For Services Rendered: A Barker & Llewelyn Novel

Barker & Llewelyn #17

by Will Thomas

In 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.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Audiobook, Historical Mystery, Mystery Thriller

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 18, 2026

About the author

Librarian 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

Reviews

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to read and listen to an advance copy of For Services Rendered, the newest book in the long-running Barker & Llewelyn series by Will Thomas.

It was a pleasure to revisit Barker and Llewelyn and be back in 1896 London. I started reading the series with book 14, Heart Of The Nile, so I know you can jump in anywhere. (This book is number 17!) You get tidbits of backstory for both Barker and Llewelyn in each book.

The plot this time is a bit complex. A young Dr. Sun Yat-Sen is kidnapped in London and imprisoned in the Chinese embassy (this really happened!) and no one knows where he is. In addition, Sebastian Nightwine, Barker’s former friend turned nemesis, has turned up in London, although Barker thought he had killed him in a duel! And Barker’s ship, the Osprey, has also gone missing. So there’s a lot going on and a lot to keep track of.

Cyrus Baker is the senior member of the duo and had quite a varied life before opening his detective agency, including having grown up in China. He speaks fluent Cantonese and Mandarin. Thomas Llewelyn, who narrates these books, also has an interesting backstory. With Llewelyn having married a Jewish woman, we also get small glimpses into the London Jewish community.

I bounced between the audiobook and the ebook for this title, which was very convenient. The audiobook’s narrator, Antony Ferguson, did a fabulous job with a whole variety of British and Chinese accents. I just wish the Author's Note had been included in the audiobook. Perhaps it will be included in the final copy.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Kristina Pauls (ARC Reviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a part of a series, and that was not mentioned when I requested this novel, due to that I will not be reading and reviewing this book at this time as I do not feel as though I can accurately assess the book without having read the other books. I am rating it a 4 star as that is the general rating at this time.

PUBLISH 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.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Shaina · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Dawn Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will always love this series, even when it doesn't hit all the marks I am used to with these books.

This was a mishy-mashy of old stories and foes [some that return are quite ridiculous] and quite a bit of inane repetition [which is a new thing in this series and very unwelcome as well as getting old very quickly], but strangely, I [mostly] enjoyed being back with Thomas and Cyrus and their colorful cohorts that I found I didn't mind some of the more ridiculous plot lines and tepid ending, and was rather sad when the whole adventure was over. After 17 books, you take the good with the bad and just make it work for you and the setting, the main characters, and the overarching storyline of friendship, companionship and love seem to break through in the end.

As always, Antony Ferguson does an amazing job and I absolutely love the way he continues to tell the story of Barker and Llewelyn. This is one audiobook and its narration is always one that I am 100% looking forward to. I highly recommend him!

Thank you to NetGalley, Will Thomas, Antony Ferguson - Narrator, St. Martin's Press, and Macmillan Audio for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wild ride! This almost felt like a spy novel, with lots of secrets meetings and negotiations and plans and plots. I really enjoy Barker and Llewelyn and especially love how people are constantly underestimating them and yet they continue to shine. They really understand people and in this case the Chinese government, in order to help subvert the dirty dealings and and help someone. There is also a lot of drama with people from their past reappearing and threatening their lives, which they deal with admirably. There are a few different storylines that all converge nicely and the ending made me tear up a bit with emotion.

Note: I listened to the audiobook and I really enjoy this narrator and how he gives the "sidekick" energy perfectly, with extra brashness and also awe for the lead detective.

Thanks to the publisher for a free ARC and ALC; my thoughts and review are my own.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Services Rendered is the 17th book in the Barker and Llewelyn historical mystery and thriller series by Will Thomas. Now I started this series with book 11, and that one stood alone fine. Did I like that book? Well, I went back and bought books 1-10 on audiobook and listened to them all before book 12 came out. What does that tell you? I am hooked on this series! This is one of the best historical mystery series EVER. It's a day of celebration for me when I find a new book is being released.

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 case you have figured it out already, I absolutely loved this book. I swear the series gets better and better. We met Sebastian Nightwine, Barker's nemesis, in a prior book. He was believed dead...after all, Barker ran him through with a sword! You'd think that would have killed him, but apparently evil is not easy to overcome. I was wondering how the story of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen (a real historical person, mind you) could possibly be related to the return of Nightwine, but Mr. Thomas pulled the story together beautifully! The story was exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat. Not only were we reunited with Nightwine, but also with his assassin daughter, Sofia Ilyanova. Thomas had an indiscretion with Sofia previously (really, it wasn't his fault!), and that added to the excitement and drama. The story was, as always, excellent, but it is the superb characters that keep this series fresh and interesting. Cyrus Barker is a Scots enquiry agent (don't call him a detective!) with quite a colorful past. He spent many of his younger years in China, and we are privy to more of his background than ever before. Thomas Llewelyn is a younger Welshman who was first hired as an assistant to Barker, but he is now an equal partner. Thomas is a smart aleck. He makes it into an art form. I love Barker, but I admit Thomas is my favorite character in the series. He always has a snappy comeback, and his mouth often gets him into trouble. He is a slight man, around 5'4", and he is often underestimated. (Let me tell you, Barker puts him through his paces!). The books are narrated by Thomas. All of the regular characters make an appearance; it wouldn't be a Barker and Llewelyn novel without them! Lady Philippa Ashleigh (Barker's paramour), Rebecca and Rachel (Thomas's wife and daughter), Mac (Barker's factotum), Ho (restaurant owner, among other things), Etienne (chef), Barker's dog Harm and Thomas's dog Daisy are all here, as well as other reoccurring characters. There will be some surprises here, and some changes are coming to some characters' lives. I will be on this journey with Barker and Llewelyn as long as they are here...and I'm hoping that's a long, LONG time!

I also listened to the audiobook of For Services Rendered when it wasn't possible to use my e-reader. It is narrated by Anthony Ferguson, who has got to be one of the most talented narrators ever. He IS Barker and Llewelyn. His narration really hightens my pleasure in these books.

I received an ARC of this 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.

[Matt · Rating 5 out of 5]

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Will Thomas, and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

When this ARC landed in my lap, I made a decision that seemed both ambitious and necessary: read the entire series before tackling this seventeenth installment. Sixteen novels later, I can confidently say that the journey was well worth the effort. Will Thomas has crafted one of the most consistently entertaining historical mystery series in print today, and this latest entry stands among its strongest offerings yet.

Set against the gritty and vividly rendered backdrop of Victorian London, the novel reunites private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn as they face challenges from both the past and present. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen arrives in London in 1896, carrying dreams of reform and revolution while being relentlessly pursued by agents of the Qing Secret Service. When he is abducted and imprisoned within the Chinese Embassy, Barker and Llewelyn are drawn into a dangerous search to locate him before he can be spirited back to China and executed.

Complicating matters further is the shocking revelation that Sebastian Nightwine—one of the series’ most formidable adversaries—is not only alive, but operating openly in London. Protected by powerful interests and aided by his daughter, Sofia Ilyanova, Nightwine launches a calculated campaign against Barker and those closest to him. As political intrigue, international espionage, and personal vendettas collide, Barker and Llewelyn find themselves facing perhaps their most dangerous enemies to date.

Will Thomas once again demonstrates his mastery of pacing and storytelling. Short, purposeful chapters propel the narrative forward, while unexpected twists and shifting alliances ensure that readers remain fully engaged. The story balances action, suspense, and historical detail with remarkable precision, building momentum steadily until an explosive and deeply satisfying climax. Thomas keeps readers guessing throughout, withholding key answers until exactly the right moment.

One of the series’ greatest strengths continues to be its characters. Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn have evolved significantly since their first appearance, yet they remain entirely true to themselves. Their partnership feels richer and more nuanced with each installment, reflecting years of shared experiences and hard-earned trust. Thomas also excels at developing supporting characters, and the returns of Nightwine and Sofia Ilyanova inject fresh tension into the narrative while forcing long-buried secrets and rivalries back into the spotlight.

The plot is layered with intrigue, danger, and emotional stakes. Historical events blend seamlessly with the ongoing series mythology, rewarding longtime readers while delivering a compelling standalone mystery. Moments of violence and suspense are handled expertly, creating a sense of uncertainty that lingers until the final pages. Thomas demonstrates an impressive command of both his historical setting and the extensive continuity he has built over seventeen novels, weaving together threads from earlier books while continuing to expand the world in meaningful ways.

This ARC was the catalyst for an unforgettable series binge, and it could not have delivered a better payoff. Will Thomas continues to raise the bar for historical mystery fiction, offering readers another thrilling adventure filled with intelligence, heart, and suspense.

Kudos, Mr. Thomas, for a thriller that has got to be one of the best in the series!

Love/hate the review?
An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

[Emma Rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

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!

[Emily Myers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, this was fun. What I didn’t know going into this book is that it’s the seventeenth in a long-running series!! I wish I had known that going in - there are a lot of characters with a clearly deep and rich history - some extra information would have helped me understand our heroes and the choices they make.

That said, I still very much enjoyed this. Very in the Sherlock Holmes-mode of things, we have an irascible genius detective (enquiry agent Cyrus Barker) and the sidekick documentarian (Thomas Llewelyn) who are working to both solve a crime (the disappearance of Sun Yat-Sen) and stop their lives from imploding (the return of villain Sebastian Nightwine). I feel as though the second storyline would have had more punch for me, if I had the history of exactly how ruthless Nightwine is, along with his history with our two main characters. What I did enjoy, was that the mystery was very well plotted. Once the foundation was set, it really picked up speed. By 25% in, I was worried and attached to Barker and Llewelyn and was actively wishing for them to come out on top. That’s hard to do, when you’re a new reader to a much-beloved series. That said, I’d still recommend starting from the beginning so that the stories land with more punch.

One thing I really appreciated throughout the novel was how the characters spoke. It really felt like I was in Victorian England, with turns of phrases, quips and asides, as well as cadence that I would expect from that time period. While modern vernacular in the past can be fun, that was not the point of this book, and I really felt that I was dropped into a particular world. I could see and feel the textures of it through the word usage itself. It’s what kept me coming back for more. Additionally, the storylines wove in politics and real-world elements from that time. It was done so deftly - we really feel like we are reading an account of people who lived and moved throughout these events. Great job by Will Thomas!

My only criticisms for this book I believe stem mainly from the fact that I’m coming into this series late. Some of the mystery elements felt so fantastical - an enemy back from the dead? Improbable connections to real-world events at that time? How everything so neatly pans out? I’m guessing these are hallmarks of the series, but after the grounding in language and timeline, I just couldn’t get as into it as I’d like. I’m hoping that by starting the series from the beginning I’d be more attached.

Big thank you to NetGalley for this e-ARC!

[Holly Taggart · Rating 4 out of 5]

This may honestly be the most 'mainstream' book I've read and reviewed all year.

Will Thomas' Barker and Llewelyn series set in Victorian England is a long running series with Barker- an eccentric Enquiry Agent sort of rescuing Llewelyn in his misguided youth and eventually making him a partner in the Enquiry business. (private detectives).
I started this series several years ago and while I always had a few misgivings about the possible accuracy of Barker's ties to China, and the Chinese in London during this time, I also have to admit, I didn't really have an knowledge to ascertain if it was accurate or not. It turns out, based on some conversations and the mildest of google research that Thomas appears to have done his research.
SO- I'm not going to spoil the story but I might reveal a bit more than normal.
In this novel we meet historical figure Sun Yat Sen. (Yes the Sun Yat Sen we recall from history classes). He's on a trip to London when he finds himself rather indisposed and missing. In fact, he has been kidnapped. Who better to look into this than Barker and Llewelyn Enquiry Agents? Barker speaks Cantonese and has deep ties within the London Chinese population. Llewelyn is, as always, along for the ride.
And what a wild ride it is!!! An arch-rival nemesis arrives after being declared dead, adding even more stakes to the mystery. Llewelyn's by now raising a young family that must be protected, and Barker's mysterious lady friend becomes more prominent in this novel.
There is a fair amount of swashbuckling, gun slinging, and adventures on the river with the historic River Police. Interspersed, long time readers of the series will be delighted with the back story that Llewelyn is FINALLY able to squeeze out of the reticent Barker! This was the bit that I adored the most. In addition, Llewelyn has a bit of an addition to his family that was most unexpected, and also delightful in it's own way.
Antony Ferguson does the narration for this novel and I appreciated that he was able do all of the accents without exaggerating them, making it a fun an interesting listen that flowed easily through my ears. Many Thanks to Macmillan audio for this copy.
If this piques your interest but you have not read the entire series, rest assured, Thomas does a nice job of summing up the situation, so that the reader can read this as a stand-alone.

[Stacey (Bookalorian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review - Fiction - Historical Mystery
Title: For Services Rendered by Will Thomas
⭐ Star Rating: 4 ⭐
Vibe Check: PASS (Victorian London is once again proving it was an absolutely exhausting place to live.)

This book felt like... Sherlock Holmes wandered into an international spy thriller and realized absolutely everyone was lying.

Poor Cyrus Barker.

The man thought his greatest enemy was dead.

Turns out…

Sebastian Nightwine missed the memo. 😂

This time Barker and Thomas Llewelyn are juggling far more than one investigation. A missing revolutionary, the Chinese secret service, political conspiracies, the British government, and an old enemy who's decided revenge sounds like a fun hobby.

Honestly…

Could everyone just let Barker solve ONE normal case?

Apparently not.
One of my favorite things about this series is still the partnership between Barker and Llewelyn. Barker is intimidating, brilliant, and always seems to be three moves ahead of everyone else, while Llewelyn keeps the story grounded with his loyalty and heart. They're one of those detective duos that just works.

Will Thomas also has a gift for making Victorian London feel alive. The historical details never felt overwhelming, and weaving the real-life story of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen into the mystery added another layer of intrigue without taking away from the investigation.

Tropes included: historical mystery, Victorian London, private investigators, political conspiracy, international espionage, master detective, dangerous nemesis, loyal sidekick, and revenge.

Did they deliver? Absolutely. The mystery was clever, the stakes felt high, and Nightwine's return made everything feel personal.

This book made me feel: invested, suspicious of absolutely everyone, and very thankful I don't have an arch-nemesis who keeps refusing to stay dead.

😈 Petty Complaint... There were a few moments where the political side of the story slowed things down just a little. I wasn't bored... I was simply waiting for Barker to get back to intimidating people.

Overall, For Services Rendered is another strong installment in the Barker and Llewelyn series. Clever mysteries, fantastic characters, plenty of twists, and enough danger to remind me that Victorian London was basically one giant health and safety violation.

Four stars. Sebastian Nightwine really needs to learn that "presumed dead" is not supposed to be a temporary condition.

[Barbara Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara’s rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Series: Barker & Llewelyn #17
Publication Date: 8/18/26
Period: Victorian London
Number of Pages: 312

It was a pleasure to sit down and listen to Anthony Ferguson’s smooth, mellifluous delivery of Will Thomas’ latest Barker & Llewelyn novel. The pacing was just right, and the distinct voices he gives each character felt almost like old friends saying, “Welcome back!”

If you’ve followed the series, you’ll know that Cyrus Barker’s missionary parents moved the family to China when he was very young. Through a tragic set of circumstances, Barker finds himself orphaned, alone, and fending for himself in China. Because of his background, Chinese characters, history, and events have been woven into many of the books in this series. This story was particularly interesting to me because it features a very young Dr. Sun Yat-Sen and incorporates a fictionalized account of some of his real-life events. He isn’t the entire focus of the story, but he is a major part of it, and I loved that aspect of the book.

I would categorize this book as more of an action/adventure than a traditional mystery because we know who the bad guys are from the very beginning. What we don’t know is how Barker and Llewelyn will outsmart them and save Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, along with several of Barker’s good friends and associates who escaped from China with him. They all have something else in common: the Chinese government has placed a sizable bounty on their heads. And yes, I mean literally—their heads!

This is probably my favorite book in the series so far. It is fast-paced and features some of the deadliest villains Barker and Llewelyn have faced. They not only have to contend with the brutish and deadly Chinese Imperial guards, but also a cunning and dangerous villain—or two—from a previous book. And imagine their shock when a dead man shows up at one of their favorite restaurants…with Prince Albert!

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical mysteries with strong, compelling characters, plenty of action, and a mystery that keeps Barker and Llewelyn constantly on their toes. Anthony Ferguson’s narration makes this an especially enjoyable listen.

I voluntarily read/listened to an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

There comes a point in a long-running mystery series when you are no longer reading for the plot, but to see what your favorite characters are getting up to these days. That point for me in the Barker and Llewellyn mystery series passed a long time ago, so I don't really care that the villain of the story was dredged up from a past he should have stayed behind in, and then was under-utilized in this installment. I was more interested in the effects his appearance would have on Barker and Llewellyn's lives, and I was not disappointed.

In this seventeenth installment of the Barker and Llewellyn series, we meet a young Chinese man who wrote a letter that got him into a lot of trouble. Dr. Sun Yat-Sen is a revolutionary in the making, but only if he doesn't get killed first. While visiting London, he is kidnapped and held against his will while awaiting transfer to China, where he will surely be executed by the government he opposes. Barker and Llewellyn are hired to find him, but an old enemy, Sebastian Nightwine, seems to have risen from the dead to thwart their plans and put their friends' lives in danger. While they are on the case, our dynamic duo must dodge agents of the Chinese government, royal officials who have turned on them, and of course, their old enemy.

Though they face plenty of danger, this isn't the most interesting case they have encountered. Earlier books have plunged them into the darker depths of what people are capable of, but as I mentioned earlier, at this point I'm not reading these books for the plot. What I'm interested in is Thomas' development as an enquiry agent, Barker's development as a human being, and what all their other friends and acquaintances are up to. How will the agency adapt as they approach the twentieth century? Will Barker ever tie the knot with his paramour? How will Thomas' life change now that a plot thread from an earlier novel has been firmly woven into the story?

As long as these characters keep developing, I will keep reading about them even if I don't find the mystery to be incredibly compelling. However long the series carries on, I will be happy to tag along on Thomas Llewellyn's adventures.

Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the advance copy for review.

[Angie Boyter · Rating 4 out of 5]

History and Mystery!
Set in Victorian London, For Services Rendered follows detective Cyrus Barker and his assistant Thomas Llewelyn, who narrates the book, as they face a double challenge. First, Barker learns that Sebastian Nightwine, a man that Barker thought he had killed in a duel, is apparently alive and eager for revenge. Barker and Llewelyn also get a new client, Dr. James Cantile, who asks for their help in locating a young Chinese doctor he has been advising, a man named Dr. Sun Yat-sen (Yes, THAT Sun Yat-sen!). Sun Yat-sen was a resident of Hawaii but he was concerned about his ancestral home and had protested the actions of China’s Imperial government. He had been missing for three days.
Barker and Llewelyn undertake the investigation, which has some very interesting and complex aspects. It does, indeed, appear that Sun Yat-sen has been kidnapped and may be headed for a trip to China. That alone would have been enough to make it a very interesting read, but the involvement of the believed-dead Sebastian Nightwine adds to both the complexity and the danger to the point that Barker and Llewelyn send their families out of town.
This episode in Sun Yat-sen’s life is pure fiction, but as the investigation takes place readers learn a lot of interesting information about Sun Yat-sen and about China during that era. There is an Author’s Note at the end to fill readers in on Sun Yat-sen’s life.
This is the seventeenth book in the Barker and Llewelyn series. I have read eight of them and they all offer a gripping story of suspense and investigation combined with a fascinating glimpse into some event in history. I highly recommend them. I suggest you not jump into the series at this point, though, but begin at the beginning to get acquainted with Barker and Llewelyn and the other characters. They do not have to be read in order, though, and I look forward to filling in the gaps in my reading of the earlier instalments!
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley and Minotaur Books.

[JerrieGayle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A strong historical mystery with classic detective vibes and an excellent audiobook performance.

This is the seventeenth installment in the ‘Llewelyn and Barker’ historical mystery series, set in Victorian England. The story is told primarily through Thomas Llewelyn’s first-person perspective, with a handful of third-person chapters following the historical figure Dr. Sun Yat-sen.

Although this was my first time reading the series, I had little trouble following the story. That said, I would recommend reading the books in order, as there are a few ongoing plot threads that longtime readers will likely appreciate even more. Barker and Llewelyn immediately reminded me of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, with a partnership that balances intellect, loyalty, and distinct personalities.

The novel weaves together multiple mysteries, including a compelling missing-person investigation alongside a larger storyline that appears to span the series. The pacing kept me engaged, the twists arrived at just the right moments, and the supporting cast added depth throughout. I also appreciated the way Victorian history was naturally incorporated into the mystery, enriching the setting without slowing the story.

I experienced this as an immersive read, following along in the ebook while listening to the audiobook. Anthony Ferguson’s narration was excellent. His distinct character voices and authentic accents brought the cast to life and added another layer of enjoyment to the experience.

I recommend this to readers who enjoy historical mysteries, Victorian settings, and detective duos in the tradition of Sherlock Holmes. I’ll definitely be going back to the beginning of the series to experience Barker and Llewelyn’s adventures from the start.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for the advanced listening copy and to St. Martin’s Press for the advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own and based on an ALC and ARC, which may differ slightly from the final published version.

[Auđur · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.

Unfortunately, this one just wasn’t for me. I can absolutely appreciate Will Thomas’s writing, and there is no question that a great deal of historical knowledge and research has gone into For Services Rendered. The writing itself was never my problem.

My first mistake was going into this one blind 🫣 because I didn’t realize this was book 17 in the series. I think, for me at least, there was so much backstory that I felt I was missing, so I never really felt like I fully got into it. This is a slow-burn, watch-me-work-the-case kind of book rather than what I would consider a traditional mystery or thriller.

There is quite a bit of politics and history woven throughout the story, which is actually something I normally enjoy. Give me politics inside a good mystery and I’m happy. Here, though, I felt like I got plenty of the politics but not enough of the mystery.

I kept waiting for that feeling of having something to solve, or for the suspense to really kick in, and for much of the book it just never quite happened for me. I think I went into this expecting more of a traditional historical mystery/thriller, while this felt much more like historical fiction with elements of suspense.

The part I loved was Sofia and her dynamic with Thomas, their history together, and how that all plays into Thomas’s relationship with Rebecca. Now that was interesting. 😂 Whenever that part of the story came into focus, I felt the tension and intrigue I had been missing elsewhere in the book. I honestly would have loved more of it.

I do wonder whether longtime readers who already know and love these characters will have a very different experience with this book than I did. There is clearly a well-established world here, and I can see why the series has such loyal readers.

For me, though, it simply wasn’t quite the mystery I was hoping for. The writing is good, the historical and political elements are clearly well researched, but as someone who reads primarily for the mystery, I needed more mystery. 😊

[Caitlin Gonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is something wonderfully comforting about returning to a long-running mystery series and finding that the characters still feel like old friends. For Services Rendered, the seventeenth Barker & Llewelyn novel, brings Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn back for another complicated adventure through Victorian London.

The main mystery incorporates the real historical events surrounding Sun Yat-Sen into the fictional investigation, creating a fascinating blend of history, political intrigue, and mystery. I particularly enjoyed this aspect of the story because the historical details never felt like they were simply dropped into the narrative to show off research. Instead, they became an important part of the mystery itself. Thomas clearly knows how to make Victorian London feel like more than a backdrop. The period details, along with the inclusion of real historical figures and events, give the story an immersive quality that fans of historical mysteries will appreciate.

As always, one of the biggest strengths of the series is the relationship between Barker and Llewelyn. Barker's intelligence, eccentricities, and almost infuriating ability to remain several steps ahead are nicely balanced by Llewelyn's observations and dry humor. Llewelyn's narration gives the story plenty of personality, and his occasional snarky commentary is one of the things that makes this series so enjoyable.

My one complaint is that the mystery itself wasn't difficult to unravel. Still, the characters, historical elements, and larger story more than made up for that.

I would recommend reading the earlier books if you want the full impact of the characters and their history; this installment can still be enjoyed by newcomers.

If you enjoy Victorian mysteries, historical fiction, Sherlock Holmes-style investigations, political intrigue, and eccentric detectives with wonderfully complicated partnerships, add this to your TBR.

Overall, I rate this novel 4 out of 5 stars.

[Janine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the seventeenth in the “Barker and Llewelyn” mystery series. I think it can be read as a stand alone - but I still recommend for better appreciation of these characters, reading others in the series is preferable. It’s a fine historical mystery though.

The intrepid detectives are searching for the missing Sun Yat-Sen who is visiting 19th C London. Sun’s mentor, Dr. Castlie engages the pair after Sun doesn’t show up for a meeting. Sun is being pursued by Chinese agents. Meanwhile the duo have learned their nemesis, whom they thought dead, Sebastian Nightwine, has turned up in London. It turns out Sun is being held at the Chinese Embassy for his stance on reform of the Chinese government and Nightwine may be involved. Nightwine knows of the Chinese bounty on Barker’s head from his former sailing days and seeks to return Cyrus Barker to China to obtain the reward. Barker and Thomas Llewelyn are furiously trying to free Sun so he is not returned home for execution.

The story is actually based on a true event. Sun cane to London in 1896 (the year this book is set) and was kidnapped by agents of the Qing dynasty and held captive at the Chinese legation at Portland Place. Sun managed to get a note to Dr. Cantlie (Sun’s former tutor and friend) and following intense pressure by the British government and the public, he was released after twelve days. This made Sun an international celebrity and he even wrote a book about this experience, Kidnapped in London. He returned in 1911 shortly before a revolution that overthrew the Qing government. The Author’s Note at the end provides a chronology of Sun from 1893-1911.

The book does a nice job around the events of Sun’s kidnapping. I enjoyed learning the new term “enquiry agent” - private detective in today’s terminology. I liked both Barker and Llewelyn and the mystery being based on an actual historical was perfect for a history nerd like me.

This is a perfect book for lovers of complex historical mysteries.

My thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for granting me access to this ARC.

[Heather M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coolest thing first: a young Sun Yat-Sen is a key character in this book! It's the first time he's appeared in any neo-Victorian fiction that I have read, and I say this as an avid reader of neo-Victorian fiction. I'd rate this as a 4 for story plus an extra point added for plausibly weaving fact and fictional characters together and for highlighting a historic figure once such a celebrity in England that a wax statue of him was included in Mme. Tussaud's.

All of Thomas's stories bring to life a Victorian London with a broader historical context and a more multifaceted population than we often see depicted. Chinese and Jewish characters play a key role in Barker and Llewellyn's personal lives, and this book returns us to London's Chinese community, vividly described earlier in the series. The story opens with an event based in fact: Sun, exiled from China, actually did visit England in 1896, where he was kidnapped and secretly held captive by the Chinese legation, who saw him as a threat to the Manchu dynasty. Much adventure ensues.
I won't spoil what happens after that, but Bygone China made a fascinating video about the incident,: https://youtu.be/H1KnFfvEg-8?si=frGlwhcxOLq2Lxjq.

If you haven't read any of the books in the series, start at the beginning: Some Danger Involved. That's when a down-on-his-luck Thomas Llewelyn first meets Cyrus Barker, a private inquiry agent who will change his life. While each book contains its own mystery & adventure, the characters' backstories play an important role, adding depth and context. That context is particularly important in this story, where antagonists from an earlier installment return with a vengeance. A lot of vengeance, actually.

It was a treat to get to read (listen to) an advance copy of this book—thank you, NetGalley!

[Joanne Spence · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Services Rendered by Will Thomas is a Barker and Llewelyn novel featuring, as usual, issues popping up from Barker’s past. He was not a young man and had led an interesting life. The case they had accepted was to locate a young Chinese doctor, Sun Yat-sen, who had disappeared. They were hired by his mentor, Dr Cantlie. The issue was with an ex-friend of Barker, a man named Nightwine. At one time they had been partners. As Barker’s friend began disappearing, he intuited that Nightwine was here to gather people wanted by the Chinese government, all with hefty bounties. Since Nightwine was always in debt, it seemed he was looking for a large payday. So, Barker and his friends, and Dr Sun Yat-sen. It was a difficult investigation as Nightwine was a friend of the crown prince. It was also difficult because of having to deal with government bureaucracy, both English and Chinese. But, Barker was nothing if not clever.

Barker is beyond intelligent and has many contacts and may people who owed him favors. Llewelyn had a wife and a daughter, and not much if a past, but some. The mystery was good. The characters were variety and all interesting. There was violence and some terror and a surprise ending, one which didn’t become obvious until nearly the end. I love this series. It is so Victorian. This is a terrific book.

I was invited to read For Services Rendered by St Martins Press. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #StMartinsPress #WillThomas #ForServicesRendered

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

“For Services Rendered,” by Will Thomas, Minotaur Books, 320 pages, Aug. 18, 2026.

It is October of 1896. Private investigators Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn are told that Barker’s longtime nemesis, Sebastian Nightwine, previously believed dead, is alive and in London. Barker’s cook, Etienne Dummolard, who also owns a restaurant, saw Nightwine.

Dummolard tells Barker, then he and his wife flee to France for safety. Barker advises Llewelyn to send his wife, Rebecca, and their daughter out of London, too.

Meanwhile, Dr. James Cantlie arrives at Barker’s office. His friend, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, is missing. Yat-Sen, a would be reformer and revolutionary, is running away from China's Imperial Qing Secret Service, who has placed a bounty on his head for his political activities. Cantlie hires them to find the missing Sun Yat-Sen.

This is the 17th in the series. The author has a writing style that brings readers into the well-paced story. The relationship between Barker and Llewelyn, who is the narrator, is good. And of course, Dr. Sun Yat- Sen was a real person who founded the Republic of China and served as its first president. This is a well-written and entertaining series, but you can read “For Services Rendered” as a stand-alone novel.

I rate it four out of five stars.

In accordance with FTC guidelines, the advance reader's edition of this book was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for a review.

[Michael Godwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Services Rendered is an absorbing historical mystery that brings Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn into one of their most dangerous investigations yet. Set in London in 1896, the novel combines private investigation, political intrigue, international espionage, and personal danger as the detectives are confronted with the shocking return of Sebastian Nightwine, a longtime enemy believed to be dead.

The mystery becomes even more compelling when Barker and Llewelyn are hired to locate Sun Yat-Sen, who has been captured by agents of China's Imperial Qing Secret Service and imprisoned in the Chinese Embassy. With multiple powerful forces pursuing their own agendas, the investigators must navigate a complicated web of enemies while trying to protect their associates and uncover the truth. The historical setting adds depth to the suspense, making the investigation feel both richly atmospheric and genuinely consequential.

Readers who enjoy historical mysteries, Victorian-era investigations, espionage, political intrigue, detective partnerships, and richly researched suspense should find For Services Rendered particularly compelling. The combination of Barker and Llewelyn's established relationship, a formidable returning adversary, and the historical presence of Sun Yat-Sen gives the novel strong appeal for longtime series readers while offering plenty of intrigue for readers discovering this world.

[Tarissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS must have been how it felt to be living at the same time as the esteemed genius of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, always awaiting with bated breath the next Sherlock Holmes publication. THIS is the closest that my "old soul" self will feel the privilege of waiting on Conan Doyle's next printed words arriving at my doorstep. I am so lucky to have stumbled upon Will Thomas's Barker & Llewelyn a few years ago. I really can't believe this guy is a fellow Okie. He vividly paints these scenes of gritty Victorian London so perfectly! For me, this is a seamless jump from a Conan Doyle novel to a Will Thomas novel.

One of Barker's old adversaries has returned in this book! Not just any adversary either -- specifically, Sebastian Nightwine, who has already died by Barker's hand once before. So how can he be walking around London now? A captivating mystery, with danger at every turn for our favorite detective duo. The plot climaxes during a foggy chase on the River Thames! Talk about the highlight of a moody Victorian London mystery novel. Yes, please!

Due to some of the topics broached, as a conservative reader myself, I would recommend this book for adults, or at least ages 15 and up.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley, but was not required to leave a positive review.

[Steven Conger · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Ivy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to thank Netgalley, Will Thomas (author) and Minotaur Books (Publisher) for the ARC copy of this book.

Having not read any of the previous books in this series I had a bit of a problem getting to know the main characters. But once I had gotten use to the way Barker and Llewelyn did things I was able to get a better picture of them. They are well fleshed out and have a very close relationship.

This book is set in London in 1896. Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn are private detectives (Private Enquiry Agents) who find their world completely turned around when they find that a man they thought was killed in a duel several years ago, shows up in London. They have no idea how he survived but assume that he will now come looking for them out of revenge.

Then they are hired to find Dr. Sun Yal-Sen who has gone missing. He is an actavist from China where there is some unrest over the present government. They have no idea if he is alive or abducted or what has happened to him.

The mystery is well written and kept me turning pages to see what would happen next. Would they be able to evade the dead/alive man or would he get to them first?

Would they be able to find the Doctor? And would he be alive when/if they did find him?

[Dee Furey · Rating 4 out of 5]

For Services Rendered: A Barker & Llewelyn Novel is a fast paced historical mystery in a series. In fact, this is the 17th book in the series, and my first in this series. Can you jump in and read the 17th book? Yes, you can, as long as you are okay with sussing out some of the backstory on your own. You pretty much can from the context clues. Llewelyn is our narrator and we have his POV of the story. These characters have grown and changed over the course of this series, which I learned since looking into the series, and that is something I really appreciate. It is set in Victorian era London and in this case, there is both trouble in China, a possible revolution, and that trouble is brought to London. And, a character from a past story ( or stories) is resurrected and he presents a clear and present danger to Barker and Llewelyn and the important people in their lives. I love the writing and I thought this was a solid mystery and I love the historical fiction aspect. I had the advance listener copy courtesy of Net Galley and Macmillan Audio - thank you so much. The audiobook narrator was Antony Ferguson and I thought he was excellent. I plan to read more books in this series. This book is out Tuesday, August 18, 2025.

[Thio Moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.