Stolen Brilliance: A Lady Black Mystery: Book 1

A Lady in Black Mystery

by Michael G. Colburn

In the shadowed streets of Victorian London, where poverty, power, and secrecy shape every life, a young woman’s past refuses to stay buried.

Lady Edith Black, known to those closest to her simply as Edie, has risen from the East End slums into a world of privilege, education, and respectability. But beneath her refined manners lies a history forged in hunger, crime, and survival. When a daring theft and a trail of quiet betrayals draw her back toward the criminal networks that once shaped her life, Edie is forced to confront the fragile boundary between justice and loyalty.

As whispers of stolen diamonds, hidden financiers, and dangerous alliances begin to surface, Edie becomes entangled in an investigation that stretches from London’s illicit stall markets to the distant promise of a new life in Australia. The deeper she looks, the more she uncovers a web of corruption and manipulation that reaches into both the criminal underworld and the respectable halls of power.

Caught between the people who once saved her and the values she has fought to build, Edie must decide what kind of woman she will be and what she is willing to sacrifice to protect those she loves.

Rich with historical detail and moral complexity, Stolen Brilliance is a story of identity, courage, and the cost of freedom, a mystery that asks not only who committed the crime, but what justice truly means in a world built on inequality.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Mystery, Historical Mystery

346 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2024

About the author

Michael G. Colburn has spent more than 45 years founding and running businesses based on creativity and design. In 2005 He and his wife Mary Esther Treat launched Ideas Well Done, a firm that focuses exclusively on inventing new products and bringing them to the marketplace. Since then Mike has created over 25 inventions that have generated millions of dollars in revenue and has patents issued in multiple countries. Mike and Mary Esther live in Vermont and enjoy being close to family, cross-country skiing in winter, and taking long distance walking vacations in warmer weather.

Reviews

[Carol J. · Rating 3 out of 5]

As this is the first book in a series featuring Lady Edith Black, we needed to get to know her and her back-story, which took up at least the first quarter of the book. We also need to find her engaging, which I did, but I would have liked more character development in her and the other main characters. From Part 2 onward it seemed as though this was more of a Jack Cramer mystery than a Lady Edith mystery. Several of the characters had more than one name, making it a bit hard to keep track of them throughout the story.

There were at least 3 major plot strains in this book: the Forty Elephants gang of women thieves mostly in London, the Ship Theft story, which involved visiting ports in a lot of countries, and the Diamond Heist story, which inspired the name of the book. It takes a skillful and experienced writer to do a good job of blending so many different story lines and I think it was a bit ambitious to try to combine all three into one “first novel”

I thought the writing improved as the book progressed. Early on there were many short simple sentences, with not much paragraph structure or transitions between paragraphs, so that the reader had to supply the cohesion. We didn’t hear much about what the characters were thinking or feeling. Also it was disappointing that there wasn’t much description of the places visited by the ship. It went to some scenic and exotic places, but we didn’t learn much about how the characters experienced them.

Later in the book the dialogue seemed more natural and the events described more fully. There were, however, quite a lot of current American expressions and usage throughout the writing, (such as “she is doing Okay”, “that’s way more money than….” and calling a Mother “Mom” instead of “Mama or Mum) I found that jarring in a book set in late Victorian England. It would have been good to get a Brit to read the book to catch those.

So I can’t give this book book 4 or 5 stars, but based on the improvement as this book progressed I think successive books in the series might have the potential for more stars.

I received this book as a free prepublication copy and am making this review voluntarily.

[Dylan Kinloch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Brilliance is an enthralling blend of historical fiction, crime, and romance set in the gritty underworld of Victorian London and beyond. The story follows Lady Edith "Edie" Black, a complex protagonist with a secret past as a master criminal. Raised in the slums and eventually drawn into a life of crime, Edie becomes an apprentice to the cunning Mrs. Hill, the leader of a gang of lady thieves. What begins as a tale of survival in the underbelly of London soon expands into a thrilling global adventure, with Edie navigating far-reaching heists in France, South Africa, Brazil, and Australia.

The novel's strength lies in its world-building, capturing the atmosphere of Victorian society and its darker corners. The richly detailed settings, particularly the steamship Ferret heist and the Cape Town diamond plot, transport the reader into Edie’s dangerous life of crime. These immersive locations give the story an adventurous scope that keeps the reader engaged, offering a globetrotting journey that enhances the plot's twists and turns.

[Antony Wairiuko · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Rude Awakening

Stolen Brilliance is a book by Michael G. Colburn. It’s the first book in The Lady Black Mysteries. The 368-page, September 2024 book’s four parts contain 42 chapters whose subtitles pique the reader’s curiosity without dropping spoilers.

Stolen Brilliance has an easy-to-follow, gripping narrative: from the Part One: Edie Black and Benji Diamond’s chapters 1 to 12 that lay the literary groundwork for the protagonists through the Part Two: The Diamond Heist’s chapters 13 to 18 that offer an ideal plot conflict and suspenseful rising action and the Part Three: Melbourne, Australia’s dramatic climax in chapters 19 to 24 to the falling action on Part Four: The Investigation’s chapter 25 to 42.

I particularly liked Edie’s growth from an abused weakling to the shots-calling, confident Lady Edith Black (among other aliases)–once an innocent, righteous girl and an unsuspecting beneficiary of an illegal establishment–after a rude awakening. Her association with Benji and their active participations in actions she (really looks out for him) once hated brings out the “best” in her. 

A product of circumstances, Edie’s character and her regional and intercontinental experiences cast light on a norm in Victorian England and beyond. Interestingly, there are many modern-day Edie and the plot is just as realistic as it was decades ago.

Perhaps the title “Stolen Brilliance” is not just about a diamond heist. In hindsight, it is a metaphorical representation of a child robbed of her innocence.

[Donna Emperador · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thrilling mystery filled with deception

Historical fiction is my favorite genre. But I have a special love of this period in British history, as my great great grandfather was a British sea captain at the time. Add mystery with numerous levels of treachery, and you've got me hooked.

This novel will take you on a journey from England to South America, Africa, and Australia. Throughout, you will meet well developed characters who are experts in the art of deception. This novel contains many twists and turns as well as suspense.

I recommend this book for those who like a good mystery and for those who like this historic time period.

Upon finishing the story, I noticed that this is book one in a series. I can't wait to get my hands on the next one!

[Brenda Freeman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stolen Brilliance is a historical fiction book about how Lady Black went from living in the slums to becoming Lady Black with money and respect. How she was saved by a group of folks running a theft ring, to living with the respectable Lady Hill, to running her own ring of thieves.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚Stolen Brilliance
✍🏻Michael G.. Colburn
Blurb:
Lady Edith Black harbors a secret past as a master criminal in this tale of love, crime, and adventure, with a jaw-dropping twist that will leave you stunned.

Rescued from the slums of Victorian London, Edie finds herself ensnared in a web of crime orchestrated by Mrs. Hill, the mastermind behind an infamous gang of lady thieves. While perfecting her skills at deception, Edie falls deeply in love with Benji, a criminal who saved her from a troubled past and is working to build a better future.

Led by Mrs. Hill, Edie embarks on a daring heist of the steamship Ferret. Soon, she finds herself navigating crime and adventure in far-flung locations from France and South Africa to Brazil and Australia.

When a massive diamond heist occurs in Cape Town, Benji is implicated as the thief. He is pursued by Lloyd's of London investigators, corporate interests, rival gangs, and Mrs. Hill. As secrets unravel and alliances shift, Edie must save Benji's life and her own by seeking the true perpetrators.Inspired by actual events, Stolen Brilliance is a historical mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final page. Join Edie Black on a journey of deceit, danger, and love as she fights to carve out her place in a world where nothing is as it seems.

My Thoughts:
Stolen Brilliance is Lady Edith Black harbors a secret past as a master criminal in this tale of love, crime, and adventure, With a jaw-dropping twist that will leave you stunned.is a gripping crime fiction with historical background. The story follows Lady Edith "Edie" Black, a complex protagonist with a secret past as a master criminal. Raised in the slums and eventually drawn into a life of crime, Edie becomes an apprentice to the cunning Mrs. Hill, the leader of a gang of lady thieves. What begins as a tale of survival in the underbelly of London soon expands into a thrilling global adventure, with Edie navigating far-reaching heists in France, South Africa, Brazil, and Australia.
Lady Edith Black, a seemingly well bred and wealthy woman, arrives in the slums of South London and reminisces about how, as a battered and bruised child Benji, a curly haired young Canadian man rescued her from her father, who had already beaten her mother to death. Benji was, apparently missing. There followed quite a long, and at times convoluted story of a female criminal mastermind, who, it turned out, was used by a more devious criminal .Edie’s upbringing wasn’t criminal by nature. It was the lack of opportunity in her background that pushed her to seek a different life, one that involved theft. Benji enters her life at the perfect moment, offering an escape. Edie and Benji's thrilling escapades as they traverse continents in search of the next big score. The story really comes alive here, filled with suspense and unexpected twists. Though the plot occasionally slows due to introspective moments from the characters, The unexpected twists and turns will keep the pages flying as readers follow Edie on her many adventures. I would recommend this book that loves a good crime mystery.
Thanks NetGalley, I.P Publishing and Auther Michael G. Colburn for the complimentary copy of "Stolen Brilliance" I am leaving my review in appreciation
#NetGalley
#I.PPublishing
#StolenBrillance
#MichaelG.Colburn
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Akanksha S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can crime ever be justified? Is corruption always bad, or is it sometimes necessary? This is the basic plot of the book, as it highlights issues in law enforcement and raises important questions about justice. Stolen Brilliance is an exciting historical mystery that mixes crime, adventure, and tough choices. The main character, Lady Edith Black (Edie to her friends), is at the heart of it all, wrestling with big questions about survival, who she really is, and what justice even means.

The book follows Edie Black, who grew up in the slums of London. She is saved by Benji Diamond, a man who teaches her life skills. She later joins the Forty Elephants, a gang of female thieves, hoping to find Benji when he goes missing. Over time, she becomes a skilled criminal. The story takes Edie to different places, including England, Africa, and Australia, where she gets involved in a big diamond heist. But when Benji is accused of stealing the diamonds, Edie must decide what she truly believes in.

The development of the characters is real and life-like. For example, Edie is an interesting main character. She changes from a poor girl to a smart and stylish lady who can outthink her enemies. She loves Benji, but she also struggles with the idea that crime might not be the right path. Benji is like Robin Hood—he steals but helps others. Mrs. Hill, the leader of the Forty Elephants, is clever and dangerous. Other characters, like Detective Wells and Jack Cramer, show different sides of the law.

The thing I loved most? It’s messy in the best way. There’s no “good guys win, bad guys lose” here—it’s all about tough choices and living with them. The book is split into four parts, and each one cranks up the tension. There are these flashbacks to Edie’s past that hit you in the feels, and sometimes it switches to the detective’s view, which keeps you guessing. It’s smart storytelling that doesn’t spoon-feed you answers.

Honestly, I think anyone who likes a good story could enjoy this. Most of us try to paint the world in black and white, right or wrong, but the majority part of life exists in grey. Michael G. Colburn does this cool thing where he makes you wonder if doing something wrong—like stealing—might actually be okay if it’s for a good reason. Life is not black-and-white, and that’s what kept me hooked.

[Alejandro Soto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gilded tides: A queen's gambit among the misty docks

Michael G. Colburn’s Stolen Brilliance: A Lady Black Mystery offers an intricate historical mystery centred on Edie Black, an orphan whose life transforms from hardship to heist. Set against a richly detailed Victorian maritime setting, the novel follows Edie’s entry into a women-led crime syndicate, where she sharpens her skills as a thief under the formidable Mrs. Hill. Motivated by love for Benji, who rescued her from poverty, Edie assumes an alias for a final, high-stakes heist aboard a stolen ship. The novel skillfully balances personal tragedy and criminal intrigue, though its ambitious plotline, which spans multiple continents and perspectives, occasionally muddles the central romance.

The novel’s strongest aspects lie in its compelling portrayal of Edie’s moral conflicts and her development from a naïve orphan to a formidable criminal strategist. Colburn’s characterization of Edie highlights her sharp intellect and ambiguity, contrasting her youthful, simplistic reasoning with the hardened pragmatism she acquires through hardship and experience. However, while Edie’s and Benji’s relationship serves as the story’s emotional core, it often becomes overshadowed by the expansive subplots. Interludes detailing police investigations and rival gang conflicts, although contributing to the broader tapestry of crime and consequence, frequently dilute the novel’s romantic tension and slow its momentum.

A notable achievement of Stolen Brilliance is its evocative historical setting, which immerses readers in the complexities of Victorian life—from the smoky ambience of dockside taverns to the claustrophobic confines of a steamship cabin. Inspired by real events, such as the operations of the Forty Elephants gang, Colburn enriches the plot with authentic period details and dynamic shifts in setting. Despite its minor shortcomings, the novel succeeds as both a character-driven drama and an adventurous caper, positioning Edie Black as a compelling protagonist in a promising series.

[Muhammed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael G. Colburn’s Stolen Brilliance: A Lady Black Mystery masterfully blends historical intrigue, adventure, and crime, making it an exhilarating start to The Lady Black Mysteries series. Set in the richly detailed streets of Victorian London, the novel follows Lady Edith Black, a privileged young woman thrust into the perilous world of a high-stakes diamond heist. What begins as an attempt to help her friend Benji soon entangles her in a web of deception, power struggles, and moral dilemmas. Colburn’s meticulous worldbuilding, infused with real historical elements like the Kimberley diamond heist, heightens the authenticity of the narrative. His ability to evoke the era’s atmosphere—its mansions, fog-laden streets, and treacherous underworld—makes for an immersive reading experience.

Beyond its gripping plot, Stolen Brilliance excels in character development, particularly with Edith’s transformation. Once a sheltered aristocrat, she emerges as a cunning and formidable player in the world of crime, embodying the book’s central theme of lost innocence. Her dynamic with Benji adds emotional depth, as she grapples with loyalty, morality, and survival. Meanwhile, investigator Jack Cramer introduces another layer of suspense, his relentless pursuit of justice keeping readers on edge. The novel’s structure—divided into four distinct parts—ensures a seamless flow, with each section building momentum toward the climax in Melbourne, Australia, and the intense investigation that follows. The pacing is expertly balanced, alternating between high-tension heist sequences and introspective moments that shape the characters’ arcs.

At its core, Stolen Brilliance is more than just a crime thriller; it’s a story of transformation, sacrifice, and the fine line between right and wrong. The novel’s title itself serves as a compelling metaphor, not just for stolen diamonds but for Edith’s stolen innocence and newfound brilliance in navigating a world she never imagined. With a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and action-packed, Colburn delivers a novel that will captivate historical fiction and mystery enthusiasts alike.

[Maura Randall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am an ARC reader and this is my honest opinion.

The tales of Lady Edith Black as they unfold in the historical environment of the late 1800's, based in England and the various important places around the globe where she travelled is an enjoyable albeit rigorous read requiring effort and concentration to keep track of the complexities of the people and the story thread.

The intrigue that was interwoven with the thieves with backgrounds from poverty or wealth and the variety of their intricate relationships that developed as their adventures took us from the relatively mundane street level to the trading of stolen properties via the shipping from continent to continent as it played out in the circumstances of their time. The character development was crucial to our appreciation of how the trust and livelihoods of each would become entwined with time.

Critically important in this complicated saga is the concept of honor among thieves which is part and parcel of the similarities and differences in the respect and loyalties within the various communities of aligned thieves and allies throughout the story.

The descriptive characteristics and conditions of situations in each character's poverty or wealth helped to give clarity to the underlying motivations of each individual and how they aligned with and understood their colleagues. The modes of travel, from coaches in the city to horses and buckboards in the rural areas to the very descriptive ships for the sea travel gave an authentic image of scenes playing out in my mind. The intricacies of the sequence were complex and challenged the reader to recall details every step of the way.

The multiple historical settings and situations left me wishing that this book would become a movie as I'd love to see the city and country housing and neighborhoods and landscapes as well as the variety of ships and harbors that were important parts of the story. I'd also love to see the actors who might portray these robust characters as well as the variety of apparel worn by men and women in the variety of situations they experienced.

[Naomi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Brilliance is a historical fiction novel set in Victorian times. Edie, also known as Lady Edith Black, lives a life of crime after being rescued from the slums of Victorian London as a young girl. In her new life, Edie becomes ensnared in a mess of crime, mystery, love, and deceit.

Stolen Brilliance is a blend of adventure, crime, romance, mystery, and intrigue that draws you into the colourfully descriptive world of past times. With a tantalising plot and fascinating characters, it is easy to become lost within these pages. Numerous themes within the storyline are introduced that drive the plot and the characters. For instance, towards the beginning of the book, we are introduced to the theme of Robin Hood, taking from the rich and giving to the poor. I thought the themes, like this one, to be well done as they aid the characters' development and showcase their diverse motives.

The characters are well-written and developed throughout the story. At the centre of the book are Edie and Benji and their relationship. The readers see Edie grow from a young girl into a woman. Along the way, we see her ethical dilemmas, shrewdness, and intellect. But also her fear and uncertainties. These traits made for a well-balanced character that seemed realistic and appropriate for one of the protagonists. Likewise, other characters are similarly well established, with a diverse cast that makes for a well-rounded story, especially for a tale of crime and romance. The story is primarily viewed through Edie's and Benji's perspectives during the first half of the book. In the second half, we see a few more perspectives, which are similarly well-written.

Stolen Brilliance is an enjoyable book with an intriguing plot and exciting twists. It is well-written and well-researched in terms of the historical setting and places. I thought the author balanced the historical aspects with the plotline well, which made this book a great read.

[Katreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

STOLEN BRILLIANCE by Michael G. Colburn
The First Lady Black Mystery

Born is poverty in Victorian England Edie Black's existence was bleak. While being rescued from the streets saved her life it led to the world or organized crime. Traveling from England to South America, Africa, and Australia Edie is in charge of a high stakes con. But before the voyage ends, the con crumbles. With multiple players and deception everywhere Edie knows that Benji is the only person she can trust. When her boss is forced into hiding and Benji is implicated in a diamond heist Edie knows it's up to her to discover who really stole the diamonds to save, not only Benji, but herself!

I really enjoyed a visit to the underside, albeit somewhat fancy underside, of Victorian England in the first Lady Black Mystery. Lady gangs, daring cons, and unique characters, made all the more intriguing as the story is based on real events and many of the characters truly existed.

The characters are the backbone of the story and make a compelling story even more so. From street urchins like Trunk and many of the boys to Specs, Mrs. Hill, and the despicable Henderson to Jack and Johnny all are fascinating, each with a story to tell. Edie Black is the most compelling of the characters. With determination, fortitude, and a little luck she manages to reinvent herself and succeed in the harsh world of Victorian England. Traveling to the furthest reaches of the British Empire and points in between Edie manages to cultivate a dangerous career and make the most of it.

Adventure, excitement, and so many twists and turns your head may spin STOLEN BRILLIANCE is an exciting tale of loyalty, deception, and love.

[JoAnne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by reading the link below. It is also posted in full.

https://novelsalive.com/2025/12/01/5-...

Stolen Brilliance by Michael G. Colburn is the first book in the Lady Black Mystery series, and I’m looking forward to reading more.

A historical crime fiction set in the late 1800s, filled with clues, red herrings, and good and bad guys working to figure out where the stolen items are.

The story is filled with so many characters, and not all of them are who they seem. Good guys who are bad and bad guys who are good or want to be under the right circumstances.

Edie, a master thief, also goes by several names. There is depth to the characters and the story, as multiple storylines are woven together. There is a good flow to the story as we travel the world on the ship that departs from England and goes to many other countries before we are returned to London. There’s even a hint of romance.

There are vivid descriptions as the story is told in four parts, all with engaging chapter titles. There is unexpected support from a variety of astonishing and unpredictable persons. The settings came to life, making me feel like I was there. There are just desserts for many of the criminals or those with criminal intent, which I was rooting for to happen, so there would be realism to the tale. There are a few surprises throughout, and the ending was totally unexpected.

Stolen Brilliance held my interest throughout as layers and details were added and revealed, helping me figure out what went wrong and whodunnit.

[Jacqueline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am an ARC reader and this is my honest opinion. I've just finished this book and I'm really pleased that there are more - at least two. When I started the book I wasn't sure where it was going. Lady Edith Black, a seemingly well bred and wealthy woman, arrives in the slums of South London and reminisces about how, as a battered and bruised child Benji, a curly haired young Canadian man rescued her from her father, who had already beaten her mother to death. Benji was, apparently missing. There followed quite a long, and at times convoluted story of a female criminal mastermind, who, it turned out, was used by a more devious criminal. I became really invested in the story, especially in the fate of Edie and Benji. The story does seem long in places - and then something else curious happens. It all comes together after detailed investigations by Jack Cramer, the Lloyds investigator, his friend and sidekick, and police detective Wells. It's an ingenious plot, that I began to piece together as the characters did. Although the plot got a bit involved, I found the excellent writing kept me interested every step of the way. Even the acknowledgements at the end were interesting. It turned out that not all of the story is fiction. The author took real historical events and people and wove the story around them. Genius in my opinion. For anyone who has enjoyed the TV series Peaky Blinders, the criminal gang, The Velvet Vipers, in this book, will seem familiar. I can't wait to read the next instalment!

[Feliz · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this novel, Lady Edie falls deeply in love with a man whose passion lies in crime, a relationship initially influenced by the toxic dynamics with her stepdad. However, Edie couldn't care less about the nature of his "day job." Her love for him is so strong that crime becomes a non-issue. The relationship starts with intensity, but Benji soon realizes there are better ways to make an honest living. He opts out of crime, but only after they pull off one final, lucrative mission. Will they succeed, or will fate take a darker turn?
Edie’s upbringing wasn’t criminal by nature. It was the lack of opportunity in her background that pushed her to seek a different life, one that involved theft. Benji enters her life at the perfect moment, offering an escape. Edie feels entitled to this new path and is determined to excel in it. She even compares Benji to a modern Robin Hood, not breaking the law but “helping his band of thieves escape poverty, run a farm, and become educated.”
Together, their schemes evolve, moving from petty theft to audacious endeavors like hijacking ships. Their relentless pursuit of wealth draws them deeper into a world of darkness, and you’ll be shocked by just how far these two are willing to go. The author zeroes in on Edie and Benji's thrilling escapades as they traverse continents in search of the next big score. The story really comes alive here, filled with suspense and unexpected twists. Though the plot occasionally slows due to introspective moments from the characters, the novel still delivers as a gripping thriller.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Colburn makes his fiction debut with Stolen Brilliance: A Lady Black Mystery, a historical mystery set in Victorian England. Lady Edith "Edie" Black grew up in the slums of London, until one day she is saved by a young man named Benji, a thief with a Robin-Hood streak of stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. Edie admires Benji's grit and gets a rush when she joins him on a job. She is drawn into a life of crime when she becomes an apprentice to Mrs. Hill, who runs a syndicate of female thieves called The Forty Elephants. Edie develops and hones her skills as a thief and eventually becomes one of Mrs. Hill's best thieves. Taking on an alias, Edie becomes involved in high-stake heists that take her across the world from Brazil to Australia. Things take a turn when Benji is accused of a diamond heist in Cape Town and is one the run from investigators and rival gangs. It's up to Edie to uncover the true culprits in order to save herself and Benji.
Colburn's fiction debut is a wonderful blend of historical fiction and mystery with a dash of romance. His strengths reside in his vivid and detailed settings that transport readers to Victorian London and beyond. Although the story has a rocky start and the first quarter of the book slowly plods along, the pacing gradually picks up as does the action. The unexpected twists and turns will keep the pages flying as readers follow Edie on her many adventures.

[Jom · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is set to be the first in a series so quite a bit of time is set out to give us background on Lady Edith Black, Benji Diamond, their gang at the market, the farm and Mrs Hill.

The action of the diamond heist plot doesn't come onto the scene until about almost halfway through the book. I do wish that the unfolding of the heist was a little more detailed as it seemed that it did not take up too many pages and suddenly we've moved on from it. The rest of the book proceeds to delve into the intrigue of different moves made by the various characters who all have sometimes contradictory, sometimes overlapping interests.

I enjoyed the background painted for Edie and Benji Diamond. It would have been nice to see them grapple more with the grey area of criminal activity since they are both painted out to be generally morally upstanding characters. I also wish some other characters like Mrs Hill and even 'side characters' like Specs could have been fleshed out more as well - perhaps we will see this more in subsequent books in the series.

Overall, it was interesting to see how travel via ship, travel by train, the postal service was like back in Victorian times. I enjoyed those sections of the book thoroughly.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[S.K. O'Connor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was hooked on Stolen Brilliance right from the start. Michael G. Colburn does an excellent job establishing character backgrounds, making everyone in the cast feel distinct and interesting. I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between Edie and Benji; however, I found myself wishing for even more interaction between them. While their "cat and mouse" game was fun initially, it felt a bit drawn out toward the middle of the book.

The historical research is clearly top-notch. While I appreciated the facts, there were moments where the level of detail made the prose feel more like a history textbook than a mystery novel. I would have traded some of those descriptions for more focus on the central relationships—and perhaps a mention of Edie and Benji’s ages!

The ending felt a bit abrupt compared to the slow build of the rest of the story. Specifically, the police's willingness to accept Benji’s innocence without proof felt unrealistic. I would have preferred more grounded procedural work during the climax. That said, I enjoyed the conclusion with Captain Watkins and I'm excited to see where the duo goes next. This author is clearly just getting started, and I look forward to the next installment!

[Tracey Madeley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is essentially Edie and Benji’s story, but there are a lot of characters which make this story very complicated. We start with a Robin Hood theme and the distribution and sale of stolen goods for the benefit of the poor. For Edie, this raises an ethical question, does she want to be involved in organised crime? It becomes a route out of poverty and she is drawn deeper and deeper into Mrs Hill’s schemes when she accepts a supervisory role aboard ship. Henderson is the leader of the expedition although Mrs Hill appoints Watkins as Captain due to a package he is transporting for her. This is where things get complicated, as when the diamonds go missing, the police, Lloyds underwriters and a gang called the Velvet Vipers all want the diamonds for themselves. Although written in the third person, the constant shifts in perspective to accommodate so many characters make the narrative a little disjointed in places. It also entails the reader being told elements of the story rather than being immersed in the action. The ending resolves the mystery, even if it feels a little forced, with a lack of evidence building to the conclusion.

[Caroline Musyoka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edie aka Lady Black’s desire was to be wealthy and a proper lady. However these dreams later became juvenile and empty. This is because she never envisioned that she would be caught in between a diamond heist. This made her realize that wealth was not really what she wanted. Growing up in the East London slums, Edie was unfortunate to experience the death of her mother caused by her stepfather. She was informed that her mother had died on the way to the hospital. This left her distraught and thought that it was her stepfather who should have died and not her mother. Stolen Brilliance: A Lady Black Mystery by Michael Colburn is a book that I enjoyed reading. It felt like I was watching a movie, always on the edge on what was going to happen next. Despite the numerous characters in the book, I loved how they connected to one another. However, at some point, I had to go back and refresh my memory about certain characters. But it was worthwhile because this read was a page-turner. It was also creative for Colburn to use real and fictitious names. Historical fiction lovers will definitely enjoy this book!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Stolen Brilliance by Michael G. Colburn, Lady Edith Black, a reformed master criminal, navigates a thrilling world of crime and romance. Rescued from the harsh slums of Victorian London, Edie is drawn into the criminal underworld led by the formidable Mrs. Hill. Amidst perfecting her craft and falling for Benji, a fellow criminal who once saved her, Edie becomes deeply involved in high-stakes heists across the globe, from France to Australia.The narrative takes a gripping turn when Benji is accused of a major diamond heist in Cape Town, leading to a chase involving investigators, rival gangs, and Mrs. Hill. Edie, now a skilled thief with a complex past, must unravel the true culprits to save Benji and herself.Colburn’s novel blends historical events with a captivating story of deception, love, and danger. Despite its intricate plot and extensive cast, the story’s rich historical detail and the central romance keep readers engaged. The book’s ambitious scope might occasionally slow its pace, but it remains a compelling historical mystery with a resilient heroine at its heart.

[Raisa Mbalule · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, Crime and Secrets

Stolen Brilliance by Michael G. Colburn is a gripping historical mystery filled with crime, romance, and unexpected twists. The story follows Edie Black, a clever and determined woman with a secret criminal past, as she navigates a world of danger and deception. From the gritty streets of Victorian London to high-stakes heists across the globe, the book keeps you guessing until the very end.

I really enjoyed how Edie’s character grew throughout the story. She transforms from a vulnerable orphan into a confident and strategic woman who takes charge of her fate. Her relationships, especially with Benji and Mrs. Hill, add depth and emotion to the fast-paced adventure.

Colburn does a great job bringing the setting to life with rich descriptions and historical details. The plot moves at a steady pace, with just enough action, mystery, and romance to keep you engaged. Stolen Brilliance is perfect for readers who enjoy smart female leads, thrilling adventures, and well-developed characters.

[Ariana Ochoa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Brilliance is an exciting historical mystery novel full of heists, piracy, and adventure.

The story is centered around Lady Edith Black who was saved from a life of poverty by a dashing young man, Benjamin Diamond. After several years in his care, Edie falls in love with Benji but is lured into a life of crime in order to clear his name. She teams up with a wealthy and unsuspecting syndicate boss, Mrs. Hill, under several heists, but when Benji is implicated in the biggest diamond heist, Edie must play the amateur sleuth to clear his name.

This book was exciting and full of adventure overseas. There is a bit a spice, but the most intriguing part of the book was the mystery surrounding the diamond heist. If you enjoy pirates, books including master criminals, and a teeny bit of romance, you will enjoy this book. Special thanks to the publisher and BookSirens for the ARC. This review is voluntary. All thoughts are my own.

[Tima · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Brilliance by Michael G. Colburn is an exciting historical adventure set in Victorian London. The story follows Lady Edith Black, a privileged woman drawn into a dangerous diamond heist. I was immediately pulled in by Colburn's vivid descriptions, bringing the streets and mansions of London to life. The characters are compelling, particularly the mysterious thief Benji and the determined investigator Jack Cramer. Each has their own secrets, adding depth to the plot.

One of the best parts of the novel is how it blends real historical events, like the Kimberley diamond heist, with fictional twists. This mix kept the story unpredictable and engaging. The pacing is spot-on, with tense action scenes balanced by moments of character growth. As the action moves from London to ships sailing between South Africa and Australia, the stakes only get higher.

Overall, Stolen Brilliance is a thrilling, well-researched read that historical fiction and crime lovers will enjoy.

[Octavia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Brilliance: A Lady Black Mystery by Michael G. Colburn is one of those novels that any reader that loves mystery should check out. The plot of the story is intriguing, and Edie as a main character is phenomenal. I love how relatable of a character she is and the growth of her character as the story continues. She's not a perfect character that has it all together, and I like that. Not to mention, the other characters in this story add more to the plot, which is very refreshing to read as a reader. The pacing of the story is just right. It's not too slow, but it's also not too fast. It's easy to keep up with the story without feeling lost. I can't wait to read more novels from Michael G. Colburn, especially if they are anything like this book. I definitely recommend this novel to mystery and thriller lovers and to those who just love a historical mystery. I rate this novel a 5 out of 5 stars.

[Neicy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Brilliance

Stolen Brilliance features a large cast of characters, but we first meet Edie, a young woman trapped in an abusive family dynamic. Her stepfather, a cruel drunk, ultimately leaves her orphaned. Enter Benji—a farmer with a Robin Hood-like streak, doing what he can to help struggling children. Edie is drawn to the grit and danger of his work, and after joining him on a job, she gets a rush from life on the edge. But it’s not until she meets Mrs. Hill that her world truly changes. She becomes part of a gang of female thieves, using her intelligence and drive to navigate a high-stakes mystery involving missing diamonds.

The story starts off slow, and while it doesn’t move at a breakneck pace, the steady build-up makes for a compelling read. The action, suspense, and mystery—with just a touch of romance—keep things engaging. I’d recommend it to readers who enjoy stories with layered characters and a mix of danger and intrigue.

[Purnima Khanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Stolen Brilliance" by Michael G. Colburn is a gripping crime fiction with historical background.
It is Book 1 of the series but a complete read in itself. The plot is set in Victorian London and revolves around theft committed to help the poor lot of the society. It revolves around
the female protagonist Edith Black, who knows all the rules of running a criminal gang. She is smart, brave and brainy, Her character, grit, moral dilemma adds extra drama to the story line. The author's Vivid description of Victorian London takes the reader to that era.
The narrative is impactful and the characters are well crafted smart and layered.
The plot is complex yet engaging. The author has successfully weaved historical accounts with the story line adding to its authenticity.
Mystery, thrill, suspense and drama keeps the reader hooked on turning the pages till climax. A retreat for crime mystery fans.

[William Bentrim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stolen Brilliance by Michael G. Colburn

Lady Edith Black wasn’t always a lady. Growing up in an East London slum in 1890, she was far more experienced than her age would suggest. Edie learned very early that survival was paramount, all else could follow. Benji, a very early friend, helped Edie become Lady Edith Black, a personage whose goal was to help others.

Getting to that point in her life involved many harrowing escapes as well as a wealth of nefarious characters. Edie discovered a well-tied cravat could be just as criminal as a cap full of razor blades. The story ranges from London to Australia with many interim stops for both legitimate and stolen cargo.

A tenacious American insurance investigator, an assortment of good fellows, both legitimate and criminal flesh out the book. Colorful characters such as Trunk, abound.

I enjoyed the book and have already started the sequel, Asylum Murders.

I recommend it.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

In mid-Victorian age London, nine year old Edie Black's father beats her mother to death and starts on Edie. She fights to defend herself, then is rescued by a savior who later plays a big role in her new life. She finds that she has fallen into a well organized criminal operation, overcomes a moral dilemma, and eventually rises high in the organization. Eventually she steals a ship, travels to Gibraltar, Bermuda, Melbourne, and Capetown before returning to London Along the way she falls in love with her rescuer. They are both falsely accused of a major diamond theft, an incident that reverberates through the latter part of the book, ending in a surprise ending. In enjoyed this book even though I found it confusing in places and wondered why some characters were introduced but then ignored.

[Agnes Odek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Black is a criminal mastermind, though she doesn’t see herself as such. Rescued at a young age from an abusive father and a life of poverty by Benji Diamond, her life changes. For better or worse, it depends on the reader, but what is certain is that poverty no longer clings to her. A bigger heist is set in place, led by Mrs. Hill. The Ferret, the ship that they steal, sets things in motion, unravelling more than Edith signed up for.Along the way, diamonds are lost as well as trust. As always, the days of a thief are numbered, and it isn’t any different here. Stolen Brilliance: A Lady Black Mystery by Michael G. Colburn is a well-written book. Taking place during the 1800s, the world Colburn creates is vivid and intriguing. The book gets better with each chapter. Inspired by real events, the author fabricates a brilliant plot that is intriguing as well as engaging.