Books like A beautiful poison by Lydia Kang

Set in New York’s mist‑shrouded streets after the Gilded Age, the novel follows young socialite Allene Wilder as the fatal Spanish influenza sweeps the city. Strangely, each victim echoes a mysterious note, and Allene grows convinced that the deaths are poisonings rather than the epidemic. Allene turns to science, reuniting with former friends Jasper, an apprentice medical examiner at Bellevue Hospital, and Birdie, whose frail health limits her hopes. Together they delve into the town’s hidden corridors of intrigue, uncovering shifting alliances and deep secrets among friends, family and the wealthy elite. Their investigation leads to painful revelations: not everyone can be trusted, and the danger stalks them all. As the number of victims rises, the trio must navigate treacherous relationships and race to expose the murderer—before the next pause in the name engraved on a bleak note brings another tragedy.

First publish date: 2017