Never heard of this author so was happy to receive a copy for review. A different sort of protagonist, the psychologist Dr Willing. I suppose the plot might seem a bit dated now, set at the the launch party of an American deb, also, I usually associate this sort of classic crime genre with English rather than US writers. This s is the first in the Dr Willing series and I will definitely look out for the others.

This is the first novel by Helen McCloy that I have read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The novel begins with a debutante ball for Kitty Jocelyn, at some point during the preparations Kitty is poisoned. Her cousin Ann is coerced into taking her place by both Kitty and Rhoda Jocelyn, Kitty’s stepmother and after a full makeover Ann attends the ball. At some point during the proceedings Kitty even though she is ill makes her escape to start a new life and dies outside a few streets away. The New York police including Dr Basil Winning investigate the case and with no motive and so many suspects they cannot seem to see the wood for the trees.

this was a great mystery novel, the plot was interesting and I enjoyed trying to figure out who did it. I liked getting to know the characters and look forward to more in the series.

The morning after her coming out party the body of beautiful socialite Kitty Jocelyn is found in a snowbank. An autopsy reveals death was due to the effects of a diet drug which Kitty advertised, but never took. Suspicion falls on family, as well as her small circle of family, swains, and employees, but none has a discernable motive. Who would murder a beautiful eighteen-year-old girl without an enemy in the world? By focusing on the unconscious actions of the suspects, Dr. Basil Willing uncovers the “psychic fingerprints” that will ultimately lead to the culprit.

This is Helen McCloy’s first book, and the first of fourteen books featuring Dr. Basil Willing, a psychiatrist who acts as an adviser to the New York district attorney's office. There is quite a bit here that I liked. The character is well versed in Freudian psychoanalysis and it is this knowledge, as it applies to individuals and clues, which he uses in solving a case. It’s an interesting take on the role of the amateur detective. And while I’m aware of writers having their detectives base their investigations on the phycological makeup of the suspect/culprit, I’ve not seen it to this degree.

The plot is clever and provides a lot more than murder for the reader to contend with. The murder is quite unique; McCoy’s use of a doppelganger leads to initial confusion over the victim’s identity; well-known party guests (and gate crashers) can’t be found, and almost everyone, including some servants, has something to hide. In addition, it’s hard to figure out who a murderer is when there is no obvious motive. Nearly everyone concerned had a reason for needing the victim alive. How’s that for a red herring?

An intriguing mystery, and a very entertaining read.

Golden Era mysteries warm the cockles of my heart and this fun book is the perfect escape into the 1930s. Not only is a body discovered in a snowbank but other crimes are plentiful as well, creating twists and turns and the unearthing of secrets.

A debutante goes missing and two men shoveling snow are shocked to discover a body. Dr. Basil Willing, a psychologist, teams up with Inspector Foyle to search for the killer. Though their methodology and analyzing styles differ they complement each other nicely. Dr. Willing uses the psychology of the times to get into the murderer's mind. This is one of my favourite aspects of the story...or stories as there are also several subplots. Very interesting, akin to current profiling. The murder itself is thrillingly unique. In determining motives, many suspects are on the table. Objects...and people...disappear and the psychologist and inspector have their hands full untangling the webs of deceit.

Also likable are the unexpected rabbit holes and dead ends. So easy to zip through as it's smoothly readable. As it is set in winter, I recommend reading it enveloped in a comfy blanket and sipping hot chocolate as I did today.

Cozy mystery readers will enjoy this, especially those fascinated by the Golden Era. I've read other books by this author and have found her to be consistently good.

My sincere thank you to Agora Books for providing me with an ARC of this delightful book in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated.