Still Life With Murder (Nell Sweeney Mysteries, #1)

Nominated for the prestigious Mary Higgins Clark Award, Still Life With Murder is Book #1 of P.B. Ryan’s acclaimed historical mystery series featuring Boston governess Nell Sweeney and opium-smoking former battle surgeon Will Hewitt. Long thought to have died during the Civil War, Will is arrested for murder, and it's up to Nell to prove his innocence. Originally published by Berkley Prime Crime.

Nell Sweeney is eternally grateful that Dr Greaves saved her from a life of poverty and degradation, but her life takes another upturn when wealthy Boston Brahmin Viola Hewitt employs her as governess to little Grace, the daughter of a chambermaid who has been adopted by Viola. The Hewitts had four sons, but two of them were killed fighting in the recent War Between the States—or so they think. When they are told that their eldest son William is still alive and close by, it might be a time for rejoicing but for the fact that he is in prison, and liable to hang for murdering a man in front of witnesses. Stern August Hewitt has never liked William and is determined to see him executed, but Viola pleads with Nell to find out what really happened, and save him. This is the first book in the acclaimed Gilded Age Mysteries series, and has many things to recommend it... a tidy package of well-drawn characters, lively story and historical verisimilitude. MyShelf.com

“P.B. Ryan makes a stunning debut with Still Life With Murder...I can’t wait for the next installment.” Bestselling author Victoria Thompson

“A beautiful combination of entertaining characters, minute historical research, and a powerful evocation of time and place. I’m very glad there will be more to come.” New York Times bestselling author Barbara Hambly

“If you like fast moving, accurately drawn, historical mysteries, you won’t go wrong by trying Still Life With Murder.” Reviewing the Evidence

“Still Life With Murder is sheer perfection...gripping...powerful...unforgettable...You’ll know you’ve read one hell of a story after you turn the last page!” Reader to Reader Reviews

“This debut mystery is a winner, with a feisty heroine, a colorful historical backdrop and a strong mystery rife with complexities. An ideal blend of history and mystery.” Romantic Times BookReviews