A Whisper in Darkness

Raven & Wren #6

by Darcy Burke

A Victorian historical mystery with paranormal intrigue, featuring London’s most tenacious private detective, a missing heiress, a ransom note signed by the legendary Spring-Heeled Jack, and a secret courtship that refuses to stay out of the investigation.

Private detective Matilda Wren’s latest case seems straightforward: find a missing heiress. Except, the ransom note bears a chilling signature—that of Spring-Heeled Jack. This supposed supernatural figure with his glowing eyes, fiery breath, and power to leap great heights has frightened the young women of London for decades. But Tilda doesn’t believe in fairy tales and vows to unmask the villain.

To solve the crime, Tilda once again calls on Hadrian Becket, Earl of Ravenhurst, whose ability to see people’s memories will undoubtedly prove indispensable to the investigation. Their relationship has recently deepened, but Tilda is determined not to let their secret courtship distract her from hunting the kidnapper.

When another young woman is found murdered, the legendary demon is blamed, and Tilda and Hadrian fear the worst for their abducted heiress. As Jack’s reign of terror escalates, Tilda and Hadrian must determine if their quarry is a cunning criminal hiding behind legend, or has something far more sinister emerged from the darkness?

Atmospheric and gripping, A Whisper in Darkness is a Victorian mystery for readers who love a razor-sharp detective heroine, a paranormal edge that keeps you guessing, and a slow-burn partnership deepening into something neither partner can ignore.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Mystery, Historical, Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Paranormal Romance, Paranormal

406 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 21, 2026

About the author

Darcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her Reader Club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub.

A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.

Reviews

[Cassandra]

Our mystery starts and ends with a bang! Our couple is officially courting but secretly at the same time. I am so happy they are on the same page now in their personal life. This mystery was complex and sad. There were betrayals, alliances, and pyrotechnics. Of course, my favorite part is cast of all the characters around them, especially Tilda. Her grandmother and those that help run her household are so loving and caring. I love her butler.

That ending! It feels criminal in more ways than one. I can't wait to read the next in the series.

5/6 stars

[Mel D]

Stuck between 3 and 4 and went with 4 because I absolutely loved this book and I love this series. That being said I struggled with the constant mentioning of and hesitation from Tilda. I would’ve preferred keeping the maybe feelings to a minimum - maybe dwell for one night instead of that being the main plot (or what felt like the main plot) for the first half of the book.

[Sandra]

Kidnap, intrigue & courtship!
The sleuthing duo are on the case again in one of the more engaging crimes I've come across in the series so far.  A WHISPER IN DARKNESS embroils the pair in kidnap clashed with a real life Victorian boogeyman: Spring-heeled Jack as the hunt is on as reputations take a battering.
This one really hooked me in as we follow each thread that unravelled, unpicked those elusive tangles and gnawed at the knots of disquiet, torment, grievous threat and confounding intrigue, the pair are faced with, to expose the just always out of reach culprit at large.
Really enjoyed the mystery we became enveloped in here it was engaging and acted as a foil to see if Hadrian & Tilda's secret courtship could withstand the struggles between selfworth and the real inevitably of what a cross class divide romance would mean not just on a personal level but in jeopardy to her beloved vocation.
I've been dipping in and out of this series and enjoyed the familiar comfort of the host of sidecharacters that add colour, charm and depth to enrich the tale. Finding Hadrian and Tilda embarking on a secret courtship, while struggling to keep their partnership on a strictly business level only was a nice surprise. I would love to see more passion infused into their slow burn love affair in the stolen moments together, but the easiness of the love they share accompanied by the the wit and complementary equal partnership they have developed holds a sweetness in the comfort and chemistry that continues to radiate from them.
Intrigued to see if those loose ends can be tied up here and if marriage is on the cards for this intrepid pair. Compelling addition to this sleuthing series! An enjoyable read!

~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~

[Heather Moll]

Best for fans who are already attached to Hadrian and Tilda, but it’s not like a newcomer couldn’t get caught up. Tilda, the younger, poorer woman, is the brains and Hadrian, the golden retriever earl, just wants to be involved. I like the supporting cast more and more. It’d be nice if the courting couple had some conversations NOT about their case or the state of their relationship. What draws them together aside from their shared secret? How would they spend five minutes together alone not discussing a case? I’d like to see a little more depth.

This mystery had slightly higher stakes than the early books, which I liked. Sections where Tilda or Hadrian recounted events, or we were told about them, or Tilda looped around in her head about marrying or not dragged, but the mystery was good. I’m very excited by the prospect of a villain’s return and how Hadrian answers Tilda’s question.

I received an arc from BookSprout

[Maryann (Mae)]

This author composes a very intricate storyline with all of the Raven and Wren books. Once again, this installment does not disappoint. The draw to the very first book was most definitely the setting and the compelling storyline. Now I've become invested in the development of the relationship between the two characters.

Having the "psychic" twist makes it all the more interesting for me.

I will continue to follow these two and hope at some point that Teague is made aware of the Earl's ability.

[Michelle]

Legend come to life?

While I did enjoy this story I also think it dragged things out a bit. I mean I do understand that crimes are not solved in an hour like they show on tv but when I’m reading I really don’t need to read them spinning their wheels and rehashing things over and over and getting nowhere. That being said the plot was quite clever and the twists were suitably twisty. Very very happy about the last bit between Hadrian and Tilda I certainly hope that’s not a tease ending. I enjoyed meeting Hadrian’s sister and her oblivious and tactless husband. Oy vey talk about misreading the room lol. The historical legend of Spring heeled Jack as the villain was intriguing especially as they peeked behind the curtain wink wink. Very excited to read the next chapter for our intrepid pair of investigators!

[Jeannine]

I tore through the first four books when I found this series, but the writing has become a little clunky. It doesn’t hold my attention.

[ROBYN K. HIGHBARGER]

I loved this book but I just love this series!! Almost 4 stars sadly because of the continual comments about maybe maybe from Tilda. I’ll leave it at that. Overall, I can’t wait for more!

[Steph N]

Another entertaining book in this series. The kidnapping case Tilda & Hadrian take on in this story is a real page-turner. I wouldn’t have guessed their agreement to secretly court could be overshadowed by an investigation, but it really is. So much going on in this one. While they’re on the clock, facing a creepy perpetrator, encountering investigative road blocks, & facing bad publicity, they still manage to maintain a true & caring partnership.
After reading the last chapter, I can’t wait for the next book! Thanks to the author for allowing me to read an advance copy via Booksprout.

[Nan]

Again, Tilda’s main investigative technique is to have Hadrian touch stuff and then boss him around when he does is getting a little old. The latter part of the book was better and this is a 3.5 rounded down. One of the better in the series in balance…but if this partnership is going to progress then Wren needs to be more careful and conflating care and nagging. And Raven needs to stop conflating his affection with clinginess. In their way they are both nagging each other. The relationship is sometimes overshadowing the crime solving aspects of these books.

[Bonnie]

Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is book 6 in the series and Tilda Wren is developing a growing reputation as a private investigator, enough so that she is engaged by a wealthy family to find their kidnapped daughter, purported to have been kidnapped from her bed at night by a varlet calling himself Spring Heeled Jack, alluding to a series of sensational attacks and appearances from a previous generation. Hadrian, Earl of Ravenhurst, continues to be her dedicated partner, using his hidden powers, and his own growing talent for deduction. But also hoping, now that they are secretly courting, that Tilda will consider seriously expanding their partnership, to become his countess.

This investigation takes an unfortunate turn when Tilda and Hadrian's plans to waylay the kidnapper at the drop-off are stymied by the father of the girl, and they discover her death in the aftermath. The distraught family places the blame on Tilda, and work to destroy her reputation. Tilda, distressed herself by the events and her failure to save the young woman, is determined to continue the investigation, especially when they discover that another girl has been taken. Working with Hadrian, and his brave and dedicated staff, and their growing friends at the police, they seek more information about the new Spring Heeled Jack, and why he has now turned to kidnapping and killing young women.

But now Tilda and Hadrian's personal relationship bleeds into their investigations. Tilda worries that this could all be interfering with her professionalism and perspective, and is concerned about her fitness to be a countess, as well as the loss of her freedom to persue her own interests. Hadrian cannot stop himself from showing his affection for Tilda, and hopes to progress their relationship but leery about pushing Tilda too hard. He also does enjoy working with her, and is always eager to aid, even at risk for himself as the use of his powers can render him ill. Those powers are still a secret shared by a very few, but the effects are being noted more by others as he uses them more to aid their investigations.

The mystery at the heart of this story was a good, compelling read, especially with Tilda caught up in a situation where her professionalism and effectiveness is being attacked. They continued doggedly to investigate, and work with their various factions, including the loyal and bravely dedicated driver, Loach, and their growing cadre of professional friends. But I love how the progression of Tilda and Hadrian's relationship progresses as well, blurring the professional and personal, despite Tilda initially wanting to keep the two separate. I absolutely love how the story ends - and cannot wait for the next book to see how things grow between them, and thier circle.

4.75 stars out of 5

[Slwd]

The Earl and the Lady Detective

“A Whisper in Darkness” is book six of the Raven and Wren series written by Darcy Burke. This has been such an intriguing series, this book included. This story is full of kidnappings and murder, twists and turns that made it difficult to put down. Who was the perpetrator? I was as eager to find out as the intrepid detectives who lead the action in the story. Hadrian’s visions are useful and necessary but they cause him much discomfort. It is great to see Tilda take the lead with his aftercare and insistence when Hadrian needs to refrain from overtaxing from the process. Their love for each other showed through in so many small ways, it made me like the characters all the more. It is wonderful that they have grown and changed over the course of the series. The story in this one was so well done. The inclusion of a real life bogeyman in the nineteenth century was especially creative. Since the story followed the investigation of several crimes, the pacing worked. It moved along as quickly as it could during a time of no phones, faxes, or computers to rely on. It relied on a lot of legwork and asking tons of questions, both of which Tilda Wren is superbly skilled. I’ve always appreciated that Hadrian respects Tilda and the work she does. I also appreciate that he is learning from her. Of course the story wouldn’t be complete without the metropolitan police and Teague as Raven and Wren’s contact. Teague also respects Tilda’s abilities as a detective at a time when women didn’t engage in such a business. I’m glad Tilda has such staunch supporters. Anyway, it goes without saying that I highly recommend Raven and Wren. It is such a strong, well written historical detective series with an excellent cast of characters. This could be read as a standalone, but starting from the beginning allows the reader to experience this couple’s beginning, Hadrian’s gift, and the interesting cases these two detectives have worked on together. I can’t wait to see what lies in store for Hadrian and Tilda in the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

[Fanosse23]

A Whisper in Darkness is the newest entry in the Raven & Wren Mystery series, and I am completely hooked! I thought I had already crowned a favorite in this series, but every new installment seems to outshine the last. This one had me flipping pages late into the night, unwilling to tear myself away.

In this story, private investigator Matilda “Tilda” Wren and Hadrian, the Earl of Ravenhurst, are tasked with finding missing heiress Delia Chadwick. What begins as a seemingly straightforward case spirals into something much darker. The kidnapper is invoking the terrifying name of “Spring-heeled Jack,” a figure from the past who terrorized young women thirty years ago and was never caught.

When the search for Delia takes a devastating turn, Tilda is blamed by the distraught father. True to her unshakable professionalism, she refuses to give up. Teaming up with Hadrian, who uses his uncanny ability to see fragments of people’s memories—even as it begins to take a toll on him—they dive headfirst into a race against time. Their secret romance simmers in the background, adding warmth and tenderness amid the mounting suspense and danger.

Darcy Burke delivers all the elements that make a mystery irresistible: intricate plotting, compelling characters, tantalizing secrets, and unexpected twists. The creeping menace of Spring-heeled Jack kept me on edge, and the combination of personal stakes and criminal intrigue made this impossible to put down.

The story closes with a case that is technically solved, but the true mastermind remains at large—and the final reveal is a delicious bombshell that left me breathless. I’m eagerly waiting for the next installment to see where Tilda and Hadrian’s journey takes them, both in love and in peril. If you love historical mysteries with a touch of romance and a thrill of danger, this series is a must-read.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Nanna]

Wow, Darcy has out done herself with this book. I have read a ton of her stories and series and loved them all. But Tilda and Hadrian may be my favorite ones so far. I think part of that is because their lives past and present are so different, Hadrian is the Earl of Ravenhurst and Tilda is the daughter of a detective and a private investigator herself. She has worked hard to gain respect after solving a number of cases. She works hard to provide for her unusual household and grandmother. She is hired to find a kidnapped young Lady for a Hugh amount and enlist Hadrian's help with his second sight. He can see things from the past by touching items. When she makes the decision to bring in their friend and detective Teague from Scotland yard into help everything goes wrong and the father of young lady blames Tilda. The kidnapper is using a name from the past “Spring Heeled Jack” who terrorized ladies thirty years ago and was never caught. So much going on in this story, with more ladies being kidnapped, trying find out more about how Jack can do what he does, and why show up after all this time. Our team is also dealing with their new courtship and having let each other know how they feel about the other. She is very much in love with Hadrian but worries about what society will say and the loss of her independence and work. Hadrian wants a life with her but knows she has fears about being a duchess. Wow, so many twists and turns and ups and downs! Once you get started, you will not be able to stop. The ending is amazing in more ways than one. Also, a surprise you will not see coming. Run, grab a copy and get lost in this great story! I can’t wait to see what the next book will show. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my long but honest opinion, and I am freely giving it.

[Mia Cavaco]

I absolutely loved this book — Darcy Burke delivers another gripping, atmospheric, and emotionally charged installment in the Raven & Wren series. Book Six raises the stakes in a way that feels both fresh and deeply connected to the world Burke has been building from the start.

This time, Raven and Wren are pulled into a chilling mystery involving the kidnapping of young women in town — disappearances that echo a pattern from thirty years ago, when a terrifying figure left a trail of fear and unanswered questions. When a new murder shocks the community, it becomes clear that the past isn’t just repeating itself… it’s bleeding directly into the present.

Burke masterfully weaves the investigation through layers of old secrets, buried trauma, and magical undercurrents that Raven and Wren are uniquely equipped to unravel. Every clue they uncover tightens the tension, and the eerie parallels between the decades‑old case and the current crimes give the story a haunting, propulsive energy. The way the past and present collide is one of the most satisfying elements of the book — it’s clever, emotional, and beautifully paced.

As always, Raven and Wren shine. Their chemistry, their banter, and their fierce loyalty to each other make the darker moments hit even harder. The returning cast adds warmth and depth, while the new revelations expand the mythology of the series in all the right ways.

This book has everything I love about the Raven & Wren world: sharp dialogue, emotional stakes, a twisty mystery, and that addictive blend of magic and danger that keeps you turning pages long after you meant to stop. Darcy Burke is at the top of her game, and Book Six proves this series just keeps getting better.

I can’t wait for the next one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lorena]

A Whisper in Darkness is the sixth novel in Darcy Burke’s Raven & Wren series of Victorian mysteries with an extremely slow-burn romance and just a hint of the paranormal. Enough background is provided that this book could be enjoyed on its own, but the series is best enjoyed in order. Be aware that, although I wouldn’t call the ending a cliffhanger, some plot threads remain unresolved.

At the start of this story, private investigator Matilda Wren is hired to find a missing heiress. The missing girl’s family received a ransom note signed by the legendary Spring-Heeled Jack (a real entity from English history and folklore). As usual, Hadrian Becket, Earl of Ravenhurst, is eager to assist Tilda with her investigation, while also attempting to court her. If you’ve read any of the previous books in the series, you won’t be surprised to learn that there are plot twists, plenty of danger, and a body count.

The story is told from Tilda and Hadrian’s dual points of view. They are both good people, generous, smart, resourceful, and brave. I love seeing them work together to solve the mysteries, as well as watching Tilda and Hadrian’s relationship continue to evolve. I loved seeing Hadrian continue to interact with Tilda’s household, and watching Tilda start to interact more with Hadrian’s household and family.

This is a fast-paced and suspenseful read. I love how Burke incorporated real facts from the Spring-Heeled Jack legend, while making the legend fit perfectly in Tilda & Hadrian’s world (as explained in her Author’s Note). I look forward to reading the next Raven & Wren mystery, and I recommend the series to fans of historical mysteries.

Note that this book includes mild swearing, kidnapping, and murder, although nothing too graphic.

I received a free ARC of this book from the author via BookFunnel; I volunteered to provide an honest review.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis]

4.7 stars
We have Miss Matilda Wren, and her partner in solving crimes, Hadrian Becket, the Earl of Ravenhurst who, after a near death experience, suffers visions that make him see past events!
This story was the most perplexing yet and ends on a Cliffhanger.
The clues are tangled and the people involved are arrogant and do not follow instructions well at all. When a young lady is abducted Tilda is urged not to involve the police. She does thinking this will be a somewhat simple case but there were dire consequences!
There follow two more abductions that follow a different pattern! The third is most definitely revenge! Because of the consequences of the first abduction the grieving father drags Tilda’s name in the newspapers! This definitely would make it much harder to earn an income to support her growing household!
I value independence greatly but some opposition that Tilda names are her own insecurities! Her self worth was really challenged when the other two young ladies were found!
The culprits pretend to emulate Spring-healed Jack but carry out far more nefarious deeds than he did more than 30 years prior!
I was hoping that something gave Tilda the reassurance that she was a good “lady detective!” But she also could be so much more! She and Hadrian had confessed their love and it really was so simple from there! People will always have opinions and expectations but it is up to you on how you allow the influence on your life!
There is an explosion that I believe this gave Tilda at hard look at reality! This on the heels of a visit from Hadrian’s mother was the final catalyst! Hold to your seat because there was nonstop adventure! There are several loose ends to still tie up! Bravo!
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased opinion from Booksprout!

[Cathy Geha]

A Whisper in Darkness by Darcy Burke
Raven & Wren #6

~ Raven & Wren juggle the search for a murderous kidnapper while secretly courting ~ Excellent addition to the series ~

What I liked:
* Miss Matilda “Tilda” Wren: mid-twenties, lives with her grandmother, father was a detective, caring, responsible, frugal, inquisitive, bright, capable, attracted to Hadrian, conflicted, makes a big decision at the end of this book
* Hadrian Becket, Earl of Ravenhurst: early-thirties, wealthy, paranormal psychometry ability post near-death experience, assists Tilda in some of her investigations, in love with Tilda and wants to marry her
* Watching the slow-burn relationship as it develops between Hadrian & Tilda
* Following the clues with Tilda & Hadrian as they worked to solve the case and learning what motivated the crimes
* That the writing felt “of the period” as did the characters dialogue and behavior
* DI Teague and Sgt Wycombe: their acceptance of Raven & Wren as capable investigators and their willingness to work with them
* Learning about the myth of Spring-heeled Jack and how it played a part in this mystery
* The supporting characters that I look for from previous books
* Getting to know more about both main characters and their families
* The question Tilda asked Hadrian at the end of the book

What I didn’t like:
* Thinking about kidnapping, murder, revenge, and the impact it has on those involved
* The callousness of more than one character
* Thinking about the social divisions in this era and the impact it had on so many aspects of life

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Definitely

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

[Marion Löw]

A Captivating New Installment

I thoroughly enjoyed Raven and Wren’s newest adventure. It’s a fast-paced, gripping sleuth mystery mixed with a slow-burning romance, and full of suspense, twists and turns, action, myth, and danger. Tilda and Raven are in the courtship phase, but Tilda is still undecided due to their class disparity and her desire to maintain her independence and follow her calling. Raven is the perfect gentleman and a total sweetheart who supports and loves her. Their relationship continues to progress in this book as well. I love their partnership and how they care for one another.
The book ends with a cliffhanger that continues into the next book.

Tilda and Raven's new assignment is to find a missing young woman who is believed to have been kidnapped by Spring-Heeled Jack, a legendary figure who terrorized young women thirty years ago.
When Tilda calls the police, defying the kidnapper’s demands and the young woman’s parents’ wishes, the situation escalates and the kidnapping victim is found dead. The enraged, grieving father leaves no stone unturned in his efforts to destroy Tilda’s reputation and career. When more young women disappear shortly thereafter, Tilda and Raven are determined to help the police with the investigation on their own, even though Raven is pushing his physical limits with his supernatural powers, they both have to put their private courtship on hold, and they make a new dangerous enemy who is out for revenge…

All in all l, a captivating sleuth mystery with endearing protagonists, full of emotions, suspense, twists and a gradually deepening romance, which I am happy to recommend!

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Charmaine Fernando]

Oh, my goodness, the Raven and Wren series keeps getting better with each book! Miss Matilda “Tilda” Wren and her charming / handsome sidekick, Lord Hadrian Becket, the Earl of Ravenhurst work together as a team to solve crimes one at a time. This time, they are hired to locate a missing heiress, Miss Delia Chadwick who has been kidnapped. The kidnappers sent the family a ransom note indicating they no police should be contacted whatsoever or risk having their daughter killed. The ransom amount is twenty thousand pounds for her safe return. While consulting with Miss Chadwick’s father, a second ransom note is delivered at which point Tilda decides to involve Chief Inspector Teague of Scotland Yard in their scheme to secure Miss Chadwick’s safe return.

Things go horribly wrong and Delia is killed. Her father is so angry at the outcome that he blames everything on Tilda. Following this unfortunate incident, a second victim is kidnapped with the initial note and ransom demand being the same. I was so engrossed and desperate to find out who the perpetrator was that I found myself reading well into the night on more than one occasion! Added to the investigation and thrilling aspect of the story was the fact that Tilda and Hadrian’s relationship was heating up with more displays of affection, albeit in the privacy of Hadrian’s coach.

I wait on tenterhooks for the final instalment in the Raven and Wren series. I will be sorry to see the series end, however, maybe Ms Burke can continue the series with the Countess and Earl of Ravenhurst offering their skills to Scotland Yard / private clients.

I would recommend this book and the series. I received and ARC from Miss Burke and Booksprout with my thanks and submit my honest review voluntarily.

[Roxanne Werner]

A Whisper in Darkness is the sixth book in Darcy Burke’s Victorian Romance Mystery series. I have read all of the books and preorder them as they become available. I love a good mystery and romance. I have read and enjoyed the Sebastian St Cyr novels, but Burke’s duo is surpassing them in my affections. As much as I want to gulp them down in one sitting, I force myself to ration out the pages so I can make my time with them last.
Tilda Wren and Hadrian Ravenhurst are a perfect crime solving duo and romantic couple. Her methodical crime solving teamed with a hint of paranormal clues gleaned from Hadrian’s ability to see visions when he touches objects is a one two punch. The chemistry between them simmers as Tilda clings to her independence and Hadrian dreams one day he can be her partner in more than just detective work.
This particular crime involved the return of Spring Heeled Jack. Tilda is having none of this. Her practical outlook will not accept a villain who breathes fire, has glowing eyes and leaps over tall obstacles with a single bound. Sifting through clues to find the criminal who abducted three young women and held them for ransom leads them into the theatres of London where the impossible can become reality with a few tricks of the trade.
I won’t give away the ending except to say there is a cliff hanger which hopefully will resolve in the next book. Making me await it even more eagerly than I normally do. Also, the simmering romance has taken a step forward. As much as I want them to get together, I’ve seen so many series where the long awaited happy romantic ending saps all the tension from the ongoing plots. I’m hoping Darcy Burke can pull off giving us some happiness for Raven and Wren while keeping the tension ongoing. If anything, the class distinction between the two should give them a rocky road forward as Victorians were rather particular about such class disparities. May they continue to have a happy but long and winding rocky road which will allow us to enjoy their journey for many more books.

[Janet]

Private detective Matilda Wren’s latest case seems straightforward: find a missing heiress. Except, the ransom note bears a chilling signature—that of Spring-Heeled Jack. This supposed supernatural figure with his red glowing eyes, blue fiery breath, and power to leap great heights has frightened the young women of London for decades. Tilda once again calls on Hadrian Becket, Earl of Ravenhurst, whose ability to see people’s memories will undoubtedly prove indispensable to the investigation. Their relationship has recently deepened, but Tilda is determined not to let their secret courtship distract her from hunting the kidnapper.
The sixth book in this brilliant series & Hadrian & Tilda have now admitted their feelings & are engaged in a secret courtship. They continue to work together, this case is chilling a supernatural figure from decades ago suddenly reappears but his MO has changed & is now kidnapping heiresses. There are very few clues to begin with & Hadrian’s ‘gift’ proves invaluable. Working alongside Inspector Teague they eventually work out who the villain is but he escapes & vows revenge on the detective duo. There are plenty of twists & turns as well as surprises. I was left guessing as to who the villain was. Whilst the case was solved the villain is still at large, so now I’m impatiently awaiting the next book, plus the ending left us with an unexpected surprise.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Joy]

Setting:
Building on a true bit of English History, we find Tilda and Hadrian again swept up into crimes and Police investigations. We learn about a true character called “Spring-heeled Jack” and the sensation he caused London society, as Tilda and Hadrian are involved in trying to solve the mystery of who he is and how he performs his tricks. In doing so, we get a behind-the-scenes view of how theaters make costumes, build gadgets and perform stunts.
Progress is made in Tilda’s relationship to Hadrian’s mother, and the possibility of an engagement seems likely in the near future.

Critique:
I found the story around the historical figure (woven throughout the story) interesting and was new material to me. We do learn his true identity (for this story), but he is escapes capture! (I suppose this is a hook to the next story, but I prefer to have each “mystery” solved by the end of the book).
The budding love story between Tilda and Hadrian grows in a satisfying way during this book. Their skills as investigators are increasing as well, and the need for Hadrian’s special “skill” seems to be less and less. They are growing in their ability to think through the pieces of the puzzle and to assemble a complete picture. There are surprising events that keep the reader interested, which continue to hold elements of mystery right up to the end. One feels compelled to finish the book to find out “what happens”—just as any good mystery does.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dani]

This is the 6th book in this series and they just keep getting better and better.

After all this time, Tilda and Hadrian are finally courting but of course this unique duo are doing so in secret.
I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow deeper and both of them coming together.

The mystery in this book has definitely deepened the plot.
Tilda's reputation is growing. She is becoming well known for her investigative skills, so much so that even the wealthy are turning to her, for her services.

This time we have quite the chilling mystery. A wealthy family has hired Tilda, as their daughter has been kidnapped and of course she turns to Hadrian to aid in the investigation as his special skills are needed once again.

The plot thickens further when the missing girl turns up dead, the family makes allegations against Tilda being at fault and of course Tilda isn't one to give up easily... and then another girl goes missing.

As the story unfolds we have Tilda and Hadrian's relationship growing, Tilda being concerned that the relationship may be interfering with the investigations, Hadrian wanting Tilda to be his countess but fearing pushing her too much when she has always been concerned about their relationship becoming more.

This story was intriguing, had an interesting plot, great characters, twists, and secrets. What a great mystery too.

Looking forward to the next one

I received an ARC. All opinions expressed are my own and voluntarily given.

[Marcia]

A clean historical, romance murder mystery. Now that Hadrian has finally been able to convince Tilda to allow him to court her, though it is a secret courtship, their romantic relationship is put on hold again with a new case. A young woman has been kidnapped, supposedly by the infamous Spring-heeled Jack. Despite the warning in the note from the kidnapper not to call the police, Tilda and Hadrian warn her parents not to follow the instructions and come up with a plan to capture the kidnapper. But in the end, the father does not follow the script, the kidnapper ends up with the money and the young lady is murdered. He then goes to the press giving his own version of events and slandering Tilda, so the father of the next victim will not cooperate with the detective duo or the police. But then a third young lady is kidnapped, Tilda and Hadrian continue to investigate and find that nothing is as it originally appeared. I love the relationship between the two, a little Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn. As the sensational press continues to highlight the pair, Tilda is going to have to make up her mind, which is more important to her, her love for Hadrian or her career, a very contemporary problem. I read an advanced reader's copy as part of the author's review team. This is my unbiased, voluntary and honest review.

[Rolé - Hooked By That Book]

The kidnapping of a young woman in the dead of night kicks of this twisty investigation with Hadrian and Tilda in the thick of things, as usual.

I had my suspicions about the first kidnapping, which turned out to be correct, but subsequent events took some very dark and dangerous turns that I did not expect at all. The book left us with the culprit on the run, so our intrepid detectives still have a lot of work ahead of them. And holy moly, that ending!

The kidnappings and other crimes and the villain all made for a complicated, compelling story. Tilda and Hadrian, with Teague, meticulously followed every clue and slowly unraveled the mystery. I was invested the entire time. And that's not even mentioning the burgeoning relationship between Hadrian and Tilda. I'm so excited to see where the future leads these two.

I can highly recommend this series if you like a super slow burn historical romance with some paranormal elements. It's better to read them in order, so as not to miss the development of the romance.

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This review is also on Hooked By That Book.

[Star-Book Reviewer]

Wow! What a mystery to solve in this one when a young lady goes missing and the ransom notes appear to be the doings of a diabolical legend from thirty years ago, Spring-heeled Jack, although the terrifying monster who breathes blue flames, has claws and red-scorching eyes has now added kidnapping to his evil ways. Private Investigator Matilda “Tilda” Wren and her investigative partner Lord Ravenhurst, Hadrian Beckett, have been hired by the Chadwick’s to recover their daughter, Miss Delia Chadwick, but unfortunately their plans go awry and the blame is thrown on Tilda by Mr. Chadwick making the case harder but Tilda and Hadrian more determined to solve this one and subsequent ones that follow. A horrible case but thankfully the sweet courtship between Tilda and Hadrian has begun and while Tilda struggles with all the reasons they do not work Hadrian is determined to show her why they do. Hadrian is becoming the perfect book boyfriend, knowing just when to apply his charm and pressure. I truly cannot get enough of these two. I’ve come to love her grandmother and the servants of both families just as much. And, of course, I’m eagerly waiting for the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lana Birky]

If London’s young ladies weren’t already nervous, the reappearance of Spring‑Heeled Jack with his glowing eyes, fiery breath, & the worst case of dramatic flair in the city - will do the trick. Luckily, private detective Matilda Wren is not impressed. She’s too busy juggling a missing heiress, a villain with a grudge, & a secret courtship with Hadrian Becket, Earl of Ravenhurst, whose memory-reading gift is finally getting the workout it deserves.

This sixth Raven & Wren mystery delivers all the goods; eerie clues, twisty turns, a villain who refuses to stay politely caught, & a slow‑burn romance that’s finally heating up. Tilda & Hadrian are sharper, closer, & more dangerous together than ever - which is probably why the villain ends the book vowing revenge - just charming!

The case is solved…...technically. But the mastermind is still out there, the ending drops a delicious little bombshell, & now I’m tapping my foot waiting for the next installment like Darcy Burke owes me rent, LOL! I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

[Sahar's Honest Reviews]

Entertaining Victorian Mystery
Tilda and Hadrian are searching for a missing heiress, but as usual, their investigations seem destined to end in murder. Is the kidnapper truly supernatural? Spring-Heeled Jack should have faded into legend decades ago, yet with Hadrian's ability to read memories through touch, perhaps the impossible isn't impossible after all. Will the killer stop with one victim, and what is the motive behind these crimes?
I was completely invested, trying to solve the mystery alongside Tilda and Hadrian. Every theory I came up with was wrong. Will Tilda uncover the truth before it's too late? And if she does, will she and Hadrian survive what awaits them?
The story is filled with twists, but the romance is equally compelling. Tilda, the daughter of a policeman, struggles with their growing relationship because Hadrian is an earl. His title means nothing to him, but can she overcome her doubts? I found myself eager to see what would happen between them.
If you enjoy Victorian murder mysteries with a paranormal touch and a slow-burn romance, you might want to pick up this book.

[Linda J.]

3.5 STARS ROUNDED UP

Continuation of this unusual dual. He is an Earl and rarely is he needed in Parliament. This leaves him with a lot of time on his hands.

I am becoming disappointed in the H. He follows the h around like a lovesick teenager and I want him to be more assertive in their relationship. Yes, I know she is the detective, but when they are not investigating, he could make it a more even field in their relationship.

This still has a lot of mystery, suspense, more than one villain, violence, great secondary characters, and murder. The ending is very suspenseful, but you have a lot of loose ends. Their relationship is up in the air, bad villain not captured, why was the girl murdered?

No cheating, little on romance, big on mystery, and clean with only kisses. I want a decision on their relationship and hope it is resolved in the next story. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase.

I received an ARC and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)