An Urchin of Means

Baker Street #1

by April White

Ringo Devereux knows far too much for a man of his times. There’s no simple explanation for it that doesn’t involve improbable conversations about the future, and Ringo’s advanced understanding of three-phase generators and the secret histories of his city are not things he can discuss with the Victorian Londoners around him. Even his origins as an orphaned street thief are far too dangerous for a young gentleman of means to reveal.
An encounter with a ten-year-old pickpocket, and a luncheon with Oscar Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle draw Ringo back into the shadows of his criminal past. A stolen gemstone, a suspicious pawnbroker, and a damning bundle of letters are mysteries that require Ringo’s thief’s instincts, his obscure facts, and the help of a little girl with the skills of deduction like his.
But are these crimes as random as they first appear? What do a covert affair and a blue carbuncle have in common? Ringo knows too much, but someone knows more, and the identity of a mysterious red-haired woman is perhaps the most diabolically complicated plot of them all.

Genres: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Young Adult, Historical, Mystery, Fiction, Crime

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 12, 2018

About the author

APRIL WHITE has been a film producer, private investigator, bouncer, teacher and screenwriter. She has climbed in the Himalayas, survived a shipwreck, and lived on a gold mine in the Yukon. She and her husband share their home in Southern California with two extraordinary boys and a lifetime collection of books.

Her first novel, Marking Time is the 2016 winner of the Library Journal Indie E-Book Award for YA Literature, and all five books in the Immortal Descendants series are on the Amazon Top 100 lists in Time Travel Romance and Historical Fantasy. Code of Conduct is an RWA Vivian Award finalist for romantic suspense, a Next Generation Award finalist for romance, and RONE Award finalist for suspense. And Death's Door is a Grand Prize winner of the Next Generation Award, and a Foreword Reviews Award finalist. More information and her blog can be found at www.aprilwhitebooks.com.

Reviews

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 When It is Everything You Wanted Stars
* * * * * Spoiler Free
There are some series and books you will always remember... they took you to a place, opened your eyes and just were the best. They were so good...You wanted everyone to have the amazing experience you had so you told all of your friends, the stranger in the grocery line... anyone you had contact with...

Well, that is how I feel about the Writings of April White. This author has taken a Romance/Mystery/Thriller Reader and made her in love with this genre she writes...It has all the charm of the Potter series, For Me. It has the elements of fantasy with a whole unique set of abilities from the beginning of time...and the mixture of actual Historical Events and the characters we meet and learn of capture our hearts from the first page.

In other words - This Friggin' Rocks!

Now in this first entry of the Baker Street Series, Ms. White has allowed us to be with Ringo and his wife Charlie, living back in their appropriate time in London. We first met these delightful, strong and wonderful people in the series The Immortal Decedents. What is perfect with this book, though, is you can start here if you want... there is enough information for you to understand all the particulars to jump right in and fall hard for this couple.

Because this couple is something that will make your heart ache. They have respect and adoration for each other to the point you feel it off the page. Not sappy or cheesy, more of a feeling of understanding what they have and how hard they worked to be together. It is their constant appreciation of what they went through, who they are and their choices to do good where they can.

They also have the added benefit of knowing what the future brings...and that is a quandary... because the knowledge and they doing anything to change the course of events could disrupt Everything....

We have the unique backdrop of Ringo's past meeting of Oscar Wilde during another time. With Ringo's knowledge, he is aware of the talents and life of Wilde. We have Ringo meeting with Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle. It is during this encounter everything starts...All of Ringo's past street talents are shown... his observation skills to the point of being able to tell someone when he had soup and where he was residing. This piques Arthur Conan Doyle's interest. He becomes fascinated with Ringo's talents and a bond is struck.

There is so much more than what the blurb has described so well of this tale.... We are able to glean what life was like "Back in the Day" and the hardships the haves and have nots had to endure. Times may be vastly different but some things remain the same... and it is the way everything is woven into this tale that makes us stop for a moment and think...

This tale is only the beginning and Ms. White writes in her acknowledgements her love of the Sherlock Holmes books and expresses her hope fans of these classics will understand her affection.

I have to say I was so engrossed with the reading and all of the intrigue and heart put forth.... I was finished before I knew it. I Wanted More and I Wanted It Now.

I know there are to be two more books coming and in the mean time... I will be obnoxious hyping this book as well as The Immortal Decedents Series...because ya know...When you love something... you just cannot stop.

Now who do I have to talk to to make this stuff a Movie, hmmmm

Although it is not necessary, if you are interested in start of Ringo and Charlie, you can learn about them and The Immortal Decedents in Marking Time and it is FREE!

Marking Time (The Immortal Descendants, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Tempting Fate (The Immortal Descendants #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Changing Nature (The Immortal Descendants #3)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Waging War (The Immortal Descendants #4)
Cheating Death (The Immortal Descendants #5)
~~~~~ Before Reading ~~~~~
What do we actually know...
We think we have figured out how "This World Works"....
But then again...
What if there were other factors at play...

What if there were Those...
Who knew more of "Other Times"....
And it was their "Special Knowledge" which could Make or Break History...

Come, Take a Moment...
And experience all of the Intrigue and Curious Outcomes of...

An Urchin of Means - The Baker Street Series, Book 1 -2018

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.

For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-read / listened to Will's narration (he's brilliant, FYI) so I could put Ringo's voice in my head. I love him so much.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ringo is back in his time and is trying to adjust to life as a respectable Victorian gentlemen. But he feels that he can't give too much away from what is to happen in the future and to what he experienced in the past.

I am a huge Ringo fan and here I adore him even more than before. I wasn't quite sure if AW could make this interesting enough but I was wrong. Her attention to detail when it comes to history and research is spot on.

Ringo is the real Sherlock Holmes but is Jess then Watson?

[Brian Deegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the eighth book I’ve read by April White, and she has done it again. Urchin of Means is a fantastic addition to her world-building, and it was such a joy to return to this universe. Ringo has always been my favorite character, so getting a story centered on him was exactly what I wanted. April captures the grit and heart of Victorian London perfectly, making it feel incredibly real.

My only complaint is that I was left completely hanging! The story ends with the exciting promise of a trip to Victorian Scotland, and I’m genuinely saddened that there isn't a book #2 available yet. I would love to see where this journey goes and follow Ringo into the Highlands. If you’re a fan of April White’s previous work, this is a must-read—just be prepared to want more immediately!

[Kara-karina · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5

Ladies and gentlemen, if you loved following Ringo's adventures in The Immortal Descendants series, you will adore the man this series honed and distilled him into now!

An Urchin of Means starts with Ringo and his remarkable wife, Charlie, back into their native time, wealthy and settled and trying to figure out what to do with themselves, when fate yet again throws a twist into their lives.

Ringo's friend, Oscar Wilde, introduces him to none other than Arthur Conan Doyle, who is fascinated with Ringo's sharp mind, unique observational skills and powers of deduction... and who asks him to tackle an investigation into a couple of curious crimes.

Shocked and alarmed, Ringo realises that he is being used as a prototype for a famous detective, but he is also afraid to refuse and change history in the process. This is so much fun, guys! This is a reinvention of Sherlock Holmes, and I can not wait to see what would happen in Ringo's life next.

Both Charlie and Ringo are also very dissatisfied by social disparity of their time, and being revolutionaries at heart, they decide to affect change in any way they can, starting from taking under their wing a flock of street urchins, one of whom - Jess, shows a similar set of unique skills Ringo started with, and who becomes his assistant.

This is an excellent, vivid, fast-paced mystery and so much more, and my only complaint is that it was way too short! Highly recommended, folks! I enjoyed it very much, and I am looking forward to the next book in this series.

* * *

Дамы и господа, если вам понравилось следить за приключениями Ринго в серии "Бессмертные Потомки", то в эту книгу вы просто влюбитесь. Предыдущие пять книг выковали из Ринго великолепного героя, и его жена - Чарли, в этом плане от него не отстает.

"Уличный Мальчишка со Средствами" начинается с Ринго и Чарли вернувшимися в свое время и пытающимися понять что же теперь им с собой и со своим новоиспеченным богатством делать, когда их застает врасплох неожиданный поворот судьбы.

Друг Ринго, Оскар Уайлд, знакомит его с молодым автором - никем иным как Артуром Конаном Дойлом, и тот, зачарованный острым, наблюдательным умом Ринго, просит того помочь раскрыть загадочные преступления в Лондоне.

Ринго, ошарашенный совпадением, понимает, что ему не избежать судьбы прототипа известного детектива, но и отказаться он уже не может, иначе он кардинально изменит историю.

В то же время, вместе с Чарли он берет под свое крыло толпу уличных беспризорников, одна из которых - Джесс, проявляет те же способности, что и Ринго в ее возрасте и становится его ассистентом.

Ринго - в душе революционер и глубоко чувствует несправедливость своей эпохи. Эта книга позволяет ему наконец-то понять, что он сможет делать со своей жизнью и как ему с этой несправедливостью бороться.

Очень ярко, тонко, шикарно написанная детективная история, и моя единственная жалоба на то, что она закончилась слишком быстро! Очень рекомендую. Мисс Уайт - талантище! С нетерпением буду ждать продолжения.

[Shirra · Rating 5 out of 5]

April White has hit it out of the park again! Her writing is engrossing and she is perhaps the most visual story teller I can think of. Ringo's voice was clear and consistent, his wisdom and heart shone bright. April's ability to weave history with fiction was seamless as always. I can't recommend this book enough.

Although Ringo first appears in Marking Time and the books that follow in The Immortal Descendants series, you don't need to have read those to fully appreciate An Urchin of Means. I do, however, recommend in the strongest possible terms, that you read those books as well as they are also outstanding.

April White's books are perfect to read with the young people in your life.

[This Literary Life · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who loved April's Immortal Descendants series, I was ecstatic to get my hand on Ringo's book. He was my favorite character in the entire series and I was so happy to hear that he would be getting his own series. This story can be read without having read the previous series. I believe it stands alone quite well, and any references to intertwining characters or situations are explained well enough for any newbie.

Though this book is connected to the Immortal Descendants by Ringo, that is about all they have in common, and I mean that in the best possible way. It is so nice to see a totally different type of story come from one author, yet hold the integrity of their writing throughout. Ringo's story had the elements of Sherlock, but the message of hope. There was mystery, and free running and inspiration for days. Several times this book had me stop reading and just stare at the wall, contemplating how I could be making better choices for not only myself but the world around me. I adopted the WWRD (What would Ringo do?) motto to my thought process and am better for it. I enjoyed Ringo's ability to quickly and easily assess everything around him, and the mysteries he found himself square in the middle of, and not once did he have to bend his integrity to come out on top.

This story starts with Ringo and Charlie living back in his original time. He has seen the future and all the marvels it holds and has chosen to go back to where he is from, leaving him with the responsibility to use his knowledge wisely. I could feel the weight of this past years events woven throughout the story in the heaviness in Ringo's burden. He has this knowledge that holds power, he's a street urchin now living in comfort with the ability to make change, and he asks himself, 'How can I make this world a better place? Leave not my mark, but the mark of a kindness and hope for generations, in a world that needs more light.' And as with the past books I have read by April, you meet characters that not only influence and spark your heart to give a damn, but she fools you into thinking that its just a story.

And now that I am done, my mind continues to be provoked into thoughts that go far beyond the story and into one small change at a time. Well done April (& Ringo), well done.

[Cassie May · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Blog
I wanted to try to get my ducks in a row before writing this review, because any words I might have for this book would never feel adequate. It didn’t work, so I’m trying my best here.
An Urchin of means is the first book of April White’s new Baker Street Series. And before you ask, yes, it’s THE Baker Street, but that’s all you’ll get from me. It can be read as a standalone, even though the end will have you want more of Ringo, Charly and Jess. I recommend reading the Immortal Descendants series before, just to get to know Ringo and Charly and fall in love with them.
The writing style is exceptional. The pictures this author paints with her words were so vivid and real, I could smell, taste and hear everything that was happening in good old London. I was THERE with Ringo, Oskar, Jess and all of the others and stumbled through the streets trying to avoid pickpockets or chase after them. The author puts a lot of research and work in her books and you totally notice that. The details are wonderful and make me want to pick up more historical books.
The plot itself makes you yearn for more. Honestly. No book length could ever be enough for Ringo and his friends and I cannot wait for the second part. The plot enrolls like a carpet in front of you and even though it seems simple, you discover tiny patterns on second third and fourth look. Patterns that make you pick up the book again immediately after you finished it for the first time.
Even though it was my first time reading this book, it felt like coming home. Comforting with just the right amount of spice and wildness thrown into the mix that I wanted to read, read, read and never stop. And don’t get me started on Arthur Conan Doyle appearing suddenly…
If you haven’t read a book from April White, yet, now is the time to do so. Pick up one book, any book and give this exceptional author a chance. It is well deserved and you will not regret it.
I wish, I could give more than five stars for this book, because it is worth so much more than five stars.
Great book!
Great author!
Fantastic start for a new series!

[Grahame · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I found out Ringo and Charlotte were getting their own stories, I was over the top excited. But nothing prepared me for what An Urchin Of Means would be.
I fell in love all over again with Ringo and Charlotte. But it didn't stop there. Our old friend Oscar Wilde really takes center stage in this one, along with Jess, the girl who captured my heart from the very start.
This book is so clever. I couldn't put it down. The writing sucked me in and held me captive until the very end.
And these characters... I promise they will stick with you. You'll wish for Saira to let you time travel with her and be part of this world that feels so real.
I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy of this from the author. I assure you, the privilege was all mine. Pick up An Urchin Of Means now... and then you'll be on pins and needles like me for the next one in the series.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ringo is back in his own time and I love him even more. He and Charlie are building a good but tame life together until a run-in with a young pickpocket helps set off a series of Sherlockian adventures that begin at a lunch with Oscar Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle. So much fun and I can't wait for their next adventures!

[Tiffany Landers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, April White pulls out a bit more of her brilliant story-telling abilities, wowing me with Ringo's very own story. Ringo, a man who shall go down in history as a dearly loved, fictional friend in my heart. I met Ringo in White's Immortal Descendants series and have never been able to put him from my mind. His character is full of piss and vinegar, always strong, a true hero, and never faint of heart. With this new series, White weaves her one of a kind, Sherlock Homes (truly!) plots, captivating the reader with the details of historical fact, and fiction, she never fails to include with absolute delight. If you find yourself wondering if such a thing actually happened in history (as you'll often do in any of White's books), it probably did. Just look it up.
Racy, creativity at its absolute finest, and pure perfection with plot and character development, fall in love with Ringo (and all the secondary characters) in this witty and spectacular new series by April White.
Have You Heard?

[E · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Ms. White’s "An Urchin of Means" is one of the most enjoyable reads so far this year. The story is filled with well researched history, dynamic and complex characters, a bit of magic, legend, mystery and imagination. Set in Victorian England the main character, Ringo, finds himself solving mysteries with the help of an imp called Jess. Ringo lives with his wife Claire and accomplished artist and a few misfits, including two dogs. He befriends the likes of Arthur Conan Doyle, and Oscar Wilde who entice him into resolving crimes. Ringo is good at solving crimes. He developed his skills while very young living in the streets of London. If you love a bit of magic, mystery and a great story you will love this book. I strongly suggest that you read Ms. White’s "The Immortal Descendants" first to set the stage for "An Urchin of Means." Either way you will fall in love with the characters and their stories.

[Amber Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you April, for reuniting me with old friends!

A beautifully detailed book with characters who have a piece of my heart!

Great mysteries, and the city is a character itself!

[One Man Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check out my blog, One Man Book Club

The Value of a Star: Ratings Explained

I wish I could remember what made me pick up Marking Time, book 1 of April White's Immortal Descendants series. Was it the time travel? The vampires and shapeshifters? The historical fiction? Jack the Ripper? Probably a lot of each of those.

But the biggest reason?

It was FREE. It still is. Right now, on Amazon. It. Is. Free. It costs you exactly nothing. You have no excuse. Except that you're going to love it, and then you're going to have to by the next 4 books--which aren't free...

...but so worth reading. April White, indie author extraordinaire, writes books that are worth reading.

And with that preamble, I am happy to introduce you to her latest--An Urchin of Means, Book 1 of the Baker Street Series.

Ringo and Charlie, happily married and fresh off their time-traveling adventures in The Immortal Descendants series, have settled down in their native time and place—late Victorian Era, London. With a head full of the future and a past full of learning to survive alone on the streets, Ringo can’t help but be the coolest guy in town. So cool, in fact, that when his buddy Oscar Wilde invites Ringo to join Oscar Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle for lunch, Ringo’s exploits and skills of observation become source material for a certain famous detective.

Elementary, my dear.

An Urchin of Means is short enough to be read quickly, and the most interesting bits of history are woven seamlessly through the narrative like the fact and the fiction have always belonged together. This is historical fiction at its most fun. I loved it.

Here’s my prediction:

You’re going to give An Urchin of Means a try because it sounds like a fun story. (It is!)

You’re going to remember An Urchin of Means because of Oscar Wilde.

April let him steal the show, and I’m so glad she gave him the treatment he deserved. Oscar Wilde was a treasured personality who did not deserve the ignominious ending he received. Don’t know his history? Look him up. You’ll be happy you did.

Just like you’ll be happy you gave April White’s stories a try.

An Urchin of Means is written to stand alone. You don't have to have read The Immortal Descendants first. Jump right in.

These are books worth reading.

Happy Reading!

[Tolk · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesomely clever book! I enjoyed all of April White's books but this one is even a step further than the incredibly uncomplicated melee of the Mortal Descendants. It has an element of surprise and awesomeness to it that I simply could not anticipate. And it's elementary, dear readers, for the wicked cleverness of the book.
This is the first time that I curse the need to write a spoiler-free review because there is SO MUCH to say about this book and its characters. But you HAVE to read it yourself to understand.

It absolutely can be read as a standalone. But if you like it, do read the Mortal Descendants as well because those will explain a few things about Ringo's past and future that only get hinted on in this book. So if you are going to read both the series and this book, start with the series and then enjoy Ringo even more.

[Roo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I hate these words

THE END.

Why can't there be more, I feel a bit lost now.

I'll be back once I've recovered to write more of a review. Suffice it to say, if you've read The Immortal Descendants you'll love this (and if not, why not? They're good!) If you like Sherlock Holmes, Sherlock or even Elementary, this is also for you.

OK I'm back, I've read it again, I picked up a lot more on the second read. I have no idea how to review this without spoilers, in fact my comments as I read are probably spoilers. I still love this book.

I want the next one now, right now! April, you get writing please :)

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a daunting task indeed, to cobble together the words that could possibly describe the joy that I have found in reading anything this author writes. I will do my best.

Ringo. Ringo was introduced in the Immortal Descendants series. While he was not the main character, he was an extremely charming and popular character. Beloved by many, including this reviewer. When the final book of the Immortal Descendants came out, I was hesitant to read it. I didn't want the series to end!!! I truly grieved after having read that final installment. Though...EVEN THE ENDING WAS BRILLIANT!!! I have since re-read the series. When I learned that April White intended to begin a new series that featured Ringo, I was ecstatic. I was also just a teeny tiny bit concerned. After all, things did not work out so well for Joey Tribbiani...

What can I say that is not already in the synopsis? What has not already been reported by the many articulate reviewers? Read ALL of those reviews, if you haven't already. They are wonderful! This is what I can tell you. I don't know why I worried for one millisecond about Ringo's return in his very own series. This first installment in the Baker Street series is everything an April White thrill-ride promises. The plot is tight and SO interesting. The pace of the story is thoughtful and meaningful. That pace allows the reader to grasp all of the many details that layer this beautiful tale. The characters...I'm not sure how else to describe their richness other than to say that, while reading the book and the descriptions of those people AND their surroundings...the sharp and engaging dialogue...it almost feels as though I am sitting in a theater, watching a film. I would definitely see a film adaptation of this book! Don't you just love a book that calls events and people to mind that inspire you to do further research. Maybe you never knew that. Maybe you need a refresher. April White, I thank you for the many times that you have sent me into the catacombs of my mind. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle plays a role in An Urchin of Means. Maybe that was all that needed to be said in this review. Sir Arthur. Conan. Doyle.

I am in love with the cover of this book. Real love. The picture is gorgeous. The feel of the cover paper is divine in the hand. The pages are a crisp and brilliant white. The wonderful words of April White march across those pages and pull you right in! Go on, then. Grab the book! I recommend this and all April White books to EVERYONE.

***This series stands alone, yes. I do, however, suggest that you read the Immortal Descendants. It is not necessary to read that series before reading An Urchin of Means. There is just a wealth of "background adventuring" that explains how and why Ringo has become the man he is in this new series. His relationships with the main characters in Immortal Descendants (Saira and Archer) are a big part of how the size of Ringo's aspirations for his future grew. Now, Ringo is a grown man, though he will ever be a precocious and charming scamp in my eyes. I have enjoyed watching Ringo grow and I can't wait to see what he gets up to next.

[Jules The Book Junkie Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Urchin of Means is the first of the author’s new Baker Street series. It is a spin-off from the Immortal Descendant series; however, it is not necessary to have read the prior series as long as you have an inkling of the prior series’ premise. The author gives her readers sufficient information to dive right into the book.

Ms. White’s writing is smart and witty. The premise for her story is fun and creative. She clearly has been influenced by classic literature. Ms. White’s research is evident in the admirable scene setting and historical references. Avid readers will enjoy the various literary references in the story. Her characters are fantastic. The author brings her character, Ringo Devereux, back to the Victorian London, and with the knowledge he gained in prior time traveling, this former street urchin brings a kindness and generosity to the streets of London.

Ringo’s relationship with his wife Charlotte—who goes by the name Charlie—and his family of misfits, is utterly charming. The loving, respectful group is heartwarming. The addition of both Oscar Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle bring much levity to the story. Ms. White’s wry sense of humor is apparent throughout the book.

An Urchin of Means is a clean young adult novel that crosses the genres of historical fiction, mystery, and throws in a tiny bit of fantasy. I found it addicting, and I think readers of all ages will as well. It is sure to spark an interest in younger readers for some other well-known authors. The well paced plot, creative story premise and charming cast of characters made for a very entertaining read.

For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews: https://abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com

[Maggie Welsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

An Urchin of Means is the start of a series focusing on one of my favorite April White characters. Ringo appears in her Immortal Descendants series which you DO NOT have to have read before reading this book.

Set in Victorian London, this historical fiction deftly weaves together fact and imagination. April White's love of history and tendency to collect bits of historical fact pay off for her readers when combined with her storytelling skills and spot on writing. She grabs her readers by their imaginations and makes them feel like they are in the story. She gives us a wonderful cast of characters, and a vivid glimpse into the world of Victorian London. Five stars aren’t enough.

[Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh. I loved Ringo so much in this novel. I already loved him from his appearances in the Immortal Descendants series, but here, he was the main focus, and it was definitely well deserved.

Mystery, love, and friendship are the main themes here, and I loved how White managed to bring not only Oscar Wilde in as a character, but also Arthur Conan Doyle. And of course, some little details from Ringo’s days are what became important in the Sherlock Holmes novels :D Very well done, and also made me smile so big.

Charlie has really come into herself as well, and her way of helping others is the best ever.

I hope Ms. White will continue with the next two books that are planned in this series, even if it’s been a long time since there was an update about them.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes there are secondary characters that deserve their own story. If you've read the Inmortal Descendants series then you know Ringo Devereux is one of them.

My heart warmed and swelled reading about Ringo's established life in Victorian London along side his most charming wife Charlie. Their wedding in Cheating Death was one of my favorite parts of the book. Here we find them settled into their home in Grayson Manor and a few mysteries seem to practically land at Ringo's feet. This new series of mysteries is just the delightful light hearted book I needed to start the New Year off right!

If I thought I loved Ringo before, now I don't know what to call it. The world needs more honorable men that want to leave the place better than they found it, take care of loved ones (and more importantly those less fortunate). I could go on on and but I'll leave it at thanking April White for creating a character that inspires hope in these sometimes seemingly hopeless times.

Oh, I know I referenced another series, but this can totally be read as a standalone all though if you haven't read the Inmortal Descendants you should because you're missing out!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fascinating book! Just as action-packed and full of juicy historical tidbits as the Immortal Descendents series from which 3 of the main characters originated, it moved more quickly than those books at a pace that simply flew. This story, however, only hinted at the paranormal aspects of the original series and focused more on mystery and heist. I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on the rest of the series, the instant each book is released!

[Dreamer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical Fiction and Fantasy author April White has done it again! She has created a charming and elegant fictional narrative with origins in factual history. This time we follow Ringo Devereux, an important secondary character first introduced in the time travel series 'The Immortal Descendants,' as he associates with literary figures Oscar Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle in Victorian London. Crimes are afoot and the authors become fascinated by Ringo’s deductive skills and ability to solve mysteries.

It was wonderful to read of Ringo and his wife Charlie in their native time period, as I have immensely enjoyed 'The Immortal Descendants’ series, but readers do not need a working knowledge of that series in order to enjoy this book.

I look forward to reading about Ringo’s next adventure in ‘The Baker Street Series’. ‘An Urchin of Means’ is currently available for preorder and releases on January 30, 2018.

I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s. Read more reviews! http://dreamerjbookreviews.blogspot.com

[Fulvia Coyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

ByFinellaon 11 February 2018

April does it again, i love Ringo and Charlotte's adventures, who knew they could be best pals with Oscar Wilde and Arthur Conan Doyle. Ringo's perception of knowing just what to say while he solves mysteries, how he works out the finer points of meeting anyone from a thief to the Countess of Morcar is brilliant.

How Ringo has grown from a street urchin into the dynamic, educated young man who can fit in with everyone he encounters, the best quote ever "Colour is one of the least useful measures for deciding the quality of a person" The mix on old inventions with new is great especially Ringo trying to install electricity...someone is going to get their fingers burnt, or will he ! I can't wait to see how Ringo and co get on in Scotland

[Caffenero · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review is just a "wish", if your progenies share your vices (aka reading at full throttle) you will understand ;)
I wish I had the time to translate it in Italian for my older kid. I'm sure he would love it. It's the kind of story that add mystery, curious facts and adventure.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review of the book.***

White has taken her character, Ringo, from the Immortal Descendants series and has created a Sherlockian inspired mystery. I have read, and am a fan, of the Immortal Descendants series. I have been looking forward to the beginning of this series for some time and am very happy to say that I was not disappointed.

White was able to blend the background of Ringo from her initial series and expand on his background and skillset as to inspire the idea of a Sherlock-style character without copying the character in the least bit. She tips yet another hat to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle with her character Jess who becomes somewhat of the Watson character that Ringo needs.

Jess, a wholly new character created for this series, has the beginnings of a very in depth and beloved character. In An Urchin of Means, White describes Jess' background just enough so the reader understands where she comes from and how she is able to help Ringo, but leaves much of who she is and, more specifically, who she will become to mystery.

If there is one issue, it is the mentions to Ringo's past that are not specifically explained. The reason I say "if" is that these mentions are all more than adequately described in the Immortal Descendants series. As a reader of White's previous series, the book flowed perfectly and kept me very entertained. However, I can see some minor reference issues if the reader has never read the Immortal Descendants series. Overall, the book is a great mystery with an incredible cast of characters. I will be recommending this book as well as the Immortal Descendants series to friends and family.

[Jewelee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it!!!

First of all, I love Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes and all of the twists that everyone has done with the cunning detective, so when I saw that this had Baker Street on the cover, I immediately wanted it. I know of April White through reading Elizabeth Hunter’s books and being a part of her readers group, but I’ve never had (or took) the chance to actually read any of her books (April’s). Shame on me, I know!
This book was delightful Hey ! If you are familiar with Sherlock’s stories, the reading through this book will make you smile,plus the fact that April is a fantastic author, and makes her characters come alive within the pages. Ringo makes me smile and extremely envious of Jess and Charlie for knowing him. Now I am off to read The Immortal Descendants from the beginning.

Thank you April for your writing, and please keep it up! I really can’t wait for more books from the Baker Street Series, but please take your time and don’t rush because of your readers! 😉💝 Until then, I’ll be diving into The Immortal Descendants!

[TabReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️Ringo❤️

It was clear from the Immortal Descendants series there was something awfully special about Ringo. I am thrilled we have a chance to peak inside his brain.

I haven’t read any Sir Author Conan Doyle but love me some Benedict Cumberbatch in BBC’s Sherlock. Presenting Ringo as the model for the cunning detective was delightful as it was clever. I can’t wait to read more in the series.

[Jackie White · Rating 3 out of 5]

As much as I loved the writing style, the setting and the witty dialogue, the plot was underwhelming. Still curious to read the author’s other books.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, this author has impressed and amazed me with her ability to create characters, weave a story, and depict details.
First, my must haves for a decent book:
1. Good, likable characters that allow you see bits of yourself (or others) in their personality
2. A decent plot-no one wants to fall asleep reading
3. Actions and conversations that seem real and logical.
For a GREAT book:
1. It's ALL about the characters. I've got to love your characters. Even if they're flawed, especially when they're flawed. They've got be a person that feels real, one you understand, even if you don't necessarily agree with them all the time. A character that I'd like to know, talk to, spend time with.

An Urchin of Means has these fabulous characters. Ringo is a much loved character from Ms. White's previous series. He's intelligent, clever, kind, resourceful, witty, courageous, loyal, and inventive. Although, we don't get the chance to witness all of his unique qualities in this installment, I've no doubt that we'll see more in the coming books. Charlie is more of secondary character in this one but just as sweet and intuitive as ever. I look forward to more Charlie. We meet some new characters that are quite entertaining. Jess is compared to Ringo several times throughout the story but there's a bit of Saira in her too. We learn just enough about the rest of the misfits to peak our interest. I'm hopeful that I'll learn more about them as the series progresses.

The plot had me perplexed for the first half. The story read more like a novella than a book 1 of a new series. I just couldn't see the bigger picture, the problem so to speak. I felt more like I was strolling along picking up scraps of the plot. How does it fit together? What will it make? There was very little fantasy involved, it was all based on logic and observation. I was starting to doubt Ms. White and Ringo. I felt a bit panicked. Was this to be his life? Afraid to venture out and explore? Afraid to interact with others? But then those scraps became bigger and more detailed and suddenly I saw it. The cleverly woven pieces of the plot came together with just the beginning hints of fantasy and danger to lay the groundwork for something that's bound to be extraordinary. I. Can't. Wait.

***I received an ARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Ms White.