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The Moriarty Murders: A totally addictive cozy murder mystery series
Welcome to Moriarty & who would have thought that solving crimes is more fun than committing them?
Investigative journalist Abigail Wren has spent her career chasing cases no one else cares about. But everything changes when Abbie learns she's the last living heir to the Moriarty criminal empire (yes, that Moriarty). Now, not only has she inherited a crumbling country house, she’s also acquired a cellar full of ageing operatives who've spent their lives on the wrong side of the law. She wants none of it.
Her new “employees” aren’t too thrilled either. They want a Moriarty in charge – not someone who's only ever solved crimes, not committed them. But when Maurice Finch, one of the old guard, is found dead in circumstances nobody believes were accidental, the team wants revenge.
Abbie sees an she decides they’re switching sides and going straight to find Finch’s killer. But pulling at the threads of Finch's death turns up a second body, and a name that keeps surfacing where it shouldn't. Because someone else thinks the Moriarty inheritance should have been theirs, and he's only just getting started...
With time running out to catch the killer, can they solve the case before another body turns up? Or is the world’s most unconventional detective agency also going to be its most short-lived?
The Moriarty Murders is a cozy crime novel with a Sherlock Holmes twist that’s perfect for fans of Richard Osman, Robert Thorogood and Agatha Christie! This sharp, twisty mystery is the first in a new series from Multi-Million Selling and #1 New York Times bestselling author Tony Lee, writing as Jack Gatland.
Investigative journalist Abigail Wren has spent her career chasing cases no one else cares about. But everything changes when Abbie learns she's the last living heir to the Moriarty criminal empire (yes, that Moriarty). Now, not only has she inherited a crumbling country house, she’s also acquired a cellar full of ageing operatives who've spent their lives on the wrong side of the law. She wants none of it.
Her new “employees” aren’t too thrilled either. They want a Moriarty in charge – not someone who's only ever solved crimes, not committed them. But when Maurice Finch, one of the old guard, is found dead in circumstances nobody believes were accidental, the team wants revenge.
Abbie sees an she decides they’re switching sides and going straight to find Finch’s killer. But pulling at the threads of Finch's death turns up a second body, and a name that keeps surfacing where it shouldn't. Because someone else thinks the Moriarty inheritance should have been theirs, and he's only just getting started...
With time running out to catch the killer, can they solve the case before another body turns up? Or is the world’s most unconventional detective agency also going to be its most short-lived?
The Moriarty Murders is a cozy crime novel with a Sherlock Holmes twist that’s perfect for fans of Richard Osman, Robert Thorogood and Agatha Christie! This sharp, twisty mystery is the first in a new series from Multi-Million Selling and #1 New York Times bestselling author Tony Lee, writing as Jack Gatland.
- GenresFiction
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 27, 2026
About the author
Jack Gatland
109 books278 followersJack Gatland is the pen name of #1 New York Times Bestselling Writer Tony Lee, who has been writing in all medias for over thirty years including comics, graphic novels, middle grade books, audio drama, TV and film for DC, Marvel, BBC, ITV, Random House, Penguin USA, Hachette and a ton of other publishers and broadcasters on licenses such as Doctor Who, Spider Man, X-Men, Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica, Doctors, Wallace and Gromit and Shrek. As Tony, he’s toured the country talking to reluctant readers with his ‘Change The Channel’ school tours.
He’s currently a member of the Writer’s Guild of Great Britain, the Society of Authors, The Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers and the Crime Writer’s Association.
As Jack, he’s writing a new series of Crime Thrillers starring Detective Inspector Declan Walsh, recently seconded to the City of London Police department known as the Last Chance Saloon.
The first twelve of these, LETTER FROM THE DEAD, MURDER OF ANGELS, HUNTER HUNTED, WHISPER FOR THE REAPER, TO HUNT A MAGPIE, A RITUAL FOR THE DYING, KILLING THE MUSIC, A DINNER TO DIE FOR, BEHIND THE WIRE, HEAVY IS THE CROWN, STALKING THE RIPPER and A QUIVER OF SORROWS are available now, with book thirteen, MURDER BY MISTLETOE released in December 2022 – with further adventures continuing throughout 2023.
In addition to that, the first book in a new series of Adventure Mysteries starring Robin-Hood style con-man forger-turned treasure hunter Damian Lucas, THE LIONHEART CURSE was released in January 2022, and he has both a new series of crime procedurals, spinning out of the DI Walsh series and featuring ‘Cop for Criminals’ Ellie Reckless including PAINT THE DEAD and STEAL THE GOLD, and a new spy series, spinning out of the DI Walsh series and featuring burned MI5 agent Tom Marlowe including SLEEPING SOLDIERS and TARGET LOCKED.
He can be found at www.tonylee.co.uk and www.jackgatland.com.
He’s currently a member of the Writer’s Guild of Great Britain, the Society of Authors, The Worshipful Company of Stationers and Newspaper Makers and the Crime Writer’s Association.
As Jack, he’s writing a new series of Crime Thrillers starring Detective Inspector Declan Walsh, recently seconded to the City of London Police department known as the Last Chance Saloon.
The first twelve of these, LETTER FROM THE DEAD, MURDER OF ANGELS, HUNTER HUNTED, WHISPER FOR THE REAPER, TO HUNT A MAGPIE, A RITUAL FOR THE DYING, KILLING THE MUSIC, A DINNER TO DIE FOR, BEHIND THE WIRE, HEAVY IS THE CROWN, STALKING THE RIPPER and A QUIVER OF SORROWS are available now, with book thirteen, MURDER BY MISTLETOE released in December 2022 – with further adventures continuing throughout 2023.
In addition to that, the first book in a new series of Adventure Mysteries starring Robin-Hood style con-man forger-turned treasure hunter Damian Lucas, THE LIONHEART CURSE was released in January 2022, and he has both a new series of crime procedurals, spinning out of the DI Walsh series and featuring ‘Cop for Criminals’ Ellie Reckless including PAINT THE DEAD and STEAL THE GOLD, and a new spy series, spinning out of the DI Walsh series and featuring burned MI5 agent Tom Marlowe including SLEEPING SOLDIERS and TARGET LOCKED.
He can be found at www.tonylee.co.uk and www.jackgatland.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Abbie finds out she is the last living heir to the MORIARTY criminal empire and reacts like someone has handed her a timeshare she absolutely did not ask for. The Moriarty Murders starts with a former foster kid and investigative journalist inheriting a crumbling country house, a cellar full of aging criminals, and the small administrative nightmare of apparently being related to Sherlock Holmes’s most famous enemy.
Abbie wants none of it, which feels fair. She has spent her career chasing fraud and stories nobody else cares about, not running a criminal organization populated by people who seem personally offended that their new boss is interested in solving crimes instead of committing them. The old guard wants a proper Moriarty. Abbie is basically standing there like, best I can offer is journalism and boundaries.
Then Maurice Finch dies, and suddenly all the grumbling stops because nobody believes it was an accident. Maurice had been poking around trust accounts and auditing people who were very much hoping to stay unaudited, so Abbie immediately sees the obvious solution: if these people want revenge, they can absolutely have it in the form of evidence, interviews, and doing things legally. I could practically feel half the room reconsidering their loyalty.
The fun is watching Abbie take this whole inherited criminal machine and point it in the opposite direction. These people know how to lie, dig, intimidate, notice things, and get into places they probably should not be. Abbie knows how to follow a story until someone finally cracks. Put those skills together and suddenly this is less “crime family” and more “unlicensed detective agency with a deeply questionable onboarding process.”
And the crew is what kept me smiling. They are older, weird, competent in extremely specific ways, and clearly used to operating by rules Abbie does not share. Nobody completely trusts anybody at first, but once they start working Maurice’s death, you can feel this odd little group becoming something else. Not exactly respectable. Let’s not get carried away. But definitely more like a team than a collection of people waiting for the next Moriarty to tell them what felony is on the calendar.
The mystery itself keeps getting messier because one body becomes two, Maurice’s work starts looking more dangerous than anyone realized, and there is another name hovering around the inheritance that should not be there. Every time Abbie thinks she has figured out what kind of mess she inherited, somebody opens another cupboard and there is apparently more mess inside.
I also liked that Abbie does not suddenly become some criminal mastermind just because of her bloodline. She is still herself. She reads people, pushes where they get uncomfortable, and keeps choosing investigation over vengeance even when everyone around her has a much more traditional Moriarty suggestion available. That stubborn refusal to become what everyone expects is what made her work for me.
There is a cozy quality here, but not in the “tea and biscuits while someone politely confesses” way. It is more like, “the found family may contain former criminals, the country house is falling apart, and one of these people definitely knows how to make a body disappear, but somehow this is still weirdly comforting.” DCI Hale popping in when needed also feels like someone the series is absolutely not done with yet.
The Moriarty Murders gets 4 stars from me. I had a good time with Abbie inheriting the world’s least normal family business and immediately trying to put it on the straight and narrow while everyone around her quietly remembers they used to solve problems much faster. The mystery kept me guessing long enough, the group dynamic worked, and I am absolutely nosy about what happens when Moriarty & Co. gets another case and half the staff still considers crime a transferable skill.
Whodunity Award: For Inheriting a Criminal Empire and Turning It Into a Detective Agency Before the Basement Staff Could File a Formal Complaint
Huge thanks to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC and for introducing me to the only workplace where “we are going straight now” has to be announced to a room full of career criminals like a surprise change in benefits. I would absolutely read the next one, especially if Abbie has to explain legal evidence standards to people whose previous system was apparently just knowing a guy.
Abbie wants none of it, which feels fair. She has spent her career chasing fraud and stories nobody else cares about, not running a criminal organization populated by people who seem personally offended that their new boss is interested in solving crimes instead of committing them. The old guard wants a proper Moriarty. Abbie is basically standing there like, best I can offer is journalism and boundaries.
Then Maurice Finch dies, and suddenly all the grumbling stops because nobody believes it was an accident. Maurice had been poking around trust accounts and auditing people who were very much hoping to stay unaudited, so Abbie immediately sees the obvious solution: if these people want revenge, they can absolutely have it in the form of evidence, interviews, and doing things legally. I could practically feel half the room reconsidering their loyalty.
The fun is watching Abbie take this whole inherited criminal machine and point it in the opposite direction. These people know how to lie, dig, intimidate, notice things, and get into places they probably should not be. Abbie knows how to follow a story until someone finally cracks. Put those skills together and suddenly this is less “crime family” and more “unlicensed detective agency with a deeply questionable onboarding process.”
And the crew is what kept me smiling. They are older, weird, competent in extremely specific ways, and clearly used to operating by rules Abbie does not share. Nobody completely trusts anybody at first, but once they start working Maurice’s death, you can feel this odd little group becoming something else. Not exactly respectable. Let’s not get carried away. But definitely more like a team than a collection of people waiting for the next Moriarty to tell them what felony is on the calendar.
The mystery itself keeps getting messier because one body becomes two, Maurice’s work starts looking more dangerous than anyone realized, and there is another name hovering around the inheritance that should not be there. Every time Abbie thinks she has figured out what kind of mess she inherited, somebody opens another cupboard and there is apparently more mess inside.
I also liked that Abbie does not suddenly become some criminal mastermind just because of her bloodline. She is still herself. She reads people, pushes where they get uncomfortable, and keeps choosing investigation over vengeance even when everyone around her has a much more traditional Moriarty suggestion available. That stubborn refusal to become what everyone expects is what made her work for me.
There is a cozy quality here, but not in the “tea and biscuits while someone politely confesses” way. It is more like, “the found family may contain former criminals, the country house is falling apart, and one of these people definitely knows how to make a body disappear, but somehow this is still weirdly comforting.” DCI Hale popping in when needed also feels like someone the series is absolutely not done with yet.
The Moriarty Murders gets 4 stars from me. I had a good time with Abbie inheriting the world’s least normal family business and immediately trying to put it on the straight and narrow while everyone around her quietly remembers they used to solve problems much faster. The mystery kept me guessing long enough, the group dynamic worked, and I am absolutely nosy about what happens when Moriarty & Co. gets another case and half the staff still considers crime a transferable skill.
Whodunity Award: For Inheriting a Criminal Empire and Turning It Into a Detective Agency Before the Basement Staff Could File a Formal Complaint
Huge thanks to Simon & Schuster and NetGalley for the ARC and for introducing me to the only workplace where “we are going straight now” has to be announced to a room full of career criminals like a surprise change in benefits. I would absolutely read the next one, especially if Abbie has to explain legal evidence standards to people whose previous system was apparently just knowing a guy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I may not be completely sold on this series just yet, but Abigail Wren has my attention, and I'm absolutely sticking around to see what she does next!
"The Moriarty Murders" introduces us to investigative journalist Abigail Wren, who suddenly finds herself navigating life as an heir to Moriarty & Co. While this first installment didn't completely pull me in, I found myself becoming increasingly invested in Abigail and her journey.
Watching her find her footing as a Moriarty was easily my favorite part. She may have started out a little unsure of herself, but by the end? GIRL HAD IT. And now I need to know just how far she'll go once she fully embraces her new role.
Heather Long's narration was enjoyable and easy to follow. I'll admit, the opening had me a little nervous that we'd be following a male POV with a female narrator, but it turns out we just needed a little backstory before getting to Abigail. Once we settled into her story, the narration worked nicely.
This was a solid introduction to a series with plenty of room to grow, and I'm definitely interested in continuing!
Side note: THREE of my recent reads have featured a character named Wren.
📖 The Moriarty Murders
✍️ Jack Gatland
📚 Moriarty & Co Mysteries, Book 1
🎙️ Heather Long
🎁 NetGalley & Simon Stream Audio
📅 10/27/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
"The Moriarty Murders" introduces us to investigative journalist Abigail Wren, who suddenly finds herself navigating life as an heir to Moriarty & Co. While this first installment didn't completely pull me in, I found myself becoming increasingly invested in Abigail and her journey.
Watching her find her footing as a Moriarty was easily my favorite part. She may have started out a little unsure of herself, but by the end? GIRL HAD IT. And now I need to know just how far she'll go once she fully embraces her new role.
Heather Long's narration was enjoyable and easy to follow. I'll admit, the opening had me a little nervous that we'd be following a male POV with a female narrator, but it turns out we just needed a little backstory before getting to Abigail. Once we settled into her story, the narration worked nicely.
This was a solid introduction to a series with plenty of room to grow, and I'm definitely interested in continuing!
Side note: THREE of my recent reads have featured a character named Wren.
📖 The Moriarty Murders
✍️ Jack Gatland
📚 Moriarty & Co Mysteries, Book 1
🎙️ Heather Long
🎁 NetGalley & Simon Stream Audio
📅 10/27/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
October 22, 2026
This was such a fun cozy murder mystery!
I enjoyed following along, discovering the clues & trying to figure out the whodunit.
There are so many interesting characters! It sounds like this will be a series, so I’m excited to read more and find out what happens next!
This one is unputdownable, I flew right through it, and loved it!
I did receive both an advanced reader copy and advanced listener copy so I was able to immersive read, which is always fun. I enjoyed the narration!
Thank you NetGalley and Simon Stream!!
I enjoyed following along, discovering the clues & trying to figure out the whodunit.
There are so many interesting characters! It sounds like this will be a series, so I’m excited to read more and find out what happens next!
This one is unputdownable, I flew right through it, and loved it!
I did receive both an advanced reader copy and advanced listener copy so I was able to immersive read, which is always fun. I enjoyed the narration!
Thank you NetGalley and Simon Stream!!
October 28, 2026
It was an interesting coincidence to listen to “The Moriarty Murders” by Jack Gatland within a week of finishing “Sleuth-Hound” by Lindsey Fitzharris. Both inhabit the long shadow of Sherlock Holmes, both are thoroughly enjoyable and beyond that they could hardly be more different. “Sleuth-Hound” was full of Victorian crime scenes and enough gore to make one reconsider lunch. “The Moriarty Murders”, by contrast, is the literary equivalent of settling into a comfortable armchair with a large mug of hot chocolate topped with an irresponsible quantity of cream.
Abigail Wren's life was already complicated before being told that she is, in fact, a Moriarty. Most people would quite reasonably want a little time to adjust. Unfortunately, a murder requires her to speed up this processing her newly revealed family history. So Abigail finds herself swept into an investigation alongside a delightfully eccentric assortment of companions, discovering that she has a rather unexpected talent for solving crimes while still trying to work out exactly who she is.
Jack Gatland delivers exactly what a good cosy mystery should: an entertaining plot, likeable characters and enough twists to keep the pages turning without ever sacrificing the warmth and charm of the story. I very much enjoyed spending time with Miss Moriarty and her motley crew and look forward to hearing more from them.
Heather Long's narration is a perfect fit. Smooth, engaging and never intrusive, it complements the story so naturally that it's difficult to imagine the audiobook being voiced by anyone else.
Sometimes you want forensic pathology and dismemberment. Sometimes you want a clever woman solving murders and comfort. This was very much the latter and all the better for it.
Thank you to Simon Stream Audio, NetGalley and Jack Gatland for an advance listening copy of this book.
Abigail Wren's life was already complicated before being told that she is, in fact, a Moriarty. Most people would quite reasonably want a little time to adjust. Unfortunately, a murder requires her to speed up this processing her newly revealed family history. So Abigail finds herself swept into an investigation alongside a delightfully eccentric assortment of companions, discovering that she has a rather unexpected talent for solving crimes while still trying to work out exactly who she is.
Jack Gatland delivers exactly what a good cosy mystery should: an entertaining plot, likeable characters and enough twists to keep the pages turning without ever sacrificing the warmth and charm of the story. I very much enjoyed spending time with Miss Moriarty and her motley crew and look forward to hearing more from them.
Heather Long's narration is a perfect fit. Smooth, engaging and never intrusive, it complements the story so naturally that it's difficult to imagine the audiobook being voiced by anyone else.
Sometimes you want forensic pathology and dismemberment. Sometimes you want a clever woman solving murders and comfort. This was very much the latter and all the better for it.
Thank you to Simon Stream Audio, NetGalley and Jack Gatland for an advance listening copy of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
** “The frightening ones are quiet, because quiet means you’re not worried, not worried means you’ve done this before, and done this before means you know how it ends and he doesn’t.” **
Jack Gatland creates a tale with a unique Sherlock Homes twist in “The Moriarty Murders.”
When former foster kid Abbie Wren learns the shocking news that she’s the last living blood relative of the Moriarty — yes THAT Moriarty — empire, she’s dumbfounded. Even more surprising? She’s inherited an estate and a quirky criminal enterprise.
But when the accountant of the Moriarty Crime Empire mysteriously dies and the group feels it was not accidental, Abbie decides to help the oddball, yet effective, group to solve Maurice’s death.
What follows is a plot filled with twists and turns, with an enigmatic yet lovable crime empire and some pompous ne’er do wells. Gatland does a great job of creating a story that will keep the reader guessing until the very end as to the who and why.
This novel is a bit of Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series meets the movie “RED,” so fans of those types of stories will love “The Moriarty Murders,” which is due out Oct. 27, as well as fans of Deanna Raybourn’s “Killers of a Certain Age” series.
Five stars out of five.
Simon Stream, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
Jack Gatland creates a tale with a unique Sherlock Homes twist in “The Moriarty Murders.”
When former foster kid Abbie Wren learns the shocking news that she’s the last living blood relative of the Moriarty — yes THAT Moriarty — empire, she’s dumbfounded. Even more surprising? She’s inherited an estate and a quirky criminal enterprise.
But when the accountant of the Moriarty Crime Empire mysteriously dies and the group feels it was not accidental, Abbie decides to help the oddball, yet effective, group to solve Maurice’s death.
What follows is a plot filled with twists and turns, with an enigmatic yet lovable crime empire and some pompous ne’er do wells. Gatland does a great job of creating a story that will keep the reader guessing until the very end as to the who and why.
This novel is a bit of Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club series meets the movie “RED,” so fans of those types of stories will love “The Moriarty Murders,” which is due out Oct. 27, as well as fans of Deanna Raybourn’s “Killers of a Certain Age” series.
Five stars out of five.
Simon Stream, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
October 24, 2026
I have found a new favorite series. I loved the characters in this book. Abbie is an investigative journalist struggling to get over a case that didn't end well when she discovers she has an inheritance. Abbie inherits an old country house and the Moriarty Criminal enterprise, which includes an eclectic group of operatives who usually commit crimes, not solve them. When Finch, a member of their team, dies and Abbie finds there is a connection to her last case, she joins the team to find the murderer. The case would have been amazing on its own. The mystery has all the right elements to keep you flipping to the next page. The icing on the cake is the characters. Abbie is getting to know her team, and they are a band of misfits with a wealth of knowledge. I loved every minute of getting to know them and the unique skills each brings to the table. I didn't want this book to end, and I am eager to read the next installment. The narration was great. There were a lot of characters, each with their own voice, and there was only one narrator! I was immersed in the story with this narration. Do not hesitate to pick up this fantastic mystery. If you love a mystery where the characters are as great as the mystery, then this is your next read!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was a very enjoyable introduction to a new cozy crime series about a rather unusual detective agency. Abigail ‘Abbie’ Wren is an investigative journalist who is always looking to help the underdog. Then out of the blue she finds she is related to a notorious crime family and following the death of Moriarty she is his only heir.
Briefly, she has been left a crumbling mansion that is home to a group of aged criminals. With their opinions on what is right being diametrically opposite things were a little fractious until one of the gentlemen, their accountant, is murdered. Whilst the team is out for revenge Abbie is determined to find the killer and hand them over to the police. But before their investigations are complete, there is another body to deal with.
Can you imagine finding out that you are related to Sherlock Holmes’s most famous enemy, Moriarty! What a perfect set up. I absolutely loved the concept of criminals turned detectives. Abbie is a great character and the interaction between her and the somewhat eccentric group of former criminals is wonderful. The plot is entertaining and it’s definitely made me want to read the next book. A great fun story.
Briefly, she has been left a crumbling mansion that is home to a group of aged criminals. With their opinions on what is right being diametrically opposite things were a little fractious until one of the gentlemen, their accountant, is murdered. Whilst the team is out for revenge Abbie is determined to find the killer and hand them over to the police. But before their investigations are complete, there is another body to deal with.
Can you imagine finding out that you are related to Sherlock Holmes’s most famous enemy, Moriarty! What a perfect set up. I absolutely loved the concept of criminals turned detectives. Abbie is a great character and the interaction between her and the somewhat eccentric group of former criminals is wonderful. The plot is entertaining and it’s definitely made me want to read the next book. A great fun story.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
⭐ 4.5 stars
The Moriarty Murders was a wonderful cozy mystery! A journalist inheriting the Moriarty criminal empire makes for such a fun setup, especially when she’s determined to solve crimes legally while those around her would prefer revenge.
Abbie’s insistence on doing things her way was a highlight, and the passages about Maurice Finch’s history added another interesting layer. A lovely start to a new series—I can’t wait for the next one!
The Moriarty Murders was a wonderful cozy mystery! A journalist inheriting the Moriarty criminal empire makes for such a fun setup, especially when she’s determined to solve crimes legally while those around her would prefer revenge.
Abbie’s insistence on doing things her way was a highlight, and the passages about Maurice Finch’s history added another interesting layer. A lovely start to a new series—I can’t wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
(Thank you for the opportunity to read this as an ARC!)
This was an okay read, but it didn’t entirely click with me personally.
It was well written and constructed, however I think that the “cosy” elements fell a little flat for me. We had the potential for a really special found family moment to blossom and I think it was a little rushed which in turn came across as slightly inorganic?
As a fan of the original Holmes stories, I had a lot of fun with the references and quirks! And the mystery was interesting, I just wasn’t able to connect with the characters in the way that I like to.
This was an okay read, but it didn’t entirely click with me personally.
It was well written and constructed, however I think that the “cosy” elements fell a little flat for me. We had the potential for a really special found family moment to blossom and I think it was a little rushed which in turn came across as slightly inorganic?
As a fan of the original Holmes stories, I had a lot of fun with the references and quirks! And the mystery was interesting, I just wasn’t able to connect with the characters in the way that I like to.
October 27, 2026
This is such a great, fast-paced whodunnit, I loved the mix of characters and all the different skill sets they had.
The story behind the mysteries was interesting and I’m intrigued as to what will be happening next for Moriarty and Co.
The story behind the mysteries was interesting and I’m intrigued as to what will be happening next for Moriarty and Co.
October 30, 2026
Investigative journalist Abigail (Abbie) Wren has made a career out of getting to the bottom of cases that go nowhere, for local newspapers. Her latest investigation into shady business Gordon Vennett has joust gone spectacularly sideways, and she has lost her job as a result.
Having to rely on part-time bar work to pay the bills is less than ideal, but she really does not know what to make of the opportunity that comes her way when mild-mannered solicitor Arthur Pemberton informs she has inherited a legacy that will change her life - namely that she the last living member of the Moriarty criminal empire (yes, that Moriarty).
The legacy comes with a crumbling manor house, and a cellar that contains that aging operatives of what remains of the Moriarty operation, who are not thrilled about her arrival. However, they are in need of someone with her skills to help them get to the bottom of the murder of one of their own. Abbie is not at all sure about suddenly being on the wrong side of the law, but this just might be a profitable working partnership for them all, if they can avoid the attentions of another contender for the Moriarty legacy...
This first instalment of a brand new cosy crime series, Moriarty & Co. is an absolute delight from start to finish!
Abbie has never known her parentage, so the discovery that she is the last remaining legitimate heir of the infamous James Moriarty, arch-nemesis of Sherlock Holmes, is a big surprise. Finding her legacy somewhat diminished, Abbie meets the gang of a handful of (mostly) aging ' Old Guard' operatives who are now her 'employees' - Graves (sizeable chap in-charge of the armoury), Patch (IT expert), Sable (the one youngster, and an androgenous chameleon), Evie (disavowed coroner), and Arthur Pemberton (solicitor, aka Pembers).
The Old Guard have been keeping the dwindling fires burning, and are smarting from the loss of Finch, who was auditing the books of the 'new age' Worshipful Company of Mercantile Venturers (dodgy financial types), and apparently fell off a roof. Convinced he was murdered, they want revenge, and the brand new Moriarty leader's investigative savvy could be helpful. The gang head of to the hall here the Worshipful Company are gathering for a swanky dinner, and set about ferreting out the truth under the guise of a real historical department of the Home Office. Along the way, they get to know each others strengths and secrets, and Abbie discovers a part of herself she did not even know existed.
This is equal parts super-slick murder mystery, quirky crime caper, and gangland thriller with a twist, that thrums with cosy Richard Osman-type vibes. The Moriarty gang are a riot, and work beautifully as a team to solve Finch's murder, and reach satisfying conclusions in other areas of the story in a way that will make you punch the air with glee. There is extra frisson from a potential love interest for Abbie in the form of (clearly smitten) DCI Hale, and the element of a dangerous pretender to the Moriarty crown adds an edge to the whole proceedings which provides a cracking twist at the end - and a fabulous hook into the next book in the Moriarty & Co series.
I ended up listening to the audio book of this gem, narrated with aplomb by Heather Long, and loved every glorious moment. I cannot wait for book two!
Having to rely on part-time bar work to pay the bills is less than ideal, but she really does not know what to make of the opportunity that comes her way when mild-mannered solicitor Arthur Pemberton informs she has inherited a legacy that will change her life - namely that she the last living member of the Moriarty criminal empire (yes, that Moriarty).
The legacy comes with a crumbling manor house, and a cellar that contains that aging operatives of what remains of the Moriarty operation, who are not thrilled about her arrival. However, they are in need of someone with her skills to help them get to the bottom of the murder of one of their own. Abbie is not at all sure about suddenly being on the wrong side of the law, but this just might be a profitable working partnership for them all, if they can avoid the attentions of another contender for the Moriarty legacy...
This first instalment of a brand new cosy crime series, Moriarty & Co. is an absolute delight from start to finish!
Abbie has never known her parentage, so the discovery that she is the last remaining legitimate heir of the infamous James Moriarty, arch-nemesis of Sherlock Holmes, is a big surprise. Finding her legacy somewhat diminished, Abbie meets the gang of a handful of (mostly) aging ' Old Guard' operatives who are now her 'employees' - Graves (sizeable chap in-charge of the armoury), Patch (IT expert), Sable (the one youngster, and an androgenous chameleon), Evie (disavowed coroner), and Arthur Pemberton (solicitor, aka Pembers).
The Old Guard have been keeping the dwindling fires burning, and are smarting from the loss of Finch, who was auditing the books of the 'new age' Worshipful Company of Mercantile Venturers (dodgy financial types), and apparently fell off a roof. Convinced he was murdered, they want revenge, and the brand new Moriarty leader's investigative savvy could be helpful. The gang head of to the hall here the Worshipful Company are gathering for a swanky dinner, and set about ferreting out the truth under the guise of a real historical department of the Home Office. Along the way, they get to know each others strengths and secrets, and Abbie discovers a part of herself she did not even know existed.
This is equal parts super-slick murder mystery, quirky crime caper, and gangland thriller with a twist, that thrums with cosy Richard Osman-type vibes. The Moriarty gang are a riot, and work beautifully as a team to solve Finch's murder, and reach satisfying conclusions in other areas of the story in a way that will make you punch the air with glee. There is extra frisson from a potential love interest for Abbie in the form of (clearly smitten) DCI Hale, and the element of a dangerous pretender to the Moriarty crown adds an edge to the whole proceedings which provides a cracking twist at the end - and a fabulous hook into the next book in the Moriarty & Co series.
I ended up listening to the audio book of this gem, narrated with aplomb by Heather Long, and loved every glorious moment. I cannot wait for book two!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A cosy crime novel for readers who enjoy -
🔍The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
🔍Sharp, twisty mysteries
🔍Eccentric criminals
🔍Richard Osman, Robert Thorogood and Agatha Christie
⭑ Publication Date: 27th October 2026
⭑ Available In: Audiobook, eBook and Paperback
⭑ Series: Book 1, Moriarty & Co Mysteries
⭑ Always remember to check content and trigger warnings before reading.
~ review ~
The Moriarty Murders is a cosy, witty, fast-paced engaging mystery that’s overflowing with intelligent humour and wit. It features a small cast of characters each with their own distinct personalities and with that comes a surprisingly endearing display of found family. The page turning ‘whodunnit’ style mystery is entertaining, intriguing and keeps you guessing until the end. I really enjoyed working my way through the drama and chaos and can’t wait for book 2!
This is a book you can very easily get through in a single sitting. Between the isolated Country House setting, perplexing mystery and band of loveable rogues, there’s always something going on and plenty of questions to be answered. The story involves criminal activity, unexplained deaths and shady behaviour but there’s a playful tone running from start to end which keeps things light and comedic.
The characters are easily my favourite part of this book - Sable and Graves in particular.
The mixed personalities, ages and skillsets reminded me of Oceans 11 and Money Heist and made for some really enjoyable reading. I loved how the team took Abbie under their wing and adjusted their well established (slightly questionable…) way of working according to her wishes. Abbie herself is likeable and so easy to root for. She’s strong willed, knows her own mind and doesn’t take any messing from anyone. I loved seeing her go from reluctant outsider to an integral member of the Moriarty team but I found it oddly emotional too! She hasn’t had the easiest life so seeing her end up as part of this odd eclectic family who clearly have so much respect for her was quite lovely!
I read and listened to this book in sync and thought Heather Long did a brilliant job as narrator. She’s smooth talking and easy to understand (even at 1.5x - 1.75x which are the listening speeds I opted for). She brought each character to life and made sure their distinct personalities shone through. It’s quite a skill to be able to take on the role of multiple characters and the fact I never found myself feeling lost or confused was very impressive so major props to her for that.
~ final thoughts ~
I really enjoyed Book 1 in the Moriarty & Co Mysteries and I’m already anticipating book 2!
This was a classic whodunnit featuring a close knit team of loveable rogues, an isolated setting, shady characters, secrets, lies and a very satisfying ending. For me, the link to Sherlock Holmes was the cherry on top and I’d definitely recommend The Moriarty Murders to anyone who favours his adventures too.
Thank you to Simon Stream/Simon Stream Audio and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC/listen to this ALC. This is my honest opinion and I’m sharing it voluntarily❣️
🔍The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
🔍Sharp, twisty mysteries
🔍Eccentric criminals
🔍Richard Osman, Robert Thorogood and Agatha Christie
⭑ Publication Date: 27th October 2026
⭑ Available In: Audiobook, eBook and Paperback
⭑ Series: Book 1, Moriarty & Co Mysteries
⭑ Always remember to check content and trigger warnings before reading.
~ review ~
The Moriarty Murders is a cosy, witty, fast-paced engaging mystery that’s overflowing with intelligent humour and wit. It features a small cast of characters each with their own distinct personalities and with that comes a surprisingly endearing display of found family. The page turning ‘whodunnit’ style mystery is entertaining, intriguing and keeps you guessing until the end. I really enjoyed working my way through the drama and chaos and can’t wait for book 2!
This is a book you can very easily get through in a single sitting. Between the isolated Country House setting, perplexing mystery and band of loveable rogues, there’s always something going on and plenty of questions to be answered. The story involves criminal activity, unexplained deaths and shady behaviour but there’s a playful tone running from start to end which keeps things light and comedic.
The characters are easily my favourite part of this book - Sable and Graves in particular.
The mixed personalities, ages and skillsets reminded me of Oceans 11 and Money Heist and made for some really enjoyable reading. I loved how the team took Abbie under their wing and adjusted their well established (slightly questionable…) way of working according to her wishes. Abbie herself is likeable and so easy to root for. She’s strong willed, knows her own mind and doesn’t take any messing from anyone. I loved seeing her go from reluctant outsider to an integral member of the Moriarty team but I found it oddly emotional too! She hasn’t had the easiest life so seeing her end up as part of this odd eclectic family who clearly have so much respect for her was quite lovely!
I read and listened to this book in sync and thought Heather Long did a brilliant job as narrator. She’s smooth talking and easy to understand (even at 1.5x - 1.75x which are the listening speeds I opted for). She brought each character to life and made sure their distinct personalities shone through. It’s quite a skill to be able to take on the role of multiple characters and the fact I never found myself feeling lost or confused was very impressive so major props to her for that.
~ final thoughts ~
I really enjoyed Book 1 in the Moriarty & Co Mysteries and I’m already anticipating book 2!
This was a classic whodunnit featuring a close knit team of loveable rogues, an isolated setting, shady characters, secrets, lies and a very satisfying ending. For me, the link to Sherlock Holmes was the cherry on top and I’d definitely recommend The Moriarty Murders to anyone who favours his adventures too.
Thank you to Simon Stream/Simon Stream Audio and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC/listen to this ALC. This is my honest opinion and I’m sharing it voluntarily❣️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Moriarty Murders: Everybody’s Playing Somebody
Imagine losing your job for calling out financial fraud, receiving an unexpected inheritance from an uncle you didn’t even know existed, and discovering that inheritance comes with a crime society and a whole lot of secrets. Yeah, Abigail Wren’s life takes a turn. And somehow, that’s only the beginning.
The story opens with a shocking death that is quickly ruled a suicide, but things are not quite what they seem. Abbie barely knew her uncle existed, yet suddenly finds herself inheriting his property, staff, a stipend, and, perhaps most interestingly, the Moriarty Crime Society. Talk about being thrown into the deep end without knowing how to swim.
Meanwhile, Abbie is a freelance journalist investigating a wealthy man whose financial schemes have left people devastated. When she publicly challenges him over his treatment of investors, she is humiliated and subsequently loses her job. I think that only makes her more determined to expose the truth. She’s already seen the damage these schemes can cause, and now she has even more reason to make sure the people responsible are held accountable.
What begins as an investigation into financial misconduct quickly becomes something much bigger as sources disappear, bodies begin piling up, and connections emerge between the people she is investigating and the mysterious world she has suddenly inherited. She’s trying to navigate a new family history, figure out her place in the Moriarty Crime Society, and uncover the truth about the people involved in her investigation. That’s a lot to unpack, and I enjoyed watching it all come together.
What really worked for me was the number of layers to the mystery. Everyone had an agenda, everyone thought they were in control, and nearly everyone was being played by somebody else. The deception, treachery, and disloyalty kept me questioning how everything connected. The story wasn’t predictable, and the reveals felt satisfying as the bigger picture came into focus.
The pacing and narration worked well for me, too. I wanted to keep reading until I reached the end and had answers to my questions. The book held my attention without making the journey feel like a chore, and I was satisfied with how everything wrapped up.
I also appreciated that the ending left room for more stories without relying on a cliffhanger. The Moriarty Crime Society has plenty of potential for future investigations, and I would absolutely read another book featuring this group. I’d love to see what mysteries they tackle next.
Overall, this was an entertaining mystery with plenty of intrigue, complicated schemes, and characters who were never quite as far ahead as they thought they were. The book delivered what I wanted, and I’d happily return to this world for another installment.
An advanced reader copy was provided by NetGalley.
Rating: 4.75/5 stars
Imagine losing your job for calling out financial fraud, receiving an unexpected inheritance from an uncle you didn’t even know existed, and discovering that inheritance comes with a crime society and a whole lot of secrets. Yeah, Abigail Wren’s life takes a turn. And somehow, that’s only the beginning.
The story opens with a shocking death that is quickly ruled a suicide, but things are not quite what they seem. Abbie barely knew her uncle existed, yet suddenly finds herself inheriting his property, staff, a stipend, and, perhaps most interestingly, the Moriarty Crime Society. Talk about being thrown into the deep end without knowing how to swim.
Meanwhile, Abbie is a freelance journalist investigating a wealthy man whose financial schemes have left people devastated. When she publicly challenges him over his treatment of investors, she is humiliated and subsequently loses her job. I think that only makes her more determined to expose the truth. She’s already seen the damage these schemes can cause, and now she has even more reason to make sure the people responsible are held accountable.
What begins as an investigation into financial misconduct quickly becomes something much bigger as sources disappear, bodies begin piling up, and connections emerge between the people she is investigating and the mysterious world she has suddenly inherited. She’s trying to navigate a new family history, figure out her place in the Moriarty Crime Society, and uncover the truth about the people involved in her investigation. That’s a lot to unpack, and I enjoyed watching it all come together.
What really worked for me was the number of layers to the mystery. Everyone had an agenda, everyone thought they were in control, and nearly everyone was being played by somebody else. The deception, treachery, and disloyalty kept me questioning how everything connected. The story wasn’t predictable, and the reveals felt satisfying as the bigger picture came into focus.
The pacing and narration worked well for me, too. I wanted to keep reading until I reached the end and had answers to my questions. The book held my attention without making the journey feel like a chore, and I was satisfied with how everything wrapped up.
I also appreciated that the ending left room for more stories without relying on a cliffhanger. The Moriarty Crime Society has plenty of potential for future investigations, and I would absolutely read another book featuring this group. I’d love to see what mysteries they tackle next.
Overall, this was an entertaining mystery with plenty of intrigue, complicated schemes, and characters who were never quite as far ahead as they thought they were. The book delivered what I wanted, and I’d happily return to this world for another installment.
An advanced reader copy was provided by NetGalley.
Rating: 4.75/5 stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed this slightly different mystery.
Even if you are not a fan of Sherlock Holmes you can still enjoy it because to be honest the only connection was in name and not actually to any of the stories.
I loved the characters. The way the Moriarty criminals took Abbie under there wing was a delight. Although I am not sure I would call them criminals, they just have a different way of doing things. Sort of like the A-team with a brains of the operation, the muscle, the tech guy, a doctor and a chameleon, each providing skill to help and back up Abbie as she investigates the death of one of there own. Even with the mystery surrounding them I already feel like I know them.
The locked room feel to the mystery provided some entertainment, especially not knowing who was responsible or in the end what to believe. The mystery kept me guessing and like the A-team I love it when a plan comes together. It's definitely a series I can see myself joining again.
When Abbie an investigative journalist confronts the man man who stole an elderly woman's retirement fund, she never expected to be escorted out by police or lose her job. So when a man seeks her out claim she has inherited a stately manor, she is ready for the punchline. Only there isn't one, she is the last Moriarty and with her uncle's death she has inherited his criminal empire and more importantly his staff, who need her expertise. One of there own was murdered and all the suspects will be in one place and they need her to find his killer. She is reluctant until she sees the guest list, then joined by her new friends she aims to make things right by catching a killer. She just has to survive the night at the manor without getting arrested or worst killed.
I liked the narrator. She played the part beautifully and brought each characters to life.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Even if you are not a fan of Sherlock Holmes you can still enjoy it because to be honest the only connection was in name and not actually to any of the stories.
I loved the characters. The way the Moriarty criminals took Abbie under there wing was a delight. Although I am not sure I would call them criminals, they just have a different way of doing things. Sort of like the A-team with a brains of the operation, the muscle, the tech guy, a doctor and a chameleon, each providing skill to help and back up Abbie as she investigates the death of one of there own. Even with the mystery surrounding them I already feel like I know them.
The locked room feel to the mystery provided some entertainment, especially not knowing who was responsible or in the end what to believe. The mystery kept me guessing and like the A-team I love it when a plan comes together. It's definitely a series I can see myself joining again.
When Abbie an investigative journalist confronts the man man who stole an elderly woman's retirement fund, she never expected to be escorted out by police or lose her job. So when a man seeks her out claim she has inherited a stately manor, she is ready for the punchline. Only there isn't one, she is the last Moriarty and with her uncle's death she has inherited his criminal empire and more importantly his staff, who need her expertise. One of there own was murdered and all the suspects will be in one place and they need her to find his killer. She is reluctant until she sees the guest list, then joined by her new friends she aims to make things right by catching a killer. She just has to survive the night at the manor without getting arrested or worst killed.
I liked the narrator. She played the part beautifully and brought each characters to life.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
October 25, 2026
I kindly received an ARC of The Moriarty Murders by Jack Gatland via NetGalley, so a big thank you for the opportunity to read this early!
The premise—and that gorgeous cover—drew me in immediately. As a massive Sherlock Holmes fan, I usually love anything related to the stories, so I was completely prepared to adore this book. The setup is fantastic: our protagonist, investigative journalist Abbie, discovers that she is the sole heir to the notorious Moriarty crime empire. An investigative journalist inheriting the legacy of Holmes's greatest nemesis? It sounds like the ultimate recipe for a high-stakes mystery!
Unfortunately, the execution just didn't work for me. My primary issue was the characterization; the cast felt strangely flat. I couldn't bring myself to care about Abbie, nor was I invested in any of the supporting characters. There were a few light parallels to the original Arthur Conan Doyle stories, but far fewer than I was hoping for, which felt like a missed opportunity.
The pacing was quite slow, to the point where reading felt like a chore just to reach the final reveal. But when the conclusion finally arrived, it landed with a complete thud—mostly because I had no emotional investment in who the culprit turned out to be. They could have pinned the crime on any of the suspects and it wouldn't have made a difference to me.
Worse still were the dangling threads. The story leaves far too many unanswered questions and muddy plotlines, including the whole Moran subplot. While I understand the author's desire to set up a larger series, the core mystery of who was sending the Moriarty messages is left completely unresolved by the end.
Given all the glowing reviews this book is receiving, I might just be the outlier here—or perhaps my high expectations as a Holmes fan set the bar too high. Ultimately, The Moriarty Murders just wasn't my cup of tea, but readers looking for the start of a broader crime series might enjoy it more than I did.
The premise—and that gorgeous cover—drew me in immediately. As a massive Sherlock Holmes fan, I usually love anything related to the stories, so I was completely prepared to adore this book. The setup is fantastic: our protagonist, investigative journalist Abbie, discovers that she is the sole heir to the notorious Moriarty crime empire. An investigative journalist inheriting the legacy of Holmes's greatest nemesis? It sounds like the ultimate recipe for a high-stakes mystery!
Unfortunately, the execution just didn't work for me. My primary issue was the characterization; the cast felt strangely flat. I couldn't bring myself to care about Abbie, nor was I invested in any of the supporting characters. There were a few light parallels to the original Arthur Conan Doyle stories, but far fewer than I was hoping for, which felt like a missed opportunity.
The pacing was quite slow, to the point where reading felt like a chore just to reach the final reveal. But when the conclusion finally arrived, it landed with a complete thud—mostly because I had no emotional investment in who the culprit turned out to be. They could have pinned the crime on any of the suspects and it wouldn't have made a difference to me.
Worse still were the dangling threads. The story leaves far too many unanswered questions and muddy plotlines, including the whole Moran subplot. While I understand the author's desire to set up a larger series, the core mystery of who was sending the Moriarty messages is left completely unresolved by the end.
Given all the glowing reviews this book is receiving, I might just be the outlier here—or perhaps my high expectations as a Holmes fan set the bar too high. Ultimately, The Moriarty Murders just wasn't my cup of tea, but readers looking for the start of a broader crime series might enjoy it more than I did.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
📚THE MORIARTY MURDERS📚
Jack Gatland
Publishes 10/27/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you to @simonstream.books, @netgalley, and @mrtonylee for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⸻
Investigative journalist Abigail Wren is used to chasing other people’s secrets, not inheriting them. Then she discovers she is the last living heir to the Moriarty criminal empire and has inherited a crumbling country house along with a group of ageing operatives who are far more comfortable committing crimes than solving them.
When one of their own is found dead, Abbie decides it might be time to put the Moriarty name to better use. But the investigation soon uncovers another body, old loyalties, and someone who believes the inheritance should have been theirs. Now the newly formed Moriarty & Co. must solve the case before its unconventional detective agency becomes very short-lived.
⸻
The Moriarty Murders is a playful cozy mystery filled with clever twists and eccentric characters. Abbie is such a lovable main character because she never asked for any of this, yet somehow finds herself responsible for a criminal empire and the most unusual group of detectives imaginable.
The former criminals-turned-investigators add so much flavor to the story. Their chemistry with Abbie brings humor, warmth, and plenty of personality to every chapter. Honestly, I think I enjoyed getting to know this mismatched team just as much as I enjoyed trying to solve the mystery.
The Sherlock Holmes and Moriarty connection gives the story an immediate sense of fun, while the suspicious characters, family secrets, and country-house setting kept me curious. It’s witty, engaging, and just different enough to stand out from other cozy mysteries. I would happily join Moriarty & Co. for another case.
Jack Gatland
Publishes 10/27/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you to @simonstream.books, @netgalley, and @mrtonylee for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
⸻
Investigative journalist Abigail Wren is used to chasing other people’s secrets, not inheriting them. Then she discovers she is the last living heir to the Moriarty criminal empire and has inherited a crumbling country house along with a group of ageing operatives who are far more comfortable committing crimes than solving them.
When one of their own is found dead, Abbie decides it might be time to put the Moriarty name to better use. But the investigation soon uncovers another body, old loyalties, and someone who believes the inheritance should have been theirs. Now the newly formed Moriarty & Co. must solve the case before its unconventional detective agency becomes very short-lived.
⸻
The Moriarty Murders is a playful cozy mystery filled with clever twists and eccentric characters. Abbie is such a lovable main character because she never asked for any of this, yet somehow finds herself responsible for a criminal empire and the most unusual group of detectives imaginable.
The former criminals-turned-investigators add so much flavor to the story. Their chemistry with Abbie brings humor, warmth, and plenty of personality to every chapter. Honestly, I think I enjoyed getting to know this mismatched team just as much as I enjoyed trying to solve the mystery.
The Sherlock Holmes and Moriarty connection gives the story an immediate sense of fun, while the suspicious characters, family secrets, and country-house setting kept me curious. It’s witty, engaging, and just different enough to stand out from other cozy mysteries. I would happily join Moriarty & Co. for another case.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mark me officially excited to have found a new crime series that I'm going to be addicted to!
I loved that Abbie had a strong moral compass and being introduced to her previously unknown family name did not change who she was or her integrity. That she remained steadfast in her beliefs and was reluctant to be involved until her journalistic senses were tingling and her sense of justice prevailed. As a reader you felt like you were in her shoes discovering a whole new world hidden in plain sight and following the clues to slowly unravel the mysterious death.
The Moriarty team were such a fun eclectic mix, with their secretive pasts and unique skill sets. I adored that they operated in the grey areas under an official government department. I think my favourite was Sable, such a chameleon.
The story itself was fast paced, twisting, thrilling and kept me turning pages to finish this in two sittings. I'm now an ardent fan and really can't wait to see the team in action again.
The narrator was spot on, she portrayed each character well and there were nuances between each of them so they were clear and distinct. I'd say it was a perfect fit for the story and my enjoyment was definitely enhanced as I found the narrator engaging.
Thank you to the author, Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for my copy. All opinions are my own.
The narrator was spot on, she portrayed each character well and there were nuances between each of them so they were clear and distinct. I'd say it was a perfect fit for the story and my enjoyment was definitely enhanced as I found the narrator engaging.
I loved that Abbie had a strong moral compass and being introduced to her previously unknown family name did not change who she was or her integrity. That she remained steadfast in her beliefs and was reluctant to be involved until her journalistic senses were tingling and her sense of justice prevailed. As a reader you felt like you were in her shoes discovering a whole new world hidden in plain sight and following the clues to slowly unravel the mysterious death.
The Moriarty team were such a fun eclectic mix, with their secretive pasts and unique skill sets. I adored that they operated in the grey areas under an official government department. I think my favourite was Sable, such a chameleon.
The story itself was fast paced, twisting, thrilling and kept me turning pages to finish this in two sittings. I'm now an ardent fan and really can't wait to see the team in action again.
The narrator was spot on, she portrayed each character well and there were nuances between each of them so they were clear and distinct. I'd say it was a perfect fit for the story and my enjoyment was definitely enhanced as I found the narrator engaging.
Thank you to the author, Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for my copy. All opinions are my own.
The narrator was spot on, she portrayed each character well and there were nuances between each of them so they were clear and distinct. I'd say it was a perfect fit for the story and my enjoyment was definitely enhanced as I found the narrator engaging.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Will the real Moriarty please stand up? 🎤
Think The Princess Diaries, but instead of inheriting a country, Abbie Wren inherits a crumbling country house, a cellar full of retired mafia members, and a gift shop. Yes, a gift shop. That’s the whole reason I picked this up.
This is a slow-burn, classic whodunit with no ticking clock, so don’t go in expecting a thriller. It gave me Glass Onion vibes with a smaller, less eccentric cast, and it ends with a big “ta-da” walkthrough of the whole reveal. If you like a mystery that takes its time (Thursday Murder Club energy), you’ll be happy here.
What worked for me was Abbie. She’s a smart, stubborn heroine who keeps her ethics intact and solves things the legal way, and watching a room of career criminals adjust to that was the best part. The crew is a delight too.
What didn’t: the running gag of everyone calling her Moriarty and her correcting them wore thin for me. I also would have liked her to earn her place before everyone expected her to step into it. Then again, that’s the Princess Diaries setup, so it’s on brand.
Heather Long’s narration has that classic British Sherlock Holmes storytelling feel, which is exactly right for this kind of story. 🎧
A solid start to a series, and I’d absolutely read the next one. 3.5 stars.
Thank you NetGalley and Simon Stream Audio for sending this audiobook for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
📖 The Moriarty Murders
✍️ Jack Gatland
📚 Moriarty & Co Mysteries, Book 1
🎙️ Heather Long
🎁 NetGalley & Simon Stream Audio
📅 10/26/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 3.5/5
🔍 For fans of: cozy whodunits, Glass Onion, found-family mysteries
Think The Princess Diaries, but instead of inheriting a country, Abbie Wren inherits a crumbling country house, a cellar full of retired mafia members, and a gift shop. Yes, a gift shop. That’s the whole reason I picked this up.
This is a slow-burn, classic whodunit with no ticking clock, so don’t go in expecting a thriller. It gave me Glass Onion vibes with a smaller, less eccentric cast, and it ends with a big “ta-da” walkthrough of the whole reveal. If you like a mystery that takes its time (Thursday Murder Club energy), you’ll be happy here.
What worked for me was Abbie. She’s a smart, stubborn heroine who keeps her ethics intact and solves things the legal way, and watching a room of career criminals adjust to that was the best part. The crew is a delight too.
What didn’t: the running gag of everyone calling her Moriarty and her correcting them wore thin for me. I also would have liked her to earn her place before everyone expected her to step into it. Then again, that’s the Princess Diaries setup, so it’s on brand.
Heather Long’s narration has that classic British Sherlock Holmes storytelling feel, which is exactly right for this kind of story. 🎧
A solid start to a series, and I’d absolutely read the next one. 3.5 stars.
Thank you NetGalley and Simon Stream Audio for sending this audiobook for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
📖 The Moriarty Murders
✍️ Jack Gatland
📚 Moriarty & Co Mysteries, Book 1
🎙️ Heather Long
🎁 NetGalley & Simon Stream Audio
📅 10/26/26
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 3.5/5
🔍 For fans of: cozy whodunits, Glass Onion, found-family mysteries
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was a fun, entertaining and fast paced cozy crime caper. I mixed audio with reading the eARC and found this a great way to read this book. The narrator, Heather Long, did a fantastic job at telling the story and brought the characters to life through her excellent narration.
We meet Abbie Wren who has inherited the Moriarty Criminal Empire, yes of Sherlock Holmes fame. Abbie is an investigative journalist, usually on the right side of the law but now she is at the helm of Moriarty & Co, which comes with it a country house that has seen better days and some ageing criminals to boot. When Maurice Finch, one of her new employees is found dead the team must work together to solve the crime rather than committing them.
I loved meeting the colourful characters at Denham House - each with their own skill set, this eclectic group of individuals were so much fun. The story is a classic whodunnit style with a clever and tightly woven plot. It was an easy story to like and the reader can't help but try and work out the answers to the puzzle alongside the characters.
This is a first in a new series and I am really glad I had the chance to read this. I look forward to seeing what happens next.
Thank you so much to Simon Stream and NetGalley for the eARC and Audio Book
We meet Abbie Wren who has inherited the Moriarty Criminal Empire, yes of Sherlock Holmes fame. Abbie is an investigative journalist, usually on the right side of the law but now she is at the helm of Moriarty & Co, which comes with it a country house that has seen better days and some ageing criminals to boot. When Maurice Finch, one of her new employees is found dead the team must work together to solve the crime rather than committing them.
I loved meeting the colourful characters at Denham House - each with their own skill set, this eclectic group of individuals were so much fun. The story is a classic whodunnit style with a clever and tightly woven plot. It was an easy story to like and the reader can't help but try and work out the answers to the puzzle alongside the characters.
This is a first in a new series and I am really glad I had the chance to read this. I look forward to seeing what happens next.
Thank you so much to Simon Stream and NetGalley for the eARC and Audio Book
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I recieved this Advance Reader Copy through Netgalley. This is a new author for me, I've never read anything from Jack Gatland.
Everyone knows the name Moriarty, and what that name means (Sherlock Holmes arch nemesis, criminal mastermind)
Abby is an investigative journalist who discovers she is the last living Moriarty. And she inherits a house and a criminal organization of seniors and a teenager.
They want her to use her expertise to investigate and solve the murder of a coworker. With their resources and credentials.
I loved the literary style of how he describes different people, scenes and even acts. It helps to create such a picture of what is happening and you can create your own thoughts about what that means.
As decribed by the Moriarty Empire; you put the picture in their mind and let them do the rest.
The team is so unique and I love all the characters of the Moriarty Crime Empire and I cant wait to read future books! They make you think about them after you've closed the book.
This is a mystery that you keep finding peices for until the end! And then are shocked at the picture!
If you are looking for a fun murder mystery, with non-traditional characters that keeps you guessing, this is one to pick up.
There is no romance or spice at all.
Everyone knows the name Moriarty, and what that name means (Sherlock Holmes arch nemesis, criminal mastermind)
Abby is an investigative journalist who discovers she is the last living Moriarty. And she inherits a house and a criminal organization of seniors and a teenager.
They want her to use her expertise to investigate and solve the murder of a coworker. With their resources and credentials.
I loved the literary style of how he describes different people, scenes and even acts. It helps to create such a picture of what is happening and you can create your own thoughts about what that means.
As decribed by the Moriarty Empire; you put the picture in their mind and let them do the rest.
The team is so unique and I love all the characters of the Moriarty Crime Empire and I cant wait to read future books! They make you think about them after you've closed the book.
This is a mystery that you keep finding peices for until the end! And then are shocked at the picture!
If you are looking for a fun murder mystery, with non-traditional characters that keeps you guessing, this is one to pick up.
There is no romance or spice at all.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Mystery, murder, & a family business I think might need rebranding. I am so here for it!
Imagine waking up one day to find out you've inherited a manor house thats crumbling at the seams, a questionable group of employees & the legacy of a criminal empire. 👀
Meet Abigail Wren, she's an investigative journalist & she's just found out shes the last living heir to the Moriarty criminal empire.
Sadly her newly acquired criminals aren't keen on her moral compass, but then one of their own turns up dead & this is when things get complicated.
I adored the characters, they bought the entire story to life with their mixed bunch of personalities & it was damn right hilarious watching a group of ageing criminals try not to commit crime.
What made this premise particularly entertaining is the delicious irony of it all. A Moriarty solving murders rather than orchestrating them? Sherlock Holmes would be turning in his fictional grave!
This is by far the best murder mystery I've read in a long time, so if you love eccentric characters, unconventional detectives, a dash of dark humour & murder mysteries with a Sherlock Holmes twist, this is one to pop on your radar!
Imagine waking up one day to find out you've inherited a manor house thats crumbling at the seams, a questionable group of employees & the legacy of a criminal empire. 👀
Meet Abigail Wren, she's an investigative journalist & she's just found out shes the last living heir to the Moriarty criminal empire.
Sadly her newly acquired criminals aren't keen on her moral compass, but then one of their own turns up dead & this is when things get complicated.
I adored the characters, they bought the entire story to life with their mixed bunch of personalities & it was damn right hilarious watching a group of ageing criminals try not to commit crime.
What made this premise particularly entertaining is the delicious irony of it all. A Moriarty solving murders rather than orchestrating them? Sherlock Holmes would be turning in his fictional grave!
This is by far the best murder mystery I've read in a long time, so if you love eccentric characters, unconventional detectives, a dash of dark humour & murder mysteries with a Sherlock Holmes twist, this is one to pop on your radar!
October 29, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley, Simon Stream and Jack Gatland for the opportunity to read and review!
The cover graphics and the book title really stood out to me. As a Sherlock Holmes and the world of Sherlock tragic... I just could not wait to get stuck into reading this book, which is the first in the series called "The Moriarty & Co Mysteries", Now here is where I must admit... it did take me a bit to get into the storyline and to warm to the characters, but once I was able to; I found that I could not put the book down.
This book introduces us to Abbie Wren, an investigative journalist who discovers that she is the last remaining heir of the famous Moriarty. Her inheritance includes Denham House and its eclectic ageing criminals who all have their own unique and interesting backgrounds and skillsets. When the murder of Maurice Finch, one of the so=called Old Guard is committed and revenge is sought after, it falls to Abbie to put her own skills to the test.
This cozy. fast-paced mystery had me solving along with the characters and had me invested into what was going on, so much so that I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series as it is released.
The cover graphics and the book title really stood out to me. As a Sherlock Holmes and the world of Sherlock tragic... I just could not wait to get stuck into reading this book, which is the first in the series called "The Moriarty & Co Mysteries", Now here is where I must admit... it did take me a bit to get into the storyline and to warm to the characters, but once I was able to; I found that I could not put the book down.
This book introduces us to Abbie Wren, an investigative journalist who discovers that she is the last remaining heir of the famous Moriarty. Her inheritance includes Denham House and its eclectic ageing criminals who all have their own unique and interesting backgrounds and skillsets. When the murder of Maurice Finch, one of the so=called Old Guard is committed and revenge is sought after, it falls to Abbie to put her own skills to the test.
This cozy. fast-paced mystery had me solving along with the characters and had me invested into what was going on, so much so that I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series as it is released.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
If you're a fan of Sherlock Holmes or just like cozy mysteries, you should read this new book from Jack Gatland!
Abbie Wren is a freelance investigative journalist who just got kicked out of her work. One day, someone told her that she is the last Moriarty and she received the will of an old estate and crime empire.
Who would believe that when you are surviving alone in this harsh world without family, and suddenly you are the relative of the famous Moriarty?
Of course Abbie questioned it. She thought it was a scam. But when something weird happened, she was forced to investigate the murder of a member of the Moriarty Crime Empire.
The mystery aspect of this book is simple and cozy. You do not have to strain your brain. The killer is not unexpected, and the plot twist is barely there.
But it is still fun to find out how the murder happened and why them. The ending of this book makes you want to see how the second book of Moriarty and Co. series will be portrayed.
So yeah, you should try to read this book and enjoy Abbie's journey as the last Moriarty 👍🏻✨️
Abbie Wren is a freelance investigative journalist who just got kicked out of her work. One day, someone told her that she is the last Moriarty and she received the will of an old estate and crime empire.
Who would believe that when you are surviving alone in this harsh world without family, and suddenly you are the relative of the famous Moriarty?
Of course Abbie questioned it. She thought it was a scam. But when something weird happened, she was forced to investigate the murder of a member of the Moriarty Crime Empire.
The mystery aspect of this book is simple and cozy. You do not have to strain your brain. The killer is not unexpected, and the plot twist is barely there.
But it is still fun to find out how the murder happened and why them. The ending of this book makes you want to see how the second book of Moriarty and Co. series will be portrayed.
So yeah, you should try to read this book and enjoy Abbie's journey as the last Moriarty 👍🏻✨️
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
T H E M O R I A R T Y M U R D E R S from J A C K G A R L A N D and @simonstream.books.
I loved this easy-going murder mystery. Miss Abbie Wren and her team of misfits who are just so likeable. Mr Pemberton calm annd unassuming, Sable who was complicated and constantly changing like a chameleon and Graves who disappeared easily into the background but appeared when needed , what a trio, they were so much fun to read.
Abbie discovers she’s actually the last Moriarty and heir to a criminal empire . With refusal to give up the name she grew up with and no desire to move into the crumbling mansion shes inherited she finds herself on a roof staring at a man hanging from a weather vane whose left a note saying he pushed Maurice Finch an accountant off the roof.
And there the story starts to roll at speed as Abbie and her newly required team search for murderers and try to prove that both men did not commit suicide.
I hope there are more Moriarty and Co stories to come as this was such fun and easy to read.
Thank you to Simon Stream for allowing me an advance copy.
I loved this easy-going murder mystery. Miss Abbie Wren and her team of misfits who are just so likeable. Mr Pemberton calm annd unassuming, Sable who was complicated and constantly changing like a chameleon and Graves who disappeared easily into the background but appeared when needed , what a trio, they were so much fun to read.
Abbie discovers she’s actually the last Moriarty and heir to a criminal empire . With refusal to give up the name she grew up with and no desire to move into the crumbling mansion shes inherited she finds herself on a roof staring at a man hanging from a weather vane whose left a note saying he pushed Maurice Finch an accountant off the roof.
And there the story starts to roll at speed as Abbie and her newly required team search for murderers and try to prove that both men did not commit suicide.
I hope there are more Moriarty and Co stories to come as this was such fun and easy to read.
Thank you to Simon Stream for allowing me an advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Anything Sherlock Holmes and I'm there! But I'm also quite picky when it comes to stories set in this world. There are SO many adaptations and retellings that I'm always a little cautious about what I pick up. So when a book gets it right, I'm absolutely here for it!
And this one SMASHED it. As a BIG Sherlock fan, I loved how the author explored the Moriarty side of this world and did the character justice without making Sherlock the centre of everything. It felt like such a fun, refreshing way to revisit a world I already love.
The mystery itself was interesting and easy to follow, and the characters were so amusing and easy to root for. The writing was witty, and I genuinely had such a good time with this one that I flew through the audiobook in less than 24 hours!
A cosy, entertaining murder mystery that delivered exactly what I wanted as a Sherlock fan.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
And this one SMASHED it. As a BIG Sherlock fan, I loved how the author explored the Moriarty side of this world and did the character justice without making Sherlock the centre of everything. It felt like such a fun, refreshing way to revisit a world I already love.
The mystery itself was interesting and easy to follow, and the characters were so amusing and easy to root for. The writing was witty, and I genuinely had such a good time with this one that I flew through the audiobook in less than 24 hours!
A cosy, entertaining murder mystery that delivered exactly what I wanted as a Sherlock fan.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A cozy British mystery with a fun set up, imagine reluctantly inheriting the Moriarty (yes that Moriarty) crime empire and a sprawling mansion full of crooks! At least there's tea and cake!
Investigative journalist Abigail Wren has spent her career chasing cases no one else cares about. But everything changes when Abbie learns she's the last living heir to the Moriarty criminal empire. Now, not only has she inherited a crumbling country house, she’s also acquired a cellar full of ageing operatives who've spent their lives on the wrong side of the law. She wants none of it.
I loved the characters in this and that it felt like she was becoming part of a family, albeit a criminal one! The way Abbie became Miss. Moriarty was such a good read, I cheered at one point near the end! Really hoping for more Moriarty mysteries!
I would recommend 'The Moriarty Murders' and thank Netgalley, Simon & Schuster, and Jack Gatland for the advance copy.
Investigative journalist Abigail Wren has spent her career chasing cases no one else cares about. But everything changes when Abbie learns she's the last living heir to the Moriarty criminal empire. Now, not only has she inherited a crumbling country house, she’s also acquired a cellar full of ageing operatives who've spent their lives on the wrong side of the law. She wants none of it.
I loved the characters in this and that it felt like she was becoming part of a family, albeit a criminal one! The way Abbie became Miss. Moriarty was such a good read, I cheered at one point near the end! Really hoping for more Moriarty mysteries!
I would recommend 'The Moriarty Murders' and thank Netgalley, Simon & Schuster, and Jack Gatland for the advance copy.
October 27, 2026
📖 ARC BOOK REVIEW 📖
🚨🚨 ‼️‼️ 5 Star Alert ‼️‼️🚨🚨
Thank you to @SimonStreamBooks and the author, Jack Gatland, for the advanced copy!
📚Book: The Moriarty Murders
✍🏻Author: Jack Gatland
🌀Genre: Cozy Mystery
📃Pages: 400
Publication Date: October 27, 2026
💜Book Traits:
🛌Cozy Mystery
🔎Classic whodunnit
🤣Humor
🤫Family Secrets
🌪️Twists
🎭Well developed characters
😱Suspenseful
📖Unique story
📖 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
👩🏼⚖️Final Word:
What a fun start to a classic whodunnit mystery book series!! It was full of secrets, twists, suspense and humor! The characters are very well developed and I enjoyed every single one. I’m so glad I have another mystery series to dive into!! If you like cozy mysteries that present as a classic whodunnit but with a unique new story, this book is for you!!
🚨🚨 ‼️‼️ 5 Star Alert ‼️‼️🚨🚨
Thank you to @SimonStreamBooks and the author, Jack Gatland, for the advanced copy!
📚Book: The Moriarty Murders
✍🏻Author: Jack Gatland
🌀Genre: Cozy Mystery
📃Pages: 400
Publication Date: October 27, 2026
💜Book Traits:
🛌Cozy Mystery
🔎Classic whodunnit
🤣Humor
🤫Family Secrets
🌪️Twists
🎭Well developed characters
😱Suspenseful
📖Unique story
📖 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
👩🏼⚖️Final Word:
What a fun start to a classic whodunnit mystery book series!! It was full of secrets, twists, suspense and humor! The characters are very well developed and I enjoyed every single one. I’m so glad I have another mystery series to dive into!! If you like cozy mysteries that present as a classic whodunnit but with a unique new story, this book is for you!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When you think of a former foster child learning that she is the last living relative of the Moriarty crime empire, ‘cozy’ isn’t the first word that comes to mind. However, this author did a great job at illustrating the perfect cozy mystery! I loved how Abbie had her own way of running things, despite how different it was from the ways of those around her. The character development was great throughout and I felt like the characters really balanced each other out. Each character brought new layers to the story and it all flowed so well together. The ending wrapped up so well and definitely left room for more. This was a great start to a new series!
Thank you so much Jack Gatland and Netgalley for my gifted arc in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you so much Jack Gatland and Netgalley for my gifted arc in exchange for my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Mortuary Murders by Jack Garland
I enjoyed the start of this book, which got me interested in the story straight away. However, I found myself getting a little lost in the middle, and it took me a while to find my way back into the story. Thankfully, things picked up again towards the end.
I worked out some of what was happening, so parts of the mystery weren’t a complete surprise. The characters were okay, but I felt they could have done with more development to help me connect with them a bit more.
Overall, it was an okay read with a good start and a stronger finish. I’d be willing to try another book by Jack Garland, as I hope the characters and storytelling develop more in future books.
Did Not Finish
October 25, 2026Thank you so much Simon Stream for the arc, i very much appreciate it!
I didn’t finish this book, I got to 38%, I wanted to love it, the story sounded so good and right up my alley, but I just couldn’t get into it. I found myself not wanting to pick up the book again, I found the characters not jumping out at me to hold my interest.
I may pick it up again down the track, but for now I am DNFing this book. I don’t think it is fair for me to give it a rating, so I will not rate it.
This is my review and my honest take, but there are so many good reviews from other wonderful readers, so definitely give this book a go! This may not be for me, but it definitely could be that cosy murder mystery for you!
I didn’t finish this book, I got to 38%, I wanted to love it, the story sounded so good and right up my alley, but I just couldn’t get into it. I found myself not wanting to pick up the book again, I found the characters not jumping out at me to hold my interest.
I may pick it up again down the track, but for now I am DNFing this book. I don’t think it is fair for me to give it a rating, so I will not rate it.
This is my review and my honest take, but there are so many good reviews from other wonderful readers, so definitely give this book a go! This may not be for me, but it definitely could be that cosy murder mystery for you!
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