This continues to be such an enjoyable series, with well thought out mysteries and a wonderful pair of protagonists.

Will Parker is just the absolute best, and the set-up for this created an interesting situation that forces Will to take the lead and work on her own with Lillian Pentecost, let’s say, otherwise occupied.

I always enjoy a mystery where the detective becomes the suspect, and this was a clever way to do that, and it didn’t trade on the typical methods writers employ for this. While the solve is a bit convoluted for my taste, it does make sense, and the real fun of these is in the getting there. Spotswood delivers on that count as usual, and continues to keep this pair of lovable sleuths intriguing and a delight to spend time with.

This fifth entry in the Pentecost and Parker series begins with celebrated, hated, envied, feared, private investigator Lillian Pentecost on her way to the Women’s House of Detention at 6th Avenue near West 9th Street in New York City, under arrest for a murder that she surely did not commit.

Not that either the NYPD or the criminal justice system can see their way to that conclusion – at least not yet. The frame around Pentecost fits much too well, and there are too many people in the NYPD who have been itching to see this successful, intelligent woman fall. Of course the press is having a literal field day because everyone loves a scandal, and people especially love seeing the high and mighty cut down to size.

Pentecost’s right-hand woman, Willowjean Parker, comes back from her first-ever vacation to find her boss in handcuffs, their property being ransacked, and cops and reporters besieging the place. It seems as if the entire city wants a piece of Lillian Pentecost – only because they do.

This is the job that Will Parker has been training for, to become the lead investigator of Pentecost and Parker Investigations. That has been inevitable from the very first, marvelous book in this series, Fortune Favors the Dead, when Pentecost took Parker on as her assistant. Not because she wanted an assistant, but because Lillian Pentecost had been recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and she knew that her time as the lead investigator of her own agency was inevitably running out.

Now that it has, possibly temporarily but certainly abruptly, while Pentecost is behind bars and bail has been denied, it’s up to Will to ask herself what Lillian Pentecost would do – and do it. No matter how high the deck is stacked against them both. Pentecost is depending on her, and Willowjean Parker will not be found wanting. Whatever it takes.

Escape Rating A: The entire Pentecost and Parker series has been an edge-of-the-seat thrill ride from the very beginning in Fortune Favors the Dead, through Murder Under Her Skin, Secrets Typed in Blood, Murder Crossed her Mind and now this latest page-turner, Dead in the Frame.

What initially drew me into this series was its homage to a classic mystery series that isn’t talked about much anymore, and that’s the Nero Wolfe series by Rex Stout. A series which I fully admit probably doesn’t wear well in the 21st century for all sorts of reasons.

But the concept of the Wolfe series was a partnership between an older detective who mostly refuses to leave his New York City brownstone and his younger assistant who does all the legwork and brings the case back to his boss. In the case of Pentecost and Parker, as the series began Pentecost was aware that she SHOULD be sticking to her brownstone, but can’t make herself do it as much as her doctor would prefer.

On the one hand, Pentecost and Parker are very much in the style of the noir fiction of the 1930s and 1940s, and Parker’s first-person chronicles of the cases resembles Wolfe’s junior partner Archie Goodwin in style and often substance. Howsomever, the lens through which Parker sees the world is VERY different from Goodwin’s. Parker is both female and queer, and grew up in as far over the wrong side of the tracks as possible as she literally ran away and joined the circus.

(If you’ve enjoyed Pentecost and Parker and you’re curious about their antecedents, the first book in the Nero Wolfe series is Fer-de-Lance. If you’re looking for a readalike for Pentecost and Parker, take a look at Lavender House by Lev A.C. Rosen.)

This particular entry in the series does a fantastic job of straddling the line between Parker’s now and ours, speaking both to the case itself and the reasons for it while at the same time using that vehicle to highlight issues that are very much a part of our present. Including, but very much not limited to, the way that Pentecost is tried in the press LONG before her actual trial because there are just so many powers-that-be that can’t bear to see a woman be independent, successful and show them up when they deserve it.

After taking a couple of days to think about this one, I think that what’s at the heart of this entry in the story is the issue of inevitability and the human response to knowing that an ending is coming. In a way, it’s all about, to paraphrase the poet Dylan Thomas, not going gently into that good night, and the form that the rage against the dying of the light takes. It’s about the conflict between revenge being a dish best served as cold as, and from, the grave versus “I expect to pass through this world but once; any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any fellow-creature, let me do it now; let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

All of that may seem a bit on the philosophical side, but it’s in there. And so is an absolutely cracking good mystery that sends both of our detectives through walks in the valley of the shadow of death and brings the inevitable changes that Pentecost has been staving off for years much closer much faster than her early hopes would have had it.

I have to say that the parts of this story where Pentecost is in the Women’s House of Detention are harrowing and also feel much too real – as the House of D most certainly was. Her treatment while incarcerated was entirely too typical of the treatment of prisoners in that nightmare of a place, and we go through that nightmare with her and feel her get both scared and scarred by it.

I was utterly caught up in the mystery, as I have been with every single one of their cases so far. I knew Pentecost was innocent but couldn’t see how she was going to get out from under – and for the longest time neither did she or Parker and it ratcheted the tension up to 11 the entire way.

The one thing that kept niggling at me is probably a result of my 21st century perspective having a disconnect with her post WW2 circumstances. I certainly understand why she hated the victim, and vice versa. But the information he was holding over Pentecost wasn’t about her, it was about her parents. I understand why no one would want that history dug up, but not why it was such a potentially huge scandal for Pentecost herself. Whatever the truth of that old matter, she herself can’t possibly be guilty of any of it as she was a child at the time. I expect to see that mess resolved, or at least as resolved as the dead past can be, in the next book in this series. Because that’s the story that Lillian Pentecost herself promised to work on next!

In this fifth series volume, set in 1947 New York, Lillian Pentecost, lead investigator at Pentecost and Parker Investigations, attends the aptly named Black Museum Club, a gruesome collection of the macabre and grotesque, owned by Lillian’s nemesis, millionaire Jessup Quincannon. The soiree is said to include a reveal-all of Lillian’s past, and that cannot happen. Alone in Quincannon’s elevator when shots ring out, Lillian is found moments later standing over the body. The bullet matches her gun (miraculously back in a drawer in her brownstone). Lillian is arrested and hauled off to jail. It seems cut and dried. Even her loyal assistant, Willowjean “Will” Parker, reluctantly considers Occam’s Razor. Then a police officer secretly admits to framing Ms. Pentecost, and blackmails Will into helping counteract a suicide ruling in his wife’s death. With her intrepid employer stuck in the Women’s House of Detention, suffering a daily downturn in her health (MS), Will presents a more vulnerable side than in previous novels. She’s a forthright interviewer and a courageous investigator, always knowing her famous mentor would be waiting when she reported in. Now the brownstone echoes with loss, and Will must figure out how to untangle the knot without her employer’s insightful deductions.

This series bears similarities to Martin Edwards’ Rachel Savernake mysteries featuring a gifted Holmesian female detective. Spotswood explores complex plots intertwining several stories, and his wry humour doesn’t hurt! His novels are standalones, aided by a character index (more of Quincannon’s fashion-plate bodyguard, Alathea, please) which includes pertinent details of a recurring character’s place in the previous and current book. This story is seemingly heading the series in a different direction, as can be gleaned from the denouement. Newcomers to the series might benefit from a wider view via one or two of the previous novels. I’m all in for book six.

Will Parker and Lillian Pentecost return! Lillian is in big trouble. She has been feuding with Jessup Quincannon for years, and his most recent threat to publicize unpleasant facts about her mother's death have raised the stakes. But when Quincannon is found dead in his study, with Pentecost seen recently leaving, she is "in the frame" for his murder. Will Parker is on her own to prove that Pentecost is innocent, and someone else is responsible.

This series is just so much fun. Will, her girlfriend Holly, and their friends and associates make a great team. The setting in mid-century New York provides for some of the tension in the stories, as the period was notoriously unfriendly to professional women and gays.

And now for the wait for the next book in the series!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A good and nicely twisty addition to the series that sees Will frantically trying to free Lillian from the House of Detention where she's awaiting trial for the murder of Jessup Quincannon. Those who have been following along know that Will and Lillian (Ms Pentecost) are ace crime solvers who do their work with the assistance of a unique (for 1947) crew of people. It's these characters that make the series stand out- not just Will and Lillian but Helen, Lillian's cell mate, Jessup's bodyguard, Lillian's father, their attorneys and so on. Spotswood never panders with these characters-it's always subtle (well, except for Will's feelings for Helen). This mystery, which sees Will working more or less on her own circles around Quincannon's threat to reveal the truth about Lillian's mother. She swears that he was dead when she walked in but there isn't any way in or out of the room and gun shots were heard. Hmm. This is a very clever one I never saw coming. I'm not certain that new readers who don't know the back story will appreciate this as much as fans (which I am) but it's a darn good read. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. No spoilers from me.

Thanks to @Netgalley and DoubleDay books for this DRC copy.

This is the 5ᵗʰ book in the Pentecost and Parker series & It might just be the best one yet!!!

Spoilers for the previous books are ahead. Be warned. When Jessup Quincannon is found dead with Lillian Pentecost fleeing the scene, Detective Staples doesn't waste a second slapping her in cuffs and charging her with murder.

Will is caught off guard and is scrambling to try to catch up. When Ms. P gets locked in the Women's House of detention things go from bad to worse. A blackmailer shows up with a fragile hope but at a cost.

I love the way queerness is worked through these books and the amount of amazing women is delightful. The tension is done so well and I was still guessing about how it would turn out right up till the reveal!

I really hope we get to see more about Val once he gets out of Bedford! Keep these stories coming! I can't get enough!

I didn't realize this was part of a series, but can be enjoyed as a stand alone. However, I will go back and read the others! Dead in the Frame, the fifth in the Pentecost and Parker historical mysteries series. Prominent private detective Lillian is accused of murder, Will Parker is her lead investigator and is tasked with finding out who actually is the murderer to clear Lillian's name.


I'd like to read more of this series as I'm sure there has been character growth throughout the other four books. Supporting and incidental characters are also brought to life in an interesting and memorable way. Great time!

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

I have been impatiently awaiting this addition to what is at this point one of my most beloved series and this book did not disappoint. I never know where Parker and Pentecost will go in these books and this was no exception. Because of the cliffhanger from the last book, this story wasted no time putting us right in the middle of a mystery that seemed to be the most difficult case yet and with Pentecost & Parker not able to participate as the team we are used to. I think this shows how well Spotswood knows what he's doing because the pace, tone, and general quality of the story is no different than the previous ones despite a very basic foundation of the books (the partnership) being completely different.

I am always leery of when men write women, especially queer women, but every book in this series shows me again and again that Spotswood knows what he's doing - both in regards in research for the time and in understanding a kaleidoscope of marginalized lives. The depiction of not just the queer life of Will in the 1940s New York, but in this case the experience of Lillian Pentecost as a female prisoner (and one with a chronic illness) doesn't shy away from the horrors (major and minor) that would be realistic for that time, but doesn't make it into their entire story. Even the inclusion and depiction of a trans man in a female jail is handled so well with the deft hand of not looking away from the violence that they would deal with, but also showing the full picture of their character including the humor and joy. It's refreshing to see a diverse cast of characters in a historical novel and to have them be full of nuanced characters rather than one note tragic side characters.

I hope that there are more to come because I am not ready to leave Parker & Pentecost any time soon.

Those who follow the Pentecost and Parker series are in for a real treat with the newest entry in the series. The action starts when Will returns home from a three week vacation to find Lillian being led out of the house by the police. Lillian is accused of murdering her long time nemesis, Jessup Quincannon. The evidence is stacked against her and it's up to Will to find out the truth and prove her employer and mentor innocent. It's not an easy task. Lillian's dislike of Quincannon is well known and his threat to reveal secrets from her past provide a viable motive ; in addition, forensics identify the gun as belonging to Lillian. Prison isn't an ideal place for anyone, but for Lillian, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, it's dangerous in more ways than one. With time running out, Will must garner all she's learned from Lillian to find the truth. This latest Pentecost & Parker is absolutely spectacular - combining a great mystery, fast-moving plot and great characters - this is the best so far!

Will (Willowjean) Parker witnesses her boss, Lillian Pentecost, being led from her brownstone (home and place of business) by a police officer. Lillian is accused of murdering Jessup Quincannon. I assume Lillian Pentecost is innocent and read on to see how she wins her freedom.

The first chapter of the book grabs me. Having a main character hauled away by the police is gripping. I like the summary of characters at the beginning of the book. It not only acts as a good reference to return to while reading the novel, but also gives enough information to begin speculating about the plot. Whenever I read a book in this series, I am reminded of Nero Wolfe and Archie Goodwin, except with two women. I can’t always relate to Will’s backstory, but I do enjoy the mysteries and how the characters work together to solve them. Will is a quirky character and narrates an interesting story, and I appreciate the addition of Lillian Pentecost’s journal entries. I look forward to reading future books in the series. Thank you, Doubleday Books and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy.

Thank you to Doubleday and NetGalley for an advance readers copy of this book.

This fifth outing for Detective Lillian Pentecost and her assistant, Willowjean (Will) Parker is another clever mystery set in 1947 New York City. Will’s wisecracking, snappy sentences tell the tale, with colorful characters old and new.

This time it is Ms. Pentecost who is framed for murder, and her journal entries from the Women’s House of Detention form a counterpoint to Will’s narrative.

This series continues to give voice to people not typically recognized in their day – and still fighting to be in ours: bisexual, transgender women, and those with disabilities. (Ms. Pentecost has multiple sclerosis.) They face different challenges and often violence, but they are accepted and supported by those around them. Also, interesting issues are raised around good and evil, and how one can become engaged with problems rather than the people experiencing them.

However, I found this book less engaging than earlier ones. Some characters seemed gross as well as grotesque, Will’s wisecracking seemed a little forced, and the brief appearance by a character from an earlier story seemed to have no reason, except to extend the pages. Still, fans of this series should enjoy this next hardboiled encounter with smart, determined women.

Detective Willowjean Parker's boss is booked for murder and the case against Lillian Pentecost looks airtight.

The bullet in the victim matches Pentecost's gun. She was the only one in the room when it happened and she had threatened to kill the victim.

Nero Award winner Stephen Spotswood leaves Archie Goodwin in the dust in book five of the Pentecost and Parker series. The gay girl who ran off and joined the circus has matured into a confident investigator.

Spotswood has done it again, creating another great addition to the Pentecost and Parker series. Lillian Pentecost has been imprisoned in the infamous Women's House of Detention in New York. Her MS is flaring without adequate rest and nutrition, she has a guard determined to make her life a living hell, and there seems to be no way for her to be released as the judge denied her bail. And why is she awaiting trial? It seems she attended an event and Jessup Quincannon, true crime artifact collector and owner of a very macabre museum, winds up dead. Pentecost is arrested and charged with his murder.

It falls on Will, Lillian's assistant, to find the answers and the real killer and there is no time to waste. Many people could have done it as Quincannon was not well-liked. People who do agree to talk are not telling Will the whole story, while others are dead or relocated and out of reach. Will finds herself working day and night to find the person or person who might have the answers she needs. Meanwhile, even in jail, Lillian Pentecost is concerned with the rights of other women, as she strives to help her trans cellmate.

The story never drags - prepare to read this one start to finish.

As an afterword, Mr. Spotswood addresses the rights of women who find themselves in the justice system.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

Stephen Spotswood’s latest installment in the Pentecost and Parker series, Dead in the Frame, is a gripping and atmospheric mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Set in the bustling and shadowy streets of 1947 New York City, this novel delivers a compelling blend of suspense, historical detail, and character-driven storytelling.

The story begins with the shocking murder of wealthy financier Jessup Quincannon, a man known for his macabre fascination with crime.

The twist? Famed detective Lillian Pentecost is arrested for the murder, with seemingly irrefutable evidence pointing to her guilt. However, her loyal assistant, Willowjean “Will” Parker, is convinced of her innocence and embarks on a desperate quest to uncover the real killer.

Spotswood excels in character development, particularly with his protagonists. Lillian Pentecost, despite her incarceration and deteriorating health, remains a formidable presence. Her resilience and sharp intellect shine through, even from behind bars. Will Parker, on the other hand, is a dynamic and resourceful investigator whose determination to clear her mentor’s name drives the plot forward.

The author’s writing is vivid and evocative, painting a rich picture of post-war New York. Spotswood’s attention to historical detail immerses readers in the era, while his crisp dialogue and tight pacing ensure the story never loses momentum.

Dead in the Frame explores themes of loyalty, justice, and the lengths one will go to protect those they care about. It also delves into the darker aspects of human nature and the corrupting influence of power and obsession.

Overall, Dead in the Frame is a standout addition to the Pentecost and Parker series. Stephen Spotswood has crafted a masterful mystery that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Fans of historical mysteries and detective fiction will find much to enjoy in this book. While the plot’s complexity occasionally slows the pacing, the richly drawn characters and intricate storyline make it a highly rewarding read.

As always, a great story! Lillian Pentecost has been arrested for the murder of her nemesis and it's up to Will to save her. To really appreciate the story, I recommend starting at the beginning.

"Dead in the Frame" is another strong title in this series. The characters and the motivation for the central crime in this book have developed thoughout the series, To fully enjoy this particular title, I would recomment to my readers that they start the series from the beginning. "Dead in the Frame" is not a stand alone.

Will Parker returns from vacation to find that her boss and mentor, Lillian Pentecost, has been arrested for murder. And it looks really bad. There was bad blood. And, after receiving a late invitation to a party, Lillian had approached her arch enemy in his study. It didn't end well. Now Lillian is incarcerated in one of the worst women's detention facilities in the world. And one of the guards is bent on revenge.

Will has to find out who actually committed the murder. And, with Lillian's deteriorating health, she needs to do it quickly. She enlists a group of loyal helpers. But things aren't going well. Can Will solve the murder? Can Lillian help her out from behind bars?

This award-winning series is always a pleasure to read. The characters are fun. The action is lively. The dialogue is crisp and witty. I strongly recommend this book for all mystery readers.

This strong historical fiction mystery series shows no signs of slowing down! Picking up exactly at the blockbuster moment the previous book left off, our intrepid Will must prove the innocence of her boss Lillian Pentecost - while she's locked up in a notorious women's prison and unable to help. The multitude of threads and complications all come together so well. One of my favorite series!

This is one of my absolute favorite series, and I cannot wait to get my hands (ears?) on the audiobook.

This was another cleverly plotted, fast paced, intriguing mystery from Spotswood. Despite the many characters, they were fleshed out enough for the reader to keep track and differentiate. The plot was fresh, and I enjoyed hearing from Lillian through her journaling and meeting her father. I was also glad to see Holly back! 5/5

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book. I read many mystery series and this is one of my favorites. Pentecost and Parker are unlike any other detective duo and I found it fascinating how the author brought a whole new spin to this series. Without giving away too much, the fresh perspective in this installment was fun and I can't wait to see what the ladies and their friends have in store for the next book.