Deadly Sacrifice

by Carla Simpson

Tense and atmospheric, Deadly Sacrifice is a Victorian historical mystery of two investigators, two cases, and a single deadly scheme that draws them both into its center.

Brodie has taken up the position of Director of the newly formed CID—a secret agency tasked with tracking a dangerous foreign terrorist network. Mikaela, meanwhile, takes on an inquiry for a friend of her great-aunt, whose grandson has been murdered.

As Brodie hunts the thread that leads to the terrorists, Mikaela is drawn deeper into a young man's death in which nothing is as it seems. Then, in a chilling turn, their two cases begin to converge—pulling Brodie and Mikaela into a deadly design that neither one may survive.

Perfect for readers who
– Victorian historical mystery and detective duos
– A determined inquiry agent and her CID partner
– Tense, atmospheric, and full of intrigue
– Twin investigations and a deadly conspiracy

Genres: Historical Mystery

246 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 25, 2026

About the author

Carla Simpson also writes as Quinn Taylor Evans.

Reviews

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25/5 stars

Say it ain't so. Judging from the author's note at the end of the book this series is about to come to its conclusion. Which is a real shame as it's kept me entertained with both its storylines and characters which is all a reader wants from their favorites.

While I did enjoy this particular outing, I almost felt that the end might be near (I believe there is one more scheduled for Brodie & Mikaela...I hope so). This story had a bit of a different feel to it. While yes, the duo has worked cases separately before and yes, those typically end up tying into one another, this one centered around Brodie taking a new full-time job foregoing his private investigation partnership with his wife altogether. And while Mikaela is supportive as she continues on with a murder case on her own (I particularly liked how she handled her new circumstances here), there are lonely nights and a lack of communication to deal with in their new situation.

I do appreciate the author's push to reflect real issues that couples face both personally and as a twosome, and she has been adept at that mission. But to be honest, the premise of Brodie stepping back from his career to pursue a more "prestigious" job with the government just seemed a bit ingenious to me. I've always seen him as an everyman, content with his situation and not particularly ambitious excepting to solve his cases and strive to be a good human. And as things came to a head following the denouement, he almost seemed to become another person that I didn't recognize. Something (I STILL do not know what) took place that caused an about face that took him and Mikaela reeling into another reality. I was left scratching my head with a touch of whiplash thrown in by the ending. And I'm hoping with the final book (fingers crossed on one more) that all will be explained/hashed out as I've come to love these two and wish them only the best in their HEA.

Still, this was a good addition to the series with a couple of interesting plots and some screen time for both Rupert and Great Aunt Antonia. I'm looking forward to seeing how things play out from here.

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a story. I have read all the books in this series, and each one was wonderful. This one is very different for several reasons. Brodie has been offered a position with the new C.I.D. department. Director of the Criminal Investigations Department which handles threats to the crown and covert detective work. Mikaela doesn’t like or trust it but would never stand in his way. This is a great honor and opportunity for someone from the streets. The money is not as important to her as she and her sister were raised by their great aunt and never had to go without. While Brodie had to fight to have food, and a place safe to sleep while growing up. What will this new job mean for their inquiry business? She has her books which are very popular and in demand. While he was meeting with the CID, she had taken a case for a friend of her aunts. They have worked separate cases before but not like this. He will have to work from the CID office for long hours and can’t say anything about what he is working on. As she investigates the murder of Lady Ellsworth's grandson, Thomas who died after and assault. His twin Anthony and him were identical twins. With help from Mr. Cavendish and Rupert the hound, she gains much information on what the young man was like. Unfortunately, Brodie is gone a lot, and she is left on her own. As clues come together, there is a lot of surprising information. Brodie in his new job ends up being gone for months without her knowing much about how he is. What will this new job mean to them as a couple, their business and each other? You will need to grab a copy to find out the ending is quite surprising. Carla has a letter for us at the end which is good and sad as this series will end soon. There will be a new series with some of the characters from this series. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.

[Pranav Bhatnagar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a captivating historical mystery, and I loved how effortlessly it combines murder, conspiracy, romance and the atmosphere of Victorian London. Mikaela immediately drew me in because she is intelligent, observant and wonderfully fearless, with a determination that makes her impossible not to admire. Brodie brings a completely different energy, carrying the experience of a former police inspector while slowly revealing a much softer side through his relationship with Mikaela. Their connection adds such a lovely emotional layer to the investigation, especially because they understand and challenge each other in equal measure. I particularly enjoyed the investigative details, the handwritten clues, the questions surrounding Thomas Ellsworths murder and the growing sense that something much larger is hiding beneath the surface. The historical setting is beautifully atmospheric too, giving the story a wonderful sense of time and place without taking attention away from the mystery. What I enjoyed most was the intelligence behind the investigation. Small details matter, conversations matter, and even something as simple as a signature can suddenly change the way everything looks. The story kept making me curious about what was really happening without giving away its answers too easily. There is also a wonderful emotional warmth beneath the danger, especially in the relationship between Mikaela and Brodie, which gives the darker parts of the story a human centre. This felt like a mystery written with patience, character and genuine affection for its world, and I found myself completely invested in discovering where the trail would lead.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve really enjoyed Carla Simpson’s Angus Brodie and Mikaela Forsythe mystery series. Every book pulls me in with its suspense and keeps me turning the pages. In Deadly Sacrifice, things feel a little different because Brodie has stepped into a new role as Director of CID, a new agency chasing a dangerous foreign terrorist network.

Brodie’s first mission takes him far from Mikaela, who is busy investigating the murder of a young man—the grandson of a close friend of her great-aunt’s friend. I love how Mikaela follows her instincts and sharp investigative skills to solve the case. But I missed seeing her and Brodie working side by side. Their easy partnership felt distant this time, and I worried about their future together. Watching Mikaela search for new purpose in her writing while Brodie was away made me feel for her. Just when I was starting to lose hope, a surprise twist lifted my spirits.

The author gives the sense that Brodie and Mikaela’s journey is coming to a close, and I’ll be sad to say goodbye. But I’m excited to see Lily Montgomery step into the spotlight to solve mysteries of her own—I can’t wait to see where Simpson takes us next.

Familiar faces like Aunt Antonia, Rupert the loyal hound, and Mr. Cavendish bring warmth and charm to the story.

If you enjoy mysteries filled with suspense, memorable characters, and unexpected turns, this series is well worth reading. I closed the book with a smile, already eager for the next adventure.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a fan of Ms Simpson's was lucky enough to get early copy if her latest Brodie & Mikaela mystery. We find Brodie trying out a possible high position in new terrorist investigstive branch for Britain which leaves Mikaela on the outside trying to know what's going on with him. Her aunt asks Mikaela to investigate a murder of one of her friend's grandsons, who has a minutes older twin brother (& heir to family title). Was ahead of Mikaela for once in figuring out part of her mystery. Wanted more of an inside look at what was going on with Brodie's relationship with the Home Secretary as it relates to his possible director position with CID but that may unfold more in the next story or maybe not. This new position for Brodie, if accepted, would impact his investigation services that he & Mikaela undertake which is an important part of their relationship. The wind up of the two mysteries seemed a bit rushed &, at least for me, lacking its usual clarity, but enjoyable nonetheless. I enjoyed their separate investigative journeys but missed them working together as a team. Theirs is a challenging relationship so their journey as a couple is captivating part of each of their stories in the series & this one maybe more so. Once again, overeager for their next story. Also hoping more interaction between them and Lily Montgomery & Monro.

[Brenda Y · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Sacrifice by Carla Simpson (If I could give this book 10 Stars I would)

The main characters, Mikaela & Brodie, Independence meets Stubbornness with a dash of Empathy. They are equal in many ways. Their strengths & weaknesses balance each other.

Victorian England is a Grand time-period. The descriptions of society, fashion, architecture, new technologies, etc. are not overly done, it is necessary to the story. This entire series is full of twists and turns this Installment was more than I expected. The case that Mikaela has starts with a favor asked of one of Aunt Antonia oldest friends. Reeling from her grandson’s murder. What lies underneath that the MET couldn’t discover? Brodie offered a big promotion & his involvement with that takes him elsewhere. Many decisions to think about.

This Venture has well rounded prose inserted with just enough humor when needed and the seriousness that is there is not over dramatized. This episode as in all the mystery/cases are thought out, with descriptions & interesting details to keep you enthralled so you don’t put down. I started the book late last night and decided at 11:00 had to get some sleep and finished it today. (The laundry can wait.)

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 17 of Carla Simpson’s Angus Brodie and Lady Mikaela Forsythe Mysteries did not disappoint. In this one, each of them work on separate cases until they intersect. At the same time, their relationship is deepening and their dynamics become more complicated with the new role Brodie is offered.

Brodie is offered a big promotion to take on a new position as Director of the newly formed CID - secret agency tasked with tracking a dangerous foreign terrorist network as his first assignment and Mikaela is hired by one of Aunt Antonia’s oldest friends to solve the mystery of her grandson’s murder. He is the younger of the twins and will not be heir to the family title. There is romance, humour and chilling bits to the investigation as it progresses, which kept me interested and unable to put the book down till the end. The ending was a surprise to me and rather unexpected. I thoroughly enjoyed this, although I prefer when Brodie and Mikaela work together on a case, I would still recommend it. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.

[Naomi Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Sacrifice, Book 17 in Carla Simpson’s Angus Brodie and Mikaela Forsythe Murder Mystery series, is another thoroughly enjoyable installment filled with mystery, danger, and the familiar characters fans have come to love.

This time, Brodie decides to take on a new position—one that threatens the work he and Mikaela have always done together. As their professional paths begin to separate, an intriguing question emerges: Will their separate work create a rift between them, or can their partnership withstand the change? That added tension gives the story a more personal dimension alongside the murder mystery.

The usual cast is back, including Brodie, Mikaela, Aunt Antonia, Mr. Cavendish, and Rupert, making the book feel like a welcome reunion with old friends. Simpson continues to balance mystery, relationships, and engaging characters beautifully. Deadly Sacrifice is a satisfying addition to a series that remains entertaining even after seventeen books.

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This installment in the series continues to deliver everything I love about Mikaela and Brodie’s journey. Both characters show remarkable growth, and their evolving dynamic kept me reading to the end.

The plot development is excellent, weaving suspense and excitement seamlessly into the story. Carla Simpson has a gift for crafting narratives that are both thrilling and easy to follow. Her language is clear and engaging, making it effortless to immerse yourself in the world she has created.

What I appreciate most is that the series continues to bring fresh, new, and exciting stories. Deadly Sacrifice doesn’t just meet expectations—it surpasses them, keeping readers invested in both the characters and the unfolding mysteries. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a well-written, captivating suspense story!

[Pat Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brodie has an opportunity of a lifetime, especially since he is a boy from the street. Mikaela has a conundrum. Help her Aunt’ s friend, even though the son wants her to stop. This was a very interesting story in that there was really no clues to work off of and watching Mikaela work it was fascinating. But there are questions….some answered, some not. I kind of figured it out about half way through, but was extremely surprised at the ending. My heart was in my throat with the last two chapters as Brodie and Mikaela deal with their relationship. I hurt for both of them and was thrilled in reading the last page because one of Mikaela’s most important questions was answered in a very beautiful way. Be sure to read the Author’s note at the end…bittersweet moment. Thoroughly enjoyed this book!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Sacrifice (Angus Brodie and Mikaela Forsythe Murder Mystery Book 17) by Carla Simpson has Mikaela and Brodie working on different cases. The story was great and I love these characters. However, there is just more zest when they can work together. I always love how they can pull all the clues together in solving the mystery. Yet, this story kept me reading too especially in their scenes with each other. Still I can’t help but wonder about how the separate cases may be adding to some tension in the relationship. All in all, this change in their working relationship in this story has kept the series fresh, innovative and interesting. Can be read as a stand-alone story, but why would you want too when all of the books are great.

[Deborah Durand · Rating 5 out of 5]

Duality

This book is far superior to the last. Mikaela and Brodie’s journey has taken some interesting turns, especially regarding working together. In this story, we find that Brodie is working with a new Crime Investigation Division and Mikaela is working a new case solo. We anticipate that their cases will cross at some point, but each is very intriguing in their own right. Read this actioned packed double mystery supported by our dazzling duo, Cavendish, Rupert and the ever eccentric Great Aunt Antonia.
It is a terrific read…worth all of the 5 stars 🌟🌟, plus!
I have received an ARC from OHB and am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.

[NelleRenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am going to be so sad when this series ends. Mikaela and Angus have become my friends. I like their interactions, although this story did put a big stain on their relationship. The storyline has a murder overlapping with some kind of mysterious package to be sent to the continent. The secondary characters add so much to the story. It was a great read, even if I sort of figured out part of the murder mystery ahead of time.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do love this series of books. I love the characters and the mysteries.

But, this one is my least favorite. I prefer when Mikaela and Brodie work together on a case; in this book, they were each working alone. That did mean we had a lot more of the hound, who I love, but I still missed that chemistry and relationship between the two.

I always enjoy how characters come into the story to help solve the mystery.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mikaela takes on a case as a favor to her aunt. A young man who happens to be a twin is brutally murdered. He was known as the rake where his twin was considered a champion for the underdog. Brodie takes on a position for the Crown and is off on his own secret assignment. The cases somehow intertwine but Brodie is close lipped. The case goes really deep into suspicious cargo and a plan against the Crown. This story was kind of emotional as Brodie's position has them pulling apart. The story wrapped up with me wanting more. I look forward to the next book.

[Roslyn Stillman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another excellent read. I never get tired of reading this series. Although this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone because the author has put a lot of past information into the story. The characters are well written, and their relationship continues to change. The story flowed well, with a plot that kept you guessing. I look forward to the next in the series and the new spin-off series. I received this as an ARC from Booksprout and freely give my review.

[Cri · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this particular book, Mikaela and Brodie are working apart on 2 separate enquiry cases.

I like it better when they join their efforts on solving the mystery and the atmosphere was a bit gloomier than usual.

All in all, I liked the story, but I would mark this one as the least successful book in the series.

I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good read. I enjoyed the banter, and the warm feeling of love and trust between the characters, even though the MMC always worried while the FMC showed the true side of a woman who society refuses to let shine. She is daring and afraid, but courageous enough to charge ahead. The kind of heroine we all need. I’m looking forward to reading more by Carla Simpson.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angus has been offered an incredible opportunity to head a new department, meanwhile a friend of Mikaela's great-aunt wants her to investigate the murder of her grandson. So, Angus and Mikaela go their separate ways, investigating mysteries that keep them apart.
This was a really twisty, suspense filled story.
The last couple of chapters had me holding my breath, wondering what was going to happen.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dina · Rating 5 out of 5]

They've worked together for so long. Gotten comfortable with each. Started knowing what they would do or not. Now their paths are diverging, and the relationship seems to be losing while they're figuring out how to carry on. When the paths start moving away, and you can't share your thoughts, the relationship suffers, and sometimes you don't see your way. I really liked the way the end happened here, and at least there is one more book! In this series, then we go Yay for the spin off.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!

Wow I am speechless. This one was just wow. There’s so much going on and then boom it all collides together at the end. Separate cases, overlapping agendas and some really surprising twists. You gotta read it to believe it but the payoff is huge. If the series is ending it’s certainly not going quietly. Can’t see how it all wraps up in the next book (although please don’t let the next book be the last book)!!!!

[martha m.fowler · Rating 5 out of 5]

A crossroad for Angus and Mikaela

I gave this mystery a high rating because I thoroughly enjoy this series. I hope this series continues for a long time. This offering was well written, with the usual characters; however it ends with Brodie and Mikaela at a crossroad for their careers and marriage. I highly recommend this series.

[Sue Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG

I was stunned by the danger and intrigue incurred by Mikala and Brodie in their separate inquiries. It was especially engaging regarding twins, as I have twin brothers. The last chapter had heart pounding and anxiety as if I was experiencing it in real life. If this is the last book in the series, its the best yet. 5 excellent stars. Congratulations Carla Simpson

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story quickly pulled me in and kept me turning pages. This was quite a mystery and I will be watching for more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angela Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding as All the others

Definitely entertaining as it transports you to that time with the characters. Love Rupert!!!
I would re,Poland this series as a great read
Ea,h boom keeps u guessing gill that very end

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 17…

Can it be? We are deep in our Victorian investigator duo’s ongoing saga. This time, Angus has a parallel case that Mikaela is also working on. Two cases. Twice the drama and mystery.
Recommend.

[Martha Silbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly Sacrifice does not disappoint. It brings us a huge turning point in Brodie and Mikaela’s relationship and career. Of course, it left me longing for the next book in the series and I think there is one more after this one. There better be! I love this series

[terri j. mccall · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is different

There was a bit of repetition of facts, and an easy to figure out ending, quite a few grammatical errors? I not sure what was going on. Still enjoyed the characters and the interactions as time moves forward for them.

[Heike · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not my favourite book, I didn’t like that Brodie and Mikaela drifted apart and have been so cold to each other.
Was this the last book in this series? Will there be a final book? —- I hope there will be more books in this series don’t let it stop like this!

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why won't they talk honestly.

I love the relationship between Mikaela and Brodie. I would love a miracle and find Mikaela with child. It is never noted what ailment caused Mikaela to be unable to have a child.

Just my opinion.