The early summer of 1909 finds Emily Cabot eagerly anticipating a relaxing vacation with her family. Before they can depart, however, she receives news that her brother, Alden, has been involved in a shooting death at the Selig Polyscope silent movie studios on Chicago’s northwest side. She races to investigate, along with her friend Detective Henry Whitbread. There they discover a sprawling backlot, complete with ferocious jungle animals and the celluloid cowboys Tom Mix and Broncho Billy. As they dig deeper into the situation, they uncover furtive romantic liaisons between budding movie stars and an attempt by Thomas Edison to maintain his stranglehold over the emerging film industry. Before the intrepid amateur sleuth can clear her brother’s name she faces a serious break with the detective; a struggle with her adolescent daughter, who is obsessed with the filming of the original Wizard of Oz movie; and threats upon her own life.

Praise for Death at the Selig Studios

"A well-crafted plot with fascinating period detail... Historical figures such as Tom Mix and Broncho Billy move easily among the strong fictional cast. This is a must for film buffs, as well as those simply looking for a cracking good mystery." --Publishers Weekly

 "Like busybody Emily herself, Deathat the Selig Studios is pure delight." --Mystery Scene

"Frances McNamara writes such a smart, well researched mystery. Her books are a perfect example of what a good historical mystery should be--well rounded characters, terrific plot with some unexpected turns, and a wealth of historical detail." --View from the Birdhouse


"I loved this gripping historical mystery that delves into the early efforts of the movie industry in Chicago in 1909. Frances McNamara brings the period and the setting alive with details of clothing, trains, everyday life, and technological breakthroughs...This is the seventh book in the series and I was able to jump directly into Emily life and those of her family members. The twists and turns kept my attention until a surprising ending. I highly recommend this book." --Edith Maxwell,  Agatha- and Macavity-nominated author of the Quaker Midwife Mysteries

"Full of fascinating historic detail. I couldn't put this one down!" luv-to-read
 

"Deceptions, blackmails, deceit, greed, revenge, hate and just plain selfishness, as author Frances McNamara takes readers inside the movie industry in the 1900’s learning about the first silent movies, the dangers involved using animals and the excitement it created for everyone young and old as the conclusion will allow readers to learn just who committed the DEATH AT THE SELIG STUDIOS! Emily Cabot is a strong character with definite sleuthing abilities and maybe Whitbread needs to reconsider not using her again as she played an important part in solving the murders. A definite must read."--Fran Lewis: Just reviews/Mj network/MJ magazine