When a child is reported dead at the Foundling Hospital where Jemma works, she's terrified that it might be her beloved charge Lucy. It's not, but that doesn't make it any less horrible: a fourteen year old girl is found drowned in a laundry tub. It's clearly murder, and Sebastian is called to investigate.

His superior, Superintendent Lovell urges him to make an arrest very soon: Lovell's career is on the line, and if Sebastian can solve the case quickly, it will shore up Lovell's position within Scotland Yard.

Sebastian begins investigating, asking questions of the completely-unwilling-to-help hospital Matron, who is concerned for her job: the wealthy hospital donors will likely be looking for a scapegoat to fire if the whole matter cannot be closed very soon, regardless of whether it may be a member of the staff involved.

Jemma is eager to find clues, as she's incensed that a child has been murdered, and she is who finds critical clues, pointing to a Russian connection, specifically nobility. Sebastian finds another important clue, also pointing in the same direction, and together, he and Jemma solve the case, with Jemma actually apprehending the perpetrator.

There are significant consequences for Jemma, but one hopes things turn out better for her in the next book, which I'm eager to read. Jemma is a likeable protagonist, and Sebastian, too. He's, for a man of this period, much more open to Jemma's ideas and actions, seeing the capable and tough person that she is.

I like also the way author Irina Shapiro continues to show the fallout from the Crimean war with her characters. Though it did not play as big a part in this book, we still meet a veteran of the war, as well as Sebastian acknowledging that Jemma's experiences as a nurse in the war gave her a wider, and much more realistic, perspective on human behaviour than the typical lady of the time.

On to the next book!

Thank you to Netgalley and to Storm Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.

Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read a second novel by Irina Shapiro. I enjoyed reading this and my attention was kept throughout.

The reader once again was transported to Victorian England and Detective Bell along with Gemma Tate were once again thrown together in a case involving a murdered orphan.

I read this quickly eager to learn the identity of the killer and I was shocked at the conclusion!

*Murder at the Foundling Hospital* is a stunning historical mystery that captivates from the very first page. Set in a dark and atmospheric world of 19th-century London, the story follows Nurse Gemma Tate, whose world is shattered when a young girl from the Foundling Hospital is found murdered. The mystery surrounding the girl's death deepens as Gemma teams up with the determined and enigmatic Inspector Sebastian Bell.

The writing is lush and evocative, bringing the grim and haunting setting of the orphanage to life. Gemma is a strong and empathetic protagonist, whose determination to seek justice for the lost children is both inspiring and heartbreaking. The partnership between her and Sebastian Bell is both thrilling and touching, as they work together to uncover the hospital’s secrets, all while navigating the strict social barriers and hidden truths of the institution.

The inclusion of the mysterious wooden doll and the whispers of a secret romance add a layer of complexity to the plot, and the twists are skillfully executed. Just when you think you’ve pieced it all together, the shocking revelation at the end leaves you breathless. The tension builds to a fever pitch, and the finale is both satisfying and poignant.

*Gemma's story* is not just one of crime and investigation, but also one of deep compassion, uncovering not just a murder, but a long-buried injustice. This novel is a perfect blend of historical detail, thrilling mystery, and rich emotional depth, making it a true page-turner that I couldn’t put down.

For fans of historical mysteries and compelling, multi-layered characters, *Murder at the Foundling Hospital* is a must-read. The suspense, twists, and heartfelt storytelling make it a deserving five-star novel.

Murder at the Foundling Hospital - Book 3 of the Tate & Bell
Series. This has been my favourite so far. I felt we really started to know more and more about Seb and Gemma and start to see their blossoming relationship. The setting of the Foundling Hospital is a great choice as it hones in the story to predominantly one building and its inhabitants.
Great story, wonderful twist

Another fantastic book by Irina Shapiro. The mystery set in Victoria London, 1858, has all of the elements that make you feel like you are there. After a child is found dead the Foundling Hospital, Sebastian and Gemma have to find out who did it. I am looking forward to the continuation of the series.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC for my review.

Irina Shapiro has produced yet another excellent murder mystery. Set in the mid 1800s, a 14 year old girl is drowned in a laundry vat on Christmas Day. Found clutching a small wooden doll, Amanda is discovered in night clothes with one shoe off and one shoe on. Later, a man’s solid gold ring is found sewn into the hem of her day dress. And so begins a search for a killer amongst staff members who had been shut into the Foundling Hospital for the Christmas holiday.

I thoroughly enjoyed "Murder at the Foundling Hospital" by Irina Shapiro. The mystery was, as usual, well crafted, and the depiction of Victorian London was as vivid as ever.

I did miss the dynamic between Sebastian and Gemma. It felt like they were each separately conducting their own investigations and occasionally sharing their findings. Their usual cooperation and 'banter' add a special touch to the story that was missing this time.

The book was just as engaging as the first two and I'm looking forward to the next Tate and Bell Mystery.

Irina Shapiro writes an amazing historical mystery! This mystery series is wonderfully
researched, and she has the atmosphere of the time period perfectly portrayed. Her books truly transport you back to Victorian London. It seems like you are actually there.

In this installment, Gemma assists Sebastian as he investigates the murder of a child at the foundling hospital where Gemma works.Their investigation uncovers dark secrets within the orphanage walls, putting
Gemma's life at risk.

This was another fantastic murder mystery in this series! I love that each of these books
continues to build this relationship between the two main characters as the series goes on. This continues to be one of my favorite series at the moment! It's absolutely fantastic and I can't wait for the next book!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Another gripping, well plotted, and highly entertaining novel in this series. Solid plot, vivid historical background, fleshed characters I was glad to catch up with
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

I enjoyed every minute of this book. The author did such an amazing job with writing the characters and laying out the plot line. I think the characters were so full of complexity, and I thought they were so realistic. I can't wait to read more from this author. I highly recommend this book to others.

Thank you Net Galley ARC and Storm Publishing

Irina Shapiro’s Murder at the Foundling Hospital is a gripping addition to the Tate & Bell Mystery series, offering a thrilling and atmospheric murder investigation set against the backdrop of Victorian London in 1858.

When Nurse Gemma Tate learns that one of the children at the Foundling Hospital has been tragically killed, her initial relief that it isn’t Lucy, a child she holds dear, is quickly replaced by guilt and a fierce determination to uncover the truth. Teaming up with the steadfast Chief Inspector Sebastian Bell, Gemma must navigate the orphanage’s tightly guarded secrets, including the matron’s reluctance to cooperate, as the pair race to prevent further tragedy.

The discovery of a wooden doll in the victim’s hand hints at a chilling mystery, while whispers of a forbidden romance add layers to the intrigue. As clues emerge and danger escalates, the story builds to a tense and shocking climax. Gemma’s courageous yet impulsive actions once again put her in peril, but her tenacity and compassion make her a standout character.

Shapiro’s detailed depiction of Victorian London and the challenges of 19th-century police work adds richness to the narrative. Sebastian’s determination and methodical approach, despite lacking modern investigative tools, make him a compelling lead. The dynamic between Gemma and Sebastian remains a highlight, their partnership underscored by mutual respect and a hint of unspoken affection.

Murder at the Foundling Hospital is a masterfully woven mystery filled with suspense, emotional depth, and unexpected twists. Fans of historical mysteries and the Tate & Bell series will not be disappointed. I eagerly await the next instalment and highly recommend this book to those who enjoy a well-crafted whodunit with strong characters and a vividly realised setting.

Read more at The Secret Book Review.

✨ Publication date: October 21, 2024✨

Murder at the Foundling Hospital is the third book in the Victorian crime/mystery series (Tate and Bell) from Irina Shapiro. I read the first two and was happy to get my hands on the next instalment and it didn’t disappoint!

It’s the day after Christmas and Gemma and Sebastian are both looking forward to the new year in hopes of exploring what’s next for them after they shared a kiss.

Gemma is now a nurse at the Orphan Foundling Hospital and when the call comes that the body of one of the children is found and it’s likely murder, Sebastian and Gemma rush to the hospital.

As the investigation into the death of the young girl continues, Gemma uses her position in the hospital to search for evidence as much as Sebastian is worried she’s putting herself in danger.

Time is running out and Sebastian’s superiors and the Hospital board are eager to close the case even if the murderer hasn’t been found. Gemma puts herself in danger to ensure the person responsible for taking the life of one of her young charges is caught.

Sebastian must race against time to get to Gemma before she is the next body discovered.

Love these two and the historical storylines! I really enjoyed this case and am interested to see where their personal relationship goes. This is a solid 4 star read for me

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

#NetGalley #irinashapiro #murderatthefoundlinghospital

I once again loved getting back to Gemma and Sebastian's adventures with this new murder investigation happening right after book 2. This time again, Gemma is back to be really present and important to the investigation, which was missing for me in book 2, so I'm glad of what she did there.

I really loved how the story went, and once again loved following the investigation from start to end, without easy takes, with all informations we could get. I enjoyed following it and trying to find the culprit myself! I liked the reasonning behind the culprit's motivations, while still being sad it went up to a teenage girl murder, but it was still great and done well.

The epilogue and ending this time is more quiet, and, unless we don't know the title of the next book, we could think this was the end of the series. But here again I loved how important the epilogue is, as it gives us a closing for the current investigation, and launch us on the next one!

This was a fascinating story, very sad but historically accurate. Peoples lives were very hard in those days. A very satisfying conclusion.

This is the third Tate and Bell mystery, Gemma Tate being a nurse and Sebastian Bell being in the more usual mystery-solving job of Police Detective. Nevertheless like most mystery novels that in evolve non-professionals, the murder that occurs is linked to her life first, namely her work within the Foundling Hospital. Irina Shapiro's historical spends quite a lot of time exploring how the Foundling Hospital worked and was different to a standard orphanage, and she is very interested in the processes and management of the hospital and its own internal politics. She isn't so interested in trying to summon up mid-nineteenth-century London sights and sounds, the Foundling Hospital's proximity to King's Cross is barely referenced, and this is very much a book of dingy interiors (the hospital, and various boarding houses). It's a serious mystery, for all of its tinges of slow burn romance between Gemma and Sebastian (mainly thwarted by propriety).

Its serious air also comes from the crime, the murder of a fourteen-year-old girl. It is a locked room mystery writ large, in as much as the hospital was locked to outsiders, so the criminal had to be one of the charges or staff (unless someone else had gained access). The strict regime within the hospital makes the detection process difficult, though not as much as the barriers put forth by the Matron, whose main aim is to ensure the hospital doesn't get any bad publicity, which might jeopardize charitable fundraising. Indeed she seems happier to allow the criminal to go free to avoid bad publicity, with the thought that if it was a particular crime against the person, the criminal is unlikely to commit another crime. Bell also has complications with the Met's office politics, requiring patronage. It creates a book where the crime is often challenged for importance by the bureaucracy they have to work around. The murder investigation itself is well balanced if anything suffering from a shortage of viable candidates, but with well flagged clues which made the little bit of action at the end satisfying. If you are reading for the romance or character development the slow pace in that area might be frustrating, but as a well structured period mystery I had no complaints.

Irina Shapiro is the queen of Victorian detective mysteries. Bell and Tate combine forcing in solving the murder of a girl living at the foundling hospital.
"Murder at the Foundling Hospital" kept me guessing until about 90 percent through.
Set in Victorian London, the poverty of orphans and those without a supportive husband or family, see them living or working at such an establishment as a foundling hospital, which is funded by wealthy benefactors.
Gemma Tate works at the hospital as a nurse. Sebastian Bell is a detective. They are a great team...agile minds and not afraid of pushing boundaries of personal safety and lines of questioning. With a hint of growing love bubbling away underneath.
A dark story...a young person's death, an austere setting and reminders of a Russian connection to the terrible Crimean war. Gemma takes a bigger role in this book....she is confident in herself and her instincts. Sebastian comes across as more fragile....struggling with his demons and battling a feisty matron anxious about the scrutiny from affluent benefactors and making solving the murder differcult for Sebastian.
The third book in the Tate and Bell Mystery series, I have read "Murder at Traitors Gate", and am a fan.
Thanks you NetGalley, Storm Publishing and Irina Shapiro for my copy.

Murder at the Foundling Hospital was the third book in the Tate and Bell Mystery series. I am enjoying this series so much. The characters of DI Sebastian Bell and Gemma Tate have come to feel like old friends. I have come to expect Gemma’s involvement in the cases that Sebastian has been assigned despite Sebastian’s efforts to keep her out of them for her safety. Murder at Foundling Hospital was perhaps my favorite book in this series so far. I really enjoyed the setting of the hospital and some of the new characters that were introduced in this book and I really like the time period of the late 1800’s when it takes place. Although the Matron of the Foundling Hospital ground on my nerves, she left a lasting impression. Irina Shapiro once again kept the pace just right and threw in just enough twists and turns to keep me guessing until the very end. Murder at the Foundling Hospital can be read as stand-alone book but I suggest reading the books in order. It has been nice to observe the progression the characters have made from the beginning of this series to now and how their relationships have evolved over the course of the series. I highly recommend Murder at the Foundling Hospital by Irina Shapiro if you enjoy a good mystery.

Thank you to Storm Publishing for allowing me to read the digital version of Murder at the Foundling Hospital by Irina Shapiro through Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.

Content warning: murder of a minor, drowning, drugging, child abandonment

Shapiro wastes no time kicking the plot off in this third installment of the Tate and Bell Mystery series as it opens with Gemma finding out there's been a murder at her work. While I was hoping for a little more on the Gemma and Sebastian having feelings for each other front, I did like that both characters in this book are starting to really think about what they mean to each other and what that could look like moving forward. Towards the end of the novel there is a comment about Gemma's brother being dead for only 4 months which caught me by surprise... this series really does take place in a very short time span and that's easy to forget one book from the other.

I enjoyed the mystery and how it didn't play out exactly how I had guessed. In this book Shapiro gives readers a look at a different aspect of Victorian society. I do love that Shapiro has created a bit of a humanitarian and potential feminist of his times in Sebastian.

Once again a solid historical mystery and I look forward to the next novel to see what Gemma and Sebastian get up to next. Perhaps the situation Gemma finds herself in at the end of the novel will lend more flexibility for her to help Sebastian on future cases?

Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley and Storm Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

An delightful novel set in Victorian London centred around a death at a foundling hospital. Follows the investigation from a nurses view who works at the hospital and her detective friend. Crosses over into a bit of a love story too between the two, but due to her recent widow status they cannot be seen to take things further.

Even though its the third story in a series it can be read as a standalone novel.

I received this book from netgalley in return for a honest review.

A really good story which can be read as a standalone book. Cleverly written as it takes you right back to the past. A twisty story which had me gripped. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.