4.07
Part of "Gaslight Mystery" series
In the latest installment of Victoria Thompson's beloved Gaslight Mystery series, "Murder on Mulberry Bend" (Berkley, 2021), midwife Sarah Brandt and detective Frank Malloy are once again called upon to solve a gripping murder mystery in the heart of New York City. Set against the backdrop of the bustling and chaotic Five Points neighborhood, Thompson expertly weaves a tale of intrigue, deception, and danger. When a prominent businessman is found dead in a seedy opium den, Malloy and Brandt must navigate the treacherous waters of New York's criminal underworld to uncover the truth. As they delve deeper into the case, they discover that the victim had ties to a powerful and corrupt political machine, as well as a shadowy criminal organization. With danger lurking around every corner, the duo must race against time to solve the murder before they become the next victims. Thompson's vivid and atmospheric writing brings the gritty world of Five Points to life, immersing the reader in a time and place that is both familiar and foreign. Her characters are richly drawn and complex, with Sarah Brandt's intelligence and compassion providing a compelling counterpoint to Frank Malloy's hard-boiled detective work. One of the strengths of this series is Thompson's ability to balance the thrilling mystery plotlines with thoughtful explorations of social issues, and "Murder on Mulberry Bend" is no exception. The novel touches on themes of corruption, poverty, and the exploitation of the vulnerable, giving it a depth and resonance that elevates it above many other mystery novels. Overall, "Murder on Mulberry Bend" is a gripping and engaging addition to Victoria Thompson's Gaslight Mystery series. Fans of historical mysteries, as well as those who enjoy character-driven novels with a strong sense of place, will find much to love in this compelling and atmospheric tale...
Chris Pavone
The Expats
For readers who enjoyed the suspenseful plot twists in 'Murder on Mulberry Bend', 'The Expats' is a great choice. Set in modern-day Europe, a former CIA agent discovers that her husband is hiding a dangerous secret that threatens their family's safety.
Learn MoreMichael Chabon
The Yiddish Policemen's Union
For readers who enjoyed the diverse cast of characters in 'Murder on Mulberry Bend', 'The Yiddish Policemen's Union' is a great choice. Set in an alternate history where Jewish refugees have established a temporary state in Alaska, a detective investigates a murder that could have far-reaching consequences for the entire community.
Learn MoreErik Larson
The Devil in the White City
Fans of historical true crime will appreciate 'The Devil in the White City'. Set during the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago, the book tells the story of two men: a brilliant architect and a serial killer who uses the fair to lure his victims.
Learn MoreUmberto Eco
The Name of the Rose
For readers who enjoyed the intellectual challenges and historical detail in 'Murder on Mulberry Bend', 'The Name of the Rose' is a great choice. Set in a 14th-century Italian monastery, a Franciscan friar and his young apprentice investigate a series of murders linked to a forbidden book.
Learn MoreHelene Wecker
The Golem and the Jinni
Fans of historical fiction with a touch of fantasy will appreciate 'The Golem and the Jinni'. Set in 1899 New York City, the book tells the story of a golem and a jinni who must navigate the complexities of human society while hiding their true natures.
Learn MoreDiane Setterfield
The Thirteenth Tale
For readers who enjoyed the atmospheric setting and complex plot twists in 'Murder on Mulberry Bend', 'The Thirteenth Tale' is a great choice. Set in a crumbling English mansion, a reclusive author reveals her darkest secrets to a young biographer, leading to a series of shocking revelations.
Learn MoreEdith Wharton
The House of Mirth
Fans of historical fiction with strong female characters will appreciate 'The House of Mirth'. Set in early 20th-century New York City, the book tells the story of a young woman who must navigate the treacherous waters of high society while struggling to maintain her independence and dignity.
Learn More