The past proves deadly when a witness to a case gone cold is murdered—a chilling message meant to silence those involved...
Summoned to Gravesend, Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field is shocked to discover the body of a man he interviewed only days earlier. The brutal timing suggests his inquiries into the cold case that has haunted him for well over a year struck a nerve. But with more questions than clues, the investigation threatens to once again grind to a halt.
Widow Amelia Greystone’s quiet life is upended by murder for a third time, this one striking dangerously close to home. A mysterious clue hidden in her late husband’s desk compels her to investigate—a decision that forces her to confront the possibility that she didn’t know her husband at all, and their life together was a lie.
As Amelia and Henry’s paths intertwine, a second body is found, dragging them deep into the shadows of London’s underworld. There, the lines between loyalty and betrayal blur, and the answers they seek may cost more than they’re prepared to lose.
Dark secrets, surprising twists, and a relentless killer collide in this gripping historical mystery.
This third novel in The Field & Greystone series set on the dark streets of Victorian London is perfect for fans of Irina Shapiro, Andrea Penrose, and Charles Finch.
Lana Williams is the USA Today Bestselling Author of 50 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/.
Summoned to Gravesend, Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field is shocked to discover the body of a man he interviewed only days earlier. The brutal timing suggests his inquiries into the cold case of Matthew Greystone, that has haunted him for well over a year struck a nerve. Widow Amelia Greystone’s quiet life is upended by murder for a third time, this one striking dangerously close to home when it’s an acquaintance & competitor of her late husband. Amelia and Henry’s paths intertwine, once more as the body count rises The third book in the series & whilst it could be read on its own I’d strongly recommend reading in order to fully appreciate it. A very well written page turner, which drew me in from the first chilling pages until the epilogue, I read it in two sittings, the characters had depth, the pace was very good, there were edge of the seat moments as well as twists & turns. I love both Henry & Amelia & I’m loving how they not only work well together but how their relationship is growing & deepening. There is also a strong cast of secondary characters who add to the books. An engrossing riveting book & I’m now eagerly awaiting the fourth book I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
3.5? The mystery in this one moved along pretty week and there is finally some resolution regarding Amelia’s husband’s murder, but the chemistry has simmered to such a slow burn that it has almost fizzled. The final scene had a more thorough description of the FOOD they ate their first date (??) than it did about any kind of feeling. Could he have at least hugged the woman after rescuing her from a murderous kidnapper? There is dragging it out and just dragging it on. I recommend the Bow Street Duchess serious or the Beatrice Hyde Clare mysteries for a better paced romance/crime-solving duo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
It was almost impossible to put the third book in the Field & Greystone series down--I was 110% invested in finding out what was going on pretty much from page one.
We start with a murder--of course--which upon further investigation looks like it might be connected to the event that brought Inspector Henry Field and Mrs. Amelia Greystone together in the first place, the murder of her husband a year prior. Questioning the dead man's neighbors draws in another cold case that Field and his sergeant had been investigating...a coincidence? Or a connection?
The death of a man who owned the same kind of business that her husband did brings up all kinds of feelings for Amelia, and she almost can't help herself from getting involved. She meets with another shopkeeper and his wife who she used to be friendly with when her husband was alive, and the results of those encounters are not at all what she expected. She also gets a note from the last person she expected to ever hear from again, and yikes! the emotional complications there are intense.
Basically, we have Henry doing his job and being all investigative and professional, while Amelia jumps in on her own to "help," somehow managing to be in the right place at the wrong--or is it right?--time, which then throws them both together again, stirring up all kinds of feelings as they go along.
Shared dinners! A tyrannical cat! Death threats! An MC in actual danger! (Again...maybe even as per usual?) This latest installment has it all--and then ends with a cliffhanger of sorts. I need that next book *now* Ms Williams, because if these two don't get together soon for real, I don't know what I'm going to do! ;)
And sure, we could finally solve all of Henry's cold cases while we're at it. I suppose that would be nice too.
Technically, you *could* read this book as a standalone, but since it's starting to become clear that Inspector Field's cases might be more interconnected than they originally seemed, why not start with #1? (And do you really want to miss the origins of the MCs relationship? No, you do not.) Read them all. In order. ASAP ;)
Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Another great book in the series. A trader steals a valuable Egyptian scarab from the wrong man. Inspector Henry Field is called in to investigate the subsequent murder and discovers said scarab amongst the debris left in the house. Amelia Greystone again involves herself in the investigation as she believes that there is a connection to her dead husband. She receives a letter implying that the sender knows the identity of her husband’s killer. Following up leads to dissatisfaction as nothing is revealed. Amelia continues to seek answers by visiting a current trader called Locke but nothing is revealed. The inspector pursues leads which have him twisting and turning in various directions. The name Edgarton emerges as a leading figure in the criminal world likely to be involved in a variety of illegal ventures that Scotland Yard is dealing with. Amelia is used in a sting operation which leads to the discovery of Edgarton’s location but causes Henry to regret her involvement when she is kidnapped and threatened. A successful rescue leads to the belief that all is resolved when arrests are made but news of an escape leads to consternation and to the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book- well written with extensive character development.
Lana Williams knows how to grab my attention from the beginning of the novel and keep it until the end. I feel like I'm walking with the characters as they go through their daily lives. The characters are so well written and they feel like they are coming to life as I read the novel. I love working through the clues with Henry, Amelia and the supporting characters in the story. I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
5 stars! Loving this new mystery series! The latest book in the series is a wonderful mix of mystery and emotion with an intriguing, twisting plot that kept me turning pages. I am really enjoying getting to know Amelia and Henry better and seeing their relationship develop. The author's descriptions make me feel as if I'm there! Such a great escape. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
This was excellent! It took me awhile to get use to the characters but this book complimented them very well that I enjoyed the flow of the story immensely.
Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field is shocked to learn that Benjamin Norris, a man he had interviewed days ago about a cold case has been found murdered in his Gravesend home. He was shot and the only clue Henry found was a, Egyptian gold scarab beetle hidden in the sofa. Benjamin Norris was an import-export merchant with a shop on Threadneedle Street, just like his cold case murder victim Matthew Greystone, making Henry wonder if the cases are connected. A thought that gains ground when Matthew’s widow Amelia contacts him with some troubling news. Henry wants nothing more than to solve Matthew’s murder, not just for himself but for Amelia, a woman he has begun to care for, but feels unable to pursue while Matthew’s murder is yet unsolved. But as he steps up his investigation of Benjamin’s murder, the bodies begin to pile up, secrets unravel, and a new villain emerges – one who has set his sights on Amelia.
Widow Amelia Greystone has not had an easy time the last few years, first her young daughter died from scarlet fever, then her husband was murdered. But she has done her best to carry on and her friendship with Inspector Field has helped her more than he could possibly know. When Amelia gets a letter from a criminal that she helped Henry capture, stating that she knows who killed Matthew, Amelia immediately contacts Henry. She goes to see Elizabeth Drake in prison, but the woman refuses to tell her who killed her husband, but she makes it clear – Matthew was not an innocent victim. Amelia is more determined than ever to find out who killed Matthew and knows that Henry is the only person she can truly trust. When their investigation leads to a dangerous crime lord, she realizes her husband was not the man she thought he was, making her question everything, including her feelings for Henry. Despite the risks, Amelia continues to aid in the investigation and ends up in the crosshairs of the man responsible for Matthew’s death.
This was another wonderful installment of the Field & Greystone series. This story sucked me in from the very first page and held me in thrall until the last word! The story has story has strong ties to the previous books and nicely sets up the next book. The ongoing relationship between Henry and Amelia continues to deepen but still remains firmly on the back burner. This book definitely gives some closure and the mystery is superb. I loved it and would happily recommend this book to my fellow Historical Mystery lovers! This is the third book in the series and while it could be read as a standalone title, I would recommend reading the series in order for the best reader experience.
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. *
This is the third book in Lana William’s Field and Greystone series, and it just keeps getting better. Henry Field is a Scotland Yard inspector anxious to prove he’s up to the prestigious reputations of his father and grandfather, who were inspectors before him. Amelia Greystone is the widow whose husband was Henry’s one, unsolved murder.
While life and coincidence have found Henry and Amelia cooperating to solve previous murders, her husband’s death was often and unspoken chasm between them. And while they’ve each grown fonder of the other over time, until the murderer is brought to justice, those feelings remain unspoken.
Now, a new murder echoes the details of Amelia’s husband’s murder. Maybe this is the clue to unlocking the answers. Did Amelia really know the man she was married to? Will the solutions bring her answers she doesn’t really want to know? And does she have knowledge the killer doesn’t want her to have?
Readers will enjoy the challenge of the who-dunnit, and fans of the series will appreciate seeing the growth in both Henry and Amelia, not to mention the tentative steps that bring them closer to each other.
The Gravesend Murder is the third book in the Field & Greystone Victorian historical mystery series by Lana Williams. Well-written and well-plotted, it is yet another intricate mystery involving Inspector Henry Field of Scotland Yard and Mrs. Amelia Greystone, a widowed amateur chemist whose husband's murder a year before Henry has been unable to solve. It also introduces the delightful Master Leopold, a cat belonging to one of the victims that endears himself not only to Amelia, but also to Mr. and Mrs. Fernsby, Amelia's butler and cook.
I very much enjoyed this entry, particularly as it resolves some unanswered questions from previous books in the series. It is full of details that are drawn out of Book 2, so I would suggest reading the series in order, especially the previous book. In some ways, the author seems to have resolved so many loose threads, particularly with regard to Matthew Greystone's death and the case Henry was investigating with his sergeant, Fletcher, in Book 2, that it almost read as if the entire series was being tied up in a bow for the reader, in case no further stories were to come. I am pleased to learn that Lana Williams has more stories in this series set for the future, and since Henry has expressed his concern that he and Amelia aren't able to move forward past friendship with her husband's unsolved murder standing between them, this may give them the perfect opportunity to get closer in the next several books. Perhaps my only less-than-stellar comment would be that, since so much ground is covered in this book to tie up the loose ends, the current mystery takes a bit of a backseat at times to the preceding two, and the story is almost too full and overly ambitious in pulling everything together. The ending of this book does leave a tendril hanging for the next book though.
Despite being a bit of a denser read for me than the prior books in the series, I am on board for the long run with Henry and Amelia, who are endearing, likable, complex and solid main characters who are easy to root for. I'm already looking forward to Book 4, The Rookery Killer.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, I am leaving my review voluntarily.
The continuation of the story between Amelia and Henry was lackluster at best. The characters were not strongly developed; there was too much inner dialogue for each of them, where she or he doubted his or her value as a person, whether the relationship was progressing, if he was, she was contributing enough to the investigation, etc. Too much of this kind of dialogue made the reading feel tedious.
The dialogue was elementary. The author seemed compelled to provide the most minute pieces of information both in conversation and in describing the story’s action, where inference would have served much better. I felt like the story dragged a lot.
While the first two books of the series were interesting, this one did not present the same level of interest or intrigue. I found myself skimming. And at its conclusion, rather than feeling excited for the next book in the series, I was simply relieved that the story was finished.
I won’t be reading the next book in the series. If a light and easy read is what you’re looking for, perhaps this will meet your expectations. But I felt that it was too much froth and not enough substance.
The third installment in this series proves once again why Inspector Henry Field and Widow Amelia Greystone are a duo to be reckoned with. When a recently interviewed man is found brutally murdered, Field finds himself drawn deeper into a cold case that has haunted him for over a year.
What set the story apart for me is the perfect blend of intricate plot and character depth. It kept me on the edge of my seat (and ignoring dinner) with unexpected twists and a sense of mounting tension. Amelia and Henry's relationship adds a compelling layer of emotional complexity to the investigation - talk about a tantalizing slow burn.
While the book can be read as a standalone, the true richness comes from following the series in order and you can thank me later when you binge-read all three. The supporting characters are expertly crafted--I loved diving deeper into this world. The Gravesend Murder is a page-turner that balances procedural details with genuine human drama, and I can't wait for the next installment in the series.
A recent murder appears to have some connections to an old case. Could Inspector Henry Field crack the case of Matthew Greystone's death, especially as he's developing feelings for his widow? Unfortunately, finding clues proves to be challenging, and things take a dark turn when there is a second murder. Will a woman facing the death penalty and a lingering unsolved case shed any light on the situation?
In this installment, we once again see Amelia Greystone assisting Henry Field with the investigations, while also facing danger from some shady characters. It's an engaging story; the end will leave you with an uneasy sense of foreboding.
I can't imagine how Ms. Williams will outdo herself after this one!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and voluntarily chose to provide my review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.The Gravesend Murder
Another great addition to this Victorian historical mystery series by Lana Williams. In this one a cold case will be connected to several new murders but will the murderer be brought to justice? Again Mrs. Amelia Greystone will be compelled to help Inspector Henry Field of Scotland Yard as he investigates the murder of Benjamin Norris, the owner of an import-export shop much like Matthew Greystone Amelia’s murdered husband a year ago.
I am always delighted whenever Amelia and Henry share the page basking in their comradeship and growing fondness to each other. Both will once again show great bravery when put to the task with Henry’s fearing for Amelia’s safety more than once and Amelia anticipating Henry’s arrival at her home when the day draws to an end. I suggest you read the previous books in this series before reading this one although not absolutely necessary but I do highly recommend all three clean mysteries with a touch of romance hiding within the characters.
I received an Advance Review Copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This author KNOWS how to write a scene that puts the reader into the room with the characters. That is the first thought I had when reading the first three pages of this story. Henry is still looking for Amelia’s husband’s murderer and the road to that discovery is riddled with questions, murders, betrayal and fear. It was adorable to watch their relationship evolve as this has GOT to be one of the slowest burn romances I have read in a long time! I adored Leopold and hope to find Perdy finally getting his due. I adored how Henry finally got his “digs” in to Perdy , but realize that will probably not be enough to quiet the man . The twists and turns are not all that shocking, but the ending definitely is! Awaiting with baded breath for the next story! I received this story for free and these are my own views
First off, I love the cover of this story and the ones of the previous two books. You get the feeling of what the story is about before turning a page.
Great main and secondary characters that kept the story very interesting. This can be standalone, but I would encourage you to read the whole series. It builds on the relationship of our MC and the storyline.
Clean story, many villains, suspense, intrigue, some violence and twists. The MC make a great team, whether solving crimes or getting to know each other.
No cheating, no cliffhanger for our couple but something happens that sets up the next story, and romance is just starting to build.
I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase this story, which I recommend.
I received ARC and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
Captivated from the first few pages, I found this intricately woven mystery kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end.
Scotland Yard Inspector Henry Field's investigation into a chilling murder reveals ties to a haunting cold case, while widow Amelia Greystone is drawn into the web of danger. The growing bond between Henry and Amelia is as compelling as the twists and turns of the plot. The richly developed main and secondary characters bring depth and complexity to the story, while the expertly paced narrative ensures it's unputdownable. I thoroughly enjoyed the slow-building romance between Henry and Amelia. This masterfully written page-turner is not only riveting but also deeply emotionally engaging. Highly recommended! I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Engaging Historical Murder Mystery with a Touch of Romance Inspector Henry Field has never stopped thinking about the unsolved murder of Amelia’s husband. Now, in the city of Gravesend, a shopkeeper is gunned down—and the case may be connected to that long-cold investigation. The killer isn’t finished, and with each new murder, it’s clear he has secrets worth killing for. Amelia is determined to uncover the truth, especially as clues tied to her late husband begin to surface. Henry wishes she’d stay out of danger, but Amelia won’t be sidelined—not when answers are so close and so personal. This story is filled with atmosphere, suspense, and twists that kept me turning the pages. Fans of historical mysteries will find much to enjoy—and there's even a slow-burning thread of romance between Amelia and Henry, if they’re brave enough to embrace it.
In the third book of this Victorian murder series, Inspector Field of Scotland Yard and the widowed Mrs. Greystone work together on a series of related murders, including that of the lady' s late husband.
Their mutual attraction builds slowly, impaired by Field's inability to close her husband's case. They are surrounded by likable characters who help their investigations and support their budding relationship. They are equal partners in their pursuit of justice.
Williams draws a vivid picture of Victorian London, from middle class workers to violent criminals. The story builds on details from the preceding novels and builds to a dramatic climax
A new murder has tentative links to a cold case. Is it possible that Inspector Henry Field might be able to solve the murder of Matthew Greystone, whose widow he is increasingly having feelings for? Unfortunately clues are not easy to find, then Henry’s main suspect is also murdered - can a woman sentenced to death and an unsolved current case, throw any light on the matter? In this book we again see Matilda Greystone involved in solving murders alongside Henry Field and in mortal peril with unsavory characters. A good story but with an unsettling ending.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Really enjoyed the mystery in this book. A few murders, and possible links to the death of Amelia's husband over a year ago. The writing flowed extremely well, with enough suspense to keep you reading. The ongoing possible romance is very slow which is a little annoying, wish they would make a decision and get on with it. It is nice to hear about characters from the past 2 books and The Sargent Fletcher is becoming quite a favourite in my opinion, hopefully there will be more of him.
Overall a really good read, and looking forward to the next instalment.
I received an advance review copy and I'm leaving a voluntary and honest review.
I love Amelia and Henry as characters and this book did not disappoint! We continue following Amelia as she tries to unravel he husband's murder and we learn that this murder was just the tip of the iceberg. The whole mystery surrounding this story is well-crafted and kept me intensely interested, and of course it is also nice to see our two lead characters developing romantic feelings for each other. The book ends on a satisfying ending but also plants the seeds for the next book to come in the series that I look forward to reading in a few months.
This is another well written and well thought out book. The story moves along at a good pace and the mystery was intriguing. I love the attention to historical detail and the language used by the author is fitting to the time. The lead characters continue to grow as does their connection, but at a steady pace. One of the things I really like about this book was the relatability of some of the characters. The worn, brown jumper and talking to the cat made me laugh and really settle in for what is an enjoyable read.
I’m loving this series and the main characters of Amelia Greystone and Henry Field. Amelia is such a strong and brave woman who also likes to perform science experiments in her laboratory at home. Henry, an inspector at Scotland Yard, is a very capable officer but has his own self doubts. This latest case may have some connection to the murder of Amelia’s husband. Of course, Amelia must do what she can to help with the investigation. They are beginning to have feelings for each other but haven’t acted upon it yet! There are some dangerous events and some solutions. I like the way that Henry tries to protect Amelia. I’m looking forward for the next book.
This is the third book in the series and they are all excellent! The characters are well developed and the story draws you right in. There is enough mystery and intrigue that keeps you up all night till finished! I love the writing of Ms Williams and looking forward to the next book in the series. I’m hoping the next book will bring Henry and Amelia together. Start the series you will not be disappointed!!
Another excellent entry in the series. I am excited to see where the next book takes us. The growing but still ever so slightly will they or won’t they relationship between Henry and Amelia is charming, as are Henry’s efforts to build true friendships, Amelia’s blossoming new world and all the supporting characters from Fernsby, to Fletcher, to Amelia’s aunt. The mystery holds you and the characters enchant you.
Starting this book was like reconnecting with old beloved friends. Amelia and Henry, Fernsby and Fletcher did not disappoint. Multiple stories from earlier books intersected into one. Loved the pace and twists. 5 stars for the story and for being clean and without gratuitous anything. That’s the evidence of a good writer. Can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Book three if this new series is spectacular! Amelia and Henry Field work together as Henry tries to solve the cold case murder of Amelia's husband. As sparks begin to smolder between the two, the mystery expands and seems to grown in size and scope with hints of betrayal seemingly around every corner. A fascinating, action packed new series that will keep you hanging on the edge of your chair! Eagerly awaiting the next installment! ❤