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The Trials of Gabriel Ward #3
A Case of Fear and Favour
Not yet published
Expected 28 Jan 27The librarian's dead body lies in a pool of lamplight on his desk. A priceless medieval document has been stolen from the Inner Temple. And this time the usually reluctant sleuth Gabriel Ward KC couldn't be more eager to investigate - because a second life hangs in the balance.
The authorities have already made an Arjun Acharya, an Indian law student living in the Temple. Did he plan to steal the document as an act of anti-British defiance, and kill the librarian in the process? His lack of alibi and suspicious behaviour since the murder are all the evidence the police need, at least.
But Gabriel is convinced of his innocence. And in matters of murder, Gabriel is very seldom wrong. As London prepares for the coronation of Edward VII under the eyes of millions across the Empire, can Gabriel and Constable Wright find the real killer in time to prevent a terrible miscarriage of justice?
Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 28, 2027
About the author
Sally Smith
5 books233 followersSally Smith spent all her working life as a barrister and later King's Counsel in the Inner Temple. After writing a biography of the famous Edwardian barrister, Sir Edward Marshall Hall KC, she retired from the bar to write full time. A Case of Mice and Murder, her first novel, was inspired by the historic surroundings of the Inner Temple in which she still lives and works and by the rich history contained in the Inner Temple archives. A Case of Mice and Murder is the first in a series starring the reluctant sleuth Sir Gabriel Ward KC.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"Analyse the unknown based on the known."
The words of an Ancient Greek lawmaker that inspire the inimitable Sir Gabriel Ward KC to persevere and look at all options as he embarks upon his third murder case.
This is the third in the brilliant The Trials of Gabriel Ward series and once again we return to the intriguing world of The Temple( Inner and Middle); a place where for centuries and to this day is free from usual jurisdictions that govern everyday life.
In this book ,like the previous two , a 'somewhat' reluctant Gabriel Ward is placed in the role of chief investigator but again is ably assisted by Constable Maurice Wright when the chief librarian to The Temple is found murdered.
Intertwined with the investigations of the librarian's death is the case of the Brighton sweetshop owner who is being sued for non-payment of souvenir rock that was supposed to celebrate the Coronation of King Edward VII and closer to home there are the disappearances of valuable manuscripts from the Temple library.
There are a range of suspects for the murder including a new student , Jitendra Shah, who has come from India. to learn 'the rules' of English law . Sally Smith explores the racist treatment and attitudes of the time directed towards Jitendra which adds another dimension to the book. alongside the ever present class system and gender divisions of the early twentieth century.
A Case of Fear and Favour is beautifully and meticulously plotted with an array of differing characters and plot devices that will keep you hooked all the way through. Ingeniously crafted and as in the previous two books, Gabriel Ward is a brilliant creation as he grows in confidence navigating the wider world beyond his hallowed homestead. Of course, there is also the return of Delphinium- the cat that somehow manages to cause havoc which helps lead to answers.
This is now one of my favourite crime /detective series and all I can say is roll-on Book Four . Sally Smith has created a gem.
Highly recommended crime read for 2027- an absolute joy . For best impact read the books in order of the series.
Thank you to Raven Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy for an honest review
The words of an Ancient Greek lawmaker that inspire the inimitable Sir Gabriel Ward KC to persevere and look at all options as he embarks upon his third murder case.
This is the third in the brilliant The Trials of Gabriel Ward series and once again we return to the intriguing world of The Temple( Inner and Middle); a place where for centuries and to this day is free from usual jurisdictions that govern everyday life.
In this book ,like the previous two , a 'somewhat' reluctant Gabriel Ward is placed in the role of chief investigator but again is ably assisted by Constable Maurice Wright when the chief librarian to The Temple is found murdered.
Intertwined with the investigations of the librarian's death is the case of the Brighton sweetshop owner who is being sued for non-payment of souvenir rock that was supposed to celebrate the Coronation of King Edward VII and closer to home there are the disappearances of valuable manuscripts from the Temple library.
There are a range of suspects for the murder including a new student , Jitendra Shah, who has come from India. to learn 'the rules' of English law . Sally Smith explores the racist treatment and attitudes of the time directed towards Jitendra which adds another dimension to the book. alongside the ever present class system and gender divisions of the early twentieth century.
A Case of Fear and Favour is beautifully and meticulously plotted with an array of differing characters and plot devices that will keep you hooked all the way through. Ingeniously crafted and as in the previous two books, Gabriel Ward is a brilliant creation as he grows in confidence navigating the wider world beyond his hallowed homestead. Of course, there is also the return of Delphinium- the cat that somehow manages to cause havoc which helps lead to answers.
This is now one of my favourite crime /detective series and all I can say is roll-on Book Four . Sally Smith has created a gem.
Highly recommended crime read for 2027- an absolute joy . For best impact read the books in order of the series.
Thank you to Raven Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
Here Gabriel agrees to represent Mother Hubbard, a sweet kiosk owner, who is unable to sell (and therefore pay for) the sticks of commemorative rock she bought for a coronation which didn't go ahead. I have to say that my sympathies would have lain with the wholesaler, had he not been such a villain, but the author's note at the end addresses the legal issue in more detail.
At the same time Gabriel is asked to look into the murder of the Inner Temple Librarian and the theft of priceless manuscripts from the library. Into this mix the author introduces the character of Indian student Shah, who is being trained in English law at the Inner Temple in order to return to India and reinforce the authority of the raj/empire. His character development is interesting to read, and Gabriel too is increasingly growing into a more rounded person, being willing to leave the Temple more readily for example.
I found the first half of this novel a little slow, but then things picked up and there were some exciting courtroom scenes. This is one of my favourite series at the moment.
Here Gabriel agrees to represent Mother Hubbard, a sweet kiosk owner, who is unable to sell (and therefore pay for) the sticks of commemorative rock she bought for a coronation which didn't go ahead. I have to say that my sympathies would have lain with the wholesaler, had he not been such a villain, but the author's note at the end addresses the legal issue in more detail.
At the same time Gabriel is asked to look into the murder of the Inner Temple Librarian and the theft of priceless manuscripts from the library. Into this mix the author introduces the character of Indian student Shah, who is being trained in English law at the Inner Temple in order to return to India and reinforce the authority of the raj/empire. His character development is interesting to read, and Gabriel too is increasingly growing into a more rounded person, being willing to leave the Temple more readily for example.
I found the first half of this novel a little slow, but then things picked up and there were some exciting courtroom scenes. This is one of my favourite series at the moment.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I read A Case of Mice and Murder by Sally Smith over the summer and immediately checked to see if there would be a sequel. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there indeed was, and it was hitting bookshelves just a few days later. I marked my calendar and ran to the bookstore to pick it up.
A Case of Fear and Favour is the third book in the series, and I was lucky enough to receive a digital arc. Gabriel Ward KC is back on the case, solving another mystery in The Temple, the area of London where lawyers live and work, which is free from the city’s jurisdictions.
It’s now 1902, and a reluctant Gabriel has been tasked with solving the murder of The Temple’s chief librarian, Mr. Bryant, who died just moments after Gabriel arrived in the library. The Caxton Statutes, a priceless book Bryant was studying, is missing. All eyes immediately turn to a new law student from India, who was in the library at the time, even though it was closed. Sir William Waring, The Temple’s Master Treasurer, doesn’t want to involve the police, but Gabriel asks his friend Constable Wright for assistance anyway.
Gabriel is also working on a legal case involving confectioner and candy kiosk owner Hilda “Mother” Hubbard, which sees him leaving the comforts of London for the first time in years. Mother Hubbard is at risk over losing her beloved Cupboard over candy rock that was ordered for the king’s coronation.
There are several mysteries in A Case of Fear and Favour. They are cleverly plotted with a keen attention to detail. I figured a few things out, but not all of it. My mind isn’t nearly as sharp as Gabriel’s, and I had absolute faith in his ability to solve the cases. Delphinium the cat has a supporting role in the book, and it’s possible that Gabriel may not have solved things without her assistance.
I enjoyed how the mysteries unfolded alongside the historical and social elements of the story. Did you know that there’s a person whose sole job was to wind the clocks in The Temple?
Themes of how rich white men treat the lower classes, women, and other races are present, but they don’t overpower the story. I was happy to see vegetarianism discussed, and I wonder if there really was a vegetarian restaurant in London in 1902.
A Case of Fear and Favour is the third book in The Trials of Gabriel Ward series. It’s helpful to read the first two books, but it’s not totally necessary.
Thank you to Raven Books and NetGalley for the arc.
A Case of Fear and Favour is the third book in the series, and I was lucky enough to receive a digital arc. Gabriel Ward KC is back on the case, solving another mystery in The Temple, the area of London where lawyers live and work, which is free from the city’s jurisdictions.
It’s now 1902, and a reluctant Gabriel has been tasked with solving the murder of The Temple’s chief librarian, Mr. Bryant, who died just moments after Gabriel arrived in the library. The Caxton Statutes, a priceless book Bryant was studying, is missing. All eyes immediately turn to a new law student from India, who was in the library at the time, even though it was closed. Sir William Waring, The Temple’s Master Treasurer, doesn’t want to involve the police, but Gabriel asks his friend Constable Wright for assistance anyway.
Gabriel is also working on a legal case involving confectioner and candy kiosk owner Hilda “Mother” Hubbard, which sees him leaving the comforts of London for the first time in years. Mother Hubbard is at risk over losing her beloved Cupboard over candy rock that was ordered for the king’s coronation.
There are several mysteries in A Case of Fear and Favour. They are cleverly plotted with a keen attention to detail. I figured a few things out, but not all of it. My mind isn’t nearly as sharp as Gabriel’s, and I had absolute faith in his ability to solve the cases. Delphinium the cat has a supporting role in the book, and it’s possible that Gabriel may not have solved things without her assistance.
I enjoyed how the mysteries unfolded alongside the historical and social elements of the story. Did you know that there’s a person whose sole job was to wind the clocks in The Temple?
Themes of how rich white men treat the lower classes, women, and other races are present, but they don’t overpower the story. I was happy to see vegetarianism discussed, and I wonder if there really was a vegetarian restaurant in London in 1902.
A Case of Fear and Favour is the third book in The Trials of Gabriel Ward series. It’s helpful to read the first two books, but it’s not totally necessary.
Thank you to Raven Books and NetGalley for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is the third in the historical cosy crime series, The Trials of Gabriel Ward.
When Sir Gabriel Ward KC discovers Arnold Bryant, the librarian of the Inner Temple, injured and dying at his desk in the library, he is once again tasked with investigating a murder within the sanctum of the Temple. When the library strongroom is then discovered to be missing 20 priceless books, he must find Bryant's killer and track down the stolen works while also preparing to represent a tiny sweet stall in Brighton in a case that might change British law forever. As his work progresses however, he finds the case and the investigation may inform each other in the most surprising of ways.
Among the suspects in the case are an Indian law student battling with the condescending bigotry of those around him and a female assistant librarian discovering new ideas, and the contrast they bring to the privileged few inside the Temple is both enlightening and enriching for the cloistered Gabriel, who, ably supported by his police ally, Constable Wright, becomes braver and more willing to step outside his own comfort zone in his pursuit of justice on all fronts.
In this intricate and eccentric mystery, Sally Smith balances contemporary insight with vivid historic detail and kept me guessing to the very end. Gabriel Ward is such an endearing and self-aware character, you'll find yourself utterly invested in his success, both as a barrister and detective, and the cast of supporting characters are equally likeable and sympathetic. She manages to make the legal plotlines interesting and compelling, and the character of Shah and the experience of Indian law students in London at the turn of the century were particularly enlightening (I recommend reading the Author's Note at the end for more on this). Smith's understanding of the period and intimate knowledge of the Temple is delivered lightly but authoritatively and the result is a rich and satisfying read. You won't find a better historical crime series.
When Sir Gabriel Ward KC discovers Arnold Bryant, the librarian of the Inner Temple, injured and dying at his desk in the library, he is once again tasked with investigating a murder within the sanctum of the Temple. When the library strongroom is then discovered to be missing 20 priceless books, he must find Bryant's killer and track down the stolen works while also preparing to represent a tiny sweet stall in Brighton in a case that might change British law forever. As his work progresses however, he finds the case and the investigation may inform each other in the most surprising of ways.
Among the suspects in the case are an Indian law student battling with the condescending bigotry of those around him and a female assistant librarian discovering new ideas, and the contrast they bring to the privileged few inside the Temple is both enlightening and enriching for the cloistered Gabriel, who, ably supported by his police ally, Constable Wright, becomes braver and more willing to step outside his own comfort zone in his pursuit of justice on all fronts.
In this intricate and eccentric mystery, Sally Smith balances contemporary insight with vivid historic detail and kept me guessing to the very end. Gabriel Ward is such an endearing and self-aware character, you'll find yourself utterly invested in his success, both as a barrister and detective, and the cast of supporting characters are equally likeable and sympathetic. She manages to make the legal plotlines interesting and compelling, and the character of Shah and the experience of Indian law students in London at the turn of the century were particularly enlightening (I recommend reading the Author's Note at the end for more on this). Smith's understanding of the period and intimate knowledge of the Temple is delivered lightly but authoritatively and the result is a rich and satisfying read. You won't find a better historical crime series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the third book of this charming series, set in one of the Inns of Court in London in the early 1900s. Edward VII's postponed coronation of 1902 is the focal event. It features the thoroughly likeable Sir Gabriel Ward KC as unwilling detective, and his more conventional partner Sergeant Wright.
This installment, however, is not as pleasing as the previous ones of the series, especially the first. Using her expert insider knowledge of the workings of the Inner Temple, Sally Smith KC continues to come up with imaginative plots - the legal one involving the law of contracts and the criminal one involving the murder of the Inner Temple librarian.
But the inspiration this time tends to flag. She relies for effect on the patterns established in the previous books, and the characters are not as sharply drawn. The young people - a privileged and entitled toff, a bewildered visiting Indian law student, and a passionate precedent-breaking female assistant librarian - are roughly sketched-in stereotypes. The plots are a bit too straightforward and easily resolved (I was able to make a fair guess about one of them).
I do still plan to read the next in the series. Sally Smith is an uncommonly intelligent and literate writer, and I hope she surpasses these early achievements.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley.
This installment, however, is not as pleasing as the previous ones of the series, especially the first. Using her expert insider knowledge of the workings of the Inner Temple, Sally Smith KC continues to come up with imaginative plots - the legal one involving the law of contracts and the criminal one involving the murder of the Inner Temple librarian.
But the inspiration this time tends to flag. She relies for effect on the patterns established in the previous books, and the characters are not as sharply drawn. The young people - a privileged and entitled toff, a bewildered visiting Indian law student, and a passionate precedent-breaking female assistant librarian - are roughly sketched-in stereotypes. The plots are a bit too straightforward and easily resolved (I was able to make a fair guess about one of them).
I do still plan to read the next in the series. Sally Smith is an uncommonly intelligent and literate writer, and I hope she surpasses these early achievements.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Like the previous reviewer, I think this third outing for Gabriel Ward shows how Sally Smith is growing in confidence and ability.
Unlike the previous reviewers, however, I think the highlighting of the casual bigotry and condescension meted of to Indian law students of the time is well brought out and should be a pertinent reminder of how seemingly small ungenerous acts can have larger consequences. Ghandi's misery and loneliness as a young man might no doubt have had some personal impact as his life progressed.
But back to the environs of Gabriel Ward's somewhat rarified professional life.
Once again Gabriel is forced out of his comfort zone by his innate discomfort when things are manifestly unfair and wrong. Ward is no physical hero, leaving that to his admirable foil, Constable Wright. Ward uses his legal abilities, and his love for the purity of the justice system...always assuming that the justice system holds fast to that purity...to right wrongs and defend those who deserve his defence.
The obverse is equally true, however and it is that which endears one to Gabriel as these novels unfold.
I truly hope that Gabriel will set forth, a useful Quixote accompanied by his local Sancho Panza on a new case in the not too distant future
Unlike the previous reviewers, however, I think the highlighting of the casual bigotry and condescension meted of to Indian law students of the time is well brought out and should be a pertinent reminder of how seemingly small ungenerous acts can have larger consequences. Ghandi's misery and loneliness as a young man might no doubt have had some personal impact as his life progressed.
But back to the environs of Gabriel Ward's somewhat rarified professional life.
Once again Gabriel is forced out of his comfort zone by his innate discomfort when things are manifestly unfair and wrong. Ward is no physical hero, leaving that to his admirable foil, Constable Wright. Ward uses his legal abilities, and his love for the purity of the justice system...always assuming that the justice system holds fast to that purity...to right wrongs and defend those who deserve his defence.
The obverse is equally true, however and it is that which endears one to Gabriel as these novels unfold.
I truly hope that Gabriel will set forth, a useful Quixote accompanied by his local Sancho Panza on a new case in the not too distant future
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another excellent instalment of this series, I am very fond of Gabriel and all his quirks. He is again involved in two cases: firstly, the murder of the Temple librarian and the tricky case of Mother Hubbard and sticks of rock, The murder investigation begins when Gabriel goes late to the library to find a book he needs and instead finds the librarian dying and leaving a cryptic message with Gabriel, The book he was reading is also missing. Once again, William Waring has to reluctantly allow Constable Ward to assist Gabriel to solve a convoluted case. The legal matter he is dealing with surrounds the order placed by Mother Hubbard for sticks of rock with the date of the King’s coronation within them. When the King becomes ill and the rock is not sellable, Mother Hubbard is unable to pay for the rock. Is she bound to her contract? There is an interesting historical note about this which is worth reading afterwards. The cases are fun but the real joy is the people and their overblown egos, small lives and failings. There is also an interesting addition of a student from India which raises many questions and also has a historical basis. Again, highly recommended. 4.5 stars. Thanks to Netgalley for an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Gabriel Ward, KC, goes to the library and discovers the librarian dying and a rare book missing; William Waring charges Gabriel with the task of solving the murder, and has to allow Gabriel to allow Constable Ward to solve the case. The two main suspects are a young female librarian (recommended by Gabriel) and an Indian student; I wonder just how far we've come from Edwardian attitude of bigotry? (It's written very sensitively and it's very well done.)
Gabriel is also working pro bono on a legal case for Mother Hubbard, who ordered sticks of rock with the date of the king's coronation. When the king is stricken by illness, the date of the coronation is moved and the rock is no longer sellable. Mother Hubbard can't afford to pay for it; is she bound by her contract? The outcome of the case will either change the law or leave her family penniless. When she's threatened, Gabriel and Constable Ward are drawn deeper into the case and discover some unexpected links...
Beautifully written, with excellent characterisation, an interesting background (and, as always, an excellent historical note at the end of the book), a clever plot and much food for thought. I really hope this series runs and runs.
Thoroughly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the third title in The Trials of Gabriel Ward series, and author Sally Smith continues to go from strength to strength.
The story begins in March 1903, when Gabriel Ward discovers the body of the Inner Temple librarian and is tasked with discovering what happened. At the same time he is preparing for a legal case he will be arguing at the High Court.
I love Gabriel Ward. He is one of the sweetest, funniest and most interesting characters I’ve come across. He is incredibly clever and has a unique way of looking at the world. At the same time he is absolutely aware that his quirks and foibles aren’t the norm and his sensitivity is heart-Wrenching.
The plot concerns racism, misogyny and the theft of incredibly rare and valuable books. It held my attention from start to finish and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good historical mystery.
*** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher ***
The story begins in March 1903, when Gabriel Ward discovers the body of the Inner Temple librarian and is tasked with discovering what happened. At the same time he is preparing for a legal case he will be arguing at the High Court.
I love Gabriel Ward. He is one of the sweetest, funniest and most interesting characters I’ve come across. He is incredibly clever and has a unique way of looking at the world. At the same time he is absolutely aware that his quirks and foibles aren’t the norm and his sensitivity is heart-Wrenching.
The plot concerns racism, misogyny and the theft of incredibly rare and valuable books. It held my attention from start to finish and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good historical mystery.
*** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher ***
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Case of Fear and Favour - Sally Smith due for publication 28 Jan 2027
This is the third outing for Sir Gabriel and Constable Wright whose friendship has grown over their time investigating with both moving outside their comfort zones to solve the murder of the Temple librarian where once again Sir Gabriel is railroaded into investigating the death plus the theft of a number of priceless books.
At the same time Sir Gabriel decides to take the pro bono case of Mrs Hubbard and her souvenir sticks of rock which become useless to sell after the coronation is cancelled and the manufacturer of the rock who still wants his money.
The story was engaging and complex with plenty of historical accuracy around the times (read the notes at the end of the story) such as the racist and bigoted behaviour afforded to an Indian law student who is suspected by the college and police of the murder. The murder, the theft and the court case are weaved together to give an unexpected ending.
This is a really enjoyable series with engaging characters, witty and charming and I look forward to the next one.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for a pre publication copy.
This is the third outing for Sir Gabriel and Constable Wright whose friendship has grown over their time investigating with both moving outside their comfort zones to solve the murder of the Temple librarian where once again Sir Gabriel is railroaded into investigating the death plus the theft of a number of priceless books.
At the same time Sir Gabriel decides to take the pro bono case of Mrs Hubbard and her souvenir sticks of rock which become useless to sell after the coronation is cancelled and the manufacturer of the rock who still wants his money.
The story was engaging and complex with plenty of historical accuracy around the times (read the notes at the end of the story) such as the racist and bigoted behaviour afforded to an Indian law student who is suspected by the college and police of the murder. The murder, the theft and the court case are weaved together to give an unexpected ending.
This is a really enjoyable series with engaging characters, witty and charming and I look forward to the next one.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for a pre publication copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sally Smith's third outing with barrister Gabriel Ward, A Case of Fear and Favor, is a more than satisfying addition to the series. The librarian of the Inner Temple is murdered, a rare manuscript goes missing, and Gabriel is pulled into a pro bono case involving Dirty Bertie's coronation and sweets on the Brighton seafront. His insular world is breached as he ventures out, physically alongside his police sidekick and intellectually through his exchanges with an Indian law student who exposes the fallacies of British superiority. For a time the story lines seem to multiply faster than the reader can follow, but Smith (and Ward) deftly draw the disparate threads into a cohesive conclusion. Fans of Gabriel Ward's first two outings, and of British historical mysteries generally, will relish this one.
July 20, 2026
This is Sally Smith’s most accomplished book. The third book in the Gabriel Ward series shows the author has acquired a new level of comfort and facility in writing. Infelicities such as repetition of Ward’s OCD traits have been scaled back. We are reintroduced to beloved characters from the previous books and Ward makes his first visit out of London.
There are some problems. The arc of an Indian law student is predictable and insipid. The resolution of the murder is unsatisfying and nonsensical. But both problems reflect Smith’s commendable growing ambition and, overall, I enjoyed this charming and diverting mystery.
I am grateful to have received a review copy from Bloomsbury and NetGalley.
There are some problems. The arc of an Indian law student is predictable and insipid. The resolution of the murder is unsatisfying and nonsensical. But both problems reflect Smith’s commendable growing ambition and, overall, I enjoyed this charming and diverting mystery.
I am grateful to have received a review copy from Bloomsbury and NetGalley.
August 29, 2026
I absolutely love this series, Sir Gabriel is such an awesome character and I love reading about his cases both within the Temple and within the courts. The author really gives us an insight into the workings of Edwardian Englands legal system.
This time our reluctant investigator is on the case of the murderer of the Temples Librarian. As usually this investigation runs along side his legal cases and this one involves coronation rock of all things. This book explores the contrast between the closeted cut off world of the Temple with the working classes outside. Travelling to Brighton to meet a client, something completely outside of Sir Gabriel’s comfort zone. But along side Constable Wright Sir Gabriel works him magic using what he loves the most - the Legal System. This book like the rest of the series is a great example of a cosy historical murder mystery. Its characters are so well created and are now well established and on the way to becoming family to the reader.
I would highly recommend this series and whilst this could be read as a stand alone book I would suggest to read the other 2 as not only are they good books you get to know the characters better.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
This time our reluctant investigator is on the case of the murderer of the Temples Librarian. As usually this investigation runs along side his legal cases and this one involves coronation rock of all things. This book explores the contrast between the closeted cut off world of the Temple with the working classes outside. Travelling to Brighton to meet a client, something completely outside of Sir Gabriel’s comfort zone. But along side Constable Wright Sir Gabriel works him magic using what he loves the most - the Legal System. This book like the rest of the series is a great example of a cosy historical murder mystery. Its characters are so well created and are now well established and on the way to becoming family to the reader.
I would highly recommend this series and whilst this could be read as a stand alone book I would suggest to read the other 2 as not only are they good books you get to know the characters better.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I hadn’t known that this is another book in the series where Sir Gabirel Ward KC is the Inner Temple “detective”. I hadn’t read any previous ones. Gabriel must solve the mystery of a murdered librarian, the theft of valuable books and items from the library all whilst representing a sweetshop owner where the result of the case might change the law forever.
I thought the characters were well developed and the storyline was good, lots of different lines of the plot to keep you guessing all the way to the end. Recommended and I’m definitely going to read the other books in this series. My thanks to NetGalley and the author for an ARC
I thought the characters were well developed and the storyline was good, lots of different lines of the plot to keep you guessing all the way to the end. Recommended and I’m definitely going to read the other books in this series. My thanks to NetGalley and the author for an ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the third outing for Gabriel Ward and a 5 star read for me.
This time the librarian is found dead by Gabriel and a priceless medieval document is also found to be stolen. There are two possible suspects - the Assistant Librarian recommended by Gabriel and an Indian law student.
He is convinced both are innocent and the discovery of further stolen items - items stolen over the last 4 months - adds to this belief.
In the midst of his investigations aided by Constable Wright, Gabriel takes on a pro-bono brief about the postponed Coronation.
As he investigates further he becomes convinced that both are linked.
Delphinium the cat remains my favourite character and I look forward to outing number 4.
This time the librarian is found dead by Gabriel and a priceless medieval document is also found to be stolen. There are two possible suspects - the Assistant Librarian recommended by Gabriel and an Indian law student.
He is convinced both are innocent and the discovery of further stolen items - items stolen over the last 4 months - adds to this belief.
In the midst of his investigations aided by Constable Wright, Gabriel takes on a pro-bono brief about the postponed Coronation.
As he investigates further he becomes convinced that both are linked.
Delphinium the cat remains my favourite character and I look forward to outing number 4.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Case of Fear and Favor continues the terrific series starring Gabriel Ward KC in the third mystery situated in the Inner Temple of London’s highest courts. This series has been so strong since the first book. Great sense of place, character and a twisty case that comes together beautifully. Also, Sally Smith’s writing is a joy to read.
October 16, 2026
Late one night, Gabriel can't find a book he needs to reference for a case and make an after-hours detour to the library. There he finds a dying librarian whose final words leave Gabriel confused and in search of the killer.
All books in this serious of have been consistently good. It took me a bit to understand there are two dramas in each one. One is more of a legal case drama, and one is the murder Gabriel is forced to solve which end up helping with the murder in some way. Can't wait to read more.
All books in this serious of have been consistently good. It took me a bit to understand there are two dramas in each one. One is more of a legal case drama, and one is the murder Gabriel is forced to solve which end up helping with the murder in some way. Can't wait to read more.
September 15, 2026
I really enjoyed this -- 4.5 stars rounded up. I think this is one of my favorite mystery series at the moment.
I received an e-arc from the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for my honest review.
I received an e-arc from the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Another lovely romp with Ward and Wright. Like I've said, I could read these forever.
Read
October 29, 2026Loved this installment of the Gabriel Ward Series! Sally Smith weaves a great mystery. I hope there are many more to come!
October 10, 2026
The third instalment of the Gabriel Ward investigations and I still absolutely adore this series. In this one Gabriel is saving a seaside sweet seller for his friend Constable Wright who is in trouble due to the delay in the Kings coronation. At the same time he needs to solve the murder of the librarian.
This is a great case linking into the theft of artifacts, corruption, racism, sexism and gangsters. Through it all Gabriel remains calm and oblivious to the real world but begins to branch out, even taking a trip to Brighton.
I love the way he works out the puzzles and learns more about the people around him. He is slowly making more connections and we learn a little bit more about his history. I am very impatiently waiting for the next case.
Book received free via NetGalley.
This is a great case linking into the theft of artifacts, corruption, racism, sexism and gangsters. Through it all Gabriel remains calm and oblivious to the real world but begins to branch out, even taking a trip to Brighton.
I love the way he works out the puzzles and learns more about the people around him. He is slowly making more connections and we learn a little bit more about his history. I am very impatiently waiting for the next case.
Book received free via NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is an exemplary example of a British murder mystery. A Case of Fear and Favour is a skilfully constructed yet humane story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing Plc (UK & ANZ) for the ARC. My review is voluntary. This is third book in the series. It can be read as a stand alone but as the characters develop so well across the series I recommend reading the first two books.
Gabriel Ward KC investigates a murder and theft while acting as a barrister in a ground breaking legal case.
This book meets all the requirements of an historical cozy crime, with its richly envisaged historical setting and intriguing cast of characters. It is elevated above the average offering of this genre because of its exploration of social injustice, in particular the subtleties of racism.
The Inner Temple is a rarefied setting inhabited by the upper echelons of society. Just outside the Temple's gates is the hurly burly and often brutal world of Edwardian working class London. This book explores the stark contrast between these two worlds. Interestingly, it is the rigid thinking Gabriel who sees and exposes the injustices that prevailed at the time. This element of the book was very much in the tradition of Dickens.
Of particular interest, is Gabriel's relationship with the young policeman Constable Wright which has developed across the series. The two men come from different social classes and may not seem like natural allies, but their shared sense of decency brings them together.
Fans of Agatha Christie particularly the Poirot books will enjoy this book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bloomsbury Publishing Plc (UK & ANZ) for the ARC. My review is voluntary. This is third book in the series. It can be read as a stand alone but as the characters develop so well across the series I recommend reading the first two books.
Gabriel Ward KC investigates a murder and theft while acting as a barrister in a ground breaking legal case.
This book meets all the requirements of an historical cozy crime, with its richly envisaged historical setting and intriguing cast of characters. It is elevated above the average offering of this genre because of its exploration of social injustice, in particular the subtleties of racism.
The Inner Temple is a rarefied setting inhabited by the upper echelons of society. Just outside the Temple's gates is the hurly burly and often brutal world of Edwardian working class London. This book explores the stark contrast between these two worlds. Interestingly, it is the rigid thinking Gabriel who sees and exposes the injustices that prevailed at the time. This element of the book was very much in the tradition of Dickens.
Of particular interest, is Gabriel's relationship with the young policeman Constable Wright which has developed across the series. The two men come from different social classes and may not seem like natural allies, but their shared sense of decency brings them together.
Fans of Agatha Christie particularly the Poirot books will enjoy this book.
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