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Constance Piper Mystery #3
A Deadly Deception
London, July 1889. Eight months have passed since the horrific murder of Mary Jane Kelly. The residents of Whitechapel have begun breathing easy again--daring to leave windows open and walk about at twilight. But when old Alice McKenzie is found dead, throat slashed from ear to ear, the whispers begin once more: Jack the Ripper is back. Constance Piper, a flower seller with a psychic gift, was a friend to both women. With the supernatural help of her late mentor, Miss Emily Tindall, and her more grounded ally, police detective Thaddeus Hawkins, she uncovers links between the murders and a Fenian gang. The Fenians, committed to violence to further their goal of an independent Ireland, are also implicated in a vicious attack in which the Countess of Kildane's uncle was killed. Could the Whitechapel murders be a ruse to make the British police look helpless? Soon, Constance is called upon for help. But there are spies everywhere in the city, and a bomb plot intended to incur devastating carnage. And as Constance is fast discovering, the greatest evil may not lurk in the grimy alleys of the East End, but in a conspiracy that runs from Whitechapel to the highest office in the land . . .
1 pages, Audio CD
First published August 27, 2019
22 people are currently reading
264 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Harris
24 books539 followersFrom the author's website:After studying History at Oxford University, I began my journalistic career on a newspaper in my home town of Louth, in Lincolnshire. I progressed onto a London newspaper, where I became women's editor. From there I moved to become a feature writer on Best magazine. After two years I was made editor of a regional arts and listings publication. This was followed by another two years as deputy editor on Heritage magazine. Motherhood meant a spell as a freelance, contributing to several national magazines, such as Country Homes & Interiors, Perfect Home and Woman's Journal, as well as newspapers such as The Times, The Telegraph and The Guardian. During this time I also worked as a literary publicist and for a documentary-making company. In 2005 I was made editor of Berkshire Life magazine.
In 2000 I won a European-wide screenplay writing competition run by the London Screenwriters' Workshop and the resulting screenplay was optioned by a film company. The script was set in 18th century London and my subsequent research led to the invention of Dr Thomas Silkstone, an American anatomist and the world's first forensic scientist.
Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_...
Author Tessa Harris[5] also made him one of the main characters in her book The Dead Shall Not Rest which uses a fictional character Thomas Silkstone to examine the beginnings of forensic science, anatomy and surgery. The book, which is well referenced, emphasises the difficulty and need of anatomists of the time gaining access to bodies to dissect, and the illegal trade in dead bodies that eventuated due to this.
In 2000 I won a European-wide screenplay writing competition run by the London Screenwriters' Workshop and the resulting screenplay was optioned by a film company. The script was set in 18th century London and my subsequent research led to the invention of Dr Thomas Silkstone, an American anatomist and the world's first forensic scientist.
Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_...
Author Tessa Harris[5] also made him one of the main characters in her book The Dead Shall Not Rest which uses a fictional character Thomas Silkstone to examine the beginnings of forensic science, anatomy and surgery. The book, which is well referenced, emphasises the difficulty and need of anatomists of the time gaining access to bodies to dissect, and the illegal trade in dead bodies that eventuated due to this.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 13, 2019
Jack is back........Saucy Jack, that is.
Tessa Harris takes us back to the East End of London known as Whitechapel. It's mid July of 1889 and people are taking to the streets once again after a string of brutal murders. It seems like anxiety is now at a low simmer with no blaring headlines of death in the darkened corners of Whitechapel for some time.
But, alas, the tranquility is broken when the body of ol' Alice is found in a back street with the same butchering as all the others. Constance Piper and her sister Flo can't help but hear the police whistles. They follow the crowd to the scene. Ol' Alice was a friend of their mother's and the news sends shock waves very close to home. Constance is a flower seller who covers quite a bit of the area on foot every day. But Constance has the eerie gift of being a "whisper mind" who hears the voices of the dead and sees uncanny visions. And it is here that Tessa Harris does a fine job bringing in the spiritual element without any eyerolling or phoney baloney.
Although a series, A Deadly Deception can be read as a standalone with Harris filling in any gaps nicely. Harris also brings in a working relationship between Constance and the Acting Inspector Thaddeus Hawkins. Constance's gift is of the utmost importance to Hawkins who respects the abilities of this young woman.
A Deadly Deception will take on a wide curve in regard to Jack the Ripper this time around. Tessa Harris creates a winding road involving the Fenians who were Irish Nationalists seeking independence. The use of violence and crafty dynamitards will send London into an uproar with the footsteps of Jack and the explosions of the Fenians. Tessa Harris weaves in actual historical facts and situations into A Deadly Deception. If your interest has been long piqued by the Ripper tales, this one is sure to grab you down a long walk with highly creative tones in the dark background. A very winning series by a very talented author.
I received a copy of A Deadly Deception through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Kensington Books and to Tessa Harris for the opportunity.
Tessa Harris takes us back to the East End of London known as Whitechapel. It's mid July of 1889 and people are taking to the streets once again after a string of brutal murders. It seems like anxiety is now at a low simmer with no blaring headlines of death in the darkened corners of Whitechapel for some time.
But, alas, the tranquility is broken when the body of ol' Alice is found in a back street with the same butchering as all the others. Constance Piper and her sister Flo can't help but hear the police whistles. They follow the crowd to the scene. Ol' Alice was a friend of their mother's and the news sends shock waves very close to home. Constance is a flower seller who covers quite a bit of the area on foot every day. But Constance has the eerie gift of being a "whisper mind" who hears the voices of the dead and sees uncanny visions. And it is here that Tessa Harris does a fine job bringing in the spiritual element without any eyerolling or phoney baloney.
Although a series, A Deadly Deception can be read as a standalone with Harris filling in any gaps nicely. Harris also brings in a working relationship between Constance and the Acting Inspector Thaddeus Hawkins. Constance's gift is of the utmost importance to Hawkins who respects the abilities of this young woman.
A Deadly Deception will take on a wide curve in regard to Jack the Ripper this time around. Tessa Harris creates a winding road involving the Fenians who were Irish Nationalists seeking independence. The use of violence and crafty dynamitards will send London into an uproar with the footsteps of Jack and the explosions of the Fenians. Tessa Harris weaves in actual historical facts and situations into A Deadly Deception. If your interest has been long piqued by the Ripper tales, this one is sure to grab you down a long walk with highly creative tones in the dark background. A very winning series by a very talented author.
I received a copy of A Deadly Deception through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Kensington Books and to Tessa Harris for the opportunity.
January 10, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Books and the author Ms.Tessa Harris for the opportunity to read this Advanced Readers Copy of "Deadly Deceptions".
Victorian London comes alive once again in this third installment of Tessa Harris' "Constance Piper Mystery Series".
Victorian London, July 1889 and Jack the Ripper is once again hunting the streets and haunting the dreams of White Chapel residents.
Our Heroine "Contance Piper", a flower seller working on the streets, has psychic abilities. She assists the London coppers once again on the hunt to solve this latest "Ripper" killing.
"Emily", Contance's good friend and now ghost confidante, helps guide in the search on the streets of White Chapel.
Told from 2 distinct perspectives, jumping between Constance and Emily, this is an interesting take on the Jack the Ripper mystique.
Victorian London comes alive once again in this third installment of Tessa Harris' "Constance Piper Mystery Series".
Victorian London, July 1889 and Jack the Ripper is once again hunting the streets and haunting the dreams of White Chapel residents.
Our Heroine "Contance Piper", a flower seller working on the streets, has psychic abilities. She assists the London coppers once again on the hunt to solve this latest "Ripper" killing.
"Emily", Contance's good friend and now ghost confidante, helps guide in the search on the streets of White Chapel.
Told from 2 distinct perspectives, jumping between Constance and Emily, this is an interesting take on the Jack the Ripper mystique.
August 27, 2019
The newest Constance Piper mystery, by Tessa Harris, returns to Victorian London, where women are still being killed by Jack the Ripper, or perhaps a copy-cat killer. The theme this time is the Irish Nationalists who are setting off bombs in London, and being hunted by the Special Branch, formed as the Special Irish Branch to deal with the threat.
Constance doesn’t know who to trust, except for her friend and policeman Thaddeus Hawkins, and her spirit companion, her dead teacher Emily Tindall. Tindall tells much of the story, in her role as omniscient spirit, a gimmick that I’m not particularly fond of. But, like the previous novel, their is much to like here in the atmospheric setting.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Constance doesn’t know who to trust, except for her friend and policeman Thaddeus Hawkins, and her spirit companion, her dead teacher Emily Tindall. Tindall tells much of the story, in her role as omniscient spirit, a gimmick that I’m not particularly fond of. But, like the previous novel, their is much to like here in the atmospheric setting.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 12, 2025
The streets of Victorian London are clothed in shadows and secrets in Tessa Harris’s gripping new mystery featuring flower seller Constance Piper …
London, July 1889. Eight months have passed since the horrific murder of Mary Jane Kelly. The residents of Whitechapel have begun breathing easy again—daring to leave windows open and walk about at twilight. But when old Alice McKenzie is found dead, throat slashed from ear to ear, the whispers begin once more: Jack the Ripper is back.
Constance Piper, a flower seller with a psychic gift, was a friend to both women. With the supernatural help of her late mentor, Miss Emily Tindall, and her more grounded ally, police detective Thaddeus Hawkins, she uncovers links between the murders and a Fenian gang. The Fenians, committed to violence to further their goal of an independent Ireland, are also implicated in a vicious attack in which the Countess of Kildane’s uncle was killed. Could the Whitechapel murders be a ruse to make the British police look helpless?
Soon, Constance is called upon for help. But there are spies everywhere in the city, and a bomb plot intended to incur devastating carnage. And as Constance is fast discovering, the greatest evil may not lurk in the grimy alleys of the East End, but in a conspiracy that runs from Whitechapel to the highest office in the land.
My thoughts
Would I recommend it? Yes
Will I read more of this series? yes, in fact I'm so looking forward to the next one when it comes out.
Will I read more of this author? Yes
Every time I read this series, and it keeps getting better with each book, and the characters become more real, this author not only knows how to write but she also does her research for that time period which is the Victorian London and the setting of Jack the Ripper. That was other thing that drew me to this series and how will the author writes. Another thing is not only is this a historical mystery but it has a touch of the paranormal as well. And as your reading it the series is told in two different perspectives. Which is Constance and other one is Miss Emily Tindall. And the more you read the more you begin to understand that there is more going on behind the scenes then meets the eye but to find out what you have to read the series for yourself. With that said I want to think NetGalley and Kensington for letting me read and review it because this is one of my favorite series to read .
London, July 1889. Eight months have passed since the horrific murder of Mary Jane Kelly. The residents of Whitechapel have begun breathing easy again—daring to leave windows open and walk about at twilight. But when old Alice McKenzie is found dead, throat slashed from ear to ear, the whispers begin once more: Jack the Ripper is back.
Constance Piper, a flower seller with a psychic gift, was a friend to both women. With the supernatural help of her late mentor, Miss Emily Tindall, and her more grounded ally, police detective Thaddeus Hawkins, she uncovers links between the murders and a Fenian gang. The Fenians, committed to violence to further their goal of an independent Ireland, are also implicated in a vicious attack in which the Countess of Kildane’s uncle was killed. Could the Whitechapel murders be a ruse to make the British police look helpless?
Soon, Constance is called upon for help. But there are spies everywhere in the city, and a bomb plot intended to incur devastating carnage. And as Constance is fast discovering, the greatest evil may not lurk in the grimy alleys of the East End, but in a conspiracy that runs from Whitechapel to the highest office in the land.
My thoughts
Would I recommend it? Yes
Will I read more of this series? yes, in fact I'm so looking forward to the next one when it comes out.
Will I read more of this author? Yes
Every time I read this series, and it keeps getting better with each book, and the characters become more real, this author not only knows how to write but she also does her research for that time period which is the Victorian London and the setting of Jack the Ripper. That was other thing that drew me to this series and how will the author writes. Another thing is not only is this a historical mystery but it has a touch of the paranormal as well. And as your reading it the series is told in two different perspectives. Which is Constance and other one is Miss Emily Tindall. And the more you read the more you begin to understand that there is more going on behind the scenes then meets the eye but to find out what you have to read the series for yourself. With that said I want to think NetGalley and Kensington for letting me read and review it because this is one of my favorite series to read .
November 12, 2019
For the many fans who have fallen in love with the Constance Piper series, you will be happy to know that this third installment is just as great as the first two.
Yes, this is all about the psychic flower seller who is called upon to solve murders. This time Constance, just like the rest of Whitechapel, is getting over the horror that Jack the Ripper brought into their daily lives.
It is July 1889. Mary Jane Kelly (a murder so horrific it is still talked about in our day) was brutally murdered by The Ripper eight months ago. His swan song, so to speak, seeing as that the never-caught serial killer just stopped out of the blue after Mary Jane experienced the most evil side of him. Whitechapel is much calmer now; however, when a much older woman by the name of Alice McKenzie is found dead, throat slashed, residents of the area once again go back to locking their windows and hoping the horror is not him, striking again.
Constance called herself a friend to Mary Jane and Alice, and with the help of both her deceased mentor, and police detective Thaddeus Hawkins, she begins to use her gifts to uncover links between the murder and a gang whose members focus on creating an independent Ireland.
From a bomb plot to Whitechapel’s murky streets, all the way up to a place of supreme power in England, Constance delves into all types of locales and does everything she can to bring the killer to light as fast as possible.
I love this time period. I love anything to do with The Ripper. And Tessa Harris, yet again, offers up another unforgettable gem.
Yes, this is all about the psychic flower seller who is called upon to solve murders. This time Constance, just like the rest of Whitechapel, is getting over the horror that Jack the Ripper brought into their daily lives.
It is July 1889. Mary Jane Kelly (a murder so horrific it is still talked about in our day) was brutally murdered by The Ripper eight months ago. His swan song, so to speak, seeing as that the never-caught serial killer just stopped out of the blue after Mary Jane experienced the most evil side of him. Whitechapel is much calmer now; however, when a much older woman by the name of Alice McKenzie is found dead, throat slashed, residents of the area once again go back to locking their windows and hoping the horror is not him, striking again.
Constance called herself a friend to Mary Jane and Alice, and with the help of both her deceased mentor, and police detective Thaddeus Hawkins, she begins to use her gifts to uncover links between the murder and a gang whose members focus on creating an independent Ireland.
From a bomb plot to Whitechapel’s murky streets, all the way up to a place of supreme power in England, Constance delves into all types of locales and does everything she can to bring the killer to light as fast as possible.
I love this time period. I love anything to do with The Ripper. And Tessa Harris, yet again, offers up another unforgettable gem.
January 14, 2020
https://openbooksociety.com/article/a...
A Deadly Deception
Constance Piper Mystery #3
By Tessa Harris
ISBN#9781496706607
http://www.tessaharrisauthor.com/
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
London, July 1889. Eight months have passed since the horrific murder of Mary Jane Kelly. The residents of Whitechapel have begun breathing easy again–daring to leave windows open and walk about at twilight. But when old Alice Mackenzie is found dead, throat slashed almost from ear to ear, the whispers begin once more: Jack the Ripper is back.
Constance Piper, a flower seller with a psychic gift, was a friend to both women. With the supernatural help of her late mentor, Miss Emily Tindall, and her more grounded ally, police detective Thaddeus Hawkins, she uncovers links between the murders and a Fenian gang. The Fenians, committed to violence to further their goal of an independent Ireland, are also implicated in a vicious attack in which the Countess of Kildane’s uncle was killed. Could the Whitechapel murders be a ruse to make the British police look helpless?
Soon, Constance is called upon for help. But there are spies everywhere in the city, and a bomb plot intended to incur devastating carnage. And as Constance is fast discovering, the greatest evil may not lurk in the grimy alleys of the East End, but in a conspiracy that runs from Whitechapel to the highest office in the land . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
Tessa Harris’s A Deadly Deception, the third book in the Constance Piper Mystery series, dives into the darker side of Victorian England and turns the Jack the Ripper mystique on its head.
Flower seller Constance Piper is devastated when her mother’s friend Alice is murdered, much in the same fashion as Jack the Ripper’s victims. Has the notorious killer returned to Whitechapel to wreak havoc? When connections between the Fenians (Irish Nationalists) and the murders arise, Constance, with the help of her spirit guide Emily and her friend Acting Inspector Thaddeus Hawkins, finds that there are powerful forces at work in London.
A Deadly Deception tells a complex, convoluted tale of murder and corruption. It is not difficult to follow, but it is not particularly light reading either. I read a lot of historical mysteries and fiction, and I appreciate that Harris weaves a great deal of real people and events into the story, but she also takes a lot of liberties with Jack the Ripper and his victims. However, since no one really knows Jack’s identity, Harris may have stumbled on the truth. Who knows? So many of the historical mysteries I read focus on an aristocratic protagonist, but Constance is working class, providing a fresh perspective to the Victorian Era. The setting is gritty, and, though the descriptions are not overly graphic, the story does not shy away from the plight of the poor.
As much as I want to, I just cannot seem to warm up to Constance…or most of the other characters. Everyone appears to want to undermine everyone around them and is not very appealing. Hawkins is the exception; I like his sense of justice and willingness to be a voice for the unfortunate. Emily’s narrative provides much of the important information in the story, but I do not like that Constance seems to rely on Emily’s supernatural guidance instead of thinking for herself.
A Deadly Deception is an interesting read, I just do not find it particularly compelling.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
A Deadly Deception
Constance Piper Mystery #3
By Tessa Harris
ISBN#9781496706607
http://www.tessaharrisauthor.com/
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Daniele
Synopsis:
London, July 1889. Eight months have passed since the horrific murder of Mary Jane Kelly. The residents of Whitechapel have begun breathing easy again–daring to leave windows open and walk about at twilight. But when old Alice Mackenzie is found dead, throat slashed almost from ear to ear, the whispers begin once more: Jack the Ripper is back.
Constance Piper, a flower seller with a psychic gift, was a friend to both women. With the supernatural help of her late mentor, Miss Emily Tindall, and her more grounded ally, police detective Thaddeus Hawkins, she uncovers links between the murders and a Fenian gang. The Fenians, committed to violence to further their goal of an independent Ireland, are also implicated in a vicious attack in which the Countess of Kildane’s uncle was killed. Could the Whitechapel murders be a ruse to make the British police look helpless?
Soon, Constance is called upon for help. But there are spies everywhere in the city, and a bomb plot intended to incur devastating carnage. And as Constance is fast discovering, the greatest evil may not lurk in the grimy alleys of the East End, but in a conspiracy that runs from Whitechapel to the highest office in the land . . . (Goodreads)
Review:
Tessa Harris’s A Deadly Deception, the third book in the Constance Piper Mystery series, dives into the darker side of Victorian England and turns the Jack the Ripper mystique on its head.
Flower seller Constance Piper is devastated when her mother’s friend Alice is murdered, much in the same fashion as Jack the Ripper’s victims. Has the notorious killer returned to Whitechapel to wreak havoc? When connections between the Fenians (Irish Nationalists) and the murders arise, Constance, with the help of her spirit guide Emily and her friend Acting Inspector Thaddeus Hawkins, finds that there are powerful forces at work in London.
A Deadly Deception tells a complex, convoluted tale of murder and corruption. It is not difficult to follow, but it is not particularly light reading either. I read a lot of historical mysteries and fiction, and I appreciate that Harris weaves a great deal of real people and events into the story, but she also takes a lot of liberties with Jack the Ripper and his victims. However, since no one really knows Jack’s identity, Harris may have stumbled on the truth. Who knows? So many of the historical mysteries I read focus on an aristocratic protagonist, but Constance is working class, providing a fresh perspective to the Victorian Era. The setting is gritty, and, though the descriptions are not overly graphic, the story does not shy away from the plight of the poor.
As much as I want to, I just cannot seem to warm up to Constance…or most of the other characters. Everyone appears to want to undermine everyone around them and is not very appealing. Hawkins is the exception; I like his sense of justice and willingness to be a voice for the unfortunate. Emily’s narrative provides much of the important information in the story, but I do not like that Constance seems to rely on Emily’s supernatural guidance instead of thinking for herself.
A Deadly Deception is an interesting read, I just do not find it particularly compelling.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
July 25, 2019
As soon as I finished reading “A Deadly Deception” by Tessa Harris I instantly wanted to read the next installment of the Constance Piper Mystery series. I have found a new historical fiction mystery series to love. The historical setting of this book is so authentically and smartly written that I found myself transported back to 1889 London and swept into mystery and intrigue right along with Constance and Thaddeus. It’s not often that a book evokes such strong sensory feelings in me, but this one did. “A Deadly Deception” is the perfect read for classic mystery fans who enjoy an exciting and fast-moving plot with plenty of surprising twists and turns to keep you guessing at what will happen next.
Constance Piper is an intelligent, determined, and compassionate protagonist that I liked immediately. It was refreshing and interesting to watch her acknowledge her limitations (often imposed by society) and work around them to achieve her goals. Constance has grit and doesn’t give up. As well, Thaddeus, a police detective who yet again seeks her help, is the perfect compliment to Constance and I can’t wait to see where their blossoming romantic relationship takes them, or how they’ll solve the next murder mystery together.
I especially appreciated that this story was told from Constance’s point of view and then alternatively from Emily Tidwell’s (Constance’s former mentor/best friend and now ghost). Not only could I sleuth right along with Constance, but I could gather clues and insights from Emily as the plot unfolded. The narrative made this historically influenced mystery addictive and thrilling.
****Thank you to the author, Kensington Books and NetGalley for this ARC which was received in exchange for my honest review****
Constance Piper is an intelligent, determined, and compassionate protagonist that I liked immediately. It was refreshing and interesting to watch her acknowledge her limitations (often imposed by society) and work around them to achieve her goals. Constance has grit and doesn’t give up. As well, Thaddeus, a police detective who yet again seeks her help, is the perfect compliment to Constance and I can’t wait to see where their blossoming romantic relationship takes them, or how they’ll solve the next murder mystery together.
I especially appreciated that this story was told from Constance’s point of view and then alternatively from Emily Tidwell’s (Constance’s former mentor/best friend and now ghost). Not only could I sleuth right along with Constance, but I could gather clues and insights from Emily as the plot unfolded. The narrative made this historically influenced mystery addictive and thrilling.
****Thank you to the author, Kensington Books and NetGalley for this ARC which was received in exchange for my honest review****
August 26, 2019
I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. A Deadly Deception by Tessa Harris is the 3rd book in her Constance Piper Mystery series.
When flower seller Constance Piper’s mothers friend Alice MacKenzie is murdered rumours abound that she was a victim of Jack the Ripper. Constance does not think so and with the help of the ghost of her teacher Emily Tindall she and police detective Thadedeus Hawkins set out to solve a mystery that gets murkier with each clue she uncovers. I found the story a bit hard to get into as chapters are narrated alternately by Constance and the ghost of Emily Tindale, with Constance’s chapters in the first person and Emily’s in neutral third party narration it made for an uneven flow in the story. Emily supposedly communicates with Constance but there was very little of that which made me wonder what was the point of it.
Perhaps if I had read the first two books I would have enjoyed this one more because it has some fascinating historical detail but also things that don’t make sense such as Constance’s not needing to actually sell flowers and at times she seems much more sophisticated than one would expect. Publishing Date August 27, 2019 #NetGalley #DeadlyDeception #TessaHarris #HistoricalMystery #ConstancePiperMystery #Bookstagram
When flower seller Constance Piper’s mothers friend Alice MacKenzie is murdered rumours abound that she was a victim of Jack the Ripper. Constance does not think so and with the help of the ghost of her teacher Emily Tindall she and police detective Thadedeus Hawkins set out to solve a mystery that gets murkier with each clue she uncovers. I found the story a bit hard to get into as chapters are narrated alternately by Constance and the ghost of Emily Tindale, with Constance’s chapters in the first person and Emily’s in neutral third party narration it made for an uneven flow in the story. Emily supposedly communicates with Constance but there was very little of that which made me wonder what was the point of it.
Perhaps if I had read the first two books I would have enjoyed this one more because it has some fascinating historical detail but also things that don’t make sense such as Constance’s not needing to actually sell flowers and at times she seems much more sophisticated than one would expect. Publishing Date August 27, 2019 #NetGalley #DeadlyDeception #TessaHarris #HistoricalMystery #ConstancePiperMystery #Bookstagram
July 22, 2019
LONDON 1889 MURDERS!!!! Jack the Ripper? Harris weaves a great crime drama with these Constance Piper books. Great characters!! Constance Piper is a lowly flower girl with a talent as a sleuth aided by her psychic visions. She has her hands full trying to figure out who the latest murderer is. Her police contact Thaddeus Hawkins again seeks Constance for help with this latest murder case. Love the chemistry of these two characters and can't wait for this to blossom. "A copy of this book was provided by Kensington via NetGalley with no requirements for a review. Comments here are my honest opinion." WOULD READ THIS SERIES IN ORDER.
October 27, 2020
I’ve rated this book 3 stars, which is unfair to the author and the book, this is an example of how a very good book can be ruined by a bad narrator. Tessa Harris is an excellent writer , this was to be the 3rd of her books i had listened to. This audiobook has 2 narrators, one is really good the other atrocious. EVERY sentence ends on an upward inflection. Sentances are broken into segments with the upward inflection used multiple times in a single sentance. Three chapters and i want to scream. Hopefully I’ll come back to this book and trad it instead.
September 1, 2019
I read this book on a beach in brilliant sunshine so it’s testament to the author’s writing skill that I was transported to the grim, shadowy streets of Victorian London and fully immersed in this intriguing and thrilling mystery which effortlessly encompasses Jack the Ripper and Fenian terrorists. Once again gutsy flower seller Constance Piper uses her common sense and determination (as well as a little help from beyond the grave) to solve the crime. Perfect for historical mystery fans and those interested in Victorian history.
October 20, 2019
*3.5 stars
This is the third book in the Constance Piper series.
Constance and Ms. Tindall find themselves in a case where they hope to protect a young boy, catch a gruesome murderer and uncover a sinister plot.
Honestly the story was fantastic and engaging, its just really hard for me to be completely comfortable with the whole supernatural vibe.
***I received an ARC of this novel for my honest review from Netgalley.
This is the third book in the Constance Piper series.
Constance and Ms. Tindall find themselves in a case where they hope to protect a young boy, catch a gruesome murderer and uncover a sinister plot.
Honestly the story was fantastic and engaging, its just really hard for me to be completely comfortable with the whole supernatural vibe.
***I received an ARC of this novel for my honest review from Netgalley.
February 4, 2020
‘Medium’ meets ‘Ripper Street’ in this 3rd installment of the Constance Piper mystery series. Set in Whitechapel, London, just eight months after the final murder attributed to Jack the Ripper, the novel follows title heroine Constance Piper- flower seller and clairvoyant, and police detective Thaddeus Hawkins as they investigate the Ripper-esque killing of one of Constance’s neighbors, and its ties to a violent gang devoted to Irish independence.
I realized after I requested this story that it was a sequel, but true to most mystery stories it works just fine as a standalone. Fair warning- there are references to the 2 previous cases that Constance and Thaddeus have worked on, most notably the first book based on the context.
1880s Whitechapel and all of its gritty glory were great to see from the perspective of the working-class and poor folk living there. Constance and Thaddeus were charming, and I appreciate the slow-burn romance that seems to be teased more and more throughout the novel. Constance is an active participant in the story, but to a believable level, interviewing people and tracking down clues, but also not turning into Sherlock Holmes on the audience. Thaddeus is also believable, willing to work with this woman in an unconventional partnership because her talents are helpful, but at the same time he’s extremely conscientious that anything they uncover can’t be traced back to clairvoyant visions or premonitions. This forces the two to work apart for much of the story and compare notes when possible. There’s also the fact that they have to be careful being seen together, to avoid any suspicion of romantic entanglement that could undermine their findings.
My favorite detail though was the portrayal of the ghost of Emily Tindall, Constance’s mentor and source of supernatural insights. Except on a few rare occasions when Emily is able to “possess” Constance, communication is stifled between the two. The difficulty of the dead effectively speaking to the living, combined with Constance’s own feelings and doubts muddling her abilities, ensure that Constance and Thaddeus receive no easy answers from beyond the grave. At best they receive images or cryptic words that must then be puzzled out like any other lead.
I’m going to decline to go into the plot as I don’t want to accidentally give specific spoilers, but I will say that I enjoyed it and Victorian London and all of its many facets were very well researched.
I would recommend A Deadly Deception to anyone who loves Victorian era mysteries with a supernatural twist, and *very* slow-burn romance.
I realized after I requested this story that it was a sequel, but true to most mystery stories it works just fine as a standalone. Fair warning- there are references to the 2 previous cases that Constance and Thaddeus have worked on, most notably the first book based on the context.
1880s Whitechapel and all of its gritty glory were great to see from the perspective of the working-class and poor folk living there. Constance and Thaddeus were charming, and I appreciate the slow-burn romance that seems to be teased more and more throughout the novel. Constance is an active participant in the story, but to a believable level, interviewing people and tracking down clues, but also not turning into Sherlock Holmes on the audience. Thaddeus is also believable, willing to work with this woman in an unconventional partnership because her talents are helpful, but at the same time he’s extremely conscientious that anything they uncover can’t be traced back to clairvoyant visions or premonitions. This forces the two to work apart for much of the story and compare notes when possible. There’s also the fact that they have to be careful being seen together, to avoid any suspicion of romantic entanglement that could undermine their findings.
My favorite detail though was the portrayal of the ghost of Emily Tindall, Constance’s mentor and source of supernatural insights. Except on a few rare occasions when Emily is able to “possess” Constance, communication is stifled between the two. The difficulty of the dead effectively speaking to the living, combined with Constance’s own feelings and doubts muddling her abilities, ensure that Constance and Thaddeus receive no easy answers from beyond the grave. At best they receive images or cryptic words that must then be puzzled out like any other lead.
I’m going to decline to go into the plot as I don’t want to accidentally give specific spoilers, but I will say that I enjoyed it and Victorian London and all of its many facets were very well researched.
I would recommend A Deadly Deception to anyone who loves Victorian era mysteries with a supernatural twist, and *very* slow-burn romance.
August 26, 2019
First, I like historical mysteries but, in almost all cases, I have a hard time with multiple points of view. It's a special mystery that makes it to my must read list and this series is one of those. I also tend towards the cozier genre but this series, though tied to Jack the Ripper, kept me up way past my bedtime. The sign of a well written book.
It's July 1889 and Victorian London is feeling less stress, feeling free to leave their windows open and free to walk some streets at some times of the day without worrying that it will cost them their life. Constance Piper continues to sell flowers to help keep her mother and older sister off the streets. It's a very hard life for all of them. She is one of the voices of this story. Miss Emily Tindall was not only Constance's teacher, she was her mentor - 'was' being the key word here for Miss Emily Tindall was murdered and the killer is still at large. She can connect with Constance and help guide her in catching killers. And no, it's not over the top spooky, trust me, it works. The third member of the 'team' is Acting Inspector Thaddeus Hawkins. I had no trouble keeping all three voices separate.
When, 8 months after the last Ripper killing, Miss Alice, aka Clay Pipe Alice (because she smoked a pipe) is found slaughtered in an alley, the fears return and Constance is drawn into the case partly because Alice was her mother's friend. Added to the possible return of Jack the Ripper (or is it a new killer on the prowl?) Thaddeus has been tasked with an investigation that focuses on the Fenians and their violent acts of terrorism on London.
Each thread got my attention and carried me along. I can't say if this needs to be read in order or as a stand alone because, while I had read the other series by Tessa Harris - the Thomas Silkstone mysteries (6 in the series) I was new to this one and missed reading the previous two books. I plan to catch up very soon and I will add the next in the series to my must read list.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
It's July 1889 and Victorian London is feeling less stress, feeling free to leave their windows open and free to walk some streets at some times of the day without worrying that it will cost them their life. Constance Piper continues to sell flowers to help keep her mother and older sister off the streets. It's a very hard life for all of them. She is one of the voices of this story. Miss Emily Tindall was not only Constance's teacher, she was her mentor - 'was' being the key word here for Miss Emily Tindall was murdered and the killer is still at large. She can connect with Constance and help guide her in catching killers. And no, it's not over the top spooky, trust me, it works. The third member of the 'team' is Acting Inspector Thaddeus Hawkins. I had no trouble keeping all three voices separate.
When, 8 months after the last Ripper killing, Miss Alice, aka Clay Pipe Alice (because she smoked a pipe) is found slaughtered in an alley, the fears return and Constance is drawn into the case partly because Alice was her mother's friend. Added to the possible return of Jack the Ripper (or is it a new killer on the prowl?) Thaddeus has been tasked with an investigation that focuses on the Fenians and their violent acts of terrorism on London.
Each thread got my attention and carried me along. I can't say if this needs to be read in order or as a stand alone because, while I had read the other series by Tessa Harris - the Thomas Silkstone mysteries (6 in the series) I was new to this one and missed reading the previous two books. I plan to catch up very soon and I will add the next in the series to my must read list.
My thanks to the publisher, Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 26, 2019
Princess Fuzzypants here: When I first met Constance Piper, flower seller, psychic and assistant to the police in Victorian London at the time of Jack the Ripper, the book was filled with atmosphere and tension. I confess it took me a while to figure out who was who but I had no problems this time. In fact, it grabbed me from the very beginning and never let go.
It is months since Mary Kelly was the last Ripper victim. Many hoped that the Ripper was dead. One of the leading suspects had committed suicide and the killings had stopped. Or had they? Another “unfortunate” is murdered and while there are similarities, there are also differences. There are also some deep connections between Mary and Alice, the new victim, not the least being Mary’s son. There are also forces at play and at odds within the policing community. Special Branch is looking to destroy the Fenians and willing to do anything to cushion their personal nests. But the Commissioner of Police realizes secrets are being hidden and if he wants the truth, he will need to use people he can trust, like Hawkins, the friend of Constance.
It is all a deadly mess and danger lurks behind every corner as Constance, aided by her dead friend Emily, and Hawkins try to piece together the story and prevent further bloodshed. Are there forces abroad even more treacherous than the wicked knife of Jack? The reader can almost smell and taste the grime of Whitechapel. The characters are compelling, the suspense is tangible and the story is fascinating. It makes for a great read that you will not want to put down.
Five purrs and two paws up.
It is months since Mary Kelly was the last Ripper victim. Many hoped that the Ripper was dead. One of the leading suspects had committed suicide and the killings had stopped. Or had they? Another “unfortunate” is murdered and while there are similarities, there are also differences. There are also some deep connections between Mary and Alice, the new victim, not the least being Mary’s son. There are also forces at play and at odds within the policing community. Special Branch is looking to destroy the Fenians and willing to do anything to cushion their personal nests. But the Commissioner of Police realizes secrets are being hidden and if he wants the truth, he will need to use people he can trust, like Hawkins, the friend of Constance.
It is all a deadly mess and danger lurks behind every corner as Constance, aided by her dead friend Emily, and Hawkins try to piece together the story and prevent further bloodshed. Are there forces abroad even more treacherous than the wicked knife of Jack? The reader can almost smell and taste the grime of Whitechapel. The characters are compelling, the suspense is tangible and the story is fascinating. It makes for a great read that you will not want to put down.
Five purrs and two paws up.
August 27, 2019
A Deadly Deception by Tessa Harris is the third in the Constance Piper Mysteries series. Although I normally love a good historical mystery I found myself unable to connect with this book. It takes place in London in 1889 around the time of the Jack the Ripper murders. Several women are dead and it may indeed be Jack. Constance is naturally curious and has been helpful to the constabulary in the past. Miss Emily Tindall is Constance' mentor, even now that she has passed away. The problem is that she is not always available. Her friend, Inspector Thaddeus Hawkins, is with the Metropolitan Police, in fact, is temporarily in charge of the Commercial Street station. He seeks her counsel despite the fact his bosses don't like it but she has been warned away from the station so they need to be careful. The Parnell Commission is in session investigating the Irish problem so there is plenty going on in London at the moment.
The mystery was a decent one but it was convoluted and there were a lot of characters to keep straight. There were also several subplots, which made it even more complicated. In short, I am not in love with this book.
I received a free ARC of A Deadly Deception. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #adeadlydeception
The mystery was a decent one but it was convoluted and there were a lot of characters to keep straight. There were also several subplots, which made it even more complicated. In short, I am not in love with this book.
I received a free ARC of A Deadly Deception. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #adeadlydeception
August 27, 2019
This is the first book I have read by Tessa Harris and it certainly will not be my last. The mystery, suspense, paranormal and amazing characters have drawn me in and have me only wanting to read more!
There was such a different twist with the Constance Piper, A flower seller being a psychic and getting help from Miss Emily Tindall, her old mentor and a ghost. Oh yes and that made the story even more fascinating! This time period with the horror of Jack the Ripper, which has fascinated almost everyone since that time, is talked about again as another victim is found dead with the same MO. But there is a lot of unrest with the Fenians, who are stirring up trouble violence in trying to gain the independence of Ireland.
Thaddeus Hawkins is a police detective who uses Constance's help in trying to solve the murders. There seems to be a lot going on though with evil being found in some unlikely places.
Prepare to sit back and not be able to stop once you start this amazing tale written by an author who uses fiction and facts to hold you captive until the end! By the way I love this cover! It sets the mood wonderfully!
There was such a different twist with the Constance Piper, A flower seller being a psychic and getting help from Miss Emily Tindall, her old mentor and a ghost. Oh yes and that made the story even more fascinating! This time period with the horror of Jack the Ripper, which has fascinated almost everyone since that time, is talked about again as another victim is found dead with the same MO. But there is a lot of unrest with the Fenians, who are stirring up trouble violence in trying to gain the independence of Ireland.
Thaddeus Hawkins is a police detective who uses Constance's help in trying to solve the murders. There seems to be a lot going on though with evil being found in some unlikely places.
Prepare to sit back and not be able to stop once you start this amazing tale written by an author who uses fiction and facts to hold you captive until the end! By the way I love this cover! It sets the mood wonderfully!
August 17, 2019
Constance is back- and so, maybe, is Jack the Ripper! Constance, a flower seller, has a gift and she also has the voice of Emily, her beloved and quite dead friend, in her ear. In fact, this is told alternately by Constance and Emily (go with it- it's not woo woo) as Constance tries to find the murderer of her mother's friend Ol'Alice, which was killed in a way reminiscent of the Ripper. Constance has a good friend, ally, and associate in Inspector Thaddeus Hawkins, who frankly takes advantage of her skills. This is less about the Ripper, however, than the Fenians, a violent group which is wrecking havoc in London. I learned a bit (always a plus) and this made the mystery more complex. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. For fans of historical mysteries. While this is the third of a series, it could easily be read as a standalone.
May 30, 2025
In the beginning I was completely enthralled in the book, but towards the mid to later end I wasn't. The premise is creative. The author does an amazing job at depicting late 19th century London. The best characters were Ma and Emily. Not for one second did I like the sister, Flo. Thaddeus was a bit one dimensional. The use of the word 'laddie' became increasingly annoying. I feel like the main character's dialoge (Constance's) wasn't always consistent. She fluctuation too much between young proper woman to someone of the lower class. I also didn't understand how a Lady would intermingle with someone from the lower class so freely. The ending was somewhat of a let down. Overall, interesting concept, but fell a little flat towards the end. The description of the time period was spot on though.
August 14, 2019
This was a very interesting and different historical novel. It is not a short story but one that you won’t get bored with. It was different in that it was written in the common dialogue of lower class London. I had thought it was bad spelling to begin with until it was explained through the story. I also found the way the book was written in the first person for the main character and a ghost telling the remainder of the story a very interesting concept. The characters were all well written and related very well together. I enjoyed the relationship between Constance and Thaddeus and look forward to reading more of their adventures and seeing how their relationship continues to mature. I received this book as an ARC and freely give my review.
August 15, 2019
It was way too slow and this cockney accent made reading this novel even more difficult. I am pretty sure it is just not my cup of tea but there are other people out there that may love this third installments in this series where a girl selling flowers, is helped by a spirit to solve crimes.
È una storia lentissima in cui dialetto londinese della fine dell'800 complica ulteriormente una situazione già compromessa. Sono sicura che il problema sia solo mio e là fuori sia pieno di gente in grado di apprezzare non solo il romanzo, ma tutta la serie incentrata su una venditrice di fiori che viene aiutata da uno spirito a risolvere i crimini.
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
È una storia lentissima in cui dialetto londinese della fine dell'800 complica ulteriormente una situazione già compromessa. Sono sicura che il problema sia solo mio e là fuori sia pieno di gente in grado di apprezzare non solo il romanzo, ma tutta la serie incentrata su una venditrice di fiori che viene aiutata da uno spirito a risolvere i crimini.
THANKS NETGALLEY FOR THE PREVIEW!
August 24, 2019
A very good historical mystery with paranormal elements.
I was fascinated by how well the author mixes historical, paranormal and mystery elements making this book gripping and entertaining.
I like Costance and I think that the entire cast of characters is well written and interesting.
I appreciated a historical mystery that is not set in a high society environment but in the slums of Whitechapel.
I didn't read the previous instalment but I had no issue with the plot or the characters.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I was fascinated by how well the author mixes historical, paranormal and mystery elements making this book gripping and entertaining.
I like Costance and I think that the entire cast of characters is well written and interesting.
I appreciated a historical mystery that is not set in a high society environment but in the slums of Whitechapel.
I didn't read the previous instalment but I had no issue with the plot or the characters.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
September 6, 2019
This is the third book in the Constance Piper Mysteries. First book I read by this Author and it left me wanting to know more about Constance I put the first two books on my wish list The story brings us back to Victorian England. It is a bit different from the typical historical novel because of the connection between Constance and her dead friend's spirit who indirectly helps Constance solve the crime. Following items play a role. Corruption within the security services. Live in Victorian England riddled with crime but also lots of honest people trying to survive. The strong bond between a mother and her child. Lots of twist and turns in this story that keeps you on reading.
September 29, 2022
Well-researched, gritty, and realistic. I didn't initially realize this was not a standalone. However, as any good sequel will do, it worked well by itself. Although I might not personally read more of this author's work, I enjoyed this novel and would definitely recommend it to someone into this genre. As a historical mystery/paranormal story, I though that I would be more interested in this, but it just wasn't my cup of tea.
It worked. It wasn't a bad story, and there wasn't enough to really complain about. I liked it, but didn't love it.
There were some issues- certain inconsistencies with characters, a bit slow, and at times the plot was convoluted.
It worked. It wasn't a bad story, and there wasn't enough to really complain about. I liked it, but didn't love it.
There were some issues- certain inconsistencies with characters, a bit slow, and at times the plot was convoluted.
October 30, 2022
Multiple complex mysteries consolidating into one double-dealing plot. This one wasn't really my cup of tea, the Brigish/Irish politics of the era, but it was well done. It's frustrating, though, how the author skirts the Ripper murders without her characters ever getting involved in identifying the culprit.
Also, I am confused, as in book 1 Mary Jane Kelly was pregnant when she was "killed" by Pauline's sister. If, 8 months later, she wasn't really killed, and they were going to bring in a whole different killer, why is Pauline's sister still in an asylum, and what happened to the baby? The doctor was originally going to adopt it. Why write a third book with such a huge plot hole?
Also, I am confused, as in book 1 Mary Jane Kelly was pregnant when she was "killed" by Pauline's sister. If, 8 months later, she wasn't really killed, and they were going to bring in a whole different killer, why is Pauline's sister still in an asylum, and what happened to the baby? The doctor was originally going to adopt it. Why write a third book with such a huge plot hole?
July 30, 2019
It is now July 1889 and eight months have gone since the Ripper's last victim, Mary Jane Kelly. But now another body has been found in Whutechapel. Constance Piper with her psychic ability, her guardian angel, dead Emily Tindall, and police detective Thaddeau Hawkins are all involved determining the connection of the murders to the Fenians.
I still couldn't take to Constance, and the paranormal aspects of this series. I am sure many readers will love this series but it is not for me.
A NetGalley Book
I still couldn't take to Constance, and the paranormal aspects of this series. I am sure many readers will love this series but it is not for me.
A NetGalley Book
August 21, 2019
Book 3 in the Constance Piper Mystery series finds us dealing with both Fenian and Jack the Ripper conspiracies - or are we? Is anything ever as it seems for our Inspector, flower girl and her teacher/spirit guide?
Tessa Harris has really found her storytelling groove with Constance, Emily and Thaddeus. This was a really tight mystery, neatly tied to book 1, that really kept me guessing until the end. Not all plots were tied up neatly, so I’m really looking forward to the next installment.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Tessa Harris has really found her storytelling groove with Constance, Emily and Thaddeus. This was a really tight mystery, neatly tied to book 1, that really kept me guessing until the end. Not all plots were tied up neatly, so I’m really looking forward to the next installment.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
September 27, 2019
I love the time period and the setting for the latest series from Tessa Harris. More murder and general slummery in the Whitechapel area of East London and it may just be Ol Saucy Jack back for more fun. I really enjoy how the split character point of view gives such insight to things going on outside of what Constance sees. I recommend starting with the first book because of character development, but this book is good by itself. It doesn’t hit a home run the way other books of hers have, but it is a solid read that I really enjoyed.
July 21, 2019
Intriguing page turner. It hooked me right from the beginning. Great characters were a little difficult to keep track of early on, but once I settled into the story it was much easier. I enjoyed the mystery and the tie in with the IRA. The story kept me guessing. It's a must read for anyone who enjoys a good thriller or mystery.
October 13, 2019
Constance and Thaddeus are joining forces again
This time in order to thwart the Finians, Irishman intent on destroying British landmarks in order to get home rule. Ther is more on the supposed Jack the Ripper killings, Emily is still assisting Constance and Flo is still dating the wrong men.
This time in order to thwart the Finians, Irishman intent on destroying British landmarks in order to get home rule. Ther is more on the supposed Jack the Ripper killings, Emily is still assisting Constance and Flo is still dating the wrong men.
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