laurenjodi's review against another edition
4.0
For the Love of Mike
3.5 Stars
Hired to investigate a case of industrial espionage, Molly Murphy soon finds herself ensconced in a sweatshop facing the tyranny of the overseers, the threats of street gangs and the workings of union organizers. When a friend is murdered, Molly must sort out who amongst her enemies and allies is the killer.
The mystery in this installment is relatively minor and takes a back seat to the focus on the plight of the garment workers in turn of the century New York. The historical details are interesting and Bowen's research is excellent, particularly the descriptions of the awful working conditions in the sweatshops as well as the inclusion of a fire, which is obviously based on factual events.
Molly is an endearing heroine and her detecting skills are improving. Nevertheless, she does not always think about the consequences of her actions, which often land her in serious trouble.
Molly's relationship with Daniel Sullivan had such potential at the start of this series, but has taken an awkward turn with the revelation of his. This does not reflect well on him at all as a love interest and it will take a great deal for him to redeem himself. That said, it is good to see Molly stand up for herself in this regard.
All in all, a good addition to the series and I look forward to more of Molly's cases.
3.5 Stars
Hired to investigate a case of industrial espionage, Molly Murphy soon finds herself ensconced in a sweatshop facing the tyranny of the overseers, the threats of street gangs and the workings of union organizers. When a friend is murdered, Molly must sort out who amongst her enemies and allies is the killer.
The mystery in this installment is relatively minor and takes a back seat to the focus on the plight of the garment workers in turn of the century New York. The historical details are interesting and Bowen's research is excellent, particularly the descriptions of the awful working conditions in the sweatshops as well as the inclusion of a fire, which is obviously based on factual events.
Molly is an endearing heroine and her detecting skills are improving. Nevertheless, she does not always think about the consequences of her actions, which often land her in serious trouble.
Molly's relationship with Daniel Sullivan had such potential at the start of this series, but has taken an awkward turn with the revelation of his
Spoiler
fiancee, whom he is reluctant to leaveAll in all, a good addition to the series and I look forward to more of Molly's cases.
leavingsealevel's review against another edition
2.0
I can't lie, I do enjoy a good mystery novel featuring an inept detective. Although slightly less inept in this one.
nataliewright1995's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
oceanwriter's review against another edition
I’m going to revisit this when I’m more in the mood for a cozy mystery. I really only want to know if Molly gets together with this one guy.
susanatwestofmars's review against another edition
4.0
This series is fun. It's light and yet it's tackling huge issues (that even affect us to this day). Molly's life is messy and complicated, and I appreciate that. While I didn't like how one-dimensional Mike wound up being and wish he'd been more nuanced, I really liked the introduction of Jacob and the potential difficulties that brings -- and also the potential opportunities to continue to explore how American society was changing so completely during this time period.
On to #4!
On to #4!
lberestecki's review against another edition
2.0
I'm giving up on this series. I really enjoyed the first Molly Murphy book, but Daniel has become such an annoying character. He's clearly set up to be the one Molly ends up with, but I find him quite unlikable and find myself rooting against him. This entry in the series also suffered from the fact the the mystery was really a secondary plot.