She’s also dealing with her newfound ability to perform magic, something that her friend and master, Theophilius Gout, seems deeply uncomfortable about.
To find answers, they are off to London, to meet with a mysterious old friend of Mr Gout, who is supposed to be an expert in black magic cults. For they desperately need information on The Green Lily, a shadowy group that has dogged their adventures from the very beginning, and might just have the information they need.
But, as always with Trussel and Paranormal Investigations, things don’t quite go according to plan, and it seems Mr Gout’s scholarly friend has problems of his own. And they're waiting right outside the door!
This continues the adventures of supernatural investigators Theophilius and his apprentice Clementine. They head to London in search of answers about Clementine's magic and find themselves in the midst of a feud between vampires and werewolves. I love this series! It is filled with loveable characters with distinct personalities, an adorable ghost rabbit (although Custard does not feature much in this one), and great integration of mythological creatures. It's a short, cosy read that includes some peril and mystery. Themes of loyalty and conscience are explored. I cannot wait for the next one!
I previously read the other books in the series and was anxiously awaiting this newest entry. It didn't disappoint. The main vampire was charismatic, Mr. Gout still felt jolly and comforting, and the thrill was increased in comparison to the previous books.
The only qualm I have with the book was Nora. While her motives were clear, she felt very plain. I would have loved to see more interactions with her and a bit more of a personality.
This was such a fun cosy paranormal mystery, full of magic and big personalities. The late Victorian setting gives it extra charm, and the whole thing has a light, quirky energy that makes it easy to breeze through. Not heavy at all, just a charming, slightly eccentric read that’s perfect when you want something magical but not too serious.
It’s the 5th in the series, and I’m excited the next one is out later this month and find out more about the secret society 👀
This is the 5th in a series. Start with “The Pig in the Derby Hat.”
Clementine, a paranormal investigator’s assistant, is used to the strange and dangerous side of the spiritual world. That doesn’t mean she isn’t on her toes when her journey has her path crossing werewolves and vampires. Very angry vampires. Every encounter with them leaves her newfound family closer to death’s door. Clementine hopes she can keep them all safe and wonders if maybe she isn’t the reason they’re always in danger.
This installment had me so emotionally invested! The action, the histories, the mysteries! These books always make me laugh but this one managed to make me cry as well. I love the depth of the characters now compared to book 1. The found family vibes are perfect.
The latest installment in his Trussel and Gout stories gives Knights a chance to fiddle with the lore surrounding vampires and werewolves, and he plays that fiddle well! At turns funny and frightening, endearing and exhilarating, this book delivers an excellent evolution of these wonderful characters and the strange world they inhabit. Well done!
Parts of this felt quite rushed to me, and there was an element of the plot that, as an American reader, didn't sit well with me. I will continue to read the series, especially since the end was more fleshed out than much of the middle was. And I did call the reveal at the end, so I'm excited to see where we go in book 6!