$5.59

First Published: Berkley Prime Crime, 2005

Book #3 of P.B. Ryan’s critically praised Nell Sweeney historical mystery series. Irish-born Boston governess Nell Sweeney and Dr. Will Hewitt investigate the deaths of a notorious actress and her Irish maid.

“At the discovery of the body of beautiful actress Virginia Kimball, with her maid lying dead beside her, Boston can talk of nothing else. The police, corrupt and paid to look the other way, determine Virginia found her maid stealing from her and they traded fatal shots. No mention is made of the mysterious Red Book, which Virginia used to supplement her income with a little blackmail on the side. Sick at the slander that says his niece murdered Virginia Kimball, Brady, a driver for the wealthy Hewitts, asks Nell Sweeney to investigate her death. Nell, governess to the Hewitt’s adopted child, has had success solving murders in the past. With the encouragement of her employer, Nell tries to clear Brady’s niece, with the help of the Hewitt’s black sheep son, Will.Nell pokes into the indiscretions of Boston high-ranking men, while they are determined to block her investigations. Running into the harsh prejudice against the Irish makes Nell more resolved to uncover the killer. Death on Beacon Hill continues Ms. Ryan’s excellent Nell Sweeney series. The rich characterization and her strong evocation of place, coupled with a well-plotted tale, make for a rich story. Add a clever conclusion and Ms. Ryan delivers a fascinating read.” Fresh Fiction

“I decided to start the year off with my favorite mystery series. The mystery itself—what really happened that afternoon at Mrs. Kimball’s and who killed her and her maid—kept me guessing….Highly recommend the series.” Babbling Book Reviews

“[Nell is] intelligent and has a strong sense of justice….She only takes action after careful consideration, never rushing to throw herself in harm’s way….They mystery consists of several layers, and is constructed quite well….It’s clear from the beginning that things are not as they seem; this serves to keep the reader interested in ferreting out the clues alongside Nell. I’m looking forward to another installment.” The Romance Reader’s Connection

“Cleverly plotted addition to this excellent series.” Fresh Fiction