Book Review: Murder on Astor Place

Reviewed By: Carol Schwaderer Dickinson - RAM

Murder on Astor Place     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Victoria Thompson
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Historical   Romantic Suspense   Police Procedural
Series: Gaslight Mysteries # 1
Berkley Prime Crime; 1999; $5.99; 278 pp

Set in New York during Teddy Roosevelt's police commissioner years, this first of a series reads like it was written by a very experienced writer with excellent characterization and sense of place although the underlying theme tied to plot was somewhat transparent.

The heroine is a young widowed midwife born into NY high society but serving the poorest population in the slums. There's an interesting police officer who wants to be honest but thinks the reforms are temporary and the corrupt system will return. It was a very good read in every respect. And while its not quite a cozy, I can't imagine anyone who prefers cozies finding this book objectionable although it does deal with unwed mothers and abortion issues at the turn of the last century.

Carol Schwaderer Dickinson - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Carol Schwaderer Dickinson - RAM