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Sarah Tanner #1
A Most Dangerous Woman
It was said that she had the good manners of a respectable upper servant but was far too young to have been pensioned; that she spoke as if she had received and education, but knew the costers' slang as if she were born-and-bred to it; and that she not only had no husband - which was a commonplace on Leather Lane - but seemed never to have possessed one...'
When the mysterious Sarah Tanner opens her Dining and Coffee Rooms on the corner of Leather Lane and Liquorpond Street, her arrival amongst the poor market-traders causes something of a stir. Few doubt that she has 'a past'; no-one could have predicted how it will return to haunt her...
When an old friend is brutally murdered, Sarah Tanner is the only witness. Unable to turn to the police, she finds herself drawn back into the dark underworld of the Victorian metropolis... Relying on her wits, and trading on her past, Sarah Tanner risks her own life on a desperate quest for justice and vengeance.
When the mysterious Sarah Tanner opens her Dining and Coffee Rooms on the corner of Leather Lane and Liquorpond Street, her arrival amongst the poor market-traders causes something of a stir. Few doubt that she has 'a past'; no-one could have predicted how it will return to haunt her...
When an old friend is brutally murdered, Sarah Tanner is the only witness. Unable to turn to the police, she finds herself drawn back into the dark underworld of the Victorian metropolis... Relying on her wits, and trading on her past, Sarah Tanner risks her own life on a desperate quest for justice and vengeance.
356 pages, Paperback
First published April 5, 2007
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810 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 27, 2016
One fine day I came upon a series of books called "Silent in the.." by an author named Deanna Raybourn.Great! I thought an historical fiction with a female sleuth to boot.This can not be bad in any way.
...Well it was so-so.
I gave up my hopes for finding a good Victorian Era Lady Sleuth Book
Until I found "A most dangerous woman" by LM Jackson
It all starts when a mysterious woman called Sarah Tanner opens up a coffee house in a seedy street in Leather Lane,London.
No one knows where she comes from but her new neigbours all agree that she is bound to have a dark and mysterious PAST(thats in capital letters folks)
Not soon after she is recognized by an old friend,who hardly makes it out of the door before he is murdered.But why? Sarah decides to set out and discover the truth.
Even if it means she has to face old foes and other dickensian London obstacles.Like a Victorian female crime boss that goes by the name of "Her Majesty and her henchman,the suave and violent Symes and many other villains from the London underworld.
I was hooked.
Sarah Tanner is a bit unconventional,but she feels real within the era that she lives in.And while she isnt from exactly upper class or working class she knows how to act both downstairs and upstairs.The other characters both villains supporting character feels real and substantial.
The mystery is quite good and well thought out,as I didnt figure out who was the culprit until the protagonist did and even then youre in for some twists and turns in the plot.
Its a historical fiction,with a mystery and a heroine with a backbone that isnt a Mary Sue .Whats not to like?
I am quite sad that there probably wont be a third book in the series as the second book raises some question about the future for the main character. I even asked the author about it.
Kagama
Just finished "The mesmerists apprentice"...
and I found it very enjoyable.Was a bit disappointed though that it didnt feature "her Majesty" or Symes.I thought their affairs with Sarah werent quite finished.
I would also like to find out more of Sarahs past Perhaps in a future book?
LM.Jackson
"Glad you enjoyed Mesmerist's ... always nice to know some people are actually reading my books! My plans for the next Sarah Tanner book definitely feature Symes and Her Majesty, and at least one crucial event from her past ... check back with me in 12 months or so ...!
In fact, I confess, Sarah Tanner's UK future hangs on a publishing knife-edge at present ... however, my books are doing well in France (merci, mes amis!) which makes another ST book more likely, even it's retrospectively published 'on-demand' by me, from the French edition (!). best wishes, Lee (ps. see my other books published as "Lee Jackson
Kagama
"Vive le french!^^ Its too bad to hear..But I hope things picks up
This was in 2008..
...Well it was so-so.
I gave up my hopes for finding a good Victorian Era Lady Sleuth Book
Until I found "A most dangerous woman" by LM Jackson
It all starts when a mysterious woman called Sarah Tanner opens up a coffee house in a seedy street in Leather Lane,London.
No one knows where she comes from but her new neigbours all agree that she is bound to have a dark and mysterious PAST(thats in capital letters folks)
Not soon after she is recognized by an old friend,who hardly makes it out of the door before he is murdered.But why? Sarah decides to set out and discover the truth.
Even if it means she has to face old foes and other dickensian London obstacles.Like a Victorian female crime boss that goes by the name of "Her Majesty and her henchman,the suave and violent Symes and many other villains from the London underworld.
I was hooked.
Sarah Tanner is a bit unconventional,but she feels real within the era that she lives in.And while she isnt from exactly upper class or working class she knows how to act both downstairs and upstairs.The other characters both villains supporting character feels real and substantial.
The mystery is quite good and well thought out,as I didnt figure out who was the culprit until the protagonist did and even then youre in for some twists and turns in the plot.
Its a historical fiction,with a mystery and a heroine with a backbone that isnt a Mary Sue .Whats not to like?
I am quite sad that there probably wont be a third book in the series as the second book raises some question about the future for the main character. I even asked the author about it.
Kagama
Just finished "The mesmerists apprentice"...
and I found it very enjoyable.Was a bit disappointed though that it didnt feature "her Majesty" or Symes.I thought their affairs with Sarah werent quite finished.
I would also like to find out more of Sarahs past Perhaps in a future book?
LM.Jackson
"Glad you enjoyed Mesmerist's ... always nice to know some people are actually reading my books! My plans for the next Sarah Tanner book definitely feature Symes and Her Majesty, and at least one crucial event from her past ... check back with me in 12 months or so ...!
In fact, I confess, Sarah Tanner's UK future hangs on a publishing knife-edge at present ... however, my books are doing well in France (merci, mes amis!) which makes another ST book more likely, even it's retrospectively published 'on-demand' by me, from the French edition (!). best wishes, Lee (ps. see my other books published as "Lee Jackson
Kagama
"Vive le french!^^ Its too bad to hear..But I hope things picks up
This was in 2008..
August 5, 2012
This is an extremely enjoyable Victorian era murder mystery, with the added benefit of the main character being a smart, resourceful, utterly fearless woman, particularly for the times.
"Mrs" Sarah Tanner owner and proprietor of her Dining and Coffee Rooms at the corner of Leather Land and Liquorpond Street, is a bit of an oddity to the locals. She clearly has some sort of past, and the contradictions of her character and mannerisms suggest she once lived a much higher life. But Mrs. Tanner simply wants to run her business and doesn't care to discuss her personal situation or her past with anyone.
Until, that is, a friend from her past is brutally murdered and Sarah happens upon the scene just in time to see him breath his last. Sarah determines that someone has to get justice for this man, and since no one else seems inclined, she will have to do it herself.
Sarah's determination quickly involves her in a nefarious plot with far-reaching implications, including bringing her back into proximity of people from her past she'd rather didn't know she was still alive, let alone her current whereabouts. She must also ask for help from others from her past, that, while the association was more pleasant, they had thought they'd said their final goodbyes.
The character of Sarah is very interesting and out of the ordinary for this time-frame. She is terribly smart, completely independant, and has enough street smarts because of her past life - which involved somewhat less than "legal" behaviours - that she is totally believeable when she goes places, does things, and accomplishes results, that one might not ordinarily buy from a Victorian era woman.
The story as well is quite engrossing. There are a number of complicated twists and turns that are uncovered by Sarah as she tries to unravel the reasons behind her friend's murder, and as she becomes more and more deeply involved in other people's machinations, she continues to try to do what is right, without ending up dead herself as a thank you for her efforts.
To give more detail would be to create spoilers. Suffice it to say, if you like the Victorian era and clever, well-written murder mysteries, not to mention strong female protagonists, this book may be for you. I very much enjoyed it!
"Mrs" Sarah Tanner owner and proprietor of her Dining and Coffee Rooms at the corner of Leather Land and Liquorpond Street, is a bit of an oddity to the locals. She clearly has some sort of past, and the contradictions of her character and mannerisms suggest she once lived a much higher life. But Mrs. Tanner simply wants to run her business and doesn't care to discuss her personal situation or her past with anyone.
Until, that is, a friend from her past is brutally murdered and Sarah happens upon the scene just in time to see him breath his last. Sarah determines that someone has to get justice for this man, and since no one else seems inclined, she will have to do it herself.
Sarah's determination quickly involves her in a nefarious plot with far-reaching implications, including bringing her back into proximity of people from her past she'd rather didn't know she was still alive, let alone her current whereabouts. She must also ask for help from others from her past, that, while the association was more pleasant, they had thought they'd said their final goodbyes.
The character of Sarah is very interesting and out of the ordinary for this time-frame. She is terribly smart, completely independant, and has enough street smarts because of her past life - which involved somewhat less than "legal" behaviours - that she is totally believeable when she goes places, does things, and accomplishes results, that one might not ordinarily buy from a Victorian era woman.
The story as well is quite engrossing. There are a number of complicated twists and turns that are uncovered by Sarah as she tries to unravel the reasons behind her friend's murder, and as she becomes more and more deeply involved in other people's machinations, she continues to try to do what is right, without ending up dead herself as a thank you for her efforts.
To give more detail would be to create spoilers. Suffice it to say, if you like the Victorian era and clever, well-written murder mysteries, not to mention strong female protagonists, this book may be for you. I very much enjoyed it!
September 29, 2023
I went in with zero expectations about this book and found it to be genuinely entertaining. I wasn’t sure how fast paced the plot was going to be, but I was surprised I liked it as much as I did. It wasn’t predictable and the author didn’t overdo the lingo of the era which was sooo nice. If you’re in the mood for an 1850’s mystery I recommend you give this one a try.
August 4, 2012
Generally speaking I enjoy a good historical mystery novel, and I had high hopes for this book. Unfortunately it didn’t thrill me as much as I had expected. Mainly because I thought the plot of the story was a bit too convoluted, and at the same time unlikely and un-intriguing, for my taste. Nevertheless the author did a great job to render the atmosphere and setting of Victorian London, and developed the characters enough for me to continue reading. True, Sarah Tanner is a very courageous woman as we discover bit by bit the world of deceit and disrepute she left behind, to start a new life as a Coffee house keeper - but I do regret that we really never get to know the real Sarah Tanner or what lies in her heart. The old waiter Ralph Grundy was probably one of my favorite characters.
Despite the fact that I never got enthralled by the mystery plot, I did enjoy the use of the English language giving that Victorian era more authenticity.
**2,5** stars
Despite the fact that I never got enthralled by the mystery plot, I did enjoy the use of the English language giving that Victorian era more authenticity.
**2,5** stars
May 11, 2011
Despite the fact that I really enjoyed this book, and getting to know the characters found within, it took me a very long time to read such a short piece. This could be because the narrative style was a little detached, and I often find such styles hard to plough through - this is, of course, personal preference.
I enjoyed the premise (a gory murder), the setting (working class Victorian London), the fiesty main character and all her friends, present associates and past associates.
The main character intrigues me. She's trying to reinvent herself, move on from seedy past. I'd also really like to know more about her previous relationship with Arthur DeSalle, which is only teasingly hinted at in this book.
I enjoyed the premise (a gory murder), the setting (working class Victorian London), the fiesty main character and all her friends, present associates and past associates.
The main character intrigues me. She's trying to reinvent herself, move on from seedy past. I'd also really like to know more about her previous relationship with Arthur DeSalle, which is only teasingly hinted at in this book.
July 12, 2012
This was the first Lee Jackson novel I read and I have to admit my expectations were not high when I made my order. What a lovely surprise this book was! Lots of great period detail and an interesting murder story with a good pace. Added to that is the ongoing mystery of Sarah herself, as events slowly unfold to tell us about her past.
Sarah really appealled to me as a character and I sincerely hope that this book is the first in a series because I want to read about her again.
Sarah really appealled to me as a character and I sincerely hope that this book is the first in a series because I want to read about her again.
December 22, 2014
There's a slow build to the mystery, and it takes a bit before you really feel that Sarah Tanner has any good reason to press on investigating in the face of the dangers coming at her. The setting is well-done and some of the characters are very likable. I'd enjoy spending more time with Ralph at least. I'm not so sure I care for Mrs. Tanner. I don't dislike her - I could take her or leave her - but that is not the sort of sentiment your main protagonist should inspire.
July 25, 2013
I enjoyed this, maybe more than the Metropolitan murder series. LM (Lee) Jackson has a very obvious interest in Victorian London and this comes across vividly in the writing. Maybe to the slight detriment of the plot on occasion. I'll buy more of these, and so should you.
February 1, 2010
Good read for folks that enjoy that era, which I do..Found it a tadge Catherine Cookson in London goes dark!!
Twists and turns are fun and very easy to read.
Twists and turns are fun and very easy to read.
October 9, 2010
I really liked this book. I liked the characters right from the start. 1850's London was depicted quite well. I could imagine it all. Good story with a twist at the end. Moved pretty fast too.
June 12, 2012
Highly engrossing. One of the best Victorian crime novels I've read in quite some time. Wonderful characters and plot. Highly recommended for fans of Anne Perry, Victoria Thompson, Michael Cox.
September 3, 2013
A good read, good pace with feeling descriptions of 19th century London, with surprising twists and turn (for me at least). Looking forward to reading the sequel
February 7, 2011
Brilliant book
November 18, 2017
A Most Dangerous Woman summarized:
Everyone: Sarah, no.
Sarah Tanner: Sarah, yes!
Joking aside, I did really enjoy the books. Though Sarah’s reasons for getting involved are a bit slim and the plot became very convoluted, I liked the characters and the book had a great sense of place and atmosphere, as well as tension and danger.
Everyone: Sarah, no.
Sarah Tanner: Sarah, yes!
Joking aside, I did really enjoy the books. Though Sarah’s reasons for getting involved are a bit slim and the plot became very convoluted, I liked the characters and the book had a great sense of place and atmosphere, as well as tension and danger.
May 8, 2017
While I enjoyed this book, I also sort of kept forgetting that it was a mystery. I'm going to call that a tribute to the author's excellent grasp of the Victorian era rather than a mystery fail.
December 6, 2017
Couldn't get in to it, ended up skimming through it.
December 25, 2017
She may be a dangerous woman, but after reading this she doesn't seem like a very interesting woman.
July 3, 2023
This was very easy to read and engaging. Really enjoyed it.
It’s not a huge historical thriller BUT it’s very amusing and enjoyable so I’m off to read the second book in the series.
It’s not a huge historical thriller BUT it’s very amusing and enjoyable so I’m off to read the second book in the series.
April 18, 2025
A story of the rich and pampered and how they can get away with murder.
September 25, 2011
I have been looking for a new series for a long time now and I thought this book might be the beginning of a good series and the end of a quest for me. I am fussy about my fiction...I like details and well developed characters who have realistic relationships and I like stories with logical reasons behind characters motivations for doing the things they do.
This book is for readers who don't care so much about the details of the setting or the logic behind the events that unfold. People who like a quick paced mystery where the protagonist's every effort is rewarded with another step closer to the objective will enjoy this story.
For me it was all too unlikely and unrealistic. The writing wasn't horrible, neither was it very good. The dialogue wasn't very good, neither was it horrible. I didn't dislike it enough to give up on it but I can't recommend it to anyone either.
I do know that I am still looking for a series that fits my tastes. I recently listened to the first three audio books in the Sally Lockhart series by Philip Pullman and I thought they were wonderful. I also loved the Julian Kestrel series by Kate Ross and the Captain Lacey series by Ashley Gardner. If you are a fan of those series or you're willing to recommend something similar in a series that you enjoyed please leave me a comment and let me know what you recommend, thanks so much.
This book is for readers who don't care so much about the details of the setting or the logic behind the events that unfold. People who like a quick paced mystery where the protagonist's every effort is rewarded with another step closer to the objective will enjoy this story.
For me it was all too unlikely and unrealistic. The writing wasn't horrible, neither was it very good. The dialogue wasn't very good, neither was it horrible. I didn't dislike it enough to give up on it but I can't recommend it to anyone either.
I do know that I am still looking for a series that fits my tastes. I recently listened to the first three audio books in the Sally Lockhart series by Philip Pullman and I thought they were wonderful. I also loved the Julian Kestrel series by Kate Ross and the Captain Lacey series by Ashley Gardner. If you are a fan of those series or you're willing to recommend something similar in a series that you enjoyed please leave me a comment and let me know what you recommend, thanks so much.
February 21, 2010
I read a review of 'A Most Dangerous Woman' by L.M. Jackson (aka Lee Jackson) several months ago and although I can't recall one word of the review, it said something that caused me to add this to my 'must-read' pile. After a short reading lull, I went to the library and remembered this book and came away wondering what it would be like.
I wasn't disappointed – in short, I really enjoyed this book!
Set in Victorian London, 'A Most Dangerous Woman' tells the story of Sarah Tanner (a woman who has tried to re-invent herself and leave her disreputable past behind) and the journey she takes when a former acquaintance seeks her out and once dismissed, gets murdered.
One of the quirks of the book, besides the era, was the supporting cast. While loveable, they were often of questionable character! I also loved how the main (and often fearless) character was a woman and that it didn’t follow the route of a historical romance or relied on clichés. It was fresh, interesting, engaging and I look forward to reading the sequel.
I wasn't disappointed – in short, I really enjoyed this book!
Set in Victorian London, 'A Most Dangerous Woman' tells the story of Sarah Tanner (a woman who has tried to re-invent herself and leave her disreputable past behind) and the journey she takes when a former acquaintance seeks her out and once dismissed, gets murdered.
One of the quirks of the book, besides the era, was the supporting cast. While loveable, they were often of questionable character! I also loved how the main (and often fearless) character was a woman and that it didn’t follow the route of a historical romance or relied on clichés. It was fresh, interesting, engaging and I look forward to reading the sequel.
February 17, 2013
This is an interesting book set in early Victorian England with Sarah Tanner's determined personality seemingly somewhat at odds with the women of the day. As an audiobook, it became sometimes a little tricky to follow the people and their roles in the story, but was nonetheless enjoyable.
I will listen to the second in the series with the intention to listen over a few days rather than over a couple of weeks.
I will listen to the second in the series with the intention to listen over a few days rather than over a couple of weeks.
January 9, 2017
I probably would have enjoyed this book a lot more if the author had not referred to every single character by their first and last name constantly. It was extremely distracting to the point where I was annoyed. Why would you write like that?
I also wasn't a fan of the rather convoluted plot. I felt like there were so many blind corners that I lost track of who had done what.
I also wasn't a fan of the rather convoluted plot. I felt like there were so many blind corners that I lost track of who had done what.
June 29, 2013
this book was just... boring. the characters weren't very interesting and the mystery was kind of confusing to me. she didn't seem to sleuth so much as just accuse everyone she came across. o.O I dunno. it wasn't bad and it wasn't good. it was just... ehhh.
September 1, 2009
Hmmm, liked it, but it dragged on a bit. Almost tried to do too much with the story. But I'll read the others.
September 17, 2012
A gripping Victorian murder mystery with a convincing central character. I liked the pace of the book and the period detail and will look out for more Sarah Tanner books.
July 12, 2015
Set in London during the 19th century, a respectable Sarah Tanner unravels a murder (or two) while her shady past catches up with her!
June 26, 2016
Very good victorian detective novel. Very atomospheric. Will try to read more from this author.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews