ARC Review – A Modern Mystery with Classic Sherlockian Vibes!** ★★★★☆

*A Murderous Business* feels like stepping into a modern-day Sherlock Holmes mystery, and I was *here for it*. Cathy Pegau masterfully weaves together a sharp-witted protagonist, intricate clues, and an atmosphere brimming with tension and intrigue. From the first page, you can sense that every detail matters, every conversation holds weight, and the mystery is far more complex than it first appears.

What truly sets this book apart is how methodical and observant the protagonist is—analyzing details, reading between the lines, and piecing together a puzzle that keeps both the characters *and* the reader on edge. The deductive reasoning, the suspense, and the slow unraveling of secrets all have that classic Holmesian feel, but with a fresh, modern twist.

The only reason I’m holding back from a full five stars is that some moments felt a bit rushed—certain plot threads could have used just a little more time to develop. But overall, this was an engaging, intelligent mystery that will keep you thinking until the very last page.

If you love classic detective stories with a modern edge, *A Murderous Business* is definitely worth picking up. Can’t wait to see what Cathy Pegau does next!

A Murderous Business by Cathy Pegau has an intriguing premise, but the execution falls flat with a slow-moving plot and underdeveloped characters. While the mystery has potential, the pacing drags, making it hard to stay engaged. Unfortunately, the predictable twists and lack of tension make this a forgettable read.

A historical thriller is a big undertaking. I loved the plot and storyline Pegau created. I wish there had been more depth on the FMCs, Margot and Rett. There was a lot left on the table. Still, the last few chapters were thrilling and buttoned up the loose ends, which is a preference of mine. Unsolved crimes are the death of me!

I hope Pegau takes another stab at this genre! If you need a quick read I recommend!

I think the premise and plot of this story are very good. I tend to be character driven and I didn't understand how certain characters moved the plot along. I know the author is capable of communicating a feeling for a character because I loathed Charley Meade almost immediately. But I never could a real grasp of Margot. And Randolph and Ms Gilroy, I had nothing to go on. I did like Shiloh. So while it was okay, I felt it could have been so much better.

This book was a quick, easy read. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a female led cast solving a mystery. I had a hard time connecting with the characters and found the background of the food canning industry unexciting.

Easy ready. I really enjoyed the time period- post titanic but pre WW1. Not one I read about very often. I also enjoyed the strong female characters and their stories. There’s a nod to LGBTQ, but it is not overtly sexual so if that’s not someone’s jam, I’d still recommend the book. There was a twist I did NOT see coming. Not life changing but very glad I read it. Would recommend to any historical fiction reader.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book.

A story full of mysteries and characters. I was fascinated by the imposing role of the woman in this story, despite the fact that the plot takes place in a time when women were not valued.

This was such a good book. I loved the story and the writing so much. The characters were great and the story flowed smoothly. Will definitely read more books by this author in the future.

A cozy, queer mystery about two women trying to be successful in a man's world.

Margot has recently inherited her father's canning business. She is facing constant scrutiny that she is not up to the task solely based on her gender. When she receives a note from a former employee that there may be a cover-up of dangerous business tactics afoot, she has to discreetly hire a PI to look into the claims and determine their validity.

Rett has been helping her father's PI business for years. He needs to retire, but he doesn't think his daughter is capable of continuing the family business and wants her to get married and settle down. Margot's case is her chance to prove that she is ready to handle client matters on her own and prove her father wrong.

These two women team up on an investigation that leads them all over New York. Throw in some light breaking & entering, some magician's tricks, and some mild impersonation and you have a true case!

Entertaining and quick read! Would read more if this becomes a series.