2019 Challenges, Historical Mystery

Murder on Sisters’ Row by Victoria Thompson

Jonetta | Blue Mood Café

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Midwife Sarah Brandt is taken to what she first believes is a boardinghouse for women to help with an imminent delivery for one of the residents. It soon dawns on her that the house is a brothel and her patient asks for her help to escape. She’s given the name of a woman known to help young women like her patient. Sarah agrees to do so and visits the woman, Vivian Van Orner, and gets in deeper than she’d envisioned, enough that she gets a visit from Detective Sergeant Frank Malloy.

 

 

One of the staples of this series is the introduction of some new factoid, at least new to this reader. This time it’s seven houses on West 25th Street in New York City called Sisters’ Row, all brothels run by seven sisters and considered to be the most expensive bordellos in the city. One of these houses was the site of our fictional story. Another frequent reference was to the “Gibson Girl” look worn by one of the women. I’d heard of it before but wasn’t familiar with the look until I saw a representation (see below).

 

 

The story itself was equally interesting, especially when Mrs. Van Orner ends up dead. There’s no shortage of suspects and I changed my pick several times, only to miss the true villain entirely. Sarah and Frank worked as a team, this time at his request! I liked how they planned out the investigation and assembled the clues to hone in on the killer. And, Sarah showed some real skills in this one. This series continues to keep me entertained and excited to start the next story.

Book Info

  • Release Date: June 1, 2011
  • Series: Gaslight Mystery #13
  • Page Numbers: 304

 

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Published by Jonetta | Blue Mood Café

20 thoughts on “Murder on Sisters’ Row by Victoria Thompson”

  5. Wow amazing review as always. This is the one that had the pretty cover and there are at least 13 titles in the series. Hmm it is the kind of historical I would read. I’m working on the Sherry Thomas series about Charlotte Holmes at the moment. Anne – Books of My Heart

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  6. Wonderful review! I read a book from this author late last year and really enjoyed it, I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things about the series, maybe someday?💜

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  7. Another excellent review, Jonetta. I just want you to know how much I appreciate the cafe. I experienced a reading epiphany after stopping in here not so long ago. I’ve read several books lately, just totally for fun, and it’s awesome. I have nominated you for a Sunshine Blogger Award. I am grateful for you and your work here, and I hope others discover your wonderful blog. 🙂

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  9. Every time I see a review for this series I wish I was reading it. I absolutely have to go and find the first one right now! Terrific review Jonetta! BTW, we have vintage photos of some “Gibson Girls” in one of our guest rooms here at the inn.

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