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The Clearwater Mysteries #6
Artful Deception
"Deception. The lie that tells the truth."
A damaged painting tempts Clearwater to a final battle with his arch-enemy, and it's not a summons he can ignore. Archer must free his homicidal brother from incarceration and reinstate him to the title. He will be left humiliated and penniless, but free to live his life with Silas with no threat of exposure. The alternative is death.
Drawing inspiration from a work of art, Clearwater manipulates a series of illusions to stay one step ahead of the endgame. While James, Tom and Silas race to solve clues and reach Archer before the fatal deadline, the assassin, Dorjan, remains hot on his heels ready to kill.
The sixth book in The Clearwater Mysteries series brings back popular characters from previous adventures in a fast-paced, twisting mystery that can have only one of two possible endings.
Or perhaps one of three. After all, deception is the lie that tells the truth.
A damaged painting tempts Clearwater to a final battle with his arch-enemy, and it's not a summons he can ignore. Archer must free his homicidal brother from incarceration and reinstate him to the title. He will be left humiliated and penniless, but free to live his life with Silas with no threat of exposure. The alternative is death.
Drawing inspiration from a work of art, Clearwater manipulates a series of illusions to stay one step ahead of the endgame. While James, Tom and Silas race to solve clues and reach Archer before the fatal deadline, the assassin, Dorjan, remains hot on his heels ready to kill.
The sixth book in The Clearwater Mysteries series brings back popular characters from previous adventures in a fast-paced, twisting mystery that can have only one of two possible endings.
Or perhaps one of three. After all, deception is the lie that tells the truth.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 29, 2020
About the author
Jackson Marsh
46 books89 followersJackson Marsh is a British born author of novels and screenplays. He has won awards for his gay erotic writing and currently writes for several adult websites. In 2007, Jackson won an EGPA for his writing and in 2017 won awards for his screenplay writing. He is married and lives in Greece.
You can reach Jackson at his website jacksonmarsh.com
You can reach Jackson at his website jacksonmarsh.com
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 11, 2024
5.0 stars ...
So ...
yep ...
Such a shame ...
a crime, actually ...
that this series is flying
so far under the radar! 😩
‘I shall be safe with Danny and him with me. We shall all be safe, together, bonded by all that has happened. Know this, men, I love each of you, and live my life to protect and benefit yours. As Danny would say, I would fuck pigs for each of you.’
‘What the…?’ James shuddered. ‘Sorry, Archie, but… Ew, that’s nasty.’
‘It means,’ Danylo explained, ‘that His Lordship would do anything for you, and the sentiment goes both ways, My Lord.’
So ...
yep ...
Such a shame ...
a crime, actually ...
that this series is flying
so far under the radar! 😩
‘I shall be safe with Danny and him with me. We shall all be safe, together, bonded by all that has happened. Know this, men, I love each of you, and live my life to protect and benefit yours. As Danny would say, I would fuck pigs for each of you.’
‘What the…?’ James shuddered. ‘Sorry, Archie, but… Ew, that’s nasty.’
‘It means,’ Danylo explained, ‘that His Lordship would do anything for you, and the sentiment goes both ways, My Lord.’
Read
September 4, 2024Similar to my complaints with the previous book in the series, I wasn’t a fan of the villainous plot in Artful Deception. It was a tired repeat of the plotting in all the previous books of the series and if I didn’t know the series would take a serious turn in direction after this book, I’d have DNF’d early. That said, I DO want to continue so I gritted my teeth, rolled my eyes and persisted. At this point, I am SO relieved to be done with the obnoxious villainy.
I loved the ending as it hinted at the new direction of the coming books. I’ve got my fingers crossed that I begin to truly enjoy the series again.
No rating because I low key hated this one but I knew going into it that I would, that I was entirely over the villain and was only reading so I could get to the next books without missing the intro to the new characters that will carry over into them.
I loved the ending as it hinted at the new direction of the coming books. I’ve got my fingers crossed that I begin to truly enjoy the series again.
No rating because I low key hated this one but I knew going into it that I would, that I was entirely over the villain and was only reading so I could get to the next books without missing the intro to the new characters that will carry over into them.
April 7, 2021
The author draws a resounding close to some long story-arcs with this sixth volume of the series ... Archer and his assembled household (aka family) of 'merry men' go on yet another cryptic clue initiated wild goose-chase over land and sea, barely keeping ahead of a deranged arch-enemy with nine-lives and a relentless paid assassin. I'm actually quite relieved we see the last of these baddies (please let it be truly so) as their associated recurring themes were wearing thin on my nerves over the last 2 books. Several new secondary characters are introduced who may bring more scope to the M-M romance side of things in future books and there's a rather intriguing premise of a new 'business venture' laid out at the very end. Not quite the best book in the series to date ... 3 stars at best.
January 2, 2022
Book 6 in the Clearwater Mysteries series, and this book is my favourite so far. The plot was excellent, and just when I thought I had everything figured out, I was proven so wrong!! All 4 the main characters had time to shine, with a few new secondary characters that added richness to the story. As with the rest of the books, the heat is really very low, but the plot is so riveting, you don't miss it.
I would really recommend the Clearwater Mysteries of Jackson March to all who love intrinsically plotted historical MM romances!
I would really recommend the Clearwater Mysteries of Jackson March to all who love intrinsically plotted historical MM romances!
March 10, 2024
An artfully deceptive book
We're back in London, heralded by a exciting opening chapter that sets the scene for what is sure to be another brilliant mystery of misdirection and murder. When the last book ended we saw Quill stepping out from the shadows preparing to make his final play, and as book 6 opens we start to see what that is.
Going into this there's a sense that this is going to be the final showdown between Archer and Quill, and this being a Jackson Marsh book you know there are going to be plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing till the very end. However, on the surface I feel most of the misdirection comes from the author himself. Archer has an air of confidence about him as he second-guesses Quill's mysterious subterfuge. From the readers point of view a lot of the mystery stems from an necessity by the author to give the reader some clues to try to crack. Having read the book I see that a lot of effort was made by the Clearwater team in trying to solve a puzzle of where to leave a note! I don't want to spoil it for you, but for me the mystery in this "Clearwater Mystery" book seem to be the weakest of all the 6 books. In some way, I can forgive that of the author because it serves mainly as a backdrop on which to showcase many of our favourite elements from the past 5 books.
In fact, what we actually have here is a pick n mix selection box of the greatest hits from the series to date. We have playacting, a court case, a bit of theatre, some great detective work and code breaking, male bonding, even a train journey, well there's quite a few of them actually. And of course there's plenty of heroics. We've got it all, and it's brought together for Quill's last big hurrah.
But with all this the author gives us some great character writing too, with some wonderfully funny and exciting scenes. I feel he has done this more for the fans and those faithful readers who have been with the series since its first book, "Deviant Desire". In fact, this is not a standalone book at all. If it is your first book in the series, then you will miss out on the emotional gravity that we see in those final chapters. The history we all have with these characters cannot be understated when it comes to how Jackson Marsh writes those final scenes And the weight it puts on your heart as you read them is all the more fire it. Although there is a feeling of closure about this book there is also a feeling of a new beginnings too. Something new and wonderful is being born from these ashes.
For me this was a satisfying book as I got to see the end of a storyline that began in book one. But it wasn't one of his best. That said, even on a bad day, Jackson Marsh still writes a cracking book! And this was by no means a bad day. Indeed how can any book with Sir Creswell in it ever be anything other than brilliant!
We're back in London, heralded by a exciting opening chapter that sets the scene for what is sure to be another brilliant mystery of misdirection and murder. When the last book ended we saw Quill stepping out from the shadows preparing to make his final play, and as book 6 opens we start to see what that is.
Going into this there's a sense that this is going to be the final showdown between Archer and Quill, and this being a Jackson Marsh book you know there are going to be plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing till the very end. However, on the surface I feel most of the misdirection comes from the author himself. Archer has an air of confidence about him as he second-guesses Quill's mysterious subterfuge. From the readers point of view a lot of the mystery stems from an necessity by the author to give the reader some clues to try to crack. Having read the book I see that a lot of effort was made by the Clearwater team in trying to solve a puzzle of where to leave a note! I don't want to spoil it for you, but for me the mystery in this "Clearwater Mystery" book seem to be the weakest of all the 6 books. In some way, I can forgive that of the author because it serves mainly as a backdrop on which to showcase many of our favourite elements from the past 5 books.
In fact, what we actually have here is a pick n mix selection box of the greatest hits from the series to date. We have playacting, a court case, a bit of theatre, some great detective work and code breaking, male bonding, even a train journey, well there's quite a few of them actually. And of course there's plenty of heroics. We've got it all, and it's brought together for Quill's last big hurrah.
But with all this the author gives us some great character writing too, with some wonderfully funny and exciting scenes. I feel he has done this more for the fans and those faithful readers who have been with the series since its first book, "Deviant Desire". In fact, this is not a standalone book at all. If it is your first book in the series, then you will miss out on the emotional gravity that we see in those final chapters. The history we all have with these characters cannot be understated when it comes to how Jackson Marsh writes those final scenes And the weight it puts on your heart as you read them is all the more fire it. Although there is a feeling of closure about this book there is also a feeling of a new beginnings too. Something new and wonderful is being born from these ashes.
For me this was a satisfying book as I got to see the end of a storyline that began in book one. But it wasn't one of his best. That said, even on a bad day, Jackson Marsh still writes a cracking book! And this was by no means a bad day. Indeed how can any book with Sir Creswell in it ever be anything other than brilliant!
March 12, 2021
Archer is beside himself. He’s figured out a devious scheme that will very likely kill him. He’s gotten all his affairs in order and is getting ready to meet with those that are close to him, better known as his crew.
Silas, James, Thomas, Jake, Danylo and Andrej are ready to accept their responsibility in Archer’s plan to put an end to the evil Quill. The plan is a good one and everyone has to stay positive and believe it will work. But Silas, Thomas and James find themselves desperately staying one step ahead of the game. Archer has made and examined all the possibilities of failure and is prepared in case of his death.
Will everyone be ready to take on this dangerous deed? Who will survive?
For me this is, one of the best 18th century, Victorian mysteries series set in London. Jackson Marsh has never failed in delivering: on-the edge of your seat suspense, danger, mystery and explosive excitement.
What has really stood out with “The Clearwater Mysteries” is the camaraderie that has taken place throughout each novel. This group of heroes is made up of: fiends and lovers, and with each tale there’s always something new to learn about each character. There’s also an interesting change for Mrs. Norwood as her life starts in a new direction.
My thought about “The Clearwater Mysteries” has always been that this extraordinary group of men could very well be detectives and I couldn’t fathom “Artful Deception” ending any other way.
I’m ready for book seven “Home From Nowhere” that takes a little different direction with another interesting mystery.
Silas, James, Thomas, Jake, Danylo and Andrej are ready to accept their responsibility in Archer’s plan to put an end to the evil Quill. The plan is a good one and everyone has to stay positive and believe it will work. But Silas, Thomas and James find themselves desperately staying one step ahead of the game. Archer has made and examined all the possibilities of failure and is prepared in case of his death.
Will everyone be ready to take on this dangerous deed? Who will survive?
For me this is, one of the best 18th century, Victorian mysteries series set in London. Jackson Marsh has never failed in delivering: on-the edge of your seat suspense, danger, mystery and explosive excitement.
What has really stood out with “The Clearwater Mysteries” is the camaraderie that has taken place throughout each novel. This group of heroes is made up of: fiends and lovers, and with each tale there’s always something new to learn about each character. There’s also an interesting change for Mrs. Norwood as her life starts in a new direction.
My thought about “The Clearwater Mysteries” has always been that this extraordinary group of men could very well be detectives and I couldn’t fathom “Artful Deception” ending any other way.
I’m ready for book seven “Home From Nowhere” that takes a little different direction with another interesting mystery.
January 7, 2021
4.5*
As one door shuts (Quill is gone), another opens (The Clearwater Detective Agency) - I hope there are many more!
What I have liked in this series is the characters and the books have progressed from a shaky start to well crafted mysteries - sometimes obvious and other times not.
The blurring of upstairs and downstairs lines has been good in this series, as it would be a few more decades before it crumbled in reality.
Looking forward to reading of more exploits, especially with some new characters involved.
As one door shuts (Quill is gone), another opens (The Clearwater Detective Agency) - I hope there are many more!
What I have liked in this series is the characters and the books have progressed from a shaky start to well crafted mysteries - sometimes obvious and other times not.
The blurring of upstairs and downstairs lines has been good in this series, as it would be a few more decades before it crumbled in reality.
Looking forward to reading of more exploits, especially with some new characters involved.
June 8, 2022
Another wonderful romp and this time Archer really shines! The merry band of men (and women) around Clearwater household goes on another adventure and the story is once again masterfully told with a satisfying completion to one of the story arcs. The ending was also another delightful surprise. Love the romance and bromance in this.
June 15, 2020
I love this series
All of them are good. Sure, they’re a little wild sometimes but they are a heck of a lot of fun. I like that the same characters return for every book and I’m excited they are going into business together. Can’t wait to read the next one.
All of them are good. Sure, they’re a little wild sometimes but they are a heck of a lot of fun. I like that the same characters return for every book and I’m excited they are going into business together. Can’t wait to read the next one.
March 16, 2023
This series just Gets Better
This 6th Book of the series is the crescendo of Act 1, and what a story filled with heart of mystery it is! Lots of misdirection and intrigue. And an ending that steps up the whole series to another kind of story. Well done Author.
This 6th Book of the series is the crescendo of Act 1, and what a story filled with heart of mystery it is! Lots of misdirection and intrigue. And an ending that steps up the whole series to another kind of story. Well done Author.
May 28, 2026
Artful Deception (Clearwater Mysteries 6)
By Jackson Marsh
Published by author, 2020
Five stars
Although it’s not the last book in this first of Jackson Marsh’s series set in Victorian London, it is a culmination of sorts – and a welcome one.
The core conflict here is, as it has been throughout this series so far, between Archer Riddington, Viscount Clearwater, and his one-time fellow naval officer and friend, Dr. Quill. Quill, who bears a longtime, violent grudge against the young viscount, is fixated on Archer’s institutionalized elder brother, Crispin Riddington, and is committed to destroying Archer’s world and returning his brother to the Clearwater title and fortune.
The new twist in this chapter of the Quill saga is Earl Kingsclear, naval commander and martinet, at whose grandiose country house Clearwater (and, therefore, his valet, James Wright) is staying. While the violent earl plays a key trigger role in Quill’s latest stratagem, this book is, really about Archer Riddington and his relationship with his servants – who are also his friends and his confidants. The main plot focuses on dealing with Quill’s machinations, while the secondary plot (the emotional one) carries on Archer’s personal campaign to stop cruelty and injustice, especially as it is carried out against men in service and men, like himself, who are romantically inclined to other men.
One of Marsh’s greatest gifts as a storyteller is maintaining a plausible and emotionally engaging exploration of the reality of same-sex attraction in Victorian England; while simultaneously digging deep into class differences and the life in the great English house. It is clear that these books are written for modern readers – since much of what Marsh does best would have been anathema in actual English literature in the 1880s.
An important sub-focus here is the ongoing friction between Clearwater’s closest friend – also his butler, Thomas Payne – and his lover, Silas Hawkins. All of Archer’s men – because all of these men love him, although it is not often said overtly – get involved in keeping their employer/friend/benefactor safe. Sometimes they do it behind his back, just as he acts without telling them what he’s up to, out of a desire to protect those who matter.
These books are complex, emotionally and narratively. They are fascinating, and for this retired curator and cultural historian, strikingly authentic in detail. The world of Archer Clearwater is a fantasy, but it is so very satisfying.
By Jackson Marsh
Published by author, 2020
Five stars
Although it’s not the last book in this first of Jackson Marsh’s series set in Victorian London, it is a culmination of sorts – and a welcome one.
The core conflict here is, as it has been throughout this series so far, between Archer Riddington, Viscount Clearwater, and his one-time fellow naval officer and friend, Dr. Quill. Quill, who bears a longtime, violent grudge against the young viscount, is fixated on Archer’s institutionalized elder brother, Crispin Riddington, and is committed to destroying Archer’s world and returning his brother to the Clearwater title and fortune.
The new twist in this chapter of the Quill saga is Earl Kingsclear, naval commander and martinet, at whose grandiose country house Clearwater (and, therefore, his valet, James Wright) is staying. While the violent earl plays a key trigger role in Quill’s latest stratagem, this book is, really about Archer Riddington and his relationship with his servants – who are also his friends and his confidants. The main plot focuses on dealing with Quill’s machinations, while the secondary plot (the emotional one) carries on Archer’s personal campaign to stop cruelty and injustice, especially as it is carried out against men in service and men, like himself, who are romantically inclined to other men.
One of Marsh’s greatest gifts as a storyteller is maintaining a plausible and emotionally engaging exploration of the reality of same-sex attraction in Victorian England; while simultaneously digging deep into class differences and the life in the great English house. It is clear that these books are written for modern readers – since much of what Marsh does best would have been anathema in actual English literature in the 1880s.
An important sub-focus here is the ongoing friction between Clearwater’s closest friend – also his butler, Thomas Payne – and his lover, Silas Hawkins. All of Archer’s men – because all of these men love him, although it is not often said overtly – get involved in keeping their employer/friend/benefactor safe. Sometimes they do it behind his back, just as he acts without telling them what he’s up to, out of a desire to protect those who matter.
These books are complex, emotionally and narratively. They are fascinating, and for this retired curator and cultural historian, strikingly authentic in detail. The world of Archer Clearwater is a fantasy, but it is so very satisfying.
July 19, 2020
Another exciting mystery!
This entire series will keep you on the edge of your seat. All the characters are flawed and written perfectly. Looking forward to reading the next book.
This entire series will keep you on the edge of your seat. All the characters are flawed and written perfectly. Looking forward to reading the next book.
July 30, 2020
Very enjoyable series, well written with likeable characters. Some very interesting historical facts as well. Can't wait for more.
September 29, 2024
Excellent
I could not put this book down. It took all my will power not to check out the ending after the first couple of chapters
I could not put this book down. It took all my will power not to check out the ending after the first couple of chapters
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews