What do you think?
Rate this book
Charles Lenox Mysteries #0.2
The Vanishing Man
From the critically acclaimed and 'USA Today' bestselling author, Charles Finch, comes 'The Vanishing Man', the second in a prequel trilogy to his Charles Lenox Victorian series.
It concerns the theft of an antique painting and sends Detective Lenox on a hunt for a criminal mastermind. It's London, 1853. Having earned some renown by solving a case that baffled Scotland Yard, young Charles Lenox is called upon by the Duke of Dorset, one of England's most revered noblemen, for help. A painting of the Duke's great-grandfather has been stolen from his private study. But the Duke's concern is not for his ancestor's portrait; hiding in plain sight nearby is another painting of infinitely more value, one that holds the key to one of the country's most famous and best-kept secrets.
Dorset believes the thieves took the wrong painting and may return when they realize their error. When his fears result in murder, Lenox must act quickly to unravel the mystery behind both paintings before tragedy can strike again. As the Dorset family closes ranks to protect its reputation, Lenox uncovers a dark secret that could expose them to unimaginable scandal--and then reveals the existence of an artifact, priceless beyond measure, for which the family is willing to risk anything to keep hidden.
It concerns the theft of an antique painting and sends Detective Lenox on a hunt for a criminal mastermind. It's London, 1853. Having earned some renown by solving a case that baffled Scotland Yard, young Charles Lenox is called upon by the Duke of Dorset, one of England's most revered noblemen, for help. A painting of the Duke's great-grandfather has been stolen from his private study. But the Duke's concern is not for his ancestor's portrait; hiding in plain sight nearby is another painting of infinitely more value, one that holds the key to one of the country's most famous and best-kept secrets.
Dorset believes the thieves took the wrong painting and may return when they realize their error. When his fears result in murder, Lenox must act quickly to unravel the mystery behind both paintings before tragedy can strike again. As the Dorset family closes ranks to protect its reputation, Lenox uncovers a dark secret that could expose them to unimaginable scandal--and then reveals the existence of an artifact, priceless beyond measure, for which the family is willing to risk anything to keep hidden.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published February 19, 2019
1027 people are currently reading
2105 people want to read
About the author
Charles Finch
37 books2,471 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads' database with this name. See this thread for more information.
My name is Charles Finch - welcome! I'm the author of the Charles Lenox series of historical mysteries, as well as a recent novel about expatriate life in Oxford, THE LAST ENCHANTMENTS. I also write book reviews for the New York Times, USA Today, and the Chicago Tribune and essays in many different places.
Like most people on this website, I'm a huge reader. My taste is all over the place, though I tend to really like literary and mystery fiction. Some of my favorite writers: George Orwell, Henry Green, Dick Francis, Anthony Trollope, David Lodge, PG Wodehouse, Bill Bryson, Roberto Bolano, Jonathan Franzen, Shirley Hazzard, Leo Tolstoy, AR Ammons, Philip Larkin, Edgar Bowers, Laurent Binet, Laurie Colwin, Jane Austen, Arthur Conan Doyle, Philip Roth, Henrik Ibsen, Geoff Dyer, the list could go forever...
A bit about myself: I was born in New York City, and since then I've lived all over the place, in America, England, France...at the moment I'm in Chicago, where I just recently moved. I spend most of my time here writing, reading, walking my dog, and trying not to let my ears freeze off.
You can find me on Facebook (facebook.com/charlesfinchauthor) where my reader are always giving fantastic book reviews, or Twitter (twitter.com/charlesfinch) which I don't like quite as much, though it's okay. I'll also try to blog here. Please let me know what I'm doing wrong, since I have remedial goodreads skills...
My name is Charles Finch - welcome! I'm the author of the Charles Lenox series of historical mysteries, as well as a recent novel about expatriate life in Oxford, THE LAST ENCHANTMENTS. I also write book reviews for the New York Times, USA Today, and the Chicago Tribune and essays in many different places.
Like most people on this website, I'm a huge reader. My taste is all over the place, though I tend to really like literary and mystery fiction. Some of my favorite writers: George Orwell, Henry Green, Dick Francis, Anthony Trollope, David Lodge, PG Wodehouse, Bill Bryson, Roberto Bolano, Jonathan Franzen, Shirley Hazzard, Leo Tolstoy, AR Ammons, Philip Larkin, Edgar Bowers, Laurent Binet, Laurie Colwin, Jane Austen, Arthur Conan Doyle, Philip Roth, Henrik Ibsen, Geoff Dyer, the list could go forever...
A bit about myself: I was born in New York City, and since then I've lived all over the place, in America, England, France...at the moment I'm in Chicago, where I just recently moved. I spend most of my time here writing, reading, walking my dog, and trying not to let my ears freeze off.
You can find me on Facebook (facebook.com/charlesfinchauthor) where my reader are always giving fantastic book reviews, or Twitter (twitter.com/charlesfinch) which I don't like quite as much, though it's okay. I'll also try to blog here. Please let me know what I'm doing wrong, since I have remedial goodreads skills...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 526 reviews
November 27, 2018
So keep this under your hat, but INSIDE the Vanishing Man is the complete text of the much anticipated, oft-delayed final Game of Thrones book "The Winds of Winter"! Give five stars and pass along the word please! 😉
August 27, 2019
As much as I would like to make my living reviewing books, right now reviewing is only a passionate hobby that I immensely enjoy. My full-time career is in sales. The goal of those in sales is to give the customer what they want while still making a profit for your company and yourself. A good salesman doesn’t want to disappoint his customer. If you live by the motto “under promise but over deliver,” you should be successful with a clientele willing to return time and again.
Authors, dedicated to their craft and desiring to make a living share like goals with sales personnel. Authors need to sell their book to a targeted audience in hopes you will enjoy it and then recommend it to others and thus build a following for future work.
With that being said, I feel that Charles Finch’s novel, The Vanishing Man, does not “over deliver” a great historical fictional mystery novel. The story and plot were spot on but it dragged and became at times tedious to read.
I feel that a good edit of this book would have helped streamline the dialogue between the characters and quicken the pace to that which a good mystery should be.
As I said earlier, the story that Charles Finch writes is quite intriguing and ends with a more than satisfactory conclusion.
Amateur sleuth, Charles Lennox, who has earned some renown by solving a case that Scotland Yard couldn’t solve, is asked to consult the Duke of Dorset about a painting. It turns out that someone has stolen a portrait of the Duke’s great grandfather. Now given the era of the 1850s, that would be a tantalizing mystery on it’s own as art theft is historically full of diabolical characters and borderline genius criminal masterminds. But the Duke wants Charles to find out why the thief or thieves did not take the infinitely more valuable painting that was below the stolen portrait.
Does the thief know that he made a mistake? Will the thief come back for the other painting? What secrets do these paintings hold?
As Charles Lennox puts all of his investigative skills to work, Dorset fears more harm to his family and those close to him. All of his money and nobility cannot stop a murder and save his reputation.
Can Lennox find the mastermind before anymore of Dorset’s family suffers?
What price will Lennox have to pay for involving himself with unsavory individuals as he unmasks secrets behind the paintings?
As in the previous Charles Lennox series, he will need the help and friendship of Lady Jane, a source of friendship and a worthy ally.
Charles Finch’s, The Vanishing Man, is a great story and mystery, plain and simple. Had he spent a little less time in teaching about the different levels of aristocracy, it would have been a five star book.
There are details that would enhance the reading of this book by reading the first installment in this series but it is satisfactory as a stand alone book.
The characters are likable and believable. Lennox is smart and clever with a sense of humor that will make you chuckle throughout the book.
This is a true mystery, not a mystery/thriller. No need for that “OMG” thriller moment because Finch gives us an honest to goodness old fashioned detective mystery.
Clues are there but only the cleverest of sleuths will solve it before Charles Lennox does.
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. #NetGalley #TheVanishingMan
Authors, dedicated to their craft and desiring to make a living share like goals with sales personnel. Authors need to sell their book to a targeted audience in hopes you will enjoy it and then recommend it to others and thus build a following for future work.
With that being said, I feel that Charles Finch’s novel, The Vanishing Man, does not “over deliver” a great historical fictional mystery novel. The story and plot were spot on but it dragged and became at times tedious to read.
I feel that a good edit of this book would have helped streamline the dialogue between the characters and quicken the pace to that which a good mystery should be.
As I said earlier, the story that Charles Finch writes is quite intriguing and ends with a more than satisfactory conclusion.
Amateur sleuth, Charles Lennox, who has earned some renown by solving a case that Scotland Yard couldn’t solve, is asked to consult the Duke of Dorset about a painting. It turns out that someone has stolen a portrait of the Duke’s great grandfather. Now given the era of the 1850s, that would be a tantalizing mystery on it’s own as art theft is historically full of diabolical characters and borderline genius criminal masterminds. But the Duke wants Charles to find out why the thief or thieves did not take the infinitely more valuable painting that was below the stolen portrait.
Does the thief know that he made a mistake? Will the thief come back for the other painting? What secrets do these paintings hold?
As Charles Lennox puts all of his investigative skills to work, Dorset fears more harm to his family and those close to him. All of his money and nobility cannot stop a murder and save his reputation.
Can Lennox find the mastermind before anymore of Dorset’s family suffers?
What price will Lennox have to pay for involving himself with unsavory individuals as he unmasks secrets behind the paintings?
As in the previous Charles Lennox series, he will need the help and friendship of Lady Jane, a source of friendship and a worthy ally.
Charles Finch’s, The Vanishing Man, is a great story and mystery, plain and simple. Had he spent a little less time in teaching about the different levels of aristocracy, it would have been a five star book.
There are details that would enhance the reading of this book by reading the first installment in this series but it is satisfactory as a stand alone book.
The characters are likable and believable. Lennox is smart and clever with a sense of humor that will make you chuckle throughout the book.
This is a true mystery, not a mystery/thriller. No need for that “OMG” thriller moment because Finch gives us an honest to goodness old fashioned detective mystery.
Clues are there but only the cleverest of sleuths will solve it before Charles Lennox does.
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. #NetGalley #TheVanishingMan
February 23, 2019
I so enjoyed this second prequel to the Charles Lenox series. It's so much fun to go back and see how how he developed his career and honed his skills and contacts. I love seeing the interactions between the characters at the beginning of their relationships. It really made me smile.
The story starts with Charles landing his first big client, the Duke of Dorset. He is the most powerful Duke in England and often dines with the Queen. The Duke reports a purported break-in at his house and the theft of one of his paintings. The odd part is that it's not an expensive one but a rather cheap one. Why would anyone take it?
The trail leads to a supposed rare picture of William Shakespeare and a hidden play that has never been performed. There is lots of interesting trivia about Shakespeare and how his characters got their names. I found it informative. It's hard to believe that reading a historical novel will lead to so much knowledge about the famous playwright.
There is a murder. The Duke is arrested and put in the Tower of London. I liked the journey through the Tower and it's history. In fact, the whole darn book was interesting. If you are looking for an absorbing mystery, a look at the 1850's and learning more about Shakespeare, you will love this book.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
The story starts with Charles landing his first big client, the Duke of Dorset. He is the most powerful Duke in England and often dines with the Queen. The Duke reports a purported break-in at his house and the theft of one of his paintings. The odd part is that it's not an expensive one but a rather cheap one. Why would anyone take it?
The trail leads to a supposed rare picture of William Shakespeare and a hidden play that has never been performed. There is lots of interesting trivia about Shakespeare and how his characters got their names. I found it informative. It's hard to believe that reading a historical novel will lead to so much knowledge about the famous playwright.
There is a murder. The Duke is arrested and put in the Tower of London. I liked the journey through the Tower and it's history. In fact, the whole darn book was interesting. If you are looking for an absorbing mystery, a look at the 1850's and learning more about Shakespeare, you will love this book.
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
September 7, 2025
Finch’s mysteries are ironically soothing, atmospheric and nice to the core without straying near the cozy line. Interesting historical and etymological Easter eggs sprinkled through a murder-theft-literary mystery. It’s a reliable series I go to as soon as there’s a new release.
February 11, 2019
4.5 out of 5 stars
The early and formative years of young Charles Lenox, as private investigator/detective extraordinaire continue in this second prequel of the Charles Lenox mystery series by talented writer, Charles Finch. The story opens in London, 1853, three years following Lenox's successful solving of a baffling murder in the first prequel, "The Woman in the Water". He continues in his quest searching for work as a detective, much to the puzzlement and scorn of his peers. Money was not what motivated him. In fact, you couldn't hire him if you wanted to but could merely engage his services. So when the Duke of Dorset sought Charles' assistance with a delicate theft in the Duke's home, it was more the command appearance by someone so high on the peerage chart which set young Lenox on edge. The Duke was convinced that a thief stole the wrong item from his private study as the item adjacent to it held a much higher value. Surprisingly, only the name of the thief was important to the Duke and not necessarily the recapture of the stolen item.
As Lenox sets about on his detecting, a kidnapping occurs, a murder, and yet another theft. Through his honed skills of observation, Lenox goes about unraveling the details and working out the various mysteries, all while dealing with the mercurial disposition of a duke.
The character development, including that of secondary characters, is rich, humorous and at times, charming. Such lighter moments ease the heaviness of the darker subjects at hand. The descriptive prose is rich and sets well the scene such that one is easily transported to the streets of East London and St. James Park of 1853. The mind of Charles Lenox is that of an inquisitive young man who is continuously honing his skills through ardent study, research and observation. He visits insane asylums to study the minds and motivations of the criminally insane. Lenox's interactions with his young nephew, Lancelot, are absolutely delightful and often confound the detective.
If finely written historical mystery is your passion, then this may well be the book for you!
I am grateful to author Charles Finch, publisher, St. Martin's Press and Netgalley for having provided an advanced reader e-copy of this book. There generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
The early and formative years of young Charles Lenox, as private investigator/detective extraordinaire continue in this second prequel of the Charles Lenox mystery series by talented writer, Charles Finch. The story opens in London, 1853, three years following Lenox's successful solving of a baffling murder in the first prequel, "The Woman in the Water". He continues in his quest searching for work as a detective, much to the puzzlement and scorn of his peers. Money was not what motivated him. In fact, you couldn't hire him if you wanted to but could merely engage his services. So when the Duke of Dorset sought Charles' assistance with a delicate theft in the Duke's home, it was more the command appearance by someone so high on the peerage chart which set young Lenox on edge. The Duke was convinced that a thief stole the wrong item from his private study as the item adjacent to it held a much higher value. Surprisingly, only the name of the thief was important to the Duke and not necessarily the recapture of the stolen item.
As Lenox sets about on his detecting, a kidnapping occurs, a murder, and yet another theft. Through his honed skills of observation, Lenox goes about unraveling the details and working out the various mysteries, all while dealing with the mercurial disposition of a duke.
The character development, including that of secondary characters, is rich, humorous and at times, charming. Such lighter moments ease the heaviness of the darker subjects at hand. The descriptive prose is rich and sets well the scene such that one is easily transported to the streets of East London and St. James Park of 1853. The mind of Charles Lenox is that of an inquisitive young man who is continuously honing his skills through ardent study, research and observation. He visits insane asylums to study the minds and motivations of the criminally insane. Lenox's interactions with his young nephew, Lancelot, are absolutely delightful and often confound the detective.
If finely written historical mystery is your passion, then this may well be the book for you!
I am grateful to author Charles Finch, publisher, St. Martin's Press and Netgalley for having provided an advanced reader e-copy of this book. There generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
November 6, 2019
I'm officially entranced by this Victorian gentleman detective!
Dare I say it? I am SO enamored of Charles Lenox, a gentleman detective of Victorian times who can't ask for payment as that would seem like he's in 'trade.'
He is a thoroughly nice man (now 26), intelligent, a sense of humor, compassionate and always willing to learn.
This case was a difficult one for Lenox as he stepped into the rarified atmosphere of Dukes (of which there are only twenty-eight), their closeness to the throne in the pecking order of things, and how all this impacts Lenox's investigations when his particular Duke, the Duke of Dorset, is taken to the Tower when his manservant of thirty years, Craig, is killed.
A lively and often discouraging investigation that includes something stolen from the Duke's real private study (as opposed to his public private study--I love that!), lost Shakespearian realia, a kidnapping, and murder.
Somewhat puzzling, because it's never quite front and center, an inmate in Bedlam claiming to be falsely incarcerated becomes a concern for Charles.
Then there's Charles best friend and lost love Lady Jane (previously referred to as Elizabeth), and his rambunctious and delightful scamp of a nephew, Lancelot who provided some fabulous light relief. Lancelot's interaction with the Duke is priceless.
Mrs Huggins, Charles' most exacting housekeeper finds a scintillating relationship with cats, Graham is as always present and we meet the mysterious Mr Thaddeus Bonden, a man with a peculiar talent for observing and finding things.
Filled with intrepid, puzzling and often downright humorous happenings, this is a very clever and well written novel.
A Minotaur Books ARC via NetGalley
Dare I say it? I am SO enamored of Charles Lenox, a gentleman detective of Victorian times who can't ask for payment as that would seem like he's in 'trade.'
He is a thoroughly nice man (now 26), intelligent, a sense of humor, compassionate and always willing to learn.
This case was a difficult one for Lenox as he stepped into the rarified atmosphere of Dukes (of which there are only twenty-eight), their closeness to the throne in the pecking order of things, and how all this impacts Lenox's investigations when his particular Duke, the Duke of Dorset, is taken to the Tower when his manservant of thirty years, Craig, is killed.
A lively and often discouraging investigation that includes something stolen from the Duke's real private study (as opposed to his public private study--I love that!), lost Shakespearian realia, a kidnapping, and murder.
Somewhat puzzling, because it's never quite front and center, an inmate in Bedlam claiming to be falsely incarcerated becomes a concern for Charles.
Then there's Charles best friend and lost love Lady Jane (previously referred to as Elizabeth), and his rambunctious and delightful scamp of a nephew, Lancelot who provided some fabulous light relief. Lancelot's interaction with the Duke is priceless.
Mrs Huggins, Charles' most exacting housekeeper finds a scintillating relationship with cats, Graham is as always present and we meet the mysterious Mr Thaddeus Bonden, a man with a peculiar talent for observing and finding things.
Filled with intrepid, puzzling and often downright humorous happenings, this is a very clever and well written novel.
A Minotaur Books ARC via NetGalley
March 4, 2019
Enjoyed this second outing with young Charles Lenox, gentleman detective.
The blurb gives a good idea of the basic plot, so I won't bother with a recap.
The fun, for me, was in watching Lenox interact with the Duke of Dorset. He begins his job for the Duke in a properly deferential manner. Really, he's rather flattered that the Duke asked for his help. Then the Duke shows his true stripes and a good deal of the deference disappears. The give and take between the two is entertaining--I was cheering Lenox on.
In addition to dealing with the Duke (and his very dysfunctional family), Lenox is constantly working on improving his investigative skills. He becomes the pupil of a Mr Bonden, who has a reputation for being able to find lost or stolen items. Bonden is also expert at not being noticed; he can ‘vanish’ into the background—a skill that would serve Lenox well in his detecting efforts.
There are several other entertaining sub-plots burbling in the background. A young schoolboy cousin comes to stay for two weeks, Lady Jane tries to play matchmaker, and Lenox spends time investigating one of the patients confined to Bedlam who claims to be someone else—imprisoned there in error.
By the end, the Duke’s mystery is solved and Lenox has learned a few hard lessons.
Bring on the next book! I’m ready.
The blurb gives a good idea of the basic plot, so I won't bother with a recap.
The fun, for me, was in watching Lenox interact with the Duke of Dorset. He begins his job for the Duke in a properly deferential manner. Really, he's rather flattered that the Duke asked for his help. Then the Duke shows his true stripes and a good deal of the deference disappears. The give and take between the two is entertaining--I was cheering Lenox on.
In addition to dealing with the Duke (and his very dysfunctional family), Lenox is constantly working on improving his investigative skills. He becomes the pupil of a Mr Bonden, who has a reputation for being able to find lost or stolen items. Bonden is also expert at not being noticed; he can ‘vanish’ into the background—a skill that would serve Lenox well in his detecting efforts.
There are several other entertaining sub-plots burbling in the background. A young schoolboy cousin comes to stay for two weeks, Lady Jane tries to play matchmaker, and Lenox spends time investigating one of the patients confined to Bedlam who claims to be someone else—imprisoned there in error.
By the end, the Duke’s mystery is solved and Lenox has learned a few hard lessons.
Bring on the next book! I’m ready.
June 3, 2019
Despite this being in the 1850's (Victoria's growing family years with Albert intact) of gritty London, I can't imagine a more cozy series for the telling. It's good, but it holds some flaws. For one, it moves quite slowly in the first half and holds considerable repetition. Most especially in tea druthers. I do think that Charles, younger and more seemingly energetic too, was a plus in this particular novel.
Pure candy reads for those who like their tales of detective work within mannerly wordings and tons of social context, class, and work structures that reflect the practical living of that time and place- you will find it here. I do think the book overall in form could have used a better edit.
Pure candy reads for those who like their tales of detective work within mannerly wordings and tons of social context, class, and work structures that reflect the practical living of that time and place- you will find it here. I do think the book overall in form could have used a better edit.
March 20, 2020
A pleasant jaunt back in time. My attention meandered as I listened and to be honest despite listening to the ending twice over I still don't really know the answer to the mystery. However, I did enjoy the listening experience and the main characters in this series are endearing. I was also delighted with the references to Shakespeare and his plays.
My favorite passages:
"Jones smiled a private smile, a librarian's smile, full of dusty secrets and happy solitudes."
“She gave Charles the kind of hug only a mother can give, in which part of her love passes into a person, truly and physically, a press of the body holding in its few seconds a history of tenderness...”
My favorite passages:
"Jones smiled a private smile, a librarian's smile, full of dusty secrets and happy solitudes."
“She gave Charles the kind of hug only a mother can give, in which part of her love passes into a person, truly and physically, a press of the body holding in its few seconds a history of tenderness...”
August 10, 2024
4 Stars. I like a mystery which makes me think. What's going on here? Will our hero, in this case Charles Lenox, be able to work through the false clues and missteps and resolve it to our satisfaction? This one's my kind of mystery. It's one of the prequels to the original series which opened with 'A Beautiful Blue Death' published in 2007 and featuring a gentleman private detective in London, England in 1865. The setting here is 1853 and Lenox has just completed the first of his cases and tells Lady Jane Grey, his lovely but married, next-door neighbour that he's off to see a duke about another one. Business is developing, if only it would pay! He's lucky, and we're lucky, that he's independently wealthy or this whole series would be a non-starter. It turns out that the Duke of Dorset, one of the leading citizens of the realm and an acquaintance of the Queen, has been robbed. A painting of his great-grandfather, the 14th duke, is missing. Lenox is astonished to learn that the thieves left behind the one next to it - one of William Shakespeare and thought to be a true-likeness. There aren't many. Very valuable. It astonished me too. What's going on here? (Au2024)
December 5, 2018
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books for an eGalley of this novel.
I liked this book but didn't find it engrossing. I could put it down and go away without feeling that tug in my mind to hurry up and get back to reading it. This is the second book in a prequel trilogy so the author has used this time to show readers what Charles Lennox was up against in 1853 London when he was trying to establish himself as an investigator? or a detective? He can't quite make up his mind what to call himself. At this point Lennox is 26 years old and has been picking up cases in his new profession for three years. Lady Jane Grey lives in the house next door and has lots of free time to be part of the world Lennox is making for himself because her husband is away most of the time serving in the military. So there you have it on the day Lennox responds to a request from the Duke of Dorset for an interview and discovers a missing painting and a potential client who is very sure of his importance in the English nobility.
I didn't find this plot to be very interesting or the mystery difficult to solve. What was very interesting was the clear, concise explanation of the titles and ranks of the nobility. I've read many authors who have tried to simplify that but this is the best yet for me. I also enjoyed the information on how some common words came into being, one example being the word tips. I'll leave that for you to discover for yourself. I'm sure I will read the final prequel in this trilogy, but I am also sure I will be glad when Lennox and his friends and staff get themselves back to where I left them before all this prequel stuff began.
I liked this book but didn't find it engrossing. I could put it down and go away without feeling that tug in my mind to hurry up and get back to reading it. This is the second book in a prequel trilogy so the author has used this time to show readers what Charles Lennox was up against in 1853 London when he was trying to establish himself as an investigator? or a detective? He can't quite make up his mind what to call himself. At this point Lennox is 26 years old and has been picking up cases in his new profession for three years. Lady Jane Grey lives in the house next door and has lots of free time to be part of the world Lennox is making for himself because her husband is away most of the time serving in the military. So there you have it on the day Lennox responds to a request from the Duke of Dorset for an interview and discovers a missing painting and a potential client who is very sure of his importance in the English nobility.
I didn't find this plot to be very interesting or the mystery difficult to solve. What was very interesting was the clear, concise explanation of the titles and ranks of the nobility. I've read many authors who have tried to simplify that but this is the best yet for me. I also enjoyed the information on how some common words came into being, one example being the word tips. I'll leave that for you to discover for yourself. I'm sure I will read the final prequel in this trilogy, but I am also sure I will be glad when Lennox and his friends and staff get themselves back to where I left them before all this prequel stuff began.
March 4, 2020
Lenox is from the aristocracy. His forays into detective work have not found favour with the high and mighty and he has in fact suffered direct snubs as well as even invitations given and then withdrawn for social events. Lenox feels that his family also suffers the indignity of having one of their own doing a job as it were as this is beyond the pale for members of their kind, but on the contrary his father and mother are proud of his achievements and understand his feelings that he wants to use his analytical mind and seek logical conclusions for problems that he tries to solve.
In this story in the 1850s, the Duke of Dorset seeks his help in finding a lost painting. The painting itself does not amount to much - one of the ancestors - but Lenox soon finds that there is much more than the missing painting that meets the eye and the Duke has not been very honest in seeking Lenox's help. Unraveling a mystery painting, plus in the meantime trying to find one of the lost works of Shakespeare amidst red herrings thrown their way Lenox and his faithful valet Graham, even more capable than Lenox try to solve the mystery.
Methodical and systematic, the story will appeal to a logical mind and it did to me!
In this story in the 1850s, the Duke of Dorset seeks his help in finding a lost painting. The painting itself does not amount to much - one of the ancestors - but Lenox soon finds that there is much more than the missing painting that meets the eye and the Duke has not been very honest in seeking Lenox's help. Unraveling a mystery painting, plus in the meantime trying to find one of the lost works of Shakespeare amidst red herrings thrown their way Lenox and his faithful valet Graham, even more capable than Lenox try to solve the mystery.
Methodical and systematic, the story will appeal to a logical mind and it did to me!
November 14, 2018
I thoroughly enjoy the Charles Lenox mysteries, and this one was no exception. It is fascinating to get a sense of London in 1853, and to see a younger Charles Lenox. There's also a corking good mystery, with enough layers and twists to keep my happy and engaged. I enjoy the author's writing and look forward to the next Charles Lenox mystery.
October 4, 2021
Intelligent, Entertaining, and Humorous. What more can you ask?
Finch moves up to my list of "must-read" authors.
Best scene: Lancelot and the Duke.
Finch moves up to my list of "must-read" authors.
Best scene: Lancelot and the Duke.
March 11, 2019
I have enjoyed all of the Charles Lenox books and thought this portrayal of a younger, somewhat peppier version of the gentleman detective rather fun. In a twinkling he looks over a walled embankment seeing a couple skiffs at rest and yells down to ask if he can hire a ride, climbing over said wall and down a ladder to the Thames. He is 26 in this prequel and Lady Jane about 21.
Lenox with the help of a certain "finder" by the name of Bonden as well as his trusty valet manage to unravel a twisted mystery centered in the realm of one high and mighty Duke of Dorset. Part of this complex tapestry is uncovering a mysterious, long-held clue to a possible final play written by Shakespeare.
A source of comic relief is the young cousin Lancelot who is in temporary residence along with his pea shooter. He is used successfully to bring the pompous Duke in this story down a peg or two.
I want some unfinished threads to be revealed sooner rather than later. Next book, please!
Note: The beginning of this book is rather rough, and I suspect it may have been caused by releasing the first part of the book as a freebie to those on the internet clamoring for his next book. Maybe? In other words, don't be put off by the slow and sometimes stumbling start. The book gets much better as you go along.
Lenox with the help of a certain "finder" by the name of Bonden as well as his trusty valet manage to unravel a twisted mystery centered in the realm of one high and mighty Duke of Dorset. Part of this complex tapestry is uncovering a mysterious, long-held clue to a possible final play written by Shakespeare.
A source of comic relief is the young cousin Lancelot who is in temporary residence along with his pea shooter. He is used successfully to bring the pompous Duke in this story down a peg or two.
I want some unfinished threads to be revealed sooner rather than later. Next book, please!
Note: The beginning of this book is rather rough, and I suspect it may have been caused by releasing the first part of the book as a freebie to those on the internet clamoring for his next book. Maybe? In other words, don't be put off by the slow and sometimes stumbling start. The book gets much better as you go along.
January 26, 2019
Series: Charles Lenox Mysteries – Prequel #2
Publication Date: 2/19/19
Number of Pages: 304
The Vanishing Man is a wonderful addition to the Prequel series for Charles Lenox Mysteries and it is set three years after the first of the prequel novels A Woman In The Water. As always, it is well-written and well-plotted. I have read all of the books in the Charles Lenox series and it is nice to now go back in time and meet a younger and more unsure Charles who is just feeling his way into his chosen profession. The author does an excellent job of putting you in that time and place and making you feel the censure Charles gets from his peers for choosing that profession. While the mystery is excellent, two of my favorite things had nothing to do with it – one was the excellent outline of the British peerage, it was excellently done, and another was learning the origins of some words like ‘tips’ and ‘clue’. I might also add that if I were just newly coming to this series now, I would prefer to read the prequels before starting on the series itself. For one thing, the travel back in time is a bit of a shock to the system and it is bittersweet to get to know some people when you already know what their future holds.
In this book, Charles is still fairly melancholy and missing his father a lot. The author did an excellent job of putting you in Charles’ place and making you understand his grief and loss. Charles also does a bit of pining for what might have been between him and Jane. On a lighter note, I absolutely loved Charles’ young cousin, Lancelot, who was staying with him over the two-week term break at Eton. There is a scene in there between Lancelot and the Duke of Dorset that will have you in stitches!
Charles still hasn’t decided what to call himself – Private Investigator – Private Detective – he just can’t decide and since there are no others like him, it is up to him. Since his last case, things have been pretty slow for Charles – and then he gets a summons from the Duke of Dorset. So, things are looking up.
Charles arrives at the Duke’s home and is taken directly to the duke’s private-private study (you’ll understand when you read the book) where the duke tells him that there has been a robbery and he wants Charles to solve it. A painting with little value has been stolen from the room they are in, but the duke is convinced that the thief got the wrong painting. There is a priceless painting hanging directly beside the one that was stolen and the duke is sure that is the one the thieves wanted. After hearing the entire tale, Charles isn’t so sure that the thieves took the wrong painting. What was surprising was that the duke was only interested in the name of the thief, he wasn’t interested at all in recovering the painting.
Charles is busy trying to track down the painting when the duke is kidnapped and a ransom demand is left behind. Now, Charles has two mysteries to solve! Then – there is a murder and Charles has three cases to juggle. It will take all of his investigational skills and observational skills to figure out what is happening. He also meets Thaddeus Bonden who is famed for ‘finding’ things and Bonden agrees to help and to mentor Charles in some skills Charles feels he is lacking.
There is excellent character development from the first book to this one and it is nice to be able to explore the early relationships between Charles and his brother as well as Charles and Lady Jane. The love between Charles and his brother, Edwin, is plain to see and I enjoyed their interactions. All of the relationships in Charles’ life – Edwin, Graham, Mrs. Huggins, Lady Jane – are all rich, charming and funny. Then you add in the mischievous Lancelot into the mix and you have some lovely light moments that alleviate those darker ones.
I love Charles’ continuing pursuit of knowledge in the field of his craft. Part of that pursuit causes him to visit bedlam weekly to speak with criminally insane inmates. He wants to understand the criminal mind. Charles is insatiably curious about almost everything and that all goes a long way to help him develop the necessary skills he needs.
I definitely recommend this book and this series. It is very well written and the research is impeccable. You feel as if you are in that place and time along with the characters in the book. Well done Mr. Finch.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 2/19/19
Number of Pages: 304
The Vanishing Man is a wonderful addition to the Prequel series for Charles Lenox Mysteries and it is set three years after the first of the prequel novels A Woman In The Water. As always, it is well-written and well-plotted. I have read all of the books in the Charles Lenox series and it is nice to now go back in time and meet a younger and more unsure Charles who is just feeling his way into his chosen profession. The author does an excellent job of putting you in that time and place and making you feel the censure Charles gets from his peers for choosing that profession. While the mystery is excellent, two of my favorite things had nothing to do with it – one was the excellent outline of the British peerage, it was excellently done, and another was learning the origins of some words like ‘tips’ and ‘clue’. I might also add that if I were just newly coming to this series now, I would prefer to read the prequels before starting on the series itself. For one thing, the travel back in time is a bit of a shock to the system and it is bittersweet to get to know some people when you already know what their future holds.
In this book, Charles is still fairly melancholy and missing his father a lot. The author did an excellent job of putting you in Charles’ place and making you understand his grief and loss. Charles also does a bit of pining for what might have been between him and Jane. On a lighter note, I absolutely loved Charles’ young cousin, Lancelot, who was staying with him over the two-week term break at Eton. There is a scene in there between Lancelot and the Duke of Dorset that will have you in stitches!
Charles still hasn’t decided what to call himself – Private Investigator – Private Detective – he just can’t decide and since there are no others like him, it is up to him. Since his last case, things have been pretty slow for Charles – and then he gets a summons from the Duke of Dorset. So, things are looking up.
Charles arrives at the Duke’s home and is taken directly to the duke’s private-private study (you’ll understand when you read the book) where the duke tells him that there has been a robbery and he wants Charles to solve it. A painting with little value has been stolen from the room they are in, but the duke is convinced that the thief got the wrong painting. There is a priceless painting hanging directly beside the one that was stolen and the duke is sure that is the one the thieves wanted. After hearing the entire tale, Charles isn’t so sure that the thieves took the wrong painting. What was surprising was that the duke was only interested in the name of the thief, he wasn’t interested at all in recovering the painting.
Charles is busy trying to track down the painting when the duke is kidnapped and a ransom demand is left behind. Now, Charles has two mysteries to solve! Then – there is a murder and Charles has three cases to juggle. It will take all of his investigational skills and observational skills to figure out what is happening. He also meets Thaddeus Bonden who is famed for ‘finding’ things and Bonden agrees to help and to mentor Charles in some skills Charles feels he is lacking.
There is excellent character development from the first book to this one and it is nice to be able to explore the early relationships between Charles and his brother as well as Charles and Lady Jane. The love between Charles and his brother, Edwin, is plain to see and I enjoyed their interactions. All of the relationships in Charles’ life – Edwin, Graham, Mrs. Huggins, Lady Jane – are all rich, charming and funny. Then you add in the mischievous Lancelot into the mix and you have some lovely light moments that alleviate those darker ones.
I love Charles’ continuing pursuit of knowledge in the field of his craft. Part of that pursuit causes him to visit bedlam weekly to speak with criminally insane inmates. He wants to understand the criminal mind. Charles is insatiably curious about almost everything and that all goes a long way to help him develop the necessary skills he needs.
I definitely recommend this book and this series. It is very well written and the research is impeccable. You feel as if you are in that place and time along with the characters in the book. Well done Mr. Finch.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
November 5, 2018
London, 1853. Young Charles Lenox is still learning his chosen trade of private instigator/detective (he isn’t quite sure what to call himself). Business has been very slow to come his way, but he finally lands a whale in the form of none other than the Duke of Dorset. Seems the Duke has been robbed of a painting from his private study, but the real mystery is why was the painting right next to it, a painting of inestimably greater value not taken instead? Lenox’s perusal of the case takes him all through London, including the Bedlam “hospital” and even to the Tower of London. The case itself evolves into a murder investigation as well as a treasure hunt based on clues uncovered along the way.
This is the second book of the prequel novels to the Charles Lenox mystery series. I have not read the main series, nor the first of the prequels, but based on my reading of this book, I certainly plan to correct that situation. The book reads well as a stand-alone and I don’t feel penalized for not having read its predecessor, but I can imagine I might have missed a few aspects. For example, the young character of Lancelot is marvelous, and I could easily see him having a primary role in the main series. I look forward to finding out.
This was a very pleasurable read and even though I’ve read quite a few novels set in London during this time frame, I feel like I learned quite a lot. It was interesting to see how the justice system affected people of different classes, especially the Duke who is among the highest ranking of all. Add the fact that Lenox is but a commoner, and we have some intriguing interactions to be sure. The pacing moves along nicely but the author does not skip on the building of his characters. The dialog seemed quite realistic to me and while it assisted the plot along, it was also humorous in spots which made this an even more enjoyable read.
Bottom line is that this was a fun book to read, with an interesting historical mystery or three to keep the reader engaged. And I have a new author to add to my reading future, one that already has a head start in making the top tier.
Highly recommended.
This is the second book of the prequel novels to the Charles Lenox mystery series. I have not read the main series, nor the first of the prequels, but based on my reading of this book, I certainly plan to correct that situation. The book reads well as a stand-alone and I don’t feel penalized for not having read its predecessor, but I can imagine I might have missed a few aspects. For example, the young character of Lancelot is marvelous, and I could easily see him having a primary role in the main series. I look forward to finding out.
This was a very pleasurable read and even though I’ve read quite a few novels set in London during this time frame, I feel like I learned quite a lot. It was interesting to see how the justice system affected people of different classes, especially the Duke who is among the highest ranking of all. Add the fact that Lenox is but a commoner, and we have some intriguing interactions to be sure. The pacing moves along nicely but the author does not skip on the building of his characters. The dialog seemed quite realistic to me and while it assisted the plot along, it was also humorous in spots which made this an even more enjoyable read.
Bottom line is that this was a fun book to read, with an interesting historical mystery or three to keep the reader engaged. And I have a new author to add to my reading future, one that already has a head start in making the top tier.
Highly recommended.
March 2, 2019
I do enjoy the Charles Lenox stories and consistently read these books. The atmosphere and characters are beautifully drawn. This installment was very entertaining, but there were times that I was abruptly pulled out of the narrative. For example, there was a reference to a green banker's lamp. My mind immediately began wondering what a green banker's lamp was like before electricity and, of course, a quick Wikipedia search confirmed these lamps were not invented until 1909. That's a problem for a book set in the 1850s. Another example, at one point, Lady Jane refers to "Violet" but it should actually be "Effie." Additionally, there are the numerous word histories, which I find genuinely interesting. However, they immediately draw my attention away from the character of Charles Lenox and scream the voice of the well-educated author, Charles Finch. Finally, the last few sentences of the book switch to the POV of Edmund after a consistent Charles POV throughout the book. While this POV reveals a charming truth about Edmund looking out for his brother, the switch is abrupt. This book is a well-written book, but it needed better editing.
February 14, 2019
I’m a big Charles Finch fan, and this, the second prequel in the Charles Lenox series, is a very good addition! Finch’s language is measured and stately, and matches Lenox’s seriousness well. The book is full of the unexpected love of families, the peculiarity of the British aristocracy, and the mystery of William Shakespeare.
Lenox is a young detective, long before his relationship with Lady Jane develops beyond friendship, and he is brought in by a powerful duke to find a missing painting. In the process, he sets in train a number of themes that will play out in further novels.
I enjoyed the introduction of historical characters in cameo parts (Audubon, Darwin, Harriet Beecher Stowe) as a device for setting Lenox in his correct time and place.
Although I’m enjoying the prequels, I’m hoping that Finch returns to the main story soon and continues the development of Lenox and Lady Jane's story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lenox is a young detective, long before his relationship with Lady Jane develops beyond friendship, and he is brought in by a powerful duke to find a missing painting. In the process, he sets in train a number of themes that will play out in further novels.
I enjoyed the introduction of historical characters in cameo parts (Audubon, Darwin, Harriet Beecher Stowe) as a device for setting Lenox in his correct time and place.
Although I’m enjoying the prequels, I’m hoping that Finch returns to the main story soon and continues the development of Lenox and Lady Jane's story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 19, 2019
The arrival of a new Charles Lenox book is always a day to be treasured. The creation of Charles Finch, Lenox is an aristocrat, a former Member of Parliament, and a private detective. The books are set in Victorian London, and so far there hasn’t been a dud in the bunch; this book being no exception.
“The Vanishing Man” is a prequel to the main series, and it is excellent. Charles may be young, but he is just as clever and perspicacious as in his later life, although of course his life experience is lesser. He is trying to become a private detective, although he is unsure what to call it. Called upon by the Duke of Dorset to solve a theft, Lenox gets involved in an exciting, convoluted situation. I don’t like spoilers, so I am not going to give any, suffice it to say that it is very hard to put down this book.
I have enjoyed the entire series of Lenox books, and I am enjoying the prequels, of which this is the second of a planned trilogy. I highly recommend this book, and I am looking forward to the third one.
“The Vanishing Man” is a prequel to the main series, and it is excellent. Charles may be young, but he is just as clever and perspicacious as in his later life, although of course his life experience is lesser. He is trying to become a private detective, although he is unsure what to call it. Called upon by the Duke of Dorset to solve a theft, Lenox gets involved in an exciting, convoluted situation. I don’t like spoilers, so I am not going to give any, suffice it to say that it is very hard to put down this book.
I have enjoyed the entire series of Lenox books, and I am enjoying the prequels, of which this is the second of a planned trilogy. I highly recommend this book, and I am looking forward to the third one.
August 3, 2024
I really enjoyed this one! It was a mix of Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie in the best way. Lenox is a fascinating, funny, entertaining character, and Lady Jane was as delightful as she was elegant. Graham was loyal and warm, and every character had their place. A great, old-fashioned mystery.
February 21, 2019
He just keeps getting BETTER.
I've loved Charles Lenox from the very beginning, but each book Finch writes endears him to me a little more. Not only are the characters delightful and complex, but the plot is wonderfully researched and exposed tantalizingly.
The addition of cousin Lancelot was brilliant and in my opinion, chapter nineteen of The Vanishing Man is the best stuff Charles Finch has ever written....and that's saying something!
I learned more about Shakespeare, order of royal lineage, and Bedlam in one book than I have in many years.
Congratulations, Charles Finch!
Book of the year!
I've loved Charles Lenox from the very beginning, but each book Finch writes endears him to me a little more. Not only are the characters delightful and complex, but the plot is wonderfully researched and exposed tantalizingly.
The addition of cousin Lancelot was brilliant and in my opinion, chapter nineteen of The Vanishing Man is the best stuff Charles Finch has ever written....and that's saying something!
I learned more about Shakespeare, order of royal lineage, and Bedlam in one book than I have in many years.
Congratulations, Charles Finch!
Book of the year!
March 4, 2019
A few years back I read perhaps three or four Charles Lenox mysteries, the ones taking place in the 1860s, when Charles was already established as an upper-class private detective. Author Finch now is providing us with some prequels set in the 1850s, in which a younger Lenox is trying to establish himself as a sleuth for hire. This is the second one, following THE WOMAN IN THE WATER, which I confess to not having read.
Here we find Charles hired by the Duke of Dorset to recover a painting of one of his ancestors which had been stolen from his home. Strangely enough, Charles notes that the stolen painting, which was of little value or import, had been hanging next to what seems to be a very valuable, old, and seemingly authentic painting of William Shakespeare. This leads to an interesting case for Lenox, with a kidnapping, another attempted theft, a murder, and the search for a previously unknown play by Shakespeare.
We have a cast of characters including those in Charles' private life, such as his neighbor Lady Jane, his brother Edmund, his valet Graham, and his amusing 12-year-old cousin who is staying with him at the moment, and those involved in the case, such as the duke and various members of his family and household staff, a rather mysterious "finder" named Bonden, who seems to be able to solve mysteries and find missing things just by staying in one spot and observing everything for hours, and various other tertiaries to round out this Victorian mystery.
The Lenox mysteries are all good period pieces but they are also very much in the cozy style. The reader finds himself safely in the upper-class milieu for the most part with very little of the ugly, seamy side of life or poverty and struggle of the middle and lower classes to be found. You feel safe and comfy even while reading about murderers and thieves.
In addition to the cozy, comfortable feel of a Lenox mystery, there is also author Finch's usual addition of "educational" tidbits for the reader. This time he throws in ranking in the peerage, history of Bedlam Hospital, some bits about the Tower of London and about the Great Fire, origin of words and phrases such as traffic jam, clue, cottages, and speculation about William Shakespeare, who is still, to this day, somewhat of a mystery figure.
One more thing I will mention. I have enjoyed past Charles Lenox books set in the 1860s, but mainly for the period detail and for the mystery itself. Protagonist Lenox always came across as bland, boring and staid, and his relationships, especially that with Lady Jane, a bit phlegmatic. In this book, Lenox seems more personable, with a rather wry sense of humor. I especially enjoyed his relationship with 12-year-old Lancelot. I guess either I wasn't reading the previous books carefully enough or author Finch has improved his main character's personality.
Here we find Charles hired by the Duke of Dorset to recover a painting of one of his ancestors which had been stolen from his home. Strangely enough, Charles notes that the stolen painting, which was of little value or import, had been hanging next to what seems to be a very valuable, old, and seemingly authentic painting of William Shakespeare. This leads to an interesting case for Lenox, with a kidnapping, another attempted theft, a murder, and the search for a previously unknown play by Shakespeare.
We have a cast of characters including those in Charles' private life, such as his neighbor Lady Jane, his brother Edmund, his valet Graham, and his amusing 12-year-old cousin who is staying with him at the moment, and those involved in the case, such as the duke and various members of his family and household staff, a rather mysterious "finder" named Bonden, who seems to be able to solve mysteries and find missing things just by staying in one spot and observing everything for hours, and various other tertiaries to round out this Victorian mystery.
The Lenox mysteries are all good period pieces but they are also very much in the cozy style. The reader finds himself safely in the upper-class milieu for the most part with very little of the ugly, seamy side of life or poverty and struggle of the middle and lower classes to be found. You feel safe and comfy even while reading about murderers and thieves.
In addition to the cozy, comfortable feel of a Lenox mystery, there is also author Finch's usual addition of "educational" tidbits for the reader. This time he throws in ranking in the peerage, history of Bedlam Hospital, some bits about the Tower of London and about the Great Fire, origin of words and phrases such as traffic jam, clue, cottages, and speculation about William Shakespeare, who is still, to this day, somewhat of a mystery figure.
One more thing I will mention. I have enjoyed past Charles Lenox books set in the 1860s, but mainly for the period detail and for the mystery itself. Protagonist Lenox always came across as bland, boring and staid, and his relationships, especially that with Lady Jane, a bit phlegmatic. In this book, Lenox seems more personable, with a rather wry sense of humor. I especially enjoyed his relationship with 12-year-old Lancelot. I guess either I wasn't reading the previous books carefully enough or author Finch has improved his main character's personality.
January 21, 2019
Much as I like Charles Lenox and his adventures, in reading The Vanishing Man I recall why I don’t necessarily enjoy prequels. Faithful readers of the books by Charles Finch know what has happened in the lives of Lenox, his next-door neighbor Jane Grey, and even Graham, his faithful “man” and friend. Thus, any fictional deep sighs or “'woe is ‘mes’” by the book’s protagonist seem quite disingenuous. And boy, are there plenty of those in this book. Indeed, one may wonder why Charles Finch decided to take this approach. Perhaps to avoid the “spoiler syndrome” if a new reader picks up this book. Perhaps the lady reviewer doth protest too much. Oh, did I just mis-quote Shakespeare? You’ll know why, as I proceed.
Here, we have Charles still struggling as a “private detective.” Charles is on a case: someone has stolen a painting from the Duke of Dorset. The painting itself is not important, the Duke says; the identity of the thief is. What wasn’t taken was the painting next to it; supposedly, according to the author, that is, the only extant portrait of William Shakespeare (okay, cue mighty suspension of disbelief here). Later -- much later, it takes this book a long while to get going -- there comes a shooting, and the Duke confesses to it. And readers find out about a secret that has been passed down in the Duke’s family for generations, from father to son. The Duke needs Lennox’s help to fix this mess, and mess it is, the plot is awfully quirky and convoluted; remember I mentioned that “suspension of disbelief” thing, earlier? Eventually, we have a resolution, of course, albeit a surprising one, in keeping with the surprising plot. Although perhaps not so surprising, because how else can it end? Shakespeare summed it up rather well: “This was the most unkindest cut of all.”
Along the way there’s new and interesting people to meet, and backstories and side stories. Herein is the pleasure of the book; the characters are delineated, made real. They populate Charles’s world as living people, even the Duke’s family, who are unappealing, hard to take in then and almost impossible to understand today. Charles is also learning how to be a detective in this book, in subtle ways that will be familiar to readers of modern detective stories. Although his self-recriminations get somewhat tedious; remember what I said about this being a prequel. At least he realizes he has a gift. “We know what we are but know not what we may be.” Hamlet said that, and unfortunately, look what happened to him. But Charles Lennox has a brighter future in store.
Thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for a copy of this book, in exchange for this review.
Here, we have Charles still struggling as a “private detective.” Charles is on a case: someone has stolen a painting from the Duke of Dorset. The painting itself is not important, the Duke says; the identity of the thief is. What wasn’t taken was the painting next to it; supposedly, according to the author, that is, the only extant portrait of William Shakespeare (okay, cue mighty suspension of disbelief here). Later -- much later, it takes this book a long while to get going -- there comes a shooting, and the Duke confesses to it. And readers find out about a secret that has been passed down in the Duke’s family for generations, from father to son. The Duke needs Lennox’s help to fix this mess, and mess it is, the plot is awfully quirky and convoluted; remember I mentioned that “suspension of disbelief” thing, earlier? Eventually, we have a resolution, of course, albeit a surprising one, in keeping with the surprising plot. Although perhaps not so surprising, because how else can it end? Shakespeare summed it up rather well: “This was the most unkindest cut of all.”
Along the way there’s new and interesting people to meet, and backstories and side stories. Herein is the pleasure of the book; the characters are delineated, made real. They populate Charles’s world as living people, even the Duke’s family, who are unappealing, hard to take in then and almost impossible to understand today. Charles is also learning how to be a detective in this book, in subtle ways that will be familiar to readers of modern detective stories. Although his self-recriminations get somewhat tedious; remember what I said about this being a prequel. At least he realizes he has a gift. “We know what we are but know not what we may be.” Hamlet said that, and unfortunately, look what happened to him. But Charles Lennox has a brighter future in store.
Thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for a copy of this book, in exchange for this review.
April 7, 2019
First Sentence: Once a month or so, just to keep his hand in the game, Charles Lennox liked to go shopping with his friend Lady Jane Grey.
Charles Lennox had success with his first outing as a Private Enquiry Agent and is now being called on by The Duke of Dorset to investigate the theft of a painting. But it's not what was taken which is the mystery, but what was not; a painting much more valuable. Lenox fear of the thief realizing the mistake and returning seems to be realized when a murder occurs. But are the paintings the real objects of attention, or is there something more precious at stake?
Whether it is a series one has long read, or one to which someone is new, being introduced to the characters from their very start establishes a link to them and almost an intimacy of friendship. It is that which Finch has accomplished through the prequels, this being the second, he has written. Finch brings the characters to life, whether they are directly involved in the mystery, or are part of Lenox's personal life. How can one not like a protagonist who carries with him a small book of Shakespeare's quotations? For those who love Shakespeare, this is a wonderful story, indeed.
Finch paints an excellent picture of the period. From an explanation of noble titles down to a visit to Bedlam, we are provided a vivid sense of the time. And what a sad commentary of the time it is that even the daughter of a Duke would be deemed unlikely to marry had she not so done by the age of 30. The small details of life, custom, and society are fascinating. Imagine mail being delivered seven times a day, seven days a week.
The resolution of one mystery is well deduced, providing a nice twist and a loopback in the story to a very interesting character. However, it is the larger mystery behind the original one which is most intriguing. What a completely tantalizing resolution there is, and one of nearly divine retribution, albeit a rather sad ending for those involved. Yet, once the criminal is identified, one discovers a motive that is as old as time.
"The Vanishing Man" is a wonderfully done trip back in time. It is filled with excellent characters, fascinating information, and a resolution related to the cost of pride.
THE VANISHING MAN (HistMys-Charles Lenox-England-1853) – VG+
Finch, Charles – 12th in series; 2nd Prequel
Minotaur Books – February 2019
Charles Lennox had success with his first outing as a Private Enquiry Agent and is now being called on by The Duke of Dorset to investigate the theft of a painting. But it's not what was taken which is the mystery, but what was not; a painting much more valuable. Lenox fear of the thief realizing the mistake and returning seems to be realized when a murder occurs. But are the paintings the real objects of attention, or is there something more precious at stake?
Whether it is a series one has long read, or one to which someone is new, being introduced to the characters from their very start establishes a link to them and almost an intimacy of friendship. It is that which Finch has accomplished through the prequels, this being the second, he has written. Finch brings the characters to life, whether they are directly involved in the mystery, or are part of Lenox's personal life. How can one not like a protagonist who carries with him a small book of Shakespeare's quotations? For those who love Shakespeare, this is a wonderful story, indeed.
Finch paints an excellent picture of the period. From an explanation of noble titles down to a visit to Bedlam, we are provided a vivid sense of the time. And what a sad commentary of the time it is that even the daughter of a Duke would be deemed unlikely to marry had she not so done by the age of 30. The small details of life, custom, and society are fascinating. Imagine mail being delivered seven times a day, seven days a week.
The resolution of one mystery is well deduced, providing a nice twist and a loopback in the story to a very interesting character. However, it is the larger mystery behind the original one which is most intriguing. What a completely tantalizing resolution there is, and one of nearly divine retribution, albeit a rather sad ending for those involved. Yet, once the criminal is identified, one discovers a motive that is as old as time.
"The Vanishing Man" is a wonderfully done trip back in time. It is filled with excellent characters, fascinating information, and a resolution related to the cost of pride.
THE VANISHING MAN (HistMys-Charles Lenox-England-1853) – VG+
Finch, Charles – 12th in series; 2nd Prequel
Minotaur Books – February 2019
October 8, 2019
In this prequel to the series, Charles Lenox is asked by a very influential duke to find a stolen portrait. This case leads Charles to a treasure hunt: the family has been entrusted with a missing Shakespeare play. It is a huge secret that has been in the family for generations, and the duke is worried that someone has possession of the clues as to the play's whereabouts. While Charles searches for the portrait, a man connected to the case is killed, and he must add that to the list of problems concerning the whole unseemly matter. This series is not only the story of a young man trying to find his own way in world by using his unique talent for solving mysteries. It also conveys a vivid sense of place and of Victorian England: the deference to the nobility, busy London carriage traffic, the desperation of the poor; the tower that will house Big Ben is just being built. It also contains one of the sweetest comments on motherhood that I have ever read when he is describing his mother: "She gave Charles the kind of hug only a mother can give, in which part of her love passes into a person, truly and physically, a press of the body holding in its few seconds a history of tenderness that dates to the time when the two of you were one." Charles Lenox does not suffer fools gladly, yet he is well-bred and must show respect to "his betters" even when he knows they are not. He perseveres, even when it may mean a blow to his social standing. At one point, he has his doubts about whether he should be involved in detective work. Then he realizes it's what he was meant to do.
December 15, 2020
All of the Lenox novels are generally charming, and keep the readers that have been hooked waiting for the next installment. This one falls a bit short for me, with a featured story that never really grabbed me, and a couple distracting typos. The usual suspects are here, with the addition of Bonden, the coolest character since Dallington. Dallington is sadly sidelined in the prequels, too young to play a role yet, although he did make an appearance as a toddler in Woman in the Water. A lesser Finch novel is still a better entertainment than most new crime fiction, so by all means read it. Just not one of my favorites.
Read
July 7, 2022I have read another book or two in this series. Charles Lenox is a Victorian sleuth, the first or one of the first private investigators of this time. He is high born and cannot be a policeman or be paid for his investigations because of the impact on his and his family’s reputations, so he operates on a sort of a favours system that I don’t really understand.
But hiring practices aside, Charles Lenox is an interesting protagonist, finding his way into a new profession and figuring out the ropes and new investigative techniques from various different circumstances, books, and people. In this case, he is searching for the Duke’s stolen painting, which is the key to a much larger mystery. Lenox has to unravel the various half-truths and hints to figure out what is really going on, since the Duke doesn’t actually seem interested in recovering the painting.
But hiring practices aside, Charles Lenox is an interesting protagonist, finding his way into a new profession and figuring out the ropes and new investigative techniques from various different circumstances, books, and people. In this case, he is searching for the Duke’s stolen painting, which is the key to a much larger mystery. Lenox has to unravel the various half-truths and hints to figure out what is really going on, since the Duke doesn’t actually seem interested in recovering the painting.
May 9, 2019
I was set on 4 stars until the brotherly love changed my mind ;D
July 6, 2021
This is the second book of three that is a prequel to the main series. I have fresh eyes as I had not read this author prior to book #.01 . Very much enjoyed the mystery and that loose ends don't always get tied up as we would wish. That justice is not always fair. The characters are well thought out and Lancelot was a gem. A very enjoyable read and already have the next book on order.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 526 reviews