The first novel in the national bestselling Gaslight Mystery series introduces Sarah Brandt, a midwife in the turn-of-the-century tenements of Manhattan who refuses to turn a blind eye to the injustices of the crime-ridden city… of Sergeant Frank Malloy, she searches the girl’s room. She discovers that the victim is from one of the most prominent families in New York—and the sister of an old friend. The powerful family, fearful of scandal, refuses to permit an investigation. But with Malloy’s help, Sarah begins a dangerous quest to bring the killer to justice—before death claims another victim…
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If you love historical mysteries, this is the first book in the best series for you! I love these books and this author. Victoria Thompson is basically why I wrote Murder in the Forbidden City.
Midwife and widow Sarah Brandt is delivering a baby at a boarding house when she gets a glimpse of a young woman who’s an occupant. She’s stunned to hear later that this girl has been murdered. Moreover, Sarah knows the young lady’s family through her aristocratic roots. Assigned to the case is police detective Frank Malloy, who at first is curt but who comes to appreciate Sarah’s insights as well as her connections to New York’s elite. As more bodies turn up, so do scandalous family secrets someone would kill to keep. Murder on Astor Place is a compelling mystery with distinctive characters, an evocative setting, and unexpected plot twists. Readers will be eager to read the entire series.
I’ve been on a historical mystery kick, so I thought I’d try this series. Only a few weeks later, I’m already on book 10! Compulsively readable, great characters, fascinating glimpse into NY back in the day. Highly recommend!
This is one of my favorite series. I love the interaction of all the characters. There is a lot of historical data. I find myself turning to Wikipedia a lot. Great series!
This story takes place in the late 1890’s about a midwife Sarah Brandt helping with a routine delivery of a young girl and discovers another young girl in the boarding house that has been murdered. Sarah’s women in high society were mainly married off by their parents and the poorer families had their children work at a very early age. This is narrated very well and I could visualize what was going one in each chapter. Sarah helps the New York policeman, Sergeant Frank Malloy and both of them discover horrible secrets.
Midwife Sarah Brandt is returning to visit a mother and newborn when she learns there has been a death at the home. A boarder was strangled during the night, and it turns out this is the younger sister of someone she knew years ago. Determined to see justice done, Sarah teams up with the very reluctant Frank Malloy, the detective assigned to the case, to find the killer.
This book really does feature two detectives as both Sarah and Frank are active contributors to seeing justice done. The hopping back and forth between them only enhances the story and gives us more twists. All the characters are strong as well, and I truly liked spending time with them, especially the leads. I did feel the climax was over the top, but that is my only complaint with this mystery.
I have read every single book in the Gaslight series. They are all a wonderful read. The characters are easy to relate to and interesting. I love learning about both midwifery and the historical time period. Her research is impeccable and makes the stories so real! I highly recommend the entire series.
In book 1 of the Gaslight series, a turn of the century midwife and a detective, who couldn’t be more her opposite, team together to solve a murder involving an occupant at a boarding house. Love the characters and the New York City setting during this era. Similar to Rhys Bowen’s Molly Murphy series, which I loved.
I’ve read the entire series. Loved the characters and historical aspects.
I like this series but don’t love it & don’t quite believe the Olde NYC being described. Historical errors don’t inspire confidence, although most people won’t be reading it for midwifery history & I do! Would rather read “Call The Midwife.”