The Desk from Hoboken

Genealogy Mystery, #1

by

M.L. Condike

Try NOT being surprised when delving into family history!

The Desk from Hoboken is the debut novel in M.L. Condike's riveting new Genealogy Mystery series, in which long-buried family secrets threaten the present. Who knew research into family history could be so fascinating … or so dangerous? 

The main character, RaeJean O'Leary Hunter, is an accomplished and skilled forensic genealogist with numerous successes to her credit. She accepts what she thinks will be a straightforward case of research to provide primary source documentation of the identity of the 180-year-old remains of an unknown female: her first commission after a tragic personal loss. Despite the red flags that indicate someone doesn't want old secrets uncovered, she's dogged in her pursuit of the historical records that may contain the proof she needs. I liked that, for the most part, she plays things safe and narrows the windows of opportunity the villains have to cause her harm. However, they had a lot of luck on their side, and she still gets in trouble. She also calls on contacts to provide backup to help lessen her risks. Her struggle with her recent loss was affecting, and I really felt for her and Sam. 

The plot is complex and intriguing, expanding as the scope of RaeJean's research hits one brick wall after another, only to open up another avenue of inquiry. I enjoyed her travels to locations that played a pivotal role in her subject's life, the story she was trying to build, and reading about her research methods. 

I enjoyed the desk's connection to the investigation into Mary Rogers's identity and fate. The supernatural aspect was appealing, and I wanted more every time this came up. I look forward to further books in the series to see how the spirits associated with the desk fit in. 

You would think that this story would be all about sitting in various library basements squinting at fragile, crumbling, hard-to-read records, and there is some of that, but for the most part, you would be wrong. This well-paced story includes a lot of face-to-face investigation and questioning of descendants interspersed with edge-of-your-seat, heart-pounding action. I recommend THE DESK FROM HOBOKEN to mystery readers who enjoy a historical cold case theme, genealogical research, and a touch of the paranormal.

*Read my review for Book Two of the series, The Doll from Dunedin, HERE!