Murder at Hartigan House

Murder at Hartigan House is the second book in the Ginger Gold Mystery series, set in 1920s London. Chief Inspector Basil Reed calls upon American-born Lady Ginger Gold to assist in solving a murder at the Hartigan House finishing school for girls. Ginger Gold, a former spy during WWI and now owner of a fashion boutique, must navigate the world of upper-class education while uncovering secrets within the school's walls. The investigation reveals connections between the victim and multiple suspects, including staff members and students at the prestigious institution. The story incorporates elements of fashion, class dynamics, and post-war British society as Ginger works to piece together the mystery. Her own experience with loss and trauma from the war influences her approach to the investigation and her interactions with those involved. This cozy mystery explores themes of privilege, education, and the changing roles of women in 1920s Britain. The narrative touches on the tension between traditional values and modern sensibilities during this transformative period in history.

Readers call this a fast-paced cozy mystery that evokes 1920s England through period details and language. Most highlight the historical accuracy and character development, particularly how protagonist Rosa shows growth from previous books in the series. Readers liked: - The intricate mystery plot with multiple suspects - Authentic Jazz Age atmosphere and dialogue - The evolving romance between Rosa and Miguel - Clean content without graphic violence Common criticisms: - Some found the pacing slow in the middle sections - A few reviewers wanted more depth to supporting characters - Several mentions of predictable plot elements Ratings: Goodreads: 4.4/5 (1,289 ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (856 reviews) BookBub: 4.5/5 (247 ratings) "Perfect balance of mystery, history and romance," wrote one Amazon reviewer. Another noted: "The details transport you right back to the 1920s, though the middle dragged a bit."

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A Study in Scarlet Women by Sherry Thomas A female detective in 1880s London solves murders while living under the assumed identity of Sherlock Holmes.

A Curious Beginning by Deanna Raybourn A Victorian-era lepidopterist teams up with a detective to solve murders after an attempt on her life connects to a larger conspiracy.

Murder on Black Swan Lane by Andrea Penrose A Regency-era aristocrat joins forces with a chemist to investigate deaths connected to London's scientific circles.

The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley An eleven-year-old chemistry prodigy in 1950s England uses her knowledge of poisons to solve a murder at her family's estate.

📚 Set in the 1920s, the novel features Ginger Gold, a former British Secret Service agent turned amateur sleuth who brings a unique perspective to solving crimes 🎭 The story incorporates authentic details of the Art Deco movement and post-WWI London society, reflecting the author's commitment to historical accuracy 👗 The protagonist's fashion-forward sensibilities and ownership of a dress shop (Feathers & Flair) add a layer of vintage style to the mystery narrative 🏰 Hartigan House represents the classic "locked room mystery" tradition popularized by Golden Age detective fiction writers like Agatha Christie ✈️ Author Lee Strauss has written over 20 books in the Ginger Gold Mystery series, with each book featuring period-specific historical events and social issues as backdrops to the mysteries