Dr. Lydia Weston, a physician in 1870s Philadelphia is used to being busy at the Woman's Hospital and she loves her work. Still, she is always busy, teaching and practicing medicine. When one of her patients, a young woman and chambermaid, Anna Ward is pulled out of the river and declared to be a suicide, Dr. Weston is suspicious. Anna had been a regular patient, perhaps because she found Lydia sympathetic to her hard life of working and sending her wages to her sister to support their disabled brother. Also, Anna wanted to make more of herself, and Lydia often recommended and gave her books for her to read. Dr. Weston now feels that she had failed Anna and when she has a friend (and male doctor) reach out to the medical examiner and police, she is allowed to view the body and she gets drawn into the investigation.

Special thanks to NetGalley, author, and publisher for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts. I am a sucker for a strong female detective/sleuth books. So this book was right up my favorite alley. This book did all the things slight witty banter between characters. I loved the side characters and their growth so far. I am hoping she will be writing a sequel! 4 out of 5 stars!

Great storytelling and well-developed characters. I was hooked from the first page. Mystery and intrigue all wrapped up in a gripping tale. Definitely recommend.

While the blurb for Ritu Mukerji’s historical mystery, Murder by Degrees, suggested it was for readers of Jacqueline Winspear or Charles Todd, I thought of Maddie Day’s Quaker Midwife series. Both authors write about women in medical fields in the U.S. during the second half of the 19th century. Even after finishing the book about Dr. Lydia Weston, I thought of Rose Carroll in Day’s series.

Dr. Lydia Weston is a professor and anatomist at Women’s Medical College of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia in 1875. After her father’s death, she and her mother struggled in poverty and worked to find the money to send Weston to school and then to medical school. In the 1860s and ’70s, it was a struggle for women to be accepted as doctors. Dr. Harlan Stanley and Dr. Anthea Stanley, Lydia’s friends and mentors, are right there beside her as they educate women in the profession. At the same time, they’ve opened the Spruce Street Clinic because medical care is not just for the rich. One of Lydia’s patients has been Anna Ward, a chambermaid to the wealthy Curtis family.

Lydia hasn’t seen Anna for three weeks, but she’s been so busy time got away from her. When she learns of the body found in the Schuylkill River, and Anna’s sister identifies her, Weston can’t believe it was suicide. Inspector Thomas Volcker doesn’t believe it was suicide either, despite all appearances. Because she feels guilty that she didn’t help Anna more than she could, Lydia insists that she help with the autopsy. Despite Sergeant Charles Davies’ reluctance to work with a woman, Volcker accepts Lydia’s help in interviewing those who worked with Anna at the Curtis household.

A death that appears to be suicide. A chambermaid who appears to be a different person to everyone who knew her. To Lydia, she was a young, hardworking woman who loved her sister and brother who lived with a disability. She was trying to better herself by reading. Her diary entries contain poetry, but take a dark turn before they end. Weston, who had to work for her own education, and fights daily against male doctors’ attitude of superiority, understands a young woman’s desperation. She’s determined to find answers for Anna Ward.

On the surface, Murder by Degrees appears to be a mystery about the death of a working class servant in 1875. But, Mukerji’s debut examines women’s conditions, social conditions, and the history in Philadelphia just ten years after the Civil War. There’s a little more medical information than some might appreciate, but Dr. Lydia Weston’s knowledge and education are essential to the story. Those details also show the state of the field at the time, with techniques that seemed modern and up-to-date in 1875.

Mukerji’s Dr. Lydia Weston is a fascinating new protagonist in mystery literature.

Lydia Weston is a doctor in 19th-century Philadelphia, a time when woman doctors were still uncommon and constantly fighting for the respect of their peers and patients. In addition to being a practicing physician, Lydia teaches at the Woman’s Medical College of Pennsylvania, and to earn additional funds, sometimes assists her mentor, Dr. Harlan Stanley, with autopsies for the police.

When one of her former patients, Anna Ward, is found dead, she gets pulled into the investigation being led by Inspector Thomas Volcker and Sergeant Charles Ward. She assists the police in questioning some of the servants Anna worked with, helps Dr. Hanson with the autopsy, and pursues other potential leads, such as helping to identify who gave Anna an expensive diary that she was writing in.

The investigation into Anna’s death reveals several other secrets that potential suspects have been keeping. The reader learns much about the life of a woman physician and medicine in the late 1800s. Unfortunately, at times, it is too much. A lot of technical details are provided about autopsy procedures, medical tools, patient symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Some of this information is necessary to understand Lydia’s background and the world in which she works. However, in some cases, the author goes too deep into too many specifics that aren’t needed to understand the story. For example, the description of the autopsy of the body goes on for almost 20 pages. This kind of long—and somewhat gory--aside bogs down the story and makes the pace feel plodding.

The main characters are appealing, the time period is interesting, and the mystery is well plotted, but I felt that the tendency to dive into minutiae detracted from the primary story, and kept Murder by Degrees from being more compelling.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #SimonBooks for the ARC!

Ritu Mukerji has an interesting twist of characters. I don't know that a series with them would be good, but a standalone is very good.

Oh did I love this one! Victorian murder mystery? ✅ badass female doctor ✅ twists and more twists? ✅ the writing was amazing, I felt like I was there. The characters, and especially Lydia (MC) were well written and I could sympathize with them all. I really hope this isn’t the last we see if Dr. Lydia! Would be a very cool Sherlock Holmes-esque series. 4/5 ⭐️

Thank you Simon & Shuster, and Netgalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.

A young female doctor working her way to try and break into the field dominated by men. Dr. Lydia Weston is a young qualified doctor in the year mid 1800's. As we all know women at the time were not able to be the doctors they wanted to be because it was frowned upon. Not only was Lydia a doctor she also trained the future female doctors plus she helped solve murder cases.

Set in early Philadelphia which has its own history Lydia is teaching at the Women's Medical College, runs their clinic where she connects with many patients. On in particular a young girl named Anna. Lydia sees so much of herself in Anna. Eager to learn, loves medicine but with working as a chambermaid and helping with a sick brother, Anna doesn't have the time to learn like she should. Then Anna disappears and her body washes ashore. Her sister identifies her body and Lydia learns Anna was murdered and didn't take her own life. Is this really Anna and and why was she murdered? Lydia then embarks on the road to try and figure this mystery. Being asked by the Philadelphia police Lydia comes head on with the male brotherhood and a deep dark secret from years ago that can help solve this mystery.

The characters in this story were so well written.Lydia the strong leader of women who fought tooth and nail to accomplish her dream of becoming a doctor. The kind who helps everyone, even though she runs into the wall of male doctors who try to discourage her. The setting was perfect, describing the people, buildings and the era perfectly. The twits and turns in this story had me captivated and I needed to finish the story.

Thank you Ritu Mukerji for such a wonderful book, I truly loved it. Hopefully there will be more adventures for Lydia Weston. I feel she has many more stories to tell with many new characters coming to her for help. Plus I feel the police will need her to help with many more cases.

Thank you Simon and Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC of this wonderful mystery. Looking forward for more from Ms. Mukerji.

The only thing I didn't enjoy of this book was it was very graphic medically and some times the descriptions get a little too wordy. The mystery was fascinating, and I didn't see the twist coming! I would definitely continue to read this historical mystery series.

In nineteenth century Philadelphia, the death of a young chambermaid is not at all what it seems to be.

In the year 1875, the citizens of Philadelphia are putting behind the horrors and privations of the Civil War while looking ahead to the excitement of the coming Centennial Exposition, the World’s Fair that will take place in their city the following year. When the body of a young woman is found on the banks of the Schuykill River, her belongings neatly folded nearby, it is initially presumed that she has taken her own life for reasons unknown. The police, in the persons of Inspector Volker and Sargent Davies, are not completely convinced that this is the case, and turn to a friend of the inspector’s, Dr. Harlan Stanley for his assistance. Dr. Stanley, a progressive-minded physician, is the head of Women’s Medical College of Pennsylvania, and has done some post-mortem examinations for Volker in the past. When the deceased is identified as Anna Ward, who had been a patient of Dr. Stanley’s protégée Dr. Lydia Weston, Dr. Stanley invites Dr. Weston to assist him in assessing the body. Both Volker and Davies are taken aback by the inclusion of a woman in their investigation, but Dr. Weston is quite accustomed to having to prove her expertise and intelligence to men. Women doctors are still regarded with at best suspicion, if not outright hostility. The doctors are able to ascertain through their observations and diagnostic expertise that this was not a suicide, and Volker and Davies continue their investigation. It does appear that Anna had a relationship with a man of means, whom she may have met through either her duties with the family of Edward and Beatrice Curtis, her employers, or through the Blake Trust charity, run by Edward Curtis’s good friend Robert Thornton and his wife Ida. The journal Anna left behind hints at love turned dark, secrets and betrayals. Who wanted to kill Anna, and why? Was she a threat to someone, and if so how? Both the Curtis and Thornton couples have things in their past which they wish would stay there. Can Lydia Weston use her knowledge of both the victim and anatomy to help Volker and Davies solve the murder of a young woman who she thought had shown great promise, without endangering herself? Those who have killed once, after all, find it easier to kill again if needed.
I enjoyed becoming acquainted with the character of Lydia Weston, a young woman of good family whose own circumstances had been reduced after the death of her father. With the support of her mother, she was able to pursue her education despite their limited finances, and as such is able to identify with other women who aspire to more than their beginnings might normally indicate. She has fierce allies in Dr. Stanley and his wife, Dr. Anthea Stanley, but nonetheless has to combat skepticism and suspicion from patients, doctors, and other members of society who do not believe women to be capable of practicing medicine. In other characters within the book we see people who have succeeded in “bettering” themselves, including Sargent Davies and Beatrice Curtis. The question of whether people of different stations in life can truly interact as equals without ensuing problems is woven into the plot as well. The story took various twists and turns, secrets were slowly revealed that put events into a different light, and there were more than a few likely suspect from which to choose. I found it an interesting historical mystery, with the author (herself a physician who studied in the city) providing intriguing bits of Philadelphia’s history as well as that of women in medicine. Readers of the Maisie Dobbs series by Jacqueline Winspear, the Bess Crawford series by Charles Todd, and the Anne Perry mysteries featuring William Monk and Hester Latterly, should absolutely give Murder by Degrees a try. I found it to be well-written, with nicely developed characters who could easily lend themselves to future literary outings, and in the end just a good puzzle to be solved. Many thanks to NetGalley and SImon & Schuster for allowing me access to an advanced reader’s copy of this fine novel by a first-time author.

Oh this was such an amazing book! If you’re a fan of historical mystery fiction then you’ll love this! Great characters & development. Incredibly immersive descriptions. I received this eARC from NetGalley for my unbiased opinion. Thank you!

Murder by Degrees celebrates the accomplishments of women during the nineteenth century and their expertise in also solving crimes using their knowledge. I loved Lydia's detective talent as a result of her medical knowledge. Even though fiction, I enjoyed bring transported back to the earlier years.

I loved this book for so many reasons---beautifully written, well-drawn characters, suspenseful, sense of place and well-researched. It's always exciting to read about strong women, especially about women doctors in the Victorian age and i hope this becomes a series. Could not put this down.

When one of Lydia Weston's patients is murdered, the doctor is overwhelmed by guilt.

Lydia knows she should have done more to help Anna. Lydia battled her way out of poverty and earned her medical credentials just after the Civil War, battling prejudice all the way.

So when the Philadelphia police ask her help solving the murder Lydia shows off her intelligence and her resourcefulness.

Author Ritu Mukerji, a doctor herself, has created a sharp, appealing character. Let's hope she gets another chance to shine.

Murder by Degrees by Ritu Mukerj

Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Pace: 5/5
Suspense: 5/5
Overall Enjoyment: 5/5

Whew, I am so so freaking happy I was allowed to read this book because it really is one of the best I have read in some time. As a Dr. myself I wa drawn to the character of Dr. Lydia Weston and her ability to multi task many things from running a women’s medical college, she also works in the clinic. It is there where she befriends a patient whose name is Anna. Unfortunately, Anna is found deceased and Dr. Weston decides she will investigate the murder. This of course is when the magic occurs. The twists and turns are what kept my attention and the author makes way through the book at a slower pace to help bring the reader closer. I certainly want Ed to know how the story would end and the author leaves bread crumbs behind for the reader. It is in no way predictable though. Just an amazing way of weaving a tale of mystery and suspense in a time when misogyny was the way of medicine. I was so enthralled and intrigued that my life became this book. The characters are well developed, likable, complex and driven for the truth. I was absolutely blown away by the authors writing skills and how they can take a story and make it a puzzle with so many pieces to put together in order to figure out the mystery. I want to read more from this author. It is definitely a 5/5 stars.

Release Date October 17, 2023

Thank you to NetGalley as well as the author and publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.

"Murder by Degrees" by Ritu Mukerji is a gripping and intricately plotted murder mystery that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With its complex characters, atmospheric setting, and skillful storytelling, this book offers a compelling and thrilling reading experience.

One of the book's notable strengths is its well-crafted plot. Mukerji weaves a web of suspense and intrigue, expertly layering clues and twists throughout the narrative. The mystery unfolds gradually, keeping readers engaged and eager to uncover the truth behind the puzzling murders. The author's attention to detail and careful plotting create a sense of anticipation, ensuring that each revelation adds to the overall suspense.

The characters in "Murder by Degrees" are multifaceted and realistic, adding depth to the story. From the determined detective on the case to the various suspects and witnesses, Mukerji breathes life into each character, providing glimpses into their motives, fears, and secrets. The interactions between the characters are skillfully crafted, contributing to the complexity of the mystery and keeping readers guessing about the true culprits.

The book's atmospheric setting also deserves praise. Mukerji paints a vivid picture of the surroundings, whether it's the dark alleyways of the city or the eerie landscapes of the countryside. The rich descriptions and attention to sensory details enhance the reader's immersion in the story, creating a palpable sense of place that adds to the overall tension and suspense.

However, some readers may find that the pacing of the book fluctuates, with certain sections feeling slower compared to others. While this variation can contribute to the overall suspense, it may require patience from readers who prefer a consistently brisk pace.

In conclusion, "Murder by Degrees" is a compelling murder mystery that will captivate fans of the genre. Mukerji's skillful plotting, well-drawn characters, and atmospheric writing create a captivating reading experience. If you enjoy immersive mysteries that keep you guessing until the final page, this book is sure to satisfy your craving for suspense and intrigue.

I am completely hooked on this! I really hope there will be more of these books! This is a great victorian murder mystery. The MFC is a female Dr and Professor. These is so much that could be done with this!! I'm excited to read more!! 5 stars.
I just reviewed Murder by Degrees by Ritu Mukerji. #NetGalley
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I really enjoyed this debut mystery novel from Ritu Mukerji! The story held many twists and turns and kept me guessing throughout, and I really loved the main character of Dr. Lydia Weston as a pioneering doctor of her time in 1875 Philadelphia who assists the police in an investigation of the murder of a patient of hers. At times the medical terminology and descriptions of autopsy procedures threw me off and the story got a bit meandering for me in the middle, but it finished strong and kept me interested the entire time. 4 stars!

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this e-ARC!

I have been enamored of the city of Philadelphia ever since I attended medical school there. I also love mysteries and historical fiction, so when I saw the blur.b for Murder by Degrees, I had to read it.

Written by a physician, Murder by Degrees is an absolutely wonderful book. The main character, Dr. Lydia Weston, teaches at Women’s Medical College. She also runs their clinic where she befriends one of her patients, Anna. When Anna is found murdered, she becomes involved in the investigation.

I just loved Lydia’s character. She’s so well drawn and so real. Her encounter with a chauvinistic male physician was so well written that I couldn’t stop chuckling. Actually, all the characters are well done. The plotting is deft and with lots of twists and turns. Philadelphia in 1875 is well portrayed, and is almost its own character.

I just loved Murder by Degrees, and highly recommend it.

My thanks to Simon and Schuster, and to Netgalley, for providing an ARC of this very enjoyable mystery.

This book immediately draws you in. There are many homages to 1800s murder mysteries, but this one does the genre superbly.

If you like Sherry Thomas, you will love this book.

The only downside is that there aren’t more yet!