Helpful Score: 5
A few weeks ago, I heard Stefanie Pintoff speak at a store signing with Louise Penny (whom I'd actually gone to see). I enjoyed her talk so much that I bought this, her first book, and I certainly can't say I'm sorry. While it's not gripping, In the Shadow of Gotham is a good read throughout, particularly for its characters. While I saw the ending coming from a ways down the road, that only happened after a huge plot twist, and it didn't hinder my enjoyment of the story. I will say that the sequel, A Curtain Falls, is an even better book, but this story is well worth your time.
Becky T. (beanie5) -
Helpful Score: 3
A well written historical mystery set in and around New York City in 1905. Simon Ziele is a former New York City police detective who has moved to the Hudson River Valley after the death of his lady love. The mystery is quite well put forth and not too simply. Enjoyed the book very much.
Helpful Score: 2
Very good book. Difficult to figure out, interesting discussion of criminaology. Background history of 1905 NYC was an interesting side diversion. I like the main character Simon a lot. Very deep detective abilities a few flaws for a first book but not too bad. Didn't follow up with what happened with victions aunt and cousin but they were minor characters. I put book 2 on my WL.
R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed In the Shadow of Gotham (Simon Ziele, Bk 1) on + 1451 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
It is 1905 in New York City and Simon Ziele has left the big apple to find peace and quiet in a smaller police district. With the death of his fiance, Hannah, in a ferry disaster, he needs new challenges, new people and a new place in which to recover from his grief. When his supervisor becomes ill, he is drawn into the murder of a beautiful, intelligent woman. Michael Fromley whose violent behavior is being studied by a scientist is believed to have committed the crime. However, since evidence is lacking, Simon finds himself broadening his list of suspects. This is a fine mystery with fascinating and alive characters. Well deserving of the acclaim, it's a good, good read.
Kristin K. (escapeartistk) -
I might have rated this even higher were I more of a mystery fan. As it is, however, I enjoyed this well-paced quick read, and I am likely to read another of her Detective Ziele stories in the future.
Ron K. (WhidbeyIslander) -
Interesting setting but way too long and after an exceedingly boring chapter about the criminal mind of a possible suspect I gave up and didn't bother reading more.
I love historical fiction and this filled the bill. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next two.
