyn’s baby and presents it to Jack, and then Frank and Sarah have a conversation about Sarah not having had a baby herself. Brian and Catherine have some beautiful scenes and Mr. Decker surprises everyone with his ASL progress.
This entire series is wonderful, but certain books stick out as the highlights. I think this will be one of them.
The man who attacked Jocelyn is found murdered in his office at his investment firm and Jack hires Malloy to find his killer because Jack fears he’ll be arrested for the crime. He had been working on a plan to ruin the man financially.
The banker made a habit of assaulting society girls and he has a violent past, so there is no shortage of suspects. Sarah, Frank, and Maeve feature prominently in this one with all of the usual cast taking part as well.
There are some sweet scenes along the way where Maeve goes to Sunday dinner at Gino’s house, Sarah delivers Jocelyn’s baby and presents it to Jack, and then Frank and Sarah have a conversation about Sarah not having had a baby herself. Brian and Catherine have some beautiful scenes and Mr. Decker surprises everyone with his ASL progress.
This entire series is wonderful, but certain books stick out as the highlights. I think this will be one of them.
November 27, 2023
Doing some catch up in the Gaslight Murder Mysteries…reading the last four this month. A new one is due out soon. I can hardly wait – reviews to follow (eventually).
Murder on Pleasant Avenue
Murder on Wall Street
Murder on Madison Square
Murder on Bedford Street
For me, all the books in the series are solid 4-4.5 Stars
Murder on Pleasant Avenue
Murder on Wall Street
Murder on Madison Square
Murder on Bedford Street
For me, all the books in the series are solid 4-4.5 Stars
May 9, 2021
Thompson’s latest instalment in the Gaslight Mystery series is another joy to read. Well, let me rephrase this. The case is an entertaining one, as always, this time focusing on the murder of a much despised society banker, while enriching our understanding of this turn-of-the-century New York City. The ‘cosy’ aspect comes from the ever growing cast and how the author develops them. Witnessing Sarah and Frank’s relationship, but also all the people that are around them, creating what is for all instances a family. I love finding out how all these protagonists fit and transform themselves, adding to the whole. Very addictive :O)
May 14, 2021
Victoria Thompson has written the long running Gaslight Mystery series that is set in New York City during the Gilded Age. The protagonists are Frank and Sarah Brandt Malloy. Frank, a former policeman, has become wealthy and has opened his own detective agency. Sarah, a midwife, is the daughter of a prominent old money Knickerbocker family that traces its lineage to the founders of New York City. Often aided by Sarah, Frank’s investigations take him from the warrens of the hoi polloi to the refined parlors of the entrenched New York aristocracy. Solving these cozy mysteries provides a physical and societal portrait of New York City at the dawn of the twentieth century.
In this twenty fourth iteration of the series, a despicable and intemperate investment banker has been murdered. His death might cause a problem for Jack Robinson, a reformed gangster who has become friendly with Frank and Sarah. Jack has reasons to hate the deceased banker and could become the prime suspect.He is about to become a new father and, having renounced his former lifestyle, is gradually gaining grudging acceptance in upper class society. Frank therefore agrees to discover the true culprit and hopefully forestall any scandal becoming attached to Jack’s name. Pursuing the case leads the couple to Wall Street banking houses, Chinatown opium dens and wealthy townhouses.They enlist the aid of their blended families and associates and provide the reader with an engaging overview of New York City as they resolve the case.
The hallmark of this book is the depiction of social issues, many of which are still relevant today. Frank and Sarah’s marriage is a “ mixed marriage” within the social context of the era. Frank is Irish Catholic at a time when prejudice and social barriers existed for this group. Marriage to an upper class Protestant was both unusual and shocking at that time. This unconventional marriage is a lever for the author to explore the biases that existed in a stratified society.Additionally, Sarah has eschewed the normal social path for her class of women and has a chosen profession of midwife and she provides services for downtrodden and dispossessed women. Her vocation leads to exploring the role and choices available to women in the Gilded Age. In this novel,the abuse of women, social prejudice and substance abuse are all concerns that are woven through the plot.Additionally, the author captures the flavor and tempo of New York City as it moves into the mechanized age. The narrative moves along at a pleasant pace and the author has created a likable supporting cast of characters. Overall, this book is an enjoyable and easy read.3.5 stars
In this twenty fourth iteration of the series, a despicable and intemperate investment banker has been murdered. His death might cause a problem for Jack Robinson, a reformed gangster who has become friendly with Frank and Sarah. Jack has reasons to hate the deceased banker and could become the prime suspect.He is about to become a new father and, having renounced his former lifestyle, is gradually gaining grudging acceptance in upper class society. Frank therefore agrees to discover the true culprit and hopefully forestall any scandal becoming attached to Jack’s name. Pursuing the case leads the couple to Wall Street banking houses, Chinatown opium dens and wealthy townhouses.They enlist the aid of their blended families and associates and provide the reader with an engaging overview of New York City as they resolve the case.
The hallmark of this book is the depiction of social issues, many of which are still relevant today. Frank and Sarah’s marriage is a “ mixed marriage” within the social context of the era. Frank is Irish Catholic at a time when prejudice and social barriers existed for this group. Marriage to an upper class Protestant was both unusual and shocking at that time. This unconventional marriage is a lever for the author to explore the biases that existed in a stratified society.Additionally, Sarah has eschewed the normal social path for her class of women and has a chosen profession of midwife and she provides services for downtrodden and dispossessed women. Her vocation leads to exploring the role and choices available to women in the Gilded Age. In this novel,the abuse of women, social prejudice and substance abuse are all concerns that are woven through the plot.Additionally, the author captures the flavor and tempo of New York City as it moves into the mechanized age. The narrative moves along at a pleasant pace and the author has created a likable supporting cast of characters. Overall, this book is an enjoyable and easy read.3.5 stars
May 20, 2021
https://openbooksociety.com/article/m...
Murder on Wall Street
Gaslight Mystery #24
By Victoria Thompson
ISBN 9781984805775
victoriathompson.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
Midwife Sarah Brandt Malloy and her detective husband, Frank, must discover who killed a prominent—but despised—society banker before an innocent family is destroyed in Murder on Wall Street, an all-new Gaslight Mystery in the USA Today bestselling series.
Reformed gangster Jack Robinson is working hard to bolster his image in Gilded Age New York City society as he prepares to become a new father. But when Hayden Norcross, the man who nearly ruined his wife, is shot in cold blood, Jack knows the police will soon come knocking on his door. Frank Malloy has to agree—things don’t look good for Jack. But surely a man as unlikeable as Hayden had more than a few enemies. And it’s soon clear that plenty of the upper echelon as well as the denizens of the most squalid areas of the city seem to have hated him.
Sarah and Frank have their work cut out for them. As the daughter of the elite Decker family, Sarah has access to the social circles Hayden frequented, and the more she learns about his horrific treatment of women, the more disturbed she becomes. And as Frank investigates, he finds that Hayden had a host of unsavory habits that may have hastened his demise. But who finally killed him? Sarah and Frank must put the pieces together quickly before time runs out and Jack’s hard-won new life and family are ripped apart. (From Amazon)
Review:
Victoria Thompson’s novels are much more than mysteries. This cozy includes humor with a charming cast of characters and relationships that enhance the story. She brings history to life, giving color and texture to years she researches well. I appreciate seeing what life and work were like before our modern conveniences and how people dealt with new technology. Regarding the new motorcars, one character’s comments include “I don’t expect this mania for motorcars to last. They’re an interesting novelty, but nothing will ever replace horses”. A passenger’s concern as a driver “careened around corners going at least ten miles per hour” brought another chuckle.
New York City in the Gilded Age is a remarkable place. From the very wealthy to those living on the street, from the cops to the gangsters, and everything in between. As in any era, people aren’t necessarily who they seem to be.
Sarah and Frank are great examples of that. Society ladies are somewhat shocked that Sarah, from one of the oldest families of New York, has been a nurse and midwife, and now has a maternity clinic on the lower East Side. Frank, an Irishman and former police detective, is now a PI and is accepted by Sarah’s father. Both of her parents enjoy helping Frank and Sarah with cases that arise from Frank’s business, even as Sarah did when Frank still worked for New York City Police.
Frank’s business partner is Gino, also formerly of the police department. Maeve, the children’s nanny, is their part-time secretary during the school year and has her own unique qualifications. Frank and Gino have a new client, Jack, a former gangster going straight. Jack is now married to Jocelyn, who had been a patient at the maternity clinic after being raped by the son and partner of an investment banker whose firm was on Wall Street.
Hayden, the man who raped Jack’s wife, was found murdered in his office at the bank. With Jack’s background and what happened to his wife before they met, he knows it could be a matter of time before the police look his way. He wants Frank to find who really killed Hayden.
Hayden leaves behind a widow of just over a month. When Sarah and her mother went to offer condolences to Violet, Sarah learned Violet had been raped by Hayden. Her father forced Hayden to marry her under threat of ruining his family’s bank and a promise of a large dowry. He had been horrible to her, playing evil tricks and beating her. She knew her father wouldn’t have killed her husband, as her parents thought she encouraged his actions.
Frank and Sarah, Gino and Maeve, and Sarah’s parents each contribute to the mystery. Hayden was disliked by most, including his own parents. His temper, opium addiction, and womanizing burned many bridges, and even his father struggles to keep him on at the bank due to his poor work ethic. From the exclusive gentlemen’s club to the opium dens, this case keeps them busy.
The main characters have been developed over the course of the series, and their lives are ever-changing. Each is defined with care, as are those who are only in this novel. The author goes beyond appearances with excellent, realistic conversation and actions. There are many scenes in which this reader almost felt as if she were there.
There are many things I appreciated in this novel. If one hasn’t read the series in order, there is sufficient backstory provided on characters. I enjoy reading the author’s historical notes, as it gives me better perspective on the facts and fiction and how thorough her research is. Plot twists heightened suspense and rearranged the suspect list. I enjoyed how well the six couples work together to gather information and put it together. While some behaviors were startling, I had an idea who the killer was. All loose ends were tied up and the conclusion was satisfying. I highly recommend this riveting read.
Murder on Wall Street
Gaslight Mystery #24
By Victoria Thompson
ISBN 9781984805775
victoriathompson.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
Midwife Sarah Brandt Malloy and her detective husband, Frank, must discover who killed a prominent—but despised—society banker before an innocent family is destroyed in Murder on Wall Street, an all-new Gaslight Mystery in the USA Today bestselling series.
Reformed gangster Jack Robinson is working hard to bolster his image in Gilded Age New York City society as he prepares to become a new father. But when Hayden Norcross, the man who nearly ruined his wife, is shot in cold blood, Jack knows the police will soon come knocking on his door. Frank Malloy has to agree—things don’t look good for Jack. But surely a man as unlikeable as Hayden had more than a few enemies. And it’s soon clear that plenty of the upper echelon as well as the denizens of the most squalid areas of the city seem to have hated him.
Sarah and Frank have their work cut out for them. As the daughter of the elite Decker family, Sarah has access to the social circles Hayden frequented, and the more she learns about his horrific treatment of women, the more disturbed she becomes. And as Frank investigates, he finds that Hayden had a host of unsavory habits that may have hastened his demise. But who finally killed him? Sarah and Frank must put the pieces together quickly before time runs out and Jack’s hard-won new life and family are ripped apart. (From Amazon)
Review:
Victoria Thompson’s novels are much more than mysteries. This cozy includes humor with a charming cast of characters and relationships that enhance the story. She brings history to life, giving color and texture to years she researches well. I appreciate seeing what life and work were like before our modern conveniences and how people dealt with new technology. Regarding the new motorcars, one character’s comments include “I don’t expect this mania for motorcars to last. They’re an interesting novelty, but nothing will ever replace horses”. A passenger’s concern as a driver “careened around corners going at least ten miles per hour” brought another chuckle.
New York City in the Gilded Age is a remarkable place. From the very wealthy to those living on the street, from the cops to the gangsters, and everything in between. As in any era, people aren’t necessarily who they seem to be.
Sarah and Frank are great examples of that. Society ladies are somewhat shocked that Sarah, from one of the oldest families of New York, has been a nurse and midwife, and now has a maternity clinic on the lower East Side. Frank, an Irishman and former police detective, is now a PI and is accepted by Sarah’s father. Both of her parents enjoy helping Frank and Sarah with cases that arise from Frank’s business, even as Sarah did when Frank still worked for New York City Police.
Frank’s business partner is Gino, also formerly of the police department. Maeve, the children’s nanny, is their part-time secretary during the school year and has her own unique qualifications. Frank and Gino have a new client, Jack, a former gangster going straight. Jack is now married to Jocelyn, who had been a patient at the maternity clinic after being raped by the son and partner of an investment banker whose firm was on Wall Street.
Hayden, the man who raped Jack’s wife, was found murdered in his office at the bank. With Jack’s background and what happened to his wife before they met, he knows it could be a matter of time before the police look his way. He wants Frank to find who really killed Hayden.
Hayden leaves behind a widow of just over a month. When Sarah and her mother went to offer condolences to Violet, Sarah learned Violet had been raped by Hayden. Her father forced Hayden to marry her under threat of ruining his family’s bank and a promise of a large dowry. He had been horrible to her, playing evil tricks and beating her. She knew her father wouldn’t have killed her husband, as her parents thought she encouraged his actions.
Frank and Sarah, Gino and Maeve, and Sarah’s parents each contribute to the mystery. Hayden was disliked by most, including his own parents. His temper, opium addiction, and womanizing burned many bridges, and even his father struggles to keep him on at the bank due to his poor work ethic. From the exclusive gentlemen’s club to the opium dens, this case keeps them busy.
The main characters have been developed over the course of the series, and their lives are ever-changing. Each is defined with care, as are those who are only in this novel. The author goes beyond appearances with excellent, realistic conversation and actions. There are many scenes in which this reader almost felt as if she were there.
There are many things I appreciated in this novel. If one hasn’t read the series in order, there is sufficient backstory provided on characters. I enjoy reading the author’s historical notes, as it gives me better perspective on the facts and fiction and how thorough her research is. Plot twists heightened suspense and rearranged the suspect list. I enjoyed how well the six couples work together to gather information and put it together. While some behaviors were startling, I had an idea who the killer was. All loose ends were tied up and the conclusion was satisfying. I highly recommend this riveting read.
August 9, 2021
It's not every series that can hold my attention for twenty-four volumes. I did figure out who the murderer was relatively early, but the story is good enough that it really didn't matter.
May 25, 2021
Even after 24 books, this series remains one of my favorites.
December 14, 2022
Enjoyable mystery with the familiar characters.
May 24, 2021
I love when a series brings back characters that were highlighted in another book. I enjoyed this latest book and can't wait for the next.
June 8, 2021
3.5 stars. Always a relaxing read to check in with Frank and Sarah Malloy and company.
This long-running series, (this is #24), has had some uneven patches, mostly where the author didn’t seem sure what to do with a romantic relationship; first it was Sarah and Frank, now it’s a younger couple, Sarah’s nanny, Maeve, and former cop-turned private investigator Gino Donatelli. Luckily, Thompson doesn’t dwell too much on the “will they, won’t they” aspects of their courtship, and it doesn’t take away from the main mystery.
In this case, a former gangster trying to go straight approaches Frank to investigate a shooting. A wealthy investment banker’s son has been shot in his office on Wall Street; the young man had recently married, but had an unsavory reputation with women. He had been made to marry his well-born wife after raping her and impregnating her, and had also raped and impregnated the ex-gangster’s wife before their marriage. He’s afraid the police will see him as a prime suspect in the murder of the vicious young man, to avenge his wife; Frank starts investigating, and no one has a kind word to say about the murder victim. There are plenty of ugly secrets in his family’s past, as well; in that way, this felt like a return to the earlier books of the series, when Sarah and Frank investigated the sleazy, dark underbelly of wealthy New York society. Sarah’s parents chip in with the investigating, as this is their milieu, and they know the ways of these wealthy families.
I enjoyed this outing, and look forward to the next -these are cozy, but not sappy, just relaxing, like playing a game of Clue when I was a kid!
This long-running series, (this is #24), has had some uneven patches, mostly where the author didn’t seem sure what to do with a romantic relationship; first it was Sarah and Frank, now it’s a younger couple, Sarah’s nanny, Maeve, and former cop-turned private investigator Gino Donatelli. Luckily, Thompson doesn’t dwell too much on the “will they, won’t they” aspects of their courtship, and it doesn’t take away from the main mystery.
In this case, a former gangster trying to go straight approaches Frank to investigate a shooting. A wealthy investment banker’s son has been shot in his office on Wall Street; the young man had recently married, but had an unsavory reputation with women. He had been made to marry his well-born wife after raping her and impregnating her, and had also raped and impregnated the ex-gangster’s wife before their marriage. He’s afraid the police will see him as a prime suspect in the murder of the vicious young man, to avenge his wife; Frank starts investigating, and no one has a kind word to say about the murder victim. There are plenty of ugly secrets in his family’s past, as well; in that way, this felt like a return to the earlier books of the series, when Sarah and Frank investigated the sleazy, dark underbelly of wealthy New York society. Sarah’s parents chip in with the investigating, as this is their milieu, and they know the ways of these wealthy families.
I enjoyed this outing, and look forward to the next -these are cozy, but not sappy, just relaxing, like playing a game of Clue when I was a kid!
May 29, 2022
3.5/5 stars, but rounding up
I really liked a lot about this one, but I found the resolution of the mystery plot just a tad bit unsatisfying.
The personal stuff here was great all around, but the two standout scenes were Maeve having dinner with Gino's family and the reveal that Mr. Decker has been learning ASL so he can speak with Brian!! Obviously also loved the final scene between Frank and Sarah, too.
I really liked a lot about this one, but I found the resolution of the mystery plot just a tad bit unsatisfying.
The personal stuff here was great all around, but the two standout scenes were Maeve having dinner with Gino's family and the reveal that Mr. Decker has been learning ASL so he can speak with Brian!! Obviously also loved the final scene between Frank and Sarah, too.
June 30, 2021
An enjoyable, cozy entry in the continuing adventures of Sarah and Frank. Though the mystery itself wasn't too challenging, I quite enjoyed the pieces of historical information, the look at racial and gender biases, and the evolving relationship between Sarah and Frank and the parents. Unlike the past couple of stories, the amount of time spent with Gino and Maeve was greatly decreased, and I preferred that, as well. Looking forward to the next one - can't help but feel like there was a teaser there at the end.
March 14, 2022
Read this in one day, which is entirely Grace's fault.
I continue to enjoy how Thompson has broadened the core characters of this series without short changing them or making it feel like a different series altogether. It's also nice to see how much they've all grown and changed without, again, coming across as completely unfamiliar people.
The ending of this was a little much, but the setting and characters continue to shine. 3.5 stars.
I continue to enjoy how Thompson has broadened the core characters of this series without short changing them or making it feel like a different series altogether. It's also nice to see how much they've all grown and changed without, again, coming across as completely unfamiliar people.
The ending of this was a little much, but the setting and characters continue to shine. 3.5 stars.
October 8, 2021
Add this to another satisfying Gaslight Mystery. Victoria Thompson never disappoints with her action packed plots and surprising solutions. Sarah's and Malloy's story advances along with Gino's and Maeve's. There are interesting developments with some past characters. I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment in this series.
April 23, 2022
Another enjoyable read!
August 24, 2021
As usual, Victoria Thompson never fails to satisfy and leave you with a wonderful sigh of contentment at the end. Sarah and Frank are wonderful together, and I love the how the relationship between Maeve and Gino is developing. But most of all, it's all wrapped up in a wonderful mystery that will keep you guessing right until the end. It's only drawback is that it left me wanting more, which is definitely not a bad thing.
December 22, 2024
3.5 stars.
Dec 2024 - re-listened.
___________
August 2023 - re-listened.
___________
July 2021
The latest instalment of the Gaslight Mystery is a fairly simple whodunnit. I think I guessed the culprit pretty much from the start and it was only a matter of the gang catching up. It's good to see ex-gangster Jack back in the picture (he really does remind me of J.D. Robb's Roarke).
Also funny how Frank is sure the motorcar is just a fad and there's more progress in the romance between Maeve and Gino, although I do believe they seem a bit too young for marriage yet.
All in all, this series has become one of those comfort reads for me with a familiar set of characters that I'm sure I'll want to revisit when the next book comes along.
Dec 2024 - re-listened.
___________
August 2023 - re-listened.
___________
July 2021
The latest instalment of the Gaslight Mystery is a fairly simple whodunnit. I think I guessed the culprit pretty much from the start and it was only a matter of the gang catching up. It's good to see ex-gangster Jack back in the picture (he really does remind me of J.D. Robb's Roarke).
Also funny how Frank is sure the motorcar is just a fad and there's more progress in the romance between Maeve and Gino, although I do believe they seem a bit too young for marriage yet.
All in all, this series has become one of those comfort reads for me with a familiar set of characters that I'm sure I'll want to revisit when the next book comes along.
June 2, 2021
Why do I keep reading these predictable nonsense books? Because I love Gilded Age NYC!!! This one had me doing a further dive into the Knickerbocker Club and early investment firms on Wall Street - both intriguing topics. Unlike this book which was close to literal trash. Sarah and Frank are annoyingly banal. And now the wealthy parents are meddling as well... ugh. It's just too much.
March 10, 2021
"Murder on Wall Street" is a historical mystery set in New York City in 1900. This is the 24th book in the series. You don't need to read the previous books to understand this one, and this one didn't spoil the whodunit of the previous mysteries.
This was a clue-based puzzle mystery. Frank, Gino, Sarah, and her parents all helped with the investigation and used their unique skill sets. They asked good questions and investigated many leads, but there were many people who didn't like the murdered man so they had many suspects. Whodunit was a strong suspect for me from the beginning, but I understood why they weren't guessing that person. I wasn't sure if that person had help, though. What happened became clearer as they collected clues. I like that Sarah genuinely helps victims rather than pushing her way into investigating a crime simply for her amusement.
Some interesting historical details were woven into the story. The main characters were nice, engaging people and had realistic reactions to events. There were no sex scenes or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting historical mystery.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
This was a clue-based puzzle mystery. Frank, Gino, Sarah, and her parents all helped with the investigation and used their unique skill sets. They asked good questions and investigated many leads, but there were many people who didn't like the murdered man so they had many suspects. Whodunit was a strong suspect for me from the beginning, but I understood why they weren't guessing that person. I wasn't sure if that person had help, though. What happened became clearer as they collected clues. I like that Sarah genuinely helps victims rather than pushing her way into investigating a crime simply for her amusement.
Some interesting historical details were woven into the story. The main characters were nice, engaging people and had realistic reactions to events. There were no sex scenes or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting historical mystery.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
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