4.02
Part of "Gaslight Mystery" series
In the midst of the Gilded Age, New York City sees its share of crime and corruption, but none so personal as the murders that strike at the heart of its communities. In Victoria Thompson's Murder on Gramercy Park, the first installment of the Gaslight Mystery series, readers are introduced to Sarah Brandt, a midwife and widow of a prominent doctor, and Frank Malloy, a detective in the New York City Police Department. When a young woman is found dead in the park, Sarah and Frank find themselves drawn together in a quest for justice that will challenge their assumptions about class, power, and the true nature of evil. Thompson's prose is clear and evocative, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and smells of late 19th-century New York City. Her characters are richly drawn and sympathetic, with Sarah and Frank serving as compelling foils for one another. Sarah's background in medicine and her connections to the city's elite give her unique insight into the case, while Frank's experience as a detective and his working-class upbringing provide a gritty counterpoint. Murder on Gramercy Park is a masterful blend of historical detail and gripping suspense. Thompson's depiction of the era's social hierarchies and the struggles of women and the working class is both nuanced and thought-provoking. At the same time, the novel's central mystery is both intriguing and satisfying, with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing until the very end. Overall, Murder on Gramercy Park is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and mystery novels alike. Its engaging characters, vivid setting, and gripping plot make it a standout addition to any bookshelf. Whether you're a seasoned mystery reader or new to the genre, Thompson's writing is sure to captivate and inspire you...
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