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Carlyle & West Victorian Mystery #2
Death Comes But Twice
Dr Carlyle and Matthew West are back in a thrilling adventure! Perfect for fans of Sherlock Holmes, Andrew Taylor, Anne Perry and Robin Paige…
Who would want to murder a man who already supposed to be dead?
London, 1893
When doctor James Carlyle is given a dead body to investigate, he makes a shocking discovery Innovative fingerprinting techniques reveal the dead man was Artus Skuja. But Skuja was hanged a year ago…
Carlyle discovers that his new friend, local preacher Matthew West was present at the hanging, and seeks out his help in solving the mystery. And when more deaths occur, it seems a larger plot could be at large.
What really happened to Skuja? Who covered up his death? And why was he targeted after his escape…?
DEATH COMES BUT TWICE is the second crime thriller in an exciting new historical crime series, the Carlyle & West Victorian Mysteries, private investigations set in Victorian London and packed full of suspense.
THE CARLYLE & WEST VICTORIAN MYSTERY SERIES:
BOOK ONE: Interviewing the Dead
BOOK TWO: Death Comes But Twice
Who would want to murder a man who already supposed to be dead?
London, 1893
When doctor James Carlyle is given a dead body to investigate, he makes a shocking discovery Innovative fingerprinting techniques reveal the dead man was Artus Skuja. But Skuja was hanged a year ago…
Carlyle discovers that his new friend, local preacher Matthew West was present at the hanging, and seeks out his help in solving the mystery. And when more deaths occur, it seems a larger plot could be at large.
What really happened to Skuja? Who covered up his death? And why was he targeted after his escape…?
DEATH COMES BUT TWICE is the second crime thriller in an exciting new historical crime series, the Carlyle & West Victorian Mysteries, private investigations set in Victorian London and packed full of suspense.
THE CARLYLE & WEST VICTORIAN MYSTERY SERIES:
BOOK ONE: Interviewing the Dead
BOOK TWO: Death Comes But Twice
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 21, 2020
110 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
David Field
59 books97 followersDavid was born in post-war Nottingham, and educated at Nottingham High School. After obtaining a Law degree he became a career-long criminal law practitioner and academic, emigrating in 1989 to Australia, where he still lives.
Combining his two great loves of History and the English language he began writing historical novels as an escape from the realities of life in the criminal law, but did not begin to publish them until close to fulltime retirement, when digital publishing offered a viable alternative to literary agencies, print publishers and rejection slips.
Now blessed with all the time in the world, his former hobby has become a fulltime occupation as he enjoys life in rural New South Wales with his wife, sons and grandchildren to keep him firmly grounded in the reality of the contemporary world.
David Field is published by Sapere Books.
Combining his two great loves of History and the English language he began writing historical novels as an escape from the realities of life in the criminal law, but did not begin to publish them until close to fulltime retirement, when digital publishing offered a viable alternative to literary agencies, print publishers and rejection slips.
Now blessed with all the time in the world, his former hobby has become a fulltime occupation as he enjoys life in rural New South Wales with his wife, sons and grandchildren to keep him firmly grounded in the reality of the contemporary world.
David Field is published by Sapere Books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 20, 2020
First and foremost, a large thank you to David Field and Sapere Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
When I was given the chance to read an early copy of David Field’s newest novel, I knew it was not something I wanted to ignore. This second book in his new Victorian crime series is packed with action and a great deal of information from the time period. Field keeps the reader’s attention while spinning an duplicitous tale at a time when forensic advancements were afoot in the field of police work. When Dr. James Carlyle, a surgeon at the local London Hospital, receives a new body for autopsy, something familiar has him second guessing himself. The man before him is already dead, or was before his poisoning with digitalis. Carlyle reaches out to his sometimes colleague, Matthew West, who is a local Wesleyan street preacher. West’s interest is piqued, as he witnessed the man’s execution not long ago. Wondering if the hanging was a ruse, West returns to investigate a little more. While this is taking place, Dr. Carlyle’s daughter, Adelaide, is mounting her campaign to run for the London County Council, the first female candidate ever to do so. Without universal suffrage, she will have to appeal to the men of the district, many of whom do not take her seriously. With West agreeing to nominate her, Adelaide has high hopes of making a difference and cleaning up London as best she can. When news emerges that a second person with ties to the hanging turns up dead, Carlyle and West begin to wonder if a cover-up is taking place, though they cannot be sure who might be orchestrating it. West receives an interesting proposition by a wealthy London businesswoman, one Mary Miller, who wishes him to work with her to abolish capital punishment. While he is intrigued, there is something not entirely right about her. As West and Carlyle dig a little deeper, they discover that Mary Miller has quite the past, including an indirect tie to West himself. When more men turn up dead, the rush is on to discover who is killing them and what faking an execution might have done to advance someone’s cause. Miller seems innocent, but there is too much in her past to simply dismiss her as a suspect With all this going on, West is also trying to secure himself permanent employment and something even more important. There is little time to wait and much to do before a killer slips away, with additional targets sure to follow. A stunning addition to this new series, Field exemplifies that he is not an author to be taken lightly. Recommended to those who love a quick-paced mystery, as well as the reader who loves Victorian crime thrillers.
Having first come to know about David Field when I read some of his earlier Victorian novels in another series, I was pleasantly surprised at how entertaining and educational his pieces can be. I was pleased to see Field return with a new series set in this same era, permitting him to expand on the mysteries of the time, but from a unique perspective. Field uses two strong protagonists, with hints that a third might be in the making. Matthew West continues to grow as a preacher to the poor and out of luck, though he seeks more. His amateur sleuthing ways work well for him as he tries to get to the bottom of the case at hand, though the pressure to find something permanent serves as an underlying bit of character development as the move gains momentum. West has some ideas, but is still too timid to take life by the horns and steer it in the direction he wants most. Dr. James Carlyle is both his colleague and polar opposite, with medical knowledge and life experience that makes him the more grounded of the two. Carlyle educates West (and the reader) to some of the new forensics being used, something called ‘fingerprints’, as well as the details of pharmaceutical poisonings. Carlyle reveals some interesting facts about the case, where possible, while also trying to parent Adelaide, who continues to stir up the pot with her women’s rights movement and attempts to win a seat on the London County Council. Adelaide becomes a third protagonist throughout this piece, pushing her ideas and keeping a constant eye on Matthew West, as their romantic chemistry seems to be building, though neither is ready to admit it to the other. Field uses other characters to enrich the reading experience, offering a great deal of flavouring to an exciting story. With an interesting premise, Field pulls on some of the sentiments surrounding capital punishment, women’s rights, and the dawn of forensic advancements to create this story that is as easy to read as it is captivating. With a mixture of chapter lengths, Field keeps the reader guessing what is to come with each plot reveal. The narrative flows really well and is peppered with great cockney slang to add a layer of realism to the banter between characters. I am eager to see what else the West-Carlyle duo (trio) undertake in upcoming pieces, especially with some of the revelations in the final chapter of this novel.
Kudos, Mr. Field, for keeping me entertained from cover to cover. I just saw the announcement of the series’ third novel and cannot wait to get my hands on it soon!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
When I was given the chance to read an early copy of David Field’s newest novel, I knew it was not something I wanted to ignore. This second book in his new Victorian crime series is packed with action and a great deal of information from the time period. Field keeps the reader’s attention while spinning an duplicitous tale at a time when forensic advancements were afoot in the field of police work. When Dr. James Carlyle, a surgeon at the local London Hospital, receives a new body for autopsy, something familiar has him second guessing himself. The man before him is already dead, or was before his poisoning with digitalis. Carlyle reaches out to his sometimes colleague, Matthew West, who is a local Wesleyan street preacher. West’s interest is piqued, as he witnessed the man’s execution not long ago. Wondering if the hanging was a ruse, West returns to investigate a little more. While this is taking place, Dr. Carlyle’s daughter, Adelaide, is mounting her campaign to run for the London County Council, the first female candidate ever to do so. Without universal suffrage, she will have to appeal to the men of the district, many of whom do not take her seriously. With West agreeing to nominate her, Adelaide has high hopes of making a difference and cleaning up London as best she can. When news emerges that a second person with ties to the hanging turns up dead, Carlyle and West begin to wonder if a cover-up is taking place, though they cannot be sure who might be orchestrating it. West receives an interesting proposition by a wealthy London businesswoman, one Mary Miller, who wishes him to work with her to abolish capital punishment. While he is intrigued, there is something not entirely right about her. As West and Carlyle dig a little deeper, they discover that Mary Miller has quite the past, including an indirect tie to West himself. When more men turn up dead, the rush is on to discover who is killing them and what faking an execution might have done to advance someone’s cause. Miller seems innocent, but there is too much in her past to simply dismiss her as a suspect With all this going on, West is also trying to secure himself permanent employment and something even more important. There is little time to wait and much to do before a killer slips away, with additional targets sure to follow. A stunning addition to this new series, Field exemplifies that he is not an author to be taken lightly. Recommended to those who love a quick-paced mystery, as well as the reader who loves Victorian crime thrillers.
Having first come to know about David Field when I read some of his earlier Victorian novels in another series, I was pleasantly surprised at how entertaining and educational his pieces can be. I was pleased to see Field return with a new series set in this same era, permitting him to expand on the mysteries of the time, but from a unique perspective. Field uses two strong protagonists, with hints that a third might be in the making. Matthew West continues to grow as a preacher to the poor and out of luck, though he seeks more. His amateur sleuthing ways work well for him as he tries to get to the bottom of the case at hand, though the pressure to find something permanent serves as an underlying bit of character development as the move gains momentum. West has some ideas, but is still too timid to take life by the horns and steer it in the direction he wants most. Dr. James Carlyle is both his colleague and polar opposite, with medical knowledge and life experience that makes him the more grounded of the two. Carlyle educates West (and the reader) to some of the new forensics being used, something called ‘fingerprints’, as well as the details of pharmaceutical poisonings. Carlyle reveals some interesting facts about the case, where possible, while also trying to parent Adelaide, who continues to stir up the pot with her women’s rights movement and attempts to win a seat on the London County Council. Adelaide becomes a third protagonist throughout this piece, pushing her ideas and keeping a constant eye on Matthew West, as their romantic chemistry seems to be building, though neither is ready to admit it to the other. Field uses other characters to enrich the reading experience, offering a great deal of flavouring to an exciting story. With an interesting premise, Field pulls on some of the sentiments surrounding capital punishment, women’s rights, and the dawn of forensic advancements to create this story that is as easy to read as it is captivating. With a mixture of chapter lengths, Field keeps the reader guessing what is to come with each plot reveal. The narrative flows really well and is peppered with great cockney slang to add a layer of realism to the banter between characters. I am eager to see what else the West-Carlyle duo (trio) undertake in upcoming pieces, especially with some of the revelations in the final chapter of this novel.
Kudos, Mr. Field, for keeping me entertained from cover to cover. I just saw the announcement of the series’ third novel and cannot wait to get my hands on it soon!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
September 20, 2020
I must admit I choose this book mainly for the absolutely stunning cover, having never read any books by David Field. I'm happy to say that the stunning cover hides a delightful story, a mystery set in a time when most modern inventions were still a mystery to most people, and with strong and lively characters. Matthew is a very interesting young man and Adelaide of course a woman to my heart. I loved the mystery, the way it was solved, the strong characterization and the very, very entertaining dialogues.
Thanks to Netgalley for this digital review copy.
Thanks to Netgalley for this digital review copy.
September 15, 2020
This story takes place around 1891 in London.
Dr James Carlyle is a hospital surgeon who specialises in mortuary science. Together with police inspector John Jennings he also investigates the new French theory about the uniqueness of fingerprints. His daughter Adelaide is his assistant. She’s a very high spirited young lady with feminist ideals and political ambitions. In the previous book, they met with Matthew West a street preacher from the Wesleyan church. He has fallen in love with Adelaide and has the approval of her dad but the young lady is dead set on proving that women can be totally self-sufficient and happy without male interference.
When a corpse in dr Carlyle’s mortuary turns out to not only as being poisoned but also as being that of a man who was hanged a year earlier, the doctor calls on the help of his friend Matthew. Some sort of subterfuge must have taken place during the hanging but how exactly it was done and who was behind it are unclear. Just as important is the matter of who felt it necessary to poison the resurrected criminal.
This book brings some very strong arguments against the death penalty. In the past spoke out several times against this practice. Most important is that we can’t always be absolutely certain that a person is indeed guilty of the crime he’s accused of. There are many men in prison, on death row and executed who are later proved to be innocent. And yes, I also have the same sentiment as most people that some perpetrators are that evil, vicious and inhuman that they deserve to suffer and have no right to live. But if we act on that sentiment, we are no better than a murderer. I can’t morally justify executions, even if they’re done painlessly and clinically. For those who are religious, there is written: “Thou shalt not kill!” In Victorian London, the hangings were a public spectacle that attracted many spectators. We’re confronted with the brutality and unpleasantness of them on the very first pages of the book.
It’s not only the hangings that are mentioned and described. Adelaide’s political ambitions make it possible to point out many of the ailments of Victorian society and especially the living conditions of the poor. But her main interest lays in the inequality and oppression of women. She’s extremely outspoken on that topic. She’s not prepared to allow Matthew any closer to her than friendship and swears never to marry. But when Mary, the woman of the anti-capital punishment group turns up and doesn’t hide her interest in him, Adelaide reacts very frostily. So, unwittingly, she may harbour softer feelings for him. She reminds me of the character ‘Annie Fuller’ in the Victorian San Francisco mysteries from Louisa Locke. If you like those, I’m certain you will like this series as well.
Adelaide and her friends are far more liberated than the average lady at the time. They’re professional women, own businesses and property and are very outspoken. They do not want to comply with the expectations that society has of women. It’s the brave choices that these women made, that form the base for our own liberties, possibilities and all we take for granted. This was just 130 years ago. Could you live under the restrictions these women suffered? I think I prefer social distancing and lockdown!
I haven’t read the first book, but that was no problem to get on with this story. There’s a short explanation in the first chapter who everybody is and how they’re related. They’re all very likeable, apart from the villains of course. I knew who was responsible quite early on in the book but I thought that it couldn’t be this simple because I didn’t see a motive. It was a bit of a shame that I guessed it too early, but I enjoyed the rest of the story as well. There are more than enough other elements in this story; romance, history, political and social comments, religion. I don’t know if it can be called a cosy mystery as the description of the hanging is unpleasant and some of the action occurs in the mortuary. The rest is written more light-footed and positive in tone. It’s a short and pleasant read with decent historical research. At the end of the book, the author gives a few interesting historical facts about the issues he mentions in her story.
I really want to give 4,5 stars because it was too easy to find the culprit. Guess that I feel generous today.
I thank Sapere Books and Netgalley for the free ARC they provided; this is my unbiased and honest review of it.
October 29, 2020
I really really like this series! The writing is just fun and easy to read, so much so that I picked up this second book whilst only having read one chapter in the first book. That’s how good it is.
The cases are interesting and at first make you think something supernatural is going on. In this case Dr Carlyle finds a man on his slab who has the same fingerprints as a man who was hanged a year earlier… a hanging preacher Matthew was present at. What follows is an investigation into how one can fake a hanging, and a Lot of corpses.
But this story is a lot more than that. It also shows the beginning stages of fingerprinting. There is a lot of page time given to Carlyle’s daughter fighting for women’s rights and trying to get elected in the LCC. And there is the romance between her and Matthew. All of this is done very satisfactory in only 200 pages.
The mystery itself was just fine, though a bit too obvious. The fact that all potential suspects got murdered one by one made it even more clear that indeed the people I suspected from the start were responsible. And I had hoped that the motive might have been a bit more interesting.
But that doesn’t make this book any less enjoyable. The characters are just great, and both their banter and discussions are a joy to read. Having both a man of science and a man of religion at the center of the case, and the author not favoring either perspective, gives a nicely rounded narrative.
A great series I would highly recommend if you like your historical mystery.
The cases are interesting and at first make you think something supernatural is going on. In this case Dr Carlyle finds a man on his slab who has the same fingerprints as a man who was hanged a year earlier… a hanging preacher Matthew was present at. What follows is an investigation into how one can fake a hanging, and a Lot of corpses.
But this story is a lot more than that. It also shows the beginning stages of fingerprinting. There is a lot of page time given to Carlyle’s daughter fighting for women’s rights and trying to get elected in the LCC. And there is the romance between her and Matthew. All of this is done very satisfactory in only 200 pages.
The mystery itself was just fine, though a bit too obvious. The fact that all potential suspects got murdered one by one made it even more clear that indeed the people I suspected from the start were responsible. And I had hoped that the motive might have been a bit more interesting.
But that doesn’t make this book any less enjoyable. The characters are just great, and both their banter and discussions are a joy to read. Having both a man of science and a man of religion at the center of the case, and the author not favoring either perspective, gives a nicely rounded narrative.
A great series I would highly recommend if you like your historical mystery.
November 30, 2020
The second in the Carlyle & West Victorian mysteries. This one begins with the suspicious death of a man who, according to the records, had supposedly been hanged a year previously. How could this be? As the bodies mount up it’s up to Dr Carlyle and local clergyman, Matthew West, to get to the bottom of the matter.
Having read the first book in the series, Interviewing the Dead, I was looking forward to reading the second one. I can confirm it’s another fun, entertaining and easy read combining fact with fiction. It touches on women’s roles in politics and the science of fingerprinting. Carlyle and West make a great intrepid detective duo and it has a good plot line which kept me turning the pages. I like that there is a human interest story running alongside the mystery, too - it makes the story feel a little more real. I would have no hesitation in recommending this series to historical fiction/thriller fans.
Having read the first book in the series, Interviewing the Dead, I was looking forward to reading the second one. I can confirm it’s another fun, entertaining and easy read combining fact with fiction. It touches on women’s roles in politics and the science of fingerprinting. Carlyle and West make a great intrepid detective duo and it has a good plot line which kept me turning the pages. I like that there is a human interest story running alongside the mystery, too - it makes the story feel a little more real. I would have no hesitation in recommending this series to historical fiction/thriller fans.
August 25, 2020
“Death Comes But Twice” is the second book in David Field’s Carlyle and West series, set in Victorian London. Wesleyan preacher Matthew West and surgeon James Carlyle are once again called on to help the police solve a case. A freshly-murdered body has been found which appears to be that of a man who was executed for arson and murder a year previously. The fingerprints are an exact match – but fingerprinting is still in its infancy, can they be absolutely certain that it really is the same person, and if it is, how on earth did he survive the hanging? As West was the cleric present at the execution, he has a particular interest in solving the case.
Matthew continues his courtship of Carlyle’s daughter Adelaide, who herself continues her bid to become the first woman elected to the LCC, adding extra romantic and historical interest to a lively, fast paced story with an alarmingly high body count (I wonder, if every fictional death in Victorian London had been a real one, would there have been anyone left in the city by the end of the period?). There are some excellent characters – Mary Mitchell was my favourite – and great plotting.
Matthew continues his courtship of Carlyle’s daughter Adelaide, who herself continues her bid to become the first woman elected to the LCC, adding extra romantic and historical interest to a lively, fast paced story with an alarmingly high body count (I wonder, if every fictional death in Victorian London had been a real one, would there have been anyone left in the city by the end of the period?). There are some excellent characters – Mary Mitchell was my favourite – and great plotting.
September 17, 2020
1893 England great strides are being made in the field of forensic science. The art of finger printing as an aid to assisting forensics is in the baby stages but getting support from all. Dr Carlyle and his daughter are working in the morgue trying to find out as much as possible about a murderer who has now died twice!
Adelaide is herself a pioneer as a woman in the field is unique. On another note, she is hoping to put herself forward as a candidate for the local elections and this again has created waves because women are now only able to vote, and that too only if they own property in their own right.
The story of Adelaide, and the elections and the on off romance with Pastor Matthew West is one story and the other is the investigation into how and why Skuja was apparently hanged, did not die but died again later in a murder incident. Who helped Skuja to escape the hangman's noose and when it is slowly revealed that bigger names are involved the plot widens and becomes more complicated by the day.
Old fashioned detection work but thoroughly enjoyable as the setting is old English style. A touch of romance adds interest too.
Adelaide is herself a pioneer as a woman in the field is unique. On another note, she is hoping to put herself forward as a candidate for the local elections and this again has created waves because women are now only able to vote, and that too only if they own property in their own right.
The story of Adelaide, and the elections and the on off romance with Pastor Matthew West is one story and the other is the investigation into how and why Skuja was apparently hanged, did not die but died again later in a murder incident. Who helped Skuja to escape the hangman's noose and when it is slowly revealed that bigger names are involved the plot widens and becomes more complicated by the day.
Old fashioned detection work but thoroughly enjoyable as the setting is old English style. A touch of romance adds interest too.
August 21, 2020
London, 1893
When doctor James Carlyle is given a dead body to investigate, he makes a shocking discovery Innovative fingerprinting techniques reveal the dead man was Artus Skuja. But Skuja was hanged a year ago. Carlyle discovers that his new friend, local preacher Matthew West was present at the hanging, and seeks out his help in solving the mystery. And when more deaths occur, it seems a larger plot could be at large.
This is the second book in this page turning series & it could easily be read on its own. A very well researched book that grabbed my interest at the start & I was engrossed all the way through. Strong characters who had depth, I really liked James & Matthew. The pace is very good & all in all a very good captivating read. My thanks to NetGalley & Sapere for an early copy. I look forward to more in the series
When doctor James Carlyle is given a dead body to investigate, he makes a shocking discovery Innovative fingerprinting techniques reveal the dead man was Artus Skuja. But Skuja was hanged a year ago. Carlyle discovers that his new friend, local preacher Matthew West was present at the hanging, and seeks out his help in solving the mystery. And when more deaths occur, it seems a larger plot could be at large.
This is the second book in this page turning series & it could easily be read on its own. A very well researched book that grabbed my interest at the start & I was engrossed all the way through. Strong characters who had depth, I really liked James & Matthew. The pace is very good & all in all a very good captivating read. My thanks to NetGalley & Sapere for an early copy. I look forward to more in the series
April 24, 2021
it was easy.
the answer was obvious but the figuring it out was well done. the romance was obnoxious. i feel bad for the curate’s wife. matthew did more in this mystery than the last. and the reveal of the murderer was more traditionally timed (which i prefer). what sort of twist to the style will happen in the next book?
the answer was obvious but the figuring it out was well done. the romance was obnoxious. i feel bad for the curate’s wife. matthew did more in this mystery than the last. and the reveal of the murderer was more traditionally timed (which i prefer). what sort of twist to the style will happen in the next book?
August 25, 2020
This book was enjoyable and engaging, sadly at times it felt predictable almost like I have read it before.
It had engaging characters that have a happy ending in as much as it has everything needed for a mystery.
I still enjoyed the book and it would be the perfect introduction to the genre. There is also need to read the previous book to grasp this one.
The author has written a wonderful book, it just wasn’t for me.
It had engaging characters that have a happy ending in as much as it has everything needed for a mystery.
I still enjoyed the book and it would be the perfect introduction to the genre. There is also need to read the previous book to grasp this one.
The author has written a wonderful book, it just wasn’t for me.
September 18, 2020
Death Comes But Twice is the second instalment of Field's Carlyle and West Victorian Mystery Series.
It has a nice introduction to the characters which is helpful if you haven't read the first but also a nice refresher if you have.
Matthew West the local preacher is once again drawn in to unusual circumstances when surgeon Carlyle asks for his help upon the murder of a man who was believed to already be dead and West had been present at the original hanging so how was this man now in the morgue?
As more people are murdered the duo along with Adelaide (Carlyle's daughter) and Inspector Jennings begin to worry West may be a target.
I already liked West and Carlyle from the first book but thoroughly enjoyed how their relationship developed in this instalment. Adelaide also became a much more prominent character and I found myself cheering her on in her own mission which I won't spoil for anyone. The additional thread of the possible romance between West and Adelaide provides some light hearted humour and I am looking forward to seeing it develop in the next book. Additional characters such as Mary were great, you can't help but be amused by some of her antics and how Adelaide reacts to them.
This is a great storyline which makes you think about how far we have come in terms of forensics and justice and Field has explored these subjects through this book.
I found it really interesting to read about the development of forensics such as fingerprinting and how it was developed as Carlyle, Adelaide and Jennings begin collecting samples and experimenting with fingerprint matches.
Field weaves historical fact into fiction such as the inclusion of the hangman Billingham, I wasn't aware he was a real person until I read the authors note at the end but I like how Field includes facts in to his mysteries. I enjoy Field's writing style and have found this series to be a fun easy to read mystery series.
It has a nice introduction to the characters which is helpful if you haven't read the first but also a nice refresher if you have.
Matthew West the local preacher is once again drawn in to unusual circumstances when surgeon Carlyle asks for his help upon the murder of a man who was believed to already be dead and West had been present at the original hanging so how was this man now in the morgue?
As more people are murdered the duo along with Adelaide (Carlyle's daughter) and Inspector Jennings begin to worry West may be a target.
I already liked West and Carlyle from the first book but thoroughly enjoyed how their relationship developed in this instalment. Adelaide also became a much more prominent character and I found myself cheering her on in her own mission which I won't spoil for anyone. The additional thread of the possible romance between West and Adelaide provides some light hearted humour and I am looking forward to seeing it develop in the next book. Additional characters such as Mary were great, you can't help but be amused by some of her antics and how Adelaide reacts to them.
This is a great storyline which makes you think about how far we have come in terms of forensics and justice and Field has explored these subjects through this book.
I found it really interesting to read about the development of forensics such as fingerprinting and how it was developed as Carlyle, Adelaide and Jennings begin collecting samples and experimenting with fingerprint matches.
Field weaves historical fact into fiction such as the inclusion of the hangman Billingham, I wasn't aware he was a real person until I read the authors note at the end but I like how Field includes facts in to his mysteries. I enjoy Field's writing style and have found this series to be a fun easy to read mystery series.
October 3, 2021
Enjoyable but not as good as it could be.
I enjoyed this enough to go on to read the next but I am irritated by the overuse of modern idioms and vernacular. Background is quite good but some loose plotting along with the dialogue, let it down. It could partly be my frame of I nd though and all reviews are just opinion and subject ive of course. course
For me it's not in the same league as Ann Perry's though I enjoyed the later stories she wrote less than the earlier ones. I prefer J.C. Briggs books of Charles Dickens era better too and Mary Kingswood's set in earlier years are very good too with many of them combining romance with crime solving and they have more engaging characters. I wanted to like Mathew and Adelaide more and be more engaged with them but I find them a bit lacking. Again that's only my subjective view. I readily admit I am unlikely to be able to write even half as well, especially dialogue. I would love doing the background research but putting that into a readable and enjoyable story is something else entirely and plotting would probably be another challenge I'd be unlikely to risen to
I enjoyed this enough to go on to read the next but I am irritated by the overuse of modern idioms and vernacular. Background is quite good but some loose plotting along with the dialogue, let it down. It could partly be my frame of I nd though and all reviews are just opinion and subject ive of course. course
For me it's not in the same league as Ann Perry's though I enjoyed the later stories she wrote less than the earlier ones. I prefer J.C. Briggs books of Charles Dickens era better too and Mary Kingswood's set in earlier years are very good too with many of them combining romance with crime solving and they have more engaging characters. I wanted to like Mathew and Adelaide more and be more engaged with them but I find them a bit lacking. Again that's only my subjective view. I readily admit I am unlikely to be able to write even half as well, especially dialogue. I would love doing the background research but putting that into a readable and enjoyable story is something else entirely and plotting would probably be another challenge I'd be unlikely to risen to
September 1, 2020
David Field's Death Comes but Twice is the second "Carlyle & West" historical mystery set in Victorian England. I found the first title in the series, Interviewing the Dead, an uneven read in a series that had the possibility of becoming richer in additional volumes. Death Comes but Twice is a stronger title than Interviewing the Dead, but it still feels as if the series hasn't hit its stride. Again, the potential for interesting tensions between rationalism and faith—the central characters are a Wesleyan minister and a surgeon/anatomist—isn't used as effectively as it might be. Add in a not-altogether-believable romance—the minister and the surgeon's fiercely independent and agnostic daughter—and the reader is left with an assortment of unmet possibilities. A third volume is due out, and I'll read that one, but without more depth and tension, that may be my last read in this series, even if new volumes follow.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions are my own.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions are my own.
September 1, 2020
Death Comes But Twice
First and foremost, a large thank you to David Field and Sapere Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Set in an interesting time period of the beginnings of fingerprinting and women getting into politics, it uses these as a good backdrop to the story.
This book was enjoyable and engaging, sadly at times, it felt predictable almost like I have read it before.
It had engaging characters that have a happy ending in as much as it has everything needed for a mystery.
I still enjoyed the book and it would be the perfect introduction to the genre. There is also a need to read the previous book to grasp this one. I like the characters and the inventive way they used to get fingerprints. It honestly never gripped me liked I was hoping it would but I’m looking forward to the next mystery.
First and foremost, a large thank you to David Field and Sapere Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Set in an interesting time period of the beginnings of fingerprinting and women getting into politics, it uses these as a good backdrop to the story.
This book was enjoyable and engaging, sadly at times, it felt predictable almost like I have read it before.
It had engaging characters that have a happy ending in as much as it has everything needed for a mystery.
I still enjoyed the book and it would be the perfect introduction to the genre. There is also a need to read the previous book to grasp this one. I like the characters and the inventive way they used to get fingerprints. It honestly never gripped me liked I was hoping it would but I’m looking forward to the next mystery.
August 27, 2020
I believe that I actually enjoyed this story more than the first book in the series probably due to the characters being developed and their interactions with one another. It opens with a problem in that the police have a recently dead body of a man.....one who was hanged some time ago. This introduces us also to the latest discovery of finger prints in Scotland Yard and the ongoing work between Dr Carlyle, Jennings of the Yard and the Rev. West, along with the doctor's irascible daughter Adelaide. Again we are given a good in depth description of London at that time with the variety of its inhabitants and goings on. If you a good historical mystery, then I would certainly recommend this book and the series overall.
Thanks to Sapere books for the ARC to review.
Thanks to Sapere books for the ARC to review.
August 28, 2020
I received this book from the publisher, Sapere Books in exchange for an honest review. This is the second book I have read in this series and this one was even better than the first. The characters are likeable and have many realistic qualities. The sparring between Matthew and Adelaide is delightful and has me laughing out loud most times. It is neat to see how they are developing the methods that police use now to solve crimes. The plot of the book evolves smoothly and flows nicely, blending a couple of story lines together. This book is a quick read and thoroughly entertaining which is just what a person wants in a book. I love the historical novels and it’s great to read one that isn’t full of lusty characters. I look forward to reading more books written by this author
September 12, 2020
The mystery begins when a man found dead is identified as being a criminal previously hanged for his crimes. So the story begins. Carlyle and West make a team, alongside Carlyle’s father and inspector Jennings to discover what happened.
Carlyle and West make a good, if unusual, team. While I wouldn’t call the book fast paced or a thriller, it kept my interest particularly with the inclusion of The emergence of fingerprint testing as evidence. The relationships between the characters was good. I wasn’t aware until the end of the book that it was the second in the series so I’ll definitely go back and read the first. Enjoyable read.
Carlyle and West make a good, if unusual, team. While I wouldn’t call the book fast paced or a thriller, it kept my interest particularly with the inclusion of The emergence of fingerprint testing as evidence. The relationships between the characters was good. I wasn’t aware until the end of the book that it was the second in the series so I’ll definitely go back and read the first. Enjoyable read.
September 16, 2020
This second in the Carlyle and West series is as entertaining as the first. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Matthew and Adelaide, and the secondary characters, better; they're becoming old friends. The historical facts are well researched, particularly the use of fingerprints as a new form of identification, which we take so for granted today. I like the gentleness of these novels: despite the slow pace of the investigation and the action, it's still gripping, and I read it in two sittings. I'm eagerly awaiting the next in the series. My thanks to Sapere Books for the opportunity to read it.
August 21, 2020
1893 To preserve Dr James Carlyle's theory that no person has the same fingerprints Matthew West and Carlyle must prove that Argus Skuja hanged a year ago is the same man called Arthur Skelton, poisoned recently by digitalis. But then people involved in the hanging of Skuja start to die so West is now in danger as he was the cleric administering to Skuja.
An entertaining Victorian mystery, with its interesting and likeable main characters. Another good story in this series.
Received ARC from the publisher.
An entertaining Victorian mystery, with its interesting and likeable main characters. Another good story in this series.
Received ARC from the publisher.
August 23, 2020
Matthew West, Dr Carlyle, Adelaide Carlyle snd inspector Jennings are back to solve another mystery in London England in 1893.
This crime solving group have great chemistry and makes the read fast and engaging. It is an enjoyable, easy read that makes you like the characters and feel they are people you can know and want to know even better.
The story includes reference to the early use of fingerprint to identify suspects and helps solve the mystery.
A good read and I hope this series continues on.
This crime solving group have great chemistry and makes the read fast and engaging. It is an enjoyable, easy read that makes you like the characters and feel they are people you can know and want to know even better.
The story includes reference to the early use of fingerprint to identify suspects and helps solve the mystery.
A good read and I hope this series continues on.
June 1, 2021
Good read
Really enjoyed this second novel set in 1890's Victorian london,and the adventures of Matthew ,Adelaide and james. Helping to solve crime in some of London's most deprived areas. Matthew ,a young curate, Adelaide the daughter of Dr James Carlyle all band together to help detective Jennings of Scotland yard with some of his most baffling cases. Looking forward to the next one. The author has done a good job with the involvement of the characters and retained much historical fact throughout. Well done.
Really enjoyed this second novel set in 1890's Victorian london,and the adventures of Matthew ,Adelaide and james. Helping to solve crime in some of London's most deprived areas. Matthew ,a young curate, Adelaide the daughter of Dr James Carlyle all band together to help detective Jennings of Scotland yard with some of his most baffling cases. Looking forward to the next one. The author has done a good job with the involvement of the characters and retained much historical fact throughout. Well done.
July 21, 2021
i read this in about 24 hours! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I think I like it better than the first book. That one took me a bit to get into, but I really ended up loving the characters, and I think that is why I liked this one better; I already knew the characters and got to see their relationships grow.
I love the relationship that Matthew has with Carlyle and Adelaide. I really enjoyed seeing the banter between Matthew and Adelaide, and Matthew and Carlyle debate about religion and science.
I cannot wait to read the next two books!
I love the relationship that Matthew has with Carlyle and Adelaide. I really enjoyed seeing the banter between Matthew and Adelaide, and Matthew and Carlyle debate about religion and science.
I cannot wait to read the next two books!
August 23, 2020
Set in 1800s London, Dr James Carlyle examines the body of a man he discovers has a fingerprint match to Artus Skuja- a man executed the year before. The story unfolds to expose a much deeper plot afoot. The book is part of a series. I've not read its predecessor but was still able to enjoy it on its own. Well written and engaging. This one is a recommend. Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to review.
November 16, 2020
I loved the first in this series and I loved this one.
I loved the well thought and interesting cast of characters, the vivid and well researched historical background and the solid mystery that kept me guessing.
I can't wait to read the next installment and I want to know what will be next.
A highly entertaining and gripping read, strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I loved the well thought and interesting cast of characters, the vivid and well researched historical background and the solid mystery that kept me guessing.
I can't wait to read the next installment and I want to know what will be next.
A highly entertaining and gripping read, strongly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
November 17, 2024
Just as good as the first book in this series. Captures Victorian England in great detail, showjng a well researched and thought out book. For an historical crime fiction novel, I was a little disappointed in the need for a romance under current... but feel that's a Me problem, rather than actual fault with this book.
Enjoyed it so much, bought myself the third book in this series.
Highly recommend.
Enjoyed it so much, bought myself the third book in this series.
Highly recommend.
January 28, 2021
I bought and read this book immediately after finishing the first in the series. Ideally read the first in the series first as the characters are established there, this one has more of a story as a result. The characters continue to develop and I enjoyed finding out what happens to them next. Mystery and romance - a thoroughly enjoyable read. Thanks David.
August 20, 2020
Set in interesting time period of the beginnings of fingerprinting and women getting into politics,it uses these as a good back drop to the story.
It holds a certain charm at times,but for me never really gripped me.
It was one of those books I put down too often.
It holds a certain charm at times,but for me never really gripped me.
It was one of those books I put down too often.
August 24, 2020
Another fine installment in this series. I like the characters and the inventive way they used to get fingerprints. I enjoyed it!
I’m looking forward to their next mystery.
Thanks to Sapere for the copy
I’m looking forward to their next mystery.
Thanks to Sapere for the copy
September 1, 2020
I really enjoyed this, fairly fast moving, sadly it again concentrated on Victorian middle class life. Carlyle and West are a good team. I’m wondering now, how Mathew will get on with his new wife. Well worth buying and giving it a chance, you’ll not be disappointed!
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