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Sebastian St. Cyr #10
Who Buries the Dead
The grisly murder of a West Indies slave owner and the reappearance of a dangerous enemy from Sebastian St. Cyr’s past combine to put C. S. Harris’s “troubled but compelling antihero” (Booklist) to the ultimate test in this taut, thrilling mystery.
London, 1813. The vicious decapitation of Stanley Preston, a wealthy, socially ambitious plantation owner, at Bloody Bridge draws Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin, into a macabre and increasingly perilous investigation. The discovery near the body of an aged lead coffin strap bearing the inscription “King Charles, 1648” suggests a link between this killing and the beheading of the deposed seventeenth-century Stuart monarch. Equally troubling, the victim’s kinship to the current Home Secretary draws the notice of Sebastian’s powerful father-in-law, Lord Jarvis, who will exploit any means to pursue his own clandestine ends.
Working in concert with his fiercely independent wife, Hero, Sebastian finds his inquiries taking him from the wretched back alleys of Fish Street Hill to the glittering ballrooms of Mayfair as he amasses a list of suspects who range from an eccentric Chelsea curiosity collector to the brother of an unassuming but brilliantly observant spinster named Jane Austen.
But as one brutal murder follows another, it is the connection between the victims and ruthless former army officer Sinclair, Lord Oliphant, that dramatically raises the stakes. Once, Oliphant nearly destroyed Sebastian in a horrific wartime act of carnage and betrayal. Now the vindictive former colonel might well pose a threat not only to Sebastian but to everything—and everyone—Sebastian holds most dear.
London, 1813. The vicious decapitation of Stanley Preston, a wealthy, socially ambitious plantation owner, at Bloody Bridge draws Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin, into a macabre and increasingly perilous investigation. The discovery near the body of an aged lead coffin strap bearing the inscription “King Charles, 1648” suggests a link between this killing and the beheading of the deposed seventeenth-century Stuart monarch. Equally troubling, the victim’s kinship to the current Home Secretary draws the notice of Sebastian’s powerful father-in-law, Lord Jarvis, who will exploit any means to pursue his own clandestine ends.
Working in concert with his fiercely independent wife, Hero, Sebastian finds his inquiries taking him from the wretched back alleys of Fish Street Hill to the glittering ballrooms of Mayfair as he amasses a list of suspects who range from an eccentric Chelsea curiosity collector to the brother of an unassuming but brilliantly observant spinster named Jane Austen.
But as one brutal murder follows another, it is the connection between the victims and ruthless former army officer Sinclair, Lord Oliphant, that dramatically raises the stakes. Once, Oliphant nearly destroyed Sebastian in a horrific wartime act of carnage and betrayal. Now the vindictive former colonel might well pose a threat not only to Sebastian but to everything—and everyone—Sebastian holds most dear.
338 pages, Hardcover
Published March 3, 2015
About the author
C.S. Harris
23 books3,015 followersCandice Proctor, aka C.S. Harris and C.S. Graham, is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than a dozen novels including the Sebastian St. Cyr Regency mystery series written under the name C.S. Harris, the new C.S. Graham thriller series co-written with Steven Harris, and seven historical romances. She is also the author of a nonfiction historical study of the French Revolution. Her books are available worldwide and have been translated into over twenty different languages.
Candice graduated Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude with a degree in Classics before going on to earn an MA and Ph.D. in history. A former academic, she has taught at the University of Idaho and Midwestern State University in Texas. She also worked as an archaeologist on a variety of sites including a Hudson's Bay Company Fort in San Juan Island, a Cherokee village in Tennessee, a prehistoric kill site in Victoria, Australia, and a Roman cemetery and medieval manor house in Winchester, England. Most recently, she spent many years as a partner in an international business consulting firm.
The daughter of a career Air Force officer and university professor, Proctor loves to travel and has spent much of her life abroad. She has lived in Spain, Greece, England, France, Jordan, and Australia. She now makes her home in New Orleans, Louisiana, with her husband, retired Army officer Steve Harris, her two daughters, and an ever-expanding number of cats.
Candice graduated Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude with a degree in Classics before going on to earn an MA and Ph.D. in history. A former academic, she has taught at the University of Idaho and Midwestern State University in Texas. She also worked as an archaeologist on a variety of sites including a Hudson's Bay Company Fort in San Juan Island, a Cherokee village in Tennessee, a prehistoric kill site in Victoria, Australia, and a Roman cemetery and medieval manor house in Winchester, England. Most recently, she spent many years as a partner in an international business consulting firm.
The daughter of a career Air Force officer and university professor, Proctor loves to travel and has spent much of her life abroad. She has lived in Spain, Greece, England, France, Jordan, and Australia. She now makes her home in New Orleans, Louisiana, with her husband, retired Army officer Steve Harris, her two daughters, and an ever-expanding number of cats.
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September 17, 2023
5★
“But only a few darkened wisps of hair now clung to the stained, waxy shroud. The torso ended abruptly at the neck. ‘Merciful heavens,’ said the Dean, one hand cupped over his nose and mouth. ‘Someone's stolen the King's head.’”
Who buries the dead, indeed? Or rather, who buries part of the dead or digs them up after? I know about the resurrection men, the grave robbers who sell corpses to doctors or to those who want to study anatomy, but I didn’t realise how incomplete some of the royal bodies may be.
When the body of a wealthy plantation owner is discovered with his head cut off, Sebastian St Cyr (Lord Devlin) is called upon to help with the investigations. Bow Street police don’t have the same access to the social circles that Devlin moves in, making him an invaluable asset.
He is also talented at masquerading as a ragged drunk, moving through the taverns, following a lead, and enjoys the adventure. But now he has a wife and brand-new baby son to worry about.
This is Regency London, with the overstuffed Prince of Wales as the nominal ruler, while behind the scenes is the clever, ruthless Lord Jarvis pulling the strings. Jarvis’s only weak spot, if you can call it that, is his daughter, Hero, a strong-willed, fiercely independent young woman whom he has always said should have been born a boy.
She is committed to learning and writing about the poor unfortunates who live in the filthy slums and with little food or comfort. Here, she’s interviewing the costermongers, costers, who sell vegetables at the markets from carts – a cut above those who sell trinkets from trays. There’s a hierarchy everywhere, of course.
One nine-year-old girl has already been selling nuts for her mother for three years, after her father died.
“Sarah tipped her head to one side. ‘You really gonna write about us costers in the newspapers?’
‘Yes.’
She looked thoughtful. ‘I don't mind going out in the street to sell, you know. It's better'n staying inside without a fire and with nothing to do.’
Which was, Hero decided as she walked back to her carriage with the two footmen Devlin had insisted she bring with her, a consolation of sorts.
But only if she didn't think too much about it.”
She and Devlin had always been at odds, Devlin being her father’s arch-enemy. Circumstances threw them together when their lives were both threatened, and now they are a family – Hero and baby Simon between the two men she loves. Except for her, each man would gladly kill the other. To protect her, either man would destroy anyone.
Devlin had hoped she would keep herself safer, now that she’s a mother.
“He wanted to say, Why don't you stop doing this to yourself? Why torment yourself with the ugly realities of a part of London life of which most gentlewomen remain blissfully ignorant? But he knew that was precisely what she wanted to change – she wanted the spoiled, complacent, self-satisfied residents of the West End to know what life was like for those less fortunate. In her own way, she was as driven as he.”
He certainly is driven. The atrocities he saw, and was unwittingly a part of, in the war, continue to haunt him. The man who instigated them is in London again and is a top suspect in this and other murder cases. Devlin cannot bear that men like him are at large, threatening the safety of his family.
The murders continue, coffins are examined, and Devlin is caught in the thick of it, suffering a hole through his hat and an extremely near miss that took another person instead, someone. The mystery and characters are as colourful as ever, and macabre - people who collect heads to put in showcases, for example.
Harris gives a good feel for the London of the times, when people like Devlin and Hero have staff who take care of the household, tend the horses and help with the baby, although Hero is a nursing mother, much to the irritation of her father, who insists they should have the customary wetnurse.
They can come and go as they please, mixing with everyone from street urchins to royalty to author Jane Austen and her family this time. Austen fans will enjoy the many references to Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility, which is fun for Austen fans. Hero names her cat Mr. Darcy.“It precisely captures your charming blend of arrogance and aloofness—and your impressive handsomeness, of course.”
This is still a favourite series with so many possible suspects among the high and the low, the rich and the poor, that every time Devlin explains a theory, I think – yes, that’s it! That’s the culprit. Then when that idea is scotched, the next theory sounds good, and we’re off again. Love it!
My reviews of the previous books:
1. What Angels Fear
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
2. When Gods Die
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
3. Why Mermaids Sing
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
4. Where Serpents Sleep
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
5. What Remains of Heaven
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
6. Where Shadows Dance
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
7. When Maidens Mourn
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
8. What Darkness Brings
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
9. Why Kings Confess
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
“But only a few darkened wisps of hair now clung to the stained, waxy shroud. The torso ended abruptly at the neck. ‘Merciful heavens,’ said the Dean, one hand cupped over his nose and mouth. ‘Someone's stolen the King's head.’”
Who buries the dead, indeed? Or rather, who buries part of the dead or digs them up after? I know about the resurrection men, the grave robbers who sell corpses to doctors or to those who want to study anatomy, but I didn’t realise how incomplete some of the royal bodies may be.
When the body of a wealthy plantation owner is discovered with his head cut off, Sebastian St Cyr (Lord Devlin) is called upon to help with the investigations. Bow Street police don’t have the same access to the social circles that Devlin moves in, making him an invaluable asset.
He is also talented at masquerading as a ragged drunk, moving through the taverns, following a lead, and enjoys the adventure. But now he has a wife and brand-new baby son to worry about.
This is Regency London, with the overstuffed Prince of Wales as the nominal ruler, while behind the scenes is the clever, ruthless Lord Jarvis pulling the strings. Jarvis’s only weak spot, if you can call it that, is his daughter, Hero, a strong-willed, fiercely independent young woman whom he has always said should have been born a boy.
She is committed to learning and writing about the poor unfortunates who live in the filthy slums and with little food or comfort. Here, she’s interviewing the costermongers, costers, who sell vegetables at the markets from carts – a cut above those who sell trinkets from trays. There’s a hierarchy everywhere, of course.
One nine-year-old girl has already been selling nuts for her mother for three years, after her father died.
“Sarah tipped her head to one side. ‘You really gonna write about us costers in the newspapers?’
‘Yes.’
She looked thoughtful. ‘I don't mind going out in the street to sell, you know. It's better'n staying inside without a fire and with nothing to do.’
Which was, Hero decided as she walked back to her carriage with the two footmen Devlin had insisted she bring with her, a consolation of sorts.
But only if she didn't think too much about it.”
She and Devlin had always been at odds, Devlin being her father’s arch-enemy. Circumstances threw them together when their lives were both threatened, and now they are a family – Hero and baby Simon between the two men she loves. Except for her, each man would gladly kill the other. To protect her, either man would destroy anyone.
Devlin had hoped she would keep herself safer, now that she’s a mother.
“He wanted to say, Why don't you stop doing this to yourself? Why torment yourself with the ugly realities of a part of London life of which most gentlewomen remain blissfully ignorant? But he knew that was precisely what she wanted to change – she wanted the spoiled, complacent, self-satisfied residents of the West End to know what life was like for those less fortunate. In her own way, she was as driven as he.”
He certainly is driven. The atrocities he saw, and was unwittingly a part of, in the war, continue to haunt him. The man who instigated them is in London again and is a top suspect in this and other murder cases. Devlin cannot bear that men like him are at large, threatening the safety of his family.
The murders continue, coffins are examined, and Devlin is caught in the thick of it, suffering a hole through his hat and an extremely near miss that took another person instead, someone. The mystery and characters are as colourful as ever, and macabre - people who collect heads to put in showcases, for example.
Harris gives a good feel for the London of the times, when people like Devlin and Hero have staff who take care of the household, tend the horses and help with the baby, although Hero is a nursing mother, much to the irritation of her father, who insists they should have the customary wetnurse.
They can come and go as they please, mixing with everyone from street urchins to royalty to author Jane Austen and her family this time. Austen fans will enjoy the many references to Pride and Prejudice and Sense and Sensibility, which is fun for Austen fans. Hero names her cat Mr. Darcy.“It precisely captures your charming blend of arrogance and aloofness—and your impressive handsomeness, of course.”
This is still a favourite series with so many possible suspects among the high and the low, the rich and the poor, that every time Devlin explains a theory, I think – yes, that’s it! That’s the culprit. Then when that idea is scotched, the next theory sounds good, and we’re off again. Love it!
My reviews of the previous books:
1. What Angels Fear
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
2. When Gods Die
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
3. Why Mermaids Sing
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
4. Where Serpents Sleep
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
5. What Remains of Heaven
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
6. Where Shadows Dance
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
7. When Maidens Mourn
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
8. What Darkness Brings
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
9. Why Kings Confess
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
January 2, 2017
I have been so behind in my reviews, I really hate when that happens. I am really moving on in this series and found out something new when I started this series, and that is that I like the historical mystery genre. I felt like I time traveled to the Regency period and I loved the knowledge that I received, I have learned so much about this period. I felt like I was there. The mysteries are all so good and I feel that I got to know the characters so well.
This is the tenth book in the Sebastian St. Cyr Series. This review is so hard for me, since I have a lot of GR friends that are reading this series, and I almost put a big spoiler not even realizing it since there are new characters. In this case, Stanley Preston has been found not only murdered, but with his severed head up on a pike on an isolated bridge where his body was found. Sir Henry Lovejoy has called on Devlin for his help. Preston was a collector of severed heads.
The case was hard to solve since lots of people were enemies of Preston at the time, including Henry Austen, a banker who was the real life brother of Jane Austen, both of whom also play a part in the story. The author consulted Jane Austen’s letters and biographies for her portrayal of the Austen family, and also adds humorous references in her book to some of Austen’s characters. (For example, Hero names their cat Mr. Darcy.) At this time, Jane Austen’s books were published anonymously. Sense and Sensibility first appeared in 1811 under the pseudonym "A Lady”, and Pride and Prejudice was published early in 1812. Austen’s authorship of the books did not remain a secret for long, and in this book, Devlin is one of those who discovers it early on, in the course of his investigation.
Devlin keeps getting shot at however, and he isn’t sure how it is related to the death of Preston, and the others who turn up dead.
Hero has been putting herself in the way of danger as well; she is working on a series of articles about London’s working poor. Moreover, Those who threaten Devlin seem to be targeting his wife and child as well. Naturally Hero’s ruthless father-in-law, the powerful Lord Jarvis, promises to kill Devlin if any harm should happen to Hero or Simon.
Devlin does end up losing someone with whom he feels very close too and this tragedy just might affect him in the next book.
" This riveting historical tale of tragedy and triumph with its sly nods to Jane Austen and her characters will enthrall you."
-Author Sabrina Jeffries
Every book I finish in this series, I cannot wait to read the next book.
October 10, 2016
Another enthralling episode in this excellent series. Again the author combines real historical facts with clever and imaginative fiction and comes up with a great story.
I love the interactions between Sebastian and Hero now that they have an understanding, and little Simon introduces a whole new outlook on the family.
I was a little shocked by one of the deaths but am still looking forward to Sebastian's family researches in the next book.
I love the interactions between Sebastian and Hero now that they have an understanding, and little Simon introduces a whole new outlook on the family.
I was a little shocked by one of the deaths but am still looking forward to Sebastian's family researches in the next book.
November 20, 2017
There's nothing cosy about this historical mystery series set in Regency London. Bloody and brutal murders abound, often stemming from the events and politics of the day. In the opening of this episode two lovers on their way to a night time tryst in a local barn stumble across a recently severed head on a bridge known as the Bloody Bridge. The head is that of Sir Stanley Preston, a West Indies plantation and slave owner, himself a collector of unusual artifacts and curios, including severed heads.
Sebastian St Cyr, Lord Devlin is called in by Bow St Magistrate Sir Henry Lovejoy to see if he can shed some light on the case. He is puzzled to find a metal strap with "King Charles 1648" inscribed on it near the body. In investigating this case, Devlin puts not only his life but those of his family at risk and realises how much his family has come to mean to him. He also meets Jane Austen, visiting her brother Henry and there are some engaging interchanges between them. No further revelations about Sebastian's origins in this book, but some hints that there will be in the next one.
Sebastian St Cyr, Lord Devlin is called in by Bow St Magistrate Sir Henry Lovejoy to see if he can shed some light on the case. He is puzzled to find a metal strap with "King Charles 1648" inscribed on it near the body. In investigating this case, Devlin puts not only his life but those of his family at risk and realises how much his family has come to mean to him. He also meets Jane Austen, visiting her brother Henry and there are some engaging interchanges between them. No further revelations about Sebastian's origins in this book, but some hints that there will be in the next one.
October 18, 2016
Sebastian St. Cyr is drawn to a case where the victim, Stanley Preston, was beheaded after being stabbed. Preston was the cousin of the Home Secretary so it is a high profile murder with a host of equally high profile suspects, including Simon Oliphant. Needless to say, it puts Sebastian and his family in the killer's crosshairs.
This was one of the more intriguing stories in the series. I especially liked how historical figures such as Jane Austen and Henry Addington were skillfully incorporated into the plot. The author created an environment that could be construed to have impacted Austen's stories. And, England's macabre history of beheadings was center stage.
It was also lovely to see Sebastian and Hero's relationship continue to deepen. Even her research of the world of costermongers (had never heard of them before) created a perfect backdrop for much of the story, described so vividly I could easily picture their existence and the contrast to the gentry.
I loved everything about this story, including its moral conflicts and historical relevance. There were many surprises and the level of danger was more palpable than the others. I'm saddened, though, that I'll be caught up after the next book. I've looked forward to my monthly Sebastian fix.
This was one of the more intriguing stories in the series. I especially liked how historical figures such as Jane Austen and Henry Addington were skillfully incorporated into the plot. The author created an environment that could be construed to have impacted Austen's stories. And, England's macabre history of beheadings was center stage.
It was also lovely to see Sebastian and Hero's relationship continue to deepen. Even her research of the world of costermongers (had never heard of them before) created a perfect backdrop for much of the story, described so vividly I could easily picture their existence and the contrast to the gentry.
I loved everything about this story, including its moral conflicts and historical relevance. There were many surprises and the level of danger was more palpable than the others. I'm saddened, though, that I'll be caught up after the next book. I've looked forward to my monthly Sebastian fix.
November 26, 2018
Another interesting mystery, this time involving Prinny and the theft of King Charles' head!
There's a lot of "heads" rolling around here, but there's also a mystery of a long ago happenings on a Jamaica plantation to be solved!
I love (yes, I know that I keep repeating it!) how Ms. Harris manages to incorporate in her stories the real historical people! And here we have... Jane Austen!!!!
I also love how the relationship between Hero and Sebastian keeps growing and deepening! We see that their love is enriched with their love for their child, Simon! I appeciated that both of them didn't want the wet nurse, but keep Simon with them and not give him in case of other people.
On to the next!
There's a lot of "heads" rolling around here, but there's also a mystery of a long ago happenings on a Jamaica plantation to be solved!
I love (yes, I know that I keep repeating it!) how Ms. Harris manages to incorporate in her stories the real historical people! And here we have... Jane Austen!!!!
I also love how the relationship between Hero and Sebastian keeps growing and deepening! We see that their love is enriched with their love for their child, Simon! I appeciated that both of them didn't want the wet nurse, but keep Simon with them and not give him in case of other people.
On to the next!
January 11, 2019
Bumping this up to five stars on reread. Harris just does too good a job at crafting her mysteries and recreating regency London on the page. And Sebastian's growth from reckless, angry man to that of one who knows deep love and who doesn't want to lose it is a fine thing to see. Toss in some violent murders, a few mouldering old heads, a spinster lady author and the stage is set for another fine addition to the series.
December 10, 2019
Only one half of this particular mystery was interesting, and it had to do with the presence of a certain author and all the similarities, and not-similarities, present in and around her when compared to her books (how's that for vague). I was living for the parallels and, I mean, just her presence in general.
Otherwise the only other big draw was a certain tragic event that has honestly shocked me. I wouldn't say I'm devastated or upset, just.. surprised.
I probably have myself to blame because this binge is ridiculous but I am getting a bit tired of the same phrasings and descriptions used time after time after time. Also if, like, Seb and Jarvis can go one book without threatening to kill each other? Might make a nice change. It'll never happen but hey. A girl can dream.
This is 3.5ish story but the fact that they finally named the cat Mr. Darcy.. that alone is worth rounding up.
Otherwise the only other big draw was a certain tragic event that has honestly shocked me. I wouldn't say I'm devastated or upset, just.. surprised.
I probably have myself to blame because this binge is ridiculous but I am getting a bit tired of the same phrasings and descriptions used time after time after time. Also if, like, Seb and Jarvis can go one book without threatening to kill each other? Might make a nice change. It'll never happen but hey. A girl can dream.
This is 3.5ish story but the fact that they finally named the cat Mr. Darcy.. that alone is worth rounding up.
June 22, 2025
June Group Read on Library Thing
The grisly murder of a West Indies slave owner and the reappearance of a dangerous enemy from Sebastian St. Cyr’s past puts C. S. Harris’s “troubled but compelling "anti-hero” to the ultimate test.
Set in 1813, Lord Devlin, or as he is also known, Sebastian St. Cyr, is investigating a vicious crime, the murder and decapitation of a wealthy, socially ambitious man who owns a plantation in Jamaica and collects some really strange things.... among them, severed heads, and there are lot of those, both old and new, in this story. Now his own head has joined someone's private collection. A coffin strap with the inscription “King Charles, 1648” has been left at the crime scene but what does the message mean...and where did the murderer get the coffin strap to start with?
As the body...or rather "head-count" rises, Devlin and his wife, Hero, find themselves drawn into a powder keg of intrigue, involving everyone from the Home Secretary to Jane Austen...yes, THAT Jane Austen.... to Devlin’s greatest enemy, responsible for almost destroying Devlin during the war. Now the stakes are higher than they were before: Devlin and Hero now have baby son, Simon, that they need to protect.
This author is one of the best historical mystery writers I have ever read. She captures the reader’s interest and imagination from the very first page. Devlin is a magnificent character, moving through 19th century London from its glamorous Mayfair balls to its seedy Fish Street, fearlessly and with determination. Devlin is going to find the killer, but will he survive to tell the tale.
This was a very enjoyable read and this is also a series, but the books can all be read out of order.
The grisly murder of a West Indies slave owner and the reappearance of a dangerous enemy from Sebastian St. Cyr’s past puts C. S. Harris’s “troubled but compelling "anti-hero” to the ultimate test.
Set in 1813, Lord Devlin, or as he is also known, Sebastian St. Cyr, is investigating a vicious crime, the murder and decapitation of a wealthy, socially ambitious man who owns a plantation in Jamaica and collects some really strange things.... among them, severed heads, and there are lot of those, both old and new, in this story. Now his own head has joined someone's private collection. A coffin strap with the inscription “King Charles, 1648” has been left at the crime scene but what does the message mean...and where did the murderer get the coffin strap to start with?
As the body...or rather "head-count" rises, Devlin and his wife, Hero, find themselves drawn into a powder keg of intrigue, involving everyone from the Home Secretary to Jane Austen...yes, THAT Jane Austen.... to Devlin’s greatest enemy, responsible for almost destroying Devlin during the war. Now the stakes are higher than they were before: Devlin and Hero now have baby son, Simon, that they need to protect.
This author is one of the best historical mystery writers I have ever read. She captures the reader’s interest and imagination from the very first page. Devlin is a magnificent character, moving through 19th century London from its glamorous Mayfair balls to its seedy Fish Street, fearlessly and with determination. Devlin is going to find the killer, but will he survive to tell the tale.
This was a very enjoyable read and this is also a series, but the books can all be read out of order.
February 11, 2020
Audio: 5 STARS!
Story: 5+ STARS!
How are these books getting better?
And that twist . . . it really shook me up. SUCH. GOOD. STUFF.
On to the next!
Story: 5+ STARS!
How are these books getting better?
And that twist . . . it really shook me up. SUCH. GOOD. STUFF.
On to the next!
December 30, 2019
Why are you even reading my review? I think this is the 10th book in the series. 10th! And I’ve read them all these last few months. I’m like Someone who is on book 96 of that JD Robb series. I don’t ask them how they feel about book 96. They’ve long-since abandoned any sense of objectivity. As have I.
I can’t compare this book to book 3. Or book 7. Or some random stand alone ARC I read. Book 3 or book 7 Camille - she was different. She had a different life view. Hadn’t spent so much time with sebastian. Was less attached. Shoot, now I’ve probably spent more time with Sebastian this year than I have my own mother.
So. As I asked. Why are you reading my review? I’m neck deep in an obsession that will only end with the series. For all intents and purposes, after book 2 my reviews became meaningless. I’m off to Decide on the requisite “light read” as I count down to the new year and the McFarlane ARC calling my name. (Ps - the next Sebastian book sits on my nightstand beckoning me into its Dark clutches. You shouldn’t read that review once I write it either.)
I can’t compare this book to book 3. Or book 7. Or some random stand alone ARC I read. Book 3 or book 7 Camille - she was different. She had a different life view. Hadn’t spent so much time with sebastian. Was less attached. Shoot, now I’ve probably spent more time with Sebastian this year than I have my own mother.
So. As I asked. Why are you reading my review? I’m neck deep in an obsession that will only end with the series. For all intents and purposes, after book 2 my reviews became meaningless. I’m off to Decide on the requisite “light read” as I count down to the new year and the McFarlane ARC calling my name. (Ps - the next Sebastian book sits on my nightstand beckoning me into its Dark clutches. You shouldn’t read that review once I write it either.)
July 9, 2019
A lot of interesting material in this instalment: soldiers serving in Jamaica, the end of the slave trade , corruption, illegitimacy, Charles I head (!) and Jane Austen and her brother make an appearance too.
October 3, 2018
The 10th book in the Sebastian St. Cyr series features a retelling of the headless horseman legend, complete with a spooky bridge as the setting for murder, and a story filled with numerous beheaded victims. Pretty grotesque stuff and just perfect for the month of October :)
The book has two main mystery arcs, and I did question at times the plausible intersection of them. The first mystery involves decapitations in London and a macabre underground culture of collectors of human heads and historical instruments of torture. This plot allows Harris to introduce some truly reprobate characters, and their page time offers engrossing reading. The second mystery arc was less satisfying though. It involves decades-old mysteries that took place on slave plantations in Jamaica. Racial tensions in Great Britain remain high amid abolition debates in the colonies. Eventually, the two different tracks merge to create one somewhat cohesive mystery, but it felt a bit forced. There are also a number of times when key information is withheld so that Sebastian can announce the results at the end and that made me feel a little cheated as a mystery reader.
A major character suddenly and shockingly is murdered! I did not see that coming and am still wallowing in sadness today at the loss to future stories.
Meanwhile, Sebastian, Hero, and baby Simon are settling in for domestic happiness. There are a handful of lovely scenes of domestic life as the new parents deal with ordinary events, such as a colicky baby and the pros and cons of breastfeeding their child. Hero and Sebastian are tighter than ever here, and Sebastian opens up even more to Hero about his past life in the army. I enjoyed the honest conversations they had with each other about the dangers of their work and how they need to be a rock for each other in the life they have created.
February 1, 2023
This is a wonderful mystery that has you second guessing all the way through it. Blending to line between fiction and fact, Jane Austen's family makes an appearance. I was more than a little put off by the macabre collections some of the characters had.
Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin is called to the scene of a gristly murder. This time the victim, Stanley Preston is a wealthy, ambitious, social climbing collector. His collection is macabre, and He isn't alone in his hobby. There are at least two other collectors that would like to have the item Preston sought to acquire. Would they kill for it?
At Sebastian begins his investigation he finds an old nemesis is among his suspects. His former commanding officer, Sinclair, Lord Oliphant, and Sebastian hate each other. Sebastian would dearly love the hang this murder on Sinclair. Sinclair is the former governor of Jamica and Preston, as a plantation owner, may have been responsible for him losing that post.
Other suspects include the brother of spinster, and secret author, Jane Austen, and two suitors for the hand of Anne, Preston's daughter.
More bodies are found, and Sebastian gets shot at. There is also someone following Hero and any threat to her is going to get the attention of her father, Lord Jarvis, and that person had better beware. Sebastian and Lord Jarvis will do anything it takes to keep her safe.
Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin is called to the scene of a gristly murder. This time the victim, Stanley Preston is a wealthy, ambitious, social climbing collector. His collection is macabre, and He isn't alone in his hobby. There are at least two other collectors that would like to have the item Preston sought to acquire. Would they kill for it?
At Sebastian begins his investigation he finds an old nemesis is among his suspects. His former commanding officer, Sinclair, Lord Oliphant, and Sebastian hate each other. Sebastian would dearly love the hang this murder on Sinclair. Sinclair is the former governor of Jamica and Preston, as a plantation owner, may have been responsible for him losing that post.
Other suspects include the brother of spinster, and secret author, Jane Austen, and two suitors for the hand of Anne, Preston's daughter.
More bodies are found, and Sebastian gets shot at. There is also someone following Hero and any threat to her is going to get the attention of her father, Lord Jarvis, and that person had better beware. Sebastian and Lord Jarvis will do anything it takes to keep her safe.
May 13, 2015
This was an excellent addition to a series I really love. I enjoyed this book very much and was riveted....then, about 3/4 of the way through, Something Very Bad Happened. So, my rating dropped a bit. However, Jane Austen and her brother both played a role in this mystery, which added a fun element. As always, I am looking forward to the next one!
July 6, 2021
4.5 STARS
More fascinating history presented here, as Sebastian starts closing in on his demons. At least they gave him more than a few days between cases this time. Again if you decide to start this series, don't bypass the Author's notes at the end of each story. I love reading about the research and the real histories that these murders revolve around. And kudos for including some of Austen's characters as well. May as well see this series through. On to book 11.
Let the dead bury their dead. - Luke 9:60
More fascinating history presented here, as Sebastian starts closing in on his demons. At least they gave him more than a few days between cases this time. Again if you decide to start this series, don't bypass the Author's notes at the end of each story. I love reading about the research and the real histories that these murders revolve around. And kudos for including some of Austen's characters as well. May as well see this series through. On to book 11.
December 28, 2018
Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin, would like to formally announce the introduction of additional backstory angst. If you will please recall from earlier books: he was in war; betrayed by his commanding officer which led to the deaths of an entire orphanage / nunnery; sold out and started solving murders; reconnected with a man who looks An Awfully Lot Like Him and is now responsible for an actual human baby (and wife). All of this culminates in a murky, emotional stew that makes Sebastian seem kind of silly.
1. He ends up confessing a few more things to Hero and I'm officially at the point where I don't know what he hasn't told her yet? Like the ~revelation about his mother's necklace and faked disappearance was apparently something he hasn't told her about, but she knows about Jamie Knox and Sebastian's shady paternity—right? And then the drawn out "There's more I haven't told you" nonsense about what happened in St. Iria was just...unnecessary.
2. Not enough Hero. Her interviews were / are fantastic and I enjoy reading them immensely. (Although I do get a touch annoyed at how they are portrayed as ~~moving her...but no farther than an additional shilling or two, I guess? The repetition just ends up feeling like emotional manipulation rather than true character building. Because the Hero I know and respect would DO SOMETHING.)
I also would have appreciated more resolution? development? of that thread of...fear that's starting to define their relationship. Hero acknowledges it and says she won't let it define her, but then Sebastian does nothing of the same: in fact, he has a moment where he believes Hero to be shot and never thinks about it again. It's very Drama-for-Drama's sake.
(3. A lot of this book felt that way: done for the sake of page count or plot bits but not to develop characters or their relationship in any way. Sebastian can't be happy so he angsts about things in superficial ways; Hero is Tough as Shit so the things she feels are dealt with and never mentioned again; Simon is a baby and cries except when he doesn't; etc. I was just every so slightly disappointed.)
4.
5. Also not certain I like the ongoing Paul Gibson storyline. :\
6. NO COMMENT ON JANE AUSTEN.
1. He ends up confessing a few more things to Hero and I'm officially at the point where I don't know what he hasn't told her yet? Like the ~revelation about his mother's necklace and faked disappearance was apparently something he hasn't told her about, but she knows about Jamie Knox and Sebastian's shady paternity—right? And then the drawn out "There's more I haven't told you" nonsense about what happened in St. Iria was just...unnecessary.
2. Not enough Hero. Her interviews were / are fantastic and I enjoy reading them immensely. (Although I do get a touch annoyed at how they are portrayed as ~~moving her...but no farther than an additional shilling or two, I guess? The repetition just ends up feeling like emotional manipulation rather than true character building. Because the Hero I know and respect would DO SOMETHING.)
I also would have appreciated more resolution? development? of that thread of...fear that's starting to define their relationship. Hero acknowledges it and says she won't let it define her, but then Sebastian does nothing of the same: in fact, he has a moment where he believes Hero to be shot and never thinks about it again. It's very Drama-for-Drama's sake.
(3. A lot of this book felt that way: done for the sake of page count or plot bits but not to develop characters or their relationship in any way. Sebastian can't be happy so he angsts about things in superficial ways; Hero is Tough as Shit so the things she feels are dealt with and never mentioned again; Simon is a baby and cries except when he doesn't; etc. I was just every so slightly disappointed.)
4.
5. Also not certain I like the ongoing Paul Gibson storyline. :\
6. NO COMMENT ON JANE AUSTEN.
September 29, 2017
I want to thank the publisher for sending this book in return for an honest review, through the Goodreads Giveaway program. I enjoyed reading this book and found it hard to put down once I was halfway through. This book is a tale of historical fiction, which takes place from March 21-31, 1813, London, England. A wealthy plantation owner's body is found, with the severed head a short distance away. The local magistrate calls in Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin and Earl of Hendon.
Devlin has a talent for solving murders and does not charge the magistrate.
Devlin's old enemy, former army officer Lord Oliphant, is one of the suspects. Not until the end did I find out the identity of the murderer and it was a surprise. The plot moved along well and the characters were believable. This is book 10 in the series, and I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the previous books in the series, but it read ok as a semi stand alone. I plan to read more of this series. This book is a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
Update September 29, 2017: I passed this book on to family, one of whom liked it so much that he purchased kindle versions of books 1-9.
Devlin has a talent for solving murders and does not charge the magistrate.
Devlin's old enemy, former army officer Lord Oliphant, is one of the suspects. Not until the end did I find out the identity of the murderer and it was a surprise. The plot moved along well and the characters were believable. This is book 10 in the series, and I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the previous books in the series, but it read ok as a semi stand alone. I plan to read more of this series. This book is a solid 4 out of 5 stars.
Update September 29, 2017: I passed this book on to family, one of whom liked it so much that he purchased kindle versions of books 1-9.
July 30, 2019
4.5 stars. My lawyer husband tells me that, justice is about deterrence not revenge. For our pleasure, Lord Devlin achieves both and some redemption for himself. We are given good insight into his home life with Hero and their infant son. Its a marriage based on mutual respect, love, care and passion. They both recognize, the importance of their commitment to their causes and accept that loving eachother involves accepting the risks that comes with the work they do. I am miffed at killing-off of Knox. I believed him to be a significant character and thought him worthy of a plot (a whole book), where we were to finally learn about the connections between him and Sebastian.
I highly recommend this series for both historical romance and mystery readers. Its well written, entertaining and full of intrigueing charactes....some to love and some to hate.
I highly recommend this series for both historical romance and mystery readers. Its well written, entertaining and full of intrigueing charactes....some to love and some to hate.
April 25, 2024
Beautifully written as always. The theme examines how to detect the true character of a man. Jane Austen weighs in with her famous examples of charming men without character, as well as awkward men with great character. There are a lot of murders that appear to be related, but are they? One thing I enjoy about Harris is how gently subversive she is. She takes no prisoners in examining outrages of the past. There are always historical nuggets that have me running to Google. Davina Porter as narrator is superb.
September 29, 2024
4.2 stars
A very good instalment in the series. Again, a delicious mystery entwined with historical facts (though the real motive of the murders ended being very plebeian) along with more deepening of the personal story of the St. Cyrs. I was very pleasantly surprised to have Miss Jane Austen incorporated as a character.
I liked this one better than Why Kings Confess because although Sebastian still had to conduct multiple rounds of the suspects, somehow the more sedate pacing of the investigation helped in making the development of these enquiries seem logical and organic. It looks like the next book will bear a marked personal angle, which of course I am impatient to get to.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2015
I can't believe how long I waited before pouncing on this latest Sebastian St. Cyr mystery. I usually devour it the day it arrives in the mail. That being said, I still managed to be glued to it as soon as I started and finishing it quickly. Jane Austen, folks! I couldn't believe it. Sebastian and Jane Austen share a case!
This series all pose separate murder mysteries in each book, but there is an ongoing storyline following Sebastian's life both the mysteries of the past and the present with his capable and intelligent wife, his powerful and sometimes brutal father in law, and all his associates that help him solve murders. So what I'm saying is that it is definitely best to read them in order. Totally worth it! Sebastian, as a noble man detective from the Regency period is worth it.
Sebastian St. Cyr, Lord Devlin, is called out in the wee hours by his friend and magistrate of the Bow Street Runners to consult on a startling and grizzly murder. A prominent wealthy gentleman has been killed and his head removed near Bloody Bridge with a Charles I burial strap nearby.
Sebastian pursues inquiries into the dead man's life and known associates while his wife, Hero, continues her controversial research into the poor of London. Sebastian's detecting isn't popular with his family or Hero's anymore than her work for the poor is, but she supports him and he supports her because they understand each other.
Soon his work turns up disturbing connections that tie-in to his own past and to some powerful people including a government lord, a former colonial governor, and a banker. Sebastian goes from not having enough suspects to having a plethora of them and one of them thinks he is getting too close to the truth and turns the hunter into the prey.
As usual when I read this series, I appreciate all the work that goes into making them complex mysteries, but also stories with depth. Sebastian and the cast of characters surrounding him have depth. Sebastian has flaws and weaknesses to go along with his strengths and in the stories he forms attachments and has powerful enemies. His relationship with his extended family, his wife, his friends, and his acquaintances are all rolled into the story.
But not just the characters get that extra something, the author takes prestigious care over the backdrop and settings so that the overall historical period is painted with colorful detail, but also the particular subject of the mystery which was in this case the world of collectors, royal burials, the climate toward slavery, and conditions for the poor of that time.
Then there is the murder mystery which was devilishly tricky as they generally are for me. I couldn't determine who I thought was the killer or why. Jane Austen's brother, Henry Austen, was even a suspect and I loved that these real life figures were pulled in and had some good scene time.
Sebastian's cases are not just arm-chair cozies and get exciting and gritty. An enemy from his past keeps him on his toes and unleashes Sebastian's wrath when those he cares for come into the crosshairs of lethal danger. There is a real loss for Sebastian in this one and I confess to tearing up and reeling from the shock of it even after I closed the book.
I have to add that I have a fiendish glee whenever Sebastian, Hero, and her father, Lord Jarvis encounter one another. The sparks just fly and I love that there is an armed neutrality about their family dynamics.
All in all, it was superb and I am sad that I must wait yet again for the next installment. These are for historical mystery, historical fiction, and even historical romantic suspense lovers who want some authenticity, depth of character, grit and action to their story.
This series all pose separate murder mysteries in each book, but there is an ongoing storyline following Sebastian's life both the mysteries of the past and the present with his capable and intelligent wife, his powerful and sometimes brutal father in law, and all his associates that help him solve murders. So what I'm saying is that it is definitely best to read them in order. Totally worth it! Sebastian, as a noble man detective from the Regency period is worth it.
Sebastian St. Cyr, Lord Devlin, is called out in the wee hours by his friend and magistrate of the Bow Street Runners to consult on a startling and grizzly murder. A prominent wealthy gentleman has been killed and his head removed near Bloody Bridge with a Charles I burial strap nearby.
Sebastian pursues inquiries into the dead man's life and known associates while his wife, Hero, continues her controversial research into the poor of London. Sebastian's detecting isn't popular with his family or Hero's anymore than her work for the poor is, but she supports him and he supports her because they understand each other.
Soon his work turns up disturbing connections that tie-in to his own past and to some powerful people including a government lord, a former colonial governor, and a banker. Sebastian goes from not having enough suspects to having a plethora of them and one of them thinks he is getting too close to the truth and turns the hunter into the prey.
As usual when I read this series, I appreciate all the work that goes into making them complex mysteries, but also stories with depth. Sebastian and the cast of characters surrounding him have depth. Sebastian has flaws and weaknesses to go along with his strengths and in the stories he forms attachments and has powerful enemies. His relationship with his extended family, his wife, his friends, and his acquaintances are all rolled into the story.
But not just the characters get that extra something, the author takes prestigious care over the backdrop and settings so that the overall historical period is painted with colorful detail, but also the particular subject of the mystery which was in this case the world of collectors, royal burials, the climate toward slavery, and conditions for the poor of that time.
Then there is the murder mystery which was devilishly tricky as they generally are for me. I couldn't determine who I thought was the killer or why. Jane Austen's brother, Henry Austen, was even a suspect and I loved that these real life figures were pulled in and had some good scene time.
Sebastian's cases are not just arm-chair cozies and get exciting and gritty. An enemy from his past keeps him on his toes and unleashes Sebastian's wrath when those he cares for come into the crosshairs of lethal danger. There is a real loss for Sebastian in this one and I confess to tearing up and reeling from the shock of it even after I closed the book.
I have to add that I have a fiendish glee whenever Sebastian, Hero, and her father, Lord Jarvis encounter one another. The sparks just fly and I love that there is an armed neutrality about their family dynamics.
All in all, it was superb and I am sad that I must wait yet again for the next installment. These are for historical mystery, historical fiction, and even historical romantic suspense lovers who want some authenticity, depth of character, grit and action to their story.
January 5, 2015
First Sentence: They called it Bloody Bridge.
It’s called Bloody Bridge because of its past. However, that past has come forward into the present for Sebastian St. Cyr, when a wealthy, prominent plantation owner is found there decapitated. Near the body is an old coffin strap bearing the name of Charles Stuart, the 17th century king who was beheaded. St. Cyr’s father in law has promised the Prince Regent that he may be the first official witness to the newly uncovered tomb of Henry VIII, Jane Seymour and the casket of Charles I. One problem; someone broken into the Charles coffin and stole his head. With the help of his wife, Hero; author Jane Austen, and her brother, St. Cyr must make thing right before the King realizes something is wrong.
Harris really knows how to write a compelling first chapter. This one is particularly good. Better, still, she starts off strong and just keeps going.
There are very good introductions to the various characters and excellent descriptions which create a strong sense of time and place. She has a wonderful diversity of characters, from those in positions of power and wealth, all the way to the poor and to those who work with the dead. In each case, Harris gives us a good sense of who they are and who they each relate to the story and to one another.
Harris has a great voice. She creates wonderful analogies, “It often seemed to Sebastian that trying to solve a murder was sometimes akin to approaching a figure in the mist.” Her dialogue, occasionally imbued with a touch of humor, “Someone cut off his head.” “Good heavens. How terribly gauche.” “Frightfully so….” is a pleasure to read.
The story contains fascinating historical references such as those related to England’s slave trade and their attitude toward it. Such elements add veracity to the story. Through Hero, Sebastian’s wife, we gain a picture of the period and the live of those just struggling to get by and do for themselves. “But she knew now that she had never appreciated just how thin the line between survival and starvation was for a vast segment of London’s population.” The information on the costermongers and the mentality of collectors, as well as that about the deaths of past kings, is informative and educational, yet seamlessly woven into the fabric of the story.
The characters of Sebastian and Hero are rather romanticized and larger-than-life, but the other characters, including Jane Austin and her brother used in a very appropriate manner, balance them out nicely and you’re left truly with a mystery, rather than a romance.
“Who Buries the Dead” is a very good read; with suspense, history, and a touch of romance. It is a wonderful book in a wonderful series.
WHO BURIES THE DEAD (Hist. Mys-Sebastian St. Cyr-London, 1813) – VG
Harris, C.S. – 10th in series
Obsidian, 2014
It’s called Bloody Bridge because of its past. However, that past has come forward into the present for Sebastian St. Cyr, when a wealthy, prominent plantation owner is found there decapitated. Near the body is an old coffin strap bearing the name of Charles Stuart, the 17th century king who was beheaded. St. Cyr’s father in law has promised the Prince Regent that he may be the first official witness to the newly uncovered tomb of Henry VIII, Jane Seymour and the casket of Charles I. One problem; someone broken into the Charles coffin and stole his head. With the help of his wife, Hero; author Jane Austen, and her brother, St. Cyr must make thing right before the King realizes something is wrong.
Harris really knows how to write a compelling first chapter. This one is particularly good. Better, still, she starts off strong and just keeps going.
There are very good introductions to the various characters and excellent descriptions which create a strong sense of time and place. She has a wonderful diversity of characters, from those in positions of power and wealth, all the way to the poor and to those who work with the dead. In each case, Harris gives us a good sense of who they are and who they each relate to the story and to one another.
Harris has a great voice. She creates wonderful analogies, “It often seemed to Sebastian that trying to solve a murder was sometimes akin to approaching a figure in the mist.” Her dialogue, occasionally imbued with a touch of humor, “Someone cut off his head.” “Good heavens. How terribly gauche.” “Frightfully so….” is a pleasure to read.
The story contains fascinating historical references such as those related to England’s slave trade and their attitude toward it. Such elements add veracity to the story. Through Hero, Sebastian’s wife, we gain a picture of the period and the live of those just struggling to get by and do for themselves. “But she knew now that she had never appreciated just how thin the line between survival and starvation was for a vast segment of London’s population.” The information on the costermongers and the mentality of collectors, as well as that about the deaths of past kings, is informative and educational, yet seamlessly woven into the fabric of the story.
The characters of Sebastian and Hero are rather romanticized and larger-than-life, but the other characters, including Jane Austin and her brother used in a very appropriate manner, balance them out nicely and you’re left truly with a mystery, rather than a romance.
“Who Buries the Dead” is a very good read; with suspense, history, and a touch of romance. It is a wonderful book in a wonderful series.
WHO BURIES THE DEAD (Hist. Mys-Sebastian St. Cyr-London, 1813) – VG
Harris, C.S. – 10th in series
Obsidian, 2014
July 12, 2016
With this book have I now read all the books published in the Sebastian St. Cyr series and this is the first one that I have not read in order since I waited for it to be published in paperback and manage to get an ARC of the book that comes after this one and read it some months before this book. I did not mind that terrible, love this series and, despite knowing some things before I read this book did I find the book just as excellent as the rest of the books in the series.
I can without a doubt, say that this is one of my favorite series. I love historical mysteries and each book in this series has interesting cases mixed with Sebastian's own search for his mother and true father. Now he is also a father, and his wife's father is his arch nemesis which of course makes family life a bit difficult. Then again, his sister already resents him for being a bastard and still standing in line for inheriting the family title. It's not easy for him, and he has a tendency to find trouble. And, this time, he must solve the case of a headless body.
The case is interesting and I enjoy that Harris has added Jane Austen and her brother to the story. It was hilarious sometimes with everyone around Sebastian's reading this new popular book with an unknown writer. And, the daughter of the murdered man was some years earlier persuaded to not marry a sea captain. Brilliant move from Harris side!
I think even those that haven't read the previous books will enjoy this book. However, I would definitely recommend a new reader to start from the beginning!
I can without a doubt, say that this is one of my favorite series. I love historical mysteries and each book in this series has interesting cases mixed with Sebastian's own search for his mother and true father. Now he is also a father, and his wife's father is his arch nemesis which of course makes family life a bit difficult. Then again, his sister already resents him for being a bastard and still standing in line for inheriting the family title. It's not easy for him, and he has a tendency to find trouble. And, this time, he must solve the case of a headless body.
The case is interesting and I enjoy that Harris has added Jane Austen and her brother to the story. It was hilarious sometimes with everyone around Sebastian's reading this new popular book with an unknown writer. And, the daughter of the murdered man was some years earlier persuaded to not marry a sea captain. Brilliant move from Harris side!
I think even those that haven't read the previous books will enjoy this book. However, I would definitely recommend a new reader to start from the beginning!
September 26, 2023
This is book 10 in the series and it was great!! Every book I'm always trying to figure out who the murderer is and I am always wrong . This is the first time I got it right!
March 2, 2021
I enjoyed having the main characters (Hero and Tom) back and I found the mystery to be interesting. The murders reasoning was a bit of a stretch but I still thoroughly enjoy the audio book. Davina Porters narration adds greatly to the story. There was one twist in the plot that I did not see coming and this is a plus so that the books in the series don't become too predictable.
March 24, 2021
Definitely a grisly group of murders. There were so many candidates for the crime I felt dizzy. Loved the inclusion of Jane Austen. Sebastian draws a curtain on some areas of his life and opens up others. I really am intrigued by the interplay between Hero’s father Jarvis and Sebastian. Dangerously droll.!
May 22, 2021
This book and this series was my glorious light in the darkest year of COVID in 2020. I didn't have adequate words to express how much I loved every single book in the entire series. The most distinctive and most captivating of all was the way almost all of the major murdered victims in each book owned my heart and haunted my dream. In this book I mourned the undeserving murder of Jamie Knox, who might or might not have been Sebastian St Cyr's half brother. Hoping the fact would be revealed soon. Maybe in the next book.
I loved the mesmerizing and inspiring appearance of Jane Austen herself, her books, and her family. Totally loved how many of her characters influenced and then misled Sebastian's murder investigation. I also got such a kick out of Hero's naming their long-haired black cat 'Mr Darcy.'
The way evil murderers, like Oliphant, to name just one, met their end, made my blood thirsty heart rejoice. In the real world, true evil can thrive, live long and prosper. Therefore, I needed them to pay for their crimes in every book I read and loved. No exception!
As a romance lover, the gripping mystery was enhanced tenfold by Sebastian and Hero's loving scenes. Maybe I'll find out one day why Hero chose to name their son Simon.
The historical background was superbly woven into the mystery and firmly held me captive. I cared and felt for the characters, like the costermongers interviewed by Hero. I was wishing so hard for them to make it. But I knew they wouldn't. I also know I'll be rereading the entire incomparable series all year.
Sharing one of the lighthearted scenes that I loved so much:
I loved the mesmerizing and inspiring appearance of Jane Austen herself, her books, and her family. Totally loved how many of her characters influenced and then misled Sebastian's murder investigation. I also got such a kick out of Hero's naming their long-haired black cat 'Mr Darcy.'
The way evil murderers, like Oliphant, to name just one, met their end, made my blood thirsty heart rejoice. In the real world, true evil can thrive, live long and prosper. Therefore, I needed them to pay for their crimes in every book I read and loved. No exception!
As a romance lover, the gripping mystery was enhanced tenfold by Sebastian and Hero's loving scenes. Maybe I'll find out one day why Hero chose to name their son Simon.
The historical background was superbly woven into the mystery and firmly held me captive. I cared and felt for the characters, like the costermongers interviewed by Hero. I was wishing so hard for them to make it. But I knew they wouldn't. I also know I'll be rereading the entire incomparable series all year.
Sharing one of the lighthearted scenes that I loved so much:
"Preston . . . was also furious with Jane."
"For what?"
"For 'encouraging Anne's romantic notions,' . . . You see, before Captain Wyeth reappeared in town, Anne was on the verge of accepting an offer from Sir Galen Knightly." . . .
"And your sister discouraged the match?"
"Oh, no—at least, not intentionally. It's just that Anne likes to read romance novels."
"And Miss Austen gave her novels?" . . .
"Well . . . yes."
Sebastian watched Austen's gaze slide away. The man obviously needed to take lessons in lying . . . 😜
March 10, 2017
Who Buries the Dead
4 Stars
When the decapitated corpse of a West Indies slave owner is discovered on an isolated bridge next to a relic from Charles I's coffin, Sebastian St. Cyr and his wife Hero are drawn into a macabre investigation with a host of suspects. These include a malicious curiosity dealer, an injured officer in His Majesty's army as well as Jane Austen's banker brother, and a vindictive foe from Sebastian's past.
An entertaining addition to the series and the inclusion of Jane Austen as a minor secondary character is an added bonus as the intertextual clues from her works have an interesting effect on the reader's perceptions of characters and motivations.
Although Sebastian's investigation is a garden-variety murder and the suspect pool is rather limited, there are still some gripping moments that keep one turning the pages. The identity of the villain is not easy to discern although there are sufficient clues to figure it all out.
As with all of Harris's books, the historical detail is fascinating and the stories behind the various relics and curiosities mentioned throughout the storyline are captivating.
In terms of Sebastian's personal life, he and Hero are growing ever closer and their marriage is becoming a true partnership in every sense. One inevitable effect of this, however, is an understanding of the perils of their work and the realization that they have so much more to lose now.
All in all, a well-crafted story with characters that become more and more engaging with every installment. Unfortunately, the next book is the most recent and it will be long wait until April 2017 for the follow-up.
4 Stars
When the decapitated corpse of a West Indies slave owner is discovered on an isolated bridge next to a relic from Charles I's coffin, Sebastian St. Cyr and his wife Hero are drawn into a macabre investigation with a host of suspects. These include a malicious curiosity dealer, an injured officer in His Majesty's army as well as Jane Austen's banker brother, and a vindictive foe from Sebastian's past.
An entertaining addition to the series and the inclusion of Jane Austen as a minor secondary character is an added bonus as the intertextual clues from her works have an interesting effect on the reader's perceptions of characters and motivations.
Although Sebastian's investigation is a garden-variety murder and the suspect pool is rather limited, there are still some gripping moments that keep one turning the pages. The identity of the villain is not easy to discern although there are sufficient clues to figure it all out.
As with all of Harris's books, the historical detail is fascinating and the stories behind the various relics and curiosities mentioned throughout the storyline are captivating.
In terms of Sebastian's personal life, he and Hero are growing ever closer and their marriage is becoming a true partnership in every sense. One inevitable effect of this, however, is an understanding of the perils of their work and the realization that they have so much more to lose now.
All in all, a well-crafted story with characters that become more and more engaging with every installment. Unfortunately, the next book is the most recent and it will be long wait until April 2017 for the follow-up.
February 15, 2023
Reread/listened to audiobook Feb'2023:
5 stars - Historical Mystery
Original rating/review Nov'2020:
5 stars - Historical Mystery
5 stars - Historical Mystery
Original rating/review Nov'2020:
5 stars - Historical Mystery
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