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Victorian Mystery #2
A Mortal Likeness
When a child goes missing, it's up to Sarah Bain and her ragtag team of investigators to capture the culprit before the moment slips them by in the newest engrossing Victorian mystery from Laura Joh Rowland.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 9, 2018
99 people are currently reading
1588 people want to read
About the author
Laura Joh Rowland
49 books1,292 followersGranddaughter of Chinese and Korean immigrants, Laura Joh Rowland grew up in Michigan and where she graduated with a B.S. in microbiology and a Master of Public Health at the University of Michigan. She currently lives in New Orleans with her husband. She has worked as a chemist, microbiologist, sanitary inspector and quality engineer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
November 16, 2018
The eye of the camera doesn't lie.
Sarah Bain lifts that camera gently into position. She and her detective partner, Lord Hugh Staunton, have been hired to photograph an unsuspecting couple near the Crystal Palace in London. The gentleman's jilted wife needs proof of his waywardness. A quick snap taken of the saucy redhead leaning seductively towards him is quite the catch. But later, Sarah's developed photo reveals a man in the background who greatly resembles her own father who has been missing for ten years. How can this be?
The tension is heightened when the amorous couple is found dead in the bushes shortly thereafter. Immediately, Sarah and Hugh are arrested on suspicion of double murder. Inspector Reid has no soft spot in his heart for this detective duo since their first run-in with him in the previous book, The Ripper's Shadow. (A Mortal Likeness reads as a standalone and the characters are well-described.) Both Sarah and Hugh are released when a groundskeeper states that they left the park much earlier.
Things get kicked up another notch when Sir Gerald Mariner's baby son is kidnapped. He hires the dynamic duo to find the kidnapper as he suspects all those living in his own household, including his adult son and daughter. Sarah, Hugh, and young Mick, their sidekick, must be confined to the mansion until the kidnapper is made known. And this will not be a simple case for them.
Although I have not read the first book in this series, A Mortal Likeness begins with ease and continues so throughout the rest of the book. Laura Joh Rowland creates multiple threads in this storyline that continuously shine a Victorian lantern into many dark corners. Rowland purposefully casts and re-casts doubt upon varying individuals until the end. You're not so sure until you're absolutely sure, and then, surely, you're not.
A fast, entertaining read wrapped in the Victorian era. I would certainly be open to high expectations for Victorian Mystery #3.
My thanks to Crooked Lane Books for providing me with an advanced copy and to Laura Joh Rowland for the opportunity.
Sarah Bain lifts that camera gently into position. She and her detective partner, Lord Hugh Staunton, have been hired to photograph an unsuspecting couple near the Crystal Palace in London. The gentleman's jilted wife needs proof of his waywardness. A quick snap taken of the saucy redhead leaning seductively towards him is quite the catch. But later, Sarah's developed photo reveals a man in the background who greatly resembles her own father who has been missing for ten years. How can this be?
The tension is heightened when the amorous couple is found dead in the bushes shortly thereafter. Immediately, Sarah and Hugh are arrested on suspicion of double murder. Inspector Reid has no soft spot in his heart for this detective duo since their first run-in with him in the previous book, The Ripper's Shadow. (A Mortal Likeness reads as a standalone and the characters are well-described.) Both Sarah and Hugh are released when a groundskeeper states that they left the park much earlier.
Things get kicked up another notch when Sir Gerald Mariner's baby son is kidnapped. He hires the dynamic duo to find the kidnapper as he suspects all those living in his own household, including his adult son and daughter. Sarah, Hugh, and young Mick, their sidekick, must be confined to the mansion until the kidnapper is made known. And this will not be a simple case for them.
Although I have not read the first book in this series, A Mortal Likeness begins with ease and continues so throughout the rest of the book. Laura Joh Rowland creates multiple threads in this storyline that continuously shine a Victorian lantern into many dark corners. Rowland purposefully casts and re-casts doubt upon varying individuals until the end. You're not so sure until you're absolutely sure, and then, surely, you're not.
A fast, entertaining read wrapped in the Victorian era. I would certainly be open to high expectations for Victorian Mystery #3.
My thanks to Crooked Lane Books for providing me with an advanced copy and to Laura Joh Rowland for the opportunity.
February 11, 2019
I’ve never read a Victorian mystery before so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. But this intriguing story pulled me in right from the start. There were so many different diversions that I wasn’t quite sure which one I wanted resolved first. Where was missing baby Robin? What exactly were Hugh and Sarah’s past criminal activities? Who murdered Noel Vaughn and his mistress? What is the story behind the disappearance of Benjamin Bain? The author manages to successfully weave these multiple questions and cases into one smooth and seamless storyline.
Possible motives are put forth for each suspect, but new developments throw the harsh glare of suspicion back and forth. Just who has done it and why? Through trial and error, persistence and determination, the private investigators soldier on in their dogged pursuit of the truth.
There were lots of mentions of the previous case/book but it is not necessary to have read it first. I haven’t but I do plan to do so. The rich descriptions of the atmosphere and environment, the diverse characters, and the unique resolution have made this a series I will continue reading.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for the Advanced Reader Copy.
Possible motives are put forth for each suspect, but new developments throw the harsh glare of suspicion back and forth. Just who has done it and why? Through trial and error, persistence and determination, the private investigators soldier on in their dogged pursuit of the truth.
There were lots of mentions of the previous case/book but it is not necessary to have read it first. I haven’t but I do plan to do so. The rich descriptions of the atmosphere and environment, the diverse characters, and the unique resolution have made this a series I will continue reading.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for the Advanced Reader Copy.
December 7, 2017
This was a fast-paced whodunnit full of enough twists to give you whiplash!
It is the second in a series and while it took me awhile to catch up with what has happened, it reads just fine as a stand alone.
You will be questioning each suspect, then believe in their innocence, then will find more reasons to think they’re guilty over and over again! This whodunnit changes directions rapidly, and will give even the best detective readers a run for their money.
This story read a bit like YA, but the storyline and cliffhanger conclusion definitely captivated me so that I’ll be back for more. I would even love to go back and read the first in this series to get to know the characters a bit better.
A very minor complaint is that, while set in Victorian England, the dialogue was pretty modern. I love me some Victorian language and this didn’t feel entirely authentic to the period.
3.5 stars. Recommend to mystery readers!
Thank you to Crooked Lane for a copy of my ARC!
It is the second in a series and while it took me awhile to catch up with what has happened, it reads just fine as a stand alone.
You will be questioning each suspect, then believe in their innocence, then will find more reasons to think they’re guilty over and over again! This whodunnit changes directions rapidly, and will give even the best detective readers a run for their money.
This story read a bit like YA, but the storyline and cliffhanger conclusion definitely captivated me so that I’ll be back for more. I would even love to go back and read the first in this series to get to know the characters a bit better.
A very minor complaint is that, while set in Victorian England, the dialogue was pretty modern. I love me some Victorian language and this didn’t feel entirely authentic to the period.
3.5 stars. Recommend to mystery readers!
Thank you to Crooked Lane for a copy of my ARC!
January 7, 2018
I'm a fan of a well-plotted mystery, although I usually read the ones that take place in contemporary times, this one managed to keep me engaged throughout.
This is a novel that takes place during Victorian times in London. The main character is photographer and private detective Sarah Bain. She and her business partner Hugh have been retained by a wealthy man to investigate the kidnapping of his youngest son.
Sarah and Hugh then embark on the task of investigating the person responsible for the disappearance in a case where every family member and acquaintance is a suspect.
The story is different from the present-times thrillers I usually read because in those times detectives did not have all the resources and tools we have available today to solve crimes, such as DNA screening, fingerprints analysis, technology, and real-time information access.
Therefore, crimes were more challenging to solve and people had to rely more on instinct than hard-data.
Overall, I enjoyed the novel and recommend it to readers of historical fiction and mysteries.
Thanks to the author and the Crooked Lane for providing me with a copy of this publication in exchange for an honest review.
This is a novel that takes place during Victorian times in London. The main character is photographer and private detective Sarah Bain. She and her business partner Hugh have been retained by a wealthy man to investigate the kidnapping of his youngest son.
Sarah and Hugh then embark on the task of investigating the person responsible for the disappearance in a case where every family member and acquaintance is a suspect.
The story is different from the present-times thrillers I usually read because in those times detectives did not have all the resources and tools we have available today to solve crimes, such as DNA screening, fingerprints analysis, technology, and real-time information access.
Therefore, crimes were more challenging to solve and people had to rely more on instinct than hard-data.
Overall, I enjoyed the novel and recommend it to readers of historical fiction and mysteries.
Thanks to the author and the Crooked Lane for providing me with a copy of this publication in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2018
4 Stars.
An Entertaining Mystery Set in Victorian Times.
Sarah Bain is a photographer and a private detective. She and her partner Hugh are hired by a wealthy man to investigate a crime. The kidnapping of a young boy. Tension ramps up when Sarah’s camera reveals more than she bargained for and she must determine what is real and what is not real. Soon her suspect list grows and Sarah and Hugh find themselves in danger, and their anxiety and fear is palpable.
Several side stories occur which left me on the edge of my seat. Sarah’s past comes back to haunt her, which made me scared and worried for her throughout.
“Mortal Likeness” is the second installment in the Victorian Mystery series yet it read like a standalone. All of the characters in this novel felt very real and tangible – it was as if I knew them and felt what they felt (which was incredible considering the time period this book took place in). The novel was fast paced and easy to read. In addition, Laura Joh Rowland did a phenomenal job in intertwining a few different storylines into one. This is the first novel I have read set in Victorian Times and it won’t be my last.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and Laura Joh Rowland for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and Amazon on 2.1.18.
An Entertaining Mystery Set in Victorian Times.
Sarah Bain is a photographer and a private detective. She and her partner Hugh are hired by a wealthy man to investigate a crime. The kidnapping of a young boy. Tension ramps up when Sarah’s camera reveals more than she bargained for and she must determine what is real and what is not real. Soon her suspect list grows and Sarah and Hugh find themselves in danger, and their anxiety and fear is palpable.
Several side stories occur which left me on the edge of my seat. Sarah’s past comes back to haunt her, which made me scared and worried for her throughout.
“Mortal Likeness” is the second installment in the Victorian Mystery series yet it read like a standalone. All of the characters in this novel felt very real and tangible – it was as if I knew them and felt what they felt (which was incredible considering the time period this book took place in). The novel was fast paced and easy to read. In addition, Laura Joh Rowland did a phenomenal job in intertwining a few different storylines into one. This is the first novel I have read set in Victorian Times and it won’t be my last.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and Laura Joh Rowland for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on Goodreads and Amazon on 2.1.18.
December 7, 2017
3.5
A setting in Victorian England and a photographer Sarah Bain who has become a private eye is on her next case since solving the identity of Jack the Ripper (in book #1).
Hired by Sir Gerald Mariner in London to find his infant son, Robin, who is missing and believed to have been kidnapped. Her and her partner Hugh are hot on the trail of suspects possibly involved.
There are a few side stories involving Sarah and some dark secrets from her past come up and haunt her throughout the story. She is also involved in a sweet romance with one of London's top police officers that gets put on hold while she is on the case. As she gets closer to the truth of what happened to baby Robin, she puts herself and her closest friends in harms way. What happened to baby Robin?
This one read like a suspenseful "cozy" mystery (to me). A great who-dunnit with a lot of guessing going on. I enjoyed the mystery and was determined to solve the case, which I didn't! I liked how all the servants and family in the manor were ALL suspects. Told in first person narrative with an unexpected conclusion!
Thanks to Crooked Lane for my ARC copy!
A setting in Victorian England and a photographer Sarah Bain who has become a private eye is on her next case since solving the identity of Jack the Ripper (in book #1).
Hired by Sir Gerald Mariner in London to find his infant son, Robin, who is missing and believed to have been kidnapped. Her and her partner Hugh are hot on the trail of suspects possibly involved.
There are a few side stories involving Sarah and some dark secrets from her past come up and haunt her throughout the story. She is also involved in a sweet romance with one of London's top police officers that gets put on hold while she is on the case. As she gets closer to the truth of what happened to baby Robin, she puts herself and her closest friends in harms way. What happened to baby Robin?
This one read like a suspenseful "cozy" mystery (to me). A great who-dunnit with a lot of guessing going on. I enjoyed the mystery and was determined to solve the case, which I didn't! I liked how all the servants and family in the manor were ALL suspects. Told in first person narrative with an unexpected conclusion!
Thanks to Crooked Lane for my ARC copy!
November 19, 2017
Transported back in time to the latter part of the nineteenth century, I find myself standing on a cobblestone street somewhere in the heart of London. The startling clitter clatter of a horse and buggy pass before me. Kerosene lanterns light up the darkened street. Dampness and an overriding smell of horse manure overwhelm my acute senses. Jack the Ripper's reign of terror had just come to a crashing end. Different time, different world.
This exquisitely, well-written narrative effortlessly, swept me along for the ride of my life. The characters were superbly, well-drawn. Cradled in rapture with their keen personalities, my Kindle warmed to the touch. A willing prisoner of print, relentless swiping ensued. Good fortune had been bestowed upon me for this most enjoyable read, complements of author Laura Joh Rowland. Luck of the draw.
Sarah Bain and Hugh Stanton are partners of a struggling private detective agency (PI). It's springtime, 1889. Business had been unusually slow. They'd been hired by the wife of a man who'd been suspected of secretly cavorting with a mistress. The usual PI work the world over. They furtively followed him which eventually led down the path to the embrace of his secret lover. Whereupon, they strolled arm-in-arm into a park and made themselves scarce by slipping into a dark enclosure. Moments later, hushed moans and groans escaped their place of hiding. Cheaper than a hotel room. Gotcha. Noisily in haste, Hugh had taken a picture of them with a boxy camera. State-of-the-art at the time. Not easily concealed. What he would have given for a smartphone. The lovers had discovered that they were being spied upon. Outraged, obscenities filled the air. The private investigators fled. The Kindle was smokin'.
The following day, quite by accident, passing the same park, Sarah and other bystanders were drawn to a police barricade. She learned the couple that they'd followed last night had been murdered. Right where she'd last seen them. Their sins of adultery could not have warranted such a brutal punishment. Or could it? This savage act of violence catapulted the two detectives into a case that would endure endless twists and turns. The murders in the park were merely the tip of the iceberg. In their pursuit for the truth, they dangered falling victim themselves. In for a dime, in for a dollar. Riddled with anticipation, an unpredictable outcome sat completely hidden in plain sight until the very last moment. Finally, the moment of truth crashed forward with an ending that left me breathless. A grand finale.
This ARC was received from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. My gratitude sent to Crooked Lane books for allowing this pre-release edition made available.
This exquisitely, well-written narrative effortlessly, swept me along for the ride of my life. The characters were superbly, well-drawn. Cradled in rapture with their keen personalities, my Kindle warmed to the touch. A willing prisoner of print, relentless swiping ensued. Good fortune had been bestowed upon me for this most enjoyable read, complements of author Laura Joh Rowland. Luck of the draw.
Sarah Bain and Hugh Stanton are partners of a struggling private detective agency (PI). It's springtime, 1889. Business had been unusually slow. They'd been hired by the wife of a man who'd been suspected of secretly cavorting with a mistress. The usual PI work the world over. They furtively followed him which eventually led down the path to the embrace of his secret lover. Whereupon, they strolled arm-in-arm into a park and made themselves scarce by slipping into a dark enclosure. Moments later, hushed moans and groans escaped their place of hiding. Cheaper than a hotel room. Gotcha. Noisily in haste, Hugh had taken a picture of them with a boxy camera. State-of-the-art at the time. Not easily concealed. What he would have given for a smartphone. The lovers had discovered that they were being spied upon. Outraged, obscenities filled the air. The private investigators fled. The Kindle was smokin'.
The following day, quite by accident, passing the same park, Sarah and other bystanders were drawn to a police barricade. She learned the couple that they'd followed last night had been murdered. Right where she'd last seen them. Their sins of adultery could not have warranted such a brutal punishment. Or could it? This savage act of violence catapulted the two detectives into a case that would endure endless twists and turns. The murders in the park were merely the tip of the iceberg. In their pursuit for the truth, they dangered falling victim themselves. In for a dime, in for a dollar. Riddled with anticipation, an unpredictable outcome sat completely hidden in plain sight until the very last moment. Finally, the moment of truth crashed forward with an ending that left me breathless. A grand finale.
This ARC was received from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. My gratitude sent to Crooked Lane books for allowing this pre-release edition made available.
November 12, 2017
A Mortal Likeness (Victorian Mystery #2) by Laura Joh Rowland is a book set back in the late 1870's and is book two in the series. I didn't read book one, although now I want to read it, I had no problems reading this book without reading book one first. I requested this book and the review is voluntary.
I really like the main characters. They are well developed and certainly not your normal characters. The woman is a woman that has a mind of her own, which is not really liked at that time, and she is not married. She also works as a PI and a photographer. This makes her different for sure. Her partner is a handsome gay man which is certainly not the norm then. He is certainly shunned but they are living together because they are both low on funds. They work together and get along. The characters themselves drew me in.
The mystery turned into two mysteries then more. It was a great read and lots of clues, people, and I kept guessing wrong. I would rethink, and guess wrong again! I am not a good PI. This is an excellent story with a good bunch of characters, many added characters that really make it unique, and the great baffling clues. Loved the many interweaving mysteries and what develops. Great story. Thanks for letting me read this!
I really like the main characters. They are well developed and certainly not your normal characters. The woman is a woman that has a mind of her own, which is not really liked at that time, and she is not married. She also works as a PI and a photographer. This makes her different for sure. Her partner is a handsome gay man which is certainly not the norm then. He is certainly shunned but they are living together because they are both low on funds. They work together and get along. The characters themselves drew me in.
The mystery turned into two mysteries then more. It was a great read and lots of clues, people, and I kept guessing wrong. I would rethink, and guess wrong again! I am not a good PI. This is an excellent story with a good bunch of characters, many added characters that really make it unique, and the great baffling clues. Loved the many interweaving mysteries and what develops. Great story. Thanks for letting me read this!
November 13, 2018
Continuing this series, Laura Joh Rowland takes readers back to Victorian England for more mysteries. Sarah Bain and Lord Hugh Staunton made a name for themselves while working on the Jack the Ripper case, though few know of their successes. They’ve chosen to open a private investigation firm, willing to work for anyone who has the means to pay them. While tailing a philanderer, Sarah and Hugh are able to capture a photo to substantiate their investigative claims. Soon thereafter, the subjects of the investigation turn up dead, with Sarah and Hugh the prime suspects. While dodging that bullet for a time, Sarah seeks to become involved in the kidnapping investigation of little Robin Mariner, baby to Sir Gerald and Lady Alexandra. While many others have sought to get in on the action, Sarah and Sir Gerald strike up some professional connection and she’s hired on the spot. Sir Gerald is certain that the kidnapping is tied to someone in his home, but does not want Sarah and Hugh to tip their hands for the time being. While trying to piece together suspects and motives, Sarah reexamines some of her photos from the philandering case, seeing a man who resembles her father. Sarah tracks down some leads and discovers that her father’s disappearance all those years ago is not entirely as straightforward as she might have liked. While stirring up a hornet’s nest in her personal life, Sarah must work alongside and love struck Hugh to learn if Robin Mariner’s kidnapper can be found, discovering that there was a ransom drop/pick-up that may clear her from the aforementioned double murder. The discovery of a body only thickens the plot and begins a series of events that could have dire results for more than the Mariner household. Will Sarah and Hugh find themselves as saviours to Sir Gerald or vilified for their accusations and sent off to jail? Rowland does well to continue this series, full of great plots and interesting characters. Recommended for those who love mysteries set in Victorian England that have unique twists.
I received an advance copy of the third book in this series, but wanted to get the proper context before delving in too deep. Rowland sets the scene well and pulls the reader in from the opening pages of the first novel, keeping the setting and plot developing throughout. This second novel is just as exciting, set a year or so after the Jack the Ripper goings-on. Sarah Bain remains an interesting character, sure to interest most readers. A photographer by trade, Sarah uses her amateur sleuthing capabilities in this novel, accentuated by grit and determination to get to the answer, no matter what hurdles stand before her. Lord Hugh Staunton, who made his mark in the opening novel, returns and has been dealing with some of the character revelations from the series debut. Hugh has been disowned by his family for his homosexuality and this is a thread that continues in this piece, though his presence is somewhat subdued after a fallout with Sarah over some potential suspects. Some of the secondary characters shape the story effectively, particularly as they propel the mystery of the kidnapped child to its climax. There are many interesting developments that occur using these minor characters, sure to keep the attentive reader enthralled. As in the opening novel, I liked the banter between the authorities and the amateur sleuths, which turns into a competition for Sarah throughout. Overall, the story worked well and kept my attention through to the final sentence. Rowland has created an interesting series that mixes history with key elements of a decent mystery. I will keep reading and hope to add Laura Joh Rowland to my list of authors to follow.
Kudos, Madam Rowland, for an interesting series continuation. I can see much coming from this series as the characters come into their own.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I received an advance copy of the third book in this series, but wanted to get the proper context before delving in too deep. Rowland sets the scene well and pulls the reader in from the opening pages of the first novel, keeping the setting and plot developing throughout. This second novel is just as exciting, set a year or so after the Jack the Ripper goings-on. Sarah Bain remains an interesting character, sure to interest most readers. A photographer by trade, Sarah uses her amateur sleuthing capabilities in this novel, accentuated by grit and determination to get to the answer, no matter what hurdles stand before her. Lord Hugh Staunton, who made his mark in the opening novel, returns and has been dealing with some of the character revelations from the series debut. Hugh has been disowned by his family for his homosexuality and this is a thread that continues in this piece, though his presence is somewhat subdued after a fallout with Sarah over some potential suspects. Some of the secondary characters shape the story effectively, particularly as they propel the mystery of the kidnapped child to its climax. There are many interesting developments that occur using these minor characters, sure to keep the attentive reader enthralled. As in the opening novel, I liked the banter between the authorities and the amateur sleuths, which turns into a competition for Sarah throughout. Overall, the story worked well and kept my attention through to the final sentence. Rowland has created an interesting series that mixes history with key elements of a decent mystery. I will keep reading and hope to add Laura Joh Rowland to my list of authors to follow.
Kudos, Madam Rowland, for an interesting series continuation. I can see much coming from this series as the characters come into their own.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
February 20, 2018
A Mortal Likeness is the second book in the Victorian Mystery series. I have not yet read the first book, The Ripper's Shadow, but was easily able to follow the plot and characters in this story. So, it isn't necessary to have read the first book to enjoy this newest book in this series. There are references to the first book, however. I very much enjoyed this book, so I'm going to backtrack and read The Ripper's Shadow.
Sarah Bain is a photographer and a detective. Sarah is hired by Sir Gerald Mariner to find his infant son, Robin. Sir Gerald says the boy has been kidnapped, but the case turns out to be much more complex than a child abduction. As Sarah and her partner investigate the baby's disappearance, some secrets from Sarah's past complicate things. The story moves at a nice pace and builds suspense. Some nice twists and turns definitely kept my interest for the entire story. There is also some character development for Sarah in this newest book, along with a bit of romantic tension as well.
The cover art is excellent! The cover is what first got my attention and made me want to read this book. :)
I'm going to read The Ripper's Shadow now! I like the characters in this series, and can't wait to read the next book!
Sarah Joh Rowland is also the author of the Secret Adventures of Charlotte Bronte series and the Sano Ichiro series.
**I voluntarily read an advance readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Sarah Bain is a photographer and a detective. Sarah is hired by Sir Gerald Mariner to find his infant son, Robin. Sir Gerald says the boy has been kidnapped, but the case turns out to be much more complex than a child abduction. As Sarah and her partner investigate the baby's disappearance, some secrets from Sarah's past complicate things. The story moves at a nice pace and builds suspense. Some nice twists and turns definitely kept my interest for the entire story. There is also some character development for Sarah in this newest book, along with a bit of romantic tension as well.
The cover art is excellent! The cover is what first got my attention and made me want to read this book. :)
I'm going to read The Ripper's Shadow now! I like the characters in this series, and can't wait to read the next book!
Sarah Joh Rowland is also the author of the Secret Adventures of Charlotte Bronte series and the Sano Ichiro series.
**I voluntarily read an advance readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
December 31, 2017
This is a real treat for lovers of historical fiction. A MORTAL LIKENESS sees the return of Sarah Bain, Lord Hugh Staunton, and Mick O'Reilly. Sarah and Hugh run a private detective agency... mainly because they are unsuitable for any other type of employment and they solved a major previous murder case.
The author has done a fine job of combining two different stories. It's when they dovetail that things get really dangerous.
Sir Gerald Mariner hires Sarah and Hugh to find his kidnapped infant son. Sarah feels that something is not quite right. Finding a picture of the baby, she notices that it looks a lot like the practice of posing deceased children to look as though they are still alive. Is the baby really missing? Kidnapped? Or something much, much worse?
During an unrelated surveillance, Sarah notices a man in the background of a photo she took. He greatly resembles her father, who went missing over 20 years ago after he became a suspect in a murder.
Sarah must uncover the truth about Robin’s kidnapping, and her own family, before her past catches up to her.
Although this is a follow-up to THE RIPPER'S SHADOW, it does well as a stand alone. There are several mentions of their first case, so I would highly recommend reading these in order.
The characters are outstanding and I love how they interact with each other ... with love and caring ... and sometimes frustration and worry. The suspense is palpable in places and I found it impossible to put the book down. I don't read a lot of historical fiction, so I found the descriptions of life in 1889 much enjoyable. I loved how they carry their cameras in boxes... my imagination was running on overdrive.
Many, many thanks to the author and Crooked Lane Books for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
The author has done a fine job of combining two different stories. It's when they dovetail that things get really dangerous.
Sir Gerald Mariner hires Sarah and Hugh to find his kidnapped infant son. Sarah feels that something is not quite right. Finding a picture of the baby, she notices that it looks a lot like the practice of posing deceased children to look as though they are still alive. Is the baby really missing? Kidnapped? Or something much, much worse?
During an unrelated surveillance, Sarah notices a man in the background of a photo she took. He greatly resembles her father, who went missing over 20 years ago after he became a suspect in a murder.
Sarah must uncover the truth about Robin’s kidnapping, and her own family, before her past catches up to her.
Although this is a follow-up to THE RIPPER'S SHADOW, it does well as a stand alone. There are several mentions of their first case, so I would highly recommend reading these in order.
The characters are outstanding and I love how they interact with each other ... with love and caring ... and sometimes frustration and worry. The suspense is palpable in places and I found it impossible to put the book down. I don't read a lot of historical fiction, so I found the descriptions of life in 1889 much enjoyable. I loved how they carry their cameras in boxes... my imagination was running on overdrive.
Many, many thanks to the author and Crooked Lane Books for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
December 21, 2017
This historical mystery is exactly what I like; set in Victorian London with a strong female lead and supporting characters I would love to have as friends.
Sarah Bain and her friend Lord Hugh Staunton have opened their own detective agency. The difficulty is that they're running out of money and need some wealthy clients to pay the rent. So far it's been lost items and cheating spouses, none of it very lucrative. Things change when they become mixed up in the kidnapping of Robin Mariner, the infant son of Sir Gerald Mariner, a wealthy banker who is offering a 5000 pound reward for information that leads to his son's return. There's plenty of action here; people drop dead throughout and a side mystery, involving Sarah's father, as well as a bit of romance means there's never a dull moment.
This the second book in the series, and although I haven't read the first book I had no problem jumping right in and making sense of the various relationships. The mystery is good, but it's the characterizations that set this one apart. They run the gamut from the good to the psychopathic and it isn't always possible to tell which is which.
Entertaining and well worth a read. Now I must go back and read the first book.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
Sarah Bain and her friend Lord Hugh Staunton have opened their own detective agency. The difficulty is that they're running out of money and need some wealthy clients to pay the rent. So far it's been lost items and cheating spouses, none of it very lucrative. Things change when they become mixed up in the kidnapping of Robin Mariner, the infant son of Sir Gerald Mariner, a wealthy banker who is offering a 5000 pound reward for information that leads to his son's return. There's plenty of action here; people drop dead throughout and a side mystery, involving Sarah's father, as well as a bit of romance means there's never a dull moment.
This the second book in the series, and although I haven't read the first book I had no problem jumping right in and making sense of the various relationships. The mystery is good, but it's the characterizations that set this one apart. They run the gamut from the good to the psychopathic and it isn't always possible to tell which is which.
Entertaining and well worth a read. Now I must go back and read the first book.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
October 20, 2018
not for me
September 23, 2018
A Mortal Likeness is the second book in the Victorian Mystery series by Laura Joh Rowland. Our protagonist, Sarah Bain, is a photographer in Whitechapel, London. She is also a private detective. Along with her friend, Lord Hugh Staunton, a disgraced nobleman, she is hired by a jilted wife to find evidence of an affair.
While tailing the wayward husband, Sarah and Hugh find themselves in the Crystal Palace. Seizing an opportunity to catch the man and his mistress in several incriminating moments, Sarah snaps several photos. However, the man realizes what they are about and chases them off. Later, when Sarah is developing the photos, she notices that there is more to the scene than she first thought.
The following day, Sarah and Hugh discover that at approximately the same time that they were at the Crystal Palace, there was a botched ransom exchange for a young child who has been missing for several weeks. They realize that there was a man in Sarah’s photograph that may be a potential witness. They contact Sir Gerald Mariner, the child’s father, who hires them to investigate the kidnapping and insists that they move into his home while conducting their investigation.
Once in Sir Gerald’s home, Sarah and Hugh realize that there is no shortage of suspects beginning with his own family – his trophy wife (the child’s mother), her sister, and his 2 adult children –as well as his secretary, his wife’s entourage and the servants. There is a lot of misdirection which has you questioning the innocence of everyone involved.
This is a fast-paced, interesting mystery that keeps the reader guessing.
Rating: 3.5 stars
While tailing the wayward husband, Sarah and Hugh find themselves in the Crystal Palace. Seizing an opportunity to catch the man and his mistress in several incriminating moments, Sarah snaps several photos. However, the man realizes what they are about and chases them off. Later, when Sarah is developing the photos, she notices that there is more to the scene than she first thought.
The following day, Sarah and Hugh discover that at approximately the same time that they were at the Crystal Palace, there was a botched ransom exchange for a young child who has been missing for several weeks. They realize that there was a man in Sarah’s photograph that may be a potential witness. They contact Sir Gerald Mariner, the child’s father, who hires them to investigate the kidnapping and insists that they move into his home while conducting their investigation.
Once in Sir Gerald’s home, Sarah and Hugh realize that there is no shortage of suspects beginning with his own family – his trophy wife (the child’s mother), her sister, and his 2 adult children –as well as his secretary, his wife’s entourage and the servants. There is a lot of misdirection which has you questioning the innocence of everyone involved.
This is a fast-paced, interesting mystery that keeps the reader guessing.
Rating: 3.5 stars
January 8, 2018
Gripping!
Unlikely compatriots and fellow private detectives Sarah Bain and Lord Hugh Staunton, are thrown into, well are lured into really, the case of a kidnapped young child, Robin Mariner. The beloved son of wealthy banker and hard nosed businessman Sir Gerald Mariner, a friend to those in high places, has gone missing. Sir Gerald hires them with a retainer they cannot resist. He insists on a confidentiality clause which puts Sarah immediately at odds with her beau, Police Constable Thomas Barrett and Inspector Reid. After the Ripper debacle, Reid is harbouring a deep grudge against both Sarah and Hugh. He figuratively froths at the mouth whenever he lays eyes on them. And that's a lot of frothing with this latest case!
The thing is Sarah and Hugh are also seen in an area where they should not have been, so suspicion for a double murder falls on them.
Tied up in all this is Sarah's painstaking search for the father she'd grown up believing was dead. As she slowly inches forward with that so personal and painful endeavour, more information comes to light that strikes a blow to her heart and her faith in the type of man she believed her father to be.
There's coil within coil that unwinds like a striking snake. In the case of the missing Robin. Who is to be believed, who is to be trusted? What of the family members and associates, the servants and trusted companions? How many cards are in the deck and where do Sir Gerald's loyalties lie?
In turns, the story is both complex and harrowing as the search for Robin continues and close friendships are stretched to breaking point.
The underlining perceptions of Victorian England, attitudes and fears are highlighted through the main characters who just don't fit in--Sarah, Hugh and Mick, and through the machinations of Sir Gerald, the government and their representatives.
Rowland's portrayals of the places and people of these times are magnificent.
A NetGalley ARC
Unlikely compatriots and fellow private detectives Sarah Bain and Lord Hugh Staunton, are thrown into, well are lured into really, the case of a kidnapped young child, Robin Mariner. The beloved son of wealthy banker and hard nosed businessman Sir Gerald Mariner, a friend to those in high places, has gone missing. Sir Gerald hires them with a retainer they cannot resist. He insists on a confidentiality clause which puts Sarah immediately at odds with her beau, Police Constable Thomas Barrett and Inspector Reid. After the Ripper debacle, Reid is harbouring a deep grudge against both Sarah and Hugh. He figuratively froths at the mouth whenever he lays eyes on them. And that's a lot of frothing with this latest case!
The thing is Sarah and Hugh are also seen in an area where they should not have been, so suspicion for a double murder falls on them.
Tied up in all this is Sarah's painstaking search for the father she'd grown up believing was dead. As she slowly inches forward with that so personal and painful endeavour, more information comes to light that strikes a blow to her heart and her faith in the type of man she believed her father to be.
There's coil within coil that unwinds like a striking snake. In the case of the missing Robin. Who is to be believed, who is to be trusted? What of the family members and associates, the servants and trusted companions? How many cards are in the deck and where do Sir Gerald's loyalties lie?
In turns, the story is both complex and harrowing as the search for Robin continues and close friendships are stretched to breaking point.
The underlining perceptions of Victorian England, attitudes and fears are highlighted through the main characters who just don't fit in--Sarah, Hugh and Mick, and through the machinations of Sir Gerald, the government and their representatives.
Rowland's portrayals of the places and people of these times are magnificent.
A NetGalley ARC
June 9, 2018
This book was off the beaten path of preferred mystery writing styles that I sometimes wander from but unfortunately not for the better.
If you want a book that is essentially terrific at illustrating how a typical person like I would approach a mystery we decided to try to solve, this is it. Maybe that is what the title meant.
All the heroine's progress was trial and error, she was highly emotional about personal and profession matters, and the smartest person in the book seems to be the street smart kid.
If you want a book that is essentially terrific at illustrating how a typical person like I would approach a mystery we decided to try to solve, this is it. Maybe that is what the title meant.
All the heroine's progress was trial and error, she was highly emotional about personal and profession matters, and the smartest person in the book seems to be the street smart kid.
February 10, 2018
Upfront, I couldn't finish this. I was thoroughly put off by the inappropriate sexual encounters of the main characters. This is supposed to be a mystery set in Victorian times! I don't believe most people of the time acted in this manner-homosexual affairs, promiscuous relationships. I know this is not what I'm looking to read about with a historical mysyery.
April 25, 2018
Seemed to have tons of highly improbable (and somewhat ridiculous) situations. Very hard to read; like it was written for 5th graders.
January 18, 2021
I never expected to enjoy reading mysteries but the author does a good job developing characters and a relationship between them that you care about. Looking forward to the next one.
January 9, 2018
This lively yarn embraces the private lives of a small troupe of amateur detectives to offer an unexpected bite of 19th century reality from a courageous slice of perseverance. Combining the limited knowledge they possess they attempt to unravel the knots in a very long string of challenges, while trying not to upset the delicate balance of social hierarchy and propriety.
It’s a personally punishing time for each of them for very different reasons and yet they perform to the best of their ability (or should I say notoriety!) throughout. It has great things in its favour. But I particularly liked how the contrasting characters placed emphasis on resilience rather than experience and frequently disregard their safety regardless of the consequences.
It includes all the elements demanded of a historic crime mystery: a robust plot, an intriguing application of technology of the period, and fresh theories dismissed at the drop of a bonnet. I was constantly wondering whether this case would be their salvation or merely be another nail in the coffin of their existing hardships.
If you haven’t read book 1, as I hadn’t, don’t let this deter you as it certainly won’t hinder your enjoyment of ‘A Mortal Likeness’ – I found myself very pleasantly surprised by how quickly I was turning the pages, a cliché but true.
(I received an advanced copy of this novel from the publisher with my thanks, which I volunteered to read and review.)
It’s a personally punishing time for each of them for very different reasons and yet they perform to the best of their ability (or should I say notoriety!) throughout. It has great things in its favour. But I particularly liked how the contrasting characters placed emphasis on resilience rather than experience and frequently disregard their safety regardless of the consequences.
It includes all the elements demanded of a historic crime mystery: a robust plot, an intriguing application of technology of the period, and fresh theories dismissed at the drop of a bonnet. I was constantly wondering whether this case would be their salvation or merely be another nail in the coffin of their existing hardships.
If you haven’t read book 1, as I hadn’t, don’t let this deter you as it certainly won’t hinder your enjoyment of ‘A Mortal Likeness’ – I found myself very pleasantly surprised by how quickly I was turning the pages, a cliché but true.
(I received an advanced copy of this novel from the publisher with my thanks, which I volunteered to read and review.)
March 9, 2019
Once I got past the 10 times it seemed our heroine felt it necessary to tell us how she (Sarah Bain) and her partner Hugh and solved the Jack the Ripper mystery and the problem that she is 33 and her father disappeared when she was 10 and it was 24 years ago (something else she says several times in this first person book) it picked up and got interesting. A baby or toddler boy ( I swear it said baby in the beginning but then he's 18 months old) has been kidnapped and she and Hugh get hired by the father to find him and the kidnappers. But as Sarah herself says at the end "I see that we didn't exactly solve the kidnapping case; it's more that our mistakes paved the path to the solution." Her incompetence reminds me of Stephanie Plum in Evanovich's novels but Stephanie is amusing and never expects to be good or continues to brag about being successful previously.
Also the love interest is handled a bit clumsily and I cannot figure out any reason why she had to lie to him (police officer) or his superior about having been in the park the day before. She could have said she was there and just said she was taking photos and the light was bad so she came back to try again. Still not the truth but worse than saying she wasn't there at all.
There was enough to keep me reading the book but I finished it not wanting to read any sequel there might be.
Also the love interest is handled a bit clumsily and I cannot figure out any reason why she had to lie to him (police officer) or his superior about having been in the park the day before. She could have said she was there and just said she was taking photos and the light was bad so she came back to try again. Still not the truth but worse than saying she wasn't there at all.
There was enough to keep me reading the book but I finished it not wanting to read any sequel there might be.
November 6, 2025
RATING: 4 STARS
2018; Crooked Lane Books
Sarah Bain and her crew are back and are now running a detective agency. After solving the Ripper case, Sarah can go back to her studio. Since they cannot take credit for the Ripper or that it was even solved, they don't have any experience to back up their new venture. Sir Gerald Marine posts a generous reward for his kidnapped son to be found so the crew jumps at the chance to get the job. When Sir Gerald hires them, it is the only the start of their trouble.
I always worry after loving the first book in the series, if it will continue to have that magic...and this one did! The gang has a even tighter chemistry and banter now that they have been with one another for a bit. I love the way Fitzmorris fits in the series and keeps the trio calm and take care of them. Sarah and Constable Barrett are the cutest thing ever. Of course he does not like her getting involved in the dangerous cases, but does see that she is smart and capable. It will be interesting to see where they go.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
2018; Crooked Lane Books
Sarah Bain and her crew are back and are now running a detective agency. After solving the Ripper case, Sarah can go back to her studio. Since they cannot take credit for the Ripper or that it was even solved, they don't have any experience to back up their new venture. Sir Gerald Marine posts a generous reward for his kidnapped son to be found so the crew jumps at the chance to get the job. When Sir Gerald hires them, it is the only the start of their trouble.
I always worry after loving the first book in the series, if it will continue to have that magic...and this one did! The gang has a even tighter chemistry and banter now that they have been with one another for a bit. I love the way Fitzmorris fits in the series and keeps the trio calm and take care of them. Sarah and Constable Barrett are the cutest thing ever. Of course he does not like her getting involved in the dangerous cases, but does see that she is smart and capable. It will be interesting to see where they go.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
January 6, 2019
Stupid, weak willed characters and an even worse murder case that gets too long winded. How in the heck did Sarah even solved Jack The Ripper case??? As a main character, she is pathetic beyond belief!
February 26, 2020
I'm not sure why anybody would hire this duo as "detectives."
Sarah & Hugh: "We know who did it! We accuse ______ (fill in the blank)!"
(Moments later). "Nope, we're wrong. On to the next suspect...."
Sarah & Hugh: "We know who did it! We accuse ______ (fill in the blank)!"
(Moments later). "Nope, we're wrong. On to the next suspect...."
January 17, 2018
A Mortal Likeness - simply - silly.
June 20, 2019
Thank you, Netgalley, for this arc. I am loving these books and I can't wait to read the next one!
January 9, 2018
The second book in the Victorian Mystery series featuring photographer Sarah Bain and her titled friend, Lord Hugh Staunton. The two have formed a detective agency after their success in The Shadow of the Ripper. Sarah was evicted from the premises of her studio as a direct result of that first case; Hugh was disowned by his family after they discovered his homosexuality. Sarah and Hugh not only work but also live together, along with Hugh's manservant and a street urchin, Mick, who assisted them on the Ripper case. Business is slow, and their resources are low when they are hired to investigate the kidnapping of Robin Mariner, the young son of Sir Gerald Mariner. Sir Gerald is an immensely wealthy and powerful London banker. He suspects a family member and insists that Hugh and Sarah move into his home to investigate. He also requires them to sign a non-disclosure agreement, causing problems with Sarah's lover, Constable Barrett. The Mariner family is a motley crew, all of whom may have reason to be jealous of Robin. There is also a secondary mystery, that of Sarah's father who disappeared years ago.
A Mortal Likeness has all the elements of historical mysteries that I look for and usually like. It has a female amateur sleuth, excellent historical detail, a well-plotted story, and lots of action. However, I found that I could not connect with either Sarah or Hugh. Both are driven by their emotions and those same emotions do little but hamper the investigation. It becomes a sort of "throw it against the wall and see what sticks" exercise. Plus, both Hugh and Sarah indulge in dangerous and ill-considered behavior throughout the book. I waffled about what rating to give A Mortal Likeness and settled on 2.5 stars rounded up to 3. I am interested enough in the secondary mystery to read the next book to find out what happened to Sarah's father, and what an ongoing relationship with Sir Gerald might bring.
Thanks to Crooked Lane and NetGalley for an advanced digital copy. The opinions are my own.
RATING- 3 Stars
A Mortal Likeness has all the elements of historical mysteries that I look for and usually like. It has a female amateur sleuth, excellent historical detail, a well-plotted story, and lots of action. However, I found that I could not connect with either Sarah or Hugh. Both are driven by their emotions and those same emotions do little but hamper the investigation. It becomes a sort of "throw it against the wall and see what sticks" exercise. Plus, both Hugh and Sarah indulge in dangerous and ill-considered behavior throughout the book. I waffled about what rating to give A Mortal Likeness and settled on 2.5 stars rounded up to 3. I am interested enough in the secondary mystery to read the next book to find out what happened to Sarah's father, and what an ongoing relationship with Sir Gerald might bring.
Thanks to Crooked Lane and NetGalley for an advanced digital copy. The opinions are my own.
RATING- 3 Stars
May 29, 2021
The mystery is narrated in the first person by the protagonist, Sarah Bain, who finally admits, “… our mistakes paved the path to the solution.” Not exactly a Holmesian conclusion. After Sarah makes a series of dreadful decisions and suspects/accuses virtually every other character in the story, someone finally lets her and her posse know who actually committed some – but not all – of the crimes. Several of the crimes seem to have been overlooked in the passage of time, unless I somehow missed that bit and there was yet another person present at that apparently overpopulated scene. I feel about this rather the same way I feel about a pet animal that is abandoned by the death of their owner and then overlooked at the conclusion of a story. Aspiring authors, beware!
I’ve enjoyed a lot of Ms. Rowland’s novels, and particularly liked the first three or four of her Edo period Japanese stories featuring Sano Ichiro. I keep meaning to pick up the rest of them – it’s a long series – but the TBR pile keeps growing. I did enjoy the first in this Victorian mystery series, particularly as Sarah was portrayed as a strong, independent and resourceful woman, but in this one I grew tired of her … well, snivelling. Also of her leaping to assume responsibility for every bad thing that happens – it’s not all about you, Sarah! Also, there are now a few men in her life that I would have kicked to the curb, but she seems to be a glutton for punishment.
Let’s hope she toughens up in the next one.
I’ve enjoyed a lot of Ms. Rowland’s novels, and particularly liked the first three or four of her Edo period Japanese stories featuring Sano Ichiro. I keep meaning to pick up the rest of them – it’s a long series – but the TBR pile keeps growing. I did enjoy the first in this Victorian mystery series, particularly as Sarah was portrayed as a strong, independent and resourceful woman, but in this one I grew tired of her … well, snivelling. Also of her leaping to assume responsibility for every bad thing that happens – it’s not all about you, Sarah! Also, there are now a few men in her life that I would have kicked to the curb, but she seems to be a glutton for punishment.
Let’s hope she toughens up in the next one.
February 10, 2020
This is a twisty second installment to the Victorian Mystery series, and whenever I had to put it down, I always remembered exactly who was who and what was happening in the story. Sarah Bain and her friend Hugh have launched a private detective agency, and due to being at the wrong place at the wrong time, they are hired to investigate a famous kidnapping case. A baby, Robin, about 20 months old, has been kidnapped from his crib during the night, and his father hires Sarah, Hugh, and street urchin Mick to live in his home and investigate his family. The family's dark secrets come out over the course of the story, and Sarah also learns more about her own father than she did before. Sarah's romance with P.C. Barrett continues, and Hugh meets the love of his life. After many false starts, the kidnapping is solved. This is an engaging and fun series. Looking forward to the next.
February 12, 2018
Beautifully written. I'd give it ten stars if I could. I can't wait to read more from this series.
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