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Detective Murdoch #2
Under the Dragon's Tail
Women rich and poor come to her, desperate and in dire need of help – and discretion. Dolly Merishaw is a midwife and an abortionist in Victorian Toronto, but although she keeps quiet about her clients’ condition, her contempt for them and her greed leaves every one of them resentful and angry. So it comes as no surprise to Detective William Murdoch when this malicious woman is murdered. What is a shock, though, is that a week later a young boy is found dead in Dolly’s squalid kitchen. Now, Murdoch isn’t sure if he’s hunting one murderer – or two.
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1998
92 people are currently reading
1066 people want to read
About the author
Maureen Jennings
55 books383 followersMaureen Jennings, now a Canadian Citizen, was born on Eastfield Road in Birmingham, England and spent her formative years there until she emigrated to Canada at the age of seventeen with her mother.
This has meant that she still feels a deep connection with her homeland. It has also no doubt been a strong influence in her love for, and her writing about, the Victorian period. She attended the University of Windsor where she attained a BA in philosophy and psychology.
A couple of years trying to decide what she really wanted to do with her life resulted in her returning to university, the University of Toronto, this time where she earned an MA in English literature.For the next eight years, she taught English at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute at a time when the English department seemed to be chock full of writers. Eric Wright, went on to write the highly successful Charlie Salter mystery series, Graeme Gibson, Peter Such, and others were writing both novels and poetry. An exciting time in so many ways but after eight years, another change of direction and in 1972, Maureen left Ryerson to become a psychotherapist, which was a long time interest. She has continued in private practice since then, although nowadays she mostly conducts creative expression groups and writes. Always passionate about dogs, she is happy to own a border collie named Jeremy-Brett and a mixed breed named Varley.
Series:
* Detective Murdoch
* Christine Morris
* Detective Inspector Tom Tyler
This has meant that she still feels a deep connection with her homeland. It has also no doubt been a strong influence in her love for, and her writing about, the Victorian period. She attended the University of Windsor where she attained a BA in philosophy and psychology.
A couple of years trying to decide what she really wanted to do with her life resulted in her returning to university, the University of Toronto, this time where she earned an MA in English literature.For the next eight years, she taught English at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute at a time when the English department seemed to be chock full of writers. Eric Wright, went on to write the highly successful Charlie Salter mystery series, Graeme Gibson, Peter Such, and others were writing both novels and poetry. An exciting time in so many ways but after eight years, another change of direction and in 1972, Maureen left Ryerson to become a psychotherapist, which was a long time interest. She has continued in private practice since then, although nowadays she mostly conducts creative expression groups and writes. Always passionate about dogs, she is happy to own a border collie named Jeremy-Brett and a mixed breed named Varley.
Series:
* Detective Murdoch
* Christine Morris
* Detective Inspector Tom Tyler
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
May 8, 2023
This is my oldest review that I need to catch up on, and I think one of the reasons why haven't written it yet is because I've spent time discussing this book in group discussion with Carolyn and Shirin here in Goodreads so in a way I was still processing the story.
There is a lot I liked about the second installment of this series, in particular the character of Detective William Murdoch - even when I had mixed feelings about the book that he exists within, I always loved him, and he is the reason I want to continue the series, to find out more about him and his life, his past and his future.
What I struggled with really was that I didn't like any of the other characters. Although I don't think every character needs to be good, it helps if you at least want to follow along with them. But unlike with William, I couldn't bring myself to care about the varied cast here. While I ripped through the first third, thinking the book would probably be a five-star read, feeling impressed by Maureen Jenning's writing, it tapered off at some point and became more of a chore. I appreciate her willingness to be frank about poverty and the many and varied ways that can affect people, but I wish she'd spent a little more time to allow the reader to form an emotional connection with these people, rather than simply observing their plight and the terrible things that have befallen them.
There are also a few instances where I find I question character choices or scenarios. They don't feel quite believable. Sometimes this is more obvious, such as the convoluted plot surrounding Mrs. Pedlow. Other aspects were smaller, harder to define beyond noting points that would 'take me out' of the story.
It's a credit to Maureen Jennings' writing that while I observed these things, I still considered the book good, well written and intriguing enough that the entire series appeals to me. I think her greatest strengths are in her vivid descriptions of Toronto in 1895, and her excellent lead character.
There is a lot I liked about the second installment of this series, in particular the character of Detective William Murdoch - even when I had mixed feelings about the book that he exists within, I always loved him, and he is the reason I want to continue the series, to find out more about him and his life, his past and his future.
What I struggled with really was that I didn't like any of the other characters. Although I don't think every character needs to be good, it helps if you at least want to follow along with them. But unlike with William, I couldn't bring myself to care about the varied cast here. While I ripped through the first third, thinking the book would probably be a five-star read, feeling impressed by Maureen Jenning's writing, it tapered off at some point and became more of a chore. I appreciate her willingness to be frank about poverty and the many and varied ways that can affect people, but I wish she'd spent a little more time to allow the reader to form an emotional connection with these people, rather than simply observing their plight and the terrible things that have befallen them.
There are also a few instances where I find I question character choices or scenarios. They don't feel quite believable. Sometimes this is more obvious, such as the convoluted plot surrounding Mrs. Pedlow. Other aspects were smaller, harder to define beyond noting points that would 'take me out' of the story.
It's a credit to Maureen Jennings' writing that while I observed these things, I still considered the book good, well written and intriguing enough that the entire series appeals to me. I think her greatest strengths are in her vivid descriptions of Toronto in 1895, and her excellent lead character.
January 26, 2022
Kerri, Shirin, & I shared Maureen Jennings’ prequel and début this summer a month apart from New Zealand, Iran, and Manitoba! In November, I see I topped my author limit of thrice a year. No matter: it is 2022 upon wording this review of “Under The Dragon’s Tale”. It hails from 1998, featuring 1895. I mind historical fiction less at the stage of cars, telephones, and in Canada. I was concerned that Maureen not make Toronto sound like old England to outsiders and that faux-pas has lessened in this novel.
These two and the prequel novella all received four stars, even though I believe we three friends have liked each story successively better. We are open to any engaging story. We disliked a lot about this mystery. Besides Christmas coming along, our discussion was short during the book and flagged afterwards. Shirin’s review is coming and I have just enjoyed Kerri’s. She deemed some complaints easier to pinpoint than others.
I attribute my distaste to three things: we liked no characters save William Murdoch and his male landlord, every scene was dirty and glum except William’s personal life, and there was a superfluity of these gross characters for whom we felt nothing. Our emotions lifted for one woman and child whom we will not spoil. Kerri felt that too many sidelines bogged down the mystery. I agree. Showing poverty and religious intolerance is one matter. The input of those issues is poorly measured if they stamp out the pleasure of reading the novel.
We cannot deny that two mean characters’ demises would made the future better for all the others. William’s wholesomeness, passion for bicycling, and dancing furnished my shining moments! I roared laughing when he saucily leaped upon a dancehall stage! Cheers to the next story being superb, girls!
These two and the prequel novella all received four stars, even though I believe we three friends have liked each story successively better. We are open to any engaging story. We disliked a lot about this mystery. Besides Christmas coming along, our discussion was short during the book and flagged afterwards. Shirin’s review is coming and I have just enjoyed Kerri’s. She deemed some complaints easier to pinpoint than others.
I attribute my distaste to three things: we liked no characters save William Murdoch and his male landlord, every scene was dirty and glum except William’s personal life, and there was a superfluity of these gross characters for whom we felt nothing. Our emotions lifted for one woman and child whom we will not spoil. Kerri felt that too many sidelines bogged down the mystery. I agree. Showing poverty and religious intolerance is one matter. The input of those issues is poorly measured if they stamp out the pleasure of reading the novel.
We cannot deny that two mean characters’ demises would made the future better for all the others. William’s wholesomeness, passion for bicycling, and dancing furnished my shining moments! I roared laughing when he saucily leaped upon a dancehall stage! Cheers to the next story being superb, girls!
September 8, 2020
Non sapevo nemmeno di avere un libro di Murdoch. La serie Tv è bellissima ovviamente.
Dovevo aspettarmelo dai. È tutto diverso.
PUÒ CONTENERE SPOILER SULLA DIFFERENZA TRA LA SERIE TV E IL LIBRO! ATTENZIONE! (Gli spoiler normali li nascondo ma su come sono i personaggi e il loro carattere non sempre).
Murdoch è diverso. Ha i baffi e fuma la pipa. Crabtree è diverso. È addirittura uno stangone. Il coroner ha bisogno di una giuria di dodici persone mentre spiega lo stato del cadavere sulla scena. Questo non mi era mai capitato. Siamo in Canada come sapete. A Toronto. Quanto a Julia
Il rapporto Wlliam/Julia è comunque diverso dalla serie
Oggi 6 settembre 2020 ho ribeccato la serie tv su Giallo. Non sapevo che la stessero rifaccendo. Meglio così visto che avevo un dubbio se l'ispettore aveva la stesso nome. Thomas Brackenreid. Il cognome almeno. Murdoch non lo chiama mai per nome. Anche perchè nel libro a detta di Murdoch è una sorta di stronzo che ce l'ha sempre con lui. Nella serie tv invece sarà anche vecchio stampo ma non mi è mai parso uno stronzo. Quanto all'aspetto penso che i baffi siano diversi da quelli dell'attore. Al capitolo 15, , (Murdoch) dice che si succhia i baffi mentre parla quindi devono essere più lunghi.
Una cosa che mi sconvolge sul libro è che Murdoch tocchi le cose con le mani. Le impronte digitali a fine '800 e inizio '900 sono già usate come prove. Nella serie tv Murdoch è veramente puntiglioso, giustamente, e se non ricordo male una volta si arrabbia con un poliziotto che raccoglie un indizio a mani nude. In più nella serie tv si vede proprio Crabtree che controlla le impronte digitali anche se ancora su cartellini e a occhio nudo (o lente di ingrandimento ma non sono sicura di quella). Secondo Wikipedia il primo suggerimento sulle impronte fu nel 1880 e il primo uso effettivo nel 1892. Questo libro è ambientato nel 1895 ...
○ Se dovessi trovarlo leggerei un altro libro con Murdoch? Si, sicuramente. Si legge bene.
○ Preferisco la serie tv o i libri? Sono per la serie tv. Mi piacciono le interazioni con i personaggi che poi diventeranno famosi o il fatto che pensi e inventi cose che poi ufficialmente useremo nel futuro. Nel libro non c'è niente di simile. E i personaggi mi piacciono di più.
Dovevo aspettarmelo dai. È tutto diverso.
PUÒ CONTENERE SPOILER SULLA DIFFERENZA TRA LA SERIE TV E IL LIBRO! ATTENZIONE! (Gli spoiler normali li nascondo ma su come sono i personaggi e il loro carattere non sempre).
Murdoch è diverso. Ha i baffi e fuma la pipa. Crabtree è diverso. È addirittura uno stangone. Il coroner ha bisogno di una giuria di dodici persone mentre spiega lo stato del cadavere sulla scena. Questo non mi era mai capitato. Siamo in Canada come sapete. A Toronto. Quanto a Julia
Il rapporto Wlliam/Julia è comunque diverso dalla serie
Oggi 6 settembre 2020 ho ribeccato la serie tv su Giallo. Non sapevo che la stessero rifaccendo. Meglio così visto che avevo un dubbio se l'ispettore aveva la stesso nome. Thomas Brackenreid. Il cognome almeno. Murdoch non lo chiama mai per nome. Anche perchè nel libro a detta di Murdoch è una sorta di stronzo che ce l'ha sempre con lui. Nella serie tv invece sarà anche vecchio stampo ma non mi è mai parso uno stronzo. Quanto all'aspetto penso che i baffi siano diversi da quelli dell'attore. Al capitolo 15, , (Murdoch) dice che si succhia i baffi mentre parla quindi devono essere più lunghi.
Una cosa che mi sconvolge sul libro è che Murdoch tocchi le cose con le mani. Le impronte digitali a fine '800 e inizio '900 sono già usate come prove. Nella serie tv Murdoch è veramente puntiglioso, giustamente, e se non ricordo male una volta si arrabbia con un poliziotto che raccoglie un indizio a mani nude. In più nella serie tv si vede proprio Crabtree che controlla le impronte digitali anche se ancora su cartellini e a occhio nudo (o lente di ingrandimento ma non sono sicura di quella). Secondo Wikipedia il primo suggerimento sulle impronte fu nel 1880 e il primo uso effettivo nel 1892. Questo libro è ambientato nel 1895 ...
○ Se dovessi trovarlo leggerei un altro libro con Murdoch? Si, sicuramente. Si legge bene.
○ Preferisco la serie tv o i libri? Sono per la serie tv. Mi piacciono le interazioni con i personaggi che poi diventeranno famosi o il fatto che pensi e inventi cose che poi ufficialmente useremo nel futuro. Nel libro non c'è niente di simile. E i personaggi mi piacciono di più.
February 7, 2022
This was a great read with Carolyn and Kerri as we continue knowing our favorite character, William in the second book.
There is a but, as it's a 4-star and I've almost thought of a 3-star because of terrible people and sad story!
I thought this going to be a better story and more suspenseful than the last one at first. But it's petty shame that the twist was good but not perfect and the characters are unlikable, except for William. Arthur and his wife!
I hope we find the next book more interesting and also more about William and Julia who was a very short but fun introduction of her only on phone.
There is a but, as it's a 4-star and I've almost thought of a 3-star because of terrible people and sad story!
I thought this going to be a better story and more suspenseful than the last one at first. But it's petty shame that the twist was good but not perfect and the characters are unlikable, except for William. Arthur and his wife!
I hope we find the next book more interesting and also more about William and Julia who was a very short but fun introduction of her only on phone.
September 27, 2020
I liked it was a quick easy read, kind of predictable but not in a horrible way. I like Murdoch and Crabtree well enough, although they're not as adorable as the tv show versions.
July 1, 2024
‘Under the Dragon’s Tail’ by Maureen Jennings is book 2 in the Murdoch Mysteries series. There is an extremely popular Canadian TV show based on the characters in these books. But except for characters’ names and the place of a Toronto police station in the late 1890’s, there is little I recognize in the novels about my favorite characters as a fervant fan of the TV show.
If you watch the TV show series either through Hoopla library checkouts or by subscribing to Hulu, you will see charming actors playing amusing characters in plots which are edgy in tackling real life social ills, but maintain a light touch when showing horrible murders. The novels are more noir. The character of Murdoch on TV is that of a genius scientist/inventor/detective who has the excessively proper manners of an English Victorian/Edwardian. In the novels, he is simply a good detective from the wrong side of the tracks. While both TV Murdoch and novel Murdoch are Catholics, TV Murdoch is a good Catholic, while the novel Murdoch no longer has much faith. That said, both Murdoch characters are people with a lot of sympathy towards victims of violence and social ostracism. They both have to restrain themselves from anger and getting themselves fired or losing rank when dealing with bosses who care more about how things look to the public, especially those of the public who are politicians or powerful businessmen, than actual justice.
While I enjoyed reading ‘Under the Dragon’s Tail’ I can’t imagine the TV show ever using the plot of this book, and especially the street dialogue of rough, uneducated or drunken characters, without significantly cleaning everything up. The TV show doesn’t shy away from tough subjects that are in this novel, which involves prostitutes, rape, single mothers, abortions, poverty, and child abuse. But the book is moderately graphic with full disclosure in describing such scenes, although without lingering, while the TV show very briefly shows a murder or an underclass demimonde character, showing only enough for viewers to understand the whole picture without actually having a full disclosure.
It has been interesting, to say the least, in comparing the completely different noir tone of the written novels vs. the more cozy approach of the TV show!
I have copied the book blurb:
”Women rich and poor come to her, desperate and in dire need of help – and discretion. Dolly Merishaw is a midwife and an abortionist in Victorian Toronto, but although she keeps quiet about her clients’ condition, her contempt for them and her greed leaves every one of them resentful and angry. So it comes as no surprise to Detective William Murdoch when this malicious woman is murdered. What is a shock, though, is that a week later a young boy is found dead in Dolly’s squalid kitchen. Now, Murdoch isn’t sure if he’s hunting one murderer – or two.”
I liked the book. It is somewhat standalone, but I think readers will enjoy the continuing drama of Murdoch’s private life which is carried from book to book. Murdoch’s private life is very different from the TV show! Book one is Except the Dying. All in all, it is a good enough historical mystery series to take to the beach!
If you watch the TV show series either through Hoopla library checkouts or by subscribing to Hulu, you will see charming actors playing amusing characters in plots which are edgy in tackling real life social ills, but maintain a light touch when showing horrible murders. The novels are more noir. The character of Murdoch on TV is that of a genius scientist/inventor/detective who has the excessively proper manners of an English Victorian/Edwardian. In the novels, he is simply a good detective from the wrong side of the tracks. While both TV Murdoch and novel Murdoch are Catholics, TV Murdoch is a good Catholic, while the novel Murdoch no longer has much faith. That said, both Murdoch characters are people with a lot of sympathy towards victims of violence and social ostracism. They both have to restrain themselves from anger and getting themselves fired or losing rank when dealing with bosses who care more about how things look to the public, especially those of the public who are politicians or powerful businessmen, than actual justice.
While I enjoyed reading ‘Under the Dragon’s Tail’ I can’t imagine the TV show ever using the plot of this book, and especially the street dialogue of rough, uneducated or drunken characters, without significantly cleaning everything up. The TV show doesn’t shy away from tough subjects that are in this novel, which involves prostitutes, rape, single mothers, abortions, poverty, and child abuse. But the book is moderately graphic with full disclosure in describing such scenes, although without lingering, while the TV show very briefly shows a murder or an underclass demimonde character, showing only enough for viewers to understand the whole picture without actually having a full disclosure.
It has been interesting, to say the least, in comparing the completely different noir tone of the written novels vs. the more cozy approach of the TV show!
I have copied the book blurb:
”Women rich and poor come to her, desperate and in dire need of help – and discretion. Dolly Merishaw is a midwife and an abortionist in Victorian Toronto, but although she keeps quiet about her clients’ condition, her contempt for them and her greed leaves every one of them resentful and angry. So it comes as no surprise to Detective William Murdoch when this malicious woman is murdered. What is a shock, though, is that a week later a young boy is found dead in Dolly’s squalid kitchen. Now, Murdoch isn’t sure if he’s hunting one murderer – or two.”
I liked the book. It is somewhat standalone, but I think readers will enjoy the continuing drama of Murdoch’s private life which is carried from book to book. Murdoch’s private life is very different from the TV show! Book one is Except the Dying. All in all, it is a good enough historical mystery series to take to the beach!
July 4, 2019
In the last seven weeks I have read seven novels by Maureen Jennings. I have been alternating Murdoch stories with book in three of her other series. There are currently 8 novels and prequel novella in the Murdoch series, and there are a total of 7 books in the other three series by Jennings. All of the books I have read have been good reads. And some of them have been great! My only regret is that by the end of the summer I will have read all of Jennings books, at the rate I am currently reading them. I have loved the Murdoch stories, and even though I was a long-time fan of the TV series, the differences are substantial. And yet the core is unchanged. Murdoch is a man of character and integrity. He is astute and determined. And in the end, he always seems to get his man, or women as the case may be.
The first Murdoch novel I read was Murdoch book 8, Let Darkness Bury the Dead, which is currently the final book in the series. Now I have gone back and, in a manner, atypical for me am reading them in order. Like many of the other books I have read by Jennings this novel was hard to put down. I read it in three sittings. Including staying up much later that I should considering my alarm goes off at 5am to get up and ready for work. It was well after midnight when I finished the book, and could finally go to sleep.
This story was a little grittier than the other three Murdoch stories I have read so far. A little on the seedier side of town. And some very shady characters. And Some truly intriguing twists in the plot line. We also meet Dr. Julia Ogden first in a letter and then via a phone conversation with Murdoch. And we get to see a bit more of the variance between the novels and the show with the characters Brackenreid and Constable Crabtree. By the end pf the novel there are four bodies. We have gone through several suspects. And Up and down the societal ladder. A story with implied blackmail. A midwife not above reproach and known as an abortionist. A cabaret singer, with a heart softer than she lets on. And in the midst of it all Murdoch trying to get to the truth and help his squad in the Policeman games.
This story is a page turner from the first to the last.it is incredible hard to put down. And as soon as you finish it you want to move on to the next Murdoch mystery. A good read in a great series!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Maureen Jennings.
The first Murdoch novel I read was Murdoch book 8, Let Darkness Bury the Dead, which is currently the final book in the series. Now I have gone back and, in a manner, atypical for me am reading them in order. Like many of the other books I have read by Jennings this novel was hard to put down. I read it in three sittings. Including staying up much later that I should considering my alarm goes off at 5am to get up and ready for work. It was well after midnight when I finished the book, and could finally go to sleep.
This story was a little grittier than the other three Murdoch stories I have read so far. A little on the seedier side of town. And some very shady characters. And Some truly intriguing twists in the plot line. We also meet Dr. Julia Ogden first in a letter and then via a phone conversation with Murdoch. And we get to see a bit more of the variance between the novels and the show with the characters Brackenreid and Constable Crabtree. By the end pf the novel there are four bodies. We have gone through several suspects. And Up and down the societal ladder. A story with implied blackmail. A midwife not above reproach and known as an abortionist. A cabaret singer, with a heart softer than she lets on. And in the midst of it all Murdoch trying to get to the truth and help his squad in the Policeman games.
This story is a page turner from the first to the last.it is incredible hard to put down. And as soon as you finish it you want to move on to the next Murdoch mystery. A good read in a great series!
Read the review on my blog Book Reviews and More and reviews of other books by Maureen Jennings.
October 31, 2012
This is the second book in the Murdoch Mysteries series, set in Toronto in the late 1800s, and featuring Detective William Murdoch. The series spawned three movie length television films, and a five (so far) season television show. The television show is one of my favourite programmes, and I was eager to read the books. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series, and this one is no disappointment either.
In this installment of the Murdoch Mysteries, a woman named Dolly Merishaw is found murdered in her home. Murdoch discovers that she was a former midwife, who provided a place for unwed mothers to have their children, as well as providing drugs to aid abortion, but that her mean and greedy nature caused a lot of anger and resentment among the women whom she ‘helped’. He quickly discovers that she is the victim of murder, and there are no shortage of suspects. However, when one of her young foster sons is also discovered dead a week later, he has no idea whether he is looking for one murderer or two. His investigation takes him to some surprising places, and he realises that a lot of people have secrets which they wish to remain hidden.
As with the first book, the story is pacey, and kept me guessing throughout. (There were clues to point the reader in the right direction, but Maureen Jenning is capable of throwing in some surprises as well!)
This particular book takes Murdoch through the upper and lower classes of Toronto, and I thought the portrayal of the city in the late 1800s was particularly evocative and enjoyable. Clearly, the author has researched her subject extensively.
Overall, I found this to be a very enjoyable read, and would definitely recommend it, especially to fans of crime and/or historical fiction.
In this installment of the Murdoch Mysteries, a woman named Dolly Merishaw is found murdered in her home. Murdoch discovers that she was a former midwife, who provided a place for unwed mothers to have their children, as well as providing drugs to aid abortion, but that her mean and greedy nature caused a lot of anger and resentment among the women whom she ‘helped’. He quickly discovers that she is the victim of murder, and there are no shortage of suspects. However, when one of her young foster sons is also discovered dead a week later, he has no idea whether he is looking for one murderer or two. His investigation takes him to some surprising places, and he realises that a lot of people have secrets which they wish to remain hidden.
As with the first book, the story is pacey, and kept me guessing throughout. (There were clues to point the reader in the right direction, but Maureen Jenning is capable of throwing in some surprises as well!)
This particular book takes Murdoch through the upper and lower classes of Toronto, and I thought the portrayal of the city in the late 1800s was particularly evocative and enjoyable. Clearly, the author has researched her subject extensively.
Overall, I found this to be a very enjoyable read, and would definitely recommend it, especially to fans of crime and/or historical fiction.
August 5, 2020
Under the Dragon's Tail by Maureen Jennings is the second book in the Detective Murdoch series. This was an engaging read from first page to last with a swiftly paced plot, historical background and characters that are beginning to be "real" to me as a reader.
I received a Kindle copy of this book from my local library
I received a Kindle copy of this book from my local library
February 2, 2023
Under the Dragon’s Tail (Murdoch Mysteries #2) by Maureen Jennings
Dolly Merishaw has spent her life as a midwife, delivering or ending pregnancies that for one reason or another must remain secret. Throughout her career, Dolly has worked with everyone from the lowest dregs of society to the highest. She herself lives in a small, little house with her deaf daughter and two young boys who were left in her care by previous clients. Her violent and greedy nature, plus her extensive knowledge of many different women, makes her more enemies than friends.
When she is found murdered in her own parlor, Murdoch must dig into her life and the lives of some of her previous clients to uncover who may have done her in.
The Murdoch Mysteries have intrigued me since I realized that the television series was based on the books. This is the second book in the series. In the first book, we met a lot of the main characters that will be in the second book, including Murdoch, Crabtree, and Brackenreid, as well as a few new ones.
This was a very well-written story, and I was surprised that I didn't figure out who the murderer was before the big reveal.The author describes every scene in such detail that it is easy to envision each setting. The process of the investigation is written in a way that makes it easy to feel as though you are a part of the case, and the mystery is well laid out.
I really enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to fans of turn-of-the-century mystery novels. I gave this book five stars out of five, and the image above is mine.
Dolly Merishaw has spent her life as a midwife, delivering or ending pregnancies that for one reason or another must remain secret. Throughout her career, Dolly has worked with everyone from the lowest dregs of society to the highest. She herself lives in a small, little house with her deaf daughter and two young boys who were left in her care by previous clients. Her violent and greedy nature, plus her extensive knowledge of many different women, makes her more enemies than friends.
When she is found murdered in her own parlor, Murdoch must dig into her life and the lives of some of her previous clients to uncover who may have done her in.
The Murdoch Mysteries have intrigued me since I realized that the television series was based on the books. This is the second book in the series. In the first book, we met a lot of the main characters that will be in the second book, including Murdoch, Crabtree, and Brackenreid, as well as a few new ones.
This was a very well-written story, and I was surprised that I didn't figure out who the murderer was before the big reveal.The author describes every scene in such detail that it is easy to envision each setting. The process of the investigation is written in a way that makes it easy to feel as though you are a part of the case, and the mystery is well laid out.
I really enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to fans of turn-of-the-century mystery novels. I gave this book five stars out of five, and the image above is mine.
May 18, 2016
My complaints of language and sexual innuendo of the first novel, Except the Dying, are still prevalent in the 2nd book in the Murdoch Mysteries.
However, I feel the plot was tighter, the characterization better, and I experienced a definite softening in my opinion of this very different Murdoch than the television version I'm accustomed to watching.
In fact, there is much to like about Detective William Murdoch. He's not fragile or naive, but he does his best to live life as uprightly as he can manage. He's undergoing sexual temptations right now, but instead of seeking out the wrong kind of female companionship, he's joined a dance class. It allows him to be near attractive, virtuous young women in the hopes that he may develop a relationship. He's all about constancy (or he wouldn't be mourning his deceased fiance this long) and so he's not going to indulge in a casual fling even when he's suffering serious sexual repression. Watch him go against character and succumb to temptation in the 3rd novel.
The mystery itself intrigued me, mostly because I suspect a great deal of readers might take offense at the "preposterous" notion that a midwife/abortionist might attempt to take advantage of any wealthy women who required her services. Imagine!? Murdoch comes up against so many tight-lipped liars in Under the Dragon's Tail that I'm impressed his head didn't spin. Was the killer this woman or that one? Was the killer the midwife's own poor, abused daughter, Lily? What of the little boys living under her roof, how are they involved? And what of the man whose chapters are so fleeting but tie into the story later in an AHAH moment of great clarity.
This is a complex story with many facets to it. Things I'd almost forgotten because they were mentioned only once suddenly became relevant at the end of the book, and I loved those moments when I suddenly understood who was who and what was what and where everyone stood.
Despite the language and promiscuity and sexual slang, I'm not scared off from the series yet. I read this one in about 24 hours simply because I could not put it down. And I've already got book 3 ready and raring to go. I've heard it's better than its predecessors so we'll see if it lives up to the praise!
However, I feel the plot was tighter, the characterization better, and I experienced a definite softening in my opinion of this very different Murdoch than the television version I'm accustomed to watching.
In fact, there is much to like about Detective William Murdoch. He's not fragile or naive, but he does his best to live life as uprightly as he can manage. He's undergoing sexual temptations right now, but instead of seeking out the wrong kind of female companionship, he's joined a dance class. It allows him to be near attractive, virtuous young women in the hopes that he may develop a relationship. He's all about constancy (or he wouldn't be mourning his deceased fiance this long) and so he's not going to indulge in a casual fling even when he's suffering serious sexual repression. Watch him go against character and succumb to temptation in the 3rd novel.
The mystery itself intrigued me, mostly because I suspect a great deal of readers might take offense at the "preposterous" notion that a midwife/abortionist might attempt to take advantage of any wealthy women who required her services. Imagine!? Murdoch comes up against so many tight-lipped liars in Under the Dragon's Tail that I'm impressed his head didn't spin. Was the killer this woman or that one? Was the killer the midwife's own poor, abused daughter, Lily? What of the little boys living under her roof, how are they involved? And what of the man whose chapters are so fleeting but tie into the story later in an AHAH moment of great clarity.
This is a complex story with many facets to it. Things I'd almost forgotten because they were mentioned only once suddenly became relevant at the end of the book, and I loved those moments when I suddenly understood who was who and what was what and where everyone stood.
Despite the language and promiscuity and sexual slang, I'm not scared off from the series yet. I read this one in about 24 hours simply because I could not put it down. And I've already got book 3 ready and raring to go. I've heard it's better than its predecessors so we'll see if it lives up to the praise!
July 14, 2014
Alright, so this pretty much did not amaze me in any manner. I'm thinking that maybe if I was in a better mood I could have possibly given this three, but with my current outlook I couldn't say that I actually liked reading this.
Strangely, most of the characters still seem rather flat and uninspired to me, the plot wasn't all that difficult to figure out, even from early on. I don't think a single thing that happened managed to surprise me in any way, which is disappointing in a mystery. And if the mystery isn't great, at least make me laugh (like the show...) so I don't feel like I'm wasting my time. Still happy about the lack of Ogden, but not deliriously so at this point.
So...probably will read the next book because I have nothing better to do and maybe it will get better.
Strangely, most of the characters still seem rather flat and uninspired to me, the plot wasn't all that difficult to figure out, even from early on. I don't think a single thing that happened managed to surprise me in any way, which is disappointing in a mystery. And if the mystery isn't great, at least make me laugh (like the show...) so I don't feel like I'm wasting my time. Still happy about the lack of Ogden, but not deliriously so at this point.
So...probably will read the next book because I have nothing better to do and maybe it will get better.
March 21, 2021
The second Murdoch novel brings us no closer to the resulting TV show, except for the brief delight of Dr. Ogden. It's dark and dirty, and lacks the wit of the series. I don't think I'll be reading more.
September 6, 2023
I have yet to be wowed by a Murdoch book. We will see if that continues throughout the series since I have no reason to stop reading, as they do have their good points. I'm sure most of my trepidation with these books is the fact that I've watched 16 seasons of the TV show in which most, if not all, of the main characters are portrayed COMPLETELY differently, but the books have just fallen a bit flat for me. 3 stars isn't shabby, though! I still enjoyed it, I read it in a day.
This book wasn't as good as the first one for me. The mystery felt a bit predictable, and there were a lot of references to, uh, men's *business*, if you know what I'm getting at, which felt out of place and kind of uncomfortable to me. Other than that, Julia has finally been introduced, so that'll be interesting, especially since Murdoch had two women, one on each arm, at the end of this one. Quite the chick magnet, which is very interesting.
This book wasn't as good as the first one for me. The mystery felt a bit predictable, and there were a lot of references to, uh, men's *business*, if you know what I'm getting at, which felt out of place and kind of uncomfortable to me. Other than that, Julia has finally been introduced, so that'll be interesting, especially since Murdoch had two women, one on each arm, at the end of this one. Quite the chick magnet, which is very interesting.
September 15, 2024
Under the Dragon's Tail by Maureen Jennings is the second book in the Detective Murdoch Mystery series. Detective Murdoch investigates the murder of Dolly Merishaw, a midwife and abortionist. I love the Murdoch Mysteries television show and enjoyed reading a book from the series that the show was based on, although I much prefer the way the characters are portrayed on screen in this case. There seems to be more humour in the television show also. An interesting mystery but rather squalid with a particularly unlikeable victim.
July 28, 2021
I liked the plot. I have always enjoyed the television series and the book was just as enjoyable. The only thing I found unsettling was how long the murder took to be solved. I guess that makes sense because what took me hours to listen to, on tv, the mystery would have been solved in an hour. 😀!
I enjoyed the performance and reading of the novel. Fun!
I enjoyed the performance and reading of the novel. Fun!
May 15, 2023
One of those cases where Murdoch (finally) finds the murderer, but the circumstances lets him overlook the guilty, because someone else takes the blame to himself and thinks work better this way :D
Also ... I did not get the significance of the title from anything. This is kinda strange to me.
And ... there was something that stroke me: Murdoch is having a significant moustache here. And also his boss, Tom. But I don't remember both of them having a moustache in the TV series !
Also ... I did not get the significance of the title from anything. This is kinda strange to me.
And ... there was something that stroke me: Murdoch is having a significant moustache here. And also his boss, Tom. But I don't remember both of them having a moustache in the TV series !
July 24, 2023
William Murdoch truly is the star of this series. The protagonist always should be the star of their story, but that’s not always the case. It is here, especially since Murdoch’s world is not a very pleasant place at all. 1890s Toronto sucked. In fact, I even forgot this is set in Toronto until Murdoch mentioned the strong wind off of the lake. I'm not sure where I was subconsciously imagining this to be taking place but it wasn't Toronto. But back to Murdoch. He proved again and again why he’s such a good detective, how warmhearted he is, and what a traumatic past he has. The little mentions of his family and his childhood foreshadow a tension-filled return home in Let Loose the Dogs to deal with past traumas induced by his father.
“Sometimes, when his father was safely out of the way at sea, the four of them, his mother, sister, brother, and he would sit around the fire mending the fishing nets. The room smelled of brine and fish and the knots were tough in the salt-stiff twine, but in those rare moments of peace he was happy.”
Other than Murdoch and Constable Crabtree, I didn’t like most of the characters in this story. Dolly was a horrible woman; George, a damaged child taking his pain out on others; Mildred, simply boring; Mrs. Pedlow, just all around unpleasant; and Lily, a practically destroyed young lady. Freddie was a sweetheart who I spent most of the story worrying so much about. I didn’t like Annie Brogan at first but once she shared her story, revealing her true self, I sympathized with her. I don’t approve of many of her decisions and actions in the story, but once she joined Murdoch in his hunt I was fully rooting for her. She didn’t care about the rain, the gross house, or being seen riding a bicycle in skirts, as soon as she was given something to fight for.
“She gasped and a look of such joy came into her face that he could have wept.”
The introduction to Dr. Julia Ogden was quite exciting. She plays a big role in the television show so I’m excited to see how her role in the stories develops and differentiates from the show. Her report on the post-mortem examination was very interesting to read and the phone conversation with Murdoch was delightful.
“Dr. Ogden, if you get tired of medicine you could be a consultant for the police force.” I wonder if this is not foreshadowing, at least for the television show.
This was a pretty dark and depressing story and the ending left me dissatisfied. I didn’t care at all for Mrs. Pedlow’s storyline. The only thing I liked about it was this line from one interrogation scene. “Murdoch thought he had never been conned by such an expensively dressed woman before.” I also didn’t like Lily’s story because it was so tragic and depressing. I had to skip parts of it because I just couldn’t handle it. Dolly was horrible to her children, both blood and foster. I cannot say I was sad to see her die.
“George and Freddie were sitting at the kitchen table. They could have gone into the parlour but they were like song birds who have been caged for too long and don’t fly to freedom even when the door is opened. Dolly never allowed them anywhere but the kitchen and their own room.”
Murdoch is really the best thing about this book. The reunion he brought about between two characters was my favourite part and brought some much needed joy and love to the book. That’s what was missing here. There was very little love between the characters in this book, so I didn't connect with or care much for most of them. I hope the next books have more love and less darkness.
“The children were the ones who suffered the most, as far as he was concerned. The innocent paid the bill of the guilty.”
“Sometimes, when his father was safely out of the way at sea, the four of them, his mother, sister, brother, and he would sit around the fire mending the fishing nets. The room smelled of brine and fish and the knots were tough in the salt-stiff twine, but in those rare moments of peace he was happy.”
Other than Murdoch and Constable Crabtree, I didn’t like most of the characters in this story. Dolly was a horrible woman; George, a damaged child taking his pain out on others; Mildred, simply boring; Mrs. Pedlow, just all around unpleasant; and Lily, a practically destroyed young lady. Freddie was a sweetheart who I spent most of the story worrying so much about. I didn’t like Annie Brogan at first but once she shared her story, revealing her true self, I sympathized with her. I don’t approve of many of her decisions and actions in the story, but once she joined Murdoch in his hunt I was fully rooting for her. She didn’t care about the rain, the gross house, or being seen riding a bicycle in skirts, as soon as she was given something to fight for.
“She gasped and a look of such joy came into her face that he could have wept.”
The introduction to Dr. Julia Ogden was quite exciting. She plays a big role in the television show so I’m excited to see how her role in the stories develops and differentiates from the show. Her report on the post-mortem examination was very interesting to read and the phone conversation with Murdoch was delightful.
“Dr. Ogden, if you get tired of medicine you could be a consultant for the police force.” I wonder if this is not foreshadowing, at least for the television show.
This was a pretty dark and depressing story and the ending left me dissatisfied. I didn’t care at all for Mrs. Pedlow’s storyline. The only thing I liked about it was this line from one interrogation scene. “Murdoch thought he had never been conned by such an expensively dressed woman before.” I also didn’t like Lily’s story because it was so tragic and depressing. I had to skip parts of it because I just couldn’t handle it. Dolly was horrible to her children, both blood and foster. I cannot say I was sad to see her die.
“George and Freddie were sitting at the kitchen table. They could have gone into the parlour but they were like song birds who have been caged for too long and don’t fly to freedom even when the door is opened. Dolly never allowed them anywhere but the kitchen and their own room.”
Murdoch is really the best thing about this book. The reunion he brought about between two characters was my favourite part and brought some much needed joy and love to the book. That’s what was missing here. There was very little love between the characters in this book, so I didn't connect with or care much for most of them. I hope the next books have more love and less darkness.
“The children were the ones who suffered the most, as far as he was concerned. The innocent paid the bill of the guilty.”
August 16, 2014
Crossposted at Booklikes.
I first came across Detective Murdoch when watching television while in Toronto. Recently the series has made its way onto American cable via the Ovation network and under the title The Artful Detective.
Murdoch is a Catholic in the Protestant city of Toronto, at the end of the 1800s. He is a thinking man, a more accessible version of Sherlock Holmes, who attracts the ladies even as he is getting over the death of his love. He is tasked with the job of discovering the murder of Dolly Shaw, a mid-wife and abortionist.
Is this the most perfect mystery? Well no, and it is a bit of morality story, though it should be noted not anti-abortion per se. I have to give Jennings credit for while her hero is male, the book is stocked full of well-developed women of strength – from Dr. Ogden, whose role in this book at least is smaller than on television, to the singer Annie, to Maud – the women find themselves constrained in choice. Murdoch is perhaps more opened minded and sympathy then what would normally be believed, but the writing is good and story diverting. Despite his straight lace appearance, Murdoch does have a bit of humor. He also is willing to improve himself and change his perceptions.
While Toronto doesn’t seem to be a character per se, historical details are well drawn.
I first came across Detective Murdoch when watching television while in Toronto. Recently the series has made its way onto American cable via the Ovation network and under the title The Artful Detective.
Murdoch is a Catholic in the Protestant city of Toronto, at the end of the 1800s. He is a thinking man, a more accessible version of Sherlock Holmes, who attracts the ladies even as he is getting over the death of his love. He is tasked with the job of discovering the murder of Dolly Shaw, a mid-wife and abortionist.
Is this the most perfect mystery? Well no, and it is a bit of morality story, though it should be noted not anti-abortion per se. I have to give Jennings credit for while her hero is male, the book is stocked full of well-developed women of strength – from Dr. Ogden, whose role in this book at least is smaller than on television, to the singer Annie, to Maud – the women find themselves constrained in choice. Murdoch is perhaps more opened minded and sympathy then what would normally be believed, but the writing is good and story diverting. Despite his straight lace appearance, Murdoch does have a bit of humor. He also is willing to improve himself and change his perceptions.
While Toronto doesn’t seem to be a character per se, historical details are well drawn.
August 14, 2007
UNDER THE DRAGON’S TAIL (Pol. Proc-Toronto, Canada-late 1800s) – G
Jennings, Maureen - 2nd in series
St. Martin’s Press, 1998- Hardcover
*** In the midst of training for a police tournament, Acting-Detective William Murdoch is called to investigate the death of Dolly Merishaw, a woman who had “taken care” of pregnancies for women rich and poor. She has left behind two small “foster” boys and a young woman who doesn’t speak and has disappeared following Dolly’s death. Dolly had secrets, but she is not the only one and someone is desperate enough to kill, and kill again, to keep their secret.
*** Jennings has done a masterful job of depicting Toronto in the late 1800s, her exhaustive research very apparent. She is merciless in showing the coarseness and desperation of the lower class and, in their own way, the middle and upper class. I almost have the feeling that other than Murdoch and his landlords, Jennings doesn’t like her characters very much. But sense of place and time isn’t enough for me. There were a lot of characters, most of them without much character development and the plot a bit overly complicated. Still, Jennings holds my interest well enough that I shall keep reading her.
Jennings, Maureen - 2nd in series
St. Martin’s Press, 1998- Hardcover
*** In the midst of training for a police tournament, Acting-Detective William Murdoch is called to investigate the death of Dolly Merishaw, a woman who had “taken care” of pregnancies for women rich and poor. She has left behind two small “foster” boys and a young woman who doesn’t speak and has disappeared following Dolly’s death. Dolly had secrets, but she is not the only one and someone is desperate enough to kill, and kill again, to keep their secret.
*** Jennings has done a masterful job of depicting Toronto in the late 1800s, her exhaustive research very apparent. She is merciless in showing the coarseness and desperation of the lower class and, in their own way, the middle and upper class. I almost have the feeling that other than Murdoch and his landlords, Jennings doesn’t like her characters very much. But sense of place and time isn’t enough for me. There were a lot of characters, most of them without much character development and the plot a bit overly complicated. Still, Jennings holds my interest well enough that I shall keep reading her.
February 5, 2015
My favorite bit of this book: Julia! One of my favorite feisty feminist TV characters is actually in the book series. Granted, her part is very small, but she exists! Now to hope that she shows up in later books...
I read the third book in the series before this one, and the "romance" with Mrs. Jones isn't one at all--from the third book, I thought that something (anything!) must have happened, but no. As I'm slowly learning from this series, Jennings does a very nice job of characterization with a few of the main characters (Murdoch, Crabtree, and the Kitchens) but mostly precious little for the secondary ones. She introduces them, plays with them a little, and then drops them. (Please don't do this with either Julia or Clarice Kirkpatrick!)
The mystery in this one seemed pretty straightforward, although there were a ton of extraneous details. Not red herrings, just miscellaneous character details that did nothing to further the plot. Of the three books I've read so far, this has been the strongest, both for the mystery and the characterization. Book Murdoch seems like an actual person, one with conflicting emotions, changeable nature, and trying to figure out life, and I really enjoy his characterization.
But this series definitely needs more Julia.
I read the third book in the series before this one, and the "romance" with Mrs. Jones isn't one at all--from the third book, I thought that something (anything!) must have happened, but no. As I'm slowly learning from this series, Jennings does a very nice job of characterization with a few of the main characters (Murdoch, Crabtree, and the Kitchens) but mostly precious little for the secondary ones. She introduces them, plays with them a little, and then drops them. (Please don't do this with either Julia or Clarice Kirkpatrick!)
The mystery in this one seemed pretty straightforward, although there were a ton of extraneous details. Not red herrings, just miscellaneous character details that did nothing to further the plot. Of the three books I've read so far, this has been the strongest, both for the mystery and the characterization. Book Murdoch seems like an actual person, one with conflicting emotions, changeable nature, and trying to figure out life, and I really enjoy his characterization.
But this series definitely needs more Julia.
Read
July 15, 2012Under the Dragon’s Tail, by Maureen Jennings, a-minus, narrated by David Marrantz, produced by Audible Inc. and downloaded from audible.com.
This is the second in the Detective Murdoch series in 1855 Victorian Canada. In this one, a woman is found dead. She has two little boys living with her, supposedly foster children, and she has a daughter who is deaf and can’t talk and who others think is stupid. Detective Murdoch learns that the dead woman, Dolly, was not liked by anyone. She ran a home for unwed girls who could come and have their babies, but she treated them badly and with contempt. She also handed out herbs that would help a girl have an abortion. So no one was very surprised or unhappy when Dolly turned up dead. But then within a week, one of the two boys living with her is dead as well. Detective Murdoch doesn’t know if he’s seeking one murderer or more than one murderer. He has a variety of characters to choose from, all of whom are unforgettable characters. I like these books even though I’m usually not a great one for historic fiction. I’ll certainly be on to the next one.
This is the second in the Detective Murdoch series in 1855 Victorian Canada. In this one, a woman is found dead. She has two little boys living with her, supposedly foster children, and she has a daughter who is deaf and can’t talk and who others think is stupid. Detective Murdoch learns that the dead woman, Dolly, was not liked by anyone. She ran a home for unwed girls who could come and have their babies, but she treated them badly and with contempt. She also handed out herbs that would help a girl have an abortion. So no one was very surprised or unhappy when Dolly turned up dead. But then within a week, one of the two boys living with her is dead as well. Detective Murdoch doesn’t know if he’s seeking one murderer or more than one murderer. He has a variety of characters to choose from, all of whom are unforgettable characters. I like these books even though I’m usually not a great one for historic fiction. I’ll certainly be on to the next one.
January 8, 2017
Under the Dragon’s Tail is a terrific historical mystery set in Victorian Toronto, Canada. Author Maureen Jennings does such a superb job of recreating the vocabulary, lifestyles, and values of the time that I was fully immersed in the story. Great historical novels provide insightful looks at the lives, behavior, customs, and thoughts of a wide array of people. In this case, the novel provides a revealing glimpse into poverty and the plight of women in difficult situations.
I don’t often see this much detail in historical novels, and I now understand why Jennings has gained so many fans. The pacing works well and the characters are memorable. This is one of those thoughtful mysteries that doesn’t rely on lots of action, but a straightforward following of leads and interviews.
Although there isn’t a long list of suspects, there doesn’t need to be in this case. Justice is served in a somewhat surprising, although plausible way. Under the Dragon’s Tail is a must-read for those who love historical mysteries, but any mystery fan will likely enjoy this read. It’s also no surprise that a highly successful Canadian television mystery series is based her novels.
I don’t often see this much detail in historical novels, and I now understand why Jennings has gained so many fans. The pacing works well and the characters are memorable. This is one of those thoughtful mysteries that doesn’t rely on lots of action, but a straightforward following of leads and interviews.
Although there isn’t a long list of suspects, there doesn’t need to be in this case. Justice is served in a somewhat surprising, although plausible way. Under the Dragon’s Tail is a must-read for those who love historical mysteries, but any mystery fan will likely enjoy this read. It’s also no surprise that a highly successful Canadian television mystery series is based her novels.
July 19, 2016
"Kto powinien sięgnąć po tę książkę? Miłośnicy kryminałów, zwłaszcza tych retro. Amatorzy detektywistycznych zagadek rozwiązywanych w starym, dobrym stylu. Pasjonaci spraw, których wyjaśnienie do samego końca pozostaje tajemnicą. Czytelnicy ceniący towarzystwo wyrazistych i nietuzinkowych bohaterów. Osoby szanujące swój czas, pragnące przeczytać coś, co ich w pełni usatysfakcjonuje – coś, co nie będzie tylko czystą rozrywką, ale też umysłową pożywką.
Jeśli choć jedno z powyższych stwierdzeń pasuje do ciebie – musisz sięgnąć po tę książkę. I nie martw się o to, że nie znasz poprzedniej części, że być może przeszkadzać ci to będzie w lekturze. Nic z tych rzeczy! Mając za sobą dwa tomy cyklu zapewniam, że da się je czytać jako zupełnie niepowiązane ze sobą części. Także do dzieła! Przyjemnej lektury życzę ^_^"
Całą recenzję znajdziecie na moim blogu, na który Was serdecznie zapraszam ^_^
http://magicznyswiatksiazki.pl/pod-gw...
Jeśli choć jedno z powyższych stwierdzeń pasuje do ciebie – musisz sięgnąć po tę książkę. I nie martw się o to, że nie znasz poprzedniej części, że być może przeszkadzać ci to będzie w lekturze. Nic z tych rzeczy! Mając za sobą dwa tomy cyklu zapewniam, że da się je czytać jako zupełnie niepowiązane ze sobą części. Także do dzieła! Przyjemnej lektury życzę ^_^"
Całą recenzję znajdziecie na moim blogu, na który Was serdecznie zapraszam ^_^
http://magicznyswiatksiazki.pl/pod-gw...
May 31, 2017
Entering the world of Detective Murdoch was much different than I thought it would be, especially if you first discovered William Murdoch and the Toronto Constabulary through the TV show. This book was much more enjoyable, it was able to stand on it's own two legs. For the readers know the style that this series is written in. Since in Except the dying it's a sink or swim to the reader that probably would come from the TV show, it might crack your mind if you don't separate the two Murdoch universes. This one had what I could have wanted in it and more. Intrigue, the grittiness of 19th century Toronto. In this one, I really wanted to read more even though the case was solved. I wanted to know more for the affected parties involved, what happens next after the epilogue. However Murdoch would have nothing to do with them now and you'll have to use your imagination. (That's how good she is)
March 14, 2018
I started this series here, with the second book in the series. Had I not known that this was the second in the series, I wouldn't have guessed it was. Perhaps it's because I've watched the TV series, but previous books/cases weren't mentioned and the author did a wonderful job of writing the characters to not make it seem like the second in a series.
I really enjoyed this, but for fans of the TV show, I will say that the TV show strays from the books - this has a much stronger focus on Murdoch with Crabtree as a strong secondary character, but other characters from the series may get a mention, but don't necessarily show up in person even for a scene.
I really enjoyed this, but for fans of the TV show, I will say that the TV show strays from the books - this has a much stronger focus on Murdoch with Crabtree as a strong secondary character, but other characters from the series may get a mention, but don't necessarily show up in person even for a scene.
October 18, 2018
This is a good book - however, if you are expecting the characters from the TV series Murdoch Mysteries, you stand a chance of being somewhat disappointed. The characters in the book are nothing like those on TV - as is so often the case. Provided you keep this in mind, you should enjoy this book if you like murders (reading about them, that is, not committing them).
The characters are well-written and the plot moves at a steady pace. The murder is solvable (although I didn't solve all of it) and you don't feel cheated when you find out whodunit. The ending to the book is a little vague, but that doesn't really detract from the rest of the book.
The characters are well-written and the plot moves at a steady pace. The murder is solvable (although I didn't solve all of it) and you don't feel cheated when you find out whodunit. The ending to the book is a little vague, but that doesn't really detract from the rest of the book.
October 27, 2008
When I first started reading this book I thought it was going to be really slow and drab but as I got a bit more into it I was easily pulled into the "who-dunnit" mode and I was hooked. Nothing too spectacular, no really amazing twists or turns but it was a good mystery, set back in the late 1800s of Toronto, Canada. A nice short read.
November 18, 2013
I read the first book in the Murdoch series in just a day or two, but this one took me...several months. I just couldn't seem to get into the story. I found the plot slow and the characters kind of one-dimensional. Consequently, I didn't really care whodunnit. Still, it's fun to see places like Marhkam and Port Hope incorporated into the plot. Two stars for historical content!
April 25, 2014
I liked this book more than book one, the characters were warmer and had more depth to them. There was also a bit of humour, which lightened the story a little. The historic information all sounds very accurate and seems well researched. I like the police sports competition practice that is going on in the background, which all of the police seem to take very seriously.
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