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Moriarty Mystery Books #2
The Mark of Moriarty: Sherlock Holmes Is Dead but his Nemesis Is Not
Not yet published
Expected 10 Nov 26Doctor Clara Mendel stumbles into a mystery fit for the late Sherlock Holmes—one that might just tempt out of the shadows his surviving nemesis, James Moriarty.
This enthralling sequel to The Return of Moriarty is perfect for fans of Anthony Horowitz and Laurie R. King.
A disgraced socialite who had fled to California, Viola Blackman, is found barefoot in a snowy New York alleyway. There is no sign of how she got there, and she is too traumatized to speak. The only clue is a note found scribbled in the Bible she’s “The Arcane Society of New York holds close the fortune you seek.” But nobody knows anything about the society.
Newly qualified doctor Clara Mendel joins the city’s Sabel Club, a once thriving social club now devoted to solving the riddle of Viola Blackman. Clara is determined to help Viola speak again, but she also has an ulterior if she can solve the mysterious case, she might draw the attention of her old sparring partner, Professor James Moriarty.
But as the Sabel Club comes under a violent attack, Clara is forced to ask herself to what lengths the Arcane Society will go to preserve their anonymity.
And just how much trust can she truly place in a master criminal who disappeared not once but twice?
This enthralling sequel to The Return of Moriarty is perfect for fans of Anthony Horowitz and Laurie R. King.
A disgraced socialite who had fled to California, Viola Blackman, is found barefoot in a snowy New York alleyway. There is no sign of how she got there, and she is too traumatized to speak. The only clue is a note found scribbled in the Bible she’s “The Arcane Society of New York holds close the fortune you seek.” But nobody knows anything about the society.
Newly qualified doctor Clara Mendel joins the city’s Sabel Club, a once thriving social club now devoted to solving the riddle of Viola Blackman. Clara is determined to help Viola speak again, but she also has an ulterior if she can solve the mysterious case, she might draw the attention of her old sparring partner, Professor James Moriarty.
But as the Sabel Club comes under a violent attack, Clara is forced to ask herself to what lengths the Arcane Society will go to preserve their anonymity.
And just how much trust can she truly place in a master criminal who disappeared not once but twice?
- GenresMysteryHistorical
384 pages, Paperback
First published November 5, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Mark of Moriarty is the second book in this series. Of course I had not read the first and, in hindsight, it would havd helped. There are explanations but nothing is like reading the first in series to explain relationships and characters and back story.
That said, I ploughed on.
In this book Dr Clara Mendel is investigating the strange case of disgraced socialite, Viola Bell man, who having disappeared from her life returns out of the blue. She is found barefoot and standing in a snowy alleyway in New York. There are no footprints to give away how she got there and the only clue is a piece of paper she clutches with a strange message that may reveal the location of a great fortune.
Clara joins the Sabel Society who are committed to finding out what happened to Viola and also destroy the shadowy Arcane Society.
As you can tell, there are several convoluted threads to the story and I haven't even mentioned Clara's strange relationship to James Moriarty yet.
The story gets no less confusing throughout with chases, attacks, murders and strange symbols all making an appearance. The story does make sense by the end but I'm not entirely sure whether Moriarty plays any significant role. He is certsinly a far different character to the master criminal of the Holmes novels.
I chose this book because I love Conan Doyle's mysteries and the blurb suggested fans of Anthony Horowitz may enjoy the novel. It was entertaining to a point but the story was far too complicated at times.
I would recommend if you like a very twisty mystery. There's no real connection to Sherlock or the Moriarty of Conan Doyle apart from the occasional mention. Enjoy it as a stand alone mystery. I would like to read the first in the series to see if it helps my enjoyment though.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the digital review copy.
That said, I ploughed on.
In this book Dr Clara Mendel is investigating the strange case of disgraced socialite, Viola Bell man, who having disappeared from her life returns out of the blue. She is found barefoot and standing in a snowy alleyway in New York. There are no footprints to give away how she got there and the only clue is a piece of paper she clutches with a strange message that may reveal the location of a great fortune.
Clara joins the Sabel Society who are committed to finding out what happened to Viola and also destroy the shadowy Arcane Society.
As you can tell, there are several convoluted threads to the story and I haven't even mentioned Clara's strange relationship to James Moriarty yet.
The story gets no less confusing throughout with chases, attacks, murders and strange symbols all making an appearance. The story does make sense by the end but I'm not entirely sure whether Moriarty plays any significant role. He is certsinly a far different character to the master criminal of the Holmes novels.
I chose this book because I love Conan Doyle's mysteries and the blurb suggested fans of Anthony Horowitz may enjoy the novel. It was entertaining to a point but the story was far too complicated at times.
I would recommend if you like a very twisty mystery. There's no real connection to Sherlock or the Moriarty of Conan Doyle apart from the occasional mention. Enjoy it as a stand alone mystery. I would like to read the first in the series to see if it helps my enjoyment though.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the digital review copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Mark of Moriarty by Jack Anderson
Review by Grababookbookclub
Jack Anderson once again proves that the world of Sherlock Holmes still has fresh stories to tell. The Mark of Moriarty is an intelligent, atmospheric mystery that confidently shifts the spotlight onto literature’s most infamous criminal mastermind, Professor James Moriarty, while introducing another compelling investigation led by the determined Dr. Clara Mendel.
Set against the evocative backdrop of New York, the novel begins with an unsettling mystery—a traumatised young woman discovered barefoot in the snow, clutching a Bible containing a cryptic message about the mysterious Arcane Society. From that moment, Anderson builds a story layered with hidden societies, psychological intrigue, danger, and cleverly constructed puzzles that keep the pages turning.
What impressed me most was the balance between classic detective fiction and modern storytelling. The novel honours Arthur Conan Doyle’s legacy while confidently carving out its own identity. Moriarty remains brilliantly enigmatic—never simply a villain, but a man whose intellect continually blurs the line between justice and manipulation. Dr. Clara Mendel is equally engaging, proving herself an intelligent and compassionate protagonist who more than holds her own.
The pacing is excellent, with each revelation leading naturally to the next, and the historical setting feels rich without overwhelming the narrative. Fans of Sherlock Holmes will appreciate the many nods to the original canon, while newcomers can easily immerse themselves in this gripping mystery.
For readers who enjoy historical mysteries, secret societies, complex characters, and intricately woven detective fiction, The Mark of Moriarty delivers an engrossing and thoroughly satisfying read. It is a worthy continuation of Anderson’s Moriarty series and leaves you eager to discover where this fascinating criminal genius will appear next.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4/5 stars
“A brilliantly crafted historical mystery that breathes new life into the legendary world of Sherlock Holmes. Clever, suspenseful, and impossible to put down.”
Review by Grababookbookclub
Jack Anderson once again proves that the world of Sherlock Holmes still has fresh stories to tell. The Mark of Moriarty is an intelligent, atmospheric mystery that confidently shifts the spotlight onto literature’s most infamous criminal mastermind, Professor James Moriarty, while introducing another compelling investigation led by the determined Dr. Clara Mendel.
Set against the evocative backdrop of New York, the novel begins with an unsettling mystery—a traumatised young woman discovered barefoot in the snow, clutching a Bible containing a cryptic message about the mysterious Arcane Society. From that moment, Anderson builds a story layered with hidden societies, psychological intrigue, danger, and cleverly constructed puzzles that keep the pages turning.
What impressed me most was the balance between classic detective fiction and modern storytelling. The novel honours Arthur Conan Doyle’s legacy while confidently carving out its own identity. Moriarty remains brilliantly enigmatic—never simply a villain, but a man whose intellect continually blurs the line between justice and manipulation. Dr. Clara Mendel is equally engaging, proving herself an intelligent and compassionate protagonist who more than holds her own.
The pacing is excellent, with each revelation leading naturally to the next, and the historical setting feels rich without overwhelming the narrative. Fans of Sherlock Holmes will appreciate the many nods to the original canon, while newcomers can easily immerse themselves in this gripping mystery.
For readers who enjoy historical mysteries, secret societies, complex characters, and intricately woven detective fiction, The Mark of Moriarty delivers an engrossing and thoroughly satisfying read. It is a worthy continuation of Anderson’s Moriarty series and leaves you eager to discover where this fascinating criminal genius will appear next.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐4/5 stars
“A brilliantly crafted historical mystery that breathes new life into the legendary world of Sherlock Holmes. Clever, suspenseful, and impossible to put down.”
August 31, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the advance copy of this The Mark of Moriarty.
Once I realised this was a sequel, I listened to the audiobook of the first book, The Return of Moriarty. If you’re looking purely for a mystery to solve, a reading of the first book is not necessary; you’ll still be able to play along with Clara and The Sabel Club on their quest to figure out how exactly Viola Blackman ended up in a New York alley seemingly out of thin air.
However, if you’re more of a character-driven reader (as I am myself), then I’d highly recommend reading the first book as well as it gives a lot of background for the characters and what’s motivating them.
Clara Mendel has travelled to New York after her adventures in Bavaria and securing her future as a Doctor. What appears to be an opportunity of a new beginning, far from the happenings of Schloss Alber, are actually an infatuation with the notorious and nefarious James Moriarty. Surely, having been bested by his departed enemy in Germany, he will be looking to tie up any other loose ends Sherlock has left behind and thus Clara begins her wait; weaving herself into the centre of the mysteries surrounding The Arcane Society.
I enjoyed this book more than The Return of Moriarty, which could have been in part to physically reading it rather than listening to the audiobook but I think it was more to do with the fact that the characters are much more likeable in The Mark of Moriarty. You can’t help but champion for the eclectic collection of hobbyists who have come together in search of Viola Blackman. As death, danger and a certain dejected professor befall The Sabel Club, can they come together to figure out who or what is behind a list of supernatural occurrences that have begun to plague the streets of New York? Will Clara’s newfound interest in psycho-therapy help her to understand what motivates James Moriarty? Is he truly someone who can be “fixed”?
Once I realised this was a sequel, I listened to the audiobook of the first book, The Return of Moriarty. If you’re looking purely for a mystery to solve, a reading of the first book is not necessary; you’ll still be able to play along with Clara and The Sabel Club on their quest to figure out how exactly Viola Blackman ended up in a New York alley seemingly out of thin air.
However, if you’re more of a character-driven reader (as I am myself), then I’d highly recommend reading the first book as well as it gives a lot of background for the characters and what’s motivating them.
Clara Mendel has travelled to New York after her adventures in Bavaria and securing her future as a Doctor. What appears to be an opportunity of a new beginning, far from the happenings of Schloss Alber, are actually an infatuation with the notorious and nefarious James Moriarty. Surely, having been bested by his departed enemy in Germany, he will be looking to tie up any other loose ends Sherlock has left behind and thus Clara begins her wait; weaving herself into the centre of the mysteries surrounding The Arcane Society.
I enjoyed this book more than The Return of Moriarty, which could have been in part to physically reading it rather than listening to the audiobook but I think it was more to do with the fact that the characters are much more likeable in The Mark of Moriarty. You can’t help but champion for the eclectic collection of hobbyists who have come together in search of Viola Blackman. As death, danger and a certain dejected professor befall The Sabel Club, can they come together to figure out who or what is behind a list of supernatural occurrences that have begun to plague the streets of New York? Will Clara’s newfound interest in psycho-therapy help her to understand what motivates James Moriarty? Is he truly someone who can be “fixed”?
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October 27, 2026In The Mark of Moriarty, Jack Anderson brings fresh intrigue to the world of Sherlock Holmes, shifting the spotlight toward the brilliant and dangerous Professor James Moriarty. This sequel to The Return of Moriarty promises a compelling blend of historical mystery, psychological tension, and intellectual rivalry that should appeal to readers who enjoy classic detective fiction with a fresh perspective.
The mystery begins with the disturbing discovery of Viola Bellman, a disgraced socialite found barefoot in a snowy New York alley, too traumatized to speak. The cryptic message she carries—a reference to the mysterious Arcane Society of New York—opens the door to a puzzle involving hidden fortunes, secretive organizations, and potentially dangerous revelations.
At the center of the investigation is Dr. Clara Mendel, whose determination to help Viola and uncover the truth draws her into an increasingly perilous situation. Her complicated connection with Moriarty adds another layer of fascination, particularly as she begins to question whether she shares more with the notorious professor than she would like to admit.
One of the most intriguing elements of the premise is the tension between intellectual brilliance and moral ambiguity. Moriarty's return creates an unpredictable dynamic, while Clara's personal struggle suggests that the investigation may challenge not only her abilities but also her understanding of herself.
For readers who enjoy Sherlock Holmes-inspired mysteries, atmospheric historical settings, secret societies, and clever psychological puzzles, The Mark of Moriarty offers an enticing premise. Jack Anderson appears poised to deliver a mystery in which every clue leads deeper into a world of secrets, dangerous alliances, and unsettling questions about the nature of genius.
The mystery begins with the disturbing discovery of Viola Bellman, a disgraced socialite found barefoot in a snowy New York alley, too traumatized to speak. The cryptic message she carries—a reference to the mysterious Arcane Society of New York—opens the door to a puzzle involving hidden fortunes, secretive organizations, and potentially dangerous revelations.
At the center of the investigation is Dr. Clara Mendel, whose determination to help Viola and uncover the truth draws her into an increasingly perilous situation. Her complicated connection with Moriarty adds another layer of fascination, particularly as she begins to question whether she shares more with the notorious professor than she would like to admit.
One of the most intriguing elements of the premise is the tension between intellectual brilliance and moral ambiguity. Moriarty's return creates an unpredictable dynamic, while Clara's personal struggle suggests that the investigation may challenge not only her abilities but also her understanding of herself.
For readers who enjoy Sherlock Holmes-inspired mysteries, atmospheric historical settings, secret societies, and clever psychological puzzles, The Mark of Moriarty offers an enticing premise. Jack Anderson appears poised to deliver a mystery in which every clue leads deeper into a world of secrets, dangerous alliances, and unsettling questions about the nature of genius.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Mark of Moriarty is a delightful follow‑up to The Return of Moriarty, and it captures that irresistible blend of classic Sherlockian intrigue with a fresh, modern sensibility. Fans of Anthony Horowitz and Laurie R. King will feel right at home.
Jack Anderson builds a wonderfully chilly opening: a disgraced socialite found barefoot in a snowy New York alley, clutching a Bible and a cryptic twelve‑word message. It’s exactly the sort of puzzle that begs to be solved, and young Dr. Clara Mendel proves to be a compelling guide into the mystery. Clara’s determination, sharp mind, and complicated relationship with Moriarty give the story both heart and tension.
The Arcane Society, the Sabel Club, and the wider web of secrets surrounding Viola Bellman make for an engrossing read. Anderson balances character‑driven moments with clever twists, and the result feels both classic and refreshingly new. I especially enjoyed Clara’s internal struggle—her fear that she may share more in common with Moriarty than she’d like—adding a thoughtful psychological layer to the adventure.
This is a smart, stylish mystery with just the right amount of shadowy intrigue. A delectable treat for Sherlock Holmes fans and anyone who loves a well‑crafted puzzle with memorable characters. I’m already looking forward to whatever comes next in this world.
With thanks to Jack Anderson, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Jack Anderson builds a wonderfully chilly opening: a disgraced socialite found barefoot in a snowy New York alley, clutching a Bible and a cryptic twelve‑word message. It’s exactly the sort of puzzle that begs to be solved, and young Dr. Clara Mendel proves to be a compelling guide into the mystery. Clara’s determination, sharp mind, and complicated relationship with Moriarty give the story both heart and tension.
The Arcane Society, the Sabel Club, and the wider web of secrets surrounding Viola Bellman make for an engrossing read. Anderson balances character‑driven moments with clever twists, and the result feels both classic and refreshingly new. I especially enjoyed Clara’s internal struggle—her fear that she may share more in common with Moriarty than she’d like—adding a thoughtful psychological layer to the adventure.
This is a smart, stylish mystery with just the right amount of shadowy intrigue. A delectable treat for Sherlock Holmes fans and anyone who loves a well‑crafted puzzle with memorable characters. I’m already looking forward to whatever comes next in this world.
With thanks to Jack Anderson, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced review copy.
Dr. Clara Mendel has joined The Sabel Club in 1892 Manhattan, determined to uncover the mystery behind The Arcane Society, a secret group that has stirred fearful interest in New York, mostly because no one really knows who they are or what they do. They seem to be tied to mystical acts that cannot be explained, including the inciting incident - a young woman who appears in the snow out of nowhere, carrying a Bible with a vaguely ominous inscription. She hopes that James Moriarty will also be attracted by the mystery. After their previous encounter, Clara has plans for Moriarty but has not been able to locate him.
Most of the narrative is told through Clara's journal entries and historical detail of New York as well as the western territories of the United States infuse the story. The plot is intriguing but the resolution feels convoluted and the reader discovers they have been manipulated throughout. For some readers, these devices will be pure joy. For others who, from the cover art, may be a expecting a cozier historical mystery, the duplicitous nature of the storytelling and the evil that lies within may be jarring.
Dr. Clara Mendel has joined The Sabel Club in 1892 Manhattan, determined to uncover the mystery behind The Arcane Society, a secret group that has stirred fearful interest in New York, mostly because no one really knows who they are or what they do. They seem to be tied to mystical acts that cannot be explained, including the inciting incident - a young woman who appears in the snow out of nowhere, carrying a Bible with a vaguely ominous inscription. She hopes that James Moriarty will also be attracted by the mystery. After their previous encounter, Clara has plans for Moriarty but has not been able to locate him.
Most of the narrative is told through Clara's journal entries and historical detail of New York as well as the western territories of the United States infuse the story. The plot is intriguing but the resolution feels convoluted and the reader discovers they have been manipulated throughout. For some readers, these devices will be pure joy. For others who, from the cover art, may be a expecting a cozier historical mystery, the duplicitous nature of the storytelling and the evil that lies within may be jarring.
July 18, 2026
This is the first novel I have read in this series and I thoroughly enjoyed. There are lots of twists and turns and I didn’t guess any of it! I like the tense partnership between Dr Clara Mendel and Professor Moriarty which seems to mirror that of Dr Watson and Sherlock Holmes. Certainly, much of the narrative is related by Dr Mendel.
A society called Sabel is meeting to uncover the identity and whereabouts of the evil Arcane group. But this is at a cost as one by one the members of the Sabel society are attacked or murdered. This is what Clara and James investigate.
It is set in various USA locations and in Amsterdam. The big puzzle for me was has the nature of Moriarty as a master criminal changed? I felt some empathy for him which I don’t think Arthur Conan Doyle ever intended.
I read an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publishers. I will be looking out for a sequel.
A society called Sabel is meeting to uncover the identity and whereabouts of the evil Arcane group. But this is at a cost as one by one the members of the Sabel society are attacked or murdered. This is what Clara and James investigate.
It is set in various USA locations and in Amsterdam. The big puzzle for me was has the nature of Moriarty as a master criminal changed? I felt some empathy for him which I don’t think Arthur Conan Doyle ever intended.
I read an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publishers. I will be looking out for a sequel.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dr. Clara Mendel joins the Sabel Club, an organization dedicated to unravelling the enigma surrounding the Arcane Society and its connection to socialite Viola Bellman. When Clara becomes entangled in a mysterious murder, she enlists the help of Professor James Moriarty, to solve the case.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC. My review is voluntary.
Most of the novel takes place in a vividly detailed, historical New York. The characters are delightfully eccentric, and the author does a good job of bringing them to life. Moriarty does not disappoint inciting as he does both our admiration and our horror. Together, these elements create an engaging backdrop for the murder mystery.
The way the crimes are presented and resolved is clear and makes perfect sense, resulting in a satisfying read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC. My review is voluntary.
Most of the novel takes place in a vividly detailed, historical New York. The characters are delightfully eccentric, and the author does a good job of bringing them to life. Moriarty does not disappoint inciting as he does both our admiration and our horror. Together, these elements create an engaging backdrop for the murder mystery.
The way the crimes are presented and resolved is clear and makes perfect sense, resulting in a satisfying read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I started this book not realizing it was a series, and I do think that reading them in order may make a difference as this is not the first book in which Clara and Moriarty encounter each other.
I really enjoyed the premise of the mystery, a mysterious reappearance and secret society connection, as well as the eccentric cast of characters trying to solve the mystery. The storyline had many twists and turns, which made for an enjoyable read, but at times was a bit convoluted.
Overall a fun read incorporating this authors interpretation of the characters from Sherlock Holmes’s world with the addition of new and enjoyable characters.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for an ARC
I really enjoyed the premise of the mystery, a mysterious reappearance and secret society connection, as well as the eccentric cast of characters trying to solve the mystery. The storyline had many twists and turns, which made for an enjoyable read, but at times was a bit convoluted.
Overall a fun read incorporating this authors interpretation of the characters from Sherlock Holmes’s world with the addition of new and enjoyable characters.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for an ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Brava, this was so entertaining! Even better than the first. A Sherlock Holmes-style mystery that will have you trying to piece together all the clues, but with two morally-questionable sleuths running the show in Professor Moriarty and Dr. Mendel.
I wasn't sure how a mystery like this could work but the author really nailed it. Thoroughly enjoyed and thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I wasn't sure how a mystery like this could work but the author really nailed it. Thoroughly enjoyed and thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I found this book entertaining and well written, but I would have liked more of a distinct “Moriarty” connection. Still, it had plenty of depth and a complex story for Sherlock holmes lovers. I’m contemplating going back to read the first book, as I think that might flesh out the world a bit more.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews