I really enjoyed reading this historical mystery. The story is told as flashback by Jane. Her story begins when she starts a new job as a maid to the Benchley daughters. They are a newly wealthy family and Jane helps them navigate society. When a murder happens at a party she sets out to solve it. I really enjoyed the characters and the historical setting. The mystery was really good with lots of suspects and wonderful twists and turns. I look for word to reading more in this series. Enjoy

Fredericks’ adult debut is a deliciously intriguing peek at 1910 New York – its upper crust scandals, the cry for social justice and the intersection of the two. Told with the perspective of hindsight, the honest and witty narration comes courtesy of crisply-drawn ladies’ maid Jane Prescott. Her ability to be present but not fully noticed lends itself to revelations that readers might not be privy to otherwise, and her looking-back reflections tease with just the right blend of frankness and secrecy. The mix of vivid characters represents a swath of cultural and economic diversity, and the atmospheric detail depicting New York and its environs is almost another player in the drama. A well-plotted mystery with a plucky amateur sleuth – and an ending that could promise more cases for Jane to solve in the future!

first appeared on RT Book Reviews, April 2018

A complex, suspenseful plot with tension so thick that it felt palpable. Rich with historical details relevant to the time period. Wonderful characters with depth and substance. I was immediately drawn in and held captive from beginning to end.

A Death of No Importance by Mariah Fredericks takes readers back in time to New York City in May of 1910. Jane Prescott is a lady’s maid for the Benchley’s daughters, Louise and Charlotte. Charlotte is the more vivacious and fashionable of the girls. She sets out to capture Robert “Norrie” Newsome despite the rumors that he is practically engaged to Beatrice Tyler. In September, Charlotte tells her mother that Norrie has proposed, and it is decided to announce the event on Christmas Eve at the Newsome Annual Christmas Eve Ball. When it is near time for the announcement, Jane goes looking for Charlotte and finds Norrie dead on the library floor. Inspector Thomas J. Blackburn is assigned the case and Charlotte finds herself a suspect. Jane with the aid of reporter, Michael Behan delves into Norrie’s life. There is a myriad of suspects who all had good motive to eliminate the victim. Join Jane Prescott as she sets out to catch a killer in A Death of No Importance.

A Death of No Importance had a good beginning that drew me into the story. After a while, though, the pace slowed down and the content was less captivating. The book became political with the author being on the side of the poor (the rich industrialist versus the working-class poor). We get detailed descriptions of the indulgences of the upper classes. The author tried to capture the time-period by including various historical happenings including the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire (it was a devastating fire that killed 146 people—mostly immigrant women), Hull House, and the bombing at the LA Times Building They were not integrated into the story properly (felt like add-ins) and had nothing to do with the mystery. The murder mystery appears complex, but the solution was apparent. The book needed action and active investigating that would help move the book forward. The investigating that Jane can do is limited due to her gender and ability to leave her work (she does manage it at times though). The story is told from an older Jane Prescott (reliving her younger days). Jane is an observant main character whose eye for detail aids in her solving the case. A Death of No Importance had a disappointing ending (a big letdown). A Death of No Importance was not the right fit for me.

In 1910, Jane Prescott took a job as ladies' maid for Charlotte Benchley, a nouveau riche young woman who was very anxious to become engaged to the playboy Norrie Newsome. Norrie wound up being murdered and the maid investigated the murder. Except for a touch of pedophilia, this could have been a Nancy Drew book. It definitely had a middle grade feel about it.

The hardest reviews for me to write are for books that don't leave any impression on me, positive or negative, and unfortunately that was the case with this book. For an historical mystery, the book was seriously lacking in any period feel. At the end of the book the author does throw in details of the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire and the disgusting killing of an elephant (which I assume was true), but neither of these events had anything to do with the mystery. If she was aiming for adding some social commentary to the book, she missed the mark. The references just felt gratuitous. I did finish the book, mostly because it was short and I could listen to the audio book while I did chores, but I doubt that I would read this author again.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.

I really enjoyed this one... I like above-stairs/below-stairs stories, and have long been a firm believer in the old adage that "servants see everything" (or, more aptly put, "those who go largely ignored in society see more than they are given credit for"). There were just enough twists to keep things interesting, particularly when coupled with the behind-the-scenes social dynamics and interactions of early twentieth century New York. Jane is a great protagonist; she's clever and underappreciated and just this side of naive in a way that made her a delightful narrator. The high society (established and nouveau) surrounding her was fun to witness through her eyes, and I liked the dynamic with Michael. It was playful and fun without overt and obvious romance; even if they wind up there eventually (which seems likely), I liked that this initial foray didn't fall into tropes... The one thing I thought felt a little forced was the anarchist angle - I get it, it played a huge part in the overall mystery, but the convenience of her being friends with Anna before it all began felt a little too convenient. It didn't detract from my enjoyment, but it didn't add anything either...

All in all this was a pleasant historical mystery with an entertaining and clever heroine, and I enjoyed it for what it was. I caught the throwaway reference to "other mysteries" in her life which I took to indicate that more books are coming; I say hooray to that, and am looking forward to seeing what befalls her next!

Thanks St. Martin's Press and netgalley for this ARC.

A new star of historical mysteries is born with this one. It has everything and more that I love in a good book. Unlikely heroine, love gone wrong, murder, a hidden sordid past- all with a new twist that makes this novel stand on its own.

I received this from netgalley.com in exchange for a review.

"New York City, 1910. Invisible until she’s needed, Jane Prescott has perfected the art of serving as a ladies’ maid to the city’s upper echelons." Jane investigates the murder of playboy Norrie Newburg with the help of a handsome newspaper reporter.

This book was all over the place, chunky and blocky reading. There were several mentions of historical happenings in New York at that time: Shirtwaist Fire, women's vote, mining disasters, an abused circus elephant, etc. But it felt like it was thrown into the story rather than an actual part that moved the story forward.

3.25☆

Jane and Michael both want to discover who murdered the Newsome heir. He wants to write the story, she wants to protect the family she serves and the anarchist who was beaten into confessing. Told in a different style. Looking forward to more in this series.
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I read the description of this books months ago and new I wanted to read it as soon as it came out. I was so excited to get an advanced copy from NetGalley. I've been looking for a good historic mystery series since Lauren Willig's Pink Carnation series came to an end. While it appears A Death of No Importance will be a stand alone, I'm still very glad I gave it a chance.

Our Heroine, ladies maid Jane, is quiet, mature and thoughtful. While she is critical of the upper classes whom she serves, she takes pride in her work and expertise. When her charge's fiancee is murdered, Jane is on the case, along with Intrepid Reporter Michael. I have low opinions of Intrepid Reporters, but Michael was fairly unobtrusive.

I enjoyed the period details. The early 1910's were an interesting period. It was the end of the Gilded Age (thanks income tax!) as well as the labor movement. The book has characters from all walks of life, old money, new money, immigrants and anarchists. The conclusion of the murder was complicated, and Jane is very stoic about the nuances.

Smooth is an unusual adjective for a mystery, but it's what I keep coming back to. The narrator's voice rang true to character throughout. The occasional rough-edges, where I felt like information or descriptions were repeated, only served to make the narrator real. Most of us repeat ourselves when telling long complex stories.

The mystery itself wasn't overly difficult to figure out, in spite of plenteous red herrings (which were occasionally rather obvious) but it hardly mattered - and even after I figured out the killer, there was still an unexpected twist. The story was a delight to read. I am already looking forward to Fredericks' next historical mystery.

Review based on a Netgalley ARC.

Jane Prescott, a competent, practical lady's maid, has a clear-eyed view of the world around her. When the society playboy supposedly engaged to her mistress is murdered and her friend may come under suspicion, Jane must follow the clues to the real murderer.

What I liked about this novel was the viewpoint. From how she grew up and her work, Jane had a foot in both worlds and was able to see when something wasn't right. She was able to follow the trail where it led and no one think ill of it.

I did find her "friendship" with someone with anarchist ties a bit of a stretch. From her friend's behavior, I wondered how they had become friends and why did Jane still consider her a friend. Also, although I did enjoy the team up with a reporter, I did find it unlikely.

Overall, the plot was well paced and the historical detail was excellent. I would recommend ti to readers who are looking for a historical mystery.

Interesting and engaging mystery with well-drawn characters and a great setting. This should appeal to readers who liked watching Downton Abbey and are interested in exploring the similar time period in America. I liked the way the author incorporates the changes in society that were taking place at the time--with our character working as a servant to a "new money" family that has recently risen to the upper class, while also having friends working in the factories of New York, we get to see both sides of this changing world. This makes for some great tension, and having a murder right in the middle just highlights the chasm between the classes. I also particularly enjoyed the side trip our character makes to the Philadelphia area, since that is where I live. :) All in all, I look forward to offering this to our patrons at our library.

"A Death of No Importance" is a mystery set in 1910 in New York City. I loved that the lady's maid was able to solve the mystery because of her skill set. Jane knew a wine stain from a blood stain, how different stain patterns might happen (jostled elbow, etc.), and noticed things that were out of place, all because it's her job to clean these things up. She was wise in how she gathered clues and intelligent in her ability to put the clues together. Since so many people had motive and opportunity, it wasn't an easy task to narrow things down. While one character seemed the most likely murderer to me, I wasn't certain about whodunit until the very end.

Vivid historical and setting details were woven into the mystery, and the writing immersed me in the story. It felt like this really could have happened and that these people once lived. The characters acted realistically and were interesting and varied. I cared about what happened to the various characters, even the less likable ones. I understood why they acted as they did.

There were no sex scenes, though a past rape was described in vague terms by one character. There was a minor amount of bad language. Overall, I'd highly recommend this historical mystery.

A gripping history mystery that will transport you to 1910 New York City!
A Death of No Importance by Mariah Fredericks takes us to the world of pep pills and hobble skirts, where society rules and things are left unsaid. With a murder, the historical setting, and the upper crust, you’ve got one of my favorite types of books to read, so I was really looking forward to this title. And it didn’t disappoint!
Our main character is Jane Prescott, a ladies maid who starts poking around and trying to solve the crime when the fiancé of the lady she works for is murdered. Jane is a capable, intelligent woman, who is an intriguing heroine. Along the way she meets Michael Behan, a reporter, who also is interested in the murder. I couldn’t ever decide if Michael was slimy or suave, but I liked the fact that I couldn’t figure him out throughout the novel.
I enjoyed all of the twists, turns, and sideplots, and appreciated all of the historical detail in the book. I really thought this book excelled at all of the different characters. They were unique enough to keep straight, but not so unique where they felt like caricatures, and I enjoyed the family that Jane works for. I am hopeful that there will be more books starring Jane in the future! I’d definitely love to read more, and I thought the ending of A Death of No Importance was fabulous and fitting. I love a mystery that has a great ending, and this is one that I’ll remember for some time! Motive, motive, motive! My favorite part of a murder mystery is a motive that makes sense and draws the reader in. I really enjoyed this book and truly can’t wait to read more. I definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy historical mysteries, specifically those readers who enjoy reading Anne Perry.
Bottom Line: An excellent historical mystery with a fabulous ending.

4.5 stars

I really enjoyed A Death of No Importance. Set in New York City in the early part of the 1900’s, the book follows Jane Prescott, a lady’s maid to a wealthy family trying to ingratiate themselves into New York City high society. Her mistress, Charlotte Benchley, claims she is engaged to a wealthy and sought after bachelor who is subsequently murdered on the night that Charlotte believes their engagement will be announced. Jane works with an enterprising reporter, Michael Behan, to solve the murder.

My favorite part of the book was Mariah Fredericks’ attention to detail with respect to both the characters and the setting. New York City comes alive as do the characters; Fredericks clearly did her research, and her efforts pay off significantly. My one small caveat is that the cover is terrible. Had I not had someone recommend this book to me, I would never have picked it up.

I highly recommend this entertaining read and hope there will be another book starring Jane Prescott.

New York City, 1910 and Jane Prescott is a ladies’ maid to the newly rich Benchley daughters. Even worse for the Benchleys, their younger daughter Charlotte becomes engaged to useless playboy Norrie, the son of the eminent and rich Newsome family. Jane is at the house party to announce the engagement when she discovers a body. With help she investigates the murder.
An engaging well-written mystery. With some rounded characters which I hope will appear again.

I'm glad I started reading A Death of No Importance on a weekend because that gave me the ability to read it in one sitting. Historical mysteries are my favorites and this didn't disappoint. Set in 1910 New York, Jane Prescott is a ladies maid for a newly rich family trying to break into high society. Jane knows how to move through the ins and outs and is hired to assist them gain entry. The family consists of two daughters, both searching for a good catch of a rich husband and Charlotte has maneuvered her way to a future with a not so nice playboy named Norrie Newsome. All goes wrong when, at a lavish Christmas party, Norrie is found dead in the library. Charlotte is Jane's mistress and, as such, Jane sees and hears things that will lead her to the murderer. As a servant, Jane and those of her social station are invisible.
The mystery shows that many had good reason to want Norrie dead. He and his social circle never have to pay the price for their actions and the massive gap between the haves and the have nots keeps getting wider. This period of New York history includes the Shirt Waist factory fire which brings into sharp focus how hard life is for the have nots.
I hope this is the beginning of a long running series as Jane is a very well crafted character and the mystery worked well with lots of twists and turns.

I really enjoyed this historical mystery set in early 1900s New York, and I hope it's the beginning of a series, because I'd love to read more like this. I love historical mysteries, which are usually about the upper classes. While it's fun to get lost in the glitz and glamor of another era, I do wonder about the lives of people who are rarely depicted in those books, or who are only there to prop up the plot, like the servants. So I was excited to read a mystery starring ladies' maid Jane Prescott. Jane is sensible and observant, and going about solving a mystery is very different for her than for upper class heroines, as her access to society is so different. She does have some connections to anarchists, who are suspected of the murder at the center of this book, but she suspects a different motive. Besides a satisfying mystery, this book sheds light on a variety of social issues and injustices of the day. Recommended for all lovers of historical mysteries!

A Death of No Importance by Mariah Fredericks is a historical fiction murder mystery set in New York City in 1910 involving one of high society's most affluent and notable families, the Benchleys.

This intriguing story is told by Jane Prescott, a ladies’ maid to the Benchley family, who understands the rules of high society, and is very discreet. When Charlotte, the youngest Benchley daughter, becomes engaged to the notorious and roguish playboy Norrie, son of the Newsome empire, all hell breaks lose as he's already betrothed to another. But when Norrie is found murdered at a Christmas Eve party and Jane discovers the body, she is put to the test. She must now help solve the crime and prove that Charlotte is innocent. Jane has the advantage over all others -- invisible in the background and witness to everyone's grudges, secrets, and scandals. Does the Shickshinny Mining disaster from 10 years prior have anything to do with his murder or are there other elements at play?

Oh my goodness, what a delightful book! It is well-written, has interesting well-rounded characters, has a compelling plot; I could go on and on! Frederick's mystery debut novel for adults is a hit! She is definitely on my radar for future reads. I rate this novel 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for providing a copy of this novel in exchange for a fair review. https://moesbookblog.wordpress.com/

Reviewed: April 8, 2018. Novel Publish Date: April 10, 2018.