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John Pickett Mystery #9
Into Thin Eire
Now you see her...
Still haunted by memories of his last case, in which an innocent woman was accidentally killed, Bow Street Runner John Pickett welcomes the challenge of a new assignment in the West Country. Unfortunately, this time he’ll have to leave his beloved wife, Julia, behind, as he’ll be traveling in company with Harry Carson, a member of the Foot Patrol whose swaggering self-confidence is an uneasy fit with Pickett’s reserve. After three days of trying without success to make contact with the man who sent for him, Pickett receives word from Bow Street that Julia has been abducted. Suddenly his current case takes on much more ominous implications. And if the man behind it all is the one Pickett fears it is, then Julia is in mortal danger . . .
Still haunted by memories of his last case, in which an innocent woman was accidentally killed, Bow Street Runner John Pickett welcomes the challenge of a new assignment in the West Country. Unfortunately, this time he’ll have to leave his beloved wife, Julia, behind, as he’ll be traveling in company with Harry Carson, a member of the Foot Patrol whose swaggering self-confidence is an uneasy fit with Pickett’s reserve. After three days of trying without success to make contact with the man who sent for him, Pickett receives word from Bow Street that Julia has been abducted. Suddenly his current case takes on much more ominous implications. And if the man behind it all is the one Pickett fears it is, then Julia is in mortal danger . . .
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2019
155 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 14, 2019
(Just barely 3 stars) Sheri Cobb South's books are like comfort food for me. They're yummy mac and cheese or tomato soup with a toasted cheese sandwich. I don't expect great literature when I read one, but I do usually get a very good and satisfying read.
I've been following John Pickett's career and life since IN MILADY'S CHAMBER, first published in 2013. That's the one where John, a very young Bow Street runner, investigates the death of a member of the peerage and develops a romantic attraction to that deceased peer's widow, Julia. Well, since then there have been several entries in the John Pickett mystery series and this one is #9. John and Julia are now happily married and expecting their first child. So that's all well and good for a lover of romances.
But, unfortunately, the mystery in this #9 is not really much of a mystery. It's more a matter of catching a known criminal who is out for revenge before a terrible tragedy can occur. I missed not having more red herrings and more complexity to the plot than is found here.
Another disappointment for me is John's behavior here. He doesn't show enough maturity or even detecting smarts in this story. And his attitude towards his valet Thomas and his behavior towards his Bow Street coworker Harry left much to be desired, IMO. With regard to Thomas, I was surprised at the master/servant relationship that had a bit too much "noblesse oblige" to it, considering John's own low social status. And John's dislike for and jealousy of Harry left a bad taste in my mouth.
Well, maybe I read this on a bad day, but I didn't like John much in this one, and I've always before had a soft spot in my heart for him. Not only did I dislike his attitude and behavior towards Thomas and Harry, I also did not find him to have many sleuthing skills here. They kicked in a bit in the last quarter of the book, but in the first half in particular he was slow to figure out what was going on and even slower to act on anything.
Now, what did I like in the book? Julia. She continues to grow and improve and was an admirable character here. I also enjoyed reconnecting with Julia's brother-in-law, who helped John in this story. He is a lovely, capable person.
So, John, IMO, you are on notice to get your act together for future books. And man up and stop being quite so sensitive. Is it feelings of inferiority that are doing this? I hope Cobb South starts giving him a slightly more assertive personality without turning him into an abrasive character. I found some of his actions with regard to Thomas and Harry petty and not to my liking and feel that they may be blamed on his lack of self esteem. So please give him more self esteem, dear Author.
I have been critical of this #9 but it was still worth the read and I will be reading #10, whenever it is released.
I've been following John Pickett's career and life since IN MILADY'S CHAMBER, first published in 2013. That's the one where John, a very young Bow Street runner, investigates the death of a member of the peerage and develops a romantic attraction to that deceased peer's widow, Julia. Well, since then there have been several entries in the John Pickett mystery series and this one is #9. John and Julia are now happily married and expecting their first child. So that's all well and good for a lover of romances.
But, unfortunately, the mystery in this #9 is not really much of a mystery. It's more a matter of catching a known criminal who is out for revenge before a terrible tragedy can occur. I missed not having more red herrings and more complexity to the plot than is found here.
Another disappointment for me is John's behavior here. He doesn't show enough maturity or even detecting smarts in this story. And his attitude towards his valet Thomas and his behavior towards his Bow Street coworker Harry left much to be desired, IMO. With regard to Thomas, I was surprised at the master/servant relationship that had a bit too much "noblesse oblige" to it, considering John's own low social status. And John's dislike for and jealousy of Harry left a bad taste in my mouth.
Well, maybe I read this on a bad day, but I didn't like John much in this one, and I've always before had a soft spot in my heart for him. Not only did I dislike his attitude and behavior towards Thomas and Harry, I also did not find him to have many sleuthing skills here. They kicked in a bit in the last quarter of the book, but in the first half in particular he was slow to figure out what was going on and even slower to act on anything.
Now, what did I like in the book? Julia. She continues to grow and improve and was an admirable character here. I also enjoyed reconnecting with Julia's brother-in-law, who helped John in this story. He is a lovely, capable person.
So, John, IMO, you are on notice to get your act together for future books. And man up and stop being quite so sensitive. Is it feelings of inferiority that are doing this? I hope Cobb South starts giving him a slightly more assertive personality without turning him into an abrasive character. I found some of his actions with regard to Thomas and Harry petty and not to my liking and feel that they may be blamed on his lack of self esteem. So please give him more self esteem, dear Author.
I have been critical of this #9 but it was still worth the read and I will be reading #10, whenever it is released.
June 9, 2020
Audiobook review4,5 stars
I was so happy when I saw that this audiobook had been released. I love this series, these characters and love spending time with them. It’s a series that always have me questioning why I don’t read more historical romances, and historical mysteries at that. There’s something about the feel of the era and the pacing and characters that always leave me with a warmth and feel-good feeling while, and after listening.
If you haven’t read or listened to Peril by Post - I just love the title of that book… Peril by Post – it really resonates with me. Anyway, if you haven’t already read it, please do so before jumping into this one. You probably won’t have any issues following the story even if you don’t, but you’ll miss out on the backstory leading up to the events happening here.
Into Thin Eire takes place a couple of months or so after the events of the previous book. John is still haunted by what happened in the Lake District, but does his best to shield it from Julia. And when a mysterious letter forces him away from London and Julia he vows to be back as soon as he can. When he arrives in the West Country no one has seen the mysterious letter writer and all clues lead nowhere. That is until he receives word that his beloved Julia was abducted from their home and it becomes a race against time to save her.
This book is a bit different from the previous books, there’s no real mystery to be solved, rather it’s a rescue. From the start we know the identity of the abductor, we know the reason why she was abducted. So we, or rather John and his companions, spend most of the book trying to find her and get her back. At the same time Julia, of course, is trying to escape and plots and plans for that to happen. A damsel in distress she might be, but she’s not one that will sit around and wait to be rescued.
I’ve said it before, and I’m going to keep saying it; I’m a huge fan of Julia and John solving mysteries together. They come from widely different worlds and have different experiences and when they work together that’s when they are the best. Sadly, for obvious reasons, they don’t get much time together in this book and I have to say I missed their banter, the looks, their togetherness. But I’m still very happy with the book, I love every adventure and struggle these two find themselves in.
Joel Froomkin was as always just great. I love how he captures the feel and tone of the era and really makes you feel like you are spending time in regency England (and the surrounding areas). For this book I think my favourite part was him narrating Julia. It came across so vividly and clear. You really saw her writing that letter, were there for her plotting and planning and felt that determination of not giving up. And the reunion with John was so sweet. One thing is for sure, you can’t go wrong when picking these books up.
I don’t know if it’s just me but I have a feeling that there might not be too many more books in this series. A few comments there in the end have me wondering. I’m a bit torn about that. On the one hand, I’ll be sad to see the series end, on the other I also believe it’s better to end on a high note while the books are still good. I do know there will be at least one adventure for Jon and Julia in the future and I hope it’s not too far away – I need more of this duo in my life.
A copy of this book was generously gifted to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2019
Series: John Pickett Mysteries #9
Publication Date: 9/9/19
I think this is the best one yet – but – I think I say that with each new release. As always, it is impeccably researched and written, with compelling characters, and a change of scenery from the usual locations. I have a list of “mostly right” authors whose books I always reach for first – not just because their writing is good, but because they get the period details correct as well – and this author’s name is at the top of that list.
This book is quite an eventful and stressful one for John and Julia Pickett! John can’t take Julia with him on his new investigation, Julia is kidnapped, and John is offered an opportunity that would be hard to resist – a villain has escaped and is out for revenge. Oh! My! Goodness!
As John Pickett enters Bow Street early one July morning, he’s told that Magistrate Colquhoun needs to see him right away. Bow Street has received a request for two Runners – John (specifically) and another – to investigate a matter of ‘some delicacy’ in Dunbury. They are to travel to Dunbury and contact a man named Edward Gaines Brockton at the Cock and Boar. Colquhoun selects Harry Carson to accompany John. Harry is the bane of John’s existence and John is dismayed but understands the reasoning behind the selection. (I wonder if we’ll be seeing more of Mr. Carson in future books.) Of larger import to John is that he cannot take Julia with him since he’ll be traveling with another Runner.
When John receives word that Julia has been kidnapped, he rapidly collects his nearby brother-in-law and they all set off on a chase across England and Ireland. You’ll find evil, demented villains and brave heroes and heroines – not to mention a totally unexpected last three paragraphs!
Another great book in this series – highly recommend!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 9/9/19
I think this is the best one yet – but – I think I say that with each new release. As always, it is impeccably researched and written, with compelling characters, and a change of scenery from the usual locations. I have a list of “mostly right” authors whose books I always reach for first – not just because their writing is good, but because they get the period details correct as well – and this author’s name is at the top of that list.
This book is quite an eventful and stressful one for John and Julia Pickett! John can’t take Julia with him on his new investigation, Julia is kidnapped, and John is offered an opportunity that would be hard to resist – a villain has escaped and is out for revenge. Oh! My! Goodness!
As John Pickett enters Bow Street early one July morning, he’s told that Magistrate Colquhoun needs to see him right away. Bow Street has received a request for two Runners – John (specifically) and another – to investigate a matter of ‘some delicacy’ in Dunbury. They are to travel to Dunbury and contact a man named Edward Gaines Brockton at the Cock and Boar. Colquhoun selects Harry Carson to accompany John. Harry is the bane of John’s existence and John is dismayed but understands the reasoning behind the selection. (I wonder if we’ll be seeing more of Mr. Carson in future books.) Of larger import to John is that he cannot take Julia with him since he’ll be traveling with another Runner.
When John receives word that Julia has been kidnapped, he rapidly collects his nearby brother-in-law and they all set off on a chase across England and Ireland. You’ll find evil, demented villains and brave heroes and heroines – not to mention a totally unexpected last three paragraphs!
Another great book in this series – highly recommend!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 23, 2023
Georgian England. Question of Regency is ‘when’ not ‘if’. London. Bow Street Office. Sheri Cobb South’s clever title, Into Thin Eire (John Pickett Mysteries) is not an exact continuation of her previous John Pickett novel, but Eire (Ireland) in the title refers to one particular character who John and Lady Julia meet in the Lake District where John is involved in a very tragic death of an innocent woman. (Peril by Post). This novel appears almost too simplistic. I read it as I like the author’s characters very much, but Into Thin Erie is quickly solved or if not solved the reader strongly suspects what is going to happen. There is an addition to this novel as John Pickett comes to the notice of the Prince of Wales (Soon to be Regent and eventually, George IV). This meeting has John thinking about ‘his station’ in English society. Food for thought, don’t you think?! 3.5 stars
September 16, 2019
Past tragedies haunt!
How I love John Pickett mysteries. John receives a singular honor and his home front is put in jeopardy. Following John's journey is such a pleasure. (BTW, I must thank my Goodreads friend Barbara Rogers for initially drawing this series to my attention!) In this volume John travels to the West Country with his nemesis Harry Carson in response to a request for assistance from John and another Bow Street officer.
Julia, John's beloved and charming wife, is abducted whilst he's away. The past has come back to haunt them both. John enlists the help of his brother-in-law Major James Pennington, late of His Majesty’s 7th cavalry. Together with Thomas his valet and Carson they follow what leads they can. A trail that will send them to Ireland and into a case from the past that still troubles John.
I really enjoy the relationship between John and Julia, I enjoy John's doggedness and insecurities. I enjoy his exasperation with Harry Carson. I love his down to earth good sense. Julia is his perfect foil. Another pleasurable read.
A Sonatina Press/Xpresso Book Tours ARC via NetGalley
How I love John Pickett mysteries. John receives a singular honor and his home front is put in jeopardy. Following John's journey is such a pleasure. (BTW, I must thank my Goodreads friend Barbara Rogers for initially drawing this series to my attention!) In this volume John travels to the West Country with his nemesis Harry Carson in response to a request for assistance from John and another Bow Street officer.
Julia, John's beloved and charming wife, is abducted whilst he's away. The past has come back to haunt them both. John enlists the help of his brother-in-law Major James Pennington, late of His Majesty’s 7th cavalry. Together with Thomas his valet and Carson they follow what leads they can. A trail that will send them to Ireland and into a case from the past that still troubles John.
I really enjoy the relationship between John and Julia, I enjoy John's doggedness and insecurities. I enjoy his exasperation with Harry Carson. I love his down to earth good sense. Julia is his perfect foil. Another pleasurable read.
A Sonatina Press/Xpresso Book Tours ARC via NetGalley
October 11, 2019
4 stars
January 22, 2020
This is my review of the audio version as posted on Audible:
Another great book in the series...
It's a part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone, even though there are definite strong links to what happened in earlier books. However, there is enough information about previous events, enough hints as to the why and the who for the readers/listeners who are not acquainted with all the books in the series to entertain this part.
John Pickett is lured out of London on the pretext of a criminal investigation; in his absence someone abducts his wife. What is John to do when all he can think about is Julia, and his usual calm and intelligence seem to have taken leave? Well, it turns out he's not left alone in his predicament; there are his colleagues and family who come to the rescue, and there is Julia herself, who can also add her wits to the wild chase for her life...
As all the other books in the series this one too is great entertainment, John and Julia make a wonderful couple, and the background characters are colourful, lively and delightful to read/listen about. The pace is fast, there are twists on the way to the happy ending and a few surprises up our characters' sleeves. If you are familiar with the series, you won't be disappointed, if you're new to it - you're in for a real treat.
Narration by Mr Froomkin is as good as ever. His interpretation of all the characters is perfect, and - which is something I really appreciate - he doesn't overdo the female voices; they all sound quite natural. I also like the balance between the indifferent/neutral and the emotional in his reading. A great narrator for the series.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Another great book in the series...
It's a part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone, even though there are definite strong links to what happened in earlier books. However, there is enough information about previous events, enough hints as to the why and the who for the readers/listeners who are not acquainted with all the books in the series to entertain this part.
John Pickett is lured out of London on the pretext of a criminal investigation; in his absence someone abducts his wife. What is John to do when all he can think about is Julia, and his usual calm and intelligence seem to have taken leave? Well, it turns out he's not left alone in his predicament; there are his colleagues and family who come to the rescue, and there is Julia herself, who can also add her wits to the wild chase for her life...
As all the other books in the series this one too is great entertainment, John and Julia make a wonderful couple, and the background characters are colourful, lively and delightful to read/listen about. The pace is fast, there are twists on the way to the happy ending and a few surprises up our characters' sleeves. If you are familiar with the series, you won't be disappointed, if you're new to it - you're in for a real treat.
Narration by Mr Froomkin is as good as ever. His interpretation of all the characters is perfect, and - which is something I really appreciate - he doesn't overdo the female voices; they all sound quite natural. I also like the balance between the indifferent/neutral and the emotional in his reading. A great narrator for the series.
DISCLAIMER: I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
June 2, 2025
Just so you know, the books in this series should be read in order, as they build upon each other. This is a continuation of book eight, PERIL BY POST. Mr. Hetherington, from the previous book, has escaped prison and is dead set on revenge for his wife's death. He has Julia captured, using her as bait to get John Pickett. John, realizing that he cannot do this on his own, gets his brother-in-law, Jamie Pennington, to help. The author utilizes each man's gifts to try to thwart Mr. Hetherington. This is a quick read because I couldn't put the book down.
John Pickett -- Total of 10
0.5. Pickpocket's Apprentice (2015)
1. In Milady's Chamber (2006)
2. A Dead Bore (2008)
3. Family Plot (2014)
4. Dinner Most Deadly (2015)
4.5. Waiting Game (2016)
5. Too Hot to Handel (2016)
6. For Deader or Worse (2017)
7. Mystery Loves Company (2018) --
8. Peril by Post (2018)
** 9. Into Thin Eire (2019)
10. Brother, Can You Spare a Crime? (2020)
John Pickett -- Total of 10
0.5. Pickpocket's Apprentice (2015)
1. In Milady's Chamber (2006)
2. A Dead Bore (2008)
3. Family Plot (2014)
4. Dinner Most Deadly (2015)
4.5. Waiting Game (2016)
5. Too Hot to Handel (2016)
6. For Deader or Worse (2017)
7. Mystery Loves Company (2018) --
8. Peril by Post (2018)
** 9. Into Thin Eire (2019)
10. Brother, Can You Spare a Crime? (2020)
January 4, 2020
Book 9 in the John Pickett Mystery series and they just keep making we want to read more. I love the characters in this series. Sheri Cobb South does a wonderful job of developing the characters and their lives. Narrator Joel L. Froomkin is also amazing with his wonderful narration of this series. I find this series so comforting to listen to. After a difficult holiday season this was a wonderful gift to just relax with a great read.
I was gifted this audiobook with the with the understanding that I would leave an honest review.
I was gifted this audiobook with the with the understanding that I would leave an honest review.
March 10, 2020
I love Julia and John Pickett, the character development and complexities evolve throughout the series. In this case, Julia will be left at home pregnant. As with any great mystery, things begin to twist and turn. John is about to face the pain and guilt of a past case. This is an excellent book.
I love the Narrator in this series. Look forward to books 10,11,12!
In lieu of an honest review I received a free copy of this book
I love the Narrator in this series. Look forward to books 10,11,12!
In lieu of an honest review I received a free copy of this book
September 7, 2021
I am addicted to this wonderful witty Regency series! Another wonderful book, with the story following on from the last with lots of twists and turns, putting our couple in peril. This was an exciting read, which never stints on character detail (new as well as established characters) and flawless period touches. Fabulous storytelling and scene-setting throughout.
January 1, 2021
I enjoyed this, as I have with all the prior books but it would have been 4 stars if John had picked up the EGB clue in the letter. Really, he's better than this, his worries about Julia's safety would have meant he spotted that straight away.
January 13, 2021
These are easy to read, they're humorous, light-hearted, intriguing, and sweetly romantic. I love the writing style of the author and I love how quickly I can get through these highly entertaining stories!
December 27, 2022
Different adventure for the Pickett s
Really enjoy this series. Love John and Julia. This book was slightly different as the mystery was a ruse. I enjoyed following the chase to locate Julia.
Really enjoy this series. Love John and Julia. This book was slightly different as the mystery was a ruse. I enjoyed following the chase to locate Julia.
November 29, 2019
Another excellent John Pickett mystery. Always engaging and fun. All of the characters seem like old friends. Looking forward to more.
August 27, 2020
There is absolutely nothing to pick apart here. John Pickett is as sweetly awesome as he had ever been.
Fantastic!!
Fantastic!!
September 25, 2020
As good as
All the rest. If you have read the series you know what high quality to expect. If not, you should start at the beginning and catch up.
All the rest. If you have read the series you know what high quality to expect. If not, you should start at the beginning and catch up.
January 6, 2021
An excellent new case for Mr Prickett.I hope they keep coming! Wonderful narration by Joel L. roomkin.I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Read
March 3, 2021Audiobook
April 2, 2025
My least favorite of the series. One more to go.
February 21, 2020
Another great Pickett mystery! It's an Old English style mystery with humor and enough twists and turns to keep you fully engaged. The narrator is fantastic, he does amazing with all the voices (even the female ones), accents and does a great job with the acting and narration. It a very clean book series free of bad language, sex, and not overly graphic in the description of murders or violence. I love these books!
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
December 24, 2019
I have spent the last 2 weeks binging on this series. I'm telling you I couldn't put them down. I thought this one was the one that had my heart beating the fastest. It is the last in the series thus far,and I loved it, loved it, loved it !
I love every book in the Pickett series, but this is the one that had me silently yelling ( if one can silently do so)for John Pickett to turn around ,with the quickness, and rush back home to his wife, Julia. John, a Bow street runner, was tricked into going out of town on a fake case requested by an unknown person that turns out to be the revengeful mad villain from the last book who has displaced blame of his wife's accidental death during a gun struggle whilst trying to kill John. These happenings spill over into this latest book since in a deranged outburst he promises John he will kill his wife Julia when John's guard is down as revenge for killing his wife. John's guard becomes down when called out of town to work on a mysterious case that doesn't exist but was designed to get him away from his home...and Julia.
The villain is smart, revengeful and wants to hurt John as he believes John has hurt him although he is the one who actually shot his own wife in the gun struggle.
Upon John being messaged that the kidnapper, who was sentenced to die for his traitorous activities and killing his own wife escaped from jail( and a death sentence) and at the same time his pregnant wife Julia has also been abducted from their home seemingly vanishing into thin air( or Eire ) ( ;
John is wild with worry, and quickly figures out that these happenings are connected and who has taken Julia and so enlists the help of his brother in law, Jamie, who is married to Claudia, Julia's sister, and has military strategic skills that prove to be helpful, his fellow Bowstreet runner, Harry,who is a pain in the neck, but is willing to participate in the search for Julia, along with John's valet. The three of them figure out and hunt down the villains travelling through England and the length and breadth of Ireland to save Julia. Julia is also smart , brave and manages to leave coded letters behind for John. John is young, smart ,a good man and madly in love with his wife.
Each book can stand on its on but reading all the 9 books in order gives you the entertaining back stories that help the reader follow the growth of John and Julia's relationship , their marriage and Johns personal growth from who he was, to who he has become thus far.
I love these characters so much and cannot wait for the next book. In the meantime. I'm rereading them because you always catch some little lovely tid bit you missed the first time around.
Although I love regency books, I've never read any kind of mystery before.
Sherri, thanks for introducing me to the world of regency mystery. I do believe you have me hooked. I'm very happy.
I love every book in the Pickett series, but this is the one that had me silently yelling ( if one can silently do so)for John Pickett to turn around ,with the quickness, and rush back home to his wife, Julia. John, a Bow street runner, was tricked into going out of town on a fake case requested by an unknown person that turns out to be the revengeful mad villain from the last book who has displaced blame of his wife's accidental death during a gun struggle whilst trying to kill John. These happenings spill over into this latest book since in a deranged outburst he promises John he will kill his wife Julia when John's guard is down as revenge for killing his wife. John's guard becomes down when called out of town to work on a mysterious case that doesn't exist but was designed to get him away from his home...and Julia.
The villain is smart, revengeful and wants to hurt John as he believes John has hurt him although he is the one who actually shot his own wife in the gun struggle.
Upon John being messaged that the kidnapper, who was sentenced to die for his traitorous activities and killing his own wife escaped from jail( and a death sentence) and at the same time his pregnant wife Julia has also been abducted from their home seemingly vanishing into thin air( or Eire ) ( ;
John is wild with worry, and quickly figures out that these happenings are connected and who has taken Julia and so enlists the help of his brother in law, Jamie, who is married to Claudia, Julia's sister, and has military strategic skills that prove to be helpful, his fellow Bowstreet runner, Harry,who is a pain in the neck, but is willing to participate in the search for Julia, along with John's valet. The three of them figure out and hunt down the villains travelling through England and the length and breadth of Ireland to save Julia. Julia is also smart , brave and manages to leave coded letters behind for John. John is young, smart ,a good man and madly in love with his wife.
Each book can stand on its on but reading all the 9 books in order gives you the entertaining back stories that help the reader follow the growth of John and Julia's relationship , their marriage and Johns personal growth from who he was, to who he has become thus far.
I love these characters so much and cannot wait for the next book. In the meantime. I'm rereading them because you always catch some little lovely tid bit you missed the first time around.
Although I love regency books, I've never read any kind of mystery before.
Sherri, thanks for introducing me to the world of regency mystery. I do believe you have me hooked. I'm very happy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2019
Called out of London on a secret job, the details of which are to be made known when he meets the man who has asked him to visit a certain inn, John Pickett is reluctant to leave his wife, but has no specific premonition of danger. But when the man proves hard to find and a special message is sent to warn him of his wife's danger, John is forced to face the fact that his old enemy might be behind it all - meaning that they are both in danger of losing their lives to a maniac...
The last book I read by this author was a Regency romance, which I loved due to the language and characters - and this was similarly good, though I did prefer the overall light-heartedness of the other to the greater tension of this one. Clean though with some mild innuendo, largely around John's assistant (a character I could have done without for more reasons than one), this was well-written and enjoyable. Though I have not read previous book in the series, I had no trouble following the story - but having said that, I do plan to go back and read more soon. All in all, a good story, and I look forward to reading more by the author.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
The last book I read by this author was a Regency romance, which I loved due to the language and characters - and this was similarly good, though I did prefer the overall light-heartedness of the other to the greater tension of this one. Clean though with some mild innuendo, largely around John's assistant (a character I could have done without for more reasons than one), this was well-written and enjoyable. Though I have not read previous book in the series, I had no trouble following the story - but having said that, I do plan to go back and read more soon. All in all, a good story, and I look forward to reading more by the author.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
September 24, 2019
Bow Street Runner John Pickett is specially asked for to investigate a case. A letter received asks for Pickett and one other runner to help Edward Gaines Brookton, at Dunbury in Somerset. But when Pickett and Harry Carson arrives all it not what is seems. Previous events have left his wife in peril, now he must save her.
Although this can easily be read as a standalone story, reading the previous book would probably give some background knowledge to this one.
Overall it was still an enjoyable well-written cozy thriller, but not really a mystery. The character of Pickett in this story seemed a bit clueless and weak, and not assertive enough for a Bow Street Runner. My favourite character, though only playing only a minor part, was his brother in-law Major James Pennington.
(Four stars but only just)
A Net Galley Book
Although this can easily be read as a standalone story, reading the previous book would probably give some background knowledge to this one.
Overall it was still an enjoyable well-written cozy thriller, but not really a mystery. The character of Pickett in this story seemed a bit clueless and weak, and not assertive enough for a Bow Street Runner. My favourite character, though only playing only a minor part, was his brother in-law Major James Pennington.
(Four stars but only just)
A Net Galley Book
September 11, 2019
Into Thin Eire was such an exciting, fabulous read. An old enemy escapes from prison, finagled a plot to abduct Pickett’s pregnant wife, Julia. My heart was hammering the entire time, worrying for Julia and cheering on John and his companions.
It was such a wonderful thing that John stayed true to his character's beliefs and values. Julia was as brave and intrepid as always. She didn't just sit and expect to be rescued. I adored the devoted Thomas and came to like John's fellow Bow street runner, that rapscallion Harry Carson. I hope to see Carson in future stories. John’s brother in-law Jamie was a wonderful addition to the search team. It good to know that John has good people on his side. This was a great read and I look forward to the next book in this wonderful mystery series!
It was such a wonderful thing that John stayed true to his character's beliefs and values. Julia was as brave and intrepid as always. She didn't just sit and expect to be rescued. I adored the devoted Thomas and came to like John's fellow Bow street runner, that rapscallion Harry Carson. I hope to see Carson in future stories. John’s brother in-law Jamie was a wonderful addition to the search team. It good to know that John has good people on his side. This was a great read and I look forward to the next book in this wonderful mystery series!
January 10, 2020
Instead of an assignment that might bring him some praise, John has been lured away from London so that a villain due to be hanged has escaped and kidnapped John's beloved wife. John is distraught but assembles the help he needs to locate her even as she does everything she can to leave clues for him. Lots of suspense, angst, reminders of the different reactions law enforcement officers have when dealing with deeds against their own family rather than the general public. Another winner!
Joel Froomkin is the narrator par excellence who makes everything he narrates even better.
Joel Froomkin is the narrator par excellence who makes everything he narrates even better.
September 14, 2019
Thin, right?
I thought this would be a full sized book. The story was interesting and incomplete. We were expecting to see John and Julia overcome challenging situations. The reunited H&H occurs, the story ends abruptly and I felt a chunk of the story was hacked off.
I thought this would be a full sized book. The story was interesting and incomplete. We were expecting to see John and Julia overcome challenging situations. The reunited H&H occurs, the story ends abruptly and I felt a chunk of the story was hacked off.
September 13, 2019
And now what?!
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