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Dr Jack Cuthbert Mysteries #2
The Moon's More Feeble Fire
The Moon’s More Feeble Fire‘She was someone’s daughter.’In 1930, the killing of a Soho prostitute is hardly a priority for Scotland Yard. But when a second similar murder comes to light, and then a third, everything changes. DCI Mowbray now has a new Ripper on his hands, and he needs Dr Jack Cuthbert’s help.Cuthbert and his team find themselves in a nightmare world of people trafficking, prostitution, and drug use amongst the upper classes. Using all his forensic skills, Cuthbert sets out to solve one of the most baffling cases of his career. But in the end, there is one final question that remains unanswered.That is, until a faded photograph reveals its tragic secret.
- GenresHistorical FictionCrime
281 pages, Paperback
Published February 15, 2024
6 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
Allan Gaw
32 books22 followersAllan Gaw is a Scot who lives and works near Glasgow. He studied medicine and is a pathologist by training but a writer by inclination. Having worked in the NHS and universities in Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and the US, he now devotes his time to writing.
Most of his published work to date is non-fiction. These include medical textbooks and regular magazine articles on topics as diverse as the thalidomide story, the medical challenges of space travel and the medico-legal consequences of the Hillsborough disaster.
More recently, he has been writing short stories, poetry and novels. He won the UK Classical Association Creative Writing Competition, the International Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize, the International Globe Soup 7 day Writing Challenge and was runner-up in the Glencairn Glass/Bloody Scotland Short Crime Fiction Competition. He has also had prose published in the literary anthologies, From Glasgow to Saturn and anthologies and the Edinburgh Literary Salon.
His poetry has been published by Dreich, Soor Ploom Press, Black Bough Poetry, SCAP and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. His debut poetry collection, Love & Other Diseases, was published in 2023 by Seahorse Publications. His second poetry collection, The Sounds Men Make, was published in 2025, also by Seahorse.
His debut novel, The Silent House of Sleep, won the 2024 Bloody Scotland Debut novel of the year. His second novel, The Moon’s More Feeble Fire, was longlisted for the McIlvanney Prize The third book in the Dr Jack Cuthbert series, To the Shades Descend is out now and the fourth, The Shadows and the Dust, will be released in January 2026.
You can read more about him and his work at his website: https://researchet.wordpress.com
Most of his published work to date is non-fiction. These include medical textbooks and regular magazine articles on topics as diverse as the thalidomide story, the medical challenges of space travel and the medico-legal consequences of the Hillsborough disaster.
More recently, he has been writing short stories, poetry and novels. He won the UK Classical Association Creative Writing Competition, the International Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize, the International Globe Soup 7 day Writing Challenge and was runner-up in the Glencairn Glass/Bloody Scotland Short Crime Fiction Competition. He has also had prose published in the literary anthologies, From Glasgow to Saturn and anthologies and the Edinburgh Literary Salon.
His poetry has been published by Dreich, Soor Ploom Press, Black Bough Poetry, SCAP and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. His debut poetry collection, Love & Other Diseases, was published in 2023 by Seahorse Publications. His second poetry collection, The Sounds Men Make, was published in 2025, also by Seahorse.
His debut novel, The Silent House of Sleep, won the 2024 Bloody Scotland Debut novel of the year. His second novel, The Moon’s More Feeble Fire, was longlisted for the McIlvanney Prize The third book in the Dr Jack Cuthbert series, To the Shades Descend is out now and the fourth, The Shadows and the Dust, will be released in January 2026.
You can read more about him and his work at his website: https://researchet.wordpress.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 15, 2024
Happy Publication Day!!🎉
Another fantastic book by this Author. Number two in the series and just as good as the last.
This time we are met with an even more grisly set of murders where we delve into the murky world of 1930s prostitution in soho, London.
We have two timelines here again like the last book and this works so well. Reading one you are anxious and racing towards reading the other.
The subject matter spares no detail in the lives of these women and it is an eye opener to just how dangerous and horrible it is for them.
Each individual character is very believable for a work of fiction and you can tell the Author has put in the reasearch here and brought us a very believable and shocking story.
This has a Jack the Ripper mixed with Poirot type feel for me that left me guessing till the very last pages. Twists and turns are in each chapter and the ending was spectacular.
This can be read without reading the first but i would suggest starting with the first to be introduced to the characters properly. It has a whole different story and bits not to be missed.
Cuthbert and Madame Smiths characters are simply beautfiul together and we learn a little bit more regarding their background in this.
Fab Fab Fab! Cant wait to read the next instalment.
Many thanks to Allan Gaw for gifting me a copy of his new book. I am leaving my review voluntarily. Please check my other review of the first book too👍
Another fantastic book by this Author. Number two in the series and just as good as the last.
This time we are met with an even more grisly set of murders where we delve into the murky world of 1930s prostitution in soho, London.
We have two timelines here again like the last book and this works so well. Reading one you are anxious and racing towards reading the other.
The subject matter spares no detail in the lives of these women and it is an eye opener to just how dangerous and horrible it is for them.
Each individual character is very believable for a work of fiction and you can tell the Author has put in the reasearch here and brought us a very believable and shocking story.
This has a Jack the Ripper mixed with Poirot type feel for me that left me guessing till the very last pages. Twists and turns are in each chapter and the ending was spectacular.
This can be read without reading the first but i would suggest starting with the first to be introduced to the characters properly. It has a whole different story and bits not to be missed.
Cuthbert and Madame Smiths characters are simply beautfiul together and we learn a little bit more regarding their background in this.
Fab Fab Fab! Cant wait to read the next instalment.
Many thanks to Allan Gaw for gifting me a copy of his new book. I am leaving my review voluntarily. Please check my other review of the first book too👍
February 4, 2024
This is the follow up to ‘The Silent House of Sleep’ and it is just as brilliant, packed full of historical and scientific details, a great mystery to boot and bags of tension! This is the second book in the Dr Jack Cuthbert Mysteries but it can be easily read as a stand-alone. I do recommend reading the first book though as it was a fabulous read.
In 1930 the killing of a Soho prostitute is hardly a priority for Scotland Yard but when Dr Jack Cuthbert is called to view the crime scene and the body in his role as a pathologist, he seems to think that there is more to it then is first seen. Especially when a second and third body turn up, is there a new Ripper on their hands. Cuthbert believes that the use of white drugs is associated with the killings and begins to look at drug offenders as maybe being the killer.
This book is packed full of historical details that make the story feel really authentic. But for myself it the historical scientific details that make this series as it gives it such a distinctive and focused voice. This isn’t surprising though as the author has worked as a pathologist for many years and it allows him to pass on his extensive knowledge to Cuthbert. On this outing we delve into the world of Soho and its prostitution, but also how the upper classes visited the jazz clubs in this area as part of their hedonistic lifestyles. It was a great juxtaposition between the have and have nots of society and really delved into the social issues surrounding these themes. As some who studied the social history of this period at university, I can say with authority that the details and themes really ring true and are well developed and put together!
This time round we find out a bit more about Cuthbert younger colleague Simon as the book opens with his wedding to Sarah. I liked getting to know more about him and their fears about their new lives together. But the star of the show is Cuthbert - very distinguished and educated, formidable in his intelligence but yet you can’t help but feel sympathy for him, having to hide his true nature. He is a brilliant protagonist and I can’t wait to see what happens to him next.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
In 1930 the killing of a Soho prostitute is hardly a priority for Scotland Yard but when Dr Jack Cuthbert is called to view the crime scene and the body in his role as a pathologist, he seems to think that there is more to it then is first seen. Especially when a second and third body turn up, is there a new Ripper on their hands. Cuthbert believes that the use of white drugs is associated with the killings and begins to look at drug offenders as maybe being the killer.
This book is packed full of historical details that make the story feel really authentic. But for myself it the historical scientific details that make this series as it gives it such a distinctive and focused voice. This isn’t surprising though as the author has worked as a pathologist for many years and it allows him to pass on his extensive knowledge to Cuthbert. On this outing we delve into the world of Soho and its prostitution, but also how the upper classes visited the jazz clubs in this area as part of their hedonistic lifestyles. It was a great juxtaposition between the have and have nots of society and really delved into the social issues surrounding these themes. As some who studied the social history of this period at university, I can say with authority that the details and themes really ring true and are well developed and put together!
This time round we find out a bit more about Cuthbert younger colleague Simon as the book opens with his wedding to Sarah. I liked getting to know more about him and their fears about their new lives together. But the star of the show is Cuthbert - very distinguished and educated, formidable in his intelligence but yet you can’t help but feel sympathy for him, having to hide his true nature. He is a brilliant protagonist and I can’t wait to see what happens to him next.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
September 5, 2025
This is the second book in the Dr Jack Cuthbert Mystery series. This was such a sad story, and I desperately wanted a different outcome. However, it was a story that many young girls and women continue to face, despite the historical setting of the book and it was told in a powerful way. I don't want to give anything away as it is a book best read blind... but it does tackle some sensitive issues.
The author really put a lot of heart and emotion into this and I loved Cuthbert's compassion and understanding for the women involved, wanting to give them dignity and respect that they hadn't been shown in life. Cuthbert is such a great character and I enjoyed seeing him working with Sargent Baker again. Mowbray is growing on me but he still has a lot to learn from those two!
I liked that we got to see the main characters developed further and I would recommend reading the books in order so you can see the characters grow over the series. Both books in the series have a great plot and I was completely invested.
This series is so well written. The author provides lots of detail of historical methods used within forensic pathology which I found really interesting. I also like the historical setting and references to that period in history. I am hooked and I am already excited for book 3!
Huge thanks to the author, Birlinn Books, Bloody Scotland and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book to review.
The author really put a lot of heart and emotion into this and I loved Cuthbert's compassion and understanding for the women involved, wanting to give them dignity and respect that they hadn't been shown in life. Cuthbert is such a great character and I enjoyed seeing him working with Sargent Baker again. Mowbray is growing on me but he still has a lot to learn from those two!
I liked that we got to see the main characters developed further and I would recommend reading the books in order so you can see the characters grow over the series. Both books in the series have a great plot and I was completely invested.
This series is so well written. The author provides lots of detail of historical methods used within forensic pathology which I found really interesting. I also like the historical setting and references to that period in history. I am hooked and I am already excited for book 3!
Huge thanks to the author, Birlinn Books, Bloody Scotland and Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the book to review.
August 31, 2025
This is the second in the Dr Jack Cuthbert series of novels and in this instalment he is called on to assist in the investigation into the murder of several prostitutes in the Soho area of London. Jack is a Scottish pathologist who is well versed in crime scene examination and Forensic Science developments and uses his skills to assist DCI Mowbray and his team of Detectives at Scotland Yard. However Jack has a dark secret that he must keep hidden, as in 1930’s London his homosexuality would not be deemed acceptable.
I really enjoyed the first novel in the series which along with the investigation it also dealt with Jack’s backstory including his service during WW1 and his subsequent PTSD. This one however felt a little flat and for me didn’t have the same ‘spark’ to the writing that the debut had. There were a couple of twists to the tale but one seemed well telegraphed while the latter was a bit of a surprise. I felt that the elements missing from this novel, that made the debut so good, didn’t surface until the final chapter which was quite brilliant.
There are another two novels in the series and it’ll be interesting to see where Jack’s journey goes from here and whether Gaw manages to capture the essence of what made the debut so good.
I really enjoyed the first novel in the series which along with the investigation it also dealt with Jack’s backstory including his service during WW1 and his subsequent PTSD. This one however felt a little flat and for me didn’t have the same ‘spark’ to the writing that the debut had. There were a couple of twists to the tale but one seemed well telegraphed while the latter was a bit of a surprise. I felt that the elements missing from this novel, that made the debut so good, didn’t surface until the final chapter which was quite brilliant.
There are another two novels in the series and it’ll be interesting to see where Jack’s journey goes from here and whether Gaw manages to capture the essence of what made the debut so good.
February 11, 2024
Captivating Continuation of the Jack Cuthbert Series.
Allan Gaw's "The Moon's More Feeble Fire," the second instalment in the Jack Cuthbert series, delivers another gripping adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Jack’s London is vivid and mysterious, and this case is just as intriguing as the first. Loved it!
Allan Gaw's "The Moon's More Feeble Fire," the second instalment in the Jack Cuthbert series, delivers another gripping adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Jack’s London is vivid and mysterious, and this case is just as intriguing as the first. Loved it!
February 11, 2024
The Jack Cuthbert mysteries are really shaping up to be one of my favourite series. This second book is even better than the first - enthralling and beautifully written. Very highly recommended; can't wait for number 3!
August 19, 2025
Ok, pretty thin plot wise. Engaging characters however.
April 2, 2025
The Moon’s More Feeble Fire by Allan Gaw is book 2 in the Dr Jack Cuthbert series. I read Allan’s first novel, The Silent House of Sleep, about the Scottish pathologist, a few months ago and found it such a gripping read. I was then very keen to read the next in the series and was not disappointed. Having been a pathologist for many years, Allan writes with authority. The story mainly covers the period 1922-1930 and is set in London. I like the style of writing, and the place women held in society at the time is portrayed very well. Needless to say, prostitutes are at the bottom of society, so when one is found murdered, Scotland Yard initially are not inclined to investigate until Jack uncovers some more evidence and calls on DCI Mowbray. He fears there is a new Ripper in town. It was fascinating reading about this time, between the Wars, and the morals, or lack thereof, and behaviour of the ‘upper class’. It involves prostitution, people-trafficking and drugs and then murder. Dr Cuthbert is haunted by his past but certainly leaves an impression on those he has dealings with. He is a wonderful character. It was another gripping read from Allan Gaw and I certainly look forward to continuing with this series.
September 23, 2025
This is our second outing with pathologist Dr Jack Cuthbert. In The Moon's More Feeble Fire, Cuthbert is called to examine the body of a woman, a working girl. Whilst Dr Cuthbert cares deeply about every case he works, the police don't always feel the same, especially when it comes to prostitutes. Until there is another murder in the same fashion...
Jack Cuthbert is such an interesting character. Tall, handsome, polite, well educated, deep thinking, caring and very thorough in his work. His attention to detail is second to none and the police he works alongside have grown to respect him because they know he will go The extra mile for them, and he always has something useful to contribute. But he carries a weight on his shoulders, a sadness that we, the readers, can see all too clearly. He's a very engaging character who carries the reader along with him every step of the way. What touches me is how caring and respectful he is with every victim, every body he deals with. He's the same with living people, of course - kind and respectful regardless of their background or status in society. And I love his relationships with his assistant, Simon, his housekeeper and, particularly, with Sergeant Baker, a good policeman who wants to be a better one.
The case is an intriguing one. The women have all been killed in a similar fashion and there are a couple of clues. But with these women servicing so many customers every day, it a huge suspect pool. With Cuthbert's help, the police do narrow down their suspect list but it's still a baffling case. I loved learning about the pathology procedures of the time - the processes the followed, the tests they conducted, that kind of thing - it's fascinating.
It's really well written. I love the quiet moments we share with Cuthbert, even the times when he's struggling, or is focusing on his daily ritual. He's such a deep thinker and that really came across through the writing. As does the author's knowledge of pathology and the research he's done. I think in my review of the first book I referred to it as a 'quieter' read than my usual stuff, and the same applies here. What I mean is that it's not action filled in the traditional sense. But don't misunderstand me, there is plenty going on, it's just not all action and violence. It's more considered.
The Moon's More Feeble Fire is a worthy follow up to The Silent House of Sleep. A well written, intriguing mystery with fully fleshed out, engaging characters. It's great to have Dr Jack Cuthbert back and I look forward to catching up with him again in book three.
Jack Cuthbert is such an interesting character. Tall, handsome, polite, well educated, deep thinking, caring and very thorough in his work. His attention to detail is second to none and the police he works alongside have grown to respect him because they know he will go The extra mile for them, and he always has something useful to contribute. But he carries a weight on his shoulders, a sadness that we, the readers, can see all too clearly. He's a very engaging character who carries the reader along with him every step of the way. What touches me is how caring and respectful he is with every victim, every body he deals with. He's the same with living people, of course - kind and respectful regardless of their background or status in society. And I love his relationships with his assistant, Simon, his housekeeper and, particularly, with Sergeant Baker, a good policeman who wants to be a better one.
The case is an intriguing one. The women have all been killed in a similar fashion and there are a couple of clues. But with these women servicing so many customers every day, it a huge suspect pool. With Cuthbert's help, the police do narrow down their suspect list but it's still a baffling case. I loved learning about the pathology procedures of the time - the processes the followed, the tests they conducted, that kind of thing - it's fascinating.
It's really well written. I love the quiet moments we share with Cuthbert, even the times when he's struggling, or is focusing on his daily ritual. He's such a deep thinker and that really came across through the writing. As does the author's knowledge of pathology and the research he's done. I think in my review of the first book I referred to it as a 'quieter' read than my usual stuff, and the same applies here. What I mean is that it's not action filled in the traditional sense. But don't misunderstand me, there is plenty going on, it's just not all action and violence. It's more considered.
The Moon's More Feeble Fire is a worthy follow up to The Silent House of Sleep. A well written, intriguing mystery with fully fleshed out, engaging characters. It's great to have Dr Jack Cuthbert back and I look forward to catching up with him again in book three.
April 18, 2024
The Moon’s More Feeble Fire is the second book in this excellent series by Allan Gaw to feature Dr Jack Cuthbert, a Scottish pathologist living and working in London in the 1930s. At first, the murder of a prostitute in Soho does not warrant much police attention, until Jack Cuthbert notices a puncture mark on the body. At this time only the affluent upper classes would have been able to access ‘white drugs’ (cocaine, heroin and morphine) as they could only be obtained from doctors (either legally or otherwise). As more bodies are found with a similar distinctive mark, the police are now searching for what we would call a serial killer today.
In flashbacks, a young French girl is brought to London and forced into prostitution. She gives birth to twins who are taken to the Foundling Hospital and cruelly split up. At fourteen, Lizzie escapes after discovering she has a twin brother, and goes in search of him. We are left wondering if the two threads are connected.
In this book we learn more about Jack’s assistant, Simon Morgenthal, whose wedding takes place at the beginning of the story. Here Jack is introduced to a group of wealthy young socialites whose behaviour leaves a lot to be desired. They are known to frequent jazz clubs in Soho and soon come under the scrutiny of DCI Mowbray and DS Baker.
The 1930s is a fascinating period in history, and themes explored in this novel such as people trafficking and drug use are just as prevalent today. The story is well researched and highlights how the police and pathologists at this time had a lot less information at their disposal, which gives the investigation a different feel. I really like the character of Jack Cuthbert and look forward to reading the next book in this unusual new series.
April 19, 2024
The second in the Dr Jack Cuthbert Mysteries and just as good as the first. It reads well as a stand-alone but I recommend reading book one first as it’s so good. This time there are two distinct threads to the story. The search for a killer, who is violently mutilating dead prostitutes and story of a baby who grows up determined to make a good life for herself but after being released from the foundling home, at aged 14, is almost immediately forced into a life of prostitution. We also learn more about Jack’s assistant, Simon who is recently married. The research was clearly meticulous and the writing truely makes you picture everything you are reading.
Briefly, Jack is now firmly ensconced in his new life in London and is called to view the body of a dead prostitute in situ before taking it for pathological investigation. It is 1930 and a dead prostitute is not high priority for the police that is until the killings escalate and Jack notices a puncture mark. At this time only the wealthy had access to ‘white drugs’. Do the police, led by DCI Mowbray, have another Ripper to contend with?
The author doesn’t hold back on his descriptions of the life of the lower class Soho prostitutes so do be aware, it’s not pretty. There are some very good red herrings and I was well into the book before I began to have any inkling about who the killer might be. Jack Cuthbert is an excellent protagonist, although he can seem quite gruff at times he is a caring and dedicated pathologist who has to hide his true sexual identity, so immerses himself in his work. A very good historical thriller with great descriptions of society at both ends of the scale, full of tension and a gripping read. I’m really enjoying this series.
Briefly, Jack is now firmly ensconced in his new life in London and is called to view the body of a dead prostitute in situ before taking it for pathological investigation. It is 1930 and a dead prostitute is not high priority for the police that is until the killings escalate and Jack notices a puncture mark. At this time only the wealthy had access to ‘white drugs’. Do the police, led by DCI Mowbray, have another Ripper to contend with?
The author doesn’t hold back on his descriptions of the life of the lower class Soho prostitutes so do be aware, it’s not pretty. There are some very good red herrings and I was well into the book before I began to have any inkling about who the killer might be. Jack Cuthbert is an excellent protagonist, although he can seem quite gruff at times he is a caring and dedicated pathologist who has to hide his true sexual identity, so immerses himself in his work. A very good historical thriller with great descriptions of society at both ends of the scale, full of tension and a gripping read. I’m really enjoying this series.
August 29, 2025
I loved this book. I am so glad I jumped at reading it, especially with it being set for the Scottish crim book of the y ar. I just had a feeling and it definitely loved up to it.
The book is packed with suspense and really keeps you on edge wondering what is happening to the victims and more importantly, why they are doing it. I was trying to work out who was behind it, right alongside Cuthbert.
We know 1930s Soho is not exactly the nicest of areas and Cuthbert is doing his best to work with his skills and very little tools, as most of it was based on observation. That made this book really exciting, as I was trying to notice the wee details myself, ready to catch someone or something out before we were told. I really enjoyed the excitement of it and liked how the author pieces everything together. A very interesting and exciting read for sure.
The book is packed with suspense and really keeps you on edge wondering what is happening to the victims and more importantly, why they are doing it. I was trying to work out who was behind it, right alongside Cuthbert.
We know 1930s Soho is not exactly the nicest of areas and Cuthbert is doing his best to work with his skills and very little tools, as most of it was based on observation. That made this book really exciting, as I was trying to notice the wee details myself, ready to catch someone or something out before we were told. I really enjoyed the excitement of it and liked how the author pieces everything together. A very interesting and exciting read for sure.
September 1, 2025
Having absolutely loved the first book in this series, I couldn’t wait to dive into the next one — and it did not disappoint!
Dr. Jack Cuthbert is such a brilliantly written character — a talented pathologist with depth and intrigue. Alan Gaw’s knowledge of pathology and its history really shines through, but what makes these books even more special is how beautifully he captures 1930s London, its atmosphere, and the stark social divides of people at the time.
I devoured this just as quickly as the first, and once again, it’s one of those stories that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
I honestly cannot wait to get started on the next two books in the series!
Dr. Jack Cuthbert is such a brilliantly written character — a talented pathologist with depth and intrigue. Alan Gaw’s knowledge of pathology and its history really shines through, but what makes these books even more special is how beautifully he captures 1930s London, its atmosphere, and the stark social divides of people at the time.
I devoured this just as quickly as the first, and once again, it’s one of those stories that lingers with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
I honestly cannot wait to get started on the next two books in the series!
September 20, 2025
Book 2 in the Dr Jack Cuthbert Mystery series, and it’s going from strength to strength.
Dr Cuthbert is such a great character and this book sees him call on DCI Mowbray to investigate on the murder of women society deems unworthy.
As well as a gripping mystery the book has fascinating historical insights, the way in which prostitution is described in 1930 is horrific and very dark.
It was good learning more about the characters in this book and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
You could read as a standalone but you’d be missing out on a great series.
#Ad #LBTCrew #Bookstagram #FreeBookReview
Dr Cuthbert is such a great character and this book sees him call on DCI Mowbray to investigate on the murder of women society deems unworthy.
As well as a gripping mystery the book has fascinating historical insights, the way in which prostitution is described in 1930 is horrific and very dark.
It was good learning more about the characters in this book and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
You could read as a standalone but you’d be missing out on a great series.
#Ad #LBTCrew #Bookstagram #FreeBookReview
July 1, 2025
The second in the excellent Jack Cuthbert series and I am really looking forward to the third
A dual narrative with Jack doing his meticulous 1930s path lab work in one while the other examines the plight of women working as street based sex workers. Along
the way we also take in PTSD, class issues, drug abuse, the LGB situation at the time, marriage advice ….
For a relatively slim novel, this one is as jam packed full with treats as a Christmas pudding. Highly recommend
A dual narrative with Jack doing his meticulous 1930s path lab work in one while the other examines the plight of women working as street based sex workers. Along
the way we also take in PTSD, class issues, drug abuse, the LGB situation at the time, marriage advice ….
For a relatively slim novel, this one is as jam packed full with treats as a Christmas pudding. Highly recommend
August 28, 2025
4.5. I like this series. Dr Jack Cuthbert is interesting as a character and brilliant as a pathologist. Needless to say, Things were a lot different in 1930 as far as solving crime and social mores. The historical details are as interesting as the crime. I was a little disappointed in the reason for the murders. Did the murderer have to take that final step?
I liked learning more about Simon too and third work together.
I liked learning more about Simon too and third work together.
August 31, 2025
The Moon’s More Feeble Fire by Allan Gaw.
Dr Jack Cuthbert Mysteries Book 2.
I really enjoyed this book. I did like the cover and blurb of this book. I enjoyed the first book. I did like Jack and Simon. Even Sergeant Baker. I am really enjoying this series. I liked the writing style and the story. Even the setting. The time was different. It made a nice change. I have never read anything from this timeline before. I was surprised by who the killer was. I am looking forward to the next book.
Dr Jack Cuthbert Mysteries Book 2.
I really enjoyed this book. I did like the cover and blurb of this book. I enjoyed the first book. I did like Jack and Simon. Even Sergeant Baker. I am really enjoying this series. I liked the writing style and the story. Even the setting. The time was different. It made a nice change. I have never read anything from this timeline before. I was surprised by who the killer was. I am looking forward to the next book.
September 10, 2025
I'm back with the second book in this new and exciting mystery series that looked just too good to resist!
The Dr Jack Cuthbert Mysteries currently contains 3 published books and with a fourth in the planning for release early next year, I knew that I wanted to catch up with these in preparation.
As I said in my review for book 1, I'm not a huge historical fiction reader - but I ctualky really don't mind this when set against a thriller genre too.
This book is set in 1930's Soho - not the nicest of areas. So, when a prostitute is found dead, Scotland Yard aren't too concerned.
But as more and more bodies add up, Cuthbert has his work cut out for him and the team.
This was a complex and tense case that had me making theories throughout - only to find that some development would change my thinking.
As we meet new characters, I was just waiting for them to give me a sign to not trust them.
This was another dark and gritty read that had me hooked from the start.
I can't wait to read the next ....
The Dr Jack Cuthbert Mysteries currently contains 3 published books and with a fourth in the planning for release early next year, I knew that I wanted to catch up with these in preparation.
As I said in my review for book 1, I'm not a huge historical fiction reader - but I ctualky really don't mind this when set against a thriller genre too.
This book is set in 1930's Soho - not the nicest of areas. So, when a prostitute is found dead, Scotland Yard aren't too concerned.
But as more and more bodies add up, Cuthbert has his work cut out for him and the team.
This was a complex and tense case that had me making theories throughout - only to find that some development would change my thinking.
As we meet new characters, I was just waiting for them to give me a sign to not trust them.
This was another dark and gritty read that had me hooked from the start.
I can't wait to read the next ....
February 10, 2024
I was excited to find out more about Dr Jack Cuthbert in the second instalment of this series. Once again he is faced with a bewildering case that requires all his professional skill and intelligence to solve. The glittering 1920s, upper class drug scene was beautifully drawn and contrasted sharply with the seedy environment of the murders. A real page-turner once again.
July 6, 2025
In this second outing for the dour Scottish pathologist, there's a serial killer targeting prostitutes in London. Corruption is rife in the police and Jack is still wrestling with his secret identity. This series should be better known as they're an amazing read. Jack is a wonderful character and each book is intricately plotted. I am looking forward to reading the next instalment.
July 13, 2025
I loved this book as I did the first in the series. I found out things about society in the 1920s and 30s and the life of prostitutes what sad lives these women had. I like the relationships: Mowbray, Cuthbert, Simon and Baker. I almost feel like I know them.
I like the way in which the author introduces different aspects of the story allowing the reader to perhaps identify the culprit.
I like the way in which the author introduces different aspects of the story allowing the reader to perhaps identify the culprit.
October 4, 2025
Excellent second book. Quite different from first one. Not so gruesome and actually quite sad overall. Like the historical accuracy, had me back and forward to various literature as I read through. Had me captured from the start. Would definitely recommend. Allan is a great writer and story teller,get you really hooked.
January 28, 2024
Book 2 in the Cuthbert series and another great read! Really enjoyed the exploration of the character of Dr Jack Cuthbert, and the gripping twists and turns of the investigation of a Soho prostitutes murder in the '20's. Would definitely recommend!
November 23, 2024
This is the 2nd book in the Jack cuthbert series definitely a book a could not put down yet again Al the characters In it have a way of getting into and under your skin loved it would definitely recommend to family and friends.
July 17, 2025
It’s always a rare gift when you find a new author, whose books are unputdownable! This is the second book in the Dr Jack Cuthbert series and I’m led to believe that the third book tops the first two with respect to drama, intrigue and originality. Time will tell!!
January 15, 2024
Loved Allan Gaw’s first in the Cuthbert series and the second instalment did not disappoint. Amazing story and loved learning more about the character of Jack - can’t wait for more!
July 24, 2025
3.5. Decent story, original, but just a little flat for me
August 31, 2025
excellent follow up to the 1st in this series
September 24, 2025
Respectful forensic doctor, sad lives of women forced into prostitution. Audiobook - loved it
October 3, 2025
Best book I’ve read this year and immediately made me decide to read the rest of the series.
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