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Barker & Llewelyn #17
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
About the author
Will Thomas
83 books1,110 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 - 21 of 21 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
Barker & Llewelyn try to track down a Chinese intellectual who's been abducted in London for political reasons while being thwarted at every turn by an enemy they thought dead.
This was my first book in the series although it's #17 but I think I was able to piece together the gist of the overarching plot so feel free to jump in if you happen upon this book on its own. The story is narrated through Llewelyn's point of view which I found a bit puzzling - he's a Welshman out of prison trying to create a wholesome, healthy life for himself with a wife and a daughter while assisting Barker, a most mysterious detective who belongs to every single organisation and secret society in London and would have been the obvious choice to tell this story. I really felt like Barker was very much a cypher here with practically no flaws and an extraordinary life and intellect that was just this side of unbelievable. I suppose reading the series in order would have helped here.
The plot itself is interesting and has to do with a real historical figure I knew nothing about - Sun Yat-Sen, who made Chinese history. There was a great deal to do with Victorian London and its diplomatic relations with China and the life of the Chinese population in London. However, and this is something I always find lacking in historical mysteries with one exception, I personally look for a lot more historical details in my historical novels - apart from a very interesting paragraph on the gentleman's club White's, you're not told very much about 1896 London which is a crying shame. Please please throw in paragraphs of research in your books, this is why we (or at least I) read historical books!
I appreciated the complex relationships between the characters - Llewelyn's marital life is explored in depth here with a surprising conclusion. I liked his wife even though we see so little of her.
The mystery itself isn't much of one and I guessed the solution very early on but I hadn't thought of how our pair would figure it out. There are some events in this book which are a sharp reminder of just how much a country's citizens are at the mercy of their rulers - Barker and Llewelyn, celebrated and feted yesterday, are placed in a very different position in this book because of an unwelcome influence at court.
Not a favourite book for sure but I'm happy I read it. Victorian mysteries are catnip to me and I hadn't had a chance yet to give this series a try.
My endless thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this ARC!
This was my first book in the series although it's #17 but I think I was able to piece together the gist of the overarching plot so feel free to jump in if you happen upon this book on its own. The story is narrated through Llewelyn's point of view which I found a bit puzzling - he's a Welshman out of prison trying to create a wholesome, healthy life for himself with a wife and a daughter while assisting Barker, a most mysterious detective who belongs to every single organisation and secret society in London and would have been the obvious choice to tell this story. I really felt like Barker was very much a cypher here with practically no flaws and an extraordinary life and intellect that was just this side of unbelievable. I suppose reading the series in order would have helped here.
The plot itself is interesting and has to do with a real historical figure I knew nothing about - Sun Yat-Sen, who made Chinese history. There was a great deal to do with Victorian London and its diplomatic relations with China and the life of the Chinese population in London. However, and this is something I always find lacking in historical mysteries with one exception, I personally look for a lot more historical details in my historical novels - apart from a very interesting paragraph on the gentleman's club White's, you're not told very much about 1896 London which is a crying shame. Please please throw in paragraphs of research in your books, this is why we (or at least I) read historical books!
I appreciated the complex relationships between the characters - Llewelyn's marital life is explored in depth here with a surprising conclusion. I liked his wife even though we see so little of her.
The mystery itself isn't much of one and I guessed the solution very early on but I hadn't thought of how our pair would figure it out. There are some events in this book which are a sharp reminder of just how much a country's citizens are at the mercy of their rulers - Barker and Llewelyn, celebrated and feted yesterday, are placed in a very different position in this book because of an unwelcome influence at court.
Not a favourite book for sure but I'm happy I read it. Victorian mysteries are catnip to me and I hadn't had a chance yet to give this series a try.
My endless thanks to NetGalley and St Martin's Press for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
For Services Rendered by Will Thomas
(Release expected August 2026)
I received an eARC of For Services Rendered from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first experience reading Will Thomas, and I did not realize going in that this novel is part of a long-running series. That said, it stands remarkably well as a standalone story. While there are subtle references to past events and relationships, they are woven in smoothly and organically. At no point did I feel lost or confused. Instead, those hints at previous installments added depth without disrupting the narrative flow.
The story centers on a Chinese doctor visiting colleagues in London who has, shall we say, left behind a complicated situation in China. Set against the backdrop of the Chinese revolutionary period and the political upheaval surrounding the fall of the Qing dynasty, the novel layers personal danger over global instability. With a substantial bounty on his head, the doctor becomes a highly sought-after prize, drawing multiple forces into a tense and dangerous pursuit.
The characters are richly developed and vividly described. Thomas has a gift for creating individuals who feel grounded in their time and place, yet entirely accessible to modern readers. The Victorian setting is immersive, detailed without being overwhelming, and serves as a compelling stage for intrigue, loyalty, and shifting political tides.
I won’t say more about the plot to avoid spoilers, but longtime followers of the series will no doubt find this installment deeply satisfying. And for readers like me—new to the author—this is an excellent entry point into Victorian historical fiction filled with tension, intelligence, and heart.
I will absolutely be adding more of Will Thomas’s work to my TBR list.
(Release expected August 2026)
I received an eARC of For Services Rendered from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first experience reading Will Thomas, and I did not realize going in that this novel is part of a long-running series. That said, it stands remarkably well as a standalone story. While there are subtle references to past events and relationships, they are woven in smoothly and organically. At no point did I feel lost or confused. Instead, those hints at previous installments added depth without disrupting the narrative flow.
The story centers on a Chinese doctor visiting colleagues in London who has, shall we say, left behind a complicated situation in China. Set against the backdrop of the Chinese revolutionary period and the political upheaval surrounding the fall of the Qing dynasty, the novel layers personal danger over global instability. With a substantial bounty on his head, the doctor becomes a highly sought-after prize, drawing multiple forces into a tense and dangerous pursuit.
The characters are richly developed and vividly described. Thomas has a gift for creating individuals who feel grounded in their time and place, yet entirely accessible to modern readers. The Victorian setting is immersive, detailed without being overwhelming, and serves as a compelling stage for intrigue, loyalty, and shifting political tides.
I won’t say more about the plot to avoid spoilers, but longtime followers of the series will no doubt find this installment deeply satisfying. And for readers like me—new to the author—this is an excellent entry point into Victorian historical fiction filled with tension, intelligence, and heart.
I will absolutely be adding more of Will Thomas’s work to my TBR list.
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
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for providing an advanced copy for review.
I have been a long time lover of this series and have eagerly awaited this next installment. It does not disappoint! Nightwine's surprise return serves to illuminate more of Barker's shadowed past and brings up old wounds for Thomas. And all throughout, Will Thomas continues to expertly weave authentic historical details into the rich tapestry of inquiries and adventures that he has created for Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn. This book also features chapters from the perspective of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen instead of being purely from Thomas' point of view. I would highly recommend this series for anyone who enjoys their murder mysteries with historical accuracy and charming Welsh pessimism.
I have been a long time lover of this series and have eagerly awaited this next installment. It does not disappoint! Nightwine's surprise return serves to illuminate more of Barker's shadowed past and brings up old wounds for Thomas. And all throughout, Will Thomas continues to expertly weave authentic historical details into the rich tapestry of inquiries and adventures that he has created for Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn. This book also features chapters from the perspective of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen instead of being purely from Thomas' point of view. I would highly recommend this series for anyone who enjoys their murder mysteries with historical accuracy and charming Welsh pessimism.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Thomas draws on an incident I didn't know about, when Sun Yat-Sen who will become the president of the Republic of China, was held prisoner for about two weeks in the Chinese embassy in London. This incident becomes intertwined with the reappearance of Barker's nemesis, Nightwine, who Barker had presumably killed in a duel. Less a mystery and more a tale of rescue and tracking down the villains, I was drawn into the story by the characters and the history. I've only read four of the series but find Thomas does a good job of providing enough details that I never feel lost. With a new character introduced at the end, I am looking forward to continuing to read more Barker and Llewelyn.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was the first novel in the series (and by this author) for me, so I was unfamiliar with the characters he’s been writing for 17 books, but there was enough info provided to allow it to be a fulfilling story to read.
I found the first half slow to get into, which disappointed me since I found the premise so interesting, but after the halfway point I was significantly more invested and enjoyed the rest of the journey. I would recommend it for those who like historical fiction, and with so many books in the series, I imagine they’ll take you on quite the journey.
Rounding up, would have rated 3.5 🌟
I found the first half slow to get into, which disappointed me since I found the premise so interesting, but after the halfway point I was significantly more invested and enjoyed the rest of the journey. I would recommend it for those who like historical fiction, and with so many books in the series, I imagine they’ll take you on quite the journey.
Rounding up, would have rated 3.5 🌟
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
This long-running series has stayed fresh and interesting. This one ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, so looking forward to more! AND we got a few more snippets of backstory about Barker, Ho, and others.
The books always seem to zero in on a historical event or timeline that I know little to nothing about. I also love the glimpses into everyday life at a time of fast and furious change - with technology, and social standings, and more.
The books always seem to zero in on a historical event or timeline that I know little to nothing about. I also love the glimpses into everyday life at a time of fast and furious change - with technology, and social standings, and more.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📚📚 ARC Review 📚📚
This was my first book by Will Thomas and I enjoyed it for a couple of reasons.
As a fan of historical fiction, it’s fun to see an author take an important event and give us a character perspective we may not have considered.
The way Thomas writes the story had me thinking, for a brief moment, that it was written in Victorian England. It kind of makes you feel like you were there and you're able to fully immerse yourself in the book.
This was my first book by Will Thomas and I enjoyed it for a couple of reasons.
As a fan of historical fiction, it’s fun to see an author take an important event and give us a character perspective we may not have considered.
The way Thomas writes the story had me thinking, for a brief moment, that it was written in Victorian England. It kind of makes you feel like you were there and you're able to fully immerse yourself in the book.
reading-next-arc-approvals
March 27, 2026PUBLISH DATE: Aug 18, 2026
BOOK TITLE: For Services Rendered
SERIES: A Barker & Llewelyn Novel
AUTHOR: Will Thomas
PUBLISHER: St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books
FORMAT: ebook
PAGES: 304
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Readers Copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
BOOK TITLE: For Services Rendered
SERIES: A Barker & Llewelyn Novel
AUTHOR: Will Thomas
PUBLISHER: St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books
FORMAT: ebook
PAGES: 304
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Readers Copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really enjoyed this book and the characters. This may be book 17, but it can still be read as a stand alone. I really enjoyed that it felt like two stories in one and it was played out seamlessly.
The ending felt a little rushed, I wished then end with Nightwine was drawn out just a bit more!
The ending felt a little rushed, I wished then end with Nightwine was drawn out just a bit more!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Fantastic installment in one of my favorite series. An old enemy returns--how will Barker and Llewelyn triumph this time?
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC--all opinions are my own.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC--all opinions are my own.
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