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A Christmas Revelation
A daring rescue reveals the true meaning of Christmas... The queen of Victorian crime, New York Times bestselling author Anne Perry returns with the 16th novella in her festive crime series. Christmas is coming and the streets of London are full of festive cheer. As young Worm returns to his home at the Portpool Lane clinic, he encounters the most beautiful woman he has ever seen and, spellbound, he follows her until she is dragged away by two evil-looking men. Convinced that she is in grave danger, Worm begs Squeaky Robinson to help him track her down. But Elouise is embroiled with dangerous criminals who want information that only she can tell. They will stop at nothing to get what they want and, with Christmas day fast approaching, Worm and Squeaky must conjure up a daring plan to help Elouise before it is too late. Praise for Anne Perry's Christmas 'A bite-sized mystery that could be fitted in after your Christmas lunch' Daily Telegraph
176 pages, Paperback
First published November 6, 2018
439 people are currently reading
1952 people want to read
About the author
Anne Perry
362 books3,374 followersAnne Perry, born Juliet Hulme in England, lived in Scotland most of her life after serving five years in prison for murder (in New Zealand). A beloved mystery authoress, she is best known for her Thomas Pitt and William Monk series.
Her first novel, "The Cater Street Hangman", was published in 1979. Her works extend to several categories of genre fiction, including historical mysteries. Many of them feature recurring characters, most importantly Thomas Pitt and amnesiac private investigator William Monk, who first appeared in 1990, "The Face Of A Stranger".
Her story "Heroes," from the 1999 anthology Murder And Obsession, won the 2001 Edgar Award For Best Short Story. She was included as an entry in Ben Peek's Twenty-Six Lies / One Truth, a novel exploring the nature of truth in literature.
Series contributed to:
. Crime Through Time
. Perfectly Criminal
. Malice Domestic
. The World's Finest Mystery And Crime Stories
. Transgressions
. The Year's Finest Crime And Mystery Stories
Her first novel, "The Cater Street Hangman", was published in 1979. Her works extend to several categories of genre fiction, including historical mysteries. Many of them feature recurring characters, most importantly Thomas Pitt and amnesiac private investigator William Monk, who first appeared in 1990, "The Face Of A Stranger".
Her story "Heroes," from the 1999 anthology Murder And Obsession, won the 2001 Edgar Award For Best Short Story. She was included as an entry in Ben Peek's Twenty-Six Lies / One Truth, a novel exploring the nature of truth in literature.
Series contributed to:
. Crime Through Time
. Perfectly Criminal
. Malice Domestic
. The World's Finest Mystery And Crime Stories
. Transgressions
. The Year's Finest Crime And Mystery Stories
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 333 reviews
December 8, 2018
A Christmas novella in this popular series by Anne Perry featuring Worm, an orphaned nine year urchin, Eloise, a woman being threatened by two ruthless men and Squeeky, a rough man with a kind heart who wants to make Christmas special for Worm and the abused women in the clinic where he works. A snapshot of a Victorian Christmas amongst London's working class with a bit of a mystery to be solved.
November 9, 2018
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
A CHRISTMAS REVELATION by Anne Perry is an intriguing Victorian era Christmas novella with heart. This novella is written featuring secondary characters from Ms. Perry’s Monk series, the realism of the seamier side of Victorian London and a mystery to be solved. This Christmas story can easily be read as a standalone.
Nine-year-old urchin, Worm lives at the Portpool Lane clinic. He witnesses a beautiful blond haired woman being abducted by two men by force on the streets of London. When he returns to the clinic, he seeks the help of Squeaky, the clinic’s bookkeeper and former brothel owner. Squeaky knows better than to get involved in others’ business, but he hates to disappoint Worm.
As Worm and Squeaky learn more of the abducted woman and the mystery surrounding her, Ms. Perry intertwines the charming Victorian Christmas stories and traditions that Squeaky is sharing with Worm. These two unlikely rescuers work to help the blond haired woman and hopefully celebrate Worm’s first real Christmas with all their friends at Portpool Lane clinic.
This is a heartwarming Victorian Christmas novella that keeps the reader turning the pages to solve the mystery around the blond woman. Squeaky is a wonderfully flawed and realistic character. Worm is loving and caring even after having spent his early years homeless on the streets. I loved his worry for the blond woman and his amazement at the Christmas traditions. I enjoyed this addition to Squeaky and Worm’s stories.
Thanks very much to Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eArc.
A CHRISTMAS REVELATION by Anne Perry is an intriguing Victorian era Christmas novella with heart. This novella is written featuring secondary characters from Ms. Perry’s Monk series, the realism of the seamier side of Victorian London and a mystery to be solved. This Christmas story can easily be read as a standalone.
Nine-year-old urchin, Worm lives at the Portpool Lane clinic. He witnesses a beautiful blond haired woman being abducted by two men by force on the streets of London. When he returns to the clinic, he seeks the help of Squeaky, the clinic’s bookkeeper and former brothel owner. Squeaky knows better than to get involved in others’ business, but he hates to disappoint Worm.
As Worm and Squeaky learn more of the abducted woman and the mystery surrounding her, Ms. Perry intertwines the charming Victorian Christmas stories and traditions that Squeaky is sharing with Worm. These two unlikely rescuers work to help the blond haired woman and hopefully celebrate Worm’s first real Christmas with all their friends at Portpool Lane clinic.
This is a heartwarming Victorian Christmas novella that keeps the reader turning the pages to solve the mystery around the blond woman. Squeaky is a wonderfully flawed and realistic character. Worm is loving and caring even after having spent his early years homeless on the streets. I loved his worry for the blond woman and his amazement at the Christmas traditions. I enjoyed this addition to Squeaky and Worm’s stories.
Thanks very much to Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eArc.
December 4, 2018
"A Christmas Revelation" is the 16th Christmas novel written by Anne Perry. This is my first read out of the collection; it is a stand-alone mystery with an underlying message. A tale well-told; not too sentimental nor too preachy.
The two central characters are 9-year-old Warren, more often called Worm, an orphan of the streets of 19th century London and his co-worker/reluctant mentor, Squeaky. Squeaky is a middle-aged man who now keeps the books for a women's shelter; in past years, he was a pimp.
These two touch each other's lives in small and large ways -- ways that neither of them are immediately aware, but a bond has grown between them. This bond only becomes stronger when Worm is determined to give aid to a woman he saw on the street who appears to have been taken against her will.
Both of these characters tug at your heartstrings as they make plans to rescue "Worm's woman," as the bonds between the two strengthen and each develops new insights into themselves and each other.
But don't forget the mystery, which is centered around the yet-unknown woman.
A good read for Christmas -- or any time of the year.
The two central characters are 9-year-old Warren, more often called Worm, an orphan of the streets of 19th century London and his co-worker/reluctant mentor, Squeaky. Squeaky is a middle-aged man who now keeps the books for a women's shelter; in past years, he was a pimp.
These two touch each other's lives in small and large ways -- ways that neither of them are immediately aware, but a bond has grown between them. This bond only becomes stronger when Worm is determined to give aid to a woman he saw on the street who appears to have been taken against her will.
Both of these characters tug at your heartstrings as they make plans to rescue "Worm's woman," as the bonds between the two strengthen and each develops new insights into themselves and each other.
But don't forget the mystery, which is centered around the yet-unknown woman.
A good read for Christmas -- or any time of the year.
December 3, 2023
Light holiday reading.
October 21, 2018
Combining the nostalgia of Victorian Era Christmas and the grit and grime of the author's usual historical mystery world, readers of the authors' regular mystery series are treated to a holiday mystery novella each year.
In A Christmas Revelation, sixteenth of the Christmas stories collection, Worm and Squeaky, minor characters from the William Monk series, get their time to shine.
Worm, a waif from the streets, has no understanding of Christmas, and little understanding about family. Against the odds, he still has a little child-like belief left in goodness. He spots a woman he sees as a pretty angel get dragged away off a street and he wants to help her. He pulls in old, cantankerous and barely reformed Squeaky Robinson to be his reluctant partner.
I felt sad, but also slightly amused as tough ex-crook and someone who grew up without family trying to explain Christmas to Worm as they go about decorating the Portpool Lane clinic and work to find the woman and discover what troubles her.
Worm watches and tries to learn from those around him. He might be a child, but he has an eye for truth and falsehood and those who are truly good from those who pretend. He enjoys Squeaky's stories and appreciates that he's willing to help Worm on his quest. Meanwhile, this holiday mission of Worm's drudges up too many bad or empty memories for Squeaky and he reflects back on where his life has been and what he thinks about the reformed life he lives now. He knows he went wrong through most of his past, but now, he is able to use his shady connections to help Worm even though he fears, and rightly so, that Worm's 'lady' is not as good as her smile and that her trouble is of her own making.
The tale combines long introspective moments set against the era's Christmas time, steady tracking of clues, and an exciting grand finale. I enjoyed it, but those introspective moments got long at times. The ending did make up for a lot of that, though. I enjoyed getting to know Worm and Squeaky better, particularly Squeaky who has been a fixture in the William Monk series for quite some time.
It was a fast-read and an engaging historical mystery that fans of the author and her series will appreciate while newcomers can get a heartwarming and thoughtful Christmas mystery on the dark streets of London.
I received this book from Net galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
In A Christmas Revelation, sixteenth of the Christmas stories collection, Worm and Squeaky, minor characters from the William Monk series, get their time to shine.
Worm, a waif from the streets, has no understanding of Christmas, and little understanding about family. Against the odds, he still has a little child-like belief left in goodness. He spots a woman he sees as a pretty angel get dragged away off a street and he wants to help her. He pulls in old, cantankerous and barely reformed Squeaky Robinson to be his reluctant partner.
I felt sad, but also slightly amused as tough ex-crook and someone who grew up without family trying to explain Christmas to Worm as they go about decorating the Portpool Lane clinic and work to find the woman and discover what troubles her.
Worm watches and tries to learn from those around him. He might be a child, but he has an eye for truth and falsehood and those who are truly good from those who pretend. He enjoys Squeaky's stories and appreciates that he's willing to help Worm on his quest. Meanwhile, this holiday mission of Worm's drudges up too many bad or empty memories for Squeaky and he reflects back on where his life has been and what he thinks about the reformed life he lives now. He knows he went wrong through most of his past, but now, he is able to use his shady connections to help Worm even though he fears, and rightly so, that Worm's 'lady' is not as good as her smile and that her trouble is of her own making.
The tale combines long introspective moments set against the era's Christmas time, steady tracking of clues, and an exciting grand finale. I enjoyed it, but those introspective moments got long at times. The ending did make up for a lot of that, though. I enjoyed getting to know Worm and Squeaky better, particularly Squeaky who has been a fixture in the William Monk series for quite some time.
It was a fast-read and an engaging historical mystery that fans of the author and her series will appreciate while newcomers can get a heartwarming and thoughtful Christmas mystery on the dark streets of London.
I received this book from Net galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2019
“He supposed that was what love was: accepting someone the way they were.” Anne Perry’s A Christmas Revelation (Christmas Stories #16) is a sweet short Victorian Christmas story with two of the most delightful ‘reformed’ characters that I have encountered in a long time. Worm, a “river urchin living on the banks of the Thames” is nine years old and now has a job in a clinic in Portpool Lane, Hester Monk’s clinic. Worm, as his parents were killed when he was a baby, has been on his own a long time, but he, fortunately, has become a member of a “makeshift family” in the Portpool Lane clinic which includes a lovely and kind volunteer, Miss Claudine Burroughs, and Squeaky Robinson, a grouchy old bookkeeper, and they are about to celebrate a family-style Christmas. Something Worm has never done. As Christmas approaches, Worm sees a ‘beautiful woman’ kidnapped, and he runs to Squeaky to ask for his help to save Worm’s vision of an angel. Squeaky knows this could be complicated and dangerous, but he cares what Worm thinks of him, and he says yes. The author presents a grand story to save Worm’s ‘beautiful woman’. She illustrates the three main characters feelings and emotions so well that the reader, at least this reader, was drawn right into the adventure, experiencing everything the characters do including the yummy Christmas dinner and the warm Christmas spirit! 4.5-5 stars.
October 20, 2019
“A Christmas Revelation” is the 16th novella in the ‘Christmas Stories’ series written by Anne Perry.
Each novella is based on the historical murder mystery or detective fiction genre and often feature a number of recurring characters.
I happily enjoyed reading this book and the nice thing is, they can be read in one sitting where you totally immerse yourself in the intriguing and genuinely endearing characters and their story. ‘Worm’ and ‘Squeaky’, the two main people in “A Christmas Revelation” were truly mesmerising and the way Squeaky took control of Worms concerns, regarding a ‘lady with light in her hair’ who was in potential danger, was just wonderful.
All in all an easy and entertaining read with a Christmas message at its heart, that I thoroughly enjoyed reading and I would be happy to recommend this author and her series of Christmas Stories.
3.5 stars
Each novella is based on the historical murder mystery or detective fiction genre and often feature a number of recurring characters.
I happily enjoyed reading this book and the nice thing is, they can be read in one sitting where you totally immerse yourself in the intriguing and genuinely endearing characters and their story. ‘Worm’ and ‘Squeaky’, the two main people in “A Christmas Revelation” were truly mesmerising and the way Squeaky took control of Worms concerns, regarding a ‘lady with light in her hair’ who was in potential danger, was just wonderful.
All in all an easy and entertaining read with a Christmas message at its heart, that I thoroughly enjoyed reading and I would be happy to recommend this author and her series of Christmas Stories.
3.5 stars
November 25, 2018
I admit that I'm usually much more impressed by Anne Perry's Victorian mysteries, but authors can't always be brilliant. I did hope for better when I requested A Christmas Revelation from Net Galley.
What stood out about this Christmas mystery is that it dealt with ordinary working class people. Perry has a tendency to focus on the perspectives of aristocrats and officialdom. I applaud her for thinking that there was a story worth telling in the lives of an accountant for a clinic catering to street prostitutes called Squeaky and a street urchin named Worm that he'd adopted.
The mystery itself seemed rather routine to me. It was okay.
For my complete review see https://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/2...
What stood out about this Christmas mystery is that it dealt with ordinary working class people. Perry has a tendency to focus on the perspectives of aristocrats and officialdom. I applaud her for thinking that there was a story worth telling in the lives of an accountant for a clinic catering to street prostitutes called Squeaky and a street urchin named Worm that he'd adopted.
The mystery itself seemed rather routine to me. It was okay.
For my complete review see https://shomeretmasked.blogspot.com/2...
November 3, 2018
3.5 stars
Anne Perry writes this series of Christmas novellas that are loosely connected to her regular series. This one is centered at the clinic where Hester Monk works and concerns the bookkeeper and a young, stray boy, Worm. The boy sees a woman who seems kindly but is yet in distress. He enlists Squeaky, the bookkeeper, to find her and help her. This is the story of that search and how it ties into a famous gold robbery.
My favorite part of this book was the historical Christmas celebration and Worm's first Christmas. A lovely, uplifting Christmas story that gets you ready for the holiday.
Anne Perry writes this series of Christmas novellas that are loosely connected to her regular series. This one is centered at the clinic where Hester Monk works and concerns the bookkeeper and a young, stray boy, Worm. The boy sees a woman who seems kindly but is yet in distress. He enlists Squeaky, the bookkeeper, to find her and help her. This is the story of that search and how it ties into a famous gold robbery.
My favorite part of this book was the historical Christmas celebration and Worm's first Christmas. A lovely, uplifting Christmas story that gets you ready for the holiday.
July 24, 2019
A charming Christmas tale set in Victorian-era London featuring an urchin named Worm and a somewhat reformed former brothel owner named Squeaky. The Christmas story is recounted with some clarity by Squeaky to help prepare Worm for the big Christmas celebration. They both become involved in a mystery as they make their preparations. The book was too short for there to be any interesting plot twists on the mystery side. A good read to pair with a cup of hot chocolate on a wintry December day.
December 7, 2020
Dans ce roman court, l'esprit de Noël est bien présent (ce qui n'est pas souvent le cas) ! Anne Perry nous rappelle l'essentiel des fêtes à travers le regard de Worm, cet orphelin qui a échappé à la rue pour vivre chez Squeaky Robinson dont le passé sulfureux se découvre dans la série Monk. Le gamin, qui ignore tout des traditions et de la signification de Noël, écoute avec curiosité les explications parfois évasives de son bienfaiteur.
Toutefois, Worm a également en tête une scène étrange à laquelle il a assisté au moment de traîner dans le quartier - une demoiselle blonde et charmante aurait été emmenée de force par deux individus peu commodes. Il harcèle Squeaky pour retrouver sa trace et s'assurer que tout va bien.
Squeaky Robinson est attendrissant dans son rôle paternaliste. Il a vite compris qu'il ne fallait pas s'appesantir sur le sort de cette inconnue mais ne souhaite pas briser les espoirs de son jeune ami. Après quoi, c'est une histoire de cambriolage et de butin perdu, de chantage et de duperie. Une petite intrigue dont le suspense ne nous coupe pas le souffle. C'est surtout l'ambiance générale qui est notable - un Londres populaire et engourdi par le froid. Assez sympa, donc.
Et puis j'aime beaucoup le personnage de Squeaky Robinson (ancien tenancier de bordel reconverti en comptable dans une clinique pour demoiselles en détresse). On évoque beaucoup Miss Claudine et sir Oliver Rathbone aussi. Non, ce n'est pas un handicap de ne pas connaître la série Monk. L'intérêt du roman repose sur la relation très forte entre Worm & Squeaky et sur les messages subliminaux (bienveillance, entraide et amitié) qui font penser à Noël. Un bon rendez-vous parmi les nombreux Crimes de Noël qui ne sont pas toujours à la hauteur.
Toutefois, Worm a également en tête une scène étrange à laquelle il a assisté au moment de traîner dans le quartier - une demoiselle blonde et charmante aurait été emmenée de force par deux individus peu commodes. Il harcèle Squeaky pour retrouver sa trace et s'assurer que tout va bien.
Squeaky Robinson est attendrissant dans son rôle paternaliste. Il a vite compris qu'il ne fallait pas s'appesantir sur le sort de cette inconnue mais ne souhaite pas briser les espoirs de son jeune ami. Après quoi, c'est une histoire de cambriolage et de butin perdu, de chantage et de duperie. Une petite intrigue dont le suspense ne nous coupe pas le souffle. C'est surtout l'ambiance générale qui est notable - un Londres populaire et engourdi par le froid. Assez sympa, donc.
Et puis j'aime beaucoup le personnage de Squeaky Robinson (ancien tenancier de bordel reconverti en comptable dans une clinique pour demoiselles en détresse). On évoque beaucoup Miss Claudine et sir Oliver Rathbone aussi. Non, ce n'est pas un handicap de ne pas connaître la série Monk. L'intérêt du roman repose sur la relation très forte entre Worm & Squeaky et sur les messages subliminaux (bienveillance, entraide et amitié) qui font penser à Noël. Un bon rendez-vous parmi les nombreux Crimes de Noël qui ne sont pas toujours à la hauteur.
June 29, 2020
Overall a nice little mystery that captures the flavor of Victorian Christmas among poorer folk who don’t have family to spend it with. It’s focused on several folks who are side characters in her Monk series and who have had to find their own version of family with sympathetic coworkers.
The young woman Worm sees kidnapped isn’t someone he can forget easily, and he enlists Squeaky Robinson to help him track her down and make sure she isn’t hurt. But there’s much more to her story than they dreamed.
I was conflicted about the “meaning of the season” chat because, while it acknowledged a portion of the Christian origin of the season, it mixed it in with legend (having three wise men when the number isn’t specified) and so on, with a works-based application: “We need to all be better people to each other during this season.” So while there are mentions of Christian elements it isn’t a Christian message.
Content: Squeaky used to own a brothel but now has improved himself and is sorry he ever acted so callously to women. Infrequent profanity and fairly frequent swearing.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
The young woman Worm sees kidnapped isn’t someone he can forget easily, and he enlists Squeaky Robinson to help him track her down and make sure she isn’t hurt. But there’s much more to her story than they dreamed.
I was conflicted about the “meaning of the season” chat because, while it acknowledged a portion of the Christian origin of the season, it mixed it in with legend (having three wise men when the number isn’t specified) and so on, with a works-based application: “We need to all be better people to each other during this season.” So while there are mentions of Christian elements it isn’t a Christian message.
Content: Squeaky used to own a brothel but now has improved himself and is sorry he ever acted so callously to women. Infrequent profanity and fairly frequent swearing.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
October 28, 2018
Publication Date: 11/6/18
What a wonderfully poignant Christmas story. If you have read this author’s William Monk series, you will be familiar with most of the characters in this book. The story is a wonderfully written tale of redemption and caring at Christmas.
Since last summer, nine-year-old Worm (Warren) has been living and working at the clinic in Portpool Lane. The clinic was established to provide medical care, etc. for women on the streets. He’d always lived on the riverbank before someone rescued him. He doesn’t know if he ever had a father, but he does have vague memories of his mother.
Worm was out and about one morning and looked across the street at the most beautiful sight he’d ever seen. A woman who was all light, warmth, and softness. When a sunbeam came down from the sky and fell on her hair, it glowed like gold. Her smiles seemed to make everyone around her feel good. Then, there were two men who approached her, grabbed her and forced her away. Worm wanted to help her. He raced across the street and followed them as far as he could and then they disappeared. He needed help and he knew just who could either help him or tell him what he needed to do.
Squeaky Robinson will only admit to being somewhere in his sixties. He is the former owner of the two buildings that now house the Portpool Lane clinic. The houses were brothels when he owned them, and quite profitable. However, he’d found himself in a bit of serious legal trouble and made a deal to turn the houses over for the clinic and stay on as its bookkeeper. Secretly, he’s glad about that, but he’d never openly admit it.
Worm runs into Squeaky’s office and tells his tale of the beautiful lady. Squeaky tries to distract him by telling him tales of Christmas – mostly making it up as he goes along because – well – what does Squeaky know about Christmas. When the distraction doesn’t work, Squeaky knows that if he doesn’t help the boy, he’ll just go out on his own. This begins an adventure filled with bad guys, lovely ladies who are not what they seem, explosions and a joyous Christmas.
I hope you’ll give this lovely novella a read this Christmas.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
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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."
What a wonderfully poignant Christmas story. If you have read this author’s William Monk series, you will be familiar with most of the characters in this book. The story is a wonderfully written tale of redemption and caring at Christmas.
Since last summer, nine-year-old Worm (Warren) has been living and working at the clinic in Portpool Lane. The clinic was established to provide medical care, etc. for women on the streets. He’d always lived on the riverbank before someone rescued him. He doesn’t know if he ever had a father, but he does have vague memories of his mother.
Worm was out and about one morning and looked across the street at the most beautiful sight he’d ever seen. A woman who was all light, warmth, and softness. When a sunbeam came down from the sky and fell on her hair, it glowed like gold. Her smiles seemed to make everyone around her feel good. Then, there were two men who approached her, grabbed her and forced her away. Worm wanted to help her. He raced across the street and followed them as far as he could and then they disappeared. He needed help and he knew just who could either help him or tell him what he needed to do.
Squeaky Robinson will only admit to being somewhere in his sixties. He is the former owner of the two buildings that now house the Portpool Lane clinic. The houses were brothels when he owned them, and quite profitable. However, he’d found himself in a bit of serious legal trouble and made a deal to turn the houses over for the clinic and stay on as its bookkeeper. Secretly, he’s glad about that, but he’d never openly admit it.
Worm runs into Squeaky’s office and tells his tale of the beautiful lady. Squeaky tries to distract him by telling him tales of Christmas – mostly making it up as he goes along because – well – what does Squeaky know about Christmas. When the distraction doesn’t work, Squeaky knows that if he doesn’t help the boy, he’ll just go out on his own. This begins an adventure filled with bad guys, lovely ladies who are not what they seem, explosions and a joyous Christmas.
I hope you’ll give this lovely novella a read this Christmas.
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."
December 4, 2018
This is a historical fiction story; approx. 1876 - 1878 in England, outside of London. I liked the setting and the main character, young Worm, an orphan currently residing at a "home" for those less fortunate (mostly ladies of the evening) run by an aristocratic woman. The main characters are well written and seem true to the era this is taking place in. The setting is done well, so you get a feel for the time/space. It's an interesting story about young Worm (he's about 9) and this woman he sees at the market who seems to be taken against her will by two men. Worm's imagination runs wild about what might be happening. He involves an adult in his troubles, Squeaky, the accounts manager for the home where Worm stays. Squeaky wasn't always a reputable man. Squeaky tries to dissuade Worm from attempting to do anything about the woman they really know nothing about; by spinning stories about Christmas and what they should do, at the home, to celebrate it. So this story is mostly about this mysterious woman and a little bit about Christmas. All-in-all a very enjoyable story.
I received an uncorrected proof through Net Galley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received an uncorrected proof through Net Galley from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
January 1, 2023
Short and sweet. A Christmas Revelation offers a glimpse of street life in Victorian London. The book follows some of the side characters from the Monk series. It's not long enough for much character development, but maybe that's not necessary with characters that we've already been introduced to in other works. I especially enjoyed watching Squeaky make plans for a lovely, simple Christmas for those he cares about. Worth the read.
December 14, 2018
It was fine, but I felt like the short length didn't allow her to develop either the mystery or the Christmas component enough. I think I would like her Christmas stories that are about characters I know better. (I've read probably 20 of the Thomas and Charlotte Pitt books, but only the first William Monk.)
November 8, 2018
A charming Victorian mystery. Interesting characters and intriguing mystery. I will share my review soon.
December 23, 2018
A Christmas Revelation by Anne Perry is the sixteenth novel in The Christmas Stories series. Worm lives at the clinic on Portpool Lane thanks to the kindly Claudine Burroughs. Worm is out and about one day when he witnesses a lovely lady get kidnapped by two men. Worm runs back to the clinic and reports the problem to Squeaky Robinson, the clinic’s accountant. Squeaky tries to distract Worm with preparations for Christmas, but he is not to be deterred. The next morning, the pair set out to find where the kidnappers are hiding the woman. They soon find her and learn that she has the situation well in hand. Eloise has plans for bringing the two men to justice for more serious crimes, but she could use their help. With the assistance of Worm and Squeaky, Eloise sets out to bag the criminals and make sure their stockings are filled with coal by local prison warden.
A Christmas Revelation is part of The Christmas Stories series, but it can be read as a standalone (I have not read any other book by this author). I found A Christmas Revelation to be a charming story. Worm is grateful to have a warm, safe place to live plus food in his belly. He has never experienced Christmas before and Squeaky wants to make sure Worm gets the full experience. I enjoy the interactions between Worm and Squeaky. I especially liked the scene where Squeaky was trying to explain Jesus to Worm. When Squeaky could not distract Worm from Eloise’s dilemma, he sets out to help the young lad. Squeaky is familiar with the ways of the street and has connections that can help them. I liked seeing Squeaky and Worm grow closer. I also appreciated that Worm is developing a sense of wrong and right now that he is living at the clinic. A Christmas Revelation contains good writing and steady pacing. I felt the author captured the time period with the language, clothing, buildings, conveyances, and how Christmas is celebrated during that time. I liked the reference to how they needed to obtain a Christmas tree thanks to Queen Victoria’s husband. I did feel the mystery was slightly disappointing and there was a loose thread or two at the end. It is a short book with only 177 pages which makes it the perfect type of book to read on a cold afternoon. A Christmas Revelation is an enticing Victorian Christmas mystery.
A Christmas Revelation is part of The Christmas Stories series, but it can be read as a standalone (I have not read any other book by this author). I found A Christmas Revelation to be a charming story. Worm is grateful to have a warm, safe place to live plus food in his belly. He has never experienced Christmas before and Squeaky wants to make sure Worm gets the full experience. I enjoy the interactions between Worm and Squeaky. I especially liked the scene where Squeaky was trying to explain Jesus to Worm. When Squeaky could not distract Worm from Eloise’s dilemma, he sets out to help the young lad. Squeaky is familiar with the ways of the street and has connections that can help them. I liked seeing Squeaky and Worm grow closer. I also appreciated that Worm is developing a sense of wrong and right now that he is living at the clinic. A Christmas Revelation contains good writing and steady pacing. I felt the author captured the time period with the language, clothing, buildings, conveyances, and how Christmas is celebrated during that time. I liked the reference to how they needed to obtain a Christmas tree thanks to Queen Victoria’s husband. I did feel the mystery was slightly disappointing and there was a loose thread or two at the end. It is a short book with only 177 pages which makes it the perfect type of book to read on a cold afternoon. A Christmas Revelation is an enticing Victorian Christmas mystery.
September 29, 2018
Believe it or not, I know that Anne Perry has been around for several years and has a good list of books she has written, I have never read any of them. I thought that some time in the last few years I have been with Goodreads, I would have read one of them. But I could not find one that I have read!
I enjoyed this title very much as you can see from my book lists, I read many Christmas themed books!
This is a Christmas story taking place in 19th Century England. Everyone is waiting for Father Christmas, except for one young unchin boy named Worm who was living near the wharf for most of his 9 years. Just recently a woman named Claudine found him and brought him to the Hospital/clinic where she is working.
He befriends an accounant named Squeaky who takes him under his wing to help him understand everything about Christmas, ribbons, ornaments, bows, Wrapping Paper and the giving of Christmas presents to others.
While Worm gets into the Christmas spirit, Squeaky finds out that he might be in trouble. He has seen a young woman taken by two rough men against her will. Worm wants to help her get away from them, and they find out that the guys have killed her father and has stolen Gold and hidden it from these guys.
They make up a plan to follow them to the gold, but the building where it is, gets caught on fire.
It was interesting and I will read some more of Ms. Perry's books in the future. I also will tell my friends and family I have found a new Christmas story that is sure to please everyone.
I enjoyed this title very much as you can see from my book lists, I read many Christmas themed books!
This is a Christmas story taking place in 19th Century England. Everyone is waiting for Father Christmas, except for one young unchin boy named Worm who was living near the wharf for most of his 9 years. Just recently a woman named Claudine found him and brought him to the Hospital/clinic where she is working.
He befriends an accounant named Squeaky who takes him under his wing to help him understand everything about Christmas, ribbons, ornaments, bows, Wrapping Paper and the giving of Christmas presents to others.
While Worm gets into the Christmas spirit, Squeaky finds out that he might be in trouble. He has seen a young woman taken by two rough men against her will. Worm wants to help her get away from them, and they find out that the guys have killed her father and has stolen Gold and hidden it from these guys.
They make up a plan to follow them to the gold, but the building where it is, gets caught on fire.
It was interesting and I will read some more of Ms. Perry's books in the future. I also will tell my friends and family I have found a new Christmas story that is sure to please everyone.
November 19, 2018
First of this is a Christmas novella based on Anne Perry's characters from William Monk's series. Now, I've never read any of Anne Perry's books. I decided to go ahead and give this novella a shot. I'm glad I did!
The setting takes place in an English town by Thames River during pre-Victorian era. Reminded me much of Charles Dickens novels. The story focuses on Worm, the former river rat and Squeaky, mentor (I don't know exactly what his role is. I haven't read the series yet) few days before Christmas. Previously orphaned boy had witnessed an abduction of a young woman in abroad daylight in the streets. He wants to help but realizes he can't do it alone. So he runs home to enlist the help of Squeaky. Together, they begin the dangerous journey of finding this kidnapped woman.
Will they be able to save the woman and solve the mystery just in time for Christmas?
I love how Anne described the buildings, the cobblestones street, horses, carriages, clothing, Christmas style during that era. Her writing is impeccable and beautiful.
I'm going to give it a high 3 stars due to fact I'm kind of confused about the characters and how they became a family and the story was slow going with some repetive words and phrases. However, I will be reading her other books to find out more about the characters. I may change the star rating later.
I received this delightful ARC from Random House Publishing Group/Ballatine Ballatine Books. Thank you!
The setting takes place in an English town by Thames River during pre-Victorian era. Reminded me much of Charles Dickens novels. The story focuses on Worm, the former river rat and Squeaky, mentor (I don't know exactly what his role is. I haven't read the series yet) few days before Christmas. Previously orphaned boy had witnessed an abduction of a young woman in abroad daylight in the streets. He wants to help but realizes he can't do it alone. So he runs home to enlist the help of Squeaky. Together, they begin the dangerous journey of finding this kidnapped woman.
Will they be able to save the woman and solve the mystery just in time for Christmas?
I love how Anne described the buildings, the cobblestones street, horses, carriages, clothing, Christmas style during that era. Her writing is impeccable and beautiful.
I'm going to give it a high 3 stars due to fact I'm kind of confused about the characters and how they became a family and the story was slow going with some repetive words and phrases. However, I will be reading her other books to find out more about the characters. I may change the star rating later.
I received this delightful ARC from Random House Publishing Group/Ballatine Ballatine Books. Thank you!
September 10, 2018
Worm is living at the Portpool Lane clinic funded by Oliver Rathbone with Miss Burroughs and Squeaky. He witnesses two men violently forcing a beautiful woman to go with them, following them to an area when they suddenly vanish. He later returns with Squeaky, discovering the woman has a story of her own and went with her captors somewhat willingly. All of this is set around Christmas. Squeaky shares the Christmas story with Worm who never heard it. Although the book is short, it seemed to drag on. It never captivated my interest. I did enjoy Squeaky's interaction with Worm apart from the main story line, including the recital of the Christmas story. I received an advance electronic uncorrected proof from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2022
I enjoy Anne Perry’s Christmas series books, they are always great, simple & easy reads.
December 8, 2018
First Sentence: Worm stood and stared, overcome with wonder.
Worm is a former Thames River urchin, somewhere around nine years old, who has never known a family Christmas. He now has a job and a place to stay at Hester Monk's clinic and is looked after by volunteer Miss Claudine Burroughs and bookkeeper Squeaky Robinson. When Worm witnesses the possible kidnapping of the most beautiful woman he's ever seen, he begs Squeaky's help in rescuing the lady. However, the mystery woman is not the victim she seems and has her own plans for revenge, with Squeaky and Worm providing assistance.
Perry's ability to establish a sense of time and place is transportive. She takes one to the sights and sounds of Victorian London, and truly engages all our senses—"He had time to get a piece of bread from the larder and a little bit of meat dripping to go with it. It tasted salty and meaty and buttery, all at the same time.'
All the preparations for Christmas impart memories many may have known. More than physical things is the recognition that holidays are best when shared—"Claudine looked at him closely, 'I will like Christmas very much, if everyone else does. Christmas is not a good time to be alone. We must make sure everybody is included.'"
Squeaky's introspection as to why helping Worm matters to him shows how much Squeaky's character has developed. Although this is particularly meaningful for those who have followed the series, Perry provides enough information for new readers to appreciate the transformation.
Perry's bits of wisdom are insightful and quote-worthy. It's hard not to include them all, but this particularly stands out—"Everyone has to accept disillusion sometime. Hardly anyone was as good as you believed. He supposed that was what love was: accepting someone the way they were."
"A Christmas Revelation" has an exciting climax and a lovely ending. Yes, they are sentimental, but they are also a wonderful gift one may give oneself.
A CHRISTMAS REVELATION (HistMys-Worm/Squeaky-London-1868) – VG
Perry, Anne – 16th Novella
Ballantine Books – Nov 2018
Worm is a former Thames River urchin, somewhere around nine years old, who has never known a family Christmas. He now has a job and a place to stay at Hester Monk's clinic and is looked after by volunteer Miss Claudine Burroughs and bookkeeper Squeaky Robinson. When Worm witnesses the possible kidnapping of the most beautiful woman he's ever seen, he begs Squeaky's help in rescuing the lady. However, the mystery woman is not the victim she seems and has her own plans for revenge, with Squeaky and Worm providing assistance.
Perry's ability to establish a sense of time and place is transportive. She takes one to the sights and sounds of Victorian London, and truly engages all our senses—"He had time to get a piece of bread from the larder and a little bit of meat dripping to go with it. It tasted salty and meaty and buttery, all at the same time.'
All the preparations for Christmas impart memories many may have known. More than physical things is the recognition that holidays are best when shared—"Claudine looked at him closely, 'I will like Christmas very much, if everyone else does. Christmas is not a good time to be alone. We must make sure everybody is included.'"
Squeaky's introspection as to why helping Worm matters to him shows how much Squeaky's character has developed. Although this is particularly meaningful for those who have followed the series, Perry provides enough information for new readers to appreciate the transformation.
Perry's bits of wisdom are insightful and quote-worthy. It's hard not to include them all, but this particularly stands out—"Everyone has to accept disillusion sometime. Hardly anyone was as good as you believed. He supposed that was what love was: accepting someone the way they were."
"A Christmas Revelation" has an exciting climax and a lovely ending. Yes, they are sentimental, but they are also a wonderful gift one may give oneself.
A CHRISTMAS REVELATION (HistMys-Worm/Squeaky-London-1868) – VG
Perry, Anne – 16th Novella
Ballantine Books – Nov 2018
December 25, 2018
3.5 stars
I stopped reading Anne Perry‘s books a few years back when they started getting so much longer than I care for but I’ve remained a fan of her stories about William and Hester Monk and Thomas and Charlotte Pitt plus a myriad of wonderful secondary characters. When this novella came along, I decided I needed to touch base again, so to speak, and I’m glad I did.
This episode is set in and around Hester Monk’s clinic where a young boy has found a family of sorts with a volunteer and a bookkeeper. When Worm sees a woman being abducted, he goes to Squeaky, the bookkeeper, for help and, against his better judgement, Squeaky jumps in. What the pair learns about the woman puts a real twist on things but, bottomline, the mystery surrounding the woman takes a back seat to the growing relationship—and mutual caring—between a child who’s had to grow up too fast and a rather crotchety older man. It’s a sweet story in many ways.
I stopped reading Anne Perry‘s books a few years back when they started getting so much longer than I care for but I’ve remained a fan of her stories about William and Hester Monk and Thomas and Charlotte Pitt plus a myriad of wonderful secondary characters. When this novella came along, I decided I needed to touch base again, so to speak, and I’m glad I did.
This episode is set in and around Hester Monk’s clinic where a young boy has found a family of sorts with a volunteer and a bookkeeper. When Worm sees a woman being abducted, he goes to Squeaky, the bookkeeper, for help and, against his better judgement, Squeaky jumps in. What the pair learns about the woman puts a real twist on things but, bottomline, the mystery surrounding the woman takes a back seat to the growing relationship—and mutual caring—between a child who’s had to grow up too fast and a rather crotchety older man. It’s a sweet story in many ways.
December 27, 2021
J’avais découvert Anne Perry en traduction Française avec le série de William Monk, et ce petite histoire se joue dans l’hôpital de Portpool Lane de Hester Monk, mais ici le petit orphelin nommé Worm et Squeaky Robinson sont les personnages centrales.
Comme tout la série l’atmosphère est dense et peut être ressenti comme réel. Les deux, Worm et Squeaky sont sont bien crédibles et aimables. L’intrigue se construit lentement et obtient tout à fait élever les cheveux, mais finit bien. Comme d’habitude j’ai bien apprécié la lecture.
Comme tout la série l’atmosphère est dense et peut être ressenti comme réel. Les deux, Worm et Squeaky sont sont bien crédibles et aimables. L’intrigue se construit lentement et obtient tout à fait élever les cheveux, mais finit bien. Comme d’habitude j’ai bien apprécié la lecture.
November 9, 2018
Worm's story ... Hope in the rookeries!
A Christmas tale with Dicksonian overtones. Squeaky Robinson (the Monk series), the accountant for the Portpool Lane Clinic, a man with a chequered past, is cast not as the curmudgeon he often is, but rather as a man who strives to assist a young street boy without wounding his dreams. The spirit of Christmas is surely lingering!
Worm sees a young woman (to him a vision of goodness), "... a lady who smiles, with the sun in her hair," being mishandled by two men and is determined to save her. Squeaky finds himself embroiled in not only looking at helping Worm's heroic stance come true but in facilitating a Christmas dinner for all at the refuge.
The spirit of Christmas truly comes alive via this old reprobate and a young street urchin. Worm and Squeaky's discussion about Christmas is a thing of splendour, funny and heart warming.
No one does Christmas stories quite like Perry. I look forward every year to what she gifts us with. Once again hope and redemption underpin her Christmas offering.
Another brilliant Christmas tale from Perry featuring one of my favorite miscreants.
A Christmas tale with Dicksonian overtones. Squeaky Robinson (the Monk series), the accountant for the Portpool Lane Clinic, a man with a chequered past, is cast not as the curmudgeon he often is, but rather as a man who strives to assist a young street boy without wounding his dreams. The spirit of Christmas is surely lingering!
Worm sees a young woman (to him a vision of goodness), "... a lady who smiles, with the sun in her hair," being mishandled by two men and is determined to save her. Squeaky finds himself embroiled in not only looking at helping Worm's heroic stance come true but in facilitating a Christmas dinner for all at the refuge.
The spirit of Christmas truly comes alive via this old reprobate and a young street urchin. Worm and Squeaky's discussion about Christmas is a thing of splendour, funny and heart warming.
No one does Christmas stories quite like Perry. I look forward every year to what she gifts us with. Once again hope and redemption underpin her Christmas offering.
Another brilliant Christmas tale from Perry featuring one of my favorite miscreants.
December 7, 2020
Sometimes books hide something that you didn't expect when you chose them
In this case the story is about a 9 years old boy that has a special characteristic... when he has a feeling about something, he doesn't let his instict go. In a december day he sees a fringhtened woman with two rude men so he decides to follow her, beginning a new adventure.
Honestly, I dind't like it too much for two main reasons: the novel takes place in the Victorian era but there aren't almost clues about it. There isn't a precise background and that's an obstacle to readers wainting to become part of the narration. Besides the boy get known christmas uses but this aspect is not so releated to the narrative part, as if the author wrote about it only because she had to build her novel in christmas period
In this case the story is about a 9 years old boy that has a special characteristic... when he has a feeling about something, he doesn't let his instict go. In a december day he sees a fringhtened woman with two rude men so he decides to follow her, beginning a new adventure.
Honestly, I dind't like it too much for two main reasons: the novel takes place in the Victorian era but there aren't almost clues about it. There isn't a precise background and that's an obstacle to readers wainting to become part of the narration. Besides the boy get known christmas uses but this aspect is not so releated to the narrative part, as if the author wrote about it only because she had to build her novel in christmas period
December 29, 2019
Another good Christmas novella. Lots of twists and turns on the streets of London. These were two characters that I’m not as familiar with but the story was still good.
October 24, 2018
3.5 stars out of 5
Anne Perry, in this reader's opinion, is the queen of Victorian historical mysteries. I have enjoyed her Monk, Thomas Pitt and Daniel Pitt mysteries as well as a few of her Christmas mysteries. This charming, relatively short story, is 16th in her Christmas series. It focuses on the seedier side of London and has a rather Dickensian feel about it.
The story centers on nine year old Worm, an orphaned youth, who observes what appears to be the abduction of a young woman, lovely in his eyes, against her will by two rough men. Worm seeks the assistance of jaded and former brothel owner, Squeaky to aid him in rescuing the damsel. In Squeaky's eyes, Worm is so very young, naïve and altruistic. Much like pondering telling a child there is no Santa Claus, how does one share with a child the truth of a rough and cynical world? So what's Squeaky to do but help Worm figure out how to aid the young woman, if they can.
Meanwhile, back at the free clinic, Christmas preparations are under way. It's a charming scene where Squeaky divulges the Christmas story to young Worm, who had never before heard the story. Lest I spoil it, I won't share with you how the Christmas celebrations turn out. Suffice it to say, there was quite a bit of drama which unfurled during the penultimate scene.
This story reminds us that Christmas is for family, however you define yours. Ms. Perry wraps up the sweet short story and ties it with a shiny red ribbon bow.
I am grateful to author Anne Perry, publisher Ballantine Books and Netgalley for having provided an advance reader's e-copy of this book. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Anne Perry, in this reader's opinion, is the queen of Victorian historical mysteries. I have enjoyed her Monk, Thomas Pitt and Daniel Pitt mysteries as well as a few of her Christmas mysteries. This charming, relatively short story, is 16th in her Christmas series. It focuses on the seedier side of London and has a rather Dickensian feel about it.
The story centers on nine year old Worm, an orphaned youth, who observes what appears to be the abduction of a young woman, lovely in his eyes, against her will by two rough men. Worm seeks the assistance of jaded and former brothel owner, Squeaky to aid him in rescuing the damsel. In Squeaky's eyes, Worm is so very young, naïve and altruistic. Much like pondering telling a child there is no Santa Claus, how does one share with a child the truth of a rough and cynical world? So what's Squeaky to do but help Worm figure out how to aid the young woman, if they can.
Meanwhile, back at the free clinic, Christmas preparations are under way. It's a charming scene where Squeaky divulges the Christmas story to young Worm, who had never before heard the story. Lest I spoil it, I won't share with you how the Christmas celebrations turn out. Suffice it to say, there was quite a bit of drama which unfurled during the penultimate scene.
This story reminds us that Christmas is for family, however you define yours. Ms. Perry wraps up the sweet short story and ties it with a shiny red ribbon bow.
I am grateful to author Anne Perry, publisher Ballantine Books and Netgalley for having provided an advance reader's e-copy of this book. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
October 14, 2025
Great story with a backdrop of Christmas. I was on the edge of my seat following Worm and Squeeky. A feel good book.
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