ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Gino Donatelli is accused of a brutal murder, beloved sleuths Sarah and Frank Malloy have to catch a killer who is out to destroy their innocent friend's life in the latest installment of the national bestselling Gaslight mysteries.
A victim is found, brutally murdered and the police are certain they've caught the killer. Their only suspect: Gino Donatelli.
Frank and Sarah know Gino is innocent but the police have a one-track mind. Once Frank struck it rich and left their ranks taking Gino with him, there has been a simmering resentment in the department. And now, someone has pulled out all the stops to make it look like Gino is the only one who could have committed the crime.
With the clock ticking and evidence mounting against their friend, Sarah and Frank will try to unravel a treacherous plot before Gino is sent up the river for good.
READ AN EXCERPT:
MY REVIEW:
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Murder on Pleasant Avenue by Victoria Thompson is a 2020 Berkley publication.
A nail- biting historical mystery and adventure!!
Over the past couple of months, I have been fortunate to have several of my favorite mystery authors publish a new novel. I have found it quite comforting to touch base with familiar characters and landscapes, so the timing of this latest release couldn't have been better.
In this 23rd installment of the Gaslight series, we get to know Gino Donatelli a little better- although not under the best of circumstances. Gino’s sister-in-law asks for help concerning a settlement house resident who appears to have gone missing, the main concern being the possibility the young woman may have been kidnapped by ‘The Black Hand’- a gang operating in Little Italy- East Harlem.
As Frank and Gino begin their investigation, it becomes clear they need help from Sarah and Maeve while dealing with sensitive situations. But, in a horrible turn of events, Gino becomes a murder suspect, which lands him in jail. Not only that, he could be in grave danger. Can Frank find the real murderer before it’s too late?
Victoria Thompson always provides the most interesting history in her books. Seriously, every novel is like a mini history lesson- and it is always fascinating! This story is no exception. I always find myself Googling something, curious to learn more. This installment shines a light on the 'Black Hand' gang, of which I knew practically nothing.
As to the mystery, there are some tense moments of suspense, as the behavior of some of the characters becomes curiously erratic. It was an absorbing and puzzling situation. Naturally, I worried about Gino, who can be a bit stubborn.
On a lighter note, I found myself grinning with delight over some key developments between the recurring characters and I'm betting fans of this series will be just as pleased as I am!
Overall, I am impressed with how Thompson continues to keep this series fresh. Great characters, interesting history, and compelling mysteries- what’s not to love?
GRAB YOUR COPY HERE:
https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Pleasant-Avenue-Gaslight-Mystery-ebook/dp/B07VP1NZH8/
https://www.amazon.com/Murder-on-Pleasant-Avenue/dp/B0892PFM8W/
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/murder-on-pleasant-avenue-victoria-thompson/1132704795
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Edgar® Nominated author Victoria Thompson writes the Edgar and Agatha Award nominated Gaslight Mystery Series, set in turn-of-the-century New York City and featuring midwife Sarah Brandt, and the Sue Grafton Award nominated Counterfeit Lady Series set in early twentieth century New York City and featuring con artist Elizabeth Miles. She also contributed to the award winning writing textbook MANY GENRES/ONE CRAFT. A popular speaker, Victoria teaches in the Seton Hill University master's program in writing popular fiction. She lives in the Chicago area with her husband and a very spoiled little dog.