What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ministry of Curiosities #5
Ashes To Ashes
Charlie is gone, and Lincoln finds that Lichfield Towers offers no sanctuary. With reminders of her at every turn, and employees threatening to mutiny, he must try to find the murderer who is killing supernaturals on his own. And keep the murderer away from Charlie.
When the strongman from the visiting Barnum and Bailey's circus is murdered, Lincoln suspects a link, but piecing together the clues becomes dangerous and difficult work. He can't afford to be distracted, yet he finds he can't concentrate fully on the task. Even worse, Seth's mother, the incomparable Lady Vickers, has come to stay.
ASHES TO ASHES is a bonus novella-length story, told entirely from Lincoln's point of view. It is shorter than the rest of the books in the Ministry of Curiosities series.
When the strongman from the visiting Barnum and Bailey's circus is murdered, Lincoln suspects a link, but piecing together the clues becomes dangerous and difficult work. He can't afford to be distracted, yet he finds he can't concentrate fully on the task. Even worse, Seth's mother, the incomparable Lady Vickers, has come to stay.
ASHES TO ASHES is a bonus novella-length story, told entirely from Lincoln's point of view. It is shorter than the rest of the books in the Ministry of Curiosities series.
128 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 11, 2016
701 people are currently reading
1305 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Archer
96 books5,628 followersC.J. Archer is the USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of historical mystery and historical fantasy novels including the GLASS AND STEELE series, the CLEOPATRA FOX MYSTERIES, the MINISTRY OF CURIOSITIES and THE GLASS LIBRARY series.
She has loved history and books for as long as she can remember and feels fortunate that she found a way to combine the two. She has at various times worked as a librarian, IT support person and technical writer but in her heart has always been a fiction writer. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband, 2 children and Coco the black and white cat.
Subscribe to C.J.'s newsletter to be notified when she releases a new book. Join via her website: www.cjarcher.com
You can follow her on social media to get the latest updates on her books:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CJArcherAuthorPage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorcjarc...
She has loved history and books for as long as she can remember and feels fortunate that she found a way to combine the two. She has at various times worked as a librarian, IT support person and technical writer but in her heart has always been a fiction writer. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband, 2 children and Coco the black and white cat.
Subscribe to C.J.'s newsletter to be notified when she releases a new book. Join via her website: www.cjarcher.com
You can follow her on social media to get the latest updates on her books:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CJArcherAuthorPage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorcjarc...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
April 27, 2018
Ok. I have to say I feel a bit cheated in this book. I was well entrenched in the story at 70% on kindle, when it abruptly ended. The other 30% was the first chapter of a new series by the author! The story picks up with everyone more or less pining for Charlie. I felt like I was pining for Charlie too.
Archer has established a charming set of characters in Lincoln and his household and they are all held together by Charlie, so I’m looking forward to getting her back (presumably) in the next book.
Archer has established a charming set of characters in Lincoln and his household and they are all held together by Charlie, so I’m looking forward to getting her back (presumably) in the next book.
February 14, 2017
I've lost count on how many times I pulled my hair because of Lincoln's stubborness. I miss Charlie so bad. *nosedives into book 6*
July 31, 2017
With Charlie gone, Lincoln finds that Lichfield Towers offers no sanctuary. With reminders of her at every turn, and employees threatening to mutiny, he must try to find the murderer who is killing supernaturals on his own. Another victim leads to further leads, but is Lincoln too distracted to work efficiently
CHARACTERS- so this book, we had no Charlie . This book was told from Lincoln, which I love Lincoln but I didn't really like the book being told by him. I would have preferred it being told from Charlie because I think she's just so interesting. I'd rather hear about Lincoln from Charlie's point of view.
ROMANCE-
The romance was non-existent in this book. I did like that we got Lincoln telling us that he missed Charlie and that he wished he didn't send her to the school but I just wish there was more to this book.
PLOT-
This book was very short and it only took me 30 minutes to read. It was a bit boring though and as I said Lincoln wasn't my favrouite narrator.
ENDING-
I can't wait for the next book cause Charlie is back as the narrator.
Characters-7/10
Romance-??
Plot-7/10
Ending-8/10
Speed-9/10
CHARACTERS- so this book, we had no Charlie . This book was told from Lincoln, which I love Lincoln but I didn't really like the book being told by him. I would have preferred it being told from Charlie because I think she's just so interesting. I'd rather hear about Lincoln from Charlie's point of view.
ROMANCE-
The romance was non-existent in this book. I did like that we got Lincoln telling us that he missed Charlie and that he wished he didn't send her to the school but I just wish there was more to this book.
PLOT-
This book was very short and it only took me 30 minutes to read. It was a bit boring though and as I said Lincoln wasn't my favrouite narrator.
ENDING-
I can't wait for the next book cause Charlie is back as the narrator.
Characters-7/10
Romance-??
Plot-7/10
Ending-8/10
Speed-9/10
August 10, 2016
This was a short novella from Lincoln's point of view, that is set after Lincoln sends her away from Lichfield Park.
I actually really enjoyed this, which was surprising since I'm not usually a big fan of novellas. Nonetheless, it was great to finally gain a perspective into Lincoln's head and his opinions of the other characters, when in the previous books his thoughts have been so enigmatic.
In Ashes to Ashes, Lincoln continues the investigations to the serial murder of the paranormals and in the process uncovers further evidence that a member of the Ministry of Curiosities may be involved. I loved seeing Gus and Seth finally stand up to Lincoln by basically throwing an intervention about how much he changed since his fiancé was sent away. We also see the introduction of a new character and Seth's mother, Lady Vickers. I like the dynamic she develops with Lincoln and I can't wait to until Charlie and her meet in the next book.
All in all, after the way Grave Expectation ended, this novella gives us hope, since it ends with Lincoln finally coming to the epiphany that he needs Charlotte in his life - but I hope when Charlie comes back in the next book she at least gives him some grief for all he put her through.
I actually really enjoyed this, which was surprising since I'm not usually a big fan of novellas. Nonetheless, it was great to finally gain a perspective into Lincoln's head and his opinions of the other characters, when in the previous books his thoughts have been so enigmatic.
In Ashes to Ashes, Lincoln continues the investigations to the serial murder of the paranormals and in the process uncovers further evidence that a member of the Ministry of Curiosities may be involved. I loved seeing Gus and Seth finally stand up to Lincoln by basically throwing an intervention about how much he changed since his fiancé was sent away. We also see the introduction of a new character and Seth's mother, Lady Vickers. I like the dynamic she develops with Lincoln and I can't wait to until Charlie and her meet in the next book.
All in all, after the way Grave Expectation ended, this novella gives us hope, since it ends with Lincoln finally coming to the epiphany that he needs Charlotte in his life - but I hope when Charlie comes back in the next book she at least gives him some grief for all he put her through.
May 2, 2017
Lincoln is an idiot.
June 21, 2022
Oh no. Nope, nope, HECKA NO!!!
I can’t even fathom what possessed an otherwise gifted author to think it would be a good idea to end the fifth book in a series by absolutely ripping the heart out of her heroine and leaving said heroine (and readers) absolutely destroyed. Then, continuing the next book from the hero’s POV instead. Seriously, Charlie (the heroine) is not even in this book ONCE! Lincoln (the hero) just proceeds to work on solving the mysteries on his own.
Now, most know how much I hate full-stop endings. I doubly hate with a seething vengeance, full-stop endings that leave one completely devastated. Even so, I would at least understand IF things were put to rights and reconciled by the half-way point of the next book. But to completely ignore that heart-ripping, life destroying act and continue the series with the male protagonist going on with his life in the next book? This is a whole new level of disgust that I have never experienced before.
Unfortunately, (and I say that because I would usually just chuck the whole series at the wall and forget about it at this point) I love Charlie’s character enough that I’m actually going to continue. Can’t decide if I should be ashamed or not.
I can’t even fathom what possessed an otherwise gifted author to think it would be a good idea to end the fifth book in a series by absolutely ripping the heart out of her heroine and leaving said heroine (and readers) absolutely destroyed. Then, continuing the next book from the hero’s POV instead. Seriously, Charlie (the heroine) is not even in this book ONCE! Lincoln (the hero) just proceeds to work on solving the mysteries on his own.
Now, most know how much I hate full-stop endings. I doubly hate with a seething vengeance, full-stop endings that leave one completely devastated. Even so, I would at least understand IF things were put to rights and reconciled by the half-way point of the next book. But to completely ignore that heart-ripping, life destroying act and continue the series with the male protagonist going on with his life in the next book? This is a whole new level of disgust that I have never experienced before.
Unfortunately, (and I say that because I would usually just chuck the whole series at the wall and forget about it at this point) I love Charlie’s character enough that I’m actually going to continue. Can’t decide if I should be ashamed or not.
March 24, 2017
So this wasn't so bad. Normally I do not like novellas very well. I thought this one was fairly well done. Going into this I was really hoping that Lincoln spent some time regretting his decision to send Charlie away but he didn't. Rather, he was actually somewhat relieved - because despite his feelings for her, his life was less complicated without her in it. For selfish reasons he was kind of glad she was gone, despite the fact that he missed her terribly.
Okay, so this didn't really help endear Lincoln to me and I think I liked him a little bit less, but maybe respected the author a little bit more for it. I do get tired of these storybook heroes who can't be with the heroine any more "for her own good" and then the silly heroine pines away for them endlessly...bleh...Somehow Lincoln's selfish reasons were the most understandable. What it boils down to is a fear of committment and change. The reason I didn't mind this aspect is because I think that it's a very real human feeling. And I appreciated it that he was honest with himself about it. Not to say that the danger to Charlie's life wasn't real, but it did serve as a way to open the door for the two of them to more closely examine their relationship and what they want out of it. Better that way than to live miserably without ever having gotten things out in the open. I also imagine that Charlie won't let Lincoln off the hook so easily which is probably her best characteristic.
The rest of the plot was ok. I wasn't riveted but I did find out a few interesting facts about some of the side characters that I enjoyed. Really though, I think that without Charley in the mix, the rest of the characters lose some of their appeal.
Okay, so this didn't really help endear Lincoln to me and I think I liked him a little bit less, but maybe respected the author a little bit more for it. I do get tired of these storybook heroes who can't be with the heroine any more "for her own good" and then the silly heroine pines away for them endlessly...bleh...Somehow Lincoln's selfish reasons were the most understandable. What it boils down to is a fear of committment and change. The reason I didn't mind this aspect is because I think that it's a very real human feeling. And I appreciated it that he was honest with himself about it. Not to say that the danger to Charlie's life wasn't real, but it did serve as a way to open the door for the two of them to more closely examine their relationship and what they want out of it. Better that way than to live miserably without ever having gotten things out in the open. I also imagine that Charlie won't let Lincoln off the hook so easily which is probably her best characteristic.
The rest of the plot was ok. I wasn't riveted but I did find out a few interesting facts about some of the side characters that I enjoyed. Really though, I think that without Charley in the mix, the rest of the characters lose some of their appeal.
January 25, 2020
Pretty alright. Loved the introduction of Seth’s mum along with the Ministry Members wives. Julia has become even more of a nuisance and Lincoln didn’t do enough pining.
Plot wise, nothing really happened but seeing things from Lincoln’s perspective was interesting. I’m curious to see what happens in the next book.
I hope we get to kill Julia :))
Plot wise, nothing really happened but seeing things from Lincoln’s perspective was interesting. I’m curious to see what happens in the next book.
I hope we get to kill Julia :))
April 17, 2023
Volume pieno di angst e sensi di colpa, dato che Charlie in questo capitolo non c'è.
Mi è mancata abbastanza la sua presenza, ma Lincoln viene già tartassato dai suoi dipendenti per questo motivo. Sono troppo carini!
La trama non fa grandi passi in avanti, è una specie di volume transitorio, coraggiosa l'idea di rimuovere la protagonista per un po'.
Come sempre, bellissima la copertina.
Mi è mancata abbastanza la sua presenza, ma Lincoln viene già tartassato dai suoi dipendenti per questo motivo. Sono troppo carini!
La trama non fa grandi passi in avanti, è una specie di volume transitorio, coraggiosa l'idea di rimuovere la protagonista per un po'.
Come sempre, bellissima la copertina.
November 8, 2018
Very low three stars. First there were numerous contradictions to previously stated facts presented in the series which is a MASSIVE pet peeve for me in writing. If the writer is the one presenting the facts within their world then they ought to be respectful enough to remember them. For example in another book Seth said he was won in a card game where Fitzroy promised to pay his debts if he came to work for him. In this book it's an auction and Seth paid the debts himself. In the first book Charlie's clothes on the night she came were beyond repair and destroyed, they then replaced them with other mens garments which she kept and reused when they came in need, in this one they're folded neatly in her room. I could go on with listing contradictions but that would take longer than I wish to put into this review.
Additionally I said in previous reviews that I wasn't initially sure Lincoln was a redeemable character, the second and third novels swayed my opinions a little but the fourth book completely undid all forward progress the character made so the last thing I want to do is read anything from his point of view. It's hard to root for a character when you're more invested in the survival of parasites than the character you're supposed to be rooting for. To say I seriously dislike the character of Lincoln now is an understatement. Honestly I don't really want him back together with Charlie because he's not good enough for her and never has been. And I don't feel I'd have been upset if Archer had killed off his character in this installment, I'd probably feel he deserved it Obviously that's not the case, but I'm trying to illustrate how much I vehemently dislike the main character of this story which made it hard to give a damn what happened in this book. I strongly feel Archer went wrong with the direction of the characters in the last two books and don't see how she's ever going to get them back on track, even if Lincoln apologizes, or sacrifices himself to save her life I don't think he's ever going to be redeemable or good enough for Charlie.
Additionally plot wise, there are a lot of scenes and a few new characters introduced but overall nothing really happened in the book, the plot has no forward momentum in the overall stories, Lincoln investigates, hits a lot of dead ends, learns much of nothing and alienates all his friends leaving him alone. That's all. The new character with the largest role, Lady Vickers, is obnoxious and less likeable than Lincoln, especially in the audiobook because the voice given to her grated on my ears like nails on a chalkboard. The two council wives introduced peaked my interest but their roles are so small they weren't enough to save this story.
Overall I loathed this installment in the series and while I probably will listen to the next book without major improvements I'm done with the series because it's not worth reading if the characters become so unlikable you fail to care what happens to them.
Additionally I said in previous reviews that I wasn't initially sure Lincoln was a redeemable character, the second and third novels swayed my opinions a little but the fourth book completely undid all forward progress the character made so the last thing I want to do is read anything from his point of view. It's hard to root for a character when you're more invested in the survival of parasites than the character you're supposed to be rooting for. To say I seriously dislike the character of Lincoln now is an understatement. Honestly I don't really want him back together with Charlie because he's not good enough for her and never has been. And I don't feel I'd have been upset if Archer had killed off his character in this installment, I'd probably feel he deserved it Obviously that's not the case, but I'm trying to illustrate how much I vehemently dislike the main character of this story which made it hard to give a damn what happened in this book. I strongly feel Archer went wrong with the direction of the characters in the last two books and don't see how she's ever going to get them back on track, even if Lincoln apologizes, or sacrifices himself to save her life I don't think he's ever going to be redeemable or good enough for Charlie.
Additionally plot wise, there are a lot of scenes and a few new characters introduced but overall nothing really happened in the book, the plot has no forward momentum in the overall stories, Lincoln investigates, hits a lot of dead ends, learns much of nothing and alienates all his friends leaving him alone. That's all. The new character with the largest role, Lady Vickers, is obnoxious and less likeable than Lincoln, especially in the audiobook because the voice given to her grated on my ears like nails on a chalkboard. The two council wives introduced peaked my interest but their roles are so small they weren't enough to save this story.
Overall I loathed this installment in the series and while I probably will listen to the next book without major improvements I'm done with the series because it's not worth reading if the characters become so unlikable you fail to care what happens to them.
March 26, 2021
Haha, I was so confused when I started this. I was 30 minutes in when I took a look and saw the book was only about 4 hours long. I don't remember there being a book just from Lincoln's perspective, but it is definitely fun to get his side of things. Especially because it was in between the time him and Charlie were a part. He is usually such a tight lipped unemotional character, but this book shows the changes that went through him because of Charlie.
That does not mean that I wasn't ticked off at him. Because I was...
And I do hope Charlie really makes him suffer for what he did. (I can't remember if she did). But I still want them to be together and for more of Lincoln's humanity to come out of the woodwork. And for us to discover who is behind all the murders.
That does not mean that I wasn't ticked off at him. Because I was...
And I do hope Charlie really makes him suffer for what he did. (I can't remember if she did). But I still want them to be together and for more of Lincoln's humanity to come out of the woodwork. And for us to discover who is behind all the murders.
November 16, 2017
This is marked as book 5 in the series, but it’s a novella — the price does reflect that (it’s cheaper than the full books) so it’s not like I felt ripped off or anything, but I don’t believe it contributes a whole lot to the overall story and I kind of wish I had skipped it.
It’s also written from Lincoln‘s viewpoint, and frankly I didn’t find him very likable here; I guess seeing him from Charlie’s viewpoint was much more flattering, because he is kind of odd, aggressive and neurotic.
The storyline doesn’t really progress here so reading it didn’t really help with the suspense, particularly as it ends in a cliff-hanger.
Just move on straight to From The Ashes, do not pass go, do not collect 200.
It’s also written from Lincoln‘s viewpoint, and frankly I didn’t find him very likable here; I guess seeing him from Charlie’s viewpoint was much more flattering, because he is kind of odd, aggressive and neurotic.
The storyline doesn’t really progress here so reading it didn’t really help with the suspense, particularly as it ends in a cliff-hanger.
Just move on straight to From The Ashes, do not pass go, do not collect 200.
October 4, 2016
A big "eff you" to you, Lincoln.
February 17, 2021
This book was from Lincolns POV. It humanizes him more letting you see his true thoughts and feelings vs what he allows people to see.
December 31, 2021
Ashes to Ashes
Ministry of Curiosities, Book 5
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the series
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: Hoopla via P Public Library
Dates Read: 12/7/21 - 12/7/21
Stars: 4 Stars
Narrator(s): Shiromi Arserio
The Characters:
Lincoln:
Seth, Gus, Cook, the butler
The Story:
Review to come.
The Random Thoughts:
Ministry of Curiosities, Book 5
I Picked Up This Book Because: Continue the series
Media Type: Audiobook
Source: Hoopla via P Public Library
Dates Read: 12/7/21 - 12/7/21
Stars: 4 Stars
Narrator(s): Shiromi Arserio
The Characters:
Lincoln:
Seth, Gus, Cook, the butler
The Story:
Review to come.
The Random Thoughts:
April 15, 2021
"But for a reason he couldn't fathom, he wanted to answer. "Yes. I miss her." He tilted his head forward and looked at each of them in turn. He needed to get his next point across. "But it will pass."
They scoffed. Gus shook his head. "You're a fool if you think we believe that," Seth said.
"You're a fool if you believe it," Gus added."
Yeah, buddy! He deserves to hear it.
I'm still mad at you, Lincoln.
I hope Charlie gives you hell for it.
They scoffed. Gus shook his head. "You're a fool if you think we believe that," Seth said.
"You're a fool if you believe it," Gus added."
Yeah, buddy! He deserves to hear it.
I'm still mad at you, Lincoln.
I hope Charlie gives you hell for it.
February 1, 2021
3 and a bit....
Although the world was still there is was really strange without Charlie.
Still Seths Mother was something else, and was nice to really understand Lincolns distaste in lady Harcourt after all her sly ways....
Although the world was still there is was really strange without Charlie.
Still Seths Mother was something else, and was nice to really understand Lincolns distaste in lady Harcourt after all her sly ways....
June 20, 2022
Reads like a filler episode and told from Lincoln's perspective it doesn't have the snap of the other volumes.
*Annoyance. Lincoln pours a 'tumbler' of brandy. Brandy is usually consumed in a snifter (much smaller glass). Avg. size for tumblers: 16 oz. Avg. size for snifter is 6 oz, and they are usually not filled beyond 2 or 3 oz. He pours three in succession and; It didn't clear his head, only made the fog denser. If he'd had three tumblers of brandy in quick succession he'd be unconscious and possibly suffering from alcohol poising.
*Annoyance. Lincoln pours a 'tumbler' of brandy. Brandy is usually consumed in a snifter (much smaller glass). Avg. size for tumblers: 16 oz. Avg. size for snifter is 6 oz, and they are usually not filled beyond 2 or 3 oz. He pours three in succession and; It didn't clear his head, only made the fog denser. If he'd had three tumblers of brandy in quick succession he'd be unconscious and possibly suffering from alcohol poising.
November 5, 2020
This was a quick read telling of some of the time after Charlie has been sent away. It was interesting to see some things from Lincoln's POV.
February 25, 2018
This book felt more like a novella. I didn't enjoy it as much as the others.
January 22, 2017
“Ashes To Ashes” is the fifth book in “The Ministry of Curiosities” series. It is also a bonus novella-length story, told entirely from Lincoln’s point of view. It is shorter than the rest of the books in the Ministry of Curiosities series. Fair warning that this series has some dark content and I would recommend it for mature audiences, preferably whom are not too squeamish.
Charlie is gone, and Lincoln finds that Lichfield Towers offers no sanctuary. With reminders of her at every turn, and employees threatening to mutiny, he must try to find the murderer who is killing supernaturals on his own. And keep the murderer away from Charlie. When the strongman from the visiting Barnum and Bailey’s circus is murdered, Lincoln suspects a link, but piecing together the clues becomes dangerous and difficult work. He can’t afford to be distracted, yet he finds he can’t concentrate fully on the task. Even worse, Seth’s mother, the incomparable Lady Vickers, has come to stay.
It’s clear that Lincoln is struggling with his decision as he keeps telling himself that everything will go back to normal in time. Lincoln thinks he’s doing what’s best for both Charlie and himself, but when the realization that he made a mistake sinks in, so does the panic. His friends inside Lichfield are trying to make them see reason, but Lincoln is stubborn. It’s nice to see things from Lincoln’s point of view, even if he is wrong. Not only is “Ashes To Ashes,” a bonus novella, it also contains preview content of, “The watchmaker’s Daughter.” The next book in the Ministry of curiosities” series is “From The Ashes.”
Author: C.J. Archer
Ashes To Ashes: The Ministry of Curiosities series
Charlie is gone, and Lincoln finds that Lichfield Towers offers no sanctuary. With reminders of her at every turn, and employees threatening to mutiny, he must try to find the murderer who is killing supernaturals on his own. And keep the murderer away from Charlie. When the strongman from the visiting Barnum and Bailey’s circus is murdered, Lincoln suspects a link, but piecing together the clues becomes dangerous and difficult work. He can’t afford to be distracted, yet he finds he can’t concentrate fully on the task. Even worse, Seth’s mother, the incomparable Lady Vickers, has come to stay.
It’s clear that Lincoln is struggling with his decision as he keeps telling himself that everything will go back to normal in time. Lincoln thinks he’s doing what’s best for both Charlie and himself, but when the realization that he made a mistake sinks in, so does the panic. His friends inside Lichfield are trying to make them see reason, but Lincoln is stubborn. It’s nice to see things from Lincoln’s point of view, even if he is wrong. Not only is “Ashes To Ashes,” a bonus novella, it also contains preview content of, “The watchmaker’s Daughter.” The next book in the Ministry of curiosities” series is “From The Ashes.”
Author: C.J. Archer
Ashes To Ashes: The Ministry of Curiosities series
September 19, 2016
I knew this was a novella going into it, so I wasn't concerned that it wasn't going to be full length. It was nice to get some perspective from Lincoln's side, however, he still remains quite enigmatic and, frankly, the most annoying hot-and-cold brooding irritating man I've ever known!!
SPOILERS!!
Thankfully, by the end, he has realised the error of his ways in sending Charlie away, so the next book should be back to somewhat normal.
Also, Seth and Gus leaving because Lincoln wouldn't bring Charlie back - that was awesome. Nice to see them developing some opinions of their own... instead of just being Lincoln's messenger boys.
SPOILERS!!
Thankfully, by the end, he has realised the error of his ways in sending Charlie away, so the next book should be back to somewhat normal.
Also, Seth and Gus leaving because Lincoln wouldn't bring Charlie back - that was awesome. Nice to see them developing some opinions of their own... instead of just being Lincoln's messenger boys.
May 5, 2016
I love the Ministry of Curiosities series! C.J. Archer is an amazing story-teller and Lincoln is the quintessential brooding, tall, dark and handsome hero. That said, I didn't love this installment of the series, because even though it was great to get Lincoln's perceptive and voice, I missed Charlie and the cliffhanger from the previous book overshadowed the entire plot of this one. Still, I cannot wait to see what has happened to Charlie in the next book!!!!
August 22, 2016
This was like the filler episode in the middle of a series where you just want to get to the main plot, but you still have to sit through it in case you miss anything.
October 7, 2016
Pretty short, felt more like a novella than an actual book in a series. Also, mostly Lincoln being an idiot.
November 26, 2019
Eh, fills the hole between books but.....not much there and I was hoping for a little growth in character for Lincoln. Not so much.
August 22, 2020
I think this one should be subtitled "In Defence of Lincoln Fitzroy". I was all set to acutely despise this story told from Lincoln's third person point of view, but it surprised me that actually, without the "romance" drama coming to centre stage with his every interaction, he's not a bad character. Just a terrible, terrible love interest.
It's only a short episode, one in which the investigation of supernatural murders doesn't progress much, but we meet Seth's stubborn mother and witness Seth and Gus finally standing up to their acidic boss.
When the romance concept crops up, it's still a bit heavy-handed. Everyone's obsession with his being unmarried? Did no one in society care prior to Charliegate? And Seth insisting that Lincoln changed for the better with Charlie, that he's acting irrationally now? Ha. Haha. Ha. No. I understood why Lincoln acted in his usual distant sort of way rather than that hot-flash-sudden-frost he had with Charlie which I could not fathom. He's reverted to type, and I get him for that, and (le gasp) like him more as an unlikeable, emotionally unavailable Sherlock-type who might just have room in his heart to miss someone but never be capable of the pulpy paperback idea of romantic lead.
Again, I like the general mystery stuff involving the Barnum & Bailey Circus and the like (supernaturals are all so nice), I like the side characters being themselves (even if Seth's heated words seemed forced) and I'm shocked to find Charlie's absence was actually a benefit (no more histrionics over if he wuvs her, boo-hoo).
There are increasing numbers of editorial things cropping up (when did Lincoln stop wearing trousers and start wearing pants? Even in Victorian England I'm pretty sure they're different levels of undress...), and I don't feel the writing is quite as tight as it had been in the first three books. Minor points, but it bothered my nitpicky brain.
I'm a little afraid to go straight into the next book given how urgh the "romance" is and how afraid I am that they have to be together despite the emotionally abuse thing they had going on. I'm still invested enough after this to check it out, just... Concerned about where it's going.
It's only a short episode, one in which the investigation of supernatural murders doesn't progress much, but we meet Seth's stubborn mother and witness Seth and Gus finally standing up to their acidic boss.
When the romance concept crops up, it's still a bit heavy-handed. Everyone's obsession with his being unmarried? Did no one in society care prior to Charliegate? And Seth insisting that Lincoln changed for the better with Charlie, that he's acting irrationally now? Ha. Haha. Ha. No. I understood why Lincoln acted in his usual distant sort of way rather than that hot-flash-sudden-frost he had with Charlie which I could not fathom. He's reverted to type, and I get him for that, and (le gasp) like him more as an unlikeable, emotionally unavailable Sherlock-type who might just have room in his heart to miss someone but never be capable of the pulpy paperback idea of romantic lead.
Again, I like the general mystery stuff involving the Barnum & Bailey Circus and the like (supernaturals are all so nice), I like the side characters being themselves (even if Seth's heated words seemed forced) and I'm shocked to find Charlie's absence was actually a benefit (no more histrionics over if he wuvs her, boo-hoo).
There are increasing numbers of editorial things cropping up (when did Lincoln stop wearing trousers and start wearing pants? Even in Victorian England I'm pretty sure they're different levels of undress...), and I don't feel the writing is quite as tight as it had been in the first three books. Minor points, but it bothered my nitpicky brain.
I'm a little afraid to go straight into the next book given how urgh the "romance" is and how afraid I am that they have to be together despite the emotionally abuse thing they had going on. I'm still invested enough after this to check it out, just... Concerned about where it's going.
May 6, 2019
2*
This half-a-novel was kind of a waste. This book is from Lincoln’s perspective, but it was amazing to me that other than the lack of sentimental thoughts of love, he had an almost identical voice to Charlie. Forgive my saying so, but this proves my typical stance that author’s need to be good at switching viewpoints for it to make sense and enhance the story in any way. Unfortunately, Archer demonstrated her lack of skill in this area and I’d caution her to stick with one viewpoint in the future.
Additionally, this novel had almost no point to it. Lincoln continues the unsolved investigation from Grave Expectations (#4) but not only is this process very slow (and still unsolved by the end of the novel), Lincoln does not grow as a character (or in his feelings for Charlie) at all. Lincoln is determined that Charlie is nothing but a hindrance to him and her presence is a distraction he doesn’t need in his life. He would love for things to go back to the way they were before she’d ever come into his life. We learn nothing new and he has no epiphany about his love for Charlie. So, what was the purpose of this book? I’m still confused about it and I feel like it was just an excuse to charge me $3.00 for my ebook copy.
Like Grave Expectations (#4), this novel also had a lot of grammatical errors that should’ve been corrected. But the worst thing is that this novel felt the need to drop the F-bomb. It only happens once but for a book that says things like “he cursed under his breath” vs actually spelling out exactly the curse words a character used, this French gem seemed to come out of nowhere. I admit that I have become a little de-sensitized to cussing and I rarely (if ever) rate a book a lower score because of the language (unless it’s too excessive), but I’m less than thrilled when I’m blindsided by crass language in an otherwise clean novel. Again, it’s not something that would’ve destroyed the integrity of the book but this series’ problems are starting to compound and I’m questioning whether it’s worth pursuing (and paying for) additional novels.
This half-a-novel was kind of a waste. This book is from Lincoln’s perspective, but it was amazing to me that other than the lack of sentimental thoughts of love, he had an almost identical voice to Charlie. Forgive my saying so, but this proves my typical stance that author’s need to be good at switching viewpoints for it to make sense and enhance the story in any way. Unfortunately, Archer demonstrated her lack of skill in this area and I’d caution her to stick with one viewpoint in the future.
Additionally, this novel had almost no point to it. Lincoln continues the unsolved investigation from Grave Expectations (#4) but not only is this process very slow (and still unsolved by the end of the novel), Lincoln does not grow as a character (or in his feelings for Charlie) at all. Lincoln is determined that Charlie is nothing but a hindrance to him and her presence is a distraction he doesn’t need in his life. He would love for things to go back to the way they were before she’d ever come into his life. We learn nothing new and he has no epiphany about his love for Charlie. So, what was the purpose of this book? I’m still confused about it and I feel like it was just an excuse to charge me $3.00 for my ebook copy.
Like Grave Expectations (#4), this novel also had a lot of grammatical errors that should’ve been corrected. But the worst thing is that this novel felt the need to drop the F-bomb. It only happens once but for a book that says things like “he cursed under his breath” vs actually spelling out exactly the curse words a character used, this French gem seemed to come out of nowhere. I admit that I have become a little de-sensitized to cussing and I rarely (if ever) rate a book a lower score because of the language (unless it’s too excessive), but I’m less than thrilled when I’m blindsided by crass language in an otherwise clean novel. Again, it’s not something that would’ve destroyed the integrity of the book but this series’ problems are starting to compound and I’m questioning whether it’s worth pursuing (and paying for) additional novels.
June 10, 2024
This book is considerably better because it removes the very irritating character of Charlie. That stupid b**** seems to have opinions about everything and seems to think that she should be treated as Lady of the house everywhere. Even though she insists on breaking all customs by being called Charlie and not Miss or my lady, that doesn't make her one who associates with the people or thinks she's put down on the level of servant like everyone else. Else. This idiot woman clearly thinks that she should be treated as if she is. Owner of the operation, is the most important person in every room she walks in, and she'd be treated like not only she's the most capable one in the room but also the one who can pay all the bills and has all the resources. She's not any of those things. And expects to be treated that way. She's the most loathsome awful female character.
And now to react to Lincoln who's kind of being a b****. Pathetic and falling apart even though that's supposed to not be his MO at all. Completely not like himself, completely against all of his training, and we're supposed to expect this change to happen within a couple weeks... B*******. Also, most disappointing about this book is Gus and Seth. There's no way that long-time employees of this guy Lincoln who got saved by Lincoln literally saved out of the horrible experiences that they were going to incur, and given presentable. Respectable place to live presentable and one might say important line of work and payments that these Men would completely betray the hand that saved them, house. Them, fed them, gave them purpose all over some d****** girl that they met for all of a couple weeks. I don't care if they like to. Kind of like a little sister. I'm sorry these guys are assholes if their loyalty evaporates that quickly. It's clearly a woman that writes this book because this is not how men... At least good men operate. And we were led to believe that both Gus and Seth were good men.
And now to react to Lincoln who's kind of being a b****. Pathetic and falling apart even though that's supposed to not be his MO at all. Completely not like himself, completely against all of his training, and we're supposed to expect this change to happen within a couple weeks... B*******. Also, most disappointing about this book is Gus and Seth. There's no way that long-time employees of this guy Lincoln who got saved by Lincoln literally saved out of the horrible experiences that they were going to incur, and given presentable. Respectable place to live presentable and one might say important line of work and payments that these Men would completely betray the hand that saved them, house. Them, fed them, gave them purpose all over some d****** girl that they met for all of a couple weeks. I don't care if they like to. Kind of like a little sister. I'm sorry these guys are assholes if their loyalty evaporates that quickly. It's clearly a woman that writes this book because this is not how men... At least good men operate. And we were led to believe that both Gus and Seth were good men.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews