MYSTERY

The Case of the Missing Maid

Kensington. (Harriet Morrow Investigates, Bk. 1). Dec. 2024. 320p. ISBN 9781496749482. $27. M
COPY ISBN
The first in a new historical mystery series by Osler (“Hayden and Friends” novels), who is an Edgar, Anthony, Left Coast Crime, Macavity, and Agatha Award finalist and an MWA Robert L. Fish Award winner. In 1898, women have few rights and are expected to be married and caring for home and family. At 21, Harriet Morrow wants to break the mold. Raised by free-thinking parents, she was encouraged to be herself. She is owner of a Chicago apartment, caring for her younger brother and working as a bookkeeper. Seeking a different path, she applies for a position as a private investigator. To her surprise, she is hired on a trial basis at the Prescott Agency and tasked with finding a missing maid in one week. With little guidance, she begins her investigation, stumbling her way through the search, which takes her into Chicago’s Polish community, the organized crime underworld, and a grand Prairie Avenue estate, not to mention the underground gay and lesbian community of 1898.
VERDICT Osler has created a likable heroine, a good mystery, and a solid LGBTQIA+ fiction entry.
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


RELATED 

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?