The Punjat's Ruby

Miss Danforth Mysteries #1

by Marian J.A. Jackson

Dr. Conan Doyle, Mark Twain, and even her wealthy father tried to dissuade her, but Abigail Patience Danforth was determined to be the world's first female detective and got her chance when the Punjat's ruby disappeared. First in a series of fair-play mysteries in the tradition of Christie and Sayers.

Genres: Mystery

252 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1990

Reviews

[Karin · Rating 3 out of 5]

An odd sort of mystery. While the Punjat's Ruby has been stolen, there is very little actual sleuthing going on. I did enjoy the characters and their machinations as they move the story toward resolution.

[Ann]

Abigail Danforth is a young Victorian woman who seems to have everything that a young lady of her era could wish. With a rich father who supplies her every need, she runs in the best circles of society in both America and England. She is on the brink of her debut, and is quite sure to find a suitable husband who will meet her father's approval.

However, Abigail is not content. She wants more from life than the strictures of Victorian society allow a woman of her class. Inspired by the Sherlock Holmes novels she devours, she wants to be the world's first female consulting detective.

She goes so far as to contact Sir Arthur conan Doyle, who refuses to be of any help. She discusses the possibility with Mark Twain, who is a bit less discouraging, but who offers no real aid.

When the Punjat's Ruby disappears from an elaborate birthday party given for the Prince of Wales, Abigail is suddently cast into the role she desired.

It turns out to be a dangerous pursuit and puts her fondest wish to a serious test.

I enjoyed this very much.

[Deena · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this. I have my doubts about the historical accuracy of some things, but as it is not really a period on which I am an expert I could be wrong, and I kept my doubts to idle speculation and did not allow them to spoil my enjoyment of the story. There were, perhaps, too many characters to keep straight easily, and Abigail's reflections on the role of women in her strata of socio-economic class bordered on didactic at time - but it was still a fun read.

[Jane · Rating 1 out of 5]

Astoundingly mediocre writing. Clunky descriptions with clipped and cumbersome conversations. Dialogue was herkie jerky and not at all enjoyable. Honestly couldn't make it past the first two chapters. Did not finish, saved myself. Bummer because this author wrote five books in the series and I was excited about the premise and characters, and was looking forward to reading all five novels.