Staff Pick
Emma Donoghue's meticulously researched story of 1870s San Francisco is a perfectly realized murder mystery, but with a definite literary bent. Prostitutes, frog catchers, madams, gamblers, and "baby farms" all play an integral part here. What is so rewarding about this story are the characters; Donoghue created them from real-life people, based on sketchy references and slim information. Frog-catcher Jenny Bonnet and prostitute Blanche Beunon are two women you want to know. Trust me! Recommended By Dianah H., Powells.com