Category: Historical Mystery

A Murderous Business by Cathy Pegau

On By BarbaraIn Barb's Reviews, Historical Mystery, Part of a SeriesLeave a comment

A Murderous BusinessBarbara’s rating: 3.4 out of 5 Stars
Series: A Harriman & Mancini Mystery #1
Publication Date: 9/16/25
Period: 1912, New York
Number of Pages: 304

This is a sapphic murder mystery set in 1912 New York. The news of the Titanic sinking fills the air; women cannot vote; women cannot even have their own bank account, yet Margot Baxter Harriman is determined to continue running her deceased father’s cannery – B&H Foods.

The atmospheric opening with Margo entering the cannery to find the body of Mrs. Giana Gilroy, her father’s retired assistant, gives you chill bumps. Then, with the police ready to close the case as death by natural causes, Margo knows she has to hire a private detective if she wants the truth.

Loretta (Rett) Mancini has run her father’s investigative agency since he began to experience memory loss. When Margo gave her the opportunity to investigate what happened to Giana and the mystery behind the letter she was writing, Rett jumped at it.

As they wind their way through the clues, they find there are many secrets within Margo’s father’s company – and a villain who is willing to take their lives.

This is a well-plotted, well-paced mystery with strong, well-developed main characters as well as relatable supporting characters.

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

 

A Moment’s Shadow by Anna Lee Huber

On By BarbaraIn Barb's Reviews, Historical Mystery, Interwar Period (Nov 1918 - Sep 1939), Part of a SeriesLeave a comment

A Moment's Shadow (Verity Kent Mysteries, #8)Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Verity Kent Mysteries #8
Publication Date: 8/26/25
Period: Post World War I – Ireland (1920)
Number of Pages: 368

A Gripping, Emotionally Charged Historical Mystery

This intense, nail-biting, heart-wrenching story has everything it needs to hold your attention and keep you turning the pages. The author masterfully evokes the fear, tension, and emotional complexity of a turbulent, war-torn time. I’m always cautious about how writers handle stories set during politically sensitive eras, but Ms. Huber treats both the British and the IRA with fairness and nuance.

Verity and Sidney remain in Dublin, racing against time to locate the deadly phosgene gas cylinders before the arch-villain Lord Ardmore unleashes devastation. They don’t know whether he intends to use it against the Irish or the English—only that the danger is imminent and widespread. With Lord Ardmore’s influence reaching deep into the police and government, Verity and Sidney are on their own, navigating a minefield of danger, betrayal, and uncertainty. Will they find the gas in time? Will they bring Ardmore down—or walk into a deadly trap?

The story grips you from the very first page and doesn’t let go—not even after the cliffhanger of all cliffhangers at the end. Days later, I’m still thinking about the suspense and emotional stakes. I especially love Alec, whose divided loyalties add another compelling layer to the narrative, and I’m hopeful for a positive turn in his arc as the series continues. Sidney and Verity are facing greater danger than ever, and the uncertainty of their fate makes this a truly unforgettable read.

If you love a well-paced, immersive mystery with rich historical detail and morally complex characters, this book is for you. A thoroughly excellent tale!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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