by Cuyler Overholt
Series: Dr. Genevieve Summerford Mystery #1
Narrator: Carly Robins
Length: 16 hours and 18 minutes
Genres: Historical Fiction, Mystery
Source: Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Narration: 4 cups
New York City, 1907. At the dawn of the twentieth century, Americans believe that science, especially the medical sciences, will soon conquer all of mankind's ills. For a brief time medical schools open their doors to women, allowing them to join the scientific crusade. Genevieve Summerford is one woman who answers the call....
After a past family tragedy for which she holds herself to blame, Dr. Genevieve Summerford wants nothing more than to succeed in her new career as a psychiatrist, and win back the respect of her family and peers. That goal is thrown into jeopardy, however, when one of her patients is arrested for murder - a murder Genevieve fears she may have unwittingly provoked. Desperate to prove to herself and the authorities that her patient is innocent, she is forced to enlist the aid of an influential Tammany captain who once worked for her family as a stable boy, and whose motives for helping her now are open to doubt. Forging an uneasy alliance, the two uncover an astonishing secret about one of the city's most powerful families: a secret which, should Genevieve choose to reveal it, could bring down catastrophe on those she cares most about, but which, should she let it lie, will almost certainly send her patient to the electric chair.
A Deadly Affection by Cuyler Overholt is the first novel in the Dr. Genevieve Summerford Mystery series. Dr. Summerford is one of the only a few female practitioners in New York City in the year 1907. Narrated by Carly Robins this story shares a murder-mystery and offers humor and fascinating insight into this era. I quickly found myself drawn into the world.
Genevieve Summerford was such an interesting character, and her past pulled at my heartstrings. She is passionate and truly ahead of her time. She has been granted permission to meet with a group of women who suffer from illnesses that Genevieve believes are a manifestation of their emotional state. All have suffered a significant loss. During her first meeting, she advises a young woman. Said woman is arrested the next morning for the murder of her doctor. Genevieve worries her advice provoked her patient but upon speaking to the accused, she is convinced of her innocence. Talks with the police soon have her convinced they believe they have their murderer. She decides to help, and the tale that unfolds was excellent and fully developed.
The book is rich with information as Genevieve sets out to investigate. We learn about diseases and get a sense of the political climate as we cross through different social classes. Overholt fleshed out the characters and highlighted obstacles Genevieve faced as a woman in 1900’s. I found all of these tidbits fascinating and admittedly love this period.
The good doctor was refreshing, tenacious but level-headed. She is quite bright and while she makes assumptions she always follows up with hard facts. Her past and the need for her father’s approval hinder her, but we see her transform in this first novel. There is a second chance romance, and while it weaves its way throughout the tale allowing us to connect, it never hinders the investigation.
There were many “ah-ha” moments and things that happened that correlate to the way we do things today. I won’t say as I abhor spoilers, but I can honestly say each made me smile and felt genuine. The mystery concluded after some climatic scenes and we even get a little follow-up. I was delighted that each thread and storyline was addressed leaving no loose ends. I am quite anxious to read more of this mystery series featuring our heroine.
Carly Robins narrated, and she did a terrific job with Genevieve. From her dialect to mannerisms she enhanced my enjoyment. I am hoping she continues to read this series.
Fans of mystery, the 1900’s, forensics and medicine who enjoy strong heroines, a little snark and a dash of clean romance should grab A Deadly Affection.
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Terri M.
I’ll admit I requested this from NetGalley based solely on the cover. The story drew me in and the twists and turns kept me reading. Definitely a strong tight mystery!
AngelErin
This sounds right up my alley! I think I have this one on my TBR already, but I’m definitely going to check. Wonderful review and I’m glad you enjoyed it! 😀
Jess Fairday's Blog
Oohh- this sounds good. I love the cover and the story sounds like one that I will enjoy listening to for sure. Thanks for sharing!
Bookworm Brandee
I picked up this one at BEA and I’ll have to dig it up soon! 😉 I like the sound of all the historical detail that seems to be woven into the story and I love an unconventional heroine…especially one working in a male-dominated field. 🙂
Laura Thomas
I’m always up for a good mystery. This sounds like a long listen:)
RO
I probably wouldn’t have picked this up on my own, but reading about women in the 1900’s to learn more about medical history sounds so cool. Love your review! Hugs…
The Bibliophile Babe
Oooh, sounds very good for a first book!
Stormi Johnson
Oh this one is on my want list, I am glad you liked it. 🙂
Debbie Haupt
Kim thanks for the review and that author’s name is quite a mouthful and a new one to me too!
Angela Adams
The heroine’s profession reminded me of the old TV show, “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman.” Thanks for the post, and enjoy your weekend!
Melissa (Books and Things)
This one sounds perfect for my mom. She loves mysteries and adding in the medical aspect makes it perfect. Great rec! Also congraties!
Kristin
It sounds pretty good! Everything you’d want in a story: second chance romance AND a mystery with a setting in the past. I’m curious why it didn’t blow your cozy socks off (hmmmmm…).
sherry fundin
Sounds good. Have a super weekend, Kim.
Heidi
Sounds like a fun, fascinating and informative read.
Danielle Nolan
I enjoy forensics and settings that occur within the early 1900’s, Everything about this sounds great, including the main character. It is nice to see that the narrator was able to carry that so well. Great review!
Sophia Rose
This sounds fantastic. I love historical mysteries. Definitely slapping this one on the wish list pile. 🙂
kindlemom1
Sounds like this was a pretty solid first book. I really think I would like it as well, I’ve really been into this genre lately with all the books I’ve been reading so I will make sure to add this one to my pile. Happy Friday Kim!
Ailyn Koay
would love to read about it, I also want to know about forensics back in the days XS
Melliane
I think you enjoyed this one a bit less than me but I thought it was a really good one. I loved the topics used
Ethan
Reading about this book reminds me of a couple I have read in the past. I’m not sure if you’re familiar with the Bess Crawford series by Charles Todd, but it seems to be of a similar vein. For something that is less of a mystery but more of a character study, check out The Book of Madness and Cures by Regina O’Melveny about a woman doctor in the 16th century!
blodeuedd
Her voice sounds familiar, hmmm
Kimberly
Lordy this one has been sitting on my Goodreads shelf for 3 years, and you’re the second person to bring it up in a review lately. After the other review I put it on hold at my library (the book not the audio) but I have it suspended so I don’t get it until the beginning of the new year. I’m especially interested in the forensics aspects of the time.
kimbacaffeinate
Was this published before? I hope you enjoy it Kimberly.