THE CATER STREET HANGMAN by Anne Perry, 2000

While the Ellison girls were out paying calls and drinking tea like proper Victorian ladies, a maid in their household was strangled to death. The quiet and young Inspector Pitt investigates the scene and finds no one above suspicion. As his intense questioning causes many a composed facade to crumble, Pitt finds himself couriously drawn to pretty Charlotte Ellison. Yet, a romance between a society girl and so unsuitable a suitor was impossible in the midst of a murder. (Amazon product description)

Review by Rachel Birch, Secret Chef

I am a sucker for mysteries, and Anne Perry is a master mystery writer.  As you read, you are sure that you have solved it and then she proves you wrong.  I did not know "who done it" until the very last page. 

This novel is the first book in the Charlotte and Inspector Pitt series (they are all awesome).  Charlotte is a single young woman who is slowly becoming a spinster.  In her mother's opinion, Charlotte is far to opinionated and brash. 

This book tells the story of a seriel murderer in London and the terror that Jack the Ripper might be returning.  Through Inspector Pitts ingenious problem solving and Charlottes mid-level social contacts they strive to stop the fervour in 19th century London.

Market: Adult Fiction Mystery

Language: None

Sensuality: Moderate

Violence: 18-19th Century Policework so kinda Moderate

Mature Themes: Death, Murder

Book formats:
The Cater Street Hangman: The First Charlotte and Thomas Pitt Novel (Mortalis) (paperback)

To learn more about the author, visit: Anne Perry