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A Rip Through Time    by Kelley Armstrong Amazon.com order for
Rip Through Time
by Kelley Armstrong
Order:  USA  Can
Minotaur, 2022 (2022)
Hardcover, CD, e-Book
* *   Reviewed by Hilary Williamson

Though I'm a longtime fan of Kelley Armstrong's varied adult and YA fantasy series and mysteries, I found this new debut a little harder to get into. In it, the author launches modern homicide detective Mallory Atkinson back in time to Victorian Scotland - in the body of housemaid Catriona Mitchell, after they are both strangled in the same spot.

It's quite an adjustment to find herself in 1869 Edinburgh, working in the home of undertaker/medical examiner Dr. Duncan Gray, who lives with his widowed sister Isla. Their housekeeper, Mrs. Wallace, is not fond of Catriona, who has been prone to petty theft. Mallory gradually adjusts to her new life and situation, while trying to find out how she might get back to her own time.

It turns out to be harder than expected. Meanwhile, the serial killer is still active in Edinburgh and Mallory/Catriona gets pulled into the investigation. Eventually she's forced to reveal who she really is to Isla, and surprisingly convinces her that she's from the future. They continue digging together.

Finally, Mallory learns of another imposter in 1869 Edinburgh, and barely survives an encounter with him. This first episode ends with further revelations, leaving readers anxious to learn what comes next.

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