I almost skipped this book because there was a seance in it, but I'm glad I didn't. There was so much more to the story and also another case that she worked on, plus her brother's predicament. ( )

Another librarian turned me on to this series. This was an enjoyable book to which to listen while sewing. Some of the scenes were predictable, but then ending was a complete surprise. I really enjoy hearing about the locations the author describes.

I am enthralled with this series set in San Francisco during the 1890's. The story begins on a stormy night at the Cliff House, a San Francisco legend built in 1863. Sarah Woolson and her friend, Robert Campbell, are guests of a séance being conducted by a Russian clairvoyant. The raging storm extinguishes the candles, and during this period of blackness, Darien Moss, a mean spirited reporter is strangled. Sarah jumps into the investigation, but not soon enough, as another member of the séance is strangled. Mayhem unfolds, with more murders, with Sarah's brother Frederick arrested, with an attempt on Sarah's life, and with Sarah's handling of a divorce and child custody case. Sarah's semi romantic interest from the previous book, Pierce Godfrey, receives further mention in this installment. Will Pierce return to San Francisco for Sarah? According to correspondence from Pierce, he is planning a return during the holidays. The story points to the corruption in government and in the police department, and to the plight of women. I would love to return to San Francisco and visit the Cliff House after reading this story. ( )