The Russian Hill Murders: A Sarah Woolson Mystery

I found this to be another good book that explores many challenges that faced women in the late 1800s (no vote, little career opportunities, pressure to get married) through a nicely plotted cozy murder mystery. I found it to be similar to the Gaslight Mystery series and also the Kate Shackleton Mysteries. I think anyone who likes cozy mysteries should read this series as it gives some insights to what women have had to face that is valuable for both men and women to be aware of.

This is the second volume of the Sarah Woolson series set in 1880's San Francisco, following just a few months after the events of MURDER ON NOB HILL. Sarah, one of the first women to be admited to the California Bar, had managed to gain a position in one of most prestigious law firms in San Francisco. Although she had managed to represent her clients well and managed to uncover a murderer Sarah was not a valued, or even welcome member of the law firm. As the RUSSIAN HILL MURDERS begins she has managed to further enrage her employers by first accepting the widow of a sweatshop worker as a client and then agreeing to defend a Chinese cook who has been charged with murder. Poor Sarah cannot even seem to get a rest in her private life as first one and then another member of her social set die under mysterious circumstances, one right in front of her. Sarah, along with fellow attorney Robert Campbell follow the trail of clues through the varied levels of late Victorian San Francisco society. Despite the cosmopolitan setting this series is very much in the cozy style, the true attraction here is on the characters and subplots rather than the actual mystery. The mysteries here are moderately challenging, with perhaps a twist or two to keep the reader guessing but what really holds the reader's interest here are the subplots....especially those concerning Sarah's love life (or lack thereof) now that a second (and perhaps even a third) potential suitor has been introduced into the series. This series will appeal to those cozy mystery fans who also enjoy a historical setting. In many ways Sarah is reminiscient of Elizabeth Peter's AMELIA PEABODY. The two both share outspoken opinions at odds with Victorian ideas on women's rights and social classes. THE RUSSIAN HILL MURDERS could be enjoyed by itself but beginning with MURDER ON NOB HILL would probably be preferred.

I love this book/cd. The Russian Hill Murders are just as great as the Nob Hill Murders. I love how it's set in the 1800's. I listen to the CD's in the car to and from work. They are entertaining and make the traffic go so much faster (haha).

Super mystery! Well written and full of suspense. I couldn't put it down until the very end. I thought I'd figured out whodunit, but turns out I was wrong. Kept me guessing until the last chapter. Sarah Woolson is an out-spoken, fun, funny, well-developed and intelligent heroine. I love the way she takes charge of a situation and sticks with it until the end. I also loved Pierce Godfrey, and hope we'll see him again soon. What a hunk!!! Keep 'em coming! Can't wait until the next book.

I am so enjoying this series. The story moved right along, kept me interested and wanting to know what was coming. The final courtroom scene was a bit melodramatic, but didn't put me off the book. Tallman has created a smart, feisty character supported by her family but fighting society's norms, and the supporting characters are equally interesting. I definitely want to know what happens to them and eagerly await the next book.

As I thoroughly enjoyed the first book in the series,I had high hopes for The Russian Hill Murders,and Ms Tallman met and surpassed my expectations. The characters are well developed (and delightful, I might add),and the plot is just intricate enough to keep you guessing. I had a lot of fun trying to come up with "whodunnit" before Sarah Woolson.The writing is articulate, and there is a sense of excitement at all times. Highly recommended