Politics Turns Molly’s World Upside Down
When Rhys Bowen resurrected her Molly Murphy series last year with the help of her daughter, Clare Broyles, I was among the many who were happy to once again return to Molly’s 1900’s New York City. All That is Hidden is their second collaboration and the nineteenth book in the series overall, and it will again have fans happily getting lost in the past.
Molly Murphy Sullivan is shocked when her husband tells her that he has quit his job with the New York City police department to run for New York Sheriff on the Tammany Hall ticket. And this means that they will move out of their modest house on Patchin Place and into a much larger house, with servants, on Fifth Avenue. Not only is she angry that he is making these changes without consulting her, but she also worries about what this means. Tammany Hall is notorious for bribery, something Daniel has always been against. He tells her to trust him, but she can’t help but worry.
The move happens a few days later, and Molly finds herself struggling to adjust to her new life as the lady of a house. But everyone else seems to be adjusting just fine; even Molly and Daniel’s ward, Bridie, makes a friend as a result of the move. But then Molly and Daniel are on hand when a murder takes place. What will this mean for their new life? Can Molly figure out what is going on?
As is often the case with one of Rhys Bowen’s books, this one takes its time getting to the plot. We have to check in with the other characters before the story can really begin. I could feel some of the plot threads developing early, but they still could have cut out a little more before things really got going. There is a decent mystery here, however, and I was impressed with how most of the story was paid off in the end. I did feel one aspect was wrapped up a little abruptly, but that was minor.
I have a love hate relationship with Daniel, despite the fact that he’s been around since the beginning of the series. I actually liked him here. Yes, his announcement at the beginning was horrible and in keeping with his typical personality, once we got past that, he was a great partner for Molly. I hope that this personality is back in the next book in the series.
Molly herself is charming, smart, and resourceful as always. I do enjoy spending time with her. The rest of the supporting characters are here and are lots of fun. We meet some interesting new characters in this book as well, most of whom double as the suspects. Since I liked them, it make the stakes in solving the mystery that much more important.
This book takes place in October 1907. I felt like I was with Molly in that time and place on every page. It’s interesting viewing what they see as new and exciting things that we take for granted now.
If you are looking for an engrossing trip back in time, you’ll enjoy All That is Hidden. Fans old and new will be happy that Molly is back.
Enjoy more trips back in time with the rest of the Molly Murphy Mysteries.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
That's great that this series is still going strong and that you are still enjoying it
ReplyDeleteI love Rhys Bowen's books but I haven't read any in this series. Despite the pacing in this one it sounds like a good read. I really need to pick up the first book.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this review with the Historical Fiction Reading Challenge.
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