Publishers Weekly
07/19/2021
In Maxwell’s lively ninth Gilded Newport mystery (after 2020’s Murder at Kingscote), journalist Emma Cross, a cousin “twice or thrice removed” from Cornelius Vanderbilt II, who has recently died, attends an Elizabethan-themed fete at Wakehurst, the Van Alen family estate in Newport, R.I. The entertainment consists of archery competitions, jesters, actors, and musicians. When a jousting exhibition is announced, Emma, who’s in no mood for partying after Cornelius’s death, has had enough. As she’s walking away from the festivities, she hears the insistent barking of the Van Alen dogs. Following the sound, she finds Judge Clayton Schuyler dead, an arrow protruding from his chest. In the past, Emma has depended on helpful police detective Jessie White in her sleuthing, but Jessie’s replacement, Det. Gifford Myers, tells her to stay out of his investigation, adding, “I see you can’t help yourself, but for your own sake, you had better learn some self-control.” Maxwell once again exposes the underhanded doings of the wealthy ruling class while providing plenty of fascinating historical background. This entry is bound to delight both established fans and new readers. Agent: Evan Marshall, Evan Marshall Agency. (Sept.)
From the Publisher
Praise for Alyssa Maxwell’s Gilded Newport Mysteries
“The sense of place and history is palpable and the inclusion of historical figures and the intricate crimes make this a very entertaining, worthwhile series.”
—The New York Public Library on the Gilded Newport Mystery series
“Numerous plot twists, a richly described 1898 setting, details of the lives and times of the rich, and a principled, smart main character who is making her own way in the world distinguish this entry in the series. It will appeal to those who enjoy historical mysteries with strong, ahead-of-their-times female characters.”
—Booklist on Murder at Crossways
“Alyssa Maxwell entertains readers once again…a light, summer-time read perfect for the beach.
—Newport This Week on Murder at Crossways
“The setting and historical details are vibrant and colorful, especially real-life figure Mamie Fish—a grand dame in every sense of the phrase—and the glittering fashions and homes of the Newport rich. The Harvest Festival itself is more than worth the price of admission.”
—Criminal Elementon Murder at Crossways
“Maxwell gives an honest portrayal of the Gilded Age, its pretentious high society, and the second-class status of women. Using just the right period details, Maxwell puts the reader into the story without bogging down the unfolding murder mystery. Fans of the series will enjoy this caper.”
—Historical Novel Societyon Murder at Crossways
“Plenty of red herrings and an intimate look at the world of the wealthy and famous make for a rich broth of a mystery.”
—Kirkus Reviews on Murder at Ochre Court
“Maxwell dramatically depicts the era’s contentious transition from gaslight to electricity…Series fans will enjoy following Emma’s changing circumstances.”
—Publishers Weekly on Murder at Ochre Court
“A sweet, delightful mystery, which is sure to appeal to historical-fiction and mystery readers alike.”
—Foreword Reviews on A Pinch of Poison
“The characters are fun, the dialogue is both charming and intelligent, but the scenery that makes up that extravagant time period in New England really is the gem in these glorious tales.”
—Suspense Magazine on Murder at Rough Point
“Several cuts above the usual feisty heroine tale; it provides a good picture of life among the privileged—and not-so-privileged—classes in Gilded Newport.”
—San Jose Mercury News on Murder at Beechwood
Kirkus Reviews
2021-06-02
Murder once more stalks the wealthy cottagers of Newport, Rhode Island.
Reporter Emma Cross is a poor relation to the notable family whose head, Cornelius Vanderbilt II, has recently died, leaving her $10,000 plus 10,000 shares of New York Central stock, a goodly package in 1899. Vanderbilt's estranged oldest son, Neily, is left a paltry half million plus a million in trust. An urgent request from Neily's wife, Grace, to accompany them to a party at Wakehurst, even though they’re in mourning, lands Emma in a tricky position when she finds yet another dead body in the gardens. The dead man is Judge Clayton Schuyler, whose spoiled daughter, Imogene, has argued publicly with her fiance, Jerome Harrington. Emma, who has an eye for details, hopes to help the police solve the crime. To her dismay, however, her old friend Detective Jesse Whyte has been replaced by Gifford Myers, who has no interest in what Emma might offer. Neither Imogene nor her mother seems disturbed by the judge’s death, but others may have wished him dead since his recent ruling on a contentious case involving unions and coal companies. Jesse’s been shunted off to a clothing store robbery that turns out to be related to the murder. Emma, despite slights from many, uses her entree into society to prevent more murders.
Lifestyles of the wealthy combine with social commentary in a mystery set against the backdrop of Newport’s grand estates.
