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Field & Greystone #1
The Ravenkeeper's Daughter
In the eerie stillness of a moonlit night, a ravenkeeper is brutally murdered outside the Tower of London. The only potential witness, his daughter, missing...
Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field has few clues to follow but is determined to prove his quick rise through the ranks of the Metropolitan Police wasn’t simply because of his last name. Yet when the ravenkeeper’s daughter is found, the case becomes even more complicated.
Discovering the frightened, disheveled girl on her doorstep is a shocking start to widow Amelia Greystone’s day. So is the inspector assigned to the case—the same one who has yet to solve her husband’s murder.
Soon the investigation takes a dangerous turn that rouses fear of the legend surrounding the Tower’s ravens and threatens the Queen herself.
Can the unlikely pair protect the newly orphaned girl and halt the killer before he strikes again?
Fans of Irina Shapiro, Andrea Penrose, and Miss Scarlet and the Duke will enjoy this mystery series set on the dark streets of Victorian London.
Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field has few clues to follow but is determined to prove his quick rise through the ranks of the Metropolitan Police wasn’t simply because of his last name. Yet when the ravenkeeper’s daughter is found, the case becomes even more complicated.
Discovering the frightened, disheveled girl on her doorstep is a shocking start to widow Amelia Greystone’s day. So is the inspector assigned to the case—the same one who has yet to solve her husband’s murder.
Soon the investigation takes a dangerous turn that rouses fear of the legend surrounding the Tower’s ravens and threatens the Queen herself.
Can the unlikely pair protect the newly orphaned girl and halt the killer before he strikes again?
Fans of Irina Shapiro, Andrea Penrose, and Miss Scarlet and the Duke will enjoy this mystery series set on the dark streets of Victorian London.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2024
1328 people are currently reading
4022 people want to read
About the author
Lana Williams
93 books375 followersLana Williams is the USA Today Bestselling and Amazon All-Star Author of over 55 historical fiction novels filled with mystery, romance, adventure, and sometimes a pinch of paranormal to stir things up.
She spends her days in Victorian, Regency, and Medieval times, depending on her mood and current deadline.
Lana calls the Rocky Mountains of Colorado home where she lives with her husband and a spoiled rescue dog named Sadie. Connect with her at https://lanawilliams.net/, find her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lanawilliamsbooks, or on IG @authorlanawilliams.
She spends her days in Victorian, Regency, and Medieval times, depending on her mood and current deadline.
Lana calls the Rocky Mountains of Colorado home where she lives with her husband and a spoiled rescue dog named Sadie. Connect with her at https://lanawilliams.net/, find her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lanawilliamsbooks, or on IG @authorlanawilliams.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
September 15, 2024
In the eerie stillness of a moonlit night, a ravenkeeper is brutally murdered outside the Tower of London. The only potential witness, his deaf & mute daughter Maeve who is missing. Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field has few clues to follow but is determined to prove his quick rise through the ranks of the Metropolitan Police wasn’t simply because of his last name. Yet when the ravenkeeper’s daughter is found, the case becomes even more complicated. Discovering the frightened, dishevelled girl on her doorstep is a shocking start to widow Amelia Greystone’s day. So is the inspector assigned to the case, the same one who has yet to solve her husband’s murder.
A favourite author of mine has ventured into the historical mystery genre & what a well researched captivating book it was. The characters had depth & were well portrayed, some I loved, some I liked & some I disliked. I loved Henry & Amelia who worked well together & he wasn’t afraid to ask & respect her opinion. My heart bled for Maeve who had enough challenges without witnessing her father’s murder. There were plenty of suspects & I loved how Henry & his team sought & gradually found clues that led them to the villains. I also loved that it focused on the Tower of London & the people who worked there, which was different. I thoroughly enjoyed the book & was often on the edge of my seat, I look forward to more in the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
A favourite author of mine has ventured into the historical mystery genre & what a well researched captivating book it was. The characters had depth & were well portrayed, some I loved, some I liked & some I disliked. I loved Henry & Amelia who worked well together & he wasn’t afraid to ask & respect her opinion. My heart bled for Maeve who had enough challenges without witnessing her father’s murder. There were plenty of suspects & I loved how Henry & his team sought & gradually found clues that led them to the villains. I also loved that it focused on the Tower of London & the people who worked there, which was different. I thoroughly enjoyed the book & was often on the edge of my seat, I look forward to more in the series
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
September 14, 2024
Solid start to a new series--and a new direction for the author!
The Ravenkeeper's Daughter is a Victorian murder mystery that introduces us to Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field and widow/journalist/amateur scientist Amelia Greystone. There's no romance in this book--yet!--but it's clear that the two of them are developing some kind of feelings as the book (and their relationship) progresses.
There's a nice blend of mystery and suspense here, with a bit of history and British lore (I loved all the lore about the Tower ravens, and found out that "Beefeaters" don't appreciate the nickname--who knew?) sprinkled in. There's a nice amount of danger here for our protagonists and the little girl they are taking care of--fingers crossed we get to see Maeve again as the series continues!--and I really enjoyed watching Henry and Amelia work together to try to solve the mystery of who committed the murders and why.
This is the second book I've read recently that was a genre shift to Victorian mystery by an author who usually writes Regency romance, and I'm not at all mad about it--I really enjoyed both books and eagerly look forward to more!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
The Ravenkeeper's Daughter is a Victorian murder mystery that introduces us to Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field and widow/journalist/amateur scientist Amelia Greystone. There's no romance in this book--yet!--but it's clear that the two of them are developing some kind of feelings as the book (and their relationship) progresses.
There's a nice blend of mystery and suspense here, with a bit of history and British lore (I loved all the lore about the Tower ravens, and found out that "Beefeaters" don't appreciate the nickname--who knew?) sprinkled in. There's a nice amount of danger here for our protagonists and the little girl they are taking care of--fingers crossed we get to see Maeve again as the series continues!--and I really enjoyed watching Henry and Amelia work together to try to solve the mystery of who committed the murders and why.
This is the second book I've read recently that was a genre shift to Victorian mystery by an author who usually writes Regency romance, and I'm not at all mad about it--I really enjoyed both books and eagerly look forward to more!
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
September 21, 2024
The first book of this genre I’ve read and I absolutely loved it! I was hooked by the end of chapter one and struggles putting it down. Watching the relationship forming between Henry and Amelia was great! Overall I was kept on my toes and can’t wait to see where we go next!!
April 8, 2025
Setting is okay (Victorian set pieces), but offers nothing more informative than some Tower of London tourist guide information (dumped in cringeworthy dialogues; they sound as if characters were reciting wikipedia articles at each other).
Characters are cardboard cutouts with just one colour each (one personal problem, repeated over and over again). The one positive thing is that the female detective is not (yet?) following the "headstrong, independent, intelligent but sometimes stupidly heedless" stereotype.
Mystery does not look bad at first, but, after dragging along for 3/4 of the book, clues turn up that defy any logic. The ending is rushed and leaves open questions.
Language is bland and repetitive.
If you look for a series set in the Victorian era, there are much better ones out there.
December 6, 2024
Unrealistic sudden knowledge
I like the characters. Especially Maeve. She is totally believable as a character. That pubs had been visited but only one easily found at the end, when the extra piece of evidence appeared, seemed a bit easy. And why the item in Pritchard’s pocket? And why the second murder? Interesting theme for the first murder but the solution too suddenly easy.
I like the characters. Especially Maeve. She is totally believable as a character. That pubs had been visited but only one easily found at the end, when the extra piece of evidence appeared, seemed a bit easy. And why the item in Pritchard’s pocket? And why the second murder? Interesting theme for the first murder but the solution too suddenly easy.
December 9, 2024
Been on a huge Victorian mystery kick recently and this was just as good as the others.
I found the concept to be unique, the historical aspect very intriguing and the characters very enjoyable.
Looking forward to reading the next!
I found the concept to be unique, the historical aspect very intriguing and the characters very enjoyable.
Looking forward to reading the next!
December 9, 2024
The story of the tower and the ravens was quite entertaining. There was much about it that I had never read before. The story is more than a murder mystery. It's about loss, grief, and uncertainty. It's about determination and perseverance. It's a good read.
September 22, 2024
The Ravenkeeper's Daughter marks Lana Williams' first foray into writing historical mysteries, and what an enthralling read it is!
Extremely well-researched and well-written, it tells the story of a deaf, mute seven year-old girl, Maeve Pritchard, who witnesses the brutal murder of her father, the ravenkeeper at the Tower of London, one dark, fog-filled, eerie night just outside the gates of the Tower. Frightened and traumatized, the little girl seeks shelter with the widowed Amelia Greystone, a journalist and amateur chemist, whom Maeve met once while her father was being interviewed for a news piece. Amelia has her own sorrows to bear, including the violent death of her husband, Matthew, two years prior to the start of this story. To make matters even more complex, Henry Field, the detective inspector assigned to the case of Aberforth Pritchard, the murdered ravenkeeper, is none other than the police officer who was first assigned to investigate the mysterious death of Amelia's husband, a case which remains unsolved and for which Field has been criticized by his superiors.
Coming from a long line of well-respected, distinguished policemen in his family (his father and his grandfather), Henry feels the need to prove himself and carries the failure of not solving the murder of Amelia's husband heavily on his shoulders. Given a second chance to show himself worthy of his promotion to the rank of inspector, Henry seeks out Amelia's help time and again, as the two work together to communicate with Maeve, as to what she saw that terrifying night and who killed her father. But time is of the essence in unraveling what Maeve knows, as someone is working to silence Maeve forever. Even Amelia is caught in the crosshairs as Maeve's caretaker, and Field must get his investigation right this time to protect both the little girl and the woman whom he previously failed.
I enjoyed the unfolding of this tale, and the characters are well-drawn, likable and nuanced. I especially was drawn to Amelia's strength in the face of adversity and her gentle way with Maeve. Clearly an intelligent, thoughtful heroine, I particularly liked that Henry appreciated all she brought to the table, with her knowledge of chemistry and her kindness. The two main characters made a great team, and I enjoyed watching their relationship slowly evolve over the course of the book. Additionally, I can't wait to see how their working and personal relationships progress in each new historical mystery that's added to the series.
All in all, a very solid debut in the new Victorian historical murder mystery series by Lana Williams, with so much potential for future stories starring the tenacious Inspector Field and the highly competent Mrs. Greystone solving nearly impossible cases!
4.25 stars
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
Extremely well-researched and well-written, it tells the story of a deaf, mute seven year-old girl, Maeve Pritchard, who witnesses the brutal murder of her father, the ravenkeeper at the Tower of London, one dark, fog-filled, eerie night just outside the gates of the Tower. Frightened and traumatized, the little girl seeks shelter with the widowed Amelia Greystone, a journalist and amateur chemist, whom Maeve met once while her father was being interviewed for a news piece. Amelia has her own sorrows to bear, including the violent death of her husband, Matthew, two years prior to the start of this story. To make matters even more complex, Henry Field, the detective inspector assigned to the case of Aberforth Pritchard, the murdered ravenkeeper, is none other than the police officer who was first assigned to investigate the mysterious death of Amelia's husband, a case which remains unsolved and for which Field has been criticized by his superiors.
Coming from a long line of well-respected, distinguished policemen in his family (his father and his grandfather), Henry feels the need to prove himself and carries the failure of not solving the murder of Amelia's husband heavily on his shoulders. Given a second chance to show himself worthy of his promotion to the rank of inspector, Henry seeks out Amelia's help time and again, as the two work together to communicate with Maeve, as to what she saw that terrifying night and who killed her father. But time is of the essence in unraveling what Maeve knows, as someone is working to silence Maeve forever. Even Amelia is caught in the crosshairs as Maeve's caretaker, and Field must get his investigation right this time to protect both the little girl and the woman whom he previously failed.
I enjoyed the unfolding of this tale, and the characters are well-drawn, likable and nuanced. I especially was drawn to Amelia's strength in the face of adversity and her gentle way with Maeve. Clearly an intelligent, thoughtful heroine, I particularly liked that Henry appreciated all she brought to the table, with her knowledge of chemistry and her kindness. The two main characters made a great team, and I enjoyed watching their relationship slowly evolve over the course of the book. Additionally, I can't wait to see how their working and personal relationships progress in each new historical mystery that's added to the series.
All in all, a very solid debut in the new Victorian historical murder mystery series by Lana Williams, with so much potential for future stories starring the tenacious Inspector Field and the highly competent Mrs. Greystone solving nearly impossible cases!
4.25 stars
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
May 9, 2025
This one is a little hard for me to rate. The story and mystery were promising and engaging enough, and the characters were mostly like every other similar victorian mystery series, but with a few potentially interesting twists. However, the execution was extremely clumsy. My initial thought was that this was a first time author writing a book that had not been professionally edited, so I was prepared to give it a lot of leeway and read the next one in the hopes it would improve. But as it looks like this is actually a prolific, long time author I'm no longer optimistic and will not continue.
Much telling rather than showing, and when we did get to "showing" the actions often didn't match the stated beliefs of the characters.
The mystery was interesting and creative at first, but there were so many plot holes that it strained credulity. There was no continuity in how well Maeve could communicate beyond what was convenient for the author. One of my biggest annoyances: in an era when a person could travel by train from Edinburgh to London in 12 hours, what kind of family of means would possibly take more than a week to come from nothern England to London for a child who had just lost their only parent and family member in London? We're supposed to believe it took them time to "make arrangements." If that were my niece I would move heaven and earth and skip sleep, meals and anything else to be there on the first possible train. There is never an actual reason given why they don't show up within 24 hours. At least give us a scarlet fever outbreak or something. I would've taken deus ex machina over nothing.
There was a weird attempt at one point to make the hero sound feminist because he trusts the heroine to test some evidence. When his supervisor asks for her qualifications he can't list any. “She has significant knowledge in chemistry and her own laboratory,” is all he can say and then he gets annoyed when his supervisor says that they should have a reputable chemist confirm the results so that the evidence will be solid. That is an entirely reasonable request and that he gets huffy and declares it a "waste of time" just makes him seem like an idiot rather than a feminist. Like, if she is a reputable chemist, great, get that info and provide it. But "I, person who has no knowledge of chemistry, thinks she is qualified because I have a crush on her" is not a solid reason.
Much telling rather than showing, and when we did get to "showing" the actions often didn't match the stated beliefs of the characters.
The mystery was interesting and creative at first, but there were so many plot holes that it strained credulity. There was no continuity in how well Maeve could communicate beyond what was convenient for the author. One of my biggest annoyances: in an era when a person could travel by train from Edinburgh to London in 12 hours, what kind of family of means would possibly take more than a week to come from nothern England to London for a child who had just lost their only parent and family member in London? We're supposed to believe it took them time to "make arrangements." If that were my niece I would move heaven and earth and skip sleep, meals and anything else to be there on the first possible train. There is never an actual reason given why they don't show up within 24 hours. At least give us a scarlet fever outbreak or something. I would've taken deus ex machina over nothing.
There was a weird attempt at one point to make the hero sound feminist because he trusts the heroine to test some evidence. When his supervisor asks for her qualifications he can't list any. “She has significant knowledge in chemistry and her own laboratory,” is all he can say and then he gets annoyed when his supervisor says that they should have a reputable chemist confirm the results so that the evidence will be solid. That is an entirely reasonable request and that he gets huffy and declares it a "waste of time" just makes him seem like an idiot rather than a feminist. Like, if she is a reputable chemist, great, get that info and provide it. But "I, person who has no knowledge of chemistry, thinks she is qualified because I have a crush on her" is not a solid reason.
September 18, 2024
After the murder of the raven keeper at the tower of London, Inspector Henry Field launches an investigation to find the party responsible. The only witness, the raven keepers 7 year old daughter.
This new Victorian era murder mystery series from one of my favorite authors is absolutely fantastic. A wide cast of characters had me changing my theory of "who done it" several times. I also loved the historical facts sprinkled in. Having been to the Tower of London myself, I was aware of the story associated with the ravens. I didn't know you shouldn't look them in the eye though. I also did not know about the 1883 tragedy at Victoria Hall. I did some research on that after finishing the book.
I look forward to more books in this series with Inspector Fields. Great job Lana Williams!
This new Victorian era murder mystery series from one of my favorite authors is absolutely fantastic. A wide cast of characters had me changing my theory of "who done it" several times. I also loved the historical facts sprinkled in. Having been to the Tower of London myself, I was aware of the story associated with the ravens. I didn't know you shouldn't look them in the eye though. I also did not know about the 1883 tragedy at Victoria Hall. I did some research on that after finishing the book.
I look forward to more books in this series with Inspector Fields. Great job Lana Williams!
September 17, 2024
The Ravenkeeper at the Tower of London overhears a conversation that leads to his death. The only witness is his seven year old daughter, Maeve. Unfortunately, she's deaf and mute. She runs to the person she trusts, widow Amelia Greystone. Scotland Yard Inspector, Henry Field, is on the case with few clues of the murderer. Frustrated at his investigaton, he must solve the murder to establish himself as worthy of his position. A fast paced mystery with an Inspector and a widow working together to solve a murder. Not a romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by the author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book gifted by the author.
March 19, 2025
a bit of a slow start - I thought the mystery was well developed and incredibly believable!
November 7, 2025
Pretty good story. I’ll continue with the series
January 11, 2026
A thrilling mystery with just the right amount of tension to keep you engaged without ever becoming too gruesome.
The bond between Amelia and Maeve is genuinely sweet, adding emotional depth to the story.
The hint of romance promises to continue into the next installment, and I’m already looking forward to book two. The plot is fully developed, easy to follow, and satisfying from start to finish.
The bond between Amelia and Maeve is genuinely sweet, adding emotional depth to the story.
The hint of romance promises to continue into the next installment, and I’m already looking forward to book two. The plot is fully developed, easy to follow, and satisfying from start to finish.
September 10, 2024
A historical murder mystery involving the Tower of London and a villainous plot. How can the police solve the case when the only witness is a deaf mute seven year old girl in the throes of grief? This was a carefully crafted story with well rounded characters and an absorbing plot and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 26, 2025
If you are a fan of historical mystery, you should definitely read this series! I read book 1 and 2 and they were both so good. I find the characters different from other characters in other series as young widow Amelia isn't an activist/suffragette: she's just a young woman who does some interviews for a journal and is an amateur chemist. I find this refreshing as I'm sure in the late 1880s, we had women who were just "quietly" working on taking the place they deserve. Detective Henry Field works at Scotland Yard like men his family did and he is just dedicated to being a good guy and proving he deserves the spot. They develop an unlikely friendship and Henry shows admiration for Amelia.
In this first installment of the series, they come together to solve the murder of a Ravenkeeper, as his little girl who is deaf shows up at Amelia's door because Amelia interviewed the little girl's father and the girl trusted Amelia. I find this part of the story very human and sweet, and it makes for beautiful moments when Henry and Amelia are connecting with this girl.
The mystery is definitely at the forefront and if you are looking for a romance, this is maybe not the book for you, but yes, the friendship between Henry and Amelia is plausible and we can see hints of possible romance.
In this first installment of the series, they come together to solve the murder of a Ravenkeeper, as his little girl who is deaf shows up at Amelia's door because Amelia interviewed the little girl's father and the girl trusted Amelia. I find this part of the story very human and sweet, and it makes for beautiful moments when Henry and Amelia are connecting with this girl.
The mystery is definitely at the forefront and if you are looking for a romance, this is maybe not the book for you, but yes, the friendship between Henry and Amelia is plausible and we can see hints of possible romance.
September 18, 2024
Such a fabulous new series! The start of this novel immediately grabbed my attention then broke my heart and I loved it! I loved all of the characters but especially Amelia Greystone because she is such a strong, smart, independent woman. I really felt for Henry trying to solve a crime with so little information but I was thrilled every time he and his fellow investigators discovered a new piece to the puzzle. I can't wait to see where their story leads in the rest of the series!
February 12, 2025
This was a very good story. I liked the main characters and the beginning of the mystery. My problem was that there really weren't any clues until there were. The ending was rushed and Maeve is not going to be an ongoing character.
April 7, 2025
A good first in this series about a widow and a police inspector who are thrown together to solve a murder. Mystery and action deep and fast paced with a witness unable to communicate complicating the investigation. Backstories and relationships building slowly as background to the story.
January 11, 2025
slow moving and repetitious
First 80 percent of the book rehashed the same things until I wanted to scream, "I understood that the first 50 times you said it!!!!"
First 80 percent of the book rehashed the same things until I wanted to scream, "I understood that the first 50 times you said it!!!!"
June 7, 2025
Okay, but what happened with the stolen jewelry? I know it was just a side case, but now I am invested. 😂
September 4, 2025
3.5 stars
September 5, 2025
3.75 stars
December 18, 2025
3.5 stars. Will definitely keep listening to the audiobooks! I really liked the reader, Lucy Rayner. This is the first entry in a new late-Victorian-era cozy murder mystery series, featuring a young widow whose hobby is chemistry (why not) and a police inspector from Scotland Yard (delightful!).
It is really, really hard not to compare this series with the Tabitha and Wolf Mysteries series that I listened to about 6 months ago, and the comparison does not do THAT series any favors. I think if I list all the reasons why, the information will also simultaneously cover the things I liked about THIS series, so let's get going!
1. Main female character, Amelia, is not a ridiculous Mary Sue. It's not that Tabitha (of the T&W series) is actively unlikable, but she IS bland as hell and also basically perfect in every way, and the reader is constantly reminded that she is beautiful and kind and filled with social justice etc etc. The two are very similar -- both are recent widows, and both pine for a lost daughter (Amelia's daughter died at the age of 3, and Tabitha had a miscarriage or something). This causes both of them to be very affected and over-involved in the lives of little girls they run into.
2. The little girls: in the T&W series, Tabitha fucking ADOPTS a random little girl off the street who is even MORE of a Mary Sue, if that is even possible. This girl, despite being like 3 or 4 years old, is a genius who learns everything super fast (including how to read and do math in a later book) and is also super cute and adored by LITERALLY everyone in the book. In contrast, Amelia is watching over a traumatized deaf-mute girl who witnessed her father's murder and is in shock, which is frustrating but much more realistic. The girl found her way to Amelia's door for plot reasons and Amelia is involved in the rest of the case because of her temporary guardianship of the child (who won't communicate with anyone else), whereas Tabitha is involved in cases because... I dunno, she's nosy and filled with the light of justice? Also, at the end of the book, Amelia responsibly turns the girl over to relatives, whereas Tabitha's adopted child has her own spinoff series where she mary-sues around Europe solving murders.
3. Social rank: Amelia seems to be... I guess the daughter of a successful alchemist/doctor, which would put her solidly in the middle class. Similarly, "police inspector" is presumably also a middle class type job. Amelia has some servants (like... 4? a butler, cook, maid, and housekeeper?) and these characters actually have some personality, whereas Tabitha is a countess (as the widow of an earl), and Wolf (the male half of that series) is also an earl. This makes lots of high society shenanigans possible in the plot, I guess, but in later books it definitely makes murder investigations in seedy parts of town feel unrealistic (well, at least for Tabitha). I prefer the professional class as they seem to have more mobility to talk to other social classes, and being a police inspector gives our male MC Henry Field all the excuses he could need to go anywhere and ask questions of anyone.
4. Speaking of male main characters! Wolf (of T&W) is a great guy, but like Tabitha, a bit TOO perfect. Not only is he ridiculously hot (so is she, to be fair), but he's ALSO technically a Bad Boy, since despite being the next of kin to an earl, he somehow grew up in a working class neighborhood and made a living as a thief-taker (basically, a private eye slash bounty hunter). Thus, he has loads of underworld contacts and a level of skill at fighting that most earls would not have. Sadly, despite this intriguing backstory, he too is kind of bland. Henry, on the other hand, is a cop, so you'd hope he could defend himself. Also, he tends to get his ass kicked when he is outnumbered, which is more or less what you'd EXPECT to happen, whereas Wolf is ridiculously good at fighting and has a giant sidekick (named Bear, lol) who is even better at it. Henry, on the other hand, has a sidekick who is basically his Dr Watson, a smart ex-Navy police sergeant who is a normal dude. Also, Wolf is named Wolf. (Okay, actually, in a CRAZY TWIST, his real name is ALSO Henry!! But his nickname is Wolf. Because he is just THAT COOL.)
5. Investigation techniques: one of Tabitha's irritating Mary Sue qualities is that she is always "inventing" cool modern investigative techniques, such as composite sketches of suspects or string theory pinboards and it's just like. Really? Whereas in F&G, police sketches are just a thing that exists and the main characters do not get credit for coming up with the concept.
6. Romance: okay this is a bit unfair since T&W is definitely supposed to be a romance series as well as a cozy murder series, but then most cozy series have a romance subplot. If you're looking for a few steamy scenes, the T&W series definitely has more content for you (whereas F&G is proceeding at a glacial pace in that regard: so far, nobody has accidentally touched a boob, nor been forced by circumstance to kiss someone in a dark alley to fool a criminal, etc.) However, since the characters here are far more human and likable in my opinion, I am enjoying their cute, quiet, slow-burn romance. I did laugh at the scene in book 2 where omg, Henry gets stabbed and Amelia has to take off his shirt to, you know, look at the wound. The book is like "she ignored his wide shoulders and muscular chest" OH SHE DID, DID SHE? (Of course, she did not, lol. It's worth noting that there's a similar scene in almost every book of this type, and it always makes me laugh. We ladies just love a good bleeding shirtless hot dude!)
7. The crimes: I never thought I'd have to say this, but evil child prostitution rings run by upper-class rapists are getting really old. It feels like every other book of this type has this as one of its early cases. Frankly, if you know much about the time period, it's hard to believe crimes against children (even sex crimes) would be seen anywhere near as seriously as they are nowadays. This always feels like a "modern perspective" when I see it in a book set in the 1800s and everyone is super outraged and horrified. In T&W, sex crimes in general feature often in the stories, whereas in F&G, I've read 2 books so far, and while the FMC is of course super progressive and protective of children, a child sex ring has not yet been a featured crime; instead the author has come up with other more creative ways to involve dead children in her stories! (Mystery authors love dead kids! So dramatic and tragic!)
In conclusion, so far this series seems like it's gonna be full of the standard tropes of its genre, but done better in a lot of the specific ways I find annoying in other series! Except -- even though this series seems like it's probably gonna be super-clean, I still hold out hope that maybe in the future, there will be some boob-touching after all! XD
It is really, really hard not to compare this series with the Tabitha and Wolf Mysteries series that I listened to about 6 months ago, and the comparison does not do THAT series any favors. I think if I list all the reasons why, the information will also simultaneously cover the things I liked about THIS series, so let's get going!
1. Main female character, Amelia, is not a ridiculous Mary Sue. It's not that Tabitha (of the T&W series) is actively unlikable, but she IS bland as hell and also basically perfect in every way, and the reader is constantly reminded that she is beautiful and kind and filled with social justice etc etc. The two are very similar -- both are recent widows, and both pine for a lost daughter (Amelia's daughter died at the age of 3, and Tabitha had a miscarriage or something). This causes both of them to be very affected and over-involved in the lives of little girls they run into.
2. The little girls: in the T&W series, Tabitha fucking ADOPTS a random little girl off the street who is even MORE of a Mary Sue, if that is even possible. This girl, despite being like 3 or 4 years old, is a genius who learns everything super fast (including how to read and do math in a later book) and is also super cute and adored by LITERALLY everyone in the book. In contrast, Amelia is watching over a traumatized deaf-mute girl who witnessed her father's murder and is in shock, which is frustrating but much more realistic. The girl found her way to Amelia's door for plot reasons and Amelia is involved in the rest of the case because of her temporary guardianship of the child (who won't communicate with anyone else), whereas Tabitha is involved in cases because... I dunno, she's nosy and filled with the light of justice? Also, at the end of the book, Amelia responsibly turns the girl over to relatives, whereas Tabitha's adopted child has her own spinoff series where she mary-sues around Europe solving murders.
3. Social rank: Amelia seems to be... I guess the daughter of a successful alchemist/doctor, which would put her solidly in the middle class. Similarly, "police inspector" is presumably also a middle class type job. Amelia has some servants (like... 4? a butler, cook, maid, and housekeeper?) and these characters actually have some personality, whereas Tabitha is a countess (as the widow of an earl), and Wolf (the male half of that series) is also an earl. This makes lots of high society shenanigans possible in the plot, I guess, but in later books it definitely makes murder investigations in seedy parts of town feel unrealistic (well, at least for Tabitha). I prefer the professional class as they seem to have more mobility to talk to other social classes, and being a police inspector gives our male MC Henry Field all the excuses he could need to go anywhere and ask questions of anyone.
4. Speaking of male main characters! Wolf (of T&W) is a great guy, but like Tabitha, a bit TOO perfect. Not only is he ridiculously hot (so is she, to be fair), but he's ALSO technically a Bad Boy, since despite being the next of kin to an earl, he somehow grew up in a working class neighborhood and made a living as a thief-taker (basically, a private eye slash bounty hunter). Thus, he has loads of underworld contacts and a level of skill at fighting that most earls would not have. Sadly, despite this intriguing backstory, he too is kind of bland. Henry, on the other hand, is a cop, so you'd hope he could defend himself. Also, he tends to get his ass kicked when he is outnumbered, which is more or less what you'd EXPECT to happen, whereas Wolf is ridiculously good at fighting and has a giant sidekick (named Bear, lol) who is even better at it. Henry, on the other hand, has a sidekick who is basically his Dr Watson, a smart ex-Navy police sergeant who is a normal dude. Also, Wolf is named Wolf. (Okay, actually, in a CRAZY TWIST, his real name is ALSO Henry!! But his nickname is Wolf. Because he is just THAT COOL.)
5. Investigation techniques: one of Tabitha's irritating Mary Sue qualities is that she is always "inventing" cool modern investigative techniques, such as composite sketches of suspects or string theory pinboards and it's just like. Really? Whereas in F&G, police sketches are just a thing that exists and the main characters do not get credit for coming up with the concept.
6. Romance: okay this is a bit unfair since T&W is definitely supposed to be a romance series as well as a cozy murder series, but then most cozy series have a romance subplot. If you're looking for a few steamy scenes, the T&W series definitely has more content for you (whereas F&G is proceeding at a glacial pace in that regard: so far, nobody has accidentally touched a boob, nor been forced by circumstance to kiss someone in a dark alley to fool a criminal, etc.) However, since the characters here are far more human and likable in my opinion, I am enjoying their cute, quiet, slow-burn romance. I did laugh at the scene in book 2 where omg, Henry gets stabbed and Amelia has to take off his shirt to, you know, look at the wound. The book is like "she ignored his wide shoulders and muscular chest" OH SHE DID, DID SHE? (Of course, she did not, lol. It's worth noting that there's a similar scene in almost every book of this type, and it always makes me laugh. We ladies just love a good bleeding shirtless hot dude!)
7. The crimes: I never thought I'd have to say this, but evil child prostitution rings run by upper-class rapists are getting really old. It feels like every other book of this type has this as one of its early cases. Frankly, if you know much about the time period, it's hard to believe crimes against children (even sex crimes) would be seen anywhere near as seriously as they are nowadays. This always feels like a "modern perspective" when I see it in a book set in the 1800s and everyone is super outraged and horrified. In T&W, sex crimes in general feature often in the stories, whereas in F&G, I've read 2 books so far, and while the FMC is of course super progressive and protective of children, a child sex ring has not yet been a featured crime; instead the author has come up with other more creative ways to involve dead children in her stories! (Mystery authors love dead kids! So dramatic and tragic!)
In conclusion, so far this series seems like it's gonna be full of the standard tropes of its genre, but done better in a lot of the specific ways I find annoying in other series! Except -- even though this series seems like it's probably gonna be super-clean, I still hold out hope that maybe in the future, there will be some boob-touching after all! XD
September 19, 2024
When widower Aberforth Pritchard, the Ravenkeeper of the Tower of London is murdered, Inspector Henry Field of Scotland Yard is put on the case. Henry is a 3rd generation Inspector and has a lot to prove, given that his father and grandfather were legends at Scotland Yard and were both promoted to Chief Inspector, leading many to believe that Henry was given his promotions and isn’t nearly as proficient as his predecessors. Henry strongly refuted these accusations, but a recent unsolved murder has him questioning himself and making him more determined than ever to solve the Ravenkeeper’s murder. His first order of business will be finding Aberforth’s missing seven-year-old daughter Maeve.
As luck would have it (or maybe not), Maeve is returned to the Tower by none other than Amelia Greystone, the widow of Matthew Greystone – the victim of Henry’s unsolved murder. Amelia was shocked when Maeve arrived at her home in the early morning, barefoot and wearing only her nightdress. Amelia barely knows the child, having met her when Amelia interviewed her father for the periodical she writes for and having invited her to her home to visit her laboratory. Amelia has a keen interest in chemistry, thanks to her father, but it has been nothing more than a hobby, and at her parents urging, she started writing for the magazine not long after the death of her husband. But his was not the only death she has had to endure; she also lost her three-year-old daughter to Scarlett Fever not long before Matthew was murdered, which put a strain on their already floundering relationship. Amelia agrees to keep Maeve until her relatives can be found, as the girl is deaf and mute and clearly feels comfortable with her. She is happy to see that Henry is on the case, despite her husband’s unsolved murder, she knows he is intelligent and dedicated. And when he asks for her help, she is happy to give it. But keeping Maeve and helping Henry may be more dangerous than any of them realize!
I really enjoyed this story, I don’t normally read historical mystery, but having read all of this author’s historical romance books, I knew I would not be disappointed. This was a well-written, nicely researched book with an intriguing mystery, wonderful characters and a satisfying ending that left me excited to read the next installment! The mystery was well-done, but I did feel like the story sometimes got lost in the details as the author gives the reader a lot of information that isn’t necessarily pertinent to the story. This is the author's first foray into the Historical Mystery genre, so it may just be a case of finding her stride and her future books will only be better for it!
4.5 stars, rounded up
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
As luck would have it (or maybe not), Maeve is returned to the Tower by none other than Amelia Greystone, the widow of Matthew Greystone – the victim of Henry’s unsolved murder. Amelia was shocked when Maeve arrived at her home in the early morning, barefoot and wearing only her nightdress. Amelia barely knows the child, having met her when Amelia interviewed her father for the periodical she writes for and having invited her to her home to visit her laboratory. Amelia has a keen interest in chemistry, thanks to her father, but it has been nothing more than a hobby, and at her parents urging, she started writing for the magazine not long after the death of her husband. But his was not the only death she has had to endure; she also lost her three-year-old daughter to Scarlett Fever not long before Matthew was murdered, which put a strain on their already floundering relationship. Amelia agrees to keep Maeve until her relatives can be found, as the girl is deaf and mute and clearly feels comfortable with her. She is happy to see that Henry is on the case, despite her husband’s unsolved murder, she knows he is intelligent and dedicated. And when he asks for her help, she is happy to give it. But keeping Maeve and helping Henry may be more dangerous than any of them realize!
I really enjoyed this story, I don’t normally read historical mystery, but having read all of this author’s historical romance books, I knew I would not be disappointed. This was a well-written, nicely researched book with an intriguing mystery, wonderful characters and a satisfying ending that left me excited to read the next installment! The mystery was well-done, but I did feel like the story sometimes got lost in the details as the author gives the reader a lot of information that isn’t necessarily pertinent to the story. This is the author's first foray into the Historical Mystery genre, so it may just be a case of finding her stride and her future books will only be better for it!
4.5 stars, rounded up
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
September 20, 2024
A marvelous murder mystery set during Victorian times with a Sherlock Holmes’ type of feel to the storyline. The ravenkeeper, Yeoman Warder Aberforth Prichard, unfortunately is murdered because he overhears a conversation while out trying to retrieve one of the Tower of London’s ravens. Even worse is the fact that his seven year old deaf, mute and motherless daughter, Maeve, witnessed his murder. As he begins to lose his struggle with life, he spots her and mouths for her to run, which she does, running to the only friendly and safe place she can, to the home she and her father visited days ago, to the home of a virtual stranger but of a woman, Mrs. Amelia Greystone, who had shared her love of chemistry with Maeve the day they visited. Mrs. Greystone has a tragic life herself, having lost her three year old daughter to scarlet fever and a year later her husband was murdered. Scotland Yard inspector Henry Field finds himself not only in charge of her husband’s unsolved murder case but now this case will come with many challenges for the third generation inspector. This page turner is full of mystery and danger lurking with tantalizing hints and clues dropped to entice the reader to try their hand at being Sherlock Holmes and solve the murder along with the inspectors. The characters of Amelia, Maeve, Henry and Amelia’s staff are a delight to watch interact together as they try to help young Maeve and she begins to open up to them. A beautiful story within a very tragic story. The underlying possibly budding romance between Amelia and Henry gave this romance reader something extra to smile about with hopes of more to come in the following book. I’m not normally a murder mystery reader but I enjoyed this one immensely. I received a free Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book but was given no monetary compensation. I read for the enjoyment and voluntarily review so that others may know what to expect and authors may be helped by critique and encouragement.
September 10, 2024
Barbara’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Series: The Field & Greystone Series
Publication Date: 9/17/24
Period: Victorian London. 1883
What a delightful surprise to find this outstanding historical romance author making her first foray into the world of historical mysteries. She did prodigious amounts of research, is true to the period in which the story is set, and created an atmospheric story that will pull you in from the first dark, eerie, fog-filled scene and hold you until the last word on the last page.
Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field has a long and illustrious history to live up to as both his father and grandfather were outstanding Chief Inspectors before him. Everyone is always watching him – hoping for a mistake – so they can feel better about their own mediocrity. The case to which he has just been assigned may be the case for which they have been hoping. With no clues and no witnesses to a murder that happened in the middle of the night, it will take a miracle to solve it. Well, a miracle or one very frightened, traumatized, six-year-old child who can neither speak nor hear. A child who is missing. Did she meet the same fate as her father?
Widow Amelia Greystone is shocked and amazed when young Maeve Pritchard shows up at her door. The child is barefoot, dirty, still in her nightwear, and frightened beyond measure, but she has managed to travel across London on her own. Amelia takes Maeve in, cleans her up, and then heads out to let her father know where Maeve is and that she is safe.
This author weaves a tale of intrigue and treachery that will have you biting your nails wondering who did it and what their motives could have been. Your heart will break for poor orphaned Maeve as she tries to communicate what happened to her father, and you will commiserate with Henry as every effort to find a clue yields nothing. Of course, you will also smile and sing a happy song when Henry identifies the villain.
I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what happens in the next one. I particularly enjoyed the author’s ability to set a scene and make you feel the emotions that were taking place. Another thing I enjoyed was the very unique setting and profession of the victim. Who would have thought ravens could have been an integral part of a book – and that you would love it? Yet, it is true. With so many red herrings and suspects, it is a wonder Henry and Amelia manage to put it all together. This is an intriguing, interesting, story from the unsettling first chapters through the twist at the end.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: The Field & Greystone Series
Publication Date: 9/17/24
Period: Victorian London. 1883
What a delightful surprise to find this outstanding historical romance author making her first foray into the world of historical mysteries. She did prodigious amounts of research, is true to the period in which the story is set, and created an atmospheric story that will pull you in from the first dark, eerie, fog-filled scene and hold you until the last word on the last page.
Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field has a long and illustrious history to live up to as both his father and grandfather were outstanding Chief Inspectors before him. Everyone is always watching him – hoping for a mistake – so they can feel better about their own mediocrity. The case to which he has just been assigned may be the case for which they have been hoping. With no clues and no witnesses to a murder that happened in the middle of the night, it will take a miracle to solve it. Well, a miracle or one very frightened, traumatized, six-year-old child who can neither speak nor hear. A child who is missing. Did she meet the same fate as her father?
Widow Amelia Greystone is shocked and amazed when young Maeve Pritchard shows up at her door. The child is barefoot, dirty, still in her nightwear, and frightened beyond measure, but she has managed to travel across London on her own. Amelia takes Maeve in, cleans her up, and then heads out to let her father know where Maeve is and that she is safe.
This author weaves a tale of intrigue and treachery that will have you biting your nails wondering who did it and what their motives could have been. Your heart will break for poor orphaned Maeve as she tries to communicate what happened to her father, and you will commiserate with Henry as every effort to find a clue yields nothing. Of course, you will also smile and sing a happy song when Henry identifies the villain.
I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what happens in the next one. I particularly enjoyed the author’s ability to set a scene and make you feel the emotions that were taking place. Another thing I enjoyed was the very unique setting and profession of the victim. Who would have thought ravens could have been an integral part of a book – and that you would love it? Yet, it is true. With so many red herrings and suspects, it is a wonder Henry and Amelia manage to put it all together. This is an intriguing, interesting, story from the unsettling first chapters through the twist at the end.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 6, 2024
A Yeoman warder Aberforth Pritchard is killed at the London Tower and his daughter is left an orphan. He guards the Ravens! One escapes and leads him somewhere he should not have been! Maeve can not speak or hear but is very intelligent and she runs literally thru London and finds her way to Amelia Greystones home!
They met a few weeks prior along with her father and it is unclear how she ran all that way and why she chose Amelia!
Amelia immediately gets a message to Inspector Henry Fields at Scotland Yard who has just been placed on the case!
Maeve has witnessed something terrifying and both he and Amelia are trying to win Maeve’s trust!
But the killer is not done and when they strike again and the victim’s death is a copycat of Maeve father more pressure is put on Henry to solve the crimes! But someone knows where the only witness is and will stop at nothing to end her life!
When Henry is assigned a “partner” and he does way more harm then good! Maeve is taken and the pieces are coming together on why those men were murdered and who the killers are!
Henry needs to stop their plans and find Maeve while a madman with a knife is determined to cause mayhem!
Whew this is one wild ride! Bravo! Love this series!
They met a few weeks prior along with her father and it is unclear how she ran all that way and why she chose Amelia!
Amelia immediately gets a message to Inspector Henry Fields at Scotland Yard who has just been placed on the case!
Maeve has witnessed something terrifying and both he and Amelia are trying to win Maeve’s trust!
But the killer is not done and when they strike again and the victim’s death is a copycat of Maeve father more pressure is put on Henry to solve the crimes! But someone knows where the only witness is and will stop at nothing to end her life!
When Henry is assigned a “partner” and he does way more harm then good! Maeve is taken and the pieces are coming together on why those men were murdered and who the killers are!
Henry needs to stop their plans and find Maeve while a madman with a knife is determined to cause mayhem!
Whew this is one wild ride! Bravo! Love this series!
October 13, 2024
Disclaimer, I love this author! I have read some from each of her series and love them all. This novel is no exception. She started a new series in a new genre, brave but she was definitely ready. The story starts out gruesome and tragic. Real people doing their jobs, love the realness and insecurities. This story surrounds a man, woman and child; how is that for an additional/continuation story line. Can't wait! The man is the main detective in charge, he has not solved the case of the woman's husband's death. The woman is a scientist, wealthy in her own right and intelligent. They discuss the case. This doesn't help solve the case faster but makes it so suspenseful. The detectives get a clue mid-stream and it's like they forget about it and the whole time I was like clue, clue, clue! So many side stories, but not too many, it keeps you on your toes. It's like you can see this evolving into more stories or maybe that is what I am hoping! This little girl is so special and unique, she is the central person of the story but even if she wasn't she would steal the show, she will make you laugh out loud at times. This novel will have all of your emotions coming out, it will shock you. I recommend this book, enjoy it.
December 29, 2024
A worthwhile read
The story is moderately well written. Character development is good, though it could benefit to develop the main characters a little more deeply. Appreciated the plot development, though there were instances where things lagged a bit. The relationship developing between Henry and Amelia is realistic, feeling quite natural. They are likable and considerate of the thoughts and ideas of others, without coming across as arrogant or too self assured… They feel very “human.“
There are several instances of excitement. However, based on the crimes and the intent, I would have felt much better that the climax of the story included someone getting beaten up soundly. Justice is served, which is a central theme of the story, and in a fictional writing like this, it would be nice to see anyone responsible for such terrible deeds get knocked down a peg or two—at least in a fictional sense.
Overall, I enjoyed this book despite the slow areas. And I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I would recommend it.
The story is moderately well written. Character development is good, though it could benefit to develop the main characters a little more deeply. Appreciated the plot development, though there were instances where things lagged a bit. The relationship developing between Henry and Amelia is realistic, feeling quite natural. They are likable and considerate of the thoughts and ideas of others, without coming across as arrogant or too self assured… They feel very “human.“
There are several instances of excitement. However, based on the crimes and the intent, I would have felt much better that the climax of the story included someone getting beaten up soundly. Justice is served, which is a central theme of the story, and in a fictional writing like this, it would be nice to see anyone responsible for such terrible deeds get knocked down a peg or two—at least in a fictional sense.
Overall, I enjoyed this book despite the slow areas. And I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I would recommend it.
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