Set in bustling and raucous Chicago in the nineteenth century, this book is about more than "merely" murder and greasing palms. The author also includes historical details such as the coverture law, ambrotypes, role of the night soil workers and the massive Cosby's Opera House.

In an era when the majority of women are homemakers, detective Quinn takes people off guard and I think she enjoys their discomfiture! Her colleague Garnick recognizes the need for a woman's presence and skill set so they are complementary. When murder rears its ugly head, they investigate and no area in Chicago is off limits, including unsavoury gambling houses and brothels. But when it appears someone wants Quinn out of the way, the investigation intensifies. Deceit, danger and secrets are rife.

My favourite aspect of this book is the history injected into it. I'm not particularly fond of one of the relationships as it does not feel convincing. But the writing is lovely and the details got and kept my attention.

My sincere thank you to D.X. Varos, Ltd. and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this arresting book.

I absolutely loved this book. It's totally not a time period I would normally reach for (post American Civil War set in Chicago) but I am sooooo glad I did. The characters are excellent (favorites were Quinn and Lou, the brothel madam!) the pacing superb and the mystery was actually one that I didn't solve until the threads beautifully came together in the narrative (extremely unusual for me and mysteries! Jeanne Matthews nailed it!). I didn't want to put it down and blew threw it in a day and a half of bliss.

Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of Devil by the Tail and to Jeanne Matthews for putting together such a cracking read. My opinions are my own and never influenced by anybody. Ever.

The year is 1867, meet Garnick & Paschal Private Detectives – Garnick, ex-Confederated soldier, and Mrs. Paschal, a graduate of the Pinkerton Detective Agency, who really is Quinn Sinclair. Still in the early stages of their detecting, two cases really turn out to be one case? A great start to what I hope with many more adventures. I loved the way Jeanne Matthews describes the characters, police, politicians, prostitutes, … Fast paced read, laugh out loud at the expressions used (I so love the word ‘bamboozled’)
Thank you to NetGalley and D.X. Varos for an early copy.

I really enjoyed this, it was well written and twisty mystery novel that will keep you guessing. The main characters are both well developed and interesting. I like the historic detail interspersed throughout the novel. I hope to see another Sinclair and Garnick adventure soon.

DNF at chapter 10.

I like historical romance/mystery novels, so I thought I'd give this one a try. It's not my type. There's not enough atmosphere. Characters seem thrown about with little introduction or encouragement for reader interest. Despite an accidental kiss early on, there's not much sexual tension between Quinn and Garnick. Could just be a slow start, but I feel that the narrative voice lacks compelling life let alone personality. Just not one for me.

(Rating does not reflect an official opinion)

I thought this was a fun mystery and really enjoyed it! It was well written and there wasn't a lot of lull throughout the storyline.

A very well written and engrossing mystery novel. The main characters are both well developed and interesting. Lots of historic detail are interspersed throughout the novel. The mystery itself is full of twists and turns and will keep you guessing until the very end. All in all a very satisfying whodunit, highly recommend!!!

Jeanne Matthews new book, Devil by the Tail, is excellent. Quinn Sinclair and Garnick are partners in a private detective agency in post-Civil War Chicago. The corruption at all levels of government and law enforcement is on full display in this mystery. Quinn is a widow trying to get her share of her late husband's estate from her well to do in-laws. The lawyer she has hired has a deal - help him with a case and he will not charge her for anymore meetings with her impossible MIL. Quinn knows this isn't a good deal but agrees - the defendant is charged with arson and killing her ex lovers wife and father in law. And the corruption is every where and who can Sinclair and Garnick really believe? Adding to the moment is their growing feelings for each other. A great read and the story is so well done! I hope to see another Sinclair and Garnick adventure. Thank you to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of #DevilbytheTail. .