The Frozen People

Edgar winner Griffiths (the Ruth Halloway series) launches an intriguing new series featuring time-traveling cold case investigator Ali Dawson. For years, Ali has worked at the Department of Logistics in London, a top secret office known only to a few higher-ups in government. She and her four colleagues handle cases gone so cold they often require inter-century travel to gather evidence, using cutting-edge technology developed specifically for their department. One morning, justice minister Isaac Templeton—who employs Ali’s son, Finn—asks her to get to the bottom of persistent rumors that his great-grandfather murdered three women in 1850. Though his ancestor was never convicted, Templeton insists that the allegations have left a “stain on the family honor,” and he won’t rest until they’re resolved. Ali heads to the past to investigate, but while she’s gone, Finn is accused of murder, and Ali winds up trapped in the 1850s. Griffiths buoys her potentially goofy setup with richly nuanced characters and vivid historical detail. This is a good bet for mystery buffs, historical fiction fans, and time-travel enthusiasts alike. Agent: Rebecca Carter, Rebecca Carter Literary. (July)