‘Imagine it, ladies: the grandest house in London, licked clean on the biggest night of the season.’
I liked the idea of a group of women coming togeth‘Imagine it, ladies: the grandest house in London, licked clean on the biggest night of the season.’
I liked the idea of a group of women coming together to plan an audacious heist, a female equivalent if you like of the group of men in the 1960 film The League of Gentleman in which the involuntarily-retired Lieutenant Colonel Hyde (played by Jack Hawkins) recruits seven other dissatisfied ex-servicemen to commit a bank robbery. Although the women who christen themselves ‘The Housekeepers’ each have slightly different reasons for wanting to take part, the underlying motivation is revenge but other motivations become apparent as the book progresses. As a result, the operation turns into a desire to obtain justice for others as much as for themselves.
I found the book entertaining although a bit on the slow side as the heist doesn’t actually take place until nearly two thirds of the way through the book, at which point it all becomes rather frenzied and a little confused. I found the mechanics of the heist (involving the use of rope swings, winches and extendable poles amongst other things) stretched credulity, although perhaps it was the author’s intention to introduce an element of outrageous absurdity to the proceedings. The secret of what has been going on in the de Vries household didn’t come as much of a surprise although it did provide some vindication for the women’s actions. The relationship between sewing maid Alice with her mistress Miss de Vries introduces what has become a familiar trope in historical fiction.
My favourite character was Hephzibah Grandcourt whose gift for acting produces some very amusing scenes and whose sheer chutzpah proves vital to the mission when it encounters some sticky moments. I also liked Mrs Bone, a woman who has built a criminal enterprise to rival – if not outdo – her male counterparts.
The Housekeepers ‘does what is says on the tin’. It’s an entertaining book that doesn’t take itself too seriously but sets itself apart from the current wave of ‘cosy crime’ novels by focussing on those carrying out the crime rather than those solving it. (Readers may also want to note there is a bonus chapter in the paperback edition which is not in the ebook. The audiobook version was also highly praised by book club members.)...more
The Comfort of Ghosts is the eighteenth – and final – book in the author’s Maisie Dobbs series. As such it’s partly a curtain call for many of the chaThe Comfort of Ghosts is the eighteenth – and final – book in the author’s Maisie Dobbs series. As such it’s partly a curtain call for many of the characters readers have encountered over the previous seventeen books. There are references to past events which would make it possible to read it as a standalone but I’d really recommend devouring the series from the beginning.
The ‘ghosts’ of the title are also very much present: people lost in the war, those who survived but are changed forever and those who must live with the consequences of their actions. And the evidence of the war is all around in damaged buildings, damaged people and a country deep in debt. ‘We’ll all be happy to leave the war and get on with the peace, such as it is, but it’ll be a good long time before it lets go of us, won’t it?’
If there’s a theme to the book, it’s change. For some it’s enforced change because of what they have gone through, for others it’s new opportunities at home or abroad. And the country is changing too, such as the establishment of the National Health Service and the building of new homes with modern amenities.
What hasn’t changed is that Maisie can’t resist getting involved in a mystery nor can she ignore the plight of people in peril. Bringing together the analytical skills learned from her deceased mentor, her trusted team of helpers and her admirable powers of persuasion, she seeks to get to the bottom of a mysterious death that no-one seems to want investigated. In the process she is forced to confront memories of her own personal tragedies but also to recognise the good fortune that has come her way: a loving husband and daughter, and a close-knit circle of family and friends.
I thought The Comfort of Ghosts was a beautifully balanced blend of heartbreak and hope for the future, and the perfect end to a wonderfully entertaining series....more
The Montford Maniac is the second book in the author’s Violet Thorn historical mystery series. I haven’t read the first book, The Horror of Haglin HouThe Montford Maniac is the second book in the author’s Violet Thorn historical mystery series. I haven’t read the first book, The Horror of Haglin House, but I can safely say The Montford Maniac can be read as a standalone.
Those who’ve read any of the author’s previous books will be familiar with his love of quirky character names – I give you Pertinance Quail and Petunia Bottle – humorous chapter headings, puns and wordplay. His representation of the Suffolk accent, as exemplified by Lady Violet’s maid, Agnust (and no I haven’t misspelt that), you’ll find either comical or slightly irritating. Those who’ve read any of the books in the Betty Church series will know what I mean.
If, like me, this is the first Violet Thorn book you’ve read what will be new to you is that Violet has a persistent internal dialogue with two of the fictional characters from her novels: ‘lady adventuress’, Ruby Gibson and Scotland Yard detective, Inspector Havelock Hefty. They have no compunction about interrupting Violet’s thoughts, passing judgment on her actions, making what they think are helpful suggestions or even pleading with her for a different ending to the novels in which they feature. One, for instance, that doesn’t involve Hefty getting fatally stabbed with a poisoned dagger. There is little love lost between Ruby and Hefty meaning the pair engage in plenty of verbal sparring. You may find their constant interventions amusing or distracting. If the latter, follow Violet’s example and try to zone them out.
As The Montford Maniac opens Lady Violet has been unexpectedly jilted by her childhood friend and fiance, Jack Raven. There follow a number of rather grisly murders and some lucky escapes for Lady Violet, including narrowly avoiding being savaged by a panther and being chucked from the top of a lighthouse. In the process of trying to identify the culprit she discovers some useful allies but also that things are not exactly what they seem. In fact, they never were as they seemed. All rather fishy… Given the twists and turns, remarkable revelations and unexpected unmaskings [Ed: that’s enough alliterations now], if you guess what’s been going on you’ll have done better than me!
The Montford Maniac is described by the publishers as a ‘rollicking, unputdownable Victorian mystery’ and, although slightly silly at times, it’s an awful lot of fun....more
A Plague of Serpents is the fourth and final book in the author’s Daniel Pursglove series comprising The Drowned City, Traitor in the Ice and Rivers oA Plague of Serpents is the fourth and final book in the author’s Daniel Pursglove series comprising The Drowned City, Traitor in the Ice and Rivers of Treason. The author is renowned for constructing complex plots and this book is no exception. In addition there are many characters to get to know, not all of whom may be what they profess to be, and the true identity of others remains shrouded in mystery. For these reasons I think it would be a struggle to fully enjoy the book without having read the previous three. To be honest, I struggled a bit for a time and I have read all three! (If you don’t have the time or inclination to read the series from the beginning but would like to experience the author’s work then I’d suggest trying one of her standalone historical novels such as The Plague Charmer set in the time of the Black Death.)
The thread that runs through all the Daniel Pursglove books is the search for Spero Pettingar, the only conspirator involved in the Gunpowder Plot who is still at large. As I mentioned in my review of the first book in the series, it wasn’t until I read the historical notes at the end of the book that I realised Spero Pettingar was a real historical figure. For much of the book, I was convinced his name was an anagram! Although having said that, perhaps there is some significance to his peculiar name after all…
King James remains conscious of the continued threat to his life, taking elaborate precautions to prevent being poisioned. He’s right to be vigilant because there are at least two groups who would like to see him dead, either to put their own choice of successor on the throne or to have no monarch at all. And if one group does the job for the other, all well and good.
It’s not just in the Royal court that there exists an atmosphere of mistrust. It’s the same in wider society as well, especially if you’re secretly practising the Catholic faith. ‘Friends, neighbours, brothers, servants, even your own children were not to be trusted. Anyone could be bribed or threatened.’
Daniel makes a spirited hero who’s handy with a dagger, able to blend into the shadows and an expert at ‘charming’ locks. Although the master of narrow escapes, even he makes the odd mistake with the result that he finds himself in some dangerous situations. There are lots of people who want to find out exactly what he knows and don’t have any compunction in using force to do so.
Natural phenomena have provided the background to all the books. In The Drowned City it was a devastating wave in the Bristol Channel, in Traitor in the Ice it was the Great Frost of 1607 and in Rivers of Treason it was the impact of the previous two on the livelihoods of the population: farmland ruined by salt from the flood, cattle and sheep drowned or frozen and winter wheat wiped out by frost. This time the Black Death is making a stealthy return and no-one is safe from that.
As always, the author conjures up the sights, sounds and smells of London – the latter being invariably unpleasant. We’re taken to familiar places like taverns and markets, but also introduced to occupations such as palterer, gong farmer and clank napper. If you’ve no idea what the last three are, check out the Glossary in which you’ll find the answers along with definitions of things such as ‘stool ducketts’, ‘muggets’ and ‘furuncles’. Oh, and whether you should take offence if you’re called a ‘snoutband’ or a ‘princock’.
As the book moves towards its close, we finally learn more about the events in Daniel’s past that have haunted his dreams and left him with an overwhelming sense of guilt for so long. There is also a final reckoning involving two key figures in Daniel’s life. However, the author resists the temptation to tie everything up leaving the reader to imagine for themselves what the future holds for some of the characters we’ve got to know....more
I’m a huge fan of Rory Clements’ novels. I loved his John Shakespeare historical crime series set in Elizabethan England comprising Martyr, Revenger, I’m a huge fan of Rory Clements’ novels. I loved his John Shakespeare historical crime series set in Elizabethan England comprising Martyr, Revenger, Prince, Traitor, The Heretics, The Queen’s Man and Holy Spy. And I absolutely adore his Tom Wilde series set in WW2 Cambridge comprising (so far) Corpus, Nucleus, Nemesis, Hitler’s Secret, A Prince and a Spy, The Man in the Bunker and The English Führer.
So I came to Munich Wolf with high expectations; I wasn’t disappointed. Sebastian Wolff is, if you like, Tom Wilde’s German alter ego. Like Wilde, he has a strong sense of justice. And in the same way Wilde has his trusty Rudge Special motorcycle, Wolff has his beloved Lancia Augusta cabriolet. But in their personal lives they differ. Wolff’s barely disguised loathing for Hitler’s regime has created a breach in his relationship with his son Jurgen, who is a fervent admirer of the Führer and a member of the Hitler Youth. It’s only when an act of violence comes close to home for Jurgen that their frosty relationship thaws a little.
The book sees Wolff’s commitment to uncovering the truth come slap bang up against political interests, both domestic and international. There’s a quite complex structure of different security and police institutions, but stick with it. Given the period in which it’s set and what we now know about the dreadful acts perpetrated by the Nazi regime, it’s probably no surprise that the story goes to some dark, sinister and perverted places, places populated by fanatics. ‘Paganism, ritual murder, sex magic, the Thule Society [a German occultist and Völkisch group founded in Munich shortly after World War I], Hitler’s obsession with the occult, the runic symbol for the sun, the geblōt places of ancient Nordic sacrifices…’
In pursuing his investigation, Wolff faces personal risks but he doggedly persists resulting in confrontations with some particularly ruthless individuals and a spell in a concentration camp. He’s also hampered in his enquiries by being assigned an assistant, Sergeant Hans Winter, with whom Wolff had already had an inauspicious first meeting, and who in reality is his minder, informing his bosses in the Bavarian Political Police (the forerunner of the Gestapo) about Wolff’s movements. Things really hot up when Wolff gets a little too close to implicating some influential figures in the regime.
Real life figures abound, in particular English socialite Unity Mitford who as well as coming across as an utter snob, shows herself to be an antisemite and vile apologist for the Nazi regime.
Sebastian Wolff is a great character. He’s a man of action but the author has also given him an interesting personal hinterland. (He’s rather swoonworthy as well.) Although badged as a standalone novel, I can see Munich Wolf being the first book in a series – in fact, I’d be overjoyed if it is.
Action-packed, full of twists and turns, and with fascinating historical detail, Munich Wolf is another powerful thriller from the pen of Rory Clements, ideal for fans of the late lamented Philip Kerr’s Bernie Gunther series....more
As the author explains in the Historical Notes, Samuel Pepys kept a diary for almost ten years but then suddenly stopped for reasons that can only be As the author explains in the Historical Notes, Samuel Pepys kept a diary for almost ten years but then suddenly stopped for reasons that can only be speculated upon. The Lost Diary of Samuel Pepys imagines what events in Pepys’ life he might have recorded in his diaries had he continued. As a result we have the author to thank for giving us an insight into an unsettled period in English history following the Restoration of Charles II, a time when war with the Dutch was a real fear and whose side you had been on in the Civil War still mattered. The author cleverly incorporates elements of this into a plot that involves murder, conspiracy, treachery and political intrigue whilst at the same time being a rip-roaring adventure.
As imagined by the author, Samuel Pepys is not only a diligent diarist but an intrepid investigator, a faithful friend and someone who, in the course of the book, discovers a perhaps surprising taste for adventure. He also has a high pain threshold. If you don’t believe me, look up the word ‘lithotomy’ and then think ‘without anaesthetic’. He’s a less than faithful husband unfortunately with the result that his relationship with his wife Elisabeth is fraught, at least when the book opens.
The book immerses the reader in the London and Portsmouth of the period in all their grimy and fetid detail. The streets and alleyways are a place of danger and poverty is rife. For many it’s a miserable existence, enlivened only by attending cock-fights or watching a hanging. Or in Pepys’ case frequenting whorehouses, which gives rise to a terrific scene at the start of the book. There are plenty of action scenes as well depicted in a way which perhaps reflect the author’s experience as a filmmaker. Pepys ascending the stern of a ship via a rope ladder or the tactical use of a trail of gunpowder are scenes that spring to mind.
The book includes some great characters, some of whom are based on real individuals, such as Pepys’ longtime assistant Will Hewer. There are some fantastically feisty female characters, notably a sisterhood who in their resistance to a male hegemony in which ‘the law is an instrument of men’ prove themselves able to give just as good as they get, if not better. The plot has plenty of twists and turns leaving Pepys to observe ruefully at one point that ‘for every answer, another question’.
By the end of the book, it’s clear that not everything was as it seemed, things that seemed connected were perhaps not and that, for reasons of state, there are things that must be kept under wraps. With still some time to go between the end of the book and our hero’s demise in 1703, perhaps Jack Jewers may treat us to further adventures for Samuel and Will?
With its combination of intriguing plot, interesting characters and great period atmosphere, The Lost Diary of Samuel Pepys will definitely appeal to fans of historical crime mysteries....more
A new author to me, Christopher Huang is described as a fan of ‘Golden Age’ detective fiction and that’s easy to see because Unnatural Ends has many oA new author to me, Christopher Huang is described as a fan of ‘Golden Age’ detective fiction and that’s easy to see because Unnatural Ends has many of the features you’d expect in a classic crime novel – a murder victim found in a locked room, a will, a series of suspicious deaths – plus a touch of the Gothic in the ancient and forbidding Linwood Hall with its stone walls and towers, and servants’ passageways.
To say the contents of their father’s will comes as a surprise to Lord Linwood’s three grown-up children – Alan, Roger and Caroline – is an understatement. They had not expected to be pitted against one another in a contest whose prize is inheritance of the entire Linwood estate. Having said that, perhaps it shouldn’t have come as that much of a surprise given their upbringing was more a series of tests by their stern, exacting father than a conventional childhood.
The story alternates between the points of view of the three children so we see how they approach – both separately and together – the search for clues to the identity of the murderer, the means by which the murder was carried out and its motivation. But we also get occasional glimpses of recent events in their lives and recollections of growing up at Linwood Hall, a place dominated by their father. ‘Father himself was like the prelude to a storm, a gathering darkness.’ As the story unfolds and they discover more, these recollections take on a very different complexion. And what they discover is distinctly unsettling and quite unexpectedly dark.
Unnatural Ends is a really cleverly constructed crime mystery with the customary helping of red herrings, sleights of hands and unexpected reveals. But what particularly stood out for me is how the author incorporates into the motivation for the dastardly deeds a philosophy – a quite distasteful one, actually – that was surprising prevalent at the time. Plus a bit of Nietzsche for good measure. And at one point, Caroline read my mind by commenting, “This is King Lear, isn’t it?”. (I do love a bit of intertextuality.)
I really enjoyed Unnatural Ends for its ingenious plot and clever evocation of ‘Golden Age’ detective fiction....more
Voices of the Dead is the fourth book in the authors' Raven, Fisher and Simpson series of historical crime mysteries set in late nineteenth century EdVoices of the Dead is the fourth book in the authors' Raven, Fisher and Simpson series of historical crime mysteries set in late nineteenth century Edinburgh. I've read all the previous books in the series - The Way of All Flesh, The Art of Dying and A Corruption of Blood - but I think this may be the best one yet. Voices of the Dead can be read as a standalone but you would miss out on the way the authors have developed the main characters and the relationships between them over the course of the series.
One of the things I like about the books is how the authors incorporate medical advances of the period, often the subject of controversy, into what are skilfully plotted, exciting crime mysteries. In this case, it's the potential use of mesmerism to cure medical conditions.
Will Raven and Sarah Fisher are great characters with things in common, such as tragedy in their pasts, but also complementary qualities. Sarah is logical and practical, whereas Will is more the man of action. Their teasing, at times precariously close to intimate, relationship has been one of the joys of the series.
They both face moral dilemmas at some point in the book. Sarah is forced to consider whether her desire to embrace mesmerism as a path to achieving her ambition to be a doctor is blinding her to possible flaws in the claims of its efficacy. 'Was her own desire to be of significance affecting her judgment? Was she craving being taken seriously to such an extent that she was losing perspective?' I felt her frustration and the unfairness of her abilities not being recognised because of her sex.
Meanwhile Will finds himself having to choose between achieving his personal ambitions and his conscience. And, as before, he remains haunted by the violence of his past. As one character observes, 'I have seldom seen a man with so many ghosts about him, You are surrounded by the dead.' Yet now, as a husband and father, Will has even more reason to fear that legacy.
The book sees the return of some characters from previous books, a few in very different guises. I always think it shows skill to make a reader feel sympathy for a character who has serious flaws, but the authors manage to do it here to great effect. As befits a plot that involves the question of what is real and what is illusion, there are some great sleights of hand and misdirections. In the final chapters the action moves from gentle simmer to conflagration, in a neat echo of the prologue. There's a tantalising sense of jeopardy and, at various points, I'm sure I won't be alone in thinking, I really wouldn't do that if I was you.
Voices of the Dead is an ingenious and absorbing historical crime mystery, and a splendid addition to the series. And, Ambrose Parry, what teases you are with that ending! Don't make us wait too long for the next one....more
Sepulchre Street is the fourth in the author’s historical crime series featuring Rachel Savernake. It’s a series I only discovered when I read the preSepulchre Street is the fourth in the author’s historical crime series featuring Rachel Savernake. It’s a series I only discovered when I read the previous book, Blackstone Fell.
Rachel Savernake is not so much a private detective as a personal detective pursuing investigations that spark her interest. As she herself admits, ‘It’s the thrill of the chase. I yearn for it like an addict craves the needle’ and her favourite pastime is ‘Asking what if?’ But it’s not just any old crime that attracts her: her taste is for the ‘exotic’.
The author teases us by continuing to hold back information about Rachel’s past growing up on the remote island of Gaunt. (Some readers may find this frustrating but I find it tantalising.) What we do know is that she is a very wealthy young woman. However, her early life remains shrouded in mystery. She zealously guards her privacy and is a formidable adversary. Beware what she carries in that glittery evening bag! She’s incredibly well read, resourceful and imperturbable in even the most fraught situations, although, at times, her lack of fear appears to some to verge on recklessness. In fact, she’s just supremely confident she’ll be able to find a way out of any situation.
The members of Rachel’s household – Martha Trueman, Martha’s brother Clifford, and Clifford’s wife Hetty – are devoted to her. Although performing the role of servants – housekeeper, cook and chauffeur come bodyguard – it’s clear they’re the closest Rachel has to a family and may know more than they’re letting on about her past. Rachel is particularly good at utilising their various talents as part of her investigations whether that’s gathering gossip or carrying out a little subterfuge. Crime reporter, Jacob Flint, is once again involved in the story. It’s fairly obvious he has a huge crush on Rachel. He himself admits that from the moment of their first encounter she has fascinated him ‘to the point of obsession’.
The author describes Sepulchre Street as ‘as much a thriller as a detective story’ and the story certainly involves some dramatic scenes, often involving poor Jacob who seems to make a habit of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. There’s also a returning character who’s not your common or garden villain but performs the role of shady behind-the-scenes manipulator.
Rachel’s attempts to discover the reason behind the grisly death of Damaris Gethin, carried out by Damaris’s own hand, involve a number of other characters and plot lines which attract the spotlight for much of the book. Some of these plot lines incorporate quite contemporary themes. Of course, Rachel, who possesses observational and deductive skills to rival Sherlock Holmes, arrives at the answer to the mystery well before everyone else, including, I suspect, most readers. In fact her methodology – ‘I simply follow an idea until I find something that proves that I’m wrong’ – has a distinctly Holmesian flavour.
Sepulchre Street will appeal to fans of classic crime fiction (think Agatha Christie and Dorothy L. Sayers) and those who enjoy the challenge of unravelling an intricate plot. A neat touch is the addition of a ‘cluefinder’ at the end of the book (apparently all the fashion during the ‘Golden Age of Murder’ between the two world wars) in which the author identifies all the clues you very likely missed....more
Rivers of Treason is the third book in the author’s series set in England during the reign of James I and featuring reluctant spy, Daniel Pursglove. IRivers of Treason is the third book in the author’s series set in England during the reign of James I and featuring reluctant spy, Daniel Pursglove. It’s the follow-up to The Drowned City and Traitor in the Ice both of which I’ve read and reviewed. Rivers of Treason is very much a continuation of the story that commenced in The Drowned City so, although there are a few brief recaps of events in earlier books, I would recommend reading the series from the beginning.
Daniel is still involved in the hunt for Spero Pettingar, the only conspirator involved in the failed Gunpowder Plot who evaded capture, and the gruesome interrogations and executions that followed. I confess that until I read the historical notes at the end of the first book I hadn’t realised Spero Pettingar was a real historical figure. In fact, I was convinced his name was an anagram!
The author continues to introduce tantalising details about Daniel’s troubled past. The identity of his father, even his own real name, remain just as much a mystery to him as it does to the reader, although he is beginning to uncover small clues about his childhood. But some of these provoke more questions than answers. Daniel can look after himself and that’s just as well because he has made himself some formidable enemies. There’s one in particular whose hatred for Daniel is very personal. Unfortunately, people who get involved with Daniel, or try to help him, have a habit of ending up dead, often in particularly unpleasant ways. And if Daniel is often perplexed by the motivations behind certain characters’ actions than he’s in good company because the fiendishly intricate plot definitely demands concentration on the part of the reader.
No historical novel set in the period is complete without an appearance by one of the Cecil family; in this case it’s Robert Cecil. I actually felt some sympathy for him having to deal with the petulant, impulsive King James who seems more interested in adding wild beasts to his menagerie than matters of state. Having said that, with the Gunpowder Plot still within recent memory, the King can be forgiven for taking steps to thwart any future attempt. This gives rise to a neat little side plot. I really enjoyed the insight into the Stuart court: the lavish feasts, preening courtiers and extravagant masques. I can recommend reading the fascinating ‘Behind the Scenes of this Novel’ and Glossary (which goes beyond brief definitions) in which you can find out about such things as purveyance, huffcap, Jenny Hanivers and what it means to be ‘bumpsy’.
Weather has played a key part in the previous two books: the Great Flood of 1606 in The Drowned City and the Great Frost of 1607 in Traitor in the Ice. In Rivers of Treason it’s the impact of both of these on livelihoods that is the focus. ‘Food is scarce: half the farmland in the west was ruined by salt in the flood, thousands of cattle and sheep drowned or frozen, winter wheat wiped out by frost, and the land now too sodden to be worked for weeks.’ It’s no wonder there is a pervading atmosphere of unrest.
As always, the author conjures up the sights, sounds and smells of London – the latter being invariably unpleasant. ‘A thick blanket of fog oozed up over the city as dusk crept in. It rose like marsh gas from the open sewers and reeeking cellars, and from the slug-grey river itself.’
Rivers of Treason is an absorbing, intricate historical thriller whose startling conclusion will leave you eager to find out what happens next. Personally, I hope this features more of the mysterious Cimex. (If you would like to be whisked away to an earlier time period, the author also writes medieval novels under the name of Karen Maitland.)...more
Those looking for a light-hearted, cosy historical mystery will find they’ve come to the right place with No Life for a Lady. Violet is a sparky, likeThose looking for a light-hearted, cosy historical mystery will find they’ve come to the right place with No Life for a Lady. Violet is a sparky, likeable character who is determined to resist her father’s efforts to marry her off. There’s fun right from the beginning as Violet recalls the ways she’s managed to fend off potential suitors to date. This includes pushing one such unfortunate into a boating lake and inserting a hot teapot between herself and another.
It was unclear to me why Violet has waited ten years to make a serious attempt to investigate her mother’s disappearance but once she embarks upon it she has no intention of stopping. Except that her chosen detective turns out to be no ‘knight in shining armour’. (Violet, you should have trusted your instincts). Suddenly, Violet wonders if she’s really ready to find out her mother’s secrets and to have them become the talk of the ladies of Hastings, not to mention the men. She’d wanted discretion, wishing to keep the investigation from her father.
Although it makes for some slapstick humour, I wouldn’t have minded if the author had made Violet slightly less ditzy. She’s frequently tripping over things, bumping into lamp posts and even getting locked inside a price of furniture at one point. She’s also rather naive although, to be fair, that does lead to some laugh out loud moments, such as Violet’s errand on behalf of a Mrs Monk, the same lady who corrects a few of Violet’s misapprehensions about ‘marital intimacy’. And, for a prospective detective, Violet is a little quick to reach conclusions based on limited evidence, including about one particular person. However, she’s up for pretty much anything – except house cleaning – leading one character to remark ‘You are the most infuriating female I’ve ever met’.
Set in 1896, there’s a nice depiction of a Victoran seaside town complete with bathing carriages, small boys dressed in sailor suits and ladies promenading in their finery, although I’m not sure the phrase ‘get his finger out’ would have been in common parlance then. If I’m wrong, I stand corrected.
Finding the solution to the mystery of her mother’s disappearance provides Violet with grounds for believing she has what it takes to become a detective. It also signals there is potentially more fun to come in the company of this particular Lady Detective....more
A Gift of Poison is the fourth and final book in Bella Ellis's historical crime series featuring the Brontë sisters. I've read and enjoyed all the preA Gift of Poison is the fourth and final book in Bella Ellis's historical crime series featuring the Brontë sisters. I've read and enjoyed all the previous books in the series - The Vanished Bride, The Diabolical Bones and The Red Monarch.
As in the prevous books, there is a very touching prologue, after which the reader is taken back in time to the summer of 1847 as Charlotte, Emily and Anne embark on what they are determined will be their final case. The sisters take it in turns to relate the story allowing the distinct personalities the author has given them to shine through. For example, Emily is all action, emotion and instinct, someone who doesn't suffer fools gladly. At one point she scornfully observes, 'This will take twice as long as it should now there are men involved'. Anne is methodical, thoughtful, has a forgiving nature and is more inclined to see the best in others. Charlotte is adept at dealing with people and eliciting information.
Whilst being pleased that her sisters' novels have been accepted for publication, Charlotte can't help feeling a little hurt at the rejection of her own novel, The Professor. She is determined to protect her sisters from any hint of scandal - such as their role as 'detectors' - that might jeopardise their success. And she is quietly working away at a new novel, one which will become her most famous book and an enduring classic - Jane Eyre, of course. What I loved is how the author captures Charlotte's compulsion to transfer her ideas to the page, as she snatches every spare moment to quietly work on the novel, sometimes becoming lost in 'a frenzy of creation'.
Branwell Brontë also features in the book although by this point, as in real life, he has become a rather pathetic figure in the final stages of an inevitable decline but still touchingly protective of his sisters. There is also a return appearance by real life novelist, Mrs Catherine Crowe ,who manages to charm everyone she meets, including the sisters' beloved Papa. Charlotte's dear friend, Ellen Nussey, also features in the story and proves to be, if not quite as courageous as the three sisters, extremely organised and adept at recording vital scraps of evidence.
As with the previous books, part of the enjoyment is trying to spot references to people or places in the Brontë's novels. The obvious one is the surname of Abner Lowood but I bet there were others I missed. Some of the seemingly supernatural happenings in this book evoke thoughts of Wuthering Heights and one quite dramatic event appears in Jane Eyre.
Do the sisters find the solution to the mystery? You bet they do, although they have a convoluted journey to get there. The investigation involves the intrepid sisters visiting places young unmarried ladies would not normally be expected to go. And this is Yorkshire so they also have to battle the elements at times. There is also, to Anne's delight, a visit to the seaside resort of Scarborough although for those with any knowledge of the Brontës this will be tinged with sadness being the site of her grave.
In one touching exchange, inspired by the events they have been investigating, the siblings imagine their afterlives: "Your ghost will always be in the pub, Branwell," Emily said. "And yours up on the moor, singing with the wind," Branwell said, fondly. "Charlotte will be ordering everyone around, absolutely furious that no one is paying her any attention," Emily added. "And Anne will just be Anne, a light for others always."
Although I'm sad to see what has been a wonderfully entertaining series come to an end, those familiar with the sadly brief lives of the Brontë sisters will understand, given the year in which the book is set, why this must be their final case....more
Under a Veiled Moon is the second in Karen Odden’s Inspector Michael Corravan historical mystery series, the follow-up to Down a Dark River, a book I Under a Veiled Moon is the second in Karen Odden’s Inspector Michael Corravan historical mystery series, the follow-up to Down a Dark River, a book I very much enjoyed. In fact, I ended my review of that book by saying I hoped it was the first of many cases for Corravan so it was a pleasure to be reunited with him, as well as other characters from the first book such as his former partner, the resourceful and diligent Gordon Stiles, his just a little bit more than a friend, novelist Belinda Gale, and the Doyle family who took him in many years before. Belinda is one of my favourite characters. She’s an independent woman who has made her own way in the world and who now has connections with influential figures in London society. Perhaps her greatest gift though is her understanding of Corravan’s needs – and not just his physical ones either. As he remarks at one point, ‘It certainly wasn’t the first time she had presented me with an insight that steered an entire investigation into a channel I hadn’t explored’. (Notice the river-related metaphors by the way?)
Once again, the reader gets a clear sense of Corravan the policeman – determined, resilient and with a strong sense of justice. As he says himself, ‘My persistance usually yielded results.’ But we also get an insight into the man he has been, which includes pickpocket, prize-fighter and dockhand. His past life has not been without tragedy and he has regrets about things he has done, or failed to do. All this makes him a satisfyingly well-rounded character. Corravan’s Irish heritage also forms an important part of the story given that the political situation relating to Ireland is a key element of the book’s plot.
The real life collision of the Princess Alice pleasure boat with the collier Bywell Castle, which resulted in many fatalities, forms one strand of a story into which the author weaves political intrigue, racial prejudice, gang warfare and acts of breathtaking wickedness carried out as a result of a perverted philosophy.
As before, the River Thames plays a key role in the book, its filthy, murky waters providing an apt metaphor for the seedy goings on in the sprawling city through which it flows. It plays an instrumental role as well, with knowledge of its tidal ebbs and flows proving crucial to events. One memorable and rather moving scene sees Corravan take to the river to perform a particularly tragic homecoming. The vivid descriptions of the thoroughfares and alleyways of London – in particular Whitechapel – and of the sights, sounds and smells (ugh) of the city all help to create a great sense of place. You wouldn’t necessarily want to have lived there yourself but you can definitely imagine what it would have been like for those who did.
If you love historical mysteries with an intricate plot and authentic period atmosphere, then I have no hesitation in recommending Under a Veiled Moon. Actually, I do; read Down a Dark River first. To my delight, the book’s last line suggests more cases – and challenges- lie ahead for Corravan, and possibly an answer to a question that has haunted him....more
The story unfolds at a pace that means there’s plenty of time to immerse yourself in the sights and smells of Elizabethan London and its theatres. TheThe story unfolds at a pace that means there’s plenty of time to immerse yourself in the sights and smells of Elizabethan London and its theatres. The latter was an aspect of the book I really enjoyed and which I thought the author brought brilliantly to life, from the audience of one-penny groundlings and ‘bum-cushions’ (those who could afford seats) to the behind-the-scenes preparation for performances involving, amongst other things, a stuffed dog and Richard III’s hump. The story takes the reader to the grimy streets and alleyways of London, the squalor of Bridewell and the rumbustious goings on at the Mermaid tavern, as well as the homes of the nobility attired in their outrageously opulent garb. Amongst the latter there are goings-on that would definitely not meet with the approval of Puritans.
Magdalen makes a plucky and resourceful heroine – and she needs to be. Not only has she been accused of a murder she did not commit but she finds herself caught up in the political intrigue and religious turmoil of the period. Forced to turn detective in order to save her own skin, her investigation throws up a plethora of suspects and possible motives including revenge, jealousy, blackmail, corruption and bigotry. There’s a neat summary of the main suspects and why they might have committed the crime towards the end of the book. Alongside all this Magdalen has to repel the unwanted advances of her employer (also her landlord) and support herself and her ailing grandmother who is slowly losing her grip on reality, a dangerous situation when one loose word could spell disaster. It’s not surprising Magdalen feels very alone and vulnerable. ‘Once, the Theatre had been her sanctuary from the troubles of the world, and then death had crept inside and it no longer felt a safe haven.’
Woven into the story of Magdalen’s quest to clear her name are real historical figures including the playwrights William Shakespeare, Christopher Marlowe and Thomas Kyd – all competing for noble patronage and the demands of bloodthirsty theatregoers – and actor and theatre owner, Richard Burbage. And of course no novel set in the Elizabethan period would be complete without a reference to one of the Cecil family.
The book ends with some surprising revelations. Not just the identity of the person responsible for the murder but about Magdalen herself, leaving plenty of possible storylines to be explored in future books....more
The book's clever title references the plot - the uttering [putting into circulation] of counterfeit notes, a capital offence at the time - but also tThe book's clever title references the plot - the uttering [putting into circulation] of counterfeit notes, a capital offence at the time - but also the changes coming to Sam Plank's life and career as the role of magistrate's constable is supplanted by the new Metropolitan Police. For Sam's junior, William, there's also the prospect of change; a promising career in the new police force and an addition to his young family. Another interesting aspect of the book is the notion of whether a person can ever change, for example leaving behind a life of crime, and what might motivate that change.
As well as a clear interest in financial instruments, it's evident the author has fully researched the period in which the story is set. (The glossary at the end of the book provides useful explanations of some of the more unfamiliar terms.) The streets and taverns which Sam and William frequent in the course of their enquiries - along with more unusual places such as a Horse Bazaar - are vividly brought to life.
Thanks to his decades of experience, Sam has amassed a number of useful contacts whose help and information he is able to call upon in solving the case. I imagine many of these are characters who have appeared in previous books. His reputation for probity gets him access to places to which many others wouldn't, notably Newgate Prison. It also provides a stark contrast to the disreputable behaviour of others, demonstrating that misconduct in public institutions and cover-ups are nothing new.
I loved the tender relationship between Sam and his wife, Martha. And Martha's unerring ability to detect when someone is telling the truth comes in handy. But no-one is more surprised than Martha when Sam proves to be something of a matchmaker. He's a lovely character and I'll leave you with one of Martha's wise observations. 'Do you know how wonderful it is, Sam, that after three decades in your uniform you can still see the good in people who have done bad things? I pray that you never change.'
If you're a fan of historical police procedurals, I'm confident you'll enjoy Notes of Change. Better still, don't be like me; start the series from the beginning....more
I first came across Bradcote and Catchpoll when I read River of Sins, the seventh book in the author’s historical crime series set in 12th century WorI first came across Bradcote and Catchpoll when I read River of Sins, the seventh book in the author’s historical crime series set in 12th century Worcester. That was back in December 2020 and since then I’ve devoured both the subsequent books in the series – Blood Runs Thicker and Wolf at the Door. Fortunately, for fans of the series such as myself, Sarah Hawkswood produces fresh instalments at a rate of knots.
A Taste for Killing takes up directly from events at the end of the previous book with Undersheriff Hugh Bradecote and his wife anxiously awaiting the birth of their second child. Mindful of Bradecote’s situation, Serjeant Catchpoll initially takes on the investigation into the murder of wealthy burgess, Godfrey Bowyer, with only the assistance of recently promoted Underserjeant Walkelin. Although it appears there are only a few individuals who would have had the opportunity to administer the poison, the murdered man had no shortage of enemies in the city.
The author gives us a real taste of what it must have been like to live in 12th century Worcester, conjuring up the sights, sounds and smells, as well as a sense of the local dialect (although Bradecote being a lord of the manor speaks Norman to his peers, or ‘Foreign’ as the locals call it).
Over the course of the series, the duo of Bradecote and Catchpoll has evolved into a trio with the addition of Walkelin who has grown from eager apprentice to becoming an integral part of the team, honing his ‘serjeanting senses’ along the way. He’s observant, has a good sense of intuition and can mingle with servants and traders. Even after all this time, Catchpoll still casts a proprietorial, sometimes approving, eye over Bradecote’s interrogation techniques whilst recognising that Bradecote’s rank can open doors that would otherwise be closed to him. Not so much good cop, bad cop as toff cop, common cop. What all three share is tenacity. As Walkelin observes, ‘Oft times we are called the lord Sheriff’s law hounds, and like a hound, we cannot leave a scent uninvestigated, a warm trail to go cold without us sniffin’ at it.’
The domestic side is not ignored either. Bradcote’s concern for his wife is endearing and Catchpoll has a caring wife always ready with a cup of warmed cider or advice to wrap up warm. Walkelin’s hopes of matrimony rest on his persuasive skills but it’s surprising what a way with preparing the ever-present pottage can do to change minds.
The unravelling of the mystery is nicely managed with a few red herrings along the way and a plethora of possible motives. As is often the case, Catchpoll’s local knowledge of family relationships and past grievances, as well as his ability to have his ear to the ground for gossip, are important in solving the mystery. His reputation as ‘a wily old bastard’ helps too. But young Walkelin plays his part as well, uncovering the nugget of information that proves someone is not what they profess to be.
If you’re looking for a enjoyable mystery with a well-constructed plot, colourful characters and interesting historical detail then I can heartily recommend A Taste of Killing. Or if you really want to indulge yourself, why not go back and read the whole series from the beginning (as I hope to do one day)....more
A cross between a historical crime novel and a collection of short stories, Crow Court is inventive in structure and style. If, like me, you don’t getA cross between a historical crime novel and a collection of short stories, Crow Court is inventive in structure and style. If, like me, you don’t get on with the first chapter which is written in the present tense using short, clipped sentences, do stick with it because, with a few exceptions, subsequent chapters are more conventional in style.
Set in the small Dorset town of Wimborne, the story unfolds over 20 years starting in 1840 with the murder of a choirmaster. If you’re looking for a conventional whodunnit, you won’t find it here. Crow Court is less about finding the solution to the murder of Matthew Ellis, Wimborne’s choirmaster, than the consequences of the event over the months and years that follow. In fact, although the reader knows that a murder has occurred, the rest of the locals don’t. They just know the choirmaster has disappeared. Since he was known locally as ‘Buggermaster’ and was thought to have caused the suicide of a choir boy, not many people are that bothered by his disappearance. However rumours are the currency of a small village and because of their actions or their connection to the choirmaster, four men come under suspicion.
What follows is a kind of 6 Degrees of Separation as various characters appear in a series of interlinked stories. Some of the connections are quite tenuous – they know someone who knew someone else who got their boots made by the village cordwainer – whilst others are more direct. It was fun spotting names that sounded familiar and then thinking, ‘Ah, I remember, he’s the brother of so-and-so’s friend’. Along the way, we learn quite a lot about Dorset life in the 1840s and 1850s, as well as about the local landscape.
One of the interesting features of the book is the way the author plays with different narrative styles. A good example is in the chapter, ‘The Third Person’. Divided into three parts, the first is written in the second person, the second in the first person and the final part – you guessed it – in the third person. And some of the stories, such as ‘Art’s Last Laugh’, feature Dorset dialect. (There’s a helpful glossary at the end of the book for those who don’t know a gawk hammer from a doughbeaked cowheart.)
Some of the stories border on digressions and could easily be read as standalone short stories. ‘The Voice O’ Strangers’ which describes the experience of a ferocious storm in the South Atlantic is one example. However there’s (just) enough of the mystery threaded through each of them, or connections with key characters, to maintain the reader’s interest and they are all carefully crafted. When the culprit is revealed I suspect I won’t be the only reader to go back and read the opening chapters again....more
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