What do you think?
Rate this book
Victorian Detectives #9
Desire & Deceit
It is 1868, and the body of a young man has gone missing from the police mortuary at Scotland Yard, an event that has never happened before. Who was the mysterious corpse, and why was he spirited away in the night? These are the questions baffling Detective Inspector Stride and Detective Sergeant Cully as they set out to uncover the truth.
Meanwhile, two greedy, unscrupulous, inheritance-seeking brothers, Arthur and Sherborne Harbinger, descend upon London and their very rich dying aunt, each determined to get whatever they can out of her, and prepared to use whatever methods they can to win her favour. And over in her newly rented rooms in Baker Street, Miss Lucy Landseer, consulting private detective, has been presented with her first ever proper case to investigate ~ and finds it is one that will defy even her imaginative and inventive mind.
Set against the hottest summer on record, Desire & Deceit , the ninth outing for this popular Victorian Detectives series, explores how the love of money really is the root of all evil. Once again, Victorian London is brought to life in all its sights, its sounds, its sordid and gas-lit splendour. Another must-read book, teeming with memorable Dickensian-style characters.
" I love the unique style that Carol Hedges bestows on her writing and the vivid descriptions of the time are fabulous"
~ Amazon reviewer
Meanwhile, two greedy, unscrupulous, inheritance-seeking brothers, Arthur and Sherborne Harbinger, descend upon London and their very rich dying aunt, each determined to get whatever they can out of her, and prepared to use whatever methods they can to win her favour. And over in her newly rented rooms in Baker Street, Miss Lucy Landseer, consulting private detective, has been presented with her first ever proper case to investigate ~ and finds it is one that will defy even her imaginative and inventive mind.
Set against the hottest summer on record, Desire & Deceit , the ninth outing for this popular Victorian Detectives series, explores how the love of money really is the root of all evil. Once again, Victorian London is brought to life in all its sights, its sounds, its sordid and gas-lit splendour. Another must-read book, teeming with memorable Dickensian-style characters.
" I love the unique style that Carol Hedges bestows on her writing and the vivid descriptions of the time are fabulous"
~ Amazon reviewer
- GenresMystery
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2021
14 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
September 14, 2021
London during 1868 is experiencing the hottest summer on record, wilting under the relentless heat and resulting odours. Detective Inspector Leo Stride, feeling the lack of his daily caffeine from the usual coffee stalls holders who have forsaken London for the much cooler countryside, is summoned along with his colleague DS Jack Cully to the morgue. There was a problem. A body had gone missing.
Try as they might, a lack of evidence and motive hampers and eventually stalls the investigation.
Elsewhere, two despicable brothers are intent on ingratiating themselves with their rich, elderly aunt who is dying, each trying to outdo the other to be the recipient of her fortune and jewellery collection.
Miss Lucy Landseer has set herself up as a Private Consulting Detective and it’s no time at all until she receives her first client. Then we have Micky Mokey and Little Azella, variety artists appearing nightly at the Varieties Music Hall for the summer season. But who is the real Micky behind his stage persona?
The Replacement, newly appointed private secretary to the Honourable Thomas Langland MP, a position previously occupied by his good friend who seems to have disappeared. The Replacement’s bland appearance and subservient attitude disguises his intelligence and the real reason he has secured this post.
The intricate plot threads are woven together cleverly and seamlessly with engaging, descriptive prose and several twists. Crimes and machinations are resolved convincingly and in a very satisfactory manner. The characters are well rounded, easy to picture. I loved young Harriet and her no holds barred parrot, as well as the regulars. London and it’s inhabitants are evocatively depicted as always. Another very enjoyable addition to The Victorian Detectives series.
Try as they might, a lack of evidence and motive hampers and eventually stalls the investigation.
Elsewhere, two despicable brothers are intent on ingratiating themselves with their rich, elderly aunt who is dying, each trying to outdo the other to be the recipient of her fortune and jewellery collection.
Miss Lucy Landseer has set herself up as a Private Consulting Detective and it’s no time at all until she receives her first client. Then we have Micky Mokey and Little Azella, variety artists appearing nightly at the Varieties Music Hall for the summer season. But who is the real Micky behind his stage persona?
The Replacement, newly appointed private secretary to the Honourable Thomas Langland MP, a position previously occupied by his good friend who seems to have disappeared. The Replacement’s bland appearance and subservient attitude disguises his intelligence and the real reason he has secured this post.
The intricate plot threads are woven together cleverly and seamlessly with engaging, descriptive prose and several twists. Crimes and machinations are resolved convincingly and in a very satisfactory manner. The characters are well rounded, easy to picture. I loved young Harriet and her no holds barred parrot, as well as the regulars. London and it’s inhabitants are evocatively depicted as always. Another very enjoyable addition to The Victorian Detectives series.
September 19, 2021
I've just finished the final outing in this series of stand-alone Victorian murder mysteries, and every one has been a winner. Frankly I could carry on reading them ad infinitum, but I understand that a writer needs a change now and then!
We enter once more the world of Detectives Stride and Cully, in mid-nineteenth century London, and are introduced to a fine array of characters, many new faces and others whom we have met before. Of the latter, I particularly like Miss Lucy Landseer, private detective (or 'detector' as the owner of a exclusive tobacconists calls Cully and his protegée Tom Williams), who is the star of one of the secondary storylines; the main one centres around a dead body without a name, the questions being who is he, who killed him, and why?
Ms Hedges' excellent plotting and characterisation shines out on every page, with her familiar themes rippling through the story: the massive chasm of difference between the haves and the have-nots, the pretentiousness of the aspirational lower middle class, the lot of women of all classes, corrupt MPs with their 'jobs for the boys' (no change there then) and complete disinterest in and disregard for the scum of humanity that floats beneath them (i.e., everyone in the country apart from their families and peers). Then there are the music hall artistes, the conmen, and those who think they can get away with murder.
I very much liked the parliamentary clerk known only as 'the Replacement' (the MP for which he works never does bother to find out his name), and Euphemia Harbinger, an elderly lady facing the end of her life, once celebrated in society, who is more wise and experienced than her grasping, inheritance-chasing family could ever imagine. I also loved Harriet Harbinger, a young girl being constantly overlooked in favour of her twin brother, who has her sights set on the high seas and adventure.
As ever, the threads of the story were satisfactorily wrapped up, but this time I finished it with a certain sadness, knowing there will not be any more. This book is an absolute treat, as are all of the other eight. If you haven't read any of them yet, I envy you!
We enter once more the world of Detectives Stride and Cully, in mid-nineteenth century London, and are introduced to a fine array of characters, many new faces and others whom we have met before. Of the latter, I particularly like Miss Lucy Landseer, private detective (or 'detector' as the owner of a exclusive tobacconists calls Cully and his protegée Tom Williams), who is the star of one of the secondary storylines; the main one centres around a dead body without a name, the questions being who is he, who killed him, and why?
Ms Hedges' excellent plotting and characterisation shines out on every page, with her familiar themes rippling through the story: the massive chasm of difference between the haves and the have-nots, the pretentiousness of the aspirational lower middle class, the lot of women of all classes, corrupt MPs with their 'jobs for the boys' (no change there then) and complete disinterest in and disregard for the scum of humanity that floats beneath them (i.e., everyone in the country apart from their families and peers). Then there are the music hall artistes, the conmen, and those who think they can get away with murder.
I very much liked the parliamentary clerk known only as 'the Replacement' (the MP for which he works never does bother to find out his name), and Euphemia Harbinger, an elderly lady facing the end of her life, once celebrated in society, who is more wise and experienced than her grasping, inheritance-chasing family could ever imagine. I also loved Harriet Harbinger, a young girl being constantly overlooked in favour of her twin brother, who has her sights set on the high seas and adventure.
As ever, the threads of the story were satisfactorily wrapped up, but this time I finished it with a certain sadness, knowing there will not be any more. This book is an absolute treat, as are all of the other eight. If you haven't read any of them yet, I envy you!
August 30, 2021
I chose to read Desire and Deceit as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team and received a copy from the author but this has not affected my review in any way.
It is 1868 and the inhabitants of London are suffering a heatwave. Detective Inspector Leo Stride and Detective Sergeant Jack Cully are summoned to the morgue, which is refreshingly cool, to discover a body has been stolen. They investigate and Cully, encouraged by his report writing, takes in interest in Constable Tom Williams for whom he sees a future in the detective division.
Meanwhile, as is usual in this series, there are other twisty plotlines and stories being told. Euphemia Harbinger is dying, so what is it that brings nephews, Arthur and Sherborne, rushing to her bedside, and what of her mysterious niece, Wilhelmina?
Miss Lucy Landseer has set up in business as a Private Consulting Detective and is delighted when a Rosalind Whitely requires her services in the case of The Suspicious Stepfather.
Then there is Micky Mokey and Little Azella, music hall artists, who share a small room at the top of a house. What is it that strikes fear in to the heart of Micky when he unexpectedly saves Sherborne’s daughter on the street one day?
It is hard to explain just how well this book is written but it is packed with interest throughout every plotline and so well told it keeps the interest and pages turning until the very last. The characters are fabulous and deliciously real and the outcomes in each tale hugely satisfying. Plus, I loved it when there were those little connections between the storylines that just added to the enjoyment. Highly recommended, and although each book can be read as a standalone why not treat yourself and start at the beginning, you can thank me later.
It is 1868 and the inhabitants of London are suffering a heatwave. Detective Inspector Leo Stride and Detective Sergeant Jack Cully are summoned to the morgue, which is refreshingly cool, to discover a body has been stolen. They investigate and Cully, encouraged by his report writing, takes in interest in Constable Tom Williams for whom he sees a future in the detective division.
Meanwhile, as is usual in this series, there are other twisty plotlines and stories being told. Euphemia Harbinger is dying, so what is it that brings nephews, Arthur and Sherborne, rushing to her bedside, and what of her mysterious niece, Wilhelmina?
Miss Lucy Landseer has set up in business as a Private Consulting Detective and is delighted when a Rosalind Whitely requires her services in the case of The Suspicious Stepfather.
Then there is Micky Mokey and Little Azella, music hall artists, who share a small room at the top of a house. What is it that strikes fear in to the heart of Micky when he unexpectedly saves Sherborne’s daughter on the street one day?
It is hard to explain just how well this book is written but it is packed with interest throughout every plotline and so well told it keeps the interest and pages turning until the very last. The characters are fabulous and deliciously real and the outcomes in each tale hugely satisfying. Plus, I loved it when there were those little connections between the storylines that just added to the enjoyment. Highly recommended, and although each book can be read as a standalone why not treat yourself and start at the beginning, you can thank me later.
August 2, 2021
Once again Carol Hedges’ Victorian Detective mysteries reflect the progress, poverty and cunning of the second half of the 19th century. While brothers Arthur and Sherborne lurk in the vicinity of their elderly aunt Euphemia Harbinger like a couple of vultures intent on inheriting her fortune, a cautious replacement clerk observes the suspicious activities of his new boss, the Honourable Thomas Langland MP. As police detectives Cully and Stride do their best to discover why a body was stolen from the mortuary, their lack of evidence means they may have to rely on natural justice.
In contrast, it is refreshing to share the investigations of successful author, Lucy Landseer, as she engages in her first case as a private investigator. In her imaginative help for wronged women, she is a forerunner of the sisterhood of suffragists. Meanwhile music hall entertainer, Micky Mokey, keeps an eye on Sherborne Harbinger; what secret does he conceal?
The corruption and arrogance of many of the characters parallel some in our own society today but the humour of the talking parrot and the delightful 10-year-old Harriet Harbinger give the reader cheer and hope for a better future. The superb plotting and characterisation of this novel is further enhanced by Miss Hedges wonderful vocabulary perfectly expressing the mood and atmosphere of each scene for our delectation.
In contrast, it is refreshing to share the investigations of successful author, Lucy Landseer, as she engages in her first case as a private investigator. In her imaginative help for wronged women, she is a forerunner of the sisterhood of suffragists. Meanwhile music hall entertainer, Micky Mokey, keeps an eye on Sherborne Harbinger; what secret does he conceal?
The corruption and arrogance of many of the characters parallel some in our own society today but the humour of the talking parrot and the delightful 10-year-old Harriet Harbinger give the reader cheer and hope for a better future. The superb plotting and characterisation of this novel is further enhanced by Miss Hedges wonderful vocabulary perfectly expressing the mood and atmosphere of each scene for our delectation.
August 6, 2021
This is yet another brilliant addition to Carol Hedges’ Victorian Detective series. Her writing is so descriptive I find myself transported to the streets of London and following the exploits of the various characters. It was a delight to meet up again with Detectives Stride and Cully and to see the clever young policeman Williams introduced. They have a puzzle to solve as a body has been stolen from the mortuary and they have no leads.
Meanwhile, the deeply unpleasant Harbinger brothers are desperately trying to ingratiate themselves with their Aunt Euphemia with an eye to inheriting her money and jewellery. Elsewhere, ‘the replacement’ has taken over as clerk to The Honourable Thomas Langland MP on the disappearance of his friend. He becomes aware of the less than honourable actions of his new employer.
In another clever plot strand the clever Lucy Landseer, Ladies Private Investigator is tackling her first case and gradually uncovering a web of deceit. We shall surely hear more of the imaginative and intrepid Lucy. Carol Hedges once again highlights the greed and corruption of the wealthier in society and how the poor, as ever, are exploited and overlooked. It’s masterly how the various strands work out and the way that justice is meted out. Mickey Mokey is happy. Read Desire and Deceit to discover why!
Meanwhile, the deeply unpleasant Harbinger brothers are desperately trying to ingratiate themselves with their Aunt Euphemia with an eye to inheriting her money and jewellery. Elsewhere, ‘the replacement’ has taken over as clerk to The Honourable Thomas Langland MP on the disappearance of his friend. He becomes aware of the less than honourable actions of his new employer.
In another clever plot strand the clever Lucy Landseer, Ladies Private Investigator is tackling her first case and gradually uncovering a web of deceit. We shall surely hear more of the imaginative and intrepid Lucy. Carol Hedges once again highlights the greed and corruption of the wealthier in society and how the poor, as ever, are exploited and overlooked. It’s masterly how the various strands work out and the way that justice is meted out. Mickey Mokey is happy. Read Desire and Deceit to discover why!
May 30, 2024
Evokes wonderful pictures
I absolutely hate and despise this format and usually do not read beyond the first chapter of any book written like a film script. A very few authors are able to make me read to the end but Carol Hodges is the only one, so far, to make me enjoy it while doing so. She writes with great accuracy and imagination and I love all the intertwining threads that make a satisfying whole.
I absolutely hate and despise this format and usually do not read beyond the first chapter of any book written like a film script. A very few authors are able to make me read to the end but Carol Hodges is the only one, so far, to make me enjoy it while doing so. She writes with great accuracy and imagination and I love all the intertwining threads that make a satisfying whole.
January 8, 2025
With an edge of the seat ending I nearly fell off of my settee twice. Yet another excellent novel in 'The Victorian Detectives' series. The inspectors didn't solve any cases in this book, it was left to the public or Private Investigator to do all the work. With favourite characters from the past along with some new, this was a truly satisfying read. Historical fiction as it should be and the best book that I have read since the last Hedges novel.
August 31, 2021
Interwoven plots that make a thrilling read.
An easy five stars. I love this series by Carol Hedges which feature Stride and Cully. Lucy Landseer is a character who could feature in a series on her own. All characters are believable and superbly drawn. The three strands weave together cleverly and the outcomes are satisfying.
An easy five stars. I love this series by Carol Hedges which feature Stride and Cully. Lucy Landseer is a character who could feature in a series on her own. All characters are believable and superbly drawn. The three strands weave together cleverly and the outcomes are satisfying.
April 30, 2024
Victorian life
I love the Victorian era with its harsh poverty stricken people making their way in life. The innovations the Victorians gave us live on today and the insight into the police force who are finding a way forward in detective work and technology is a very interesting topic for me. Keep up the good work. Cheers.
I love the Victorian era with its harsh poverty stricken people making their way in life. The innovations the Victorians gave us live on today and the insight into the police force who are finding a way forward in detective work and technology is a very interesting topic for me. Keep up the good work. Cheers.
August 12, 2021
Excellent!!
Thoroughly enjoyed this story! I cannot wait for another book to be written by this author. More please, Carole Hedges!
Thoroughly enjoyed this story! I cannot wait for another book to be written by this author. More please, Carole Hedges!
September 1, 2021
Excellent
Read this book in one sitting. Excellent plot as always with twist and turns to the end. I can’t wait until the next book!
Read this book in one sitting. Excellent plot as always with twist and turns to the end. I can’t wait until the next book!
October 20, 2021
Marvellous
Another wonderful book from the pen of Carol Hedges. I have enjoyed every book in this series, and love (or hate!) each carefully drawn character.
Another wonderful book from the pen of Carol Hedges. I have enjoyed every book in this series, and love (or hate!) each carefully drawn character.
April 10, 2022
Excellent well written book
I have enjoyed the whole series of these books so well written with interwoven storylines great central characters and cunning plot development
I have enjoyed the whole series of these books so well written with interwoven storylines great central characters and cunning plot development
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews