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marianneiriss's reviews
181 reviews
Murder By Lamplight by Patrice McDonough
adventurous
dark
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Murder By Lamplight is a cosy murder mystery, with a cleverly constructed plot, engaging characters and an immersive setting- perfect for an autumn read.
I loved the humorous dialogue, and the clever incorporation of real historical figures alongside the author’s creation of the fiery and admirable Dr Julia Lewis. Reading this as a young woman in medical school I definitely felt that some of the attitudes she faced are unfortunately still prevalent in today’s medical field!
Whilst being an enjoyable and addictive mystery (I read this in about a day, couldn’t put it down..) this novel also raises salient points about the roles of women, the poor, sex workers, and gender non-conforming people in Victorian society, and their relationship with the police and public health authorities. Although set in the 19th century there are definitely some points made that still apply to modern day.
Overall, a well-written and engaging novel, with some thought-provoking aspects as well as a page-turning mystery. Many thanks to Netgalley and Kensington for sending me this ARC to read and review!
I loved the humorous dialogue, and the clever incorporation of real historical figures alongside the author’s creation of the fiery and admirable Dr Julia Lewis. Reading this as a young woman in medical school I definitely felt that some of the attitudes she faced are unfortunately still prevalent in today’s medical field!
Whilst being an enjoyable and addictive mystery (I read this in about a day, couldn’t put it down..) this novel also raises salient points about the roles of women, the poor, sex workers, and gender non-conforming people in Victorian society, and their relationship with the police and public health authorities. Although set in the 19th century there are definitely some points made that still apply to modern day.
Overall, a well-written and engaging novel, with some thought-provoking aspects as well as a page-turning mystery. Many thanks to Netgalley and Kensington for sending me this ARC to read and review!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Misogyny, Stalking, Pandemic/Epidemic, Murder, Homophobia, Sexism, and Sexual violence
Moderate: Medical content, Child death, Death of parent, Miscarriage, Pedophilia, Sexual assault, Trafficking, Forced institutionalization, Injury/Injury detail, Classism, Cursing, Rape, Antisemitism, Mental illness, Blood, Abandonment, Adult/minor relationship, and Child abuse
Minor: Suicide, Police brutality, Ableism, Terminal illness, Panic attacks/disorders, War, and Alcohol
The Family that Couldn't Sleep by D.T. Max
hopeful
informative
reflective
sad
slow-paced
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Medical content and Terminal illness
Moderate: Animal death, Cannibalism, Child death, Chronic illness, Death of parent, Dementia, Pedophilia, Adult/minor relationship, and Death