Irina Shapiro is a favorite author of mine whom I somehow haven’t written a review for on this blog yet, and I’m mentally kicking myself for that. I’ve read several of her books – usually involving themes of hauntings and mysteries – and I’ve loved every one. She writes historical fiction that often features a dual timeline with a present-day thread, and she’s a master of her craft. Many of her books are available on Kindle Unlimited, which is always a bonus for me, because once I finish one, I immediately have to pick up another.

Today I want to talk about one of my favorites: her Victorian detective mystery The Highgate Cemetery Murder. Set in London in the 1850s, the book follows the story of Gemma Tate, a nurse who served under Florence Nightingale. Her twin brother Victor has just tragically died in an accident, but Gemma isn’t convinced the death was accidental – and for good reason. Victor recently discovered the body of a murdered young woman in Highgate Cemetery.

Inspector Sebastian Bell is assigned to the murder case of the young woman Victor found before his untimely demise, and he has many demons of his own to contend with: the death of his wife, his reliance on opium, and his department’s distrust of him. He’s reluctant to accept help from an amateur sleuth, but Gemma insists on being part of the investigation.

Together, the two of them must solve the initial murder and prove that Victor’s death was a murder as well, bringing justice to the killer still on the loose. They are an unlikely duo with a seemingly impossible task ahead of them, but in this gritty, atmospheric, and layered mystery, they make the perfect team.

There are several content warnings to keep in mind for this one, including but not limited to:

graphic violence
sexual assault
murder
drug abuse

Shapiro effortlessly weaves together themes of a corrupt upper class, the powerlessness of women in the Victorian era, and justice for the forgotten. If you’re looking for a fantastic mystery that will transport you to a different era, this book (or really any of Shapiro’s books) would be a great choice for you!