THE CASE OF THE MISSING MAID Harriet Morrow Investigates, Book 1

Nicol Zanzarella splendidly captures 1890s Chicago and its diverse communities. Listeners meet 21-year-old "Harry" Morrow, who is delighted at being chosen to be the Prescott Agency's first female detective. After enduring prejudice from fellow detectives, Harry visits an elderly woman who claims her maid is missing. Colorful descriptions of buggies, meat plants, streets, and inclement weather enliven the story as Harry investigates on her trusty bicycle. When she meets Agnes's family, Zanzarella deftly provides some Polish phrases and accents. Gradually, Harry's detection skills lead her to enter the gay underground, seeking Agnes's captor. Family life, baked goodies, and phrases such as "unhand me" add a vintage atmosphere. Audio enhances Zanzarella's luminous segues from quiet reactions to life-or-death action, making for a compelling listen. S.G.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2025]