In the Dead of Winter

Myrl Adler Norton was, by all accounts, one of the most remarkable women of the twentieth century. The daughter of the acclaimed opera singer Irene Adler, she was a respected professor of logic at Smith College as well as one of the most famous consulting detectives of all time. The books of her exploits, written by her lifelong friend and confidante Faye Martin Tullis, are among the most popular in the history of detective literature. Now, with this previously undiscovered manuscript, the true story behind the meeting of these two friends and their first case comes to light. In 1918, while a student at Smith College, Faye first encountered Myrl, an enigmatic figure with an interesting past. When a local actress is found dead amid bizarre circumstances, Myrl takes an interest in the murder, and the two travel to Brattleboro, Vermont, to investigate. There they uncover a twisted conspiracy, one far more dangerous than simple murder - and learn the truth about Myrl's real father, the world's most famous consulting detective. 'The Great Detective as a woman? Yes, with all the quirks, foibles, and misanthropy, all the genius, and all the darkness that runs through that remarkable mind. I look forward to more of Myrl Adler and her faithful Watson.' (Laurie R.King) 'Abby Pen Baker successfully creates a new world where a young woman detective embodies an equal amount of courage, curiosity, determination, and brains ... An exciting plot, a refreshing main character, and precise and evocative language combine to offer us a fine read.' (Sena Jeter Naslund) 'Baker juggles her large cast and their secrets dextrously ... Recommended for readers who aren't sick of the centenary glut of Holmes pastiches, and even for those who are.' (Kirkus Reviews)