What do you think?
Rate this book
Charles Lenox Mysteries #8
The Laws of Murder
It's 1876, and Charles Lenox, once London's leading private investigator, has just given up his seat in Parliament after six years, primed to return to his first love, detection. With high hopes he and three colleagues start a new detective agency, the first of its kind. But as the months pass, and he is the only detective who cannot find work, Lenox begins to question whether he can still play the game as he once did.
Then comes a chance to redeem himself, though at a terrible price: a friend, a member of Scotland Yard, is shot near Regent's Park. As Lenox begins to parse the peculiar details of the death - an unlaced boot, a days-old wound, an untraceable luggage ticket - he realizes that the incident may lead him into grave personal danger, beyond which lies a terrible truth.
With all the humanity, glamor, and mystery that readers have come to love, the latest Lenox novel is a shining new confirmation of the enduring popularity of Charles Finch's Victorian series.
Then comes a chance to redeem himself, though at a terrible price: a friend, a member of Scotland Yard, is shot near Regent's Park. As Lenox begins to parse the peculiar details of the death - an unlaced boot, a days-old wound, an untraceable luggage ticket - he realizes that the incident may lead him into grave personal danger, beyond which lies a terrible truth.
With all the humanity, glamor, and mystery that readers have come to love, the latest Lenox novel is a shining new confirmation of the enduring popularity of Charles Finch's Victorian series.
290 pages, Paperback
First published November 11, 2014
304 people are currently reading
3304 people want to read
About the author
Charles Finch
37 books2,471 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads' database with this name. See this thread for more information.
My name is Charles Finch - welcome! I'm the author of the Charles Lenox series of historical mysteries, as well as a recent novel about expatriate life in Oxford, THE LAST ENCHANTMENTS. I also write book reviews for the New York Times, USA Today, and the Chicago Tribune and essays in many different places.
Like most people on this website, I'm a huge reader. My taste is all over the place, though I tend to really like literary and mystery fiction. Some of my favorite writers: George Orwell, Henry Green, Dick Francis, Anthony Trollope, David Lodge, PG Wodehouse, Bill Bryson, Roberto Bolano, Jonathan Franzen, Shirley Hazzard, Leo Tolstoy, AR Ammons, Philip Larkin, Edgar Bowers, Laurent Binet, Laurie Colwin, Jane Austen, Arthur Conan Doyle, Philip Roth, Henrik Ibsen, Geoff Dyer, the list could go forever...
A bit about myself: I was born in New York City, and since then I've lived all over the place, in America, England, France...at the moment I'm in Chicago, where I just recently moved. I spend most of my time here writing, reading, walking my dog, and trying not to let my ears freeze off.
You can find me on Facebook (facebook.com/charlesfinchauthor) where my reader are always giving fantastic book reviews, or Twitter (twitter.com/charlesfinch) which I don't like quite as much, though it's okay. I'll also try to blog here. Please let me know what I'm doing wrong, since I have remedial goodreads skills...
My name is Charles Finch - welcome! I'm the author of the Charles Lenox series of historical mysteries, as well as a recent novel about expatriate life in Oxford, THE LAST ENCHANTMENTS. I also write book reviews for the New York Times, USA Today, and the Chicago Tribune and essays in many different places.
Like most people on this website, I'm a huge reader. My taste is all over the place, though I tend to really like literary and mystery fiction. Some of my favorite writers: George Orwell, Henry Green, Dick Francis, Anthony Trollope, David Lodge, PG Wodehouse, Bill Bryson, Roberto Bolano, Jonathan Franzen, Shirley Hazzard, Leo Tolstoy, AR Ammons, Philip Larkin, Edgar Bowers, Laurent Binet, Laurie Colwin, Jane Austen, Arthur Conan Doyle, Philip Roth, Henrik Ibsen, Geoff Dyer, the list could go forever...
A bit about myself: I was born in New York City, and since then I've lived all over the place, in America, England, France...at the moment I'm in Chicago, where I just recently moved. I spend most of my time here writing, reading, walking my dog, and trying not to let my ears freeze off.
You can find me on Facebook (facebook.com/charlesfinchauthor) where my reader are always giving fantastic book reviews, or Twitter (twitter.com/charlesfinch) which I don't like quite as much, though it's okay. I'll also try to blog here. Please let me know what I'm doing wrong, since I have remedial goodreads skills...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 452 reviews
May 3, 2015
Was four stars last week but I edited the hell out of it
November 9, 2024
5 Stars. This whole series is a good one. Author Charles Finch is great story teller! I am upset I didn't read the titles consecutively from the start rather than pulling them off the shelf randomly. MP Charles Lenox has followed his first love, that of being a private detective, and retired from a very promising career as a member of the English House of Commons. Could he have made Prime Minister one day? But his new detective agency is floundering and he's desperate to be seen pulling his weight for his three partners. He even takes a small case with the unknown assistance of his lovely wife, Lady Jane. When a Scotland Yard detective is murdered, they call on him and away we go. Just for the record, the first title in the series, 'A Beautiful Blue Death,' came out in 2007! I'll get to it sooner rather than later. (2017/No2024)
December 4, 2014
First Sentence: A late winter’s night in London: the city hushed; the revelers half an hour in their beds; a new snow softening every dull shade of gray and brown into angelic whiteness.
Charles Lenox has retired from Parliament and returned to detective work, opening an agency with three others. Business has fallen off, and unfavorable statements have been made about the agency in the press, one by Inspector Jenkins, a long-time Scotland Yard ally. When Jenkins is murdered, Inspector Nicholson, with whom Lenox had also worked, comes to hire the agency’s help. Of particular interest to Lenox is that Jenkins body is in front of the house of the Marquess of Wakefield, one of those on Lenox’s list of criminals who have, so far, evaded his capture.
The first sentence alone provides a sense of the wonderful sense of place created by Finch. His period details are just as well honed. Unfortunately, a very fine first chapter is spoiled with the inclusion of a completely unnecessary portent which immediately takes the reader out of the moment the author just spent several pages constructing. Happily, it was the only portent.
Finch has created a very good, well-rounded cast of characters. They are fully dimensional and have lives beyond the actual mystery. He also brings new readers up to speed very quickly. He writes small children very well and the interludes of domesticity add a charm and sense of reality to the story. By Lenox having a daughter, it enables him to contemplate the roles of women in present, and in future, society. Though his friendship with his former butler, we learn a bit about the inner workings of Parliament during that time.
Even though the reader is quite certain the tides of fortune will, at some point, change, it’s nice to see the protagonist realistically going through a difficult time. That Lenox realizes he is in a situation different from anything he has previously experienced adds a maturity to the character and the story.
Finch has a wonderful way with words that add a richness to the story; “…big windows overlooking Chancery Lane. Dozens of raindrops were dawdling down them, moving infinitesimally until one would decide to fall all at once in a split second, as if dashing for a forgotten appointment.”
“The Laws of Murder” is a well done historical mystery with a good plot twist and a very satisfactory climax.
THE LAWS OF MURDER (Hist Mys/Enquiry Agent-Charles Lenox-London-1876) - VG
Finch, Charles – 8th in series
Minotaur Books, 2014
Charles Lenox has retired from Parliament and returned to detective work, opening an agency with three others. Business has fallen off, and unfavorable statements have been made about the agency in the press, one by Inspector Jenkins, a long-time Scotland Yard ally. When Jenkins is murdered, Inspector Nicholson, with whom Lenox had also worked, comes to hire the agency’s help. Of particular interest to Lenox is that Jenkins body is in front of the house of the Marquess of Wakefield, one of those on Lenox’s list of criminals who have, so far, evaded his capture.
The first sentence alone provides a sense of the wonderful sense of place created by Finch. His period details are just as well honed. Unfortunately, a very fine first chapter is spoiled with the inclusion of a completely unnecessary portent which immediately takes the reader out of the moment the author just spent several pages constructing. Happily, it was the only portent.
Finch has created a very good, well-rounded cast of characters. They are fully dimensional and have lives beyond the actual mystery. He also brings new readers up to speed very quickly. He writes small children very well and the interludes of domesticity add a charm and sense of reality to the story. By Lenox having a daughter, it enables him to contemplate the roles of women in present, and in future, society. Though his friendship with his former butler, we learn a bit about the inner workings of Parliament during that time.
Even though the reader is quite certain the tides of fortune will, at some point, change, it’s nice to see the protagonist realistically going through a difficult time. That Lenox realizes he is in a situation different from anything he has previously experienced adds a maturity to the character and the story.
Finch has a wonderful way with words that add a richness to the story; “…big windows overlooking Chancery Lane. Dozens of raindrops were dawdling down them, moving infinitesimally until one would decide to fall all at once in a split second, as if dashing for a forgotten appointment.”
“The Laws of Murder” is a well done historical mystery with a good plot twist and a very satisfactory climax.
THE LAWS OF MURDER (Hist Mys/Enquiry Agent-Charles Lenox-London-1876) - VG
Finch, Charles – 8th in series
Minotaur Books, 2014
October 25, 2014
Another really excellent entry in the Charles Lenox mystery series. The last book was my favorite, so I wondered how this next one would compare. It compares beautifully. Mr. Finch has been able to maintain the excellence of this series, never resorting to any kind of formulaic plot, as, truly, most mystery series writers do. His characters continue to grow, their lives and situations change, but they stay true to their principles.
As the previous book ends, Lenox has decided to leave his career in Parliament, to pursue his first love - detecting. But he is finding it a more difficult transition than expected. While he was learning to navigate the halls of Parliament, others were gaining expertise in his field. He's feeling a bit left behind. As he joins in a new partnership and their fledgling business fights for survival, Charles' reputation is under attack in the press. With confidence waning, and trusted friends failing him, he finds himself having to investigate one of the most evil adversaries from his past.
As the previous book ends, Lenox has decided to leave his career in Parliament, to pursue his first love - detecting. But he is finding it a more difficult transition than expected. While he was learning to navigate the halls of Parliament, others were gaining expertise in his field. He's feeling a bit left behind. As he joins in a new partnership and their fledgling business fights for survival, Charles' reputation is under attack in the press. With confidence waning, and trusted friends failing him, he finds himself having to investigate one of the most evil adversaries from his past.
November 19, 2014
This series keeps getting better. I read this installment slowly, not because it was less than engrossing but because I wanted to savor it. I love the characters and the period detail and atmosphere. The plot was good with a twist that wasn’t too obvious. Having each chapter build up at the end with a mini-climax to keep you turning the pages can feel contrived in many books but not in this one. Charles Finch has it working smoothly, logically, in a perfect flow. The only fault I could find and that is really nitpicking was that the action climax came a bit early. It seemed to take a tiny bit too long to tie up loose ends. If goodreads allowed half marks I would give this one four and a half. I enjoyed it thoroughly.
August 15, 2018
Another well written mystery. Only one weak point: I guessed the murderer early on!!! (That never happens to me.)
I really enjoyed it. At first, I felt it was a lot darker than normal. Charles Lenox seemed older, more depressed. But it grew on me and moved into an excellent mystery. Loved it.
I really enjoyed it. At first, I felt it was a lot darker than normal. Charles Lenox seemed older, more depressed. But it grew on me and moved into an excellent mystery. Loved it.
January 6, 2015
I'm done, and now I am crying.
The story was great.
The ending was touching.
I'm trying to hold back the tears.
How long will I have to wait.
Until Charles completes the next?
Please, Mr. Finch...
Don't let it be years!
I listened to this book on CD, narrated by James Langton.
The story was great.
The ending was touching.
I'm trying to hold back the tears.
How long will I have to wait.
Until Charles completes the next?
Please, Mr. Finch...
Don't let it be years!
I listened to this book on CD, narrated by James Langton.
April 17, 2020
This eighth book was yet another delightful installment in the Charles Lenox Mystery series. Author Charles Finch never fails to amuse, educate and draw his readers down a circuitous path to the mystery's conclusion. It was definitely an enjoyable "excursion".
This story finds our protagonist busy at work assisting Scotland Yard on closing a few tough cases while also participating in a recently established four partner detective agency. His minimal number of billable hours causes a bit of friction with at least two of the partners. The unfavorable press, as of late, has harmed the fledgling agency severely. The press' quotes of comments from Scotland Yard do not ring true to their previously congenial working relationship with the constabulary. Coincidentally, that same Scotland Yard's inspector suddenly turns up dead and his is quickly followed by another murder - a member of the ton. Scotland Yard seeks Lenox's assistance in solving the two murders which continues to strain both office environments. Can Lenox solve the murders and hold his agency together. Only time will tell.
As previously mentioned, if you enjoy smartly written historical mysteries, then the Charles Lenox Mystery series may be just the one for you. Finch writes prose exquisitely with an eye to every detail. It is a pleasure reading his scenic descriptions as much as delving into the details of the mysteries themselves. The banter among characters is absolutely delightful and it eases the tension of the grizzly parts of the stories.
There are so many twists and turns in this story that just when you think you got all the facts in order another twist is introduced. I do so enjoy the author's cleverness, depth of research and delightful writing style. As much as this book can stand stand on its own in spite of being part of series, you won't want to miss out on all the work leading up to this moment - the groundwork which is laid out in the previous seven books.
Synopsis (from publisher's website):
It's 1876, and Charles Lenox, once London's leading private investigator, has just given up his seat in Parliament after six years, primed to return to his first love, detection. With high hopes he and three colleagues start a new detective agency, the first of its kind. But as the months pass, and he is the only detective who cannot find work, Lenox begins to question whether he can still play the game as he once did.
Then comes a chance to redeem himself, though at a terrible price: a friend, a member of Scotland Yard, is shot near Regent's Park. As Lenox begins to parse the peculiar details of the death – an unlaced boot, a days-old wound, an untraceable luggage ticket – he realizes that the incident may lead him into grave personal danger, beyond which lies a terrible truth.
With all the humanity, glamour, and mystery that readers have come to love, the latest Lenox novel is a shining new confirmation of the enduring popularity of Charles Finch's Victorian series.
This story finds our protagonist busy at work assisting Scotland Yard on closing a few tough cases while also participating in a recently established four partner detective agency. His minimal number of billable hours causes a bit of friction with at least two of the partners. The unfavorable press, as of late, has harmed the fledgling agency severely. The press' quotes of comments from Scotland Yard do not ring true to their previously congenial working relationship with the constabulary. Coincidentally, that same Scotland Yard's inspector suddenly turns up dead and his is quickly followed by another murder - a member of the ton. Scotland Yard seeks Lenox's assistance in solving the two murders which continues to strain both office environments. Can Lenox solve the murders and hold his agency together. Only time will tell.
As previously mentioned, if you enjoy smartly written historical mysteries, then the Charles Lenox Mystery series may be just the one for you. Finch writes prose exquisitely with an eye to every detail. It is a pleasure reading his scenic descriptions as much as delving into the details of the mysteries themselves. The banter among characters is absolutely delightful and it eases the tension of the grizzly parts of the stories.
There are so many twists and turns in this story that just when you think you got all the facts in order another twist is introduced. I do so enjoy the author's cleverness, depth of research and delightful writing style. As much as this book can stand stand on its own in spite of being part of series, you won't want to miss out on all the work leading up to this moment - the groundwork which is laid out in the previous seven books.
Synopsis (from publisher's website):
It's 1876, and Charles Lenox, once London's leading private investigator, has just given up his seat in Parliament after six years, primed to return to his first love, detection. With high hopes he and three colleagues start a new detective agency, the first of its kind. But as the months pass, and he is the only detective who cannot find work, Lenox begins to question whether he can still play the game as he once did.
Then comes a chance to redeem himself, though at a terrible price: a friend, a member of Scotland Yard, is shot near Regent's Park. As Lenox begins to parse the peculiar details of the death – an unlaced boot, a days-old wound, an untraceable luggage ticket – he realizes that the incident may lead him into grave personal danger, beyond which lies a terrible truth.
With all the humanity, glamour, and mystery that readers have come to love, the latest Lenox novel is a shining new confirmation of the enduring popularity of Charles Finch's Victorian series.
November 21, 2014
4.5 stars
I am a big fan of this series. I have read the first four books and would have kept reading the next ones but I had to wait for the 5th book to come out and when it finally did, I couldn’t work it into my reading schedule. However, when this one came up for review I jumped on it.
Though I have missed the last three books, I didn’t feel like I really missed out on a whole lot of the story. One of the things I like most about this series is the focus is really on the mystery rather than the personal lives of the characters. Sure we get to know all of the main people and we get snippets of their lives….enough that we identify with them and like them, but it’s not the focus. The mystery is where it’s at.
This has been the hallmark of most of the books in the series, with the exception of book three which had a large focus on the characters’ personal lives, so I am glad to see that Finch went back to his original formula in the fourth book and continued with it.
The mystery was great. I was really trying to piece it all together with the few clues that were provided and with the red herrings added in it kept me guessing. There were some people that I suspected right away but I wasn’t quite sure how they were going to fit in to the story or what role they played in the murder.
As with many of the Lenox novels, I love how unlikely people come together in the mysteries. There is always an interesting mix of people from all walks of life….lords, ladies, service staff, police officers, newspaper writers, wealthy property owners, minor ‘royalty’, politicians, doctors…..all kinds of people and they all play a part somehow in the story. For me the versatility of the characters really drives the series, it’s like you never know what you are going to get or from what walk of like the murderer is going to come from.
While this series has been consistently good, I personally feel like the books are getting better and better. The first novels were good, but the more I read, the better and more complex they seem to get.
And…..I can’t say how much I love the cover designs! Every. Single. One. They are awesome and eye catching….simple but eye catching. I love them all!
See my full review here
I am a big fan of this series. I have read the first four books and would have kept reading the next ones but I had to wait for the 5th book to come out and when it finally did, I couldn’t work it into my reading schedule. However, when this one came up for review I jumped on it.
Though I have missed the last three books, I didn’t feel like I really missed out on a whole lot of the story. One of the things I like most about this series is the focus is really on the mystery rather than the personal lives of the characters. Sure we get to know all of the main people and we get snippets of their lives….enough that we identify with them and like them, but it’s not the focus. The mystery is where it’s at.
This has been the hallmark of most of the books in the series, with the exception of book three which had a large focus on the characters’ personal lives, so I am glad to see that Finch went back to his original formula in the fourth book and continued with it.
The mystery was great. I was really trying to piece it all together with the few clues that were provided and with the red herrings added in it kept me guessing. There were some people that I suspected right away but I wasn’t quite sure how they were going to fit in to the story or what role they played in the murder.
As with many of the Lenox novels, I love how unlikely people come together in the mysteries. There is always an interesting mix of people from all walks of life….lords, ladies, service staff, police officers, newspaper writers, wealthy property owners, minor ‘royalty’, politicians, doctors…..all kinds of people and they all play a part somehow in the story. For me the versatility of the characters really drives the series, it’s like you never know what you are going to get or from what walk of like the murderer is going to come from.
While this series has been consistently good, I personally feel like the books are getting better and better. The first novels were good, but the more I read, the better and more complex they seem to get.
And…..I can’t say how much I love the cover designs! Every. Single. One. They are awesome and eye catching….simple but eye catching. I love them all!
See my full review here
September 13, 2014
This Victorian murder is different than the gritty, hard core thrillers I usually read. I found it very thoroughly researched and well written. Multiple murders, multiple suspects. It's fascinating to read how crimes were solved in the days before internet, DNA, phones or even fax machines. Understanding how they had to do it, it's surprising that any crimes were ever solved in those days.
October 30, 2014
I’ve been a fan of this series since the very first book, A Beautiful Blue Death, came out in 2007. Somehow, I always know that I can count on Charles Finch to make the newest adventure just as fresh and entertaining as the one before and The Laws of Murder did not disappoint me in any way.
Scotland Yard hires Charles Lenox to aid in the investigation into the murder of one of its own, Inspector Thomas Jenkins. This is much more personal than some of his earlier cases since he had counted the inspector as a friend despite the unkind comments Jenkins had made in the newspapers about the agency and its unlikelihood of success.
The inner workings of the detective agency Charles formed with his partners—Lenox, Dallington, Strickland and DeMaire—are a real treat as we get to see more of how crime fighters did things back in the 1870’s with none of the fancy tools we have today like DNA testing, ballistics and technological gadgets such as cellphones and computers. Not everyone wishes the agency well, as seen in the territorial distrust and contempt coming from most of the Yard and the antipathy of the press, and Lenox seems to be having a bit of trouble getting back into the business of investigation after his seven years in Parliament.
As the investigation proceeds, Lenox and his partners find themselves drawn into a very shady mix of the criminal world and the highest levels of society. What could Jenkins have had to with the Slavonian Club and its dirty secrets and who is trying so hard to destroy Lenox, Dallington, Strickland and DeMaire?
Along with the principles, especially Charles, John and Polly, I enjoyed spending time with old favorites Graham and Lady Jane in The Laws of Murder. Mr. Finch has a particular talent in both plot development and in building vibrant characters, including the city of London itself. This entry in the series is one of my favorites because it brings Charles Lenox out of the worthy but stultifying halls of the House of Lords and back into the vocation he loves, detecting. It’s nice to have him back in the thick of things.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, October 2014.
Scotland Yard hires Charles Lenox to aid in the investigation into the murder of one of its own, Inspector Thomas Jenkins. This is much more personal than some of his earlier cases since he had counted the inspector as a friend despite the unkind comments Jenkins had made in the newspapers about the agency and its unlikelihood of success.
The inner workings of the detective agency Charles formed with his partners—Lenox, Dallington, Strickland and DeMaire—are a real treat as we get to see more of how crime fighters did things back in the 1870’s with none of the fancy tools we have today like DNA testing, ballistics and technological gadgets such as cellphones and computers. Not everyone wishes the agency well, as seen in the territorial distrust and contempt coming from most of the Yard and the antipathy of the press, and Lenox seems to be having a bit of trouble getting back into the business of investigation after his seven years in Parliament.
As the investigation proceeds, Lenox and his partners find themselves drawn into a very shady mix of the criminal world and the highest levels of society. What could Jenkins have had to with the Slavonian Club and its dirty secrets and who is trying so hard to destroy Lenox, Dallington, Strickland and DeMaire?
Along with the principles, especially Charles, John and Polly, I enjoyed spending time with old favorites Graham and Lady Jane in The Laws of Murder. Mr. Finch has a particular talent in both plot development and in building vibrant characters, including the city of London itself. This entry in the series is one of my favorites because it brings Charles Lenox out of the worthy but stultifying halls of the House of Lords and back into the vocation he loves, detecting. It’s nice to have him back in the thick of things.
Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, October 2014.
January 18, 2015
4.5 stars. Perhaps the thing I most cherish about the Charles Lennox mystery series is that I find myself smiling each time I flip the last page and close the book. It is akin to finishing a cuppa Earl Grey—having enjoyed something familiar yet still incredibly satisfying after the hundredth taste. Charles’s gentle, inquisitive nature and his basic at-heart goodness soothe my soul. He is by no means flawless and suffers from human foibles, in this story most notably pride, yet those very relatable characteristics make him an even more endearing character. His very humanness draws us in as readers and creates an empathy that brings us back in eagerness to see what happens next in Lennox’s life and in his interaction with the people he most cares about, as well as the foes he faces. Mr. Finch has again delivered yet another intriguing mystery with twists and turns that compelled me to continue reading beyond the time I should have turned out the light, yet thankfully did not send shivers of fear down my spine or produce nightmarish dreams, as so many of the lurid sensationalistic stories now do. Readers love a good story and powerful characters that leave them with a little something they can tuck in their pocket and pull out to think about later, and for me, each Charles Lennox mystery leaves me with such treasures. Yet another selling point for this series is the strength of its continuing storyline. Too often this far into a series, authors lose touch with the matchless quality that originally drew readers to their books, but this 8th novel is not only strong enough to stand alone, it has me waiting in anticipation for the next opportunity to smile as I curl up on the couch with my cuppa Earl Grey and Charles Lennox.
November 22, 2016
This is a solid Charles Lenox novel #8 taking place in 1876 London. It was fully 3.5 star for plot and details for manners and structures within/of the Victorian period. Although I rounded it up for the family life and excellent portrayal of the "starting of a small business" for this particular era. With the business struggling, losing one of its 4 partners and possibly a second- this was an under plot that I thought held excellent sensibilities and nuance to social class perceptions of that time for "business".
The only one I've enjoyed more was the last when Sophia was newborn. But this one, with Lennox out of Parliament and that district work completely, is back to doing what he now knows he wants to do for the rest of his life. That's straight detective work for individual or group hire.
This one features a truly creepy and black iron gated convent. Some murders, of course, by completely opposing means too- and a law officer of record and friendship is lost. And of course, there is new Marquis coming into his title at only 20, that we may see in the future? Sounds like a rather chubby and light haired milquetoast- but we may be fooled.
Good series- the progressions are fairly realistic and the characters are growing. No one is without flaws, but neither are the goody-two shoes sensibilities of the Victorian era facades forgotten for a moment, either.
The only one I've enjoyed more was the last when Sophia was newborn. But this one, with Lennox out of Parliament and that district work completely, is back to doing what he now knows he wants to do for the rest of his life. That's straight detective work for individual or group hire.
This one features a truly creepy and black iron gated convent. Some murders, of course, by completely opposing means too- and a law officer of record and friendship is lost. And of course, there is new Marquis coming into his title at only 20, that we may see in the future? Sounds like a rather chubby and light haired milquetoast- but we may be fooled.
Good series- the progressions are fairly realistic and the characters are growing. No one is without flaws, but neither are the goody-two shoes sensibilities of the Victorian era facades forgotten for a moment, either.
August 29, 2017
The newest in the wonderful Charles Lenox series, might just be my favourite. The mystery was very engaging, and quite personal for Charles this time, which only served to add to my curiosity! I also loved the new dynamic of Charles and Dallington working much more together again, because they just have wonderful chemistry. The thing I like best about this series is that there is so much character development, yet what I love about the characters remains steadfast. Charles is one of those select fictional characters I have almost mentally adopted as a friendly and clever uncle I'd like to have, so reading about him, his friends and family is always a pleasure. Though the mystery was quite engaging, these books are, for me, less about plot than about the people. I do recommend reading this series in order for that reason.
Finch also deserves high praise for his mastery of the language and customs of Victorian times. It sounds polished and elegant, without being false or over-the-top as many historical fiction novels can be in an effort to prove their worth in the genre.
The only negative thing I have to say is that I will now have to wait another year for the next installment!
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
Finch also deserves high praise for his mastery of the language and customs of Victorian times. It sounds polished and elegant, without being false or over-the-top as many historical fiction novels can be in an effort to prove their worth in the genre.
The only negative thing I have to say is that I will now have to wait another year for the next installment!
Find more reviews and bookish fun at http://www.princessandpen.com
January 8, 2015
Another solid entry in a good series. Excellent characters--I love the relationship between Lenox and his wife and among the group of friends. there's a real sense that the characters have lives outside of solving the mysteries. And it's a good puzzle, complex with a twist. Details of mid-Victorian times and political/social issues. Relaxed pacing, elements of cozy in comfortable character lives and little violence or gritty descriptions (bad things happen but not on stage), witty dialog and some humor, an upbeat tone, although Charles is pretty introspective here, wondering if he made the right choice to leave parliament and go back into detecting full time. We know he was right.
January 14, 2021
Returning to his former career is not as triumphant or successful as Lenox imagined. In fact, he comes to the stunning realization that he is a millstone around the other business partner's necks and the reason the agency is getting bad press. He needs a big, complicated case to change things, but never would he have wished for the one that comes his way. Another riveting detective adventure in the Victorian world of Charles Lenox had me settling in and anticipating something good.
The Laws of Murder is the eighth in a series that works best read in order because of the ongoing character development and some series plot threads though each book does have a standalone mystery.
I loved seeing how Charles would respond to this personal crisis he was experiencing. He's dutiful, loyal, and tenacious, but he was in a situation that left him unable to fight back. His work was slandered in the papers by the very people he built up and helped. The detective agency was trembling on the brink since it was new and he was the only one not bringing in any cases or contributing to the company. Lady Jane, his wife, is even leery of him going back into dangerous work. And, then the case he gets is personal because of who the victim is and who he assumes is the villain. But he is thwarted by those who are always one step ahead. He really had to work for this one and work through personal doubts. I think, as a result, that this became my favorite in the series so far.
As to the mystery, I had a pretty good idea who was behind it and what was going on once they made the discovery after figuring out the claim ticket. But, there were still several surprises and I was never sure how they were going to prove it all with evidence. I found it pretty thrilling and I didn't lay the book down once after I reached the half-way point.
And, so, another abso-fab Charles Lenox mystery. Thankfully, I am behind and can pick up the next book as soon as I can. I can definitely recommend these Victorian Era mysteries.
The Laws of Murder is the eighth in a series that works best read in order because of the ongoing character development and some series plot threads though each book does have a standalone mystery.
I loved seeing how Charles would respond to this personal crisis he was experiencing. He's dutiful, loyal, and tenacious, but he was in a situation that left him unable to fight back. His work was slandered in the papers by the very people he built up and helped. The detective agency was trembling on the brink since it was new and he was the only one not bringing in any cases or contributing to the company. Lady Jane, his wife, is even leery of him going back into dangerous work. And, then the case he gets is personal because of who the victim is and who he assumes is the villain. But he is thwarted by those who are always one step ahead. He really had to work for this one and work through personal doubts. I think, as a result, that this became my favorite in the series so far.
As to the mystery, I had a pretty good idea who was behind it and what was going on once they made the discovery after figuring out the claim ticket. But, there were still several surprises and I was never sure how they were going to prove it all with evidence. I found it pretty thrilling and I didn't lay the book down once after I reached the half-way point.
And, so, another abso-fab Charles Lenox mystery. Thankfully, I am behind and can pick up the next book as soon as I can. I can definitely recommend these Victorian Era mysteries.
January 15, 2020
I may not have liked this one quite as much as the others, but they are all engaging and charming. I'm sure I'll read them until Charles Finch, the author, can't write any more . . .
April 6, 2017
Mystery stories set in the past hold a certain fascination for me, so I turned to the Charles Lenox detective series with anticipation. The Laws of Murder, the eighth and most recent addition to the series, is a workmanlike effort but fell short of delivering the thrill I get when a mystery or thriller truly captivates me.
The book begins with promise, serving up the dead body of an aristocrat (a marquess, which is apparently a big deal, outranked only by dukes) on a sidewalk in front of his elegant London home.
Charles Lenox is a Victorian gentleman who is married to a much-admired aristocrat, Lady Jane. In The Laws of Murder, set in London in 1876, Lenox has recently left his seat in Parliament to open the city’s first detective agency with three partners: a Frenchman, an extremely resourceful young woman, and a younger man Lenox considers his protege. Apparently, he has long been engaged in solving the occasional mystery. Now he’s determined to go about it full-time. Lenox is especially keen on tracking down seven vicious criminals who escaped justice during his days as an amateur detective. As Lenox and his partners dig into the mystery surrounding the death of the marquess — clearly, a murder — mystery piles on mystery . . . and just about everything goes wrong at the new agency.
Charles Finch is an American writer, educated at Yale and Oxford, who now lives in Oxford. In addition to the eight books in the Charles Lenox series, Finch has recently written a contemporary novel.
The book begins with promise, serving up the dead body of an aristocrat (a marquess, which is apparently a big deal, outranked only by dukes) on a sidewalk in front of his elegant London home.
Charles Lenox is a Victorian gentleman who is married to a much-admired aristocrat, Lady Jane. In The Laws of Murder, set in London in 1876, Lenox has recently left his seat in Parliament to open the city’s first detective agency with three partners: a Frenchman, an extremely resourceful young woman, and a younger man Lenox considers his protege. Apparently, he has long been engaged in solving the occasional mystery. Now he’s determined to go about it full-time. Lenox is especially keen on tracking down seven vicious criminals who escaped justice during his days as an amateur detective. As Lenox and his partners dig into the mystery surrounding the death of the marquess — clearly, a murder — mystery piles on mystery . . . and just about everything goes wrong at the new agency.
Charles Finch is an American writer, educated at Yale and Oxford, who now lives in Oxford. In addition to the eight books in the Charles Lenox series, Finch has recently written a contemporary novel.
March 11, 2024
This is an entertaining, easy series but I keep coming back 100% because of the narrator of the audiobooks. He just has a wonderful voice and reminds me a little bit of Jim Dale who reads the Harry Potter series.
March 10, 2022
Charles Lenox has left Parliament and thrown his luck in with John Dallington, Polly Buchanan, and LeMaire to open the first cooperative detective agency. Things don't go well from the start. The newspapers seem to have a made a dead set against them and even former friends and colleagues at Scotland Yard are quoted making disparaging remarks about the venture. Lenox, in particular, seems to be a target and as the agency gets underway few cases come his way.
But worries about the agency are put aside when Inspector Jenkins is found murdered and Inspector Nicholson comes to ask Lenox to help investigate. Apparently Jenkins left a message that if anything happened to him, Lenox was to have all his notes and should be allowed to help investigate. Lenox absolutely wants to avenge his friend's death....and, of course, also hopes that a successful investigation will bolster the agency's reputation. It's hard going, though. Jenkins's notes have disappeared and the only thing found on his person is a claim ticket that doesn't seem to belong to any of the usual places for stashing items.
When Lenox realizes that Jenkins was killed just opposite the house of Lord Wakefield, a man they had been trying for years to find evidence enough to convict of many crimes, he suspects a connection. But then Wakefield is found dead as well and all of his ideas are turned upside down. It will take all of his powers of detection...as well as that of his partners and Inspector Nicholson...to connect all the pieces of the puzzle and identify the culprit behind Jenkins's murder.
Not a fan of letting a primary villain of the piece off easy. When the mystery was wrapped up a couple of chapters before the book ended, I had hopes that more details would come to light and Mr/s. X would get their full desserts. Well...more details did surface, but they didn't do anything to secure Mr/s. X's conviction of the murder. Instead we wind up with someone else who is involved committing suicide by poisoning (while in jail!) and writing a "confession" to take all the blame. So our culprit gets off with a slap on the wrist for lesser charges.
I also didn't much care for the use of Jenkins to make life difficult for the fledgling detective agency by giving them bad press for money. Jenkins seemed to be more honorable than that (in previous books) and also seemed to be far more friendly to Lenox and company. I just don't see him doing it--I don't care what bills were due. And speaking of the fledgling detective agency, Lenox is a bright man. I didn't find it terribly realistic that his skills would have deteriorated that badly while he was in Parliament--especially since he kept his hand in and was involved in several cases while he was serving in the government. Not to mention keeping up with Dallington and discussing his cases. The whole difficulty among the partners in the agency was a bit off-putting.
[As an aside and as I've mentioned in reviews of previous entries in the series...I wasn't enamored with the story line with Lenox in Parliament over the last few books. He was a good detective. He enjoyed detecting. I wish we could have just let him keep on detecting without sidetracking off into government.]
The mystery itself was solid enough and I appreciated the good detective work that was done (once Lenox stopped bemoaning the fact that his skills just weren't what they used to be and we got away from meetings where it was underlined that he wasn't pulling his weight). There were some nice twists and with a few more bits of good solid evidence, Lenox and Inspector Nicholson could have tied all the criminals up quite nicely.
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block.
But worries about the agency are put aside when Inspector Jenkins is found murdered and Inspector Nicholson comes to ask Lenox to help investigate. Apparently Jenkins left a message that if anything happened to him, Lenox was to have all his notes and should be allowed to help investigate. Lenox absolutely wants to avenge his friend's death....and, of course, also hopes that a successful investigation will bolster the agency's reputation. It's hard going, though. Jenkins's notes have disappeared and the only thing found on his person is a claim ticket that doesn't seem to belong to any of the usual places for stashing items.
When Lenox realizes that Jenkins was killed just opposite the house of Lord Wakefield, a man they had been trying for years to find evidence enough to convict of many crimes, he suspects a connection. But then Wakefield is found dead as well and all of his ideas are turned upside down. It will take all of his powers of detection...as well as that of his partners and Inspector Nicholson...to connect all the pieces of the puzzle and identify the culprit behind Jenkins's murder.
Not a fan of letting a primary villain of the piece off easy. When the mystery was wrapped up a couple of chapters before the book ended, I had hopes that more details would come to light and Mr/s. X would get their full desserts. Well...more details did surface, but they didn't do anything to secure Mr/s. X's conviction of the murder. Instead we wind up with someone else who is involved committing suicide by poisoning (while in jail!) and writing a "confession" to take all the blame. So our culprit gets off with a slap on the wrist for lesser charges.
I also didn't much care for the use of Jenkins to make life difficult for the fledgling detective agency by giving them bad press for money. Jenkins seemed to be more honorable than that (in previous books) and also seemed to be far more friendly to Lenox and company. I just don't see him doing it--I don't care what bills were due. And speaking of the fledgling detective agency, Lenox is a bright man. I didn't find it terribly realistic that his skills would have deteriorated that badly while he was in Parliament--especially since he kept his hand in and was involved in several cases while he was serving in the government. Not to mention keeping up with Dallington and discussing his cases. The whole difficulty among the partners in the agency was a bit off-putting.
[As an aside and as I've mentioned in reviews of previous entries in the series...I wasn't enamored with the story line with Lenox in Parliament over the last few books. He was a good detective. He enjoyed detecting. I wish we could have just let him keep on detecting without sidetracking off into government.]
The mystery itself was solid enough and I appreciated the good detective work that was done (once Lenox stopped bemoaning the fact that his skills just weren't what they used to be and we got away from meetings where it was underlined that he wasn't pulling his weight). There were some nice twists and with a few more bits of good solid evidence, Lenox and Inspector Nicholson could have tied all the criminals up quite nicely.
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block.
June 29, 2020
Charles Finch (whose protagonist is also named* Charles--an unusual thing, and probably not a favorable sign) writes stiff-sounding pseudo-Victorian prose into which an 21st century expression occasionally inserts itself tinnily. It is 1876, and Charles Lenox, son and brother of baronets, and former Parliamentarian, has, with three others, formed a detective agency. As this is a business, he struggles mightily to reconcile his gentle background with having soiled his hands with trade. While this is reflective of what a mid-nineteenth gentleman might have felt, Lenox's new situation is undertaken voluntarily, which robs it of much of what might have been its sting, and makes his struggle seem artificial. (Oddly, one of Lenox's colleagues, Lord John Dallington, the younger son of a duke, seems not to struggle with this issue at all.)
The puzzle concerns the murder of a Yard detective with whom Lenox previously worked closely (in an amateur capacity), but with whom he has lately been at odds; it speedily connects with a dastardly marquess whom Lenox has long wished to bring to justice. What emerges is a twisted conspiracy which absolutely fails to convince--and the writing is not buoyant enough to be enjoyable despite that.
Mr. Finch does not seem to be able to convey conversation fluidly, and he is additionally lumbered with the task of trying to explain to the modern reader details of 19th century London life without weighing down his scenes or his plot. (The intricacies of Lenox's social life cause the word "aristocrat" to appear far too frequently.) While it is very hard to convey to a modern audience social distinctions which were profound, but were so embedded in contemporary minds that they must have been almost entirely subconscious, that is the task Mr. Finch set himself, and I can't say that, in my opinion, that he succeeds very well. Not recommended.
*Another character naming curiosity: why would any peer of the degree of earl or higher surnamed "Grey" ever have named a daughter Jane? Eccentric sense of humor?
Update re Lady Jane Grey: I have to take it back, it actually did happen that William Grey Earl of Stamford (a distant collateral relative of the 9 days queen) named his daughter Jane in 1899. I hope SHE had a sense of humor. Or perhaps it required none.
The puzzle concerns the murder of a Yard detective with whom Lenox previously worked closely (in an amateur capacity), but with whom he has lately been at odds; it speedily connects with a dastardly marquess whom Lenox has long wished to bring to justice. What emerges is a twisted conspiracy which absolutely fails to convince--and the writing is not buoyant enough to be enjoyable despite that.
Mr. Finch does not seem to be able to convey conversation fluidly, and he is additionally lumbered with the task of trying to explain to the modern reader details of 19th century London life without weighing down his scenes or his plot. (The intricacies of Lenox's social life cause the word "aristocrat" to appear far too frequently.) While it is very hard to convey to a modern audience social distinctions which were profound, but were so embedded in contemporary minds that they must have been almost entirely subconscious, that is the task Mr. Finch set himself, and I can't say that, in my opinion, that he succeeds very well. Not recommended.
*Another character naming curiosity: why would any peer of the degree of earl or higher surnamed "Grey" ever have named a daughter Jane? Eccentric sense of humor?
Update re Lady Jane Grey: I have to take it back, it actually did happen that William Grey Earl of Stamford (a distant collateral relative of the 9 days queen) named his daughter Jane in 1899. I hope SHE had a sense of humor. Or perhaps it required none.
July 5, 2022
Very enjoyable, especially since Lenox is developing an interest in women's rights sparked by a surprising source. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing as usual - which is effortlessly polished, as is the editing - and it was really nice to have such a great continuation in the series. Here, a character we've encountered before is murdered and of course it has a lot more impact than if someone had been introduced solely for the purpose of being a corpse. I'm enjoying the characterization of Polly very much too.
This book felt a little final, as if the end were near. I haven't heard any news of the sort but something about it made me think the author's starting to bring this series to a close. I hope I'm wrong. While not explosive, these well-written mysteries are extremely satisfying and I for one would be very saddened by a sudden end.
This book felt a little final, as if the end were near. I haven't heard any news of the sort but something about it made me think the author's starting to bring this series to a close. I hope I'm wrong. While not explosive, these well-written mysteries are extremely satisfying and I for one would be very saddened by a sudden end.
Read
January 16, 2015The Laws of Murder is another spellbinder in the Charles Lenox series of novels. Lenox has given up his seat in Parliament to return to his once and future vocation, detective work. Against the backdrop of difficulties in establishing a detective agency with his colleagues, he is working to solve an enigmatic murder of a London bobby. The case carries Lenox into the totally unexpected in an absorbing tale richly described and deftly crafted by Finch. I have read all the novels in the series and am anxiously awaiting the next one.
August 24, 2015
I absolutley love the Charles Lennox series. I picked up the first in the series A Beautiful Blue Death and it was one of the best gems I have found because it allowed me to get to know the characters and appreciate them for who they are - reading each book in the series. This one did end fairly quickly but that being said I definitely can't wait for the next one to come out!!
April 29, 2017
This was the best-written Lenox mystery. It held my attention from start to finish, and I was completely engaged. The reason I can't give it 5 stars is because of the lurid component of the mystery. It was too sensational for my taste. When the subject was first broached, I was fine, but then the investigators delve into the nitty gritty of the circumstances which was a real turn off.
Everything else in the book, however, was perfection!
Everything else in the book, however, was perfection!
September 14, 2017
This reader is very happy that the series detective is OUT of Parliament. This is the eighth in the Lenox series, the sixth I have read, and the best by a long shot since the first two. Good too to see Lenox knocked down a couple notches with some failure and setbacks. Complex story, new and old characters, a little action and the usual Victorian setting.
November 9, 2014
An excellent edition to the Charles Lenox series. The twists are terrific in this book.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
November 13, 2014
The Charles Lennox series just gets better and better. I read this in one day. Just could not put it down. Never a dull moment. Keep them coming!
August 4, 2015
I just love these books! Rock on Charles Lenox!!!
June 25, 2016
Oh well done, possibly the best one of the lot! Very well done.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 452 reviews