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Charles Lenox Mysteries #9
Home by Nightfall
It's London in 1876, and the whole city is abuzz with the enigmatic disappearance of a famous foreign pianist. Lenox has an eye on the matter - as a partner in a now-thriving detective agency, he's a natural choice to investigate. Just when he's tempted to turn his focus to it entirely, however, his grieving brother asks him to come down to Sussex, and Lenox leaves the metropolis behind for the quieter country life of his boyhood. Or so he thinks. In fact, something strange is afoot in Markethouse: small thefts, books, blankets, animals, and more alarmingly a break-in at the house of a local insurance agent. As he and his brother to investigate this small accumulation of mysteries, Lenox realizes that something very strange and serious indeed may be happening, more than just local mischief. Soon, he's racing to solve two cases at once, one in London and one in the country, before either turns deadly. Blending Charles Finch's trademark wit, elegance, and depth of research, this new mystery, equal parts Jane Austen and Charles Dickens, may be the finest in the series.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published November 10, 2015
576 people are currently reading
2509 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...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 374 reviews
December 16, 2014
I have about fifty pages left to write, but objectively I'm pretty sure this is a five-star read
October 12, 2015
This was an enjoyable historical mystery featuring Charles Lenox, former member of Parliament and now a part owner of a private detective agency. Yes, the aristocratic Lenox is now in "trade" for goodness sake. Meanwhile his wife, Lady Jane, is throwing parties that Royalty attend.
Lenox is involved in investigating not one but two mysteries. In London, a German pianist disappears in very mysterious circumstances that has the entire nation speculating on what happened. This could be a real boon for the agency if they can find the pianist. Meanwhile Charles accompanies his grieving brother to their childhood home in Markethouse. There is quite a mystery going on there with a series of small burglaries and finally a stabbing of the mayor. Working on the cases simultaneously keeps Charles on the go.
I learned a few things from this book. The expression, Riot Act, comes from a law enacted by George I in 1714. As a Hanoverian he was afraid the Stewart faction would try to overthrow him. He made a law making it illegal for 12 or more people to engage in "tumultuous assembly." This has evolved into our usage of reading someone the riot act. The other thing is the term, lackluster, comes from Shakespeare. He made it up. I love a book that teaches me new things.
I highly recommend this book as entertaining and informative.
Lenox is involved in investigating not one but two mysteries. In London, a German pianist disappears in very mysterious circumstances that has the entire nation speculating on what happened. This could be a real boon for the agency if they can find the pianist. Meanwhile Charles accompanies his grieving brother to their childhood home in Markethouse. There is quite a mystery going on there with a series of small burglaries and finally a stabbing of the mayor. Working on the cases simultaneously keeps Charles on the go.
I learned a few things from this book. The expression, Riot Act, comes from a law enacted by George I in 1714. As a Hanoverian he was afraid the Stewart faction would try to overthrow him. He made a law making it illegal for 12 or more people to engage in "tumultuous assembly." This has evolved into our usage of reading someone the riot act. The other thing is the term, lackluster, comes from Shakespeare. He made it up. I love a book that teaches me new things.
I highly recommend this book as entertaining and informative.
July 15, 2016
Charles Lenox novels have found a niche in my heart because each storyline provides such a pleasing juxtaposition of mysterious adventure and quiet calm to my reading soul. The mysteries are enjoyed vicariously as Charles and associates unfold the clues, while satisfaction of a more restive sort is found in the basic good nature of the main cast of characters. Over the course of this lovely series, Charles Lenox has shown himself throughout his varied roles—detective, brother, husband, father, friend—to be a man of refreshing integrity, who though reserved in manner, never-the-less cares deeply for those he loves and about the cases he becomes enmeshed in with each new storyline. There are two mysteries in Home By Nightfall, which entertain the curious mind, yet for me the attraction of this particular novel is more of a personal—a filial nature. Readers join in the journey with Charles as we witness his developing sense of the depth of his role as a new father to Sophia, his increasing appreciation for the integral place Lady Jane has taken in his life, but most importantly in this particular story, how incredibly vast his love is for his brother Edmund.
Through this brotherly connection, the author also enables the reader to experience how extraordinarily inadequate we can all feel when a loved one loses the love of their heart. Charles wants to help alleviate Edmund’s grief, yet is at a loss as to how that might be accomplished, which is a very relatable dilemma for any reader who has been in a similar situation. There are no words to convey the comfort needed when one feels a piece of themselves has been lost, and Charles recognizes this inadequacy. Yet, he quite literally tries his best to be just present with Edmund, and through these efforts and his observations of his brother, Charles comes to see the significance of the loss, particularly as if it had been his own loss of Jane. One of the mystery storylines also heightens Charles awareness of filial love and to what lengths Charles himself might sacrifice for his daughter Sophia and his wife Lady Jane.
This thought brings me to yet another reason I love each Charles Lenox story, and that is because I have developed a ritual after reading each novel. I slowly close the book, gaze upon the beautiful cover art, and quietly review in my mind the story yet once again from beginning to end. And then, I realize once more that I have come to know Charles just a smidge better with this telling, and each smidge settles him and his lovely world a bit deeper into my heart.
Through this brotherly connection, the author also enables the reader to experience how extraordinarily inadequate we can all feel when a loved one loses the love of their heart. Charles wants to help alleviate Edmund’s grief, yet is at a loss as to how that might be accomplished, which is a very relatable dilemma for any reader who has been in a similar situation. There are no words to convey the comfort needed when one feels a piece of themselves has been lost, and Charles recognizes this inadequacy. Yet, he quite literally tries his best to be just present with Edmund, and through these efforts and his observations of his brother, Charles comes to see the significance of the loss, particularly as if it had been his own loss of Jane. One of the mystery storylines also heightens Charles awareness of filial love and to what lengths Charles himself might sacrifice for his daughter Sophia and his wife Lady Jane.
This thought brings me to yet another reason I love each Charles Lenox story, and that is because I have developed a ritual after reading each novel. I slowly close the book, gaze upon the beautiful cover art, and quietly review in my mind the story yet once again from beginning to end. And then, I realize once more that I have come to know Charles just a smidge better with this telling, and each smidge settles him and his lovely world a bit deeper into my heart.
March 5, 2016
Another very wonderful story of Charles Lenox and his family. Sad news. The agency has a problem and a murder in the brothers' home town.
I bought this latest book but listened to the audio on CD from my library. I could not pass up on listening to James Langton again! His voice makes the characters come to life for me.
I bought this latest book but listened to the audio on CD from my library. I could not pass up on listening to James Langton again! His voice makes the characters come to life for me.
April 23, 2020
Author Charles Finch has really outdone himself with this 9th entry into the Charles Lenox Mystery series. He deftly weaves the stories of at least four mysteries throughout the book. His depth of research is sine qua non and his characters are strong, yet not infallible. Although each book can stand on its own, I do recommend starting from the beginning to get the full impact of the series' development.
As for this story, our protagonist, Charles Lenox, is partner in an up and coming detective agency. Just as an important case of a missing German pianist surfaces, Charles is called away to attend to family matters in Sussex, away from his London home. Sure enough, as he is well known for his detection capabilities, he is called to the scene of a house break-in in the village near the family's country estate. This case seems rather squirrelly, which just causes the hairs on the back of Charles' neck to rise. His heart is focused on family and his mind on at least two different cases. Can Charles figure it all out in time to save the day? Time will only tell. Oh, and yes, he has dead bodies with which to deal as well.
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 eight books.
Synopsis (from publisher's website):
It's London, 1876, and the whole city is abuzz with the enigmatic disappearance of a famous foreign pianist. Lenox has an eye on the matter - as a partner in a now thriving detective agency, he's a natural choice to investigate. Just when he's tempted to turn his focus to it entirely, however, his grieving brother asks him to come down to Sussex, and Lenox leaves the metropolis behind for the quieter country life of his boyhood. Or so he thinks. Something strange is afoot in Markethouse: small thefts, books, blankets, animals, and more alarmingly a break-in at the house of a local insurance agent. As he and his brother investigate this accumulation of mysteries, Lenox realizes that something very strange and serious indeed may be happening, more than just local mischief. Soon, he's racing to solve two cases at once, one in London and one in the country, before either turns deadly. Blending Charles Finch's trademark wit, elegance, and depth of research, this new mystery, equal parts Jane Austen and Charles Dickens, may be the finest in the series.
As for this story, our protagonist, Charles Lenox, is partner in an up and coming detective agency. Just as an important case of a missing German pianist surfaces, Charles is called away to attend to family matters in Sussex, away from his London home. Sure enough, as he is well known for his detection capabilities, he is called to the scene of a house break-in in the village near the family's country estate. This case seems rather squirrelly, which just causes the hairs on the back of Charles' neck to rise. His heart is focused on family and his mind on at least two different cases. Can Charles figure it all out in time to save the day? Time will only tell. Oh, and yes, he has dead bodies with which to deal as well.
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 eight books.
Synopsis (from publisher's website):
It's London, 1876, and the whole city is abuzz with the enigmatic disappearance of a famous foreign pianist. Lenox has an eye on the matter - as a partner in a now thriving detective agency, he's a natural choice to investigate. Just when he's tempted to turn his focus to it entirely, however, his grieving brother asks him to come down to Sussex, and Lenox leaves the metropolis behind for the quieter country life of his boyhood. Or so he thinks. Something strange is afoot in Markethouse: small thefts, books, blankets, animals, and more alarmingly a break-in at the house of a local insurance agent. As he and his brother investigate this accumulation of mysteries, Lenox realizes that something very strange and serious indeed may be happening, more than just local mischief. Soon, he's racing to solve two cases at once, one in London and one in the country, before either turns deadly. Blending Charles Finch's trademark wit, elegance, and depth of research, this new mystery, equal parts Jane Austen and Charles Dickens, may be the finest in the series.
January 26, 2021
Each time I declare that the one I just finished was the best in the series, I read the next one and discover that it was even better than the last. Home by Nightfall takes the Lenox family into dark times, but also cunning mysteries to distract them.
Charles is intrigued about the genius German pianist who has disappeared and all London has turned armchair detective, but he can't get in it fully because his brother Edmund's grief leaves him concerned deeply for his brother. So, a trip back to the family estate with Edmund leaves a mystery in London and finds a curious one in the country.
I loved seeing the two brothers leaning on each other and working on a mystery together. So much heart was in this story and it dug deep. In the end, the mysteries did their job of distraction, but still grief for a deep love of wife and sister is not to be pushed out so easily though family being around helps.
Both mysteries had some good twists and both had sad undertones when the solution was there. I like how these stories draw the reader in emotionally as well as intellectually. This one was not as light as others, but was still delightful.
Charles is intrigued about the genius German pianist who has disappeared and all London has turned armchair detective, but he can't get in it fully because his brother Edmund's grief leaves him concerned deeply for his brother. So, a trip back to the family estate with Edmund leaves a mystery in London and finds a curious one in the country.
I loved seeing the two brothers leaning on each other and working on a mystery together. So much heart was in this story and it dug deep. In the end, the mysteries did their job of distraction, but still grief for a deep love of wife and sister is not to be pushed out so easily though family being around helps.
Both mysteries had some good twists and both had sad undertones when the solution was there. I like how these stories draw the reader in emotionally as well as intellectually. This one was not as light as others, but was still delightful.
November 13, 2015
I have been a big fan of Charles Lenox since I read the first book. What I love about the Lenox mysteries as they are easily read as standalone’s, they aren’t overly complex, the mystery seems like it should be obvious but it rarely is, and Lenox is a logical and likable detective who always makes sure the reader is keeping up with the mystery.
That said, some of the mysteries have been better than others. For me personally, I like when the mystery is set in London and there is only one big mystery going on. In this book I felt like Lenox was spread a little thin with the missing German and the country thefts. I kept waiting for the two mysteries to some how be connected, but they weren’t. I just felt like there were one too many cases happening for my liking.
This mystery was just ok for me. I wanted to see more of Dallington (who is one of my favorite secondary characters) and see how his relationship with Polly is progressing. I also missed some of the regular characters such as McConnell and I wanted more Jane. I was surprised that Edmund played such a role in this book. At first I was kind of ‘meah’ about his involvement but by the end I was happy to see that he had his own unique detection talents so I thought that was an nice touch.
While I may not have liked this one as much as the others, there was plenty to keep me reading. I was really intrigued by the whole chalk drawing and how that fit in the mystery…..I also liked the resolution of the country mystery. It was much different than some of the other Lenox mysteries that I had read. I like that it put Lenox in kind of an ethical dilemma.
I think that every mystery series has a few novels that are better than others but in the end, you love the characters so much that you would keep reading no matter what and that’s what the Lenox series is for me. Not every book is a 5 star mystery but they are consistently well written and interesting and I love the characters so I will gladly continue reading regardless of how many stars each book got!
Side note…..can I just say what a lovely cover designer Finch has? Every single Lenox book has beautiful, eye catching covers! I love them all….I know you shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover…..well in this case you can, the covers are colorful and engaging…..not to mention interesting.
See my full review here
That said, some of the mysteries have been better than others. For me personally, I like when the mystery is set in London and there is only one big mystery going on. In this book I felt like Lenox was spread a little thin with the missing German and the country thefts. I kept waiting for the two mysteries to some how be connected, but they weren’t. I just felt like there were one too many cases happening for my liking.
This mystery was just ok for me. I wanted to see more of Dallington (who is one of my favorite secondary characters) and see how his relationship with Polly is progressing. I also missed some of the regular characters such as McConnell and I wanted more Jane. I was surprised that Edmund played such a role in this book. At first I was kind of ‘meah’ about his involvement but by the end I was happy to see that he had his own unique detection talents so I thought that was an nice touch.
While I may not have liked this one as much as the others, there was plenty to keep me reading. I was really intrigued by the whole chalk drawing and how that fit in the mystery…..I also liked the resolution of the country mystery. It was much different than some of the other Lenox mysteries that I had read. I like that it put Lenox in kind of an ethical dilemma.
I think that every mystery series has a few novels that are better than others but in the end, you love the characters so much that you would keep reading no matter what and that’s what the Lenox series is for me. Not every book is a 5 star mystery but they are consistently well written and interesting and I love the characters so I will gladly continue reading regardless of how many stars each book got!
Side note…..can I just say what a lovely cover designer Finch has? Every single Lenox book has beautiful, eye catching covers! I love them all….I know you shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover…..well in this case you can, the covers are colorful and engaging…..not to mention interesting.
See my full review here
September 2, 2018
There is just something special about this series. Is it the well developed characters and the sub-plots involving Charles' loved ones? Is it the well-crafted mystery? Is it the sensitive portrayal of justice being performed? Is it the high attention to historical detail that makes you feel you can just walk into Sir Edmund's dining room? Or is it the fact that the crimes being investigated could be crimes today: whether it being counterfeiting, human trafficking or the in this latest mystery?
I answer, YES!
I answer, YES!
July 5, 2022
Really good classic style mystery. Set more in the period of Sherlock Holmes than the Agatha Christie novels I consume regularly, but still really good. I also liked that the author didn’t try to mimic Sherlock Holmes and had a normalish detective. Also some really heartfelt dialogue between him and his brother as the brother endures very difficult circumstances. I would probably give it 4.5 stars if I could. Really good. I will enjoy another book in the series soon.
November 26, 2016
This #9 Charles Lenox was a great read, enjoyable as that perfect morsel of sweet caramel or still warm end of bread when famished and between meals. It entertained as well as it encouraged deducing. And with the duo prime cases going on both at the same time, with one in London and the other at his brother's Lenox country estate- the number of characters PLUS the shifting! It was not short, yet it never once dragged. And believe or not, readers, Finch didn't shift time periods, narrators, or styles of "eyes" to complete the "two at once" caseload, either. A miracle- and greatly appreciated by this reader.
Lady Jane, Toto, Sophia and Edmund all reign central to the movements, on top of it. Edmund has lost his wife in a quick illness and his personality and cognition are altered in tremendous grief. With both sons away in their youth with Navy and great distance long term absence, they don't even have knowledge of their young Mother's death. And that makes this Home by Nightfall especially poignant. Lady Jane, Charles SO try to help. But it's also a tremendous, IMHO, psychological survey for pulling close family from grief, too. Beyond the cabal of the missing musician in London, and the small town's missing articles and ominous graffiti question that culminates in violence- that underpinning of the surrounding Edmund to get him through was awesome. Victorians all, their emotion is never on their sleeve- but family affection and loyalty may evince itself in numerous other ways.
And this one also had great horses of individual personality and two dogs that were key and also delightful balls of energy at the same time.
Honestly, this series started out decent. It was fun to read, but just there. Now within the last 3, including this book- the series has fully blossomed. Each character seems so close to real and yet quite ordinary people. Believable beyond the depth of the characters you find in mystery novels with historical fiction backgrounds in general. Much beyond. Not parsed to self-involved verbose depiction and/or the snobbery or scathing politico preaching of the moderns either. They don't self analyze but their hearts become revealed. As do the ways they think, judge, act, embrace or not their own cultural traditions and heritages for purpose. Finch just does an excellent people job.
Here he does that within some aspects of barely revealed under characters too. And in a way they you "know" them very quickly.
At just about page 210 or so I guessed the perp for the town's series of events. In particular the stabber, and the why (all those little girl stick drawings probably mean more now than they did in Victorian times)- but I did not figure out the London scandal reveal. Musicians always seem to occupy "special rules" in any society?
Regardless, this book was 4.5 stars. And the balls in the country, a luncheon in which the Queen may show up or not but which had failed sherbet but 3 other Royals- and some dicey new agency progressions for some lively teenage runners and possible "inside" jobs? All of it going on at the same exact time!
Now I think I leave some time before I come back to #10 or beyond. Save it for a cold winter night perhaps.
Lady Jane, Toto, Sophia and Edmund all reign central to the movements, on top of it. Edmund has lost his wife in a quick illness and his personality and cognition are altered in tremendous grief. With both sons away in their youth with Navy and great distance long term absence, they don't even have knowledge of their young Mother's death. And that makes this Home by Nightfall especially poignant. Lady Jane, Charles SO try to help. But it's also a tremendous, IMHO, psychological survey for pulling close family from grief, too. Beyond the cabal of the missing musician in London, and the small town's missing articles and ominous graffiti question that culminates in violence- that underpinning of the surrounding Edmund to get him through was awesome. Victorians all, their emotion is never on their sleeve- but family affection and loyalty may evince itself in numerous other ways.
And this one also had great horses of individual personality and two dogs that were key and also delightful balls of energy at the same time.
Honestly, this series started out decent. It was fun to read, but just there. Now within the last 3, including this book- the series has fully blossomed. Each character seems so close to real and yet quite ordinary people. Believable beyond the depth of the characters you find in mystery novels with historical fiction backgrounds in general. Much beyond. Not parsed to self-involved verbose depiction and/or the snobbery or scathing politico preaching of the moderns either. They don't self analyze but their hearts become revealed. As do the ways they think, judge, act, embrace or not their own cultural traditions and heritages for purpose. Finch just does an excellent people job.
Here he does that within some aspects of barely revealed under characters too. And in a way they you "know" them very quickly.
At just about page 210 or so I guessed the perp for the town's series of events. In particular the stabber, and the why (all those little girl stick drawings probably mean more now than they did in Victorian times)- but I did not figure out the London scandal reveal. Musicians always seem to occupy "special rules" in any society?
Regardless, this book was 4.5 stars. And the balls in the country, a luncheon in which the Queen may show up or not but which had failed sherbet but 3 other Royals- and some dicey new agency progressions for some lively teenage runners and possible "inside" jobs? All of it going on at the same exact time!
Now I think I leave some time before I come back to #10 or beyond. Save it for a cold winter night perhaps.
February 11, 2025
The mysteries in this story were not as compelling or earth shaking as other books in the series. I was sad to see the death of a beloved side character and a member of the Lennox family. The only good thing about it was bringing Charles and his beloved Edmund closer together, helping both brothers to understand the other one better than ever before. The death did give Charles a reason to be in Markethouse, but the author could have found other ways. As usual, Charles ends up needing help from his beloved Jane which was the most enjoyable part of the book, aside from his sweet interactions with little Sophia.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2015
First Sentence: It was a blustery London morning in the autumn of 1876, wind and rain heavy in the trees lining Chancery land, and here, damn it all, stood before Charles Lenox something that nobody should have to tolerate before breakfast
A famous foreign pianist disappears from his dressing room, and Lenox’ detective agency is called in to find him. The pressure is on as a former partner of his firm seems to be hijacking clients and trying to solve this case before him. However, Lenox must leave the case to his partners and spend time with his brother in their childhood home. Things become interesting when a local insurance agent’s home is broken into, odd items in the town start disappearing, and a mysterious, rather disquieting, chalk figure appears in several places.
What a wonderful opening when the author immediately places you into the environment, and introduces you to the primary character with whose emotions one can empathize. The inclusion of the story of the Brontë sisters, is delightful as well as it establishes the time and place.
Finch as created such a fine ensemble of characters, particularly with Lenox’ detective agency, that one becomes involved with them even if one has not read previous books. They are fully dimensional with backstories that are both brief, yet complete.
Yet it’s Finch’s voice that brings you into the story with descriptions, facts, information, emotion and just the right touch of humor. It is style of language—“Lenox had known him for forty years, since he was a swottish, pedantic boy at the village school, and more or less the same look of circumspection had been on hi fact the whole time. He had never in that time evinced any vivacity…”—and the details of the period which make it fascinating. Small details such as one being able to read a newspaper were one not able to afford to buy it, an interesting note on the importance of hats for men, buying a ‘fish slice’ as a wedding gift, and the history of “the Riot Act,” that bring the period to life.
The dialogue has a very natural flow with the language appropriate to the social rank and education of the character with that between Charles and his brother, showing the closeness and east of their relationship—“Edmund, you know my days here are yours.” Edmund nearly smiled. “In that case, I happily transfer ownership of them to Mr. Hadley, at least temporarily—and hope that he will accept mine as well, for I am exceedingly curious about what on earth all of this can mean.” One can also enjoy Lenox’ time with his young daughter.
Lest you are concerned that here is not much mystery to the books, rest assured. Yet Finch’s approach is gentler and encompasses far more than just the crimes, including a wonderful passage of Charles’ musings on those who have passed.
“Home by Nightfall” has a very good plot with more than one case being handled, plenty of questions, twists, and revelations that change the course of the investigations. Each of the cases is brought to very satisfactory conclusions and leaves the reader anxious for the next book.
HOME BY NIGHTFALL (Hist Mys-Charles Lenox-England-Victorian/1876) – VG
Finch, Charles – 9th in series
Minotaur Books – Nov 2015
A famous foreign pianist disappears from his dressing room, and Lenox’ detective agency is called in to find him. The pressure is on as a former partner of his firm seems to be hijacking clients and trying to solve this case before him. However, Lenox must leave the case to his partners and spend time with his brother in their childhood home. Things become interesting when a local insurance agent’s home is broken into, odd items in the town start disappearing, and a mysterious, rather disquieting, chalk figure appears in several places.
What a wonderful opening when the author immediately places you into the environment, and introduces you to the primary character with whose emotions one can empathize. The inclusion of the story of the Brontë sisters, is delightful as well as it establishes the time and place.
Finch as created such a fine ensemble of characters, particularly with Lenox’ detective agency, that one becomes involved with them even if one has not read previous books. They are fully dimensional with backstories that are both brief, yet complete.
Yet it’s Finch’s voice that brings you into the story with descriptions, facts, information, emotion and just the right touch of humor. It is style of language—“Lenox had known him for forty years, since he was a swottish, pedantic boy at the village school, and more or less the same look of circumspection had been on hi fact the whole time. He had never in that time evinced any vivacity…”—and the details of the period which make it fascinating. Small details such as one being able to read a newspaper were one not able to afford to buy it, an interesting note on the importance of hats for men, buying a ‘fish slice’ as a wedding gift, and the history of “the Riot Act,” that bring the period to life.
The dialogue has a very natural flow with the language appropriate to the social rank and education of the character with that between Charles and his brother, showing the closeness and east of their relationship—“Edmund, you know my days here are yours.” Edmund nearly smiled. “In that case, I happily transfer ownership of them to Mr. Hadley, at least temporarily—and hope that he will accept mine as well, for I am exceedingly curious about what on earth all of this can mean.” One can also enjoy Lenox’ time with his young daughter.
Lest you are concerned that here is not much mystery to the books, rest assured. Yet Finch’s approach is gentler and encompasses far more than just the crimes, including a wonderful passage of Charles’ musings on those who have passed.
“Home by Nightfall” has a very good plot with more than one case being handled, plenty of questions, twists, and revelations that change the course of the investigations. Each of the cases is brought to very satisfactory conclusions and leaves the reader anxious for the next book.
HOME BY NIGHTFALL (Hist Mys-Charles Lenox-England-Victorian/1876) – VG
Finch, Charles – 9th in series
Minotaur Books – Nov 2015
October 15, 2015
I've missed about five novels in this series, so there have been quite a few changes in Charles Lenox's situation, but the author is skillful enough for this novel to stand alone without having read the previous entries. And I truly appreciate the way Lenox's character has developed.
I really liked the first novel in this series (A Beautiful Blue Death), but didn't care for the second one as much (The September Society). Now that I've read Home by Nightfall, I want to catch up on the books I've missed.
In 1876, Lenox and his new detective agency are (along with all of London) captivated by the disappearance of a famous pianist. It appears to be a locked room mystery.
At the same time, however, Lenox is worried about his brother Edmund whose wife has recently died. Worried enough that he believes it is more important to return to his childhood home for a while to spend time with Edmund-- even though his business partners are reluctant for him to be absent. Lenox's love for his brother and his childhood reminiscences illustrate such a change from the first two novels I read. Lenox has become a more interesting character with greater depth--which is why I would like to read the novels I've missed that will detail more of Lenox's growth as a character.
While Lenox is staying with Edmund, a village mystery crops up. Edmund becomes intrigued and accompanies Lenox in his investigation; the only times Edmund surfaces from his grief is when attempting to solve the puzzle.
Back in London, the missing German pianist is still all the news, and Lenox's detective agency becomes involved.
As in previous books, Charles Finch evokes a fine image of the time period, both in the country village and in London. Even his minor characters have details that bring them to life. I'm glad to have rediscovered this series!
Blog review scheduled for Oct. 21
NetGalley/St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books
Historical Mystery. Nov. 10. Print length: 304 pages.
I really liked the first novel in this series (A Beautiful Blue Death), but didn't care for the second one as much (The September Society). Now that I've read Home by Nightfall, I want to catch up on the books I've missed.
In 1876, Lenox and his new detective agency are (along with all of London) captivated by the disappearance of a famous pianist. It appears to be a locked room mystery.
At the same time, however, Lenox is worried about his brother Edmund whose wife has recently died. Worried enough that he believes it is more important to return to his childhood home for a while to spend time with Edmund-- even though his business partners are reluctant for him to be absent. Lenox's love for his brother and his childhood reminiscences illustrate such a change from the first two novels I read. Lenox has become a more interesting character with greater depth--which is why I would like to read the novels I've missed that will detail more of Lenox's growth as a character.
While Lenox is staying with Edmund, a village mystery crops up. Edmund becomes intrigued and accompanies Lenox in his investigation; the only times Edmund surfaces from his grief is when attempting to solve the puzzle.
Back in London, the missing German pianist is still all the news, and Lenox's detective agency becomes involved.
As in previous books, Charles Finch evokes a fine image of the time period, both in the country village and in London. Even his minor characters have details that bring them to life. I'm glad to have rediscovered this series!
Blog review scheduled for Oct. 21
NetGalley/St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books
Historical Mystery. Nov. 10. Print length: 304 pages.
October 9, 2016
This was an enjoyable installment in this wonderful series. The story and mysteries through out the book was very gripping with a lot of twists and turns that left me flipping pages until I reached the end of the book. I was so glad, Edmund Lenox, Charles's older brother, played such a big part in this story. I've enjoyed the moments in the other books between the two brothers, so it was a real joy to have a lot of Edmund in this story.
This story left me looking forward to the next installment when it becomes available in the future.
This story left me looking forward to the next installment when it becomes available in the future.
December 16, 2015
Ended with tears of joy. I loved it and can't wait for the next installment in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2022
Charles Lenox finds his attention divided in this ninth entry in the series. All of London is agog at the mystery of the missing musician. Muller, the great German pianist, had disappeared from his dressing room during an intermission in his most recent London performance. He went into the dressing room, apparently drank a glass of wine, and vanished into thin air. There was only one way out of the theatre from the dressing room and he would have had to pass dozens of people backstage to leave. No one saw him. Every detective in London is looking for him--hoping to be the first to find the musician and win the favor of Scotland Yard, the public, and the Queen. Lenox and his partners are hoping to scoop their ex-partner and rival, LeMaire--especially since LeMaire has sunk to the all-time low of stealing their clients.
Additionally, Lenox feels like he needs to accompany his brother, Edward, to the family country seat. Edward has recently lost his wife to a sudden fever and is headed to the country to attend to the estate. Lenox is worried about Edward and doesn't want him to go alone. While they are in Markethouse, a spate of petty thefts occur and Lenox enlists his brother as an assistant detective--thinking that the distraction will do him good. Some of the incidents are accompanied by an odd chalk drawing and the circumstances take a vicious turn when the mayor is attacked with a knife and not expected to live. It isn't long before the two cases provide two murders for the detectives to solve.
I still enjoy Finch's writing and I've become very attached to his characters. I do wish that we had seen more of McConnell, Dallinger, and Lady Jane in this one. It seemed to me that Lenox was spread a bit too thin--trying to solve cases in two different locations and two cases that have nothing to do with one another was a bit much. It was difficult for me to keep my mind on the case most immediate in the narrative and I was constantly wondering when we'd get back to the musician. For all Muller's celebrity, he really got short shrift in this story. A pleasant read, but not Finch's finest.
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting portions of review. Thanks.
Additionally, Lenox feels like he needs to accompany his brother, Edward, to the family country seat. Edward has recently lost his wife to a sudden fever and is headed to the country to attend to the estate. Lenox is worried about Edward and doesn't want him to go alone. While they are in Markethouse, a spate of petty thefts occur and Lenox enlists his brother as an assistant detective--thinking that the distraction will do him good. Some of the incidents are accompanied by an odd chalk drawing and the circumstances take a vicious turn when the mayor is attacked with a knife and not expected to live. It isn't long before the two cases provide two murders for the detectives to solve.
I still enjoy Finch's writing and I've become very attached to his characters. I do wish that we had seen more of McConnell, Dallinger, and Lady Jane in this one. It seemed to me that Lenox was spread a bit too thin--trying to solve cases in two different locations and two cases that have nothing to do with one another was a bit much. It was difficult for me to keep my mind on the case most immediate in the narrative and I was constantly wondering when we'd get back to the musician. For all Muller's celebrity, he really got short shrift in this story. A pleasant read, but not Finch's finest.
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting portions of review. Thanks.
January 3, 2019
Oh. The tears. Darn you Mr. Finch. You made me cry once again [and MORE than once. Smh.]
This was a very good book. You get to see Charles and his brother Edmund together in the country and it was really a lovely story even in the midst of murder and mayhem. But the reasons WHY Charles is there with Edmund are what made me cry and there are just so many moments throughout the story where I was sad as I listened to this story. Even though the mystery was excellent [I had NO idea and then when it was revealed was just not sure how I felt about it all and how it was handled], there is just no way to escape the sadness that weaves itself throughout the book and it makes you hug those you love even closer and makes you think about just what you think is important and what truly isn't important and how we deal with it all.
This is an excellent series and I am very sad that I am getting close to the end. :-(
This was a very good book. You get to see Charles and his brother Edmund together in the country and it was really a lovely story even in the midst of murder and mayhem. But the reasons WHY Charles is there with Edmund are what made me cry and there are just so many moments throughout the story where I was sad as I listened to this story. Even though the mystery was excellent [I had NO idea and then when it was revealed was just not sure how I felt about it all and how it was handled], there is just no way to escape the sadness that weaves itself throughout the book and it makes you hug those you love even closer and makes you think about just what you think is important and what truly isn't important and how we deal with it all.
This is an excellent series and I am very sad that I am getting close to the end. :-(
September 3, 2024
A fabulous double mystery with some great factoids about 1870s England, clever turns, and two real LOLs
February 8, 2016
I'm not really sure what to say about this book, I had hoped for more and I came away a tad bit disappointed. There were distractions that took away from what began as the main story line.
A German actor/musician walks off stage in the middle of a performance and disappears and for some reason Charles' competitor, LeMaine, is requested to help the police in their inquiry.
LeMaine is siphoning off Charles' private clients, via a spy in the agency.
Charler's brother Edmund's wife Molly dies so Charles goes to stay in the family home w/ Edmund; whereupon a businessman in the town sees a ghostly figure in his home and a bottle of sherry goes missing. The mayor is found dead and the only clue is a stick-figure drawing of a little girl found on the businessman;s porch and the dead Mayor's office wall.
Charles' wife Jane & family friend Toto are having a charity luncheon for a hospital, the "Royals" are included, but word has it HRH Victoria (uninvited) may or may not show up... Oh lord what do we do?
A woman, known as the sister of the German musician is found dead in the attic space of his dressing room......
Although the mysteries ended with a satisfying conclusion, they were disjointed and didn't come together as well as one would have liked.
A German actor/musician walks off stage in the middle of a performance and disappears and for some reason Charles' competitor, LeMaine, is requested to help the police in their inquiry.
LeMaine is siphoning off Charles' private clients, via a spy in the agency.
Charler's brother Edmund's wife Molly dies so Charles goes to stay in the family home w/ Edmund; whereupon a businessman in the town sees a ghostly figure in his home and a bottle of sherry goes missing. The mayor is found dead and the only clue is a stick-figure drawing of a little girl found on the businessman;s porch and the dead Mayor's office wall.
Charles' wife Jane & family friend Toto are having a charity luncheon for a hospital, the "Royals" are included, but word has it HRH Victoria (uninvited) may or may not show up... Oh lord what do we do?
A woman, known as the sister of the German musician is found dead in the attic space of his dressing room......
Although the mysteries ended with a satisfying conclusion, they were disjointed and didn't come together as well as one would have liked.
January 1, 2017
This series has been sort of like riding a roller coaster for me. It's had its ups & downs. When I first started reading it, I loved it. Then when Charles Lenox started working in the Parliament I didn't like it all. Now that he's left Parliament and has his own detective agency, I love it again. I'm extremely glad that the author decided to go that route so Charles can freely detect again because the whole Parliament thing was tedious and boring!!
In this book, Charles' brother Edward, goes through some major life changes so I'm curious to see what happens with him next. He's always enjoyed detecting with Charles so maybe he'll leave Parliament and start dabbling in detecting too. You never know... : )
*I received this ARC from Minotaur Books and Goodreads Firstreads in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
In this book, Charles' brother Edward, goes through some major life changes so I'm curious to see what happens with him next. He's always enjoyed detecting with Charles so maybe he'll leave Parliament and start dabbling in detecting too. You never know... : )
*I received this ARC from Minotaur Books and Goodreads Firstreads in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
December 24, 2015
Most of the time a series will become a bit less as time goes by and the number of volumes mount up. In this case, I believe it may be the strongest book yet. I love the period detail and historical nuance. I love the humanity and warmth with which the characters are drawn. The mysteries are engrossing and satisfactorily untangled. Without giving too much away, I will say one scenario near the end seemed awkward and not completely plausible but it served to provide enlightenment that was important to the story. I don't see how this could have been easily achieved any other way. All in all, this could be my favorite in the series so far. If you are a fan of this author and this series you will not be disappointed by this installment.
November 28, 2015
Each time I pick up another Charles Finch book I am more impressed with his style and great story telling ability. This newest entry in the Charles Lenox mystery series is, I think, the best so far. He keeps an even pace, pulling the reader along with each intriguing clue. Woven into the mystery are the wonderful characters who are developed slowly and carefully. This book featured Lenox and his brother Edmund sleuthing together. But the subtle backstory was about Edmund's sadness over his wife's death and his slow climb back to life. Beautifully crafted and written!
December 13, 2015
I felt a bit more emotion on Charles' part than in previous books in this series. Lots of kindness and outstretched hands to fellow townspeople who may not have fared as well in life's journey as Charles and his brother Edmund. And, because the world is changing, an awareness of women and the problems they face both at home and at work.
Written, as always, with elegance and wit, and a caring that comes through both the dialogue and the descriptive passages.
Thank you, Charles Finch - I loved this book!
Written, as always, with elegance and wit, and a caring that comes through both the dialogue and the descriptive passages.
Thank you, Charles Finch - I loved this book!
March 27, 2020
Enjoyed this a lot. A bit of a Sherlock Holmes feel about it. I’ll be looking for some others in the series.
November 13, 2018
(4.5 stars) I'm an on-again/off-again reader of the Charles Lenox Victorian mystery series and I'm so glad I was on-again for this one because it may well be my favorite so far.
Mr. Charles Lenox, younger brother of Sir Edmund Lenox, is no longer a member of Parliament and is dedicating his time to his private investigation agency which he has formed with several friends and associates. Yes, he's an upper-class man involved in trade (shudder!) but his marriage to aristocratic wife Lady Jane keeps him an acceptable member of the "ton".
As this story begins, it's 1876, Lenox's brother Edmund is mourning the recent death of his wife Molly and London is all atwitter over the mysterious disappearance of a famous German pianist after his last performance at a London theatre. Naturally Lenox is pulled to the mystery of how on earth Muller, the pianist, managed to disappear into thin air, as it were, but he's also feeling the need to go down to Sussex and give companionship to his brother, whose two sons are off living their own lives, one in Kenya and one in the Royal Navy, and haven't yet received the news about their mother's sudden illness and death.
Well, family trumps business so Lenox finds himself in Sussex in the quiet town of his childhood, Marketplace. As luck would have it for Charles, who loves a good mystery, there are strange things aplenty happening right in Marketplace and he is hired by one of the victims to investigate the inexplicable occurrences at his house. An added bonus of getting involved in this is that Edmund is diverted by the investigation and this helps take his mind off his loss at times.
Yet there is that mystery in London which still puzzles Lenox. He keeps abreast of it from afar through telegrams and newspaper clippings from wife Jane and through one short trip to London. The puzzle of the pianist and the strange Sussex happenings are both excellent brainteasers for Charles and for his reader fans.
And, of course, the reader gets the added pleasure of little tidbits of life in Victorian England. One of my favorites this time was the info about "slap-bangs", which sound a bit like our equivalent of a fast food restaurant. The slap-bang offers the customer an inexpensive and speedy meal and got its name from the sound made by waiters slapping the plates down quickly onto the table. There are more such little details of the 1870s to learn here but that one stuck with me to remember as I'm writing this review.
So, in summary, I found this to be a very good entry in the mystery series. I enjoyed meeting up with old friends and some old antagonists and the author Charles Finch has treated his readers to a "slap-up" mystery, well, mysteries to be precise. I may have become a more on-again than off-again reader of the Lenox books now.
Mr. Charles Lenox, younger brother of Sir Edmund Lenox, is no longer a member of Parliament and is dedicating his time to his private investigation agency which he has formed with several friends and associates. Yes, he's an upper-class man involved in trade (shudder!) but his marriage to aristocratic wife Lady Jane keeps him an acceptable member of the "ton".
As this story begins, it's 1876, Lenox's brother Edmund is mourning the recent death of his wife Molly and London is all atwitter over the mysterious disappearance of a famous German pianist after his last performance at a London theatre. Naturally Lenox is pulled to the mystery of how on earth Muller, the pianist, managed to disappear into thin air, as it were, but he's also feeling the need to go down to Sussex and give companionship to his brother, whose two sons are off living their own lives, one in Kenya and one in the Royal Navy, and haven't yet received the news about their mother's sudden illness and death.
Well, family trumps business so Lenox finds himself in Sussex in the quiet town of his childhood, Marketplace. As luck would have it for Charles, who loves a good mystery, there are strange things aplenty happening right in Marketplace and he is hired by one of the victims to investigate the inexplicable occurrences at his house. An added bonus of getting involved in this is that Edmund is diverted by the investigation and this helps take his mind off his loss at times.
Yet there is that mystery in London which still puzzles Lenox. He keeps abreast of it from afar through telegrams and newspaper clippings from wife Jane and through one short trip to London. The puzzle of the pianist and the strange Sussex happenings are both excellent brainteasers for Charles and for his reader fans.
And, of course, the reader gets the added pleasure of little tidbits of life in Victorian England. One of my favorites this time was the info about "slap-bangs", which sound a bit like our equivalent of a fast food restaurant. The slap-bang offers the customer an inexpensive and speedy meal and got its name from the sound made by waiters slapping the plates down quickly onto the table. There are more such little details of the 1870s to learn here but that one stuck with me to remember as I'm writing this review.
So, in summary, I found this to be a very good entry in the mystery series. I enjoyed meeting up with old friends and some old antagonists and the author Charles Finch has treated his readers to a "slap-up" mystery, well, mysteries to be precise. I may have become a more on-again than off-again reader of the Lenox books now.
August 8, 2017
In book nine, "Home by Nightfall" again we find that Charles Lenox is working on two separate mysteries . The London-based detective agency he now runs with his Lord John Dallington and the astute Polly Buchanan (aka Miss Strickland) is getting on firmer financial ground with a steady caseload. However there is a malevolent enemy still working to destroy the agency of Lenox, Dallington, and Strickland.
A sensational case involving a missing German pianist has London abuzz and the firm is racing to find the pianist before LeMaire, their former partner, does. Since Polly and Dallingotn seem to have the investigation well in hand, Charles has accompanied his brother Edmund to their family estate, Lenox house. Charles is concerned about his brother following the sudden death of Edmund’s wife Molly. Although she was mostly a peripheral character in the story, Molly was a wonderful presence and it’s so sad that she is now gone and her storyline has ended. It is while the brothers attend a local event that Charles becomes embroiled in the mystery of MarketHouse. With Edmund’s help, the brothers investigates a murder together.
It is so touching how much these brothers love and support each other. I could feel Edmund's pain and the unconditional compassion Charles give to his grieving brother is inspiring. It was wonderful to see them working together, traipsing all over town, tracking down clues to a potential assault and a murder.
During this time Charles made the occasional quick trip to London to help his colleagues track down the elusive pianist and Charles uncovers another possible murder.
Graham made a brief appearance and it looks like Lenox's former butler now MP has found love. I was thrilled when Graham wanted to consult with Charles about entering into the "estate of marriage." I am so happy for Graham and hope that this wonderful man is convinced to propose to the woman he has fallen in love with.
As for the ladies, I was excited when lady Jane and Toto played a small but critical role in standing up for other women who were not in their same social class. I wanted to stand up and cheer when Toto vehemently challenged Charles in order to protect a traumatized young woman. It was wonderful to see all the women, regardless of social status, close rank to protect a young woman in trouble.
Sigh. One more book then I have to wait until next year for the next Charles Lenox book. It somewhat of a comfort that I have already pre-ordered book 11, "The Lady in the Water."
A sensational case involving a missing German pianist has London abuzz and the firm is racing to find the pianist before LeMaire, their former partner, does. Since Polly and Dallingotn seem to have the investigation well in hand, Charles has accompanied his brother Edmund to their family estate, Lenox house. Charles is concerned about his brother following the sudden death of Edmund’s wife Molly. Although she was mostly a peripheral character in the story, Molly was a wonderful presence and it’s so sad that she is now gone and her storyline has ended. It is while the brothers attend a local event that Charles becomes embroiled in the mystery of MarketHouse. With Edmund’s help, the brothers investigates a murder together.
It is so touching how much these brothers love and support each other. I could feel Edmund's pain and the unconditional compassion Charles give to his grieving brother is inspiring. It was wonderful to see them working together, traipsing all over town, tracking down clues to a potential assault and a murder.
During this time Charles made the occasional quick trip to London to help his colleagues track down the elusive pianist and Charles uncovers another possible murder.
Graham made a brief appearance and it looks like Lenox's former butler now MP has found love. I was thrilled when Graham wanted to consult with Charles about entering into the "estate of marriage." I am so happy for Graham and hope that this wonderful man is convinced to propose to the woman he has fallen in love with.
As for the ladies, I was excited when lady Jane and Toto played a small but critical role in standing up for other women who were not in their same social class. I wanted to stand up and cheer when Toto vehemently challenged Charles in order to protect a traumatized young woman. It was wonderful to see all the women, regardless of social status, close rank to protect a young woman in trouble.
Sigh. One more book then I have to wait until next year for the next Charles Lenox book. It somewhat of a comfort that I have already pre-ordered book 11, "The Lady in the Water."
October 15, 2023
This addition to the series is almost perfect. It's 1876 in London and the disappearance of the famous German pianist Muller from a locked room during a break in his concert, has the city abuzz and Scotland Yard and Lennox's detective agency chasing every clue. In the midst of the investigation Charles has to travel down to Sussex to help his grieving brother Edmund deal with a disturbing series of small thefts and odd occurrences in his boyhood home of Markethouse. He also wants to help Edmund cope with the sudden death of his beloved wife Molly. The brother's relationship takes center stage and the two of them work together to solve the "country" mystery while Polly and Darlington work on the "town" mystery with frequent telegrams to Lennox. Finch is a master plotter and it's extremely satisfying to see major life changes happen to many of the secondary characters. we have come to enjoy and care for. Finch captures village life as well as he does the bustle of London and his comic sketches of country folk are charming and droll.
I learn so much reading these books - this time the start of the term "reading the riot act". In 1714 King George the first, a Hanoverian, was nervous the the Stuarts were going to from mobs and depose him, so the government passed a law, if any 12 people or more people were engaged in "tumultuous activity", a magistrate could stand up and formally demand their dispersal by reading it out loud. If they hadn't separated an hour after the magistrate's proclamation, they could be arrested. The law the magistrate had to read was the Riot Act. I absolutely love these historical mysteries.
I learn so much reading these books - this time the start of the term "reading the riot act". In 1714 King George the first, a Hanoverian, was nervous the the Stuarts were going to from mobs and depose him, so the government passed a law, if any 12 people or more people were engaged in "tumultuous activity", a magistrate could stand up and formally demand their dispersal by reading it out loud. If they hadn't separated an hour after the magistrate's proclamation, they could be arrested. The law the magistrate had to read was the Riot Act. I absolutely love these historical mysteries.
February 24, 2018
I was excited to be reading an English mystery, but that excitement quickly disappeared, and loathing entered the story. Charles Finch attempts to impress with eloquent language, but he missteps in his grammar during this endeavor. I spent too much time rereading sentences to figure the writer's intention and lost all enjoyment of the story. The story seems to have left my memory immediately after the final chapter. Nothing in the story remains to ponder. The journey into the English countryside provoked nothing but ennui.
April 16, 2017
I am working my way through the Lenox series and skipped from book #6 to this book, #9. It works well as a stand-alone mystery and is a compelling page-turner. The writing noticebly developed during the books I skipped to create the feeling of suspense throughout the book, with cliff hangers at the end of most chapters. I found myself not wanting to put it down.
January 13, 2023
This episode features the Lenox brothers in the English countryside investigating a series of crimes in the village proximate to Lenox Hall. Charles Finch does a more than credible job describing rural England, village life and a range of quirky local characters. Crimes are, of course, involved in the story including murder and the more serious offense of stealing a man’s horse.
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