Piper Sail is BACK, and she’s still the cat’s pajamas!

In “The Secret Investigator of Astor Street,” Stephanie Morrill distills atmospheric prose, the nuances of grief, complex family drama, undiluted emotion, and the shadowed back-alleys of 1920’s Chicago into an intoxicating YA mystery riddled with more twists than a speakeasy escape tunnel.

Readers of “The Lost Girl of Astor Street” will thrill at being reunited with the intrepid Piper Sail as she takes a magnifying glass to a maybe murder, doggedly searching for the truth and a sense of purpose.

If you’re in need of a private eye with moxie and heart, The Secret Investigator of Astor Street is on the case!

📚 A Piper Sail Mystery
📖 1) The Lost Girl of Astor Street
📖 2) The Secret Investigator of Astor Street

Phenomenal sequel to the first Piper Sail Mystery novel! It’s been a long wait but I am thrilled that this series is continuing. Love the edgy Nancy Drew vibe. Instead of bucolic River Heights, Piper sleuths in mobster-run Chicago in the 1920s, a full decade before Nancy put on her deerstalker hat! Makes for some classic atmospheric amateur sleuthing!

Piper’s dream of becoming a full-fledged private investigator seems destined to go unfulfilled. She is constrained by the expectations placed on a recently graduated high society young miss (aka get married and serve at charity functions.) Can she help it if she excels at crime solving instead of flower arranging?!

So her indomitable spirit and gritty determination seem destined to remain buried in a stifling clerical job until a sleuthing opportunity presents itself. Ofcourse, she can’t resist diving in. Love the complexity of the investigation, the intriguing plot twists, and the tremendous character growth Piper experiences along the way. I’m also a fan of the way her relationship with her police detective boyfriend develops as well. He is refreshingly supportive, a truly forward thinking man of the times!

Tumultuous complications in Piper’s home life, and even in part of her romance, add extra depth to the story and kept me riveted. Definitely a read-in-one-sitting kinda book…or in my case compulsively listen because, once again, I enjoyed Megan Trout’s narration. Love the way she portrays all the characters, especially Piper. And she captures all the intricacies of emotion and humour…and even hair-raising danger…to perfection.

My thanks to Harper Collins Focus / Blink and Net Galley for providing me with an audio copy of this book.

Great secod part of the series. The investigation, the romance, all the lies and secrets... I really enjoyed how Piper grows as a person. Hope there will be other books soon.

This was as fun as the first book. I really enjoyed the story and the characters and the ending was believable, which is important to me.
This book will make much more sense if read after the first one. They really do go together well and the second builds on the first.
I listened to this on audio and really liked the narrator (same as the first book which is also important to me).
Hoping this author writes some more books with Piper Sail.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins Focus for my ARC.

Another great read from Stephanie Morrill. In this second adventure, Piper is persuaded by her late best friend's sister to take on a potentially dangerous case in which she must determine if an accepted verdict of suicide is actually homicide. Of course, this is 1924 Chicago, so it should come as no surprise that there is a mob connection. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Piper hone her investigative skills, as she simultaneously navigates her changing family dynamics and her growing relationship with Mariano. Thankfully, Mariano is becoming increasingly appreciative of Piper's talent, and the book escapes the tiresome trope where the boyfriend is forever berating the MFC about her sleuthing activities. Time will only tell what adventures await the two young investigators, and I cannot wait to listen to more of them.

This series continues to impress me, but I struggle to explain why without becoming pedantic. Essentially, it takes a number of complex subjects, including grief, changing family dynamics, challenging romantic relationships, evolving friendships, and a journey to adulthood, and combines them into an entertaining story that defies its YA classification.

The appeal of the book is enhanced by the wonderful narration and beautifully modulated voice of Megan Trout.

In the second installment of The Piper Sail Mysteries, The Secret Investigator of Astor Street , Piper Sail is asked to investigate the suicide of the brother of one of Emma’s friends, Louisa. Louisa proves to be a difficult client, and Piper ha doubts about the stories she tells. However, Piper follows clues and uncovers several interesting things that may prove that Louisa is right. Of course, the Chicago mob is involved, and Piper finds that Louisa’s brother is involved.

This story is upbeat, and Stephanie Morrill does a good job of telling the tale with unexpected scenarios and building suspense. However, this is a cozy and is light and fun. Morrill further develops Piper in this second novel. As a protagonist, readers will find Piper a bit stubborn and snarky, and will like her very much. She is fun, and smart when it comes to investigating. There are also supporting characters who are good and believable, New characters are introduced in this novel who aren’t particularly likeable, but move the story along and become suspects. Piper decides that it was, in fact, a suicide, and Louisa gets angry, throws a tantrum, and fires Piper.

The facts don’t come out until the dénouement at the very end of the novel, and it is a surprise. It is a good ending and a good book that will get readers anticipating subsequent novels in this series. //for those who choose to listen to the audio book, the narrator, Megan Trout, is excellent and makes it fun.

Special thanks to NetGalley for supplying a review copy of this book.

Though this is book number two in the series, I feel like this book gives the reader enough background to know a bit about where we came from to know where we are going, However, if you don't want book #1 spoiled for you, then you may want to read that one first.

Piper Sail is diving into her second investigation and is still nervous to call herself an investigator. In the 1920's, women weren't officially eligible to be detectives, but since she has solved one case, she feels drawn to keep looking into cases if they came across her desk. Though she has graduated from the Preston's Girl Academy, she takes a job working as an administrative assistant in the front office. Her friend Emma brings a friend named Louise who hopes Piper is able to look into the death of her brother. Louise is adamant that her brother didn't kill himself and wants answers.

As Piper looks into the case, it takes her to a mafia run gambling den and to various other parts of Chicago. I love her spunky attitude and determination to try and get answers when it seems things aren't adding up. I am not sure I would say this is "perfect for fans of Agatha Christie", however it is a very cute and cozy murder mystery as we look into whether it was murder or not. I also really like her boyfriend Mariano. Though he's busy working as a detective for the Chicago PD, he is really quite supportive of who Piper is. He just wants her to be safe and talk to him which I thought was incredibly healthy compared to other love interests we often run across.

I give the book about 4.25* but I am going to round up since I will be on the look out for another installment of Piper's cases.

Well this was awesome. When does the next book come out?

Loved this book. Love love. I can’t find anything to complain about. Although the author had some time between this book and the first, it was seamless. It did not feel as if there was a ton of time. The characters didn’t change in this time, and that was impressive. I loved the ending, where the author acknowledges how much fun historical fiction books can be, because some people (the author, me) will then research things to see how true the book could have been.

Like I said, no negatives come to mind. I wouldn’t necessarily say this is a YA book, although the main female is fresh out of high school. The time period is so much fun, the characters are strong and have a ton of depth.

The narrator is listed as Megan Trout. This narrator also read the first book, which is great when publishers can make this happen. The narrator really was spot on with male/female characters as well as the “proper” speaking of the era.

Fabulous read. I would absolutely recommend.

4.5 Stars!

A glass of wine, 1920s Jazz playlist, Candles + Piper Sail = a perfect Sunday afternoon


Set in 1920s Chicago, this historical mystery follows amateur sleuth Piper Sail as she takes on her first case as Private Investigator. She has been hired to investigate a suspicious death that’s been too quickly ruled a suicide. As a young woman navigating high society, gang activity, and her own grief, Piper balances intuition and courage in her search for the truth.

I was lucky enough to receive both the eARC and the ALC audiobook, so I read along while listening – and it really brought the story to life!! I even played a 1920s jazz playlist in the background, which made the whole experience feel completely immersive and so much fun!!



Pros

- The 1920s setting was vivid and atmospheric, from grand mansions to smoky speakeasies

- Piper's character has grown since the first book - she's determined, thoughtful, and more independent

- The mystery kept a strong pace with well-placed clues. One of the things I liked most was how the investigation made sense, it wasn't just convenient leaps of intuition, but a believable chain of clues and decisions

- HER CRIME BOARD CUPBOARD every detective needs a crime board!

- Themes of grief, self-doubt and finding purpose are handled with care

- The audiobook narration was clear and engaging - it paired really well with the text

- A perfect read to pair with jazz and a cup of tea (or whiskey)



Cons
- The romantic subplot with Mariano felt underdeveloped - more distant and a sub-sub-suuubplot. Though the few scenes they did get together had some very sweet moments. MORE PIPRIANO PLEASE 😋

- A few side characters that I loved in the last book didn't return (Walter :() and I felt this took away from the story. Her friendships were a huge part of the last book and I missed those interactions. Though hopefully a certain crooked nosed person will make another appearance! Would be interesting to see a friendship between him and Mariano



Overall it was a smart, witty & atmospheric mystery with a strong female lead and a richly described setting. I enjoyed this even more than the first book and loved how Piper’s personal growth took centre stage. With the audiobook, eARC, and a jazz playlist going, it felt like stepping right into 1920s Chicago!! Highly recommend for fans of historical YA or cosy mysteries with a bit of an edge.

I can't wait for more Piper Sail mysteries to be written!!


Content Warnings:
References to suicide


Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for both the eARC and audiobook in exchange for my honest review.

'The Secret Investigator of Astor Street' brings the same great mix of 1920s mystery, character depth, and clean storytelling—just with a more reflective tone. Piper takes a secretary job at her old finishing school (which, let’s be honest, no one really thinks suits her), and it ends up leading her into her first big case since solving Lydia’s murder. Chicago’s prevalent gang activity during the Prohibition era adds even more depth to the mystery this time around.

Piper is still trying to figure out what her future looks like after so much loss—her mom, Lydia, and the version of life she thought she’d have. She loves investigating, but that’s not exactly a career path women have the opportunity to pursue. She and Mariano hit some bumps, mostly due to miscommunication, but their relationship is still really sweet to follow.

Jane steps into more of an antagonist role here, but I get why she’s written that way—her presence helps push Piper toward independence. It makes sense, even if she’s hard to like sometimes. Piper’s growing friendships with Hannah and Emma bring warmth, humor, and a grounding sense of support through all the changes she’s facing.

Megan Trout’s narration is, once again, spot-on. She brings Piper to life with charm and personality and captures the time period beautifully. Whether you read or listen, this is a well-rounded sequel that’s worth your time.

Special thanks to Blink and NetGalley for access to the audiobook. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was just as wonderful as the first one! I loved getting to know Piper better and seeing her in action on her first case where she doesn’t have a connection to the victim. This requires her to use her smarts and personality to get the information she needs. The blossoming relationship with Mariano as well as the complicated relationships she has with her family add a layer of depth to the story that had me just as captivated as the mystery. I can’t wait for the next one!

Narration was fantastic, no issues!

Big Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the advanced copy! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

'The Secret Investigator of Astor Street' is the second book in the 'A Piper Sail Mystery' series.

The second book is as good as the first one, with Piper venturing into yet again another mystery, which was as twisty and intriguing as the one in the first book.

The atmosphere was great as well, and there were a lot of details that contributed to it a lot.

The character development was also intense and well-crafted.

Finally, the audiobook was well narrated and produced, but the time skips were not well handled.

incredibly far too juvenile for the time period. I had family alive in chicago at this time and it seems the author did little to no research,

🔍"𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙙𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙖𝙮? 𝙒𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙣𝙚𝙧, 𝘿𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙎𝙖𝙞𝙡?"

Oh how I 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 this book. I'd say it's better than the first in the series (The Lost Girl Of Astor Street) I finished this in two sittings. Loved the characters, the mystery, vibes, writing, everything. I can't 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵 for the third ─even though this one isn't even published yet, not for a few days─
I LOVE Mariano, I just wish he was here a little more. Him and Piper are adorable together.
Sidekick is such a cutie too.

I don't know what else more to say honestly, I'm terrible at writing reviews but this book was 𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘻𝘪𝘯𝘨. I love female investigators in books, especially how in this one it's set in the 1920's and there aren't any, and Piper wants to be one.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for this an audiobook copy of this arc!

How interesting! I enjoyed this one much more than book one including enjoying the narrator. While obviously the same voice my experience was if it was an entirely different person!

It was narrated by Megan Trout and she spoke at a great swift conversational pace for the 1x speed and didn’t cross that line of being overly dramatic.

The story itself was more enjoyable and executed better as well. Our main character Piper Sail has now graduated High School although she does come off a bit older than her stated age, even taking into consideration the year it takes place in. And there is a bit of repetitiveness which takes the reader out of the flow a bit but consuming the audiobook helps moves that along.

So if you enjoy historical fictions combines with mysteries this may be a fun laidback read for you to consume this fall season as it comes out August 5th

I am thankful to have gotten a complimentary audio ALC from Blink through NetGalley to read which gave me the opportunity to voluntarily leave a review.

My general rating system is below. Since I primarily read ARC books I rate according to how I think like minded readers will receive the book. I will round up or down depending on many factors and try not to let my personal wants affect a books ratings.

⭐️ Hated It but pushed through as I don’t DNF ARCs I have received.
⭐️⭐️ Had a lot of trouble, prose issues, content issues, poorly edited.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Meh, it was an ok read but it had something that stopped me from rounding up. Usually the book may have much more potential than what was given. I recommend it but with reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I Really enjoyed it or think others will. These are solid reads that I definitely would recommend for a variety of reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding! These are books that remain rent free in my head for well after unfinished the book. It can be for a variety of reasons from being very well written or just the vibes that captured my mind. These books are also ones I would probably read again