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Emma Langley Victorian Mystery #5
The Clockmaker’s Murder
Not yet published
Expected 30 Jul 26A murdered clockmaker. A stolen masterpiece. An observatory full of secrets.
London, 1889. When elderly clockmaker Horace Whitby is found bludgeoned to death in his workshop at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, suspicion falls on the woman who discovered his body – Charlotte Mellor, who makes her living selling the time, carrying her pocket watch from banks to shipping offices each day to keep London’s clocks in step with Greenwich.
Convinced of Charlotte’s innocence, Emma Langley and her friend Penny Green begin their own investigation. But Charlotte has not been entirely truthful with them – and the world of the Royal Observatory is far more secretive than it appears. Behind its gates lie bitter professional rivalries, a decades-old family feud, and whispers of a clock so valuable that powerful men have been scheming over it for years.
As Emma and Penny dig deeper, they attract dangerous attention. Someone has been watching them. And not everyone investigating Whitby’s murder wants the truth to come out…
Emma Langley returns in this enthralling Victorian mystery – a tale of ambition, betrayal and murder in the shadow of the Royal Observatory.
Readers love the Emma Langley Victorian Mysteries
‘This historical mystery series is fast becoming one of my favourites.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Hooked me in from the beginning!... I can’t wait to read the next book involving the dynamic crime solving duo of Emma and Penny!’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘The suspense and tension kept me on the edge of my seat and I read this book within a couple of hours. I definitely recommend this book to mystery and historical fiction fans.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I loved this book…excellent scene setting and details to create the picture of 1888 London… Excellent read… can't wait for more!’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Ms. Organ does it again! I read a lot of historical novels, and Emily Organ is one of my favorite authors.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Fabulous introduction to a new Victorian mystery series. Very atmospheric and engaging. I stayed up way too late reading this, trying to solve the mystery before Emma did. Many twists and turns with a satisfying ending, The Whitechapel Widow is grounded in history with the author's creative storytelling.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Amazing cozy mysteries… I am anxiously awaiting the next book!’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
London, 1889. When elderly clockmaker Horace Whitby is found bludgeoned to death in his workshop at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, suspicion falls on the woman who discovered his body – Charlotte Mellor, who makes her living selling the time, carrying her pocket watch from banks to shipping offices each day to keep London’s clocks in step with Greenwich.
Convinced of Charlotte’s innocence, Emma Langley and her friend Penny Green begin their own investigation. But Charlotte has not been entirely truthful with them – and the world of the Royal Observatory is far more secretive than it appears. Behind its gates lie bitter professional rivalries, a decades-old family feud, and whispers of a clock so valuable that powerful men have been scheming over it for years.
As Emma and Penny dig deeper, they attract dangerous attention. Someone has been watching them. And not everyone investigating Whitby’s murder wants the truth to come out…
Emma Langley returns in this enthralling Victorian mystery – a tale of ambition, betrayal and murder in the shadow of the Royal Observatory.
Readers love the Emma Langley Victorian Mysteries
‘This historical mystery series is fast becoming one of my favourites.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Hooked me in from the beginning!... I can’t wait to read the next book involving the dynamic crime solving duo of Emma and Penny!’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘The suspense and tension kept me on the edge of my seat and I read this book within a couple of hours. I definitely recommend this book to mystery and historical fiction fans.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘I loved this book…excellent scene setting and details to create the picture of 1888 London… Excellent read… can't wait for more!’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Ms. Organ does it again! I read a lot of historical novels, and Emily Organ is one of my favorite authors.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Fabulous introduction to a new Victorian mystery series. Very atmospheric and engaging. I stayed up way too late reading this, trying to solve the mystery before Emma did. Many twists and turns with a satisfying ending, The Whitechapel Widow is grounded in history with the author's creative storytelling.’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Amazing cozy mysteries… I am anxiously awaiting the next book!’ Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- GenresHistorical Mystery
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 30, 2026
About the author
Emily Organ
75 books670 followersEmily Organ is the author of over thirty historical cozy mysteries set in Victorian and 1920s England. Her bestselling series include the Penny Green Victorian Mysteries, the Augusta Peel Mysteries, and her newest Emma Langley Victorian Mysteries, in which a plucky widow teams up with former reporter Penny Green. She also writes the Churchill & Pemberley cozy mysteries, featuring two spirited senior sleuths. Emily’s books combine warmth, wit, and a love of history, inspired by her fascination with London’s past.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Clockmaker's Murder by Emily Organ
Synopsis /
A murdered clockmaker. A stolen masterpiece. An observatory full of secrets.
London, 1889. When elderly clockmaker Horace Whitby is found bludgeoned to death in his workshop at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, suspicion falls on the woman who discovered his body – Charlotte Mellor, who makes her living selling the time, carrying her pocket watch from banks to shipping offices each day to keep London’s clocks in step with Greenwich.
Convinced of Charlotte’s innocence, Emma Langley and her friend Penny Green begin their own investigation. But Charlotte has not been entirely truthful with them – and the world of the Royal Observatory is far more secretive than it appears. Behind its gates lie bitter professional rivalries, a decades-old family feud, and whispers of a clock so valuable that powerful men have been scheming over it for years.
As Emma and Penny dig deeper, they attract dangerous attention. Someone has been watching them. And not everyone investigating Whitby’s murder wants the truth to come out.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and author, Emily Organ for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
For those of you who enjoy reading cosy mysteries, especially ones with an historical element, then I can heartily recommend Emily Organ's Emma Langley Victorian Mystery series; of which, this one, The Clockmaker’s Murder is the fifth instalment.
Shall I begin with a quick plot overview?
Set in London in 1889, the story begins when elderly clockmaker Horace Whitby is discovered bludgeoned to death inside his workshop at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich. Suspicion quickly falls on Miss Charlotte Mellor, the woman who found his body. Charlotte, who earns her living by "selling the time", carries her trusted pocket watch between London's shipping offices and banks to ensure everyone's clocks match Greenwich Mean Time.
When Emma's landlady, Mrs Solomon, told her about her latest visit with her mother, Emma wasn't sure where they story was heading. Her mother's neighbour, Miss Charlotte Mellor was in trouble with the local police. It seems as though they thought that she'd been the one behind the recent murder of clockmaker, Horace Whitby. Mrs Solomon, ever the empath, had volunteered Emma and her close friend, former reporter Penny Green, to launch an independent investigation.
I have to say that I absolutely loved the plot for this one. In four words:- refreshing and exceptionally researched.
It was fascinating to read about the Royal Observatory Greenwich - Britain’s oldest scientific institution, founded by King Charles II in 1675. A man by the name of John Flamsteed was put in charge and given the title 'Astronomical Observator' but he later became known as the Astronomer Royal. Interestingly, the post of Astronomer Royal still exists today.
As our two Lady Detectives dig deeper into the clockmaker's demise, they discover that Charlotte Mellor, the one whom they are trying to prove is innocent, is herself keeping secrets. Delving into the tightly regulated comings and goings at the Royal Observatory—until now, a fiercely guarded, men-only domain—the duo fractures the institution's polished veneer to expose a hotbed of hidden conflict. Beneath the ticking precision of Greenwich Mean Time lies a chaotic underworld of bitter professional rivalries and a multi-decade family feud fuelled by long-standing malice. As Emma and Penny interrogate the tight-lipped academics, they catch whispers of a legendary, priceless clock: a horological masterpiece hidden in the shadows, which powerful, ruthless men have been desperately scheming to steal for years.
I might have mentioned this previously, but Organ specialises in bringing the grey, damp, smog-covered Victorian London to life - using meticulous period-accurate details – like the gaslit streets and the inner workings of historical trades (like Charlotte 'selling time'). Combined with characters like Emma Langley and Penny Green this series is a win/win for the reader.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to one of my favourite publishers, Storm Publishing 💗 for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for July 30, 2026.
Synopsis /
A murdered clockmaker. A stolen masterpiece. An observatory full of secrets.
London, 1889. When elderly clockmaker Horace Whitby is found bludgeoned to death in his workshop at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, suspicion falls on the woman who discovered his body – Charlotte Mellor, who makes her living selling the time, carrying her pocket watch from banks to shipping offices each day to keep London’s clocks in step with Greenwich.
Convinced of Charlotte’s innocence, Emma Langley and her friend Penny Green begin their own investigation. But Charlotte has not been entirely truthful with them – and the world of the Royal Observatory is far more secretive than it appears. Behind its gates lie bitter professional rivalries, a decades-old family feud, and whispers of a clock so valuable that powerful men have been scheming over it for years.
As Emma and Penny dig deeper, they attract dangerous attention. Someone has been watching them. And not everyone investigating Whitby’s murder wants the truth to come out.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and author, Emily Organ for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
For those of you who enjoy reading cosy mysteries, especially ones with an historical element, then I can heartily recommend Emily Organ's Emma Langley Victorian Mystery series; of which, this one, The Clockmaker’s Murder is the fifth instalment.
Shall I begin with a quick plot overview?
Set in London in 1889, the story begins when elderly clockmaker Horace Whitby is discovered bludgeoned to death inside his workshop at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich. Suspicion quickly falls on Miss Charlotte Mellor, the woman who found his body. Charlotte, who earns her living by "selling the time", carries her trusted pocket watch between London's shipping offices and banks to ensure everyone's clocks match Greenwich Mean Time.
When Emma's landlady, Mrs Solomon, told her about her latest visit with her mother, Emma wasn't sure where they story was heading. Her mother's neighbour, Miss Charlotte Mellor was in trouble with the local police. It seems as though they thought that she'd been the one behind the recent murder of clockmaker, Horace Whitby. Mrs Solomon, ever the empath, had volunteered Emma and her close friend, former reporter Penny Green, to launch an independent investigation.
I have to say that I absolutely loved the plot for this one. In four words:- refreshing and exceptionally researched.
It was fascinating to read about the Royal Observatory Greenwich - Britain’s oldest scientific institution, founded by King Charles II in 1675. A man by the name of John Flamsteed was put in charge and given the title 'Astronomical Observator' but he later became known as the Astronomer Royal. Interestingly, the post of Astronomer Royal still exists today.
As our two Lady Detectives dig deeper into the clockmaker's demise, they discover that Charlotte Mellor, the one whom they are trying to prove is innocent, is herself keeping secrets. Delving into the tightly regulated comings and goings at the Royal Observatory—until now, a fiercely guarded, men-only domain—the duo fractures the institution's polished veneer to expose a hotbed of hidden conflict. Beneath the ticking precision of Greenwich Mean Time lies a chaotic underworld of bitter professional rivalries and a multi-decade family feud fuelled by long-standing malice. As Emma and Penny interrogate the tight-lipped academics, they catch whispers of a legendary, priceless clock: a horological masterpiece hidden in the shadows, which powerful, ruthless men have been desperately scheming to steal for years.
I might have mentioned this previously, but Organ specialises in bringing the grey, damp, smog-covered Victorian London to life - using meticulous period-accurate details – like the gaslit streets and the inner workings of historical trades (like Charlotte 'selling time'). Combined with characters like Emma Langley and Penny Green this series is a win/win for the reader.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to one of my favourite publishers, Storm Publishing 💗 for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for July 30, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars rounded up
In 1889 London, lady detectives Emma Langley and Penny Blakely investigate the murder of clockmaker, Horace Whitby, and soon find out that his most recent masterpiece has been stolen from the Royal Observatory. The main suspect is Charlotte Mellor, the Greenwich Time Lady, who discovered his body. Emma and Penny are recruited to investigate his murder and find that it is more difficult than it seems. The story is very interesting and well thought out, with a huge twist at the end. The chapters are short and easy to read. The actual writing, however is odd at times.
For the fifth book in this series, it seems curious to me that Emma appears to be so uncomfortable making up aliases while investigating this case. She couldn't have done it without Penny. I enjoyed that Penny was progressive for the Victorian time period, solving mysteries and raising her children.
Some of the language choices used repeatedly were strange and clunky. Organ uses the phrase "the peer" multiple times, which strikes me as odd. She also used the word perambulator, when pram was also appropriate for the time period. Is this picky? Maybe. Did it irk me a bit? Yes.
I'm often drawn to historical fiction and was especially intrigued by this book because it took place in Victorian times, rather than World War II. The novel was well researched and it is apparent throughout the novel. This is the first time I've ready one of Emily Organ's books and it made sense as a standalone book, with the exception of repeated mentions of Emma smelling fires, which I'd assume happened in the previous novel.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity.
In 1889 London, lady detectives Emma Langley and Penny Blakely investigate the murder of clockmaker, Horace Whitby, and soon find out that his most recent masterpiece has been stolen from the Royal Observatory. The main suspect is Charlotte Mellor, the Greenwich Time Lady, who discovered his body. Emma and Penny are recruited to investigate his murder and find that it is more difficult than it seems. The story is very interesting and well thought out, with a huge twist at the end. The chapters are short and easy to read. The actual writing, however is odd at times.
For the fifth book in this series, it seems curious to me that Emma appears to be so uncomfortable making up aliases while investigating this case. She couldn't have done it without Penny. I enjoyed that Penny was progressive for the Victorian time period, solving mysteries and raising her children.
Some of the language choices used repeatedly were strange and clunky. Organ uses the phrase "the peer" multiple times, which strikes me as odd. She also used the word perambulator, when pram was also appropriate for the time period. Is this picky? Maybe. Did it irk me a bit? Yes.
I'm often drawn to historical fiction and was especially intrigued by this book because it took place in Victorian times, rather than World War II. The novel was well researched and it is apparent throughout the novel. This is the first time I've ready one of Emily Organ's books and it made sense as a standalone book, with the exception of repeated mentions of Emma smelling fires, which I'd assume happened in the previous novel.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another delightful mystery featuring Emma Langley and Penny Green, one of my favorite detective duos. Emily Organ has such a wonderful ability to create stories that feel both cozy and fast-paced, blending historical detail with an engaging mystery that kept me turning the pages.
This time, the murder of a clockmaker at the Royal Observatory provides a fascinating backdrop for the investigation. I loved learning about the history of Greenwich Mean Time and the role of the "Time Lady" while following Emma and Penny as they worked to uncover the truth. The historical details added so much atmosphere without ever slowing down the story.
As always, Emma and Penny are a joy to spend time with. Their intelligence, determination, and willingness to challenge the assumptions of the men around them make them impossible not to cheer for. I particularly enjoyed watching them once again outsmart the police and uncover clues others had overlooked.
The mystery itself was cleverly plotted with plenty of twists, suspects, and secrets to keep me guessing. Just when I thought I had worked everything out, another revelation sent me in a different direction. The pacing was excellent, and the ending was both surprising and satisfying.
Fans of historical cozy mysteries will find so much to love here. Charming characters, a fascinating Victorian setting, and a compelling mystery combine to make The Clockmaker's Murder another excellent addition to this wonderful series. I can't wait to see what Emma and Penny get tangled up in next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Emily Organ for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This time, the murder of a clockmaker at the Royal Observatory provides a fascinating backdrop for the investigation. I loved learning about the history of Greenwich Mean Time and the role of the "Time Lady" while following Emma and Penny as they worked to uncover the truth. The historical details added so much atmosphere without ever slowing down the story.
As always, Emma and Penny are a joy to spend time with. Their intelligence, determination, and willingness to challenge the assumptions of the men around them make them impossible not to cheer for. I particularly enjoyed watching them once again outsmart the police and uncover clues others had overlooked.
The mystery itself was cleverly plotted with plenty of twists, suspects, and secrets to keep me guessing. Just when I thought I had worked everything out, another revelation sent me in a different direction. The pacing was excellent, and the ending was both surprising and satisfying.
Fans of historical cozy mysteries will find so much to love here. Charming characters, a fascinating Victorian setting, and a compelling mystery combine to make The Clockmaker's Murder another excellent addition to this wonderful series. I can't wait to see what Emma and Penny get tangled up in next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and Emily Organ for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Clockmaker’s Murder is a wonderfully engaging addition to Emily Organ’s Victorian world — full of intrigue, sharp‑eyed heroines, and that irresistible blend of danger and curiosity that makes historical mysteries so satisfying. The setting alone is a treat: the Royal Observatory in 1889, with its quiet corridors, scientific rivalries, and secrets ticking away beneath the surface.
Emma Langley and Penny Green make a delightful investigative duo. Their determination, warmth, and wit bring a lightness to a story threaded with ambition, betrayal, and the shadowy politics of timekeeping. The mystery itself unfolds with steady, confident pacing — layered enough to keep you guessing, but never so tangled that it loses its charm.
Organ excels at creating a sense of place, and the Observatory becomes almost a character in its own right: atmospheric, secretive, and full of people with far more to hide than they let on. The tension builds beautifully as Emma and Penny dig deeper and begin to realise they’re being watched.
A clever, immersive Victorian mystery with engaging characters and a setting that feels deliciously unique. Perfect for readers who enjoy historical sleuthing with heart, humour, and a touch of danger.
With thanks to Emily Organ, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Emma Langley and Penny Green make a delightful investigative duo. Their determination, warmth, and wit bring a lightness to a story threaded with ambition, betrayal, and the shadowy politics of timekeeping. The mystery itself unfolds with steady, confident pacing — layered enough to keep you guessing, but never so tangled that it loses its charm.
Organ excels at creating a sense of place, and the Observatory becomes almost a character in its own right: atmospheric, secretive, and full of people with far more to hide than they let on. The tension builds beautifully as Emma and Penny dig deeper and begin to realise they’re being watched.
A clever, immersive Victorian mystery with engaging characters and a setting that feels deliciously unique. Perfect for readers who enjoy historical sleuthing with heart, humour, and a touch of danger.
With thanks to Emily Organ, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
June 19, 2026
Following the murder of clockmaker Horace Whitby at the Royal Observatory, the Greenwich police focus their investigation solely on the woman who discovered the body. Charlotte Mellor, a woman who makes her living by “selling” the accurate time to countless London businesses, had the misfortune of choosing that morning to ask Mr. Whitby to look at her pocket watch. Because Charlotte’s father had an altercation with Mr. Whitby over fifty years earlier—prior to her even being born—the Greenwich police decided that she must be guilty of murder. Charlotte’s actions do not help her assertions of innocence. Brought on to the case by her landlady, Emma Langley recruits her friend and former reporter, Penny Green, to help her find the person responsible for the grisly murder. Unlike the police, Emma and Penny find several suspects with motives more plausible than Charlotte. Can they figure out the killer’s identity before one of them becomes the next victim?
I read a lot of mysteries set in the Victorian era, and Emma Langley is one of my favorites. I am a big fan of the series. The books are always well-written, fast paced, and atmospheric. I also learned a lot about the Royal Observatory and how people kept time back in the 1880s. I’d heard of the real Greenwich Time Lady, and it was intriguing to read about a fictional character based on her. I look forward to Emma’s next mystery . . . and her budding romance with a certain reporter.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I read a lot of mysteries set in the Victorian era, and Emma Langley is one of my favorites. I am a big fan of the series. The books are always well-written, fast paced, and atmospheric. I also learned a lot about the Royal Observatory and how people kept time back in the 1880s. I’d heard of the real Greenwich Time Lady, and it was intriguing to read about a fictional character based on her. I look forward to Emma’s next mystery . . . and her budding romance with a certain reporter.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Clockmakers Murder
By: Emily Organ
5 Stars
When a clockmaker is killed at the Observatory, Emma and Penny are brought into to help a lady that is a suspect. After her experience with the fire, Emma is slow to heal mentally while physically being fine. The case works its magic like a charm, healing her, but putting them on a dangerous path when they eventually find the true criminal. They uncover a mystery that leads them on a very perplexing and dangerous journey.
This has been a great addition to this series. It was another intriguing mystery that spanned from the docks, to the Aristocracy, even as far as the stars. It was full of drama and danger. A web of secrets thats keeps the culprit hidden until the very end. That was a big shocker. I honestly never saw it coming.
I have grown to love these two special lady detectives. They bring a beauty and class to the scary time that surrounds them. They take the trials and tribulations with grace and I find myself missing them, like two old friends, when I finish a book. I can't wait for the next one.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Review
By: Emily Organ
5 Stars
When a clockmaker is killed at the Observatory, Emma and Penny are brought into to help a lady that is a suspect. After her experience with the fire, Emma is slow to heal mentally while physically being fine. The case works its magic like a charm, healing her, but putting them on a dangerous path when they eventually find the true criminal. They uncover a mystery that leads them on a very perplexing and dangerous journey.
This has been a great addition to this series. It was another intriguing mystery that spanned from the docks, to the Aristocracy, even as far as the stars. It was full of drama and danger. A web of secrets thats keeps the culprit hidden until the very end. That was a big shocker. I honestly never saw it coming.
I have grown to love these two special lady detectives. They bring a beauty and class to the scary time that surrounds them. They take the trials and tribulations with grace and I find myself missing them, like two old friends, when I finish a book. I can't wait for the next one.
*I want to thank Netgalley and the author for this book in return for my honest review*
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Review
June 22, 2026
Another excellent Emma and Penny case
I loved this latest installment in the historical whodunit series staring Emma Langley and Penny Blakely. It was another intriguing murder mystery with a layered storyline, puzzling discoveries, surprising plot twists, suspense, danger, and the tiniest hints of romance. Emma is a young widow who teaches piano. Following the death of her deceitful and dishonest husband, Emma and her good friend Penny have investigated several crimes together. Emma’s landlady asks them to help a friend, Charlotte, who is suspected of murdering an elderly clockmaker. This case was frustrating for the lady detectives with a recalcitrant client, a plethora of suspects, and an unclear motive. The investigation leads Emma and Penny in surprising directions accompanied by surprising revelations. The bad guy completely surprised me in this one and that’s the best kind of murder mystery for me. As always, there are smaller side story arcs and social commentary especially about women which enriches and gives greater dimension to the main plot line and the characters themselves. I love this series and the arc of Emma’s character growth. 4.5 stars.
I loved this latest installment in the historical whodunit series staring Emma Langley and Penny Blakely. It was another intriguing murder mystery with a layered storyline, puzzling discoveries, surprising plot twists, suspense, danger, and the tiniest hints of romance. Emma is a young widow who teaches piano. Following the death of her deceitful and dishonest husband, Emma and her good friend Penny have investigated several crimes together. Emma’s landlady asks them to help a friend, Charlotte, who is suspected of murdering an elderly clockmaker. This case was frustrating for the lady detectives with a recalcitrant client, a plethora of suspects, and an unclear motive. The investigation leads Emma and Penny in surprising directions accompanied by surprising revelations. The bad guy completely surprised me in this one and that’s the best kind of murder mystery for me. As always, there are smaller side story arcs and social commentary especially about women which enriches and gives greater dimension to the main plot line and the characters themselves. I love this series and the arc of Emma’s character growth. 4.5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the fifth book in the series "Emma Langley Victorian Mysteries" involving dual sleuths Penny (Green) Blakely and Mrs Emma Langley. This historical mystery series is set in 1880s London and author Emily Organ has written another thoroughly enjoyable and intriguing mystery.
This is the most complex case yet and it kept my interest throughout. The description of the Greenwich Observatory and all the clocks is fascinating. I did not guess the culprit as there were several suspicious persons.
No need to read the previous books to enjoy this one, but I would encourage it. You will find them hard to put down!
All of Emily's series contain interesting facts about London at the time woven into the plot. She does exceptional historical research for each book. They are all Highly Recommended!
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the advance reader copy.
This is the most complex case yet and it kept my interest throughout. The description of the Greenwich Observatory and all the clocks is fascinating. I did not guess the culprit as there were several suspicious persons.
No need to read the previous books to enjoy this one, but I would encourage it. You will find them hard to put down!
All of Emily's series contain interesting facts about London at the time woven into the plot. She does exceptional historical research for each book. They are all Highly Recommended!
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the advance reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoy Emily Organ’s ability to bring the time period to life for the readers. You are walking the same streets of London with the characters. You hear the Trish of the women’s skirts, see the hats on the gentleman’s heads. Penny, Emma and James are at it again running down a murderer with too many suspects. This time they delve dip into the world of astronomical proportions.
What will some people do for money, greed, power and fame?
The characters are familiar if you have read other books by Emily Organizer, though there was not much progress displayed with Jane’s and Penny, there was a focus on Emma and a certain news reporter developing. This is a cozy historical fiction mystery that will entertain you.
What will some people do for money, greed, power and fame?
The characters are familiar if you have read other books by Emily Organizer, though there was not much progress displayed with Jane’s and Penny, there was a focus on Emma and a certain news reporter developing. This is a cozy historical fiction mystery that will entertain you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Again, such a pleasure to read about these two ladies adventures as lady detectives! Even though both women are produce of the end of the 1880's, they are so refreshing with their ways of being just women! They might have chosen a less dangerous path than looking for murderers and the dangers it evolved. Luckily for us readers, they did not!
The plot was an interesting one as the murder took place in the Royal Observatory in London. I did learn a few things! A few twists and turns, some danger lead to a gripping novel! I hope to meet both ladies very soon again!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
The plot was an interesting one as the murder took place in the Royal Observatory in London. I did learn a few things! A few twists and turns, some danger lead to a gripping novel! I hope to meet both ladies very soon again!
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I have voluntarily written an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have never read this author before but I certainly enjoyed reading this.
Horace Whitby has just finished building in secret the most accurate clock ever built and is murdered.
Emma and Penny are asked to investigate by Emma's landlady as she is acquainted with Charlotte Mellor who is under suspicion but says she is innocent. What follows are lots of twists and turns as they endeavour to find the culprit. It flowed very nicely and I could not put it down wanting to get to the end and find out who was the killer.
Thanks to Netgalley and Storm publishing for my arc copy
Horace Whitby has just finished building in secret the most accurate clock ever built and is murdered.
Emma and Penny are asked to investigate by Emma's landlady as she is acquainted with Charlotte Mellor who is under suspicion but says she is innocent. What follows are lots of twists and turns as they endeavour to find the culprit. It flowed very nicely and I could not put it down wanting to get to the end and find out who was the killer.
Thanks to Netgalley and Storm publishing for my arc copy
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I find myself liking this series more and more!
Emma and Penny are a really well assorted duo of ladies detectives and each of them contributes with her brilliance to different sides of the investigation.
As usual with this author, the story is really well written and thought out, while the culprit well hidden until almost the very end.
I look forward to the next book, to see what the future has in store for Emma and Penny!
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
Emma and Penny are a really well assorted duo of ladies detectives and each of them contributes with her brilliance to different sides of the investigation.
As usual with this author, the story is really well written and thought out, while the culprit well hidden until almost the very end.
I look forward to the next book, to see what the future has in store for Emma and Penny!
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
June 17, 2026
A fascinating, fast-paced historical fiction murder read. Delightful characters, wonderful atmosphere and a shocker of an ending. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews