Marion Lane and the Midnight Murder by T.A. Willberg

Marion Lane and the Midnight Murder by T.A. Willberg

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https://books2read.com/u/49l57X

What a wonderful book to come out on my birthday! This is an absolutely delightful locked-room mystery full of steampunk elements. Set in the 1950’s, we are introduced to the intelligent and resourceful Marion Lane. Single, to the great disdain of her Grandmother, she is far more interested in pursuing her career as an Inquirer for the secret organization known as Miss Brickett’s Investigations & Inquiries than she is in pursuing a husband. When her Grandmother sells the family home without consulting her, Marion has no choice but to live full time in the underground facility where she works. When an investigation into a colleague’s murder leads to the arrest of someone close to Marion, she and her best friend Bill, must work to clear his name. As their investigation progresses, Marion and Bill discover there is more to Miss Brickett’s than even they were led to believe. 

I am a huge fan of steampunk and this is my first historical set in London after the second world war. Miss Brickett’s Investigations & Inquiries is an interesting setting and truly a character itself. The Agency has a unique and seemingly magical system of collecting tips and clues into all types of criminal behavior and is incredibly effective at dropping those criminals, literally, on the steps of the police. There are so many secrets inside the agency, both amongst the employees and found within the building itself. It had a very Warehouse 13 feel to it, just set in the 1950s. Secret rooms, hidden compartments, objects are that are definitely more than they seem-it’s all here. 

Marion is an excellent character who has to deal with family expectations, a difficult and stressful work environment, and trying to find a place for herself when society still believes that women are at their best when they are at home. I really enjoyed following her investigation into helping her colleagues and the way that she was able to stay true to her own goals and feelings. 

The story itself moves quickly and without sacrificing any worldbuilding. I really hope this is the beginning of a series because there is a lot to explore. While there is a murder, and some fight scenes, none of it is excessively violent.  

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I truly hope there is more to come! 

If you’d like to grab a copy for yourself, you can purchase it from your favorite retailer here:

https://books2read.com/u/49l57X

Thank you to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read and review this title. All opinions and mistakes are my own.

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