Lawrence H. Levy, BROOKLYN ON FIRE

Set in late nineteenth century New York and featuring an unconventional woman, Mary Handley, as a private detective, this is the second installment in a series that blends historical events and characters with fiction. The result is an exciting mystery that is well rooted in its place and time.

Although some may feel the plot is a bit overextended, it is action-packed, and the characters, especially Mary, are convincingly developed.  For those fans of historical mysteries and strong female protagonists, this is a series to follow.