Historical Fiction Murder Mystery Book Review: Juneau & Douglas Unveiled

Secrets and Suspects in 1916 Alaska: A deep Dive into “death in the Underworld”

Set against the backdrop of a bustling, turn-of-the-century Alaska, Betsy Longenbaugh’s “Death in the Underworld: An alaska Murder Mystery” (Epicenter Press, 2025) plunges readers into a world of mining towns, hidden secrets, and the dark side of the Alaskan gold rush. The novel, spanning 260 pages, is available in paperback for $18.95 and as an Ebook for $6.99.

A Town Gripped by Fear: The Murder in Douglas’s “Restricted District”

The story ignites in 1916 with the finding of a murdered prostitute in the “restricted district” of Douglas. This area, a collection of individual cabins, housed autonomous sex workers struggling to survive. Amidst this grim reality, a young widow working as a maid in a brothel and a determined deputy marshal find themselves entangled in the investigation.

While the identity of the killer might not be a central puzzle for astute mystery readers, the novel delivers suspense through its atmospheric details and character-driven narrative. The victim’s past, shadowed by a “husband” involved in a Buenos Aires sex trafficking ring, casts a long shadow over the investigation. The reader is given unique insight into the circumstance surrounding sex workers in this time period.

Ancient Alaska: More Than Just a Setting

Longenbaugh excels in bringing the historical setting to life. The novel paints a vivid picture of Juneau and Douglas a century ago, offering a glimpse into a world shaped by mining, immigration, and the harsh realities of frontier life.

• Mining Towns: The narrative highlights the omnipresent mines that operated nearly continuously, save for two days each year, underscoring the economic engine driving the region.The intense noise and dangerous conditions of the mines are also portrayed.”The noise was deafening; he felt the stamp mill pounding jarring his skull and thoght he could feel it vibrating down his spine and into his feet.”
• Social Landscape: The story doesn’t shy away from the social complexities of the time, including the presence of “Indian” villages along the waterfront.
• Restricted Districts: Both Juneau and Douglas had these areas where Prostitution was permitted. In Juneau it was known as “The Line”.

beyond the Whodunit: Trafficking and Survival

The novel delves into the harrowing experiences of women trafficked from Europe and forced into prostitution.The murdered woman’s journey,from Poland through Buenos Aires and San francisco,highlights the vulnerability of immigrants and the pervasive nature of exploitation. The practice of luring young European women with the promise of a better life was prevalent during this time. Many were tricked and forced into prostitution.

Longenbaugh portrays the “working” women with empathy, emphasizing their intelligence and resilience in the face of adversity. One character who is Alaska Native, faces constant discrimination.

Romance Amidst the Darkness

While the central plot revolves around murder and intrigue, a budding romance develops between the marshal and the widowed maid. While the connection may seem sudden,with the marshal finding her “unusually appealing” and her “smile made him catch his breath,” it adds a layer of human connection to the story.

A Satisfying Resolution?

In a departure from the bleak realities frequently enough associated with historical crime, the novel concludes with a sense of justice prevailing. While lives are lost, the surviving characters find paths toward healing and new beginnings, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness.

Discover the Underworld for Yourself

“death in the Underworld” offers both mystery and a compelling glimpse into the past. Check out “Death in the Underworld” at your local bookstore or online retailer and step into the shadowy world of 1916 Alaska.

What specific past periods or social issues draw you to historical murder mysteries?

Unearthing Alaska’s Dark Past: An Interview with Historical Fiction Expert, Dr. Evelyn Reed

Today, we’re joined by Dr. Evelyn Reed, a specialist in historical fiction and Alaskan history, to discuss betsy Longenbaugh’s “Death in the Underworld: An Alaska Murder Mystery.” Dr. Reed, welcome to archyde!

Thank you for having me. I’m excited to delve into this intriguing novel.

The Allure of 1916 Alaska in “Death in the Underworld”

dr. Reed, the novel is set in Douglas, Alaska, in 1916, during a period marked by the gold rush and significant social upheaval. What makes this setting so compelling for a murder mystery?

The Alaskan gold rush era provides a rich tapestry of opportunity and desperation. The promise of wealth attracted people from all over the world, creating a melting pot of cultures and, unluckily, exploitation. “Death in the Underworld” utilizes this backdrop masterfully, highlighting the stark contrast between the booming mining industry and the darker aspects of frontier life, including the presence of “restricted districts” and the vulnerabilities of its inhabitants.

Beyond the Whodunit: Exploring Deeper Themes

The review suggests that the novel focuses less on the “whodunit” aspect and more on the historical context and character development. How dose Longenbaugh use the murder to explore these broader themes?

Precisely. The murder of the prostitute in the “restricted district” serves as a catalyst. It allows Longenbaugh to shed light on the lives of women, particularly those trafficked from Europe, forced into prostitution, and the discrimination faced by Alaska Natives within these communities.The novel doesn’t just ask “who did it?” but rather “why were these women so vulnerable?” and “what were the social forces at play that allowed such exploitation to thrive?”. the details of mining operations “The noise was deafening; he felt the stamp mill pounding jarring his skull” and other details show Longenbaugh’s commitment to historical details.

Romance in a Time of Turmoil

The review also mentions a budding romance between the marshal and a widowed maid. How does this relationship contribute to the overall narrative?

The romance offers a glimmer of hope amidst the story’s darkness. It provides a human connection within a harsh habitat, demonstrating that even in the face of societal challenges, relationships can blossom. It also adds a layer of complexity to the main characters, revealing thier vulnerability and compassion.

Historical Accuracy vs. Creative License: Finding the Balance

As a historical fiction expert, how important is historical accuracy in a novel like “Death in the Underworld,” and how well does Longenbaugh strike that balance?

Historical fiction requires a delicate balance act.While complete adherence to every historical detail might stifle the narrative, a strong sense of authenticity is crucial for immersing the reader. From the review, it appears Longenbaugh has done her homework, accurately portraying the social landscape, economic realities, and the hardships faced by people living in 1916 Alaska. The inclusion of specific details, like the operation of mines and “restricted districts,” adds credibility to the story. Of course, some creative license is necesary to weave a compelling narrative, but it should always be grounded in historical plausibility.

Justice and Resolution in the Alaskan Underworld

The review notes that the novel concludes with a sense of justice prevailing.Do you think this is a satisfying resolution, given the grim realities portrayed?

Given the subject matter, a completely bleak ending might be overwhelming. A resolution that offers hope and a path towards healing, while still acknowledging the darkness, can be both satisfying and cathartic for the reader. In this case, it sounds like Longenbaugh has found a way to bring the story to a close while acknowledging the arduous realities of that time period.

A Question for Our Readers: What Captivates You About Historical Murder Mysteries?

Dr. Reed, what aspects of novels like “Death in the Underworld” do you think resonate most with readers today?

I believe it’s the combination of intrigue, historical exploration, and the opportunity to reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the human spirit. These stories allow us to step back in time and consider how the issues of the past continue to shape our present. To our readers, what specific historical periods or social issues draw you to historical murder mysteries?