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Barker & Llewelyn #16
Season of Death
In late Victorian England, private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn find themselves in the middle of the deadly chaos when powerful forces align to take over London's criminal underworld.
"Antony Ferguson transports listeners to London.... The sharp writing and Ferguson's narration capture all the bizarre twists and turns."—AudioFile on Heart of the Nile
Private enquiry agent Cyrus Barker, along with his partner Thomas Llewelyn, has a long, accomplished history - he's worked with all aspects of society, from the highest (including the Crown and the government) to the lowest (various forces in London's underworld). He's been the target of murder attempts, character assassination, bombings and attacks upon his closest associates but never has he and his agency partner Thomas Llewelyn faced such destruction and potential disaster.
The sudden collapse of a railway tunnel in the East End of London kills dozens and shuts down services all over the city. Meanwhile, a mysterious beggar calling herself “Dutch” guides Barker and Llewelyn to an attempt by a powerful aristocrat to take over London's criminal underworld. With a missing heiress and a riot at a women’s shelter acting as distractions designed to stop the duo from getting to the truth, Barker must relentlessly fight to reach the trust while Llewelyn wonders how a simple beggar woman can be the catalyst for such destruction.
A Macmillan Audio production from Minotaur Books.
"Antony Ferguson transports listeners to London.... The sharp writing and Ferguson's narration capture all the bizarre twists and turns."—AudioFile on Heart of the Nile
Private enquiry agent Cyrus Barker, along with his partner Thomas Llewelyn, has a long, accomplished history - he's worked with all aspects of society, from the highest (including the Crown and the government) to the lowest (various forces in London's underworld). He's been the target of murder attempts, character assassination, bombings and attacks upon his closest associates but never has he and his agency partner Thomas Llewelyn faced such destruction and potential disaster.
The sudden collapse of a railway tunnel in the East End of London kills dozens and shuts down services all over the city. Meanwhile, a mysterious beggar calling herself “Dutch” guides Barker and Llewelyn to an attempt by a powerful aristocrat to take over London's criminal underworld. With a missing heiress and a riot at a women’s shelter acting as distractions designed to stop the duo from getting to the truth, Barker must relentlessly fight to reach the trust while Llewelyn wonders how a simple beggar woman can be the catalyst for such destruction.
A Macmillan Audio production from Minotaur Books.
368 pages, Paperback
First published April 22, 2025
About the author
Will Thomas
85 books1,137 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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April 3, 2025
London, England in November of 1895 comes to life in the sixteenth book in the Barker and Llewelyn series by Will Thomas.
Season of Death
features two private enquiry agents, Cyrus Barker and his business partner Thomas Llewelyn. It is set largely in the London East End which was a working class and immigrant area that was rife with poverty, overcrowding, crime, and the associated social issues during this time of the Victorian era.
Hired by merchants to catch the criminals robbing stores at night, they encounter a beggar who provides a lead to them. Meanwhile Sir Hugh Danvers and his wife hire them to find her sister, an American heiress, who has been missing for six months. When the collapse of a railway tunnel kills dozens and shuts down utility and other services across much of the city and a riot at a women’s shelter occur, Cyrus and Thomas are spread thin dealing with the fallout.
Cyrus is competent, stoic, stubborn, crafty, and has his own code of ethics. He supports several charities, including the Mile End Mission women’s shelter. However, he lacks a sense of humor and doesn’t enjoy taking orders. He also doesn’t understand sarcasm. Thomas is the junior partner with a wife and a young daughter who is teething. He seems to have the ability to vex authority figures and doesn’t get along with several people in their circle of acquaintances. He handles the office accounts and writes the reports as well as takes notes during their investigations.
The author has a writing style that quickly brings readers into the well-paced story that is sprinkled with humor. The atmosphere and setting are fabulous in this novel. I could easily visualize the characters and the place as well as the danger that abounded. What starts as a simple investigation quickly escalates into an inquiry into the criminal underworld of the East End. There are several twists and a couple of surprises along the way as well as one or two predictable elements. I enjoy learning something new in historical fiction novels. In this one, readers get insight into police methods of identifying criminals using Bertillon cards. My main quibble is that there was one item that was not brought fully to closure, although there is some insight into what was probably going to happen. Themes include crime, poverty, corruption, murder, domestic violence, women’s rights, and much more.
Overall, this is a moving, well-written, and entertaining novel with great characterization as well as some pivotal suspenseful moments and several action scenes. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Although this can work as a standalone novel, reading the series in order will show character growth and changes over time as well as information on relationships among the reoccurring characters. Readers who enjoy historical mysteries set in Victorian England will likely enjoy this book.
St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books and Will Thomas provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for April 22, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
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My 4.27 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Hired by merchants to catch the criminals robbing stores at night, they encounter a beggar who provides a lead to them. Meanwhile Sir Hugh Danvers and his wife hire them to find her sister, an American heiress, who has been missing for six months. When the collapse of a railway tunnel kills dozens and shuts down utility and other services across much of the city and a riot at a women’s shelter occur, Cyrus and Thomas are spread thin dealing with the fallout.
Cyrus is competent, stoic, stubborn, crafty, and has his own code of ethics. He supports several charities, including the Mile End Mission women’s shelter. However, he lacks a sense of humor and doesn’t enjoy taking orders. He also doesn’t understand sarcasm. Thomas is the junior partner with a wife and a young daughter who is teething. He seems to have the ability to vex authority figures and doesn’t get along with several people in their circle of acquaintances. He handles the office accounts and writes the reports as well as takes notes during their investigations.
The author has a writing style that quickly brings readers into the well-paced story that is sprinkled with humor. The atmosphere and setting are fabulous in this novel. I could easily visualize the characters and the place as well as the danger that abounded. What starts as a simple investigation quickly escalates into an inquiry into the criminal underworld of the East End. There are several twists and a couple of surprises along the way as well as one or two predictable elements. I enjoy learning something new in historical fiction novels. In this one, readers get insight into police methods of identifying criminals using Bertillon cards. My main quibble is that there was one item that was not brought fully to closure, although there is some insight into what was probably going to happen. Themes include crime, poverty, corruption, murder, domestic violence, women’s rights, and much more.
Overall, this is a moving, well-written, and entertaining novel with great characterization as well as some pivotal suspenseful moments and several action scenes. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Although this can work as a standalone novel, reading the series in order will show character growth and changes over time as well as information on relationships among the reoccurring characters. Readers who enjoy historical mysteries set in Victorian England will likely enjoy this book.
St. Martin’s Press – Minotaur Books and Will Thomas provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for April 22, 2025. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------------------------------
My 4.27 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
September 24, 2025
Another rip snorting adventure from Will Thomas!!
Here Barker and Llewelyn Enquiry Agents deal with multiple cases from a rash of early morning break ins, to a missing heiress, a major explosion causing massive damage in London, and then we also have illegal Polish immigrants, a street woman (crawler), the Salvation Army and possible corruption in the Metropolitan police. Whew!!!! All pulled together magnificently by author Will Thomas. And even though this is book 17 in this series the characters are fresh, the plots tightly drawn and the solutions keep you guessing. Oh, and there also is an abandoned dog who finds a home in this book!!
Good work as usual Will!!!
Here Barker and Llewelyn Enquiry Agents deal with multiple cases from a rash of early morning break ins, to a missing heiress, a major explosion causing massive damage in London, and then we also have illegal Polish immigrants, a street woman (crawler), the Salvation Army and possible corruption in the Metropolitan police. Whew!!!! All pulled together magnificently by author Will Thomas. And even though this is book 17 in this series the characters are fresh, the plots tightly drawn and the solutions keep you guessing. Oh, and there also is an abandoned dog who finds a home in this book!!
Good work as usual Will!!!
March 31, 2025
It was a pleasure to revisit Barker and Llewellyn and be back in 1895 London in Season of Death. While this is definitely a mystery with lots of action, there are also plenty of opportunities to chuckle along the way. Thomas Llewelyn is the narrator, and he reflects on events and personalities they encounter on the job and on his personal life. He is the assistant investigator for Cyrus Barker, who calls their business a “private enquiry” agency.
The story starts off with action scenes of the duo tracking down and catching a ring of thieves who have been preying on small businesses in the East End. But the main story involves an American heiress who has disappeared. Barker and Llewelyn don’t get the case for several months, so tracking her down is difficult. I loved the glimpses of how both the upper classes and the lower classes lived. Telephones were around but fairly scarce and horse-drawn carriages were the rule. By the end of the book we see a rare “horseless carriage”, so times are going to change quickly!
While Llewelyn is married to a Jewish woman, we don’t get much info about the London Jewish community in this volume. It was tantalizing but left me wanting in that one respect. Barker seems to have had quite a fascinating and varied life before opening his detective agency, bits of which we read about along the way. We also learn a bit about Llewelyn’s interesting backstory.
Note: This is a long-running series but this is only my third (out of 16), so I think you can jump in without having to read all the previous books.
I mostly listened to the audiobook version which was beautifully narrated by Antony Ferguson again. He constantly smoothly switches between Barker’s Scottish accent and other accents throughout the book.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book and to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.
The story starts off with action scenes of the duo tracking down and catching a ring of thieves who have been preying on small businesses in the East End. But the main story involves an American heiress who has disappeared. Barker and Llewelyn don’t get the case for several months, so tracking her down is difficult. I loved the glimpses of how both the upper classes and the lower classes lived. Telephones were around but fairly scarce and horse-drawn carriages were the rule. By the end of the book we see a rare “horseless carriage”, so times are going to change quickly!
While Llewelyn is married to a Jewish woman, we don’t get much info about the London Jewish community in this volume. It was tantalizing but left me wanting in that one respect. Barker seems to have had quite a fascinating and varied life before opening his detective agency, bits of which we read about along the way. We also learn a bit about Llewelyn’s interesting backstory.
Note: This is a long-running series but this is only my third (out of 16), so I think you can jump in without having to read all the previous books.
I mostly listened to the audiobook version which was beautifully narrated by Antony Ferguson again. He constantly smoothly switches between Barker’s Scottish accent and other accents throughout the book.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book and to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of this audiobook. All opinions are my own.
June 17, 2026
Always a great fan of finding new authors, I was eager to read this thriller by Will Thomas. I enjoy Victorian mysteries and Thomas has done well with the series to date, set on the gritty streets of London. Barker and Llewelyn find themselves witnessing a power struggle amongst London’s criminal underworld, where no move is safe and no one is sure to survive.
The long and accomplished history of private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn is clear to many who have lived in Victorian London. Over the past decade, the agency has seen much, but it is only now that complete disaster comes knocking at their door. The collapse of a railway tunnel in the East End leaves many dead and more injured. While the news drifts on the wind, Barker and Llewelyn encounter a mysterious beggar who shares details that a powerful aristocrat wants to takeover the London criminal underworld. When smaller criminal events act as distractions, Barker and Llewelyn are prevented from chasing down the true concern. All this unfolds while the beggar goes missing, leaving a pall of worry in the agency. Barker works hard to cement needed trust while Llewelyn ponders how a basic beggar could be at the heart of all this chaos around town. Thomas delivers a gripping piece that never wanes.
The series stays poignant as Will Thomas weaves unique ideas and backhanded twists to keep the reader sated. Wonderful storytelling paves the way for another well-paced story in this series. Short chapters direct the reader, while the narrative sets a tone that is both action-packed and swift to change direction. Momentum gained, there is no time to ponder what’s happening, as the story must rush towards its climax. Thomas knows how to keep the reader guessing as they seek answers before the final page turn.
Characters keep the story sharp, as has been the case throughout the series. Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn remain key protagonists, though neither are stagnant at any point. Both enquiry agents and men of some depth, Barker and Llewelyn have earned the respect of series fans. Now full partners, they exhibit significant growth since the series' outset, while ensuring their backstories are not lost. Secondary characters are well-placed and poignant in their revelations, which emerge as the story rushes along. Will Thomas has never had an issue developing one-off and supporting characters, all of whom flavour things effective.
Plot points allow the tense moments of violence and destruction throughout this story, leaving readers to wonder how bad things might get. Thomas formulates curious events that build to a tense climax and leaves the reader full of questions until the final page turn. The story depicts so much in short order that great attention is needed to understand it all. Will Thomas has kept a grip on all aspects of this stellar series and keeps impressing with each new book. An ARC remains, which was the reason I started this binge, well worth my time and effort.
Kudos, Mr. Thomas, for a tense thriller that kept me wondering until the very end!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com
The long and accomplished history of private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn is clear to many who have lived in Victorian London. Over the past decade, the agency has seen much, but it is only now that complete disaster comes knocking at their door. The collapse of a railway tunnel in the East End leaves many dead and more injured. While the news drifts on the wind, Barker and Llewelyn encounter a mysterious beggar who shares details that a powerful aristocrat wants to takeover the London criminal underworld. When smaller criminal events act as distractions, Barker and Llewelyn are prevented from chasing down the true concern. All this unfolds while the beggar goes missing, leaving a pall of worry in the agency. Barker works hard to cement needed trust while Llewelyn ponders how a basic beggar could be at the heart of all this chaos around town. Thomas delivers a gripping piece that never wanes.
The series stays poignant as Will Thomas weaves unique ideas and backhanded twists to keep the reader sated. Wonderful storytelling paves the way for another well-paced story in this series. Short chapters direct the reader, while the narrative sets a tone that is both action-packed and swift to change direction. Momentum gained, there is no time to ponder what’s happening, as the story must rush towards its climax. Thomas knows how to keep the reader guessing as they seek answers before the final page turn.
Characters keep the story sharp, as has been the case throughout the series. Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn remain key protagonists, though neither are stagnant at any point. Both enquiry agents and men of some depth, Barker and Llewelyn have earned the respect of series fans. Now full partners, they exhibit significant growth since the series' outset, while ensuring their backstories are not lost. Secondary characters are well-placed and poignant in their revelations, which emerge as the story rushes along. Will Thomas has never had an issue developing one-off and supporting characters, all of whom flavour things effective.
Plot points allow the tense moments of violence and destruction throughout this story, leaving readers to wonder how bad things might get. Thomas formulates curious events that build to a tense climax and leaves the reader full of questions until the final page turn. The story depicts so much in short order that great attention is needed to understand it all. Will Thomas has kept a grip on all aspects of this stellar series and keeps impressing with each new book. An ARC remains, which was the reason I started this binge, well worth my time and effort.
Kudos, Mr. Thomas, for a tense thriller that kept me wondering until the very end!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com
March 12, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Apr. 22, 2025
“Season of Death” is the sixteenth instalment of the “Barker and Llewelyn” series by author Will Thomas. I loved the Sherlock Holmes vibes, with Barker being the perfect Sherlock and Llewelyn being his reliable sidekick. Being unfamiliar with the previous fifteen novels didn’t seem to matter, as I was able to jump right in and follow the two detectives on their journey.
Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn are hired to find the sister-in-law of an influential politician, even though she has been missing for more than six months and no one seems too eager to look for her. But as Cyrus and Thomas investigate, an underground tunnel in London collapses, seemingly revealing the meeting place of a secret underbelly of London society. With all of that to deal with, their search for the missing woman brings them to a woman’s shelter where a beggar woman leads them on a wild goose chase that turns out to be more fruitful than either of them expected.
“Death” is pretty much nonstop action from the get-go. With three mysteries to solve, all connected in subtle ways, the detectives are busy from the jump. Barker is very clearly neuro-divergent and Llewelyn is a new husband and father, which provides an interesting dynamic. Llewelyn is the main narrator, and both he and his partner are a unique and likable pair.
There are lots of twists and turns to weave together, but this series has clearly been running for a long time and it is clear to see why. The plot is cohesive and flows smoothly, the characters are well developed and the ending provides a reassuring conclusion to all of the plot lines.
It is indicative of the writer’s talent when a reader can jump into a series halfway through and not just be able to follow along, but actually enjoy the ride. Will Thomas has crafted a deliciously addicting series that fans of Sherlock Holmes will devour.
Expected publication date: Apr. 22, 2025
“Season of Death” is the sixteenth instalment of the “Barker and Llewelyn” series by author Will Thomas. I loved the Sherlock Holmes vibes, with Barker being the perfect Sherlock and Llewelyn being his reliable sidekick. Being unfamiliar with the previous fifteen novels didn’t seem to matter, as I was able to jump right in and follow the two detectives on their journey.
Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn are hired to find the sister-in-law of an influential politician, even though she has been missing for more than six months and no one seems too eager to look for her. But as Cyrus and Thomas investigate, an underground tunnel in London collapses, seemingly revealing the meeting place of a secret underbelly of London society. With all of that to deal with, their search for the missing woman brings them to a woman’s shelter where a beggar woman leads them on a wild goose chase that turns out to be more fruitful than either of them expected.
“Death” is pretty much nonstop action from the get-go. With three mysteries to solve, all connected in subtle ways, the detectives are busy from the jump. Barker is very clearly neuro-divergent and Llewelyn is a new husband and father, which provides an interesting dynamic. Llewelyn is the main narrator, and both he and his partner are a unique and likable pair.
There are lots of twists and turns to weave together, but this series has clearly been running for a long time and it is clear to see why. The plot is cohesive and flows smoothly, the characters are well developed and the ending provides a reassuring conclusion to all of the plot lines.
It is indicative of the writer’s talent when a reader can jump into a series halfway through and not just be able to follow along, but actually enjoy the ride. Will Thomas has crafted a deliciously addicting series that fans of Sherlock Holmes will devour.
August 6, 2026
4.5 stars - I’ve read this series from the beginning, and it’s been a long-time favorite. The last book was not a favorite, but Thomas is back on track with this outing. It’s exciting, entertaining and has left me eager for the next in the series, due out later this month.
A lot happening in this mystery, but Barker & Llewelyn eventually see the connecting threads between a missing American heiress, the devastating collapse of an abandoned railroad tunnel beneath an East End neighborhood, attacks on a mission shelter for abused women, and a secretive homeless woman. Meanwhile, on the home front, junior partner Thomas Llewelyn and his wife are setting in to their own home with their baby.
I look forward to the next adventure, this author always delivers an exciting and humorous mystery set in Victorian London.
A lot happening in this mystery, but Barker & Llewelyn eventually see the connecting threads between a missing American heiress, the devastating collapse of an abandoned railroad tunnel beneath an East End neighborhood, attacks on a mission shelter for abused women, and a secretive homeless woman. Meanwhile, on the home front, junior partner Thomas Llewelyn and his wife are setting in to their own home with their baby.
I look forward to the next adventure, this author always delivers an exciting and humorous mystery set in Victorian London.
July 3, 2025
Another satisfying tale covering the activities of Barker & Llewelyn.
October 1, 2024
Outstanding!!!!!!!!!!
August 15, 2025
I find that even though this was one of my favorite series in the beginning, I'm enjoying the books less and less with each new book. I don't understand the author's fascination with Llewellyn's wife - it's gotten to the point that her story line takes up a significant part of the book and Barker & Llewelyn are almost secondary characters.
May 5, 2025
These books just get better and better.
April 24, 2025
Season of Death is the 16th book in the historical mystery series Barker & Llewelyn by Will Thomas. I started this series a number of books in, and I immediately fell in love with it. I went back and read all I had missed. This has become one of my favorite series EVER. You would think that after this many books the series would become stale, but it hasn't in the least. In fact, this was one of my favorite books in the series. This volume stands alone, so jump right on in and start enjoying! I also listened to the audiobook along with reading so I didn't have to step away from my book, because for some reason people don't like you reading as you're driving.
It's November 1895 in London, and private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn have seen a lot in their years working together. They've worked from the top for the Crown and down to the bottom for the London Underground. But this newest case is going to be a doozy! A railway tunnel in the East End of London suddenly collapses and kills dozens of people, shutting down services all over the city. While working on a case, Barker and Llewelyn meet a beggar calling herself Dutch, and she informs them that there is an attempt by a powerful aristocrat to take over London's criminal underworld. Their search for a missing heiress and violence at a women's shelter are muddying up the works and keeping Barker and Llewelyn from learning the truth. Barker is in relentless pursuit, and Llewelyn is starting to wonder how a poor beggar seems to know a lot about what's going on.
Barker and Llewelyn are one of my favorite crimefighting duos of all time. Their personalities seem like oil and water, yet they have solved innumerable cases while working with each other. Barker is a stubborn Scot who worked his way up in the world, became rich and started London's premier private enquiry office. And for the love of all that is holy, do NOT refer to him as. a private detective! It's PRIVATE ENQUIRY AGENT. He owns a beautiful home, a garden that's the envy of all, and has worked on investigations for the highest down to the lowest of Society. He's stoic, deadly, a member of the Knights Templar and has a caring heart under a rough exterior. Llewelyn is the son of. Welsh coal miner. After losing his young wife and being set up for theft, he was put in prison. When out he sought a job with Barker and if he wasn't successful, he was planning on ending it all. But he was hired, and years later the men are partners in the agency. Llewelyn has married and has just become a father for the first time. Llewelyn, first and foremost, is a smartass. I absolutely adore him, and the humor between he and Barker always makes me laugh. The story is told from the point of view of Llewelyn. This case turned out to be one of their most difficult. It appears that because of the tunnel collapse, many heads of crime syndicates died, and someone is attempting to take over the underworld. At the same time, Barker and Llewelyn are trying to solve a string of thefts that ended in a murder, plus they are hired to find the missing sister-in-law of an aristocrat. Throw in a beggar woman - she's a "crawler", one of the worst off of beggars because she can't walk - who seems to be quite intelligent though living on the streets and seems to be involved in this complicated mess somehow, and things go from bad to worse. We learn a bit more of Barker's involvement in the Knights Templar, and of his complicated relationships with higher-ups in law enforcement. Meanwhile, Llewelyn is trying to deal with a new baby who cries all of the time, and taking care of a stray dog that's on the verge of becoming part of his family. Barker and Llewelyn are always in physical danger, and that certainly is raised a notch here! The mystery was complicated, and I was totally stunned with the climax. All of our old favorites are still here, such as Barker's Chinese friend Ho (who owns a restaurant, lives to give Llewelyn a hard time, and has his thumb in some illegal pies), Llewelyn's wife Rebecca, Barker's butler Mac, and of course Harm, Barker's dog who has a thing for chewing on Llewelyn. The only regular character not present during the story but was referenced to was Barker's woman friend Lady Ashley. I hope there are many more books for this dynamic duo. My world would be a sad - and dull - place without Barker and Llewelyn!
As I mentioned earlier, I also listened to the audiobook when I couldn't read the book. The audiobook is narrated by Antony Ferguson, who is absolutely magnificent! He captures every nuance of the story and characters, and he IS Barker and Llewelyn. He may be my favorite narrator.
I received an ARC of the book and audiobook courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
It's November 1895 in London, and private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn have seen a lot in their years working together. They've worked from the top for the Crown and down to the bottom for the London Underground. But this newest case is going to be a doozy! A railway tunnel in the East End of London suddenly collapses and kills dozens of people, shutting down services all over the city. While working on a case, Barker and Llewelyn meet a beggar calling herself Dutch, and she informs them that there is an attempt by a powerful aristocrat to take over London's criminal underworld. Their search for a missing heiress and violence at a women's shelter are muddying up the works and keeping Barker and Llewelyn from learning the truth. Barker is in relentless pursuit, and Llewelyn is starting to wonder how a poor beggar seems to know a lot about what's going on.
Barker and Llewelyn are one of my favorite crimefighting duos of all time. Their personalities seem like oil and water, yet they have solved innumerable cases while working with each other. Barker is a stubborn Scot who worked his way up in the world, became rich and started London's premier private enquiry office. And for the love of all that is holy, do NOT refer to him as. a private detective! It's PRIVATE ENQUIRY AGENT. He owns a beautiful home, a garden that's the envy of all, and has worked on investigations for the highest down to the lowest of Society. He's stoic, deadly, a member of the Knights Templar and has a caring heart under a rough exterior. Llewelyn is the son of. Welsh coal miner. After losing his young wife and being set up for theft, he was put in prison. When out he sought a job with Barker and if he wasn't successful, he was planning on ending it all. But he was hired, and years later the men are partners in the agency. Llewelyn has married and has just become a father for the first time. Llewelyn, first and foremost, is a smartass. I absolutely adore him, and the humor between he and Barker always makes me laugh. The story is told from the point of view of Llewelyn. This case turned out to be one of their most difficult. It appears that because of the tunnel collapse, many heads of crime syndicates died, and someone is attempting to take over the underworld. At the same time, Barker and Llewelyn are trying to solve a string of thefts that ended in a murder, plus they are hired to find the missing sister-in-law of an aristocrat. Throw in a beggar woman - she's a "crawler", one of the worst off of beggars because she can't walk - who seems to be quite intelligent though living on the streets and seems to be involved in this complicated mess somehow, and things go from bad to worse. We learn a bit more of Barker's involvement in the Knights Templar, and of his complicated relationships with higher-ups in law enforcement. Meanwhile, Llewelyn is trying to deal with a new baby who cries all of the time, and taking care of a stray dog that's on the verge of becoming part of his family. Barker and Llewelyn are always in physical danger, and that certainly is raised a notch here! The mystery was complicated, and I was totally stunned with the climax. All of our old favorites are still here, such as Barker's Chinese friend Ho (who owns a restaurant, lives to give Llewelyn a hard time, and has his thumb in some illegal pies), Llewelyn's wife Rebecca, Barker's butler Mac, and of course Harm, Barker's dog who has a thing for chewing on Llewelyn. The only regular character not present during the story but was referenced to was Barker's woman friend Lady Ashley. I hope there are many more books for this dynamic duo. My world would be a sad - and dull - place without Barker and Llewelyn!
As I mentioned earlier, I also listened to the audiobook when I couldn't read the book. The audiobook is narrated by Antony Ferguson, who is absolutely magnificent! He captures every nuance of the story and characters, and he IS Barker and Llewelyn. He may be my favorite narrator.
I received an ARC of the book and audiobook courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
July 29, 2026
Danzig not Gdansk in 1895!
Lazy, lazy, lazy. This is supposed to be historical fiction. Get the history correct. In 1895 the city now called Gdansk was call Danzig and was part of Germany. If the author and publisher can let such an obvious error go into the published book, future additions to this series are probably not worth reading.
Lazy, lazy, lazy. This is supposed to be historical fiction. Get the history correct. In 1895 the city now called Gdansk was call Danzig and was part of Germany. If the author and publisher can let such an obvious error go into the published book, future additions to this series are probably not worth reading.
September 5, 2025
This is the sixteenth book, in this series, and I have loved each one. This book takes you back to London in 1895. Mr .Barker, and Mr.Llewelyn are private security agents checking out the east end, as a number of business, and other establishments have been hassled, and robbed there lately. Barker the founder of the agency, and goes at life as a big bull, in a china shop would, hears a robin’s song. He finds this odd, since it is in November. They follow the sound until they uncover a heap of rags that turn out to be a crippled, starving, yet arrogant lass, that goes by the name Dutch. They do not know at the time that this certain person, will be entwined in their whole mystery, Turning in the gang, after a vigorous fight. These novels are always filled with historical information, and this was no different. A railway tunnel located in east London collapses, leaving dozens dead, and services all over London shut down. It was later learned that the leader of each gang , from all the sections divided up , were having a secret meeting, and led to their deaths, so it may have had help collapsing in on itself. Lawlessness was breaking out all over. Shootings, stabbing, thefts, and assaults. Plus a young, rich, and beautiful heiress had disappeared. Her older sister hires our favorite duo, and they jump back into the fray . The book is told by Mr. Llewelyn ‘s point of view. He has learned much from Mr Barker over the years, and without him hiring him, his life would have been bleak. He understands all that, but he has married now, and has a beautiful baby daughter, and he works long hours, and is constantly in danger, as he backs up Mr. Barker who never backs down from a fight. They search for May everywhere. There are some twists, and false leads, but I figured it out the mystery, although it was cleverly hidden. I will give out no other clues as the book is interesting, exciting, and emotional at times. It is well worth the read. I gave it 5 stars. The ending also was very good, in tying everything together.
April 26, 2025
Season of Death by Will Thomas is a Barker and Llewelyn novel, which says it all. The most stunning thing that happened in this story is when an entire district of London fell into the depths, a sinkhole, if you will. The heads if all the gangs were gathered in a meeting deep in an underground vault, when it happened. One might have expected warring over who would replace each of them, but it all happened as kind of a footnote to the bigger story. Lord Hugh Danvers and his wife appeared at the office to request help in finding Lady Danver’s sister, who had disappeared months earlier. At the end, Lord Danvers gave them a photo. It lounged in Thomas’ pocket for several says until the maid discovered it, gave it to Rebecca, and his world imploded. She identified it as a well known courtesan and assumed, he, Thomas Llewelyn, had been cavorting with her. After that thought was quelled, they had one of their first breaks in the case, which was a complicated one.
Clive Barker is a strong and clever man who has lived a full life. He has been everywhere and done everything including taking Thomas under his wing. What that meant was many sleepless night and much doing of unpleasant things. It also meant travel and interviews and standoffs with the police, which then, like now, have corruption as part of everyday life. Most were good men, working hard, but not all. Finding the missing woman was more challenging than it should have been and in doing so, uncovered a network of greed and lack of concern for other people. It was a great story. Worthy of Barker and Llewelyn. Great characters. An excellent and complex mystery. Good pacing and perfect timing.
I was invited to read Season of Death by St Martin;s Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StMartinsPress #WillThomas #SeasonOfDeath
Clive Barker is a strong and clever man who has lived a full life. He has been everywhere and done everything including taking Thomas under his wing. What that meant was many sleepless night and much doing of unpleasant things. It also meant travel and interviews and standoffs with the police, which then, like now, have corruption as part of everyday life. Most were good men, working hard, but not all. Finding the missing woman was more challenging than it should have been and in doing so, uncovered a network of greed and lack of concern for other people. It was a great story. Worthy of Barker and Llewelyn. Great characters. An excellent and complex mystery. Good pacing and perfect timing.
I was invited to read Season of Death by St Martin;s Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StMartinsPress #WillThomas #SeasonOfDeath
March 18, 2025
Review of Season of Death
I received an early release copy of Season of Death from the publisher for review. As a long-time reader of this series, I highly recommend starting with book one if you're new to it. This allows you to truly appreciate the characters' remarkable growth and evolution throughout the narrative.
It delivers an intriguing story, skillfully weaving a mystery within a mystery. As expected in this historical London setting, the narrative is rich with political intrigue, romantic entanglements( Isn't there always?), and, of course, murder. The author crafts a compelling plot that kept me guessing until the very end.
A note on the audiobook narration: I found the narrator's pacing to be a bit slow at the default speed. To enhance the listening experience, I recommend increasing the playback speed to at least 1.25x or 1.35x. This adjustment made a significant difference, transforming what felt like a lecture into a more engaging narration. While the narrator's voice range was somewhat limited, the increased speed improved the overall flow and enjoyment of the audiobook.
Overall, is a well-written and captivating addition to the series. Though at times it seemed the main character repeated a few lines here and there. Despite the minor narration issue, which is easily remedied, the story's complexity and compelling characters make it a worthwhile read or listen for fans of historical mysteries
#netgalley
I received an early release copy of Season of Death from the publisher for review. As a long-time reader of this series, I highly recommend starting with book one if you're new to it. This allows you to truly appreciate the characters' remarkable growth and evolution throughout the narrative.
It delivers an intriguing story, skillfully weaving a mystery within a mystery. As expected in this historical London setting, the narrative is rich with political intrigue, romantic entanglements( Isn't there always?), and, of course, murder. The author crafts a compelling plot that kept me guessing until the very end.
A note on the audiobook narration: I found the narrator's pacing to be a bit slow at the default speed. To enhance the listening experience, I recommend increasing the playback speed to at least 1.25x or 1.35x. This adjustment made a significant difference, transforming what felt like a lecture into a more engaging narration. While the narrator's voice range was somewhat limited, the increased speed improved the overall flow and enjoyment of the audiobook.
Overall, is a well-written and captivating addition to the series. Though at times it seemed the main character repeated a few lines here and there. Despite the minor narration issue, which is easily remedied, the story's complexity and compelling characters make it a worthwhile read or listen for fans of historical mysteries
#netgalley
September 5, 2025
This has been one of the best series I have recently tackled, and I am so glad I took a chance on it. While I am now in the throes of "I CANNOT WAIT" for the next one in the series, I AM glad to finally be caught up with this series; it, at times, felt like I was never going to get to this one!! :-)
So much intrigue and murder in this one [a couple that were quite shocking IMO]; filled with [many] baddies [including those who REALLY knew better and deserved what they got IMO], a really great mystery [I DID figure out one thing in the mystery early on thanks to Mr. Llewelyn, but discounted it until much later and ultimately, it didn't help me {or make the mystery less than} with the overall mystery, though, in thinking about it, it should have. *GRIN* ] and storyline, and I was left, at the end, very happy to have spent time with Cyrus Barker, Thomas Llewelyn and Co.
I have loved Antony Ferguson's narration from book one and his narration has just gotten better with each new book. He does his typical excellent job here, and I was, as always, very glad to listen to him tell this story. Well done sir, very well done.
Thank you to NetGalley, Will Thomas, Antony Ferguson - Narrator, St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for providing this eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.
So much intrigue and murder in this one [a couple that were quite shocking IMO]; filled with [many] baddies [including those who REALLY knew better and deserved what they got IMO], a really great mystery [I DID figure out one thing in the mystery early on thanks to Mr. Llewelyn, but discounted it until much later and ultimately, it didn't help me {or make the mystery less than} with the overall mystery, though, in thinking about it, it should have. *GRIN* ] and storyline, and I was left, at the end, very happy to have spent time with Cyrus Barker, Thomas Llewelyn and Co.
I have loved Antony Ferguson's narration from book one and his narration has just gotten better with each new book. He does his typical excellent job here, and I was, as always, very glad to listen to him tell this story. Well done sir, very well done.
Thank you to NetGalley, Will Thomas, Antony Ferguson - Narrator, St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for providing this eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2025
3.75 stars
Fans of this long-running historical mystery series will appreciate the newest adventure. Enigmatic private enquiry agent Cyrus Barker and his irrepressible partner Llewelyn have a lot going on. They have been asked to investigate the disappearance of a toff's sister in law. Meanwhile gang activity in London is up and a tunnel collapse kills most of the head gangsters, opening the doors to bedlam. They are involved with a local women's shelter which is receiving unwanted attention from angry husbands, and they keep running in to corruption at Scotland Yard.
The usual banter between Barker and Llewelyn is always entertaining. They always feel a half a step behind in this one and seem to get beat up more than usual but we know they will triumph in the end. These books are always sneakily informative about life in Victorian England. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Fans of this long-running historical mystery series will appreciate the newest adventure. Enigmatic private enquiry agent Cyrus Barker and his irrepressible partner Llewelyn have a lot going on. They have been asked to investigate the disappearance of a toff's sister in law. Meanwhile gang activity in London is up and a tunnel collapse kills most of the head gangsters, opening the doors to bedlam. They are involved with a local women's shelter which is receiving unwanted attention from angry husbands, and they keep running in to corruption at Scotland Yard.
The usual banter between Barker and Llewelyn is always entertaining. They always feel a half a step behind in this one and seem to get beat up more than usual but we know they will triumph in the end. These books are always sneakily informative about life in Victorian England. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 29, 2025
Season of Death is another fantastic installment from Will Thomas, delivering all the sharp wit, rich atmosphere, and gripping mystery fans have come to expect. Once again, Thomas proves he's a master of historical detective fiction.
This latest entry keeps readers on their toes, with twists that never feel forced and clues that make you second-guess every assumption. One of the standout joys of the book is how it constantly leaves you guessing—just when you think you’ve figured it out, the plot takes a clever turn.
As always, Thomas introduces new characters with depth and flair, each adding fresh tension and intrigue to the ongoing series. The evolving dynamic between Barker and Llewelyn continues to shine, grounding the story with familiarity even as the mystery grows more tangled.
A must-read for fans of intelligent, atmospheric mysteries—and a thrilling ride for anyone who loves a story that won’t let them go until the final page.
This latest entry keeps readers on their toes, with twists that never feel forced and clues that make you second-guess every assumption. One of the standout joys of the book is how it constantly leaves you guessing—just when you think you’ve figured it out, the plot takes a clever turn.
As always, Thomas introduces new characters with depth and flair, each adding fresh tension and intrigue to the ongoing series. The evolving dynamic between Barker and Llewelyn continues to shine, grounding the story with familiarity even as the mystery grows more tangled.
A must-read for fans of intelligent, atmospheric mysteries—and a thrilling ride for anyone who loves a story that won’t let them go until the final page.
April 17, 2025
I so enjoyed this book! I admit - I jumped into this series at this book, but it was so easy to do and I never felt behind or like I was missing anything. That being said I will absolutely go back and read the previous books because I loved this one. I am a sucker for the detective duo made of the stoic vet and the funny more relaxed newbie. This book was a masterclass in weaving together a complex story through careful and smart detective skills, with so many twists and so many AH HA moments that kept me captivated. I am so impressed at how the story was told to bring it all together the way it does at the end. I loved so many of the characters (and the animals to be honest) and I can't wait for more!
Note: I listened to the audiobook version and the narrator did a fascinating job telling this story and bringing the time period and characters to life.
Note: I listened to the audiobook version and the narrator did a fascinating job telling this story and bringing the time period and characters to life.
March 25, 2025
November 1895 Barker and Llewelyn are employed by Lord Danvers to find his missing wealthy sister-in-law May Evans who has been missing for six months. But problems arise in their lives which include the collapse of a tunnel which killed all the London gang leaders. Was this an accident. And who is the beggar called Dutch and what is her involvement in events if all.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its interesting and likeable main characters. Who are supported by a cast of varied personalities. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its interesting and likeable main characters. Who are supported by a cast of varied personalities. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2025
Barker & Llewellyn #16.
Set in 1895.
A sociopathic peer of the realm tries to take over London’s underworld, at the same time poisoning his American heiress wife and imprisoning her equally wealthy sister. Barker and Llewellyn to the rescue, although not without numerous mishaps along the way.
Such as being beaten up and thrown into the filthy Thames by corrupt East End bobbies.
I love this series and the ever evolving relationship between enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and his partner/sidekick our narrator Thomas Llewellyn.
Thanks to Will Thomas for faithfully adhering to London street names, so I could follow the action in my A to Z.
Set in 1895.
A sociopathic peer of the realm tries to take over London’s underworld, at the same time poisoning his American heiress wife and imprisoning her equally wealthy sister. Barker and Llewellyn to the rescue, although not without numerous mishaps along the way.
Such as being beaten up and thrown into the filthy Thames by corrupt East End bobbies.
I love this series and the ever evolving relationship between enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and his partner/sidekick our narrator Thomas Llewellyn.
Thanks to Will Thomas for faithfully adhering to London street names, so I could follow the action in my A to Z.
January 7, 2025
I’m not unbiased. I love these books. I love Cyrus’s confidence and his layers. I love Thomas’s snark and world view. I love the atmospheric historical setting and the clever and well-developed mysteries. I love the depth of the supporting characters.
But you should still believe me when I say this one of the best in this series.
I received an arc from NetGalley
But you should still believe me when I say this one of the best in this series.
I received an arc from NetGalley
November 10, 2024
A new Barker & Llewelyn is always a reason to celebrate and this was another fantastic installment. I loved the mystery that was the character of Dutch. My only complaint about this series? Thomas needs to write faster! :)
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced review copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced review copy.
April 26, 2025
Always a Good Read
Love Barker & Llewelyn! Plot moves right along with interesting twists and turns. Will Thomas keeps me guessing and even when I figure it out, the stories are still riveting.
Love Barker & Llewelyn! Plot moves right along with interesting twists and turns. Will Thomas keeps me guessing and even when I figure it out, the stories are still riveting.
June 7, 2025
I love these books! The stories are always so fascinating and always have a twist. The problem with finishing the most current one is that I want more.
June 26, 2025
Ratings:
Writing 4
Story line 4
Characters 4
Impact/enjoyment 4
Overall rating 4
Writing 4
Story line 4
Characters 4
Impact/enjoyment 4
Overall rating 4
August 27, 2025
3.5 Stars
November 1, 2025
This one was worth waiting for.
December 1, 2025
Wish Goodreads did half stars; I'd give this 3 1/2.
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