Except the Dying    by Maureen Jennings Order:  USA  Can Harper, 1999 (1997) Hardcover, Paperback Read an Excerpt      Reviewed by G. Hall Except the Dying is the first in a well-written new historical mystery series by Canadian author Maureen Jennings. While many mystery writers eventually develop all the skills needed in plotting, characterization and creating settings, Jennings already displays these abilities in this exceptional debut novel. So it was not suprising that it was nominated for an Anthony for Best First Mystery. The book is set in 1890's Toronto, vastly different from today's lively, cosmopolitan city. In 1895, Toronto was just recovering from hard economic times and full of strong class and ethnic divisions. The murder victim is young French-Canadian Thérèse Laporte, discovered frozen to death in the wintry streets at the novel's beginning. Detective William Murdoch is in charge of the investigation and soon discovers that her death is more than the simple mishap of a poor pregnant maid who has run away from the affluent house where she was employed. Except the Dying shows slices of life in the different classes of turn of the century Toronto, from the privileged homes of doctors and businessmen, to the tough lives of young boys selling newspapers and living on the streets, to prostitutes eking out a living (most people are definitely not living quaint lives in picturesque earlier days). It also shows a time when those with English and Protestant backgrounds ruled and everyone else was considered inferior. Even Murdoch, a Roman Catholic, is considered slightly questionable. Murdoch is a well-drawn and appealing character. A bachelor, still mourning the loss of his fiancée to typhoid two years earlier, he is trying to move on with life and takes ballroom dancing in an attempt to meet new young women. He also struggles with the bureaucracy of the police force and a contemptuous and incompetent superior. As Murdoch investigates Thérèse's murder he discovers that the household of Dr. Rhodes (where she worked) is full of secrets. Shortly after the first death, a prostitute (who lived in the street where Thérèse's body was found and may have been a witness) is also murdered. Murdoch must unravel a complex series of relationships to solve the mystery. He is aided by several nicely developed helpers including his landlord, a local butcher and an old friend from his days as a logger, who is now the steward in a fancy men's club. While the plot is a bit complex, all the loose ends are eventually tied together into a very rewarding tale. In addition there is the promise of romance for the lonely Murdoch. Though I read many mysteries, I found myself unusually drawn to this book, thinking about it and wanting to get back to it when busy with other activities. Fortunately Jennings has now written Under the Dragon's Tail, so there is another one to read. 2nd Review by Mary Ann Smyth: Except the Dying was an Anthony Award Nominee for Best First Novel. I can understand why – but don't know why it didn't take first place. What a good book. I don't know if Maureen Jennings wrote anything after this first one, but if she did, I shall find it and read it. This is an excellent tale with action that rolls along at the pace of the horses and carriages portrayed. The story takes place in Victorian Toronto. The dark and misty winter streets rise out of the gloom to create the ambience. Solving the death of a young housemaid falls to Detective William Murdoch. It seems everyone he interviews has something to hide. But does any of it have any bearing on the mystery of the young girl's murder? Murdoch questions nobby homeowners as well as the local ladies of the night. A stable boy has secrets as well as a well-known doctor. His wife is pushed to the limits, but is that related in any way to the poor girl's demise? When a second death occurs, that of a prostitute, Murdoch is sure he is on the right track but will he be quick enough to save another life? The denouement will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book has a good plot, is well written with strong characters. Toronto of long ago comes alive with Jennings' words so wonderfully used. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews