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Shilling & Florin Mysteries #1
Shilling & Florin Book One: The Jack of Hearts Murders
A serial killer is stalking the streets of Victorian London and no one is safe…
Charles Shilling, empathetic genius and amateur sleuth, has no love for the aristocratic system and it doesn’t much love him. A scruffy and rebellious anarchist, he keeps out of trouble with the law by solving more crimes than he commits. But this latest case is the worst he’s ever faced. Shilling is at a loss and, if he wants to save lives, he needs help.
Amelia Florin, brilliant medical student and noblewoman, is desperate to stop the killer. Every new victim makes her feel like she’s the one being hunted, and Shilling is the only person who values her insight. Endearingly roguish, she is certain she can overlook his social standing to work with him. Unless the disapproval of her elitist fiancé lands them both in the killer’s sights first…
Can they stop the murderer before it’s too late, or will they be the next victims?
The Jack of Hearts Murders is the first book in the slow burn series of Shilling & Florin Mysteries. Set in an alternate and progressive universe, Shilling & Florin are on the case in a diverse and unique portrayal of London. Explore the world and crack the case in The Jack of Hearts Murders now!
Charles Shilling, empathetic genius and amateur sleuth, has no love for the aristocratic system and it doesn’t much love him. A scruffy and rebellious anarchist, he keeps out of trouble with the law by solving more crimes than he commits. But this latest case is the worst he’s ever faced. Shilling is at a loss and, if he wants to save lives, he needs help.
Amelia Florin, brilliant medical student and noblewoman, is desperate to stop the killer. Every new victim makes her feel like she’s the one being hunted, and Shilling is the only person who values her insight. Endearingly roguish, she is certain she can overlook his social standing to work with him. Unless the disapproval of her elitist fiancé lands them both in the killer’s sights first…
Can they stop the murderer before it’s too late, or will they be the next victims?
The Jack of Hearts Murders is the first book in the slow burn series of Shilling & Florin Mysteries. Set in an alternate and progressive universe, Shilling & Florin are on the case in a diverse and unique portrayal of London. Explore the world and crack the case in The Jack of Hearts Murders now!
- GenresMysteryHistorical
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2024
118 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Kate Haley
30 books72 followersKate Haley is a speculative fiction author who works predominantly in fantasy and horror.
While currently content to fill their days with writing and table-top RPGs, their grander plans involve world domination. Something akin to the tyranny of the greatest city atop the Disc would be an acceptable standard. They believe a super-villainous overlord would be an upgrade, given that our current villains lack style and imagination.
After all, super-villainy requires Presentation.
If you like their references, consider visiting their website and join the mailing list for access to free books and cool insights. You can also get in touch through the website regarding their work, your position in future slave armies, or a general interest in all things nerdy and wonderful.
While currently content to fill their days with writing and table-top RPGs, their grander plans involve world domination. Something akin to the tyranny of the greatest city atop the Disc would be an acceptable standard. They believe a super-villainous overlord would be an upgrade, given that our current villains lack style and imagination.
After all, super-villainy requires Presentation.
If you like their references, consider visiting their website and join the mailing list for access to free books and cool insights. You can also get in touch through the website regarding their work, your position in future slave armies, or a general interest in all things nerdy and wonderful.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 27, 2024
In the shadowed alleys of an alternate Victorian London, where gas lamps flicker and the fog conceals dark secrets, "Shilling & Florin Book One: The Jack of Hearts Murders" by Kate Haley emerges as a masterful blend of intrigue and intellect. Haley's prose, rich with the nuances of the period, transports the reader into a world where every detail is meticulously crafted and every character brims with life.
Our tale begins with the introduction of Charles Shilling, an empathetic genius whose keen mind is matched only by his compassionate heart. Shilling's world is one of sharp contrasts, where the opulence of the noble class meets the stark reality of the underprivileged. It is within this delicate balance that he encounters Amelia Florin, a brilliant medical student and noblewoman whose intellect and determination prove to be indispensable.
As the duo embarks on their perilous journey to unmask the enigmatic serial killer known as the Jack of Hearts, they traverse the city's labyrinthine streets, encountering both allies and adversaries. The narrative, steeped in suspense and punctuated by moments of profound revelation, keeps the reader ensnared in its intricate web.
Haley's attention to detail is commendable, as she paints vivid portraits of Victorian London—its grand manors, bustling markets, and ominous backstreets. The authenticity of the setting enhances the reader's immersion, making every twist and turn of the plot a palpable experience.
What sets this novel apart is the depth of its characters. Shilling's intellectual prowess and Florin's medical acumen create a dynamic partnership that is both compelling and endearing. Their interactions are laced with wit and mutual respect, reflecting a partnership that transcends mere convenience.
In essence, "The Jack of Hearts Murders" is a triumph of historical mystery, a tale that deftly combines the elegance of the Victorian era with the timeless appeal of a detective story. It is a must-read for those who revel in the dance of shadows and light, where every clue leads closer to the heart of darkness.
Our tale begins with the introduction of Charles Shilling, an empathetic genius whose keen mind is matched only by his compassionate heart. Shilling's world is one of sharp contrasts, where the opulence of the noble class meets the stark reality of the underprivileged. It is within this delicate balance that he encounters Amelia Florin, a brilliant medical student and noblewoman whose intellect and determination prove to be indispensable.
As the duo embarks on their perilous journey to unmask the enigmatic serial killer known as the Jack of Hearts, they traverse the city's labyrinthine streets, encountering both allies and adversaries. The narrative, steeped in suspense and punctuated by moments of profound revelation, keeps the reader ensnared in its intricate web.
Haley's attention to detail is commendable, as she paints vivid portraits of Victorian London—its grand manors, bustling markets, and ominous backstreets. The authenticity of the setting enhances the reader's immersion, making every twist and turn of the plot a palpable experience.
What sets this novel apart is the depth of its characters. Shilling's intellectual prowess and Florin's medical acumen create a dynamic partnership that is both compelling and endearing. Their interactions are laced with wit and mutual respect, reflecting a partnership that transcends mere convenience.
In essence, "The Jack of Hearts Murders" is a triumph of historical mystery, a tale that deftly combines the elegance of the Victorian era with the timeless appeal of a detective story. It is a must-read for those who revel in the dance of shadows and light, where every clue leads closer to the heart of darkness.
November 16, 2024
Charlie is a young man who is unique. He is a private investigator who has a good track record from a young age. He was taken along with this career by Lord Henry Pound, the Lord Chief Justice. A series of murders of women has occurred over 15 months. All working women. The Chief Justice has put Charlie on the case and has allowed his adopted daughter, Amy to assist him.
Amy has led a privileged life as the adopted daughter of the Chief Justice. She is also engaged to his son, Harry, a litigator. She volunteers to assist Charlie especially as to the body since she is one day from graduation as a full fledged Doctor.
The two work well together. Charlie realizes that in Amy's mind he's found a like minded individual. Together they start to track the murdered dubbed The Jack of Hearts. As they work together Amy discovers that Charlie is rough around the edges and calls it like he sees it but is an all around good person. As they investigate Charlie starts to put two and two together and it isn't long before Amy also starts to piece the pieces of the puzzle together. Now Charlie's main focus is on protecting Amy while she is slowly coming to a horrendous conclusion that knocks her world off kilter.
Will they find the killer? Will Charlie be able to keep her safe? And why does being in her orbit his brain seems to malefunction?
A fantastic and mind consuming story. A great read for all!!!
Amy has led a privileged life as the adopted daughter of the Chief Justice. She is also engaged to his son, Harry, a litigator. She volunteers to assist Charlie especially as to the body since she is one day from graduation as a full fledged Doctor.
The two work well together. Charlie realizes that in Amy's mind he's found a like minded individual. Together they start to track the murdered dubbed The Jack of Hearts. As they work together Amy discovers that Charlie is rough around the edges and calls it like he sees it but is an all around good person. As they investigate Charlie starts to put two and two together and it isn't long before Amy also starts to piece the pieces of the puzzle together. Now Charlie's main focus is on protecting Amy while she is slowly coming to a horrendous conclusion that knocks her world off kilter.
Will they find the killer? Will Charlie be able to keep her safe? And why does being in her orbit his brain seems to malefunction?
A fantastic and mind consuming story. A great read for all!!!
December 1, 2024
The Jack of Hearts Murders is the first book in the Shilling and Florin series by Kate Haley. I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The first couple of chapters are slow-paced, giving you time to get to know the characters before getting into the meat of the story. The worldbuilding is well done, drawing you into the lively imaginative and progressive depiction of an alternate Victorian London society. A diverse cast with strong chemistry between them allows for a juxtaposition of light and dark moments, including several moments that had me actually laughing out loud. The mystery is well-plotted, with several clues that allow you to feel like you’re solving the case alongside the main characters. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the rest of the series.
The first couple of chapters are slow-paced, giving you time to get to know the characters before getting into the meat of the story. The worldbuilding is well done, drawing you into the lively imaginative and progressive depiction of an alternate Victorian London society. A diverse cast with strong chemistry between them allows for a juxtaposition of light and dark moments, including several moments that had me actually laughing out loud. The mystery is well-plotted, with several clues that allow you to feel like you’re solving the case alongside the main characters. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the rest of the series.
December 13, 2024
Audiobook: I was entertained by this story which proposed an alternative, historical, portrayal of London. I liked the characters. Shilling, with his autistic characteristics, reminded me of another famous literary crime solver. I admired Florin, who was a medical student on the verge of graduation. I enjoyed the interactions between Shilling and Florin, and I'm looking forward to more stories featuring these two characters. I thought Kate Haley's narration was good; however, it took a little while for my ear to pick up the accented cadence, but once my ear became attuned, I enjoyed her performance. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
January 2, 2025
I adored this book from beginning to end. Charles Schilling is possibly my favorite thing on the planet. Picture Columbo meets Sherlock Holmes meets Hercules Poirot and then add in a beautiful female Watson. If Schilling was a real person and I wasn't married, I would search him out to marry him. I LOVE this character. I giggled through 90% of the book. I have a detective mind and figured out the perp right away without any clues. But to watch the way they put the pieces together and work together was a beautiful thing. and that KISS!!!!! BEAUTIFUL! I am looking forward to reading more from Kate Haley.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 2, 2024
Shilling & Florin Book One: The Jack of Hearts Murders: A Shilling & Florin Mystery (Shilling & Florin Mysteries 1), my first highly-enjoyable read from author Kate Haley, purportably the first in her Shilling & Florin Mysteries series. “I received a Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to reading more from this author with Gateway to Dark Stars (The Vincent Temple Trilogy Book 1) just added to my TBR list. I lost sleep reading this book, staying up all night to complete it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018.
December 3, 2024
Shilling & Florin - The Jack of Hearts Murders by Kate Haley
5/5 ⭐
'Odd duck' Charles Shilling’s rebellious genius and Amelia Florin’s noble, determined spirit make an unbeatable duo. I loved the witty banter between the two along with their slow-burn chemistry! The progressive twist on historical London that Kate Healy created in Shilling & Florin provides the perfect backdrop for this cozy murder mystery!
Shilling & Florin - The Jack of Hearts Murders releases December 1st! Available for pre-order on Amazon now!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
5/5 ⭐
'Odd duck' Charles Shilling’s rebellious genius and Amelia Florin’s noble, determined spirit make an unbeatable duo. I loved the witty banter between the two along with their slow-burn chemistry! The progressive twist on historical London that Kate Healy created in Shilling & Florin provides the perfect backdrop for this cozy murder mystery!
Shilling & Florin - The Jack of Hearts Murders releases December 1st! Available for pre-order on Amazon now!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 4, 2024
Wow! I loved this book! It brought to mind a Sherlock Holmes type mystery and the characters were wonderful! The author does an excellent job of setting the scene and I couldn't put the book down.
I usually give a brief synopsis of what I’ve read, but- NO! Not this time! You have to read it yourself!
You have to read about the murders in the London streets and the way Charles Schilling and Amelia Florin join forces to solve them, using his strange type of genius and her medical insight.
Read this book- you’ll thank yourself!
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and I am excited to leave this voluntary review.
I usually give a brief synopsis of what I’ve read, but- NO! Not this time! You have to read it yourself!
You have to read about the murders in the London streets and the way Charles Schilling and Amelia Florin join forces to solve them, using his strange type of genius and her medical insight.
Read this book- you’ll thank yourself!
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and I am excited to leave this voluntary review.
March 12, 2025
Just a little too slow for me…
As I’m sure my opinion of this book greatly differs from most I did enjoy the book. I just find it to have started very very slow. I struggled with about the first 30% of the book because I just felt like it didn’t add much to the plot, I was finally able to push past that part of the book and it did move along fairly quickly And actually was very intriguing, but I also feel like the ending was very abrupt and as a person that does not like cliffhangers, I found it to be very disappointing, but like I said the story within itself was well written.
As I’m sure my opinion of this book greatly differs from most I did enjoy the book. I just find it to have started very very slow. I struggled with about the first 30% of the book because I just felt like it didn’t add much to the plot, I was finally able to push past that part of the book and it did move along fairly quickly And actually was very intriguing, but I also feel like the ending was very abrupt and as a person that does not like cliffhangers, I found it to be very disappointing, but like I said the story within itself was well written.
April 26, 2025
Somewhat slow to start based on the world build. I still wanted a bit more explanation since this was a setting similar to Victorian London but much more promiscuous - maybe? Shades of Jack the Ripper - even using the name - as well as similar in some ways to the Henri Davenport series by Raconteur. The character introductions were good, and I enjoyed the development of both Amy and Charlie. Secondary characters were fun but a bit bizarre in ways. The murderer was far from a surprise and not explained that well. The ending was staggeringly abrupt. I can only hope there is some additional conclusion included in Book 2. I'll have to try it just to see.
Read
December 2, 2024I enjoyed this mystery series beginning where I was introduced to the 2 main characters and their friends and situations. These two were a blast as they start the story by beginning to work with each other and really get to know one another besides in passing as they had before the story began. Gave an interesting view on a slightly different Victorian London era story as these two work together to solve their first mystery together. It had me laughing at times yet kept me reading to the end to see what would happen next.
December 17, 2024
A great read. A wonderful surprise and find.
I am grateful to BookSirens for providing me with a copy to read and provide a honest review in due course.
Sounds a bit like school perhaps but in the end it was more a labour of love. Here is an author and a book I might never have come across or had the opportunity to read.
Being the first in a series the initial half of a book can seem slow, a little ponderous as characters are built and established. Indeed the first couple of chapters were the hardest part of this read for me as this alternative reality was laid out and set up. However, the changes are subtle at times and the fictional world created implied and nuanced.
The skill of the author though is that all is not unfamiliar and interactions and relationships remain familiar.
This is a Victoria Age drawing so cleverly on the Jack the Ripper case in our historical universe.
While I have read various re-incarnations of this serial killer, this story is a real brief of fresh air and a well crafted re-imaging of why such cases are so difficult to solve.
I loved the changes implied in this account.
The sexual freedom and liberation which could not have been spoken of in our Victorian England. I also appreciated that having suspicions of who the perpetrator was isn’t enough when society has rules and conventions. That no police department would attribute the murdering of prostitutes in Whitechapel with someone in the aristocracy, let alone, believe and attribute the crimes to a member of the Royal Family.I believe these considerations were part of the writer’s creative process. Consequently they have produced an innovative murder mystery where identification of ‘Jack’ was only part of the effort to solve the case. Motive is also needed and in a time lacking DNA and solid forensic proof, being caught in the act may also be needed to obtain a conviction. What a brilliant place to start then, for a mystery writer; this contrast between two realities. Comparing our understanding of Jack the Ripper with their fictional Jack of Hearts and how such an impossible case could be solved. Loved it.
The unlikely duo who will take the reader on this journey from senseless stabbings to sensational solution are Shilling and Florin. Their relationship is unconventional and the personal chemistry established in this first episode is quite explosive. I can’t wait for more stories and collaborative investigations and I am so pleased to have got in at the start of this fascinating series of crime thrillers.
I am grateful to BookSirens for providing me with a copy to read and provide a honest review in due course.
Sounds a bit like school perhaps but in the end it was more a labour of love. Here is an author and a book I might never have come across or had the opportunity to read.
Being the first in a series the initial half of a book can seem slow, a little ponderous as characters are built and established. Indeed the first couple of chapters were the hardest part of this read for me as this alternative reality was laid out and set up. However, the changes are subtle at times and the fictional world created implied and nuanced.
The skill of the author though is that all is not unfamiliar and interactions and relationships remain familiar.
This is a Victoria Age drawing so cleverly on the Jack the Ripper case in our historical universe.
While I have read various re-incarnations of this serial killer, this story is a real brief of fresh air and a well crafted re-imaging of why such cases are so difficult to solve.
I loved the changes implied in this account.
The sexual freedom and liberation which could not have been spoken of in our Victorian England. I also appreciated that having suspicions of who the perpetrator was isn’t enough when society has rules and conventions. That no police department would attribute the murdering of prostitutes in Whitechapel with someone in the aristocracy, let alone, believe and attribute the crimes to a member of the Royal Family.I believe these considerations were part of the writer’s creative process. Consequently they have produced an innovative murder mystery where identification of ‘Jack’ was only part of the effort to solve the case. Motive is also needed and in a time lacking DNA and solid forensic proof, being caught in the act may also be needed to obtain a conviction. What a brilliant place to start then, for a mystery writer; this contrast between two realities. Comparing our understanding of Jack the Ripper with their fictional Jack of Hearts and how such an impossible case could be solved. Loved it.
The unlikely duo who will take the reader on this journey from senseless stabbings to sensational solution are Shilling and Florin. Their relationship is unconventional and the personal chemistry established in this first episode is quite explosive. I can’t wait for more stories and collaborative investigations and I am so pleased to have got in at the start of this fascinating series of crime thrillers.
December 5, 2024
Kate Haley does it again with this absolutely delightful little gas lamp murder mystery.
It's refreshing to have a genius detective character who actually needs his sidekick to help him solve the mystery and not just to monologue at. And of course there's Kate Haley's usual array of wonderfully colourful side characters (how does she make you love them in less than 100 pages???)
Loved every second, can't wait for the rest of the series.
It's refreshing to have a genius detective character who actually needs his sidekick to help him solve the mystery and not just to monologue at. And of course there's Kate Haley's usual array of wonderfully colourful side characters (how does she make you love them in less than 100 pages???)
Loved every second, can't wait for the rest of the series.
September 27, 2025
Cute and fun
I read a lot of reviews before starting this book, about it being too slow and there wasn't any romance, but this story was only approx. 250 pages, I think it's developing quite nicely for that length. This was fun, and I actually liked some of the modern qualities in a period piece. Granted, there were some things i could have done without, but overall, this was a nice story. I will definitely be checking out more.
I read a lot of reviews before starting this book, about it being too slow and there wasn't any romance, but this story was only approx. 250 pages, I think it's developing quite nicely for that length. This was fun, and I actually liked some of the modern qualities in a period piece. Granted, there were some things i could have done without, but overall, this was a nice story. I will definitely be checking out more.
November 15, 2024
The first couple of chapters were hard for me to adjust to. The new universe took some time to form, and I felt I was missing something. But then I was caught up in the excitement.
I am looking forward to book 2.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I am looking forward to book 2.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 2, 2024
This was such a fun (and funny) read! Great chemistry between Shilling and Florin. Awesome twist which really intensified the stakes - I couldn't put it down. I feel like it was kind of like Sherlock, if 'Sherlock' was a sweetheart and 'Watson' was a quirky doctor being targeted by the killer. In summary: cozy, fun, romantic page-turner.
January 9, 2025
Movie Quality
I love a beautiful, intelligent and cunning Black Woman in this story she is all of these things I love!! Amy and Charlie are both unstoppable forces to be reckoned with!! Excellent mystery with the Jack of Hearts! Hopefully more details about Jack will be answered in the sequel!!
I love a beautiful, intelligent and cunning Black Woman in this story she is all of these things I love!! Amy and Charlie are both unstoppable forces to be reckoned with!! Excellent mystery with the Jack of Hearts! Hopefully more details about Jack will be answered in the sequel!!
August 15, 2025
This was a fun read! And my first reading from this author and I’ll definitely continue! Charlie is my boy!! He gives Sherlock vibes but younger and blonde lol. The story was easy to follow, not ground breaking bc I figured out who the murderer was pretty early (although I was sussing almost everyone lol) but I still enjoyed reading this. Can’t wait to continue this series 🤗
December 5, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book. Some parts had me laughing . I love mysteries with a plot to them and this book did not disappoint. Wonderful read. I am certainly glad that I was given a chance to read this book. If you have not read it, then I highly recommend that you do.
November 16, 2024
Nice start to the series. Charles and Amelia make a good couple and the mystery was good. I figured it out ahead, but the story was solid and the characters relatable. Can't wait for the next book!
March 22, 2025
This one was just fun!
Great characters, even the side characters were fun.
I'm looking forward to more in this series.
Great characters, even the side characters were fun.
I'm looking forward to more in this series.
dnf
July 3, 2025soft dnf
November 24, 2025
A good start for a new series.
I look foerward to more.
I look foerward to more.
December 2, 2024
Quirky and brilliant or an absolute lunatic doing horrific experiments in his basement, spending on who you ask, Charlie is a young man working alongside the police. His original way of thinking has earned him varying degrees of respect by solving some of their trickiest crimes.
Amy, a noblewoman on the verge of graduating as a doctor. Despite her brilliant mind, she has never quite been valued for the amazing mind she is.
Charlie is tracking the "Jack of Hearts" killer, always out of reach and on the verge of alluding him. With constant mentions that all the victims have a striking resemblance to Amy, she offers to help Charlie.
Great and dynamic characters. An anti-elitist bread lover and a strong and extremely independent woman, these two are a fantastic duo. I absolutely devoured this book in a day. Fast paced and absolutely gripping. Very happy to see this is the start of a series!
Amy, a noblewoman on the verge of graduating as a doctor. Despite her brilliant mind, she has never quite been valued for the amazing mind she is.
Charlie is tracking the "Jack of Hearts" killer, always out of reach and on the verge of alluding him. With constant mentions that all the victims have a striking resemblance to Amy, she offers to help Charlie.
Great and dynamic characters. An anti-elitist bread lover and a strong and extremely independent woman, these two are a fantastic duo. I absolutely devoured this book in a day. Fast paced and absolutely gripping. Very happy to see this is the start of a series!
February 23, 2025
This offers a story set in an alternate Victorian London, where grimy streets, dark secrets, and despite different social norms from our own, it nonetheless creates the perfect stage for a serial killer mystery. This novel draws clear inspiration from Sherlock Holmes and reminds me of The Alienist while carving out its own unique voice.
The standout feature here is the duo at the heart of the story. Charles Shilling, the scrappy, brilliant, and hilariously oblivious anarchist, is a refreshing take on the eccentric sleuth archetype. He is not needlessly cruel and his relationships with the secondary characters are charming. His chemistry with Amelia Florin, a fiercely intelligent and ambitious medical student navigating the confines of her aristocratic status, makes for an engaging partnership. Their mutual respect and subtle affection for one another give the story heart, adding layers to the murder investigation. Please tell me they will end up together in the future!
Haley’s version of Victorian London feels both familiar and unique, with societal shifts that challenge traditional hierarchies. The dark, dreary atmosphere enhances the tension, drawing readers into the cobblestone alleys and gaslit streets where danger lurks around every corner. The elevated position of sex workers is something that I really loved.
The mystery itself is well-crafted and compelling enough to keep you turning the pages, even if I wasn't surprised. Haley balances the intrigue with moments of wit and depth, making the story feel as much about the characters’ journey as the case at hand. It’s a satisfying blend of procedural sleuthing and personal stakes.
Fans of historical mysteries, alternative histories, or simply well-written, character-driven Victorian crime stories will find much to enjoy here. The Jack of Hearts Murders is a clever, atmospheric tale with memorable leads and plenty of potential for future installments—I can’t wait to see where Shilling and Florin go next!
Thanks SO much to the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
The standout feature here is the duo at the heart of the story. Charles Shilling, the scrappy, brilliant, and hilariously oblivious anarchist, is a refreshing take on the eccentric sleuth archetype. He is not needlessly cruel and his relationships with the secondary characters are charming. His chemistry with Amelia Florin, a fiercely intelligent and ambitious medical student navigating the confines of her aristocratic status, makes for an engaging partnership. Their mutual respect and subtle affection for one another give the story heart, adding layers to the murder investigation. Please tell me they will end up together in the future!
Haley’s version of Victorian London feels both familiar and unique, with societal shifts that challenge traditional hierarchies. The dark, dreary atmosphere enhances the tension, drawing readers into the cobblestone alleys and gaslit streets where danger lurks around every corner. The elevated position of sex workers is something that I really loved.
The mystery itself is well-crafted and compelling enough to keep you turning the pages, even if I wasn't surprised. Haley balances the intrigue with moments of wit and depth, making the story feel as much about the characters’ journey as the case at hand. It’s a satisfying blend of procedural sleuthing and personal stakes.
Fans of historical mysteries, alternative histories, or simply well-written, character-driven Victorian crime stories will find much to enjoy here. The Jack of Hearts Murders is a clever, atmospheric tale with memorable leads and plenty of potential for future installments—I can’t wait to see where Shilling and Florin go next!
Thanks SO much to the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
January 4, 2025
Utterly predictable and a Stalking Jack the Ripper rip-off of I ever saw one, BUT. Not badly done 😎
December 3, 2025
I absolutely love this. I love this more than I ever expected to! There is something so fun and gritty while being hopeful and sweet. I loved the idiosyncratic and gentle Shilling and Amy was everything you would expect in a boisterous and passionate woman. Throw in the mystery, the tension, the intrigue... I absolutely loved it! I cannot wait for the next.
February 28, 2025
I really enjoyed it. I was expecting it to be dark, given what it was about, but it was nice and light and easy to read.
I love the fact that Kate named a lot of the characters after currency.
The characters are easy to like and the world is interesting.
I love the fact that Kate named a lot of the characters after currency.
The characters are easy to like and the world is interesting.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews