This is the first story in a series about Molly Murphy, an Irish immigrant forced to America after she accidentally kills an English nobleman while he attempts to rape her. She is embroiled in a murder investigation when the ship docks, and from there the story develops quickly in old New York City.

What I really liked about this book is that it stays true to historical New York City and Tammany Hall and its relationship with the Police force. I think, while it may be a light mystery, it also addresses some of the serious issues that immigrants faced upon arrival, and just how easy it was for them to either lose everything or gain what they desire.