At a glance
An Untimely Frost
Historical Mystery
An Untimely Frost
Book 1 of the Lilly Long Mysteries series
288 pages · First published 2016
In 1881 Chicago, twenty-two-year-old actress Lilly Long has spent most of her life onstage, but discovering that her husband married her for her money leaves her determined to begin again. Hoping to protect other women from the kind of betrayal she suffered, she persuades the Pinkerton Detective Agency to give her a chance, using her talent for acting and disguise to enter a profession rarely open to women. Her first assignment takes her to Vandalia, Illinois, where a pastor has disappeared along with his family and church funds, and the townspeople seem determined to keep their secrets. As Lilly uncovers disturbing clues and realizes someone is watching her, she must rely on her wits and theatrical skills to survive an investigation far more dangerous than she expected. This atmospheric historical mystery is especially suited to a rainy afternoon, a crisp autumn evening, or any time you're in the mood for a clever heroine, Victorian intrigue, and a puzzle with dark secrets beneath the surface.
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No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
Marital deception, financial exploitation, and threatening behavior toward women; physical violence and intimidation; murder and criminal investigation; the traumatic loss of a parent; stalking, threats to the heroine's safety, and disturbing secrets involving a missing family; sexism and restrictions on women's legal and professional independence in the nineteenth century.
Alcohol-Free Pour
Frost & Honey Tea
Fragrant orange, cloves, and honey bring a welcome touch of warmth to Lilly's chilling first investigation and the secrets waiting beneath a quiet Illinois town.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Steep the tea with cloves. Stir in honey and add the orange slice before serving.
- Garnish: Orange slice.
- Glassware: Mug.
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Mug ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Thornfield Toddy
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
A warming blend of whiskey, black tea, and honey suits an evening of Victorian intrigue, where Lilly must look beneath polished appearances to uncover dangerous truths.
What you'll need
- 6 oz hot black tea ↗
- 1 1/2 oz whiskey
- 1 tbsp honey ↗
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice ↗
Shop the spirits 21+Search Total Wine for Whiskey · 21+ ↗
How to mix it
- Add whiskey, honey, and lemon juice to a warmed mug. Top with hot black tea and stir.
- Garnish: Lemon wheel.
- Glassware: Mug.
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