The novel that sparked the hugely popular Murdoch Mysteries television series celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Includes a new introduction and a previously unpublished short story featuring the young Detective Murdoch.

In the cold Toronto winter of 1895, the unclad body of a young woman is found naked and frozen in a quiet laneway. Acting Detective William Murdoch, driven by pity for the girl and the desire to secure his promotion, is determined to pursue every lead and reveal the truth. Although influential people pressure the police to solve the mystery quickly, when the girl is eventually identified, it becomes clear that those connected with her life have secrets to hide.

Murdoch must use every detective skill he possesses as well as his understanding of human nature as he pursues the mystery through both brothels and drawing rooms, desperate to untangle the case before more lives are lost. Shortlisted for an Arthur Ellis Award

"No author has mined Toronto's past with the dedication to detail of mystery writer Maureen Jennings."
– Toronto Star

“A chiller . . . impressive. An engaging historical mystery.”
– Houston Chronicle

“Remarkable.”
– Philadelphia Inquirer

"A first novel enriched by the vividness of its period settings and animated by the lifelike characters caught up in its broad social sweep."
– New York Times

"Jennings creates more than a period mystery. She brings alive 1895 Toronto."
– Publishers Weekly

"A winner. Provocative . . . finely flavored, credible, and detailed."
– Library Journal

"Terrific . . . the best historical mystery of the year. . . . Murdoch is a fine creation. . . . We can't wait to meet him again."
– Mystery Collector's BookLine