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For Services Rendered: A Barker & Llewelyn Novel
Not yet published
Expected 18 Aug 26In London, 1896, private enquiry agent Cyrus Barker's world is upturned when his longtime nemesis, Sebastian Nightwine, previously believed dead, turns up with evil on his mind, launching devastating and secretive attacks against not just Barker, but his network of friends and close associates.
In 1896, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, would be reformer and revolutionary, turns up in London, running away from China's Imperial Qing Secret Service, who has placed a substantial bounty on his head for his political activities. Captured by those agents, he's imprisoned in the Chinese Embassy until he can be smuggled back to China to face execution.
In the meantime, private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn receive the unbelievable news that Sebastian Nightwine is both alive and in London. Not just that, it seems he's taking action against Barker and his close associates. At the same time, they've been hired to find this missing Sun Yat-Sen. With elements of the Chinese secret service, elements of the British government, and Nightwine himself all working against them, Barker & Llewelyn are at risk of being cornered by the deadliest set enemies they've yet faced.
In 1896, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, would be reformer and revolutionary, turns up in London, running away from China's Imperial Qing Secret Service, who has placed a substantial bounty on his head for his political activities. Captured by those agents, he's imprisoned in the Chinese Embassy until he can be smuggled back to China to face execution.
In the meantime, private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn receive the unbelievable news that Sebastian Nightwine is both alive and in London. Not just that, it seems he's taking action against Barker and his close associates. At the same time, they've been hired to find this missing Sun Yat-Sen. With elements of the Chinese secret service, elements of the British government, and Nightwine himself all working against them, Barker & Llewelyn are at risk of being cornered by the deadliest set enemies they've yet faced.
320 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication August 18, 2026
46 people want to read
About the author
Will Thomas
53 books1,104 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Will Thomas, born 1958 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is a novelist who writes a Victorian mystery series featuring Cyrus Barker, a Scottish detective or "private enquiry agent," and his Welsh assistant, Thomas Llewelyn. The Barker/Llewelyn novels are set in the 1880s and often feature historical events, people, and movements. Martial combat is a recurring theme throughout this hardboiled series.
Prior to writing novels, Will Thomas wrote essays for Sherlock Holmes society publications and lectured on crime fiction of the Victorian era.
Will Thomas' first novel, Some Danger Involved, was nominated for a Barry Award and a Shamus Award, and won the 2005 Oklahoma Book Award. In 2015, he won the Oklahoma Book Award a second time for Fatal Enquiry. Will Thomas has been featured on the cover of Library Journal, and was the Toastmaster at the 2007 Great Manhattan Mystery Conclave in Manhattan, Kansas. His fifth novel, The Black Hand, was nominated for a 2009 Shamus Award. He is married to author Julia Bryan Thomas.
Series:
. Barker and Llewelyn
Will Thomas, born 1958 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is a novelist who writes a Victorian mystery series featuring Cyrus Barker, a Scottish detective or "private enquiry agent," and his Welsh assistant, Thomas Llewelyn. The Barker/Llewelyn novels are set in the 1880s and often feature historical events, people, and movements. Martial combat is a recurring theme throughout this hardboiled series.
Prior to writing novels, Will Thomas wrote essays for Sherlock Holmes society publications and lectured on crime fiction of the Victorian era.
Will Thomas' first novel, Some Danger Involved, was nominated for a Barry Award and a Shamus Award, and won the 2005 Oklahoma Book Award. In 2015, he won the Oklahoma Book Award a second time for Fatal Enquiry. Will Thomas has been featured on the cover of Library Journal, and was the Toastmaster at the 2007 Great Manhattan Mystery Conclave in Manhattan, Kansas. His fifth novel, The Black Hand, was nominated for a 2009 Shamus Award. He is married to author Julia Bryan Thomas.
Series:
. Barker and Llewelyn
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
December 7, 2025
First, this is my first Will Thomas read and therefore obviously the first Barker and Llewellyn novel as well.
I was provided a preview copy of this book courtesy of Net Galley in return for my honest review. As I understand it, the book will be published in August. 2026.
I will not include spoilers as this novel does not come out for 9 months. BUT for those of you that are reading the series in order??? Faithful fans, hold on to your hats, the best has arrived.
I am a voracious reader of Historical Fiction and Historical Mysteries. I've tried as of late to get away from WWII novels, so I appreciated this Victorian-era novel. And I'm enamored with the Queen Vicrian era specifically, so this novel fits the bill. The writer really works on period-era phrasing, dress, and culture to the point where the reader feels they are characters in the novel.
The main characters are well described and deeply involved in the action. Specifically Llewellyn, who is the narrator is so intense and multi-faceted that I, as only haven't met him in this episode. understand his strengths and weaknesses .
But some characters introduced in this novel (or reintroduced) are a little hazy for me. Im not sure if it's because Im picking up the plots at the 17th book(s), or if the author lacks substantial depth in historical description?
I did pick up historical references to unrest in China at this time to provide additional background, which. as in all historical fiction cannot possibly be part of the novel. I loved the way Thomas presented characters both in London and from China struggling in England. My only critique is that some of this narrative of the violence was excessive and unnecessary. We understand as readers that Barker and Llewellyn undertook a dangerous task. 3/4 of the book was dedicated to getting out of that, or getting into more trouble.....
It got a little long..... Either some (no spoiler) or usual involvement along the way.
Still I really enjoyed reading about Chinese immigrants fleeing or struggling to find a base of support or respite in Victorian-day England.
It was a well-written, mostly well-edited novel. Too long, but very descriptive in terms of characterization, action and locations. 4 stars.
I was provided a preview copy of this book courtesy of Net Galley in return for my honest review. As I understand it, the book will be published in August. 2026.
I will not include spoilers as this novel does not come out for 9 months. BUT for those of you that are reading the series in order??? Faithful fans, hold on to your hats, the best has arrived.
I am a voracious reader of Historical Fiction and Historical Mysteries. I've tried as of late to get away from WWII novels, so I appreciated this Victorian-era novel. And I'm enamored with the Queen Vicrian era specifically, so this novel fits the bill. The writer really works on period-era phrasing, dress, and culture to the point where the reader feels they are characters in the novel.
The main characters are well described and deeply involved in the action. Specifically Llewellyn, who is the narrator is so intense and multi-faceted that I, as only haven't met him in this episode. understand his strengths and weaknesses .
But some characters introduced in this novel (or reintroduced) are a little hazy for me. Im not sure if it's because Im picking up the plots at the 17th book(s), or if the author lacks substantial depth in historical description?
I did pick up historical references to unrest in China at this time to provide additional background, which. as in all historical fiction cannot possibly be part of the novel. I loved the way Thomas presented characters both in London and from China struggling in England. My only critique is that some of this narrative of the violence was excessive and unnecessary. We understand as readers that Barker and Llewellyn undertook a dangerous task. 3/4 of the book was dedicated to getting out of that, or getting into more trouble.....
It got a little long..... Either some (no spoiler) or usual involvement along the way.
Still I really enjoyed reading about Chinese immigrants fleeing or struggling to find a base of support or respite in Victorian-day England.
It was a well-written, mostly well-edited novel. Too long, but very descriptive in terms of characterization, action and locations. 4 stars.
February 2, 2026
This is a great series. The newest story was a bit of a surprise to me, as it reintroduces a minor character who was supposedly dead from a duel several years ago. However, somehow he survived and presented himself as a part of the story again. I love how all main characters continue to evolve and grow, age, have children etc; they don’t remain the same as when they were first introduced. It’s just not done by many authors who write a longstanding series.
The mystery was also good, with enough to it to be satisfying, but also not overly complicated. I have to say that I predicted the ending, but that doesn’t make it any less compelling and satisfying.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy.
The mystery was also good, with enough to it to be satisfying, but also not overly complicated. I have to say that I predicted the ending, but that doesn’t make it any less compelling and satisfying.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy.
January 29, 2026
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Will Thomas for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for For Services Rendered coming out August 18, 2026. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is one of my favorite writers. I thought the story felt fast-paced and full of action. I love Victorian Murder Mysteries so it was easy for me to dive into the story. I’d definitely check out more books by this author!
This is one of my favorite writers. I thought the story felt fast-paced and full of action. I love Victorian Murder Mysteries so it was easy for me to dive into the story. I’d definitely check out more books by this author!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I read my first Barker & Llewelyn novel a few years ago. and have thoroughly enjoyed the series. I was provided a advanced copy of this book courtesy of Net Galley and Minotaur Books in return for my honest review.
The series centers on the exploits of enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn in Victorian England. Will Thomas loves to take a historical kernel (in this case Dr. Sun Yat-Sen) and build a compelling detective novel around it.
The characters are complex and their are often references to previous adventures, so reading the series in order, while not necessary, is helpful. I jumped in I believe with book 14 but quickly began the series from the beginning.
Without giving spoilers, Thomas weaves a tale of political and social intrigue that is a fun read for anyone who enjoys a good mystery with historical antidotes mixed in.
I read a number of advanced reader copies, and usually they are pretty close to perfection, this one however seems to need some editing in the beginning of the last third. I found some inconsistencies in the storyline and it felt like other parts were missing.
Despite that, I enjoy the exploits of Barker and Llewelyn and look forward to the next twist in the road.
The series centers on the exploits of enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn in Victorian England. Will Thomas loves to take a historical kernel (in this case Dr. Sun Yat-Sen) and build a compelling detective novel around it.
The characters are complex and their are often references to previous adventures, so reading the series in order, while not necessary, is helpful. I jumped in I believe with book 14 but quickly began the series from the beginning.
Without giving spoilers, Thomas weaves a tale of political and social intrigue that is a fun read for anyone who enjoys a good mystery with historical antidotes mixed in.
I read a number of advanced reader copies, and usually they are pretty close to perfection, this one however seems to need some editing in the beginning of the last third. I found some inconsistencies in the storyline and it felt like other parts were missing.
Despite that, I enjoy the exploits of Barker and Llewelyn and look forward to the next twist in the road.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Because the complimentary copy I received was marked uncorrected, I won’t make any judgments regarding typos or minor inconsistencies.
I have never been so delighted to realize I was reading part of a series — and not the first installment. How had I not discovered Will Thomas before? For Services Rendered is precisely calibrated to my tastes and proved a welcome palate cleanser from my usual reading. I finished it in less than a day, and reading it out of sequence presented no issues at all.
Cyrus Barker evokes Phileas Fogg in his habits and Sherlock Holmes in his choice of associates—a delicious combination—yet he remains wholly his own character. The story is immersive, seamlessly blending history and fiction. The dialogue, one-liners, narrative style, plot structure, and pacing are all beautifully executed. Will Thomas’s entire backlist has now landed squarely on my TBR, and I plan to explore his wife’s books as well.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this advance copy. I received For Services Rendered through NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
I have never been so delighted to realize I was reading part of a series — and not the first installment. How had I not discovered Will Thomas before? For Services Rendered is precisely calibrated to my tastes and proved a welcome palate cleanser from my usual reading. I finished it in less than a day, and reading it out of sequence presented no issues at all.
Cyrus Barker evokes Phileas Fogg in his habits and Sherlock Holmes in his choice of associates—a delicious combination—yet he remains wholly his own character. The story is immersive, seamlessly blending history and fiction. The dialogue, one-liners, narrative style, plot structure, and pacing are all beautifully executed. Will Thomas’s entire backlist has now landed squarely on my TBR, and I plan to explore his wife’s books as well.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this advance copy. I received For Services Rendered through NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oh, how I loved this book! Coming in on book #17 of a series had me a bit worried. Especially since they were talking about the return of a longstanding villain that had been “killed”. I believe it would be beneficial to have read the previous books, but it is not a necessity. It did not kill my joy in this novel one bit.
Cyrus Barker is back with his able assistant, Thomas Llewelyn in this Victorian London thriller. They are charged with finding someone that has left China after dissenting from the cruelty of their government. In this mystery, historical facts are given to further the actual story, and it is brilliant in how it was done. At the same time, Barker’s arch nemesis, Sebastian Nightwine, has risen from the dead and is threatening Barker’s family.
I loved the writing and the pacing of this novel. There was so much going on, but I never felt lost, even without prior knowledge of the series.
I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the second book I have read from this series, although there are many earlier ones. I have enjoyed both of them quite a bit.
Plot summary: Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn, a private detective team, discover that their arch nemesis Sebastian Nightwine is not dead as they thought, but alive and back in London. At the same time, a Chinese revolutionary and doctor, Sun Yat-Sen, shows up in London but goes missing. Yat-Sen has a price on his head; is Nightwine responsible?
This is a fast-paced novel with many interesting and likable characters. I loved how the author tied in the real story of Sun Yat-Sen to his world of late 1800's London, and there are rich period details.
The only complaint I have is that I didn't find the mystery tight enough. It was fairly straightforward, and the reader can anticipate the twists.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and WIll Thomas for the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
Plot summary: Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn, a private detective team, discover that their arch nemesis Sebastian Nightwine is not dead as they thought, but alive and back in London. At the same time, a Chinese revolutionary and doctor, Sun Yat-Sen, shows up in London but goes missing. Yat-Sen has a price on his head; is Nightwine responsible?
This is a fast-paced novel with many interesting and likable characters. I loved how the author tied in the real story of Sun Yat-Sen to his world of late 1800's London, and there are rich period details.
The only complaint I have is that I didn't find the mystery tight enough. It was fairly straightforward, and the reader can anticipate the twists.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, and WIll Thomas for the opportunity to review an advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"For Services Rendered" is an excellent addition to the Barker and Llewelyn series! I read the first few books in the series a few years ago, and it was great to see that the characters still felt true to how I remembered them, highlighting the author’s consistency. One of my favorite aspects of the book is Thomas’s snarkiness and glib remarks, which are on full display in this book!
At first, some of the events in the book seemed anticlimactic and I was slightly confused as to why the characters chose that route of action. However, reading the Author's Note at the end provided the historical context to explain why some things happened in the book as they did. So if you are not strong in China's history, I recommend taking a moment to read the Author's Note at the end.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves historical mysteries and likes characters that don't mind getting their hands dirty in the name of justice!
At first, some of the events in the book seemed anticlimactic and I was slightly confused as to why the characters chose that route of action. However, reading the Author's Note at the end provided the historical context to explain why some things happened in the book as they did. So if you are not strong in China's history, I recommend taking a moment to read the Author's Note at the end.
I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves historical mysteries and likes characters that don't mind getting their hands dirty in the name of justice!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was my first Will Thomas novel and am happy to say it wont be my last. I was thrilled to find out this is in a series and have immediately added the rest to my TBR.
Will Thomas combines a mix of history, fiction and mystery in his novel and makes for a great story. Taking place in 1896, private investigator Cyrus Barkers arch nemesis is found to be alive! As attacks are launched to not only Barkers direction but his family, friends and other coworkers, is anyone safe?
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Will Thomas combines a mix of history, fiction and mystery in his novel and makes for a great story. Taking place in 1896, private investigator Cyrus Barkers arch nemesis is found to be alive! As attacks are launched to not only Barkers direction but his family, friends and other coworkers, is anyone safe?
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
For Services Rendered by Will Thomas feels very much like classic Barker & Llewelyn. It’s dense with historical detail and has a slow-burn mystery vibe. The plot leans into political intrigue and old enemies resurfacing, which makes the stakes interesting, even if the pacing is more methodical than exciting. It’s not a fast thriller, but it does a good job creating atmosphere and tension through setting and investigation. If you like Victorian mysteries with layered plots and lots of period flavor, this one fits right in with the series. Thanks, NetGalley!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
For services rendered, I kinda have new rules in reading books now. Just go into the story not knowing anything except what was read in the blurb. This was thrilling and suspensefull. Well to me I was anticipating what will come next and be totally wrong in my thinking, I loved the characters and the story line. I found this was fascinating and highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I found it impossible to settle into Barker and Llewelyn's Victorian England.
Maybe this is my fault for jumping into a series midway though. The narration and dialogue felt stilted and the characters felt cliched.
Didn't enjoy this at all.
Maybe this is my fault for jumping into a series midway though. The narration and dialogue felt stilted and the characters felt cliched.
Didn't enjoy this at all.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews