I read a review of the latest addition to the Gaslight series (a mystery in old New York City). It was a favorable review but I have no idea where I saw it. The series involves several murder investigations in old New York City. Yes back in the 1890s when Teddy Roosevelt was a New York City Police Commissioner.

I like some historical fiction and a good mystery so I thought I would give it a try but Murder in Murray Hill which was the new one was 16th in the Gaslight series. So it seemed to me that it was better to start at the beginning.

I did a bit of looking around and learned that Murder on Astor Place was the first in the series. And our local library copy had a copy but there was a waiting list. Maybe others had the same idea. So I put my name on the list and waited. Several weeks later, it was my turn.

Before getting into the book I should mention that the series is by Victoria Thompson. The only copy in our library system was a mass market paperback and it appeared to be published in 1999. From condition of the library copy, I would guess it had seen a fair amount of use over the years.

Because Murder on Astor Place is the first in the series it gives a good introduction to the main characters in the series, a New York City detective and a midwife.

I enjoyed the setting. I like reading the New York City of that time because many of my ancestors lived in that New York City.

The mystery was a good one. Whenever I thought I had it figured out, another fact was revealed that proved me wrong but seemed to indicate I was getting closer to the truth. Victoria Thompson knows how to plot a mystery and tells an interesting story about social mores in the 1890s at the same time.

Based on my reading of this mystery in old New York City and reviews of other mysteries in the Gaslight series, I would think any would be a pleasure to read but I’d suggest starting at the beginning.

I’m glad I started at the beginning of the series but if you don’t for some reason, I have read that Murder in Murray Hill is also a good read.

In both cases my graphics link to the Amazon page that informs you about the versions available as well as having reader reviews. Explore and enjoy!