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Raven, Fisher, and Simpson #3
A Corruption of Blood
Edinburgh. This city will bleed you dry.
Dr Will Raven is a man seldom shocked by human remains, but even he is disturbed by the contents of a package washed up at the Port of Leith. Stranger still, a man Raven has long detested is pleading for his help to escape the hangman.
Back in the townhouse of Dr James Simpson, Sarah Fisher has set her sights on learning to practise medicine. Almost everyone seems intent on dissuading her from this ambition, but when word reaches her that a woman has recently obtained a medical degree despite her gender, Sarah decides to seek her out.
Raven’s efforts to prove his former adversary’s innocence are failing and he desperately needs Sarah’s help. Putting their feelings for one another aside, their investigations take them to both extremes of Edinburgh’s social divide, where they discover that wealth and status cannot alter a fate written in the blood.
Dr Will Raven is a man seldom shocked by human remains, but even he is disturbed by the contents of a package washed up at the Port of Leith. Stranger still, a man Raven has long detested is pleading for his help to escape the hangman.
Back in the townhouse of Dr James Simpson, Sarah Fisher has set her sights on learning to practise medicine. Almost everyone seems intent on dissuading her from this ambition, but when word reaches her that a woman has recently obtained a medical degree despite her gender, Sarah decides to seek her out.
Raven’s efforts to prove his former adversary’s innocence are failing and he desperately needs Sarah’s help. Putting their feelings for one another aside, their investigations take them to both extremes of Edinburgh’s social divide, where they discover that wealth and status cannot alter a fate written in the blood.
13 pages, Audible Audio
First published August 19, 2021
117 people are currently reading
1826 people want to read
About the author
Ambrose Parry
9 books461 followersAmbrose Parry is the pen name for husband and wife Chris Brookmyre (known mostly for his crime novels) and Dr Marisa Haetzman, a consultant anaesthetist. It is the latter's interest in medical history that lead to their first collaboration, The Way of All Flesh.
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May 9, 2021
Inheritence
The wonderfully historic city of Edinburgh is home to this atmospheric murder mystery. Set in the mid-nineteenth century the medical advances, social behaviours, class system and exclusion of women from the professions, set the tone for this dark tale of deception and murder.
Dr Will Raven and Sarah Fisher are the two main protagonists who operate out of 52 Queen Street, the base of Dr James Young Simpson, the eminent doctor whose pioneering work with chloroform, especially in childbirth, is professionally renowned. The medical context is pervasive throughout the story and leads into many clever connections and the wherewithal to solve the mystery. The research into the medical, social and historic elements, and their placement within the story, build an authentic narrative that is solidly believable.
While Raven is returning home one evening, he is drawn into the discovery of a dead child pulled from Leith Port, with the body wrapped in a covering that will contain clues. An upsetting theme of unwanted children, baby farming, is an unfortunate reality of the times, where single mothers or poor parents tried to find an alternative life for their children. In the meantime, Sarah is travelling in Europe to meet Dr Elizabeth Blackwell, one of the first qualified women doctors, to seek her advice on joining the profession – an eventual meeting that leaves Sarah deflated and disillusioned.
There is a deep affection between Raven and Sarah although Raven doesn’t want to stymie her dream of becoming a doctor by starting a relationship that would interfere with her studies and be more of a block to her success. During Sarah's travels in Europe, Raven meets Eugenie Todd, daughter of another leading physician Dr Cameron Todd, and they develop a relationship to a point of marriage expectation. When Sarah returns, she discovers how things have changed for Raven and her feelings of loss and envy surface, creating a teasing ménage à trois. I’m not a romance reader but I felt a fascination being drawn into their relationship and I certainly was rooting for one in particular. Raven and Sarah have investigations that require the help of the other, and they provide a great double act as they investigate both mysteries together. Now you’re only asking for trouble!!
This is initially a very slow-moving story and I had to check with my Buddy Ceecee to see if she spotted anything that happened in her reading of the first 40% of the book. You know this is slow when your main discussion comment to your Buddy is - are you doing anything nice this weekend? Fortunately, at 40% the story did gain some momentum and it took the death of the horrible and powerful Sir Ainsley Douglas to get things going. Sir Ainsley’s death is deemed murder by arsenic poisoning and his son and heir, Gideon, is arrested as the suspect. Gideon’s old childhood friend, Eugenie, asks Raven to investigate and prove his innocence, even though Raven and Gideon’s past is acrimonious. If it wasn’t Gideon, and the murder was for the inheritance, then who would stand to gain. The answer explores the legal clause of A Corruption of Blood, which is full of twists and surprises.
I would recommend reading this book because of the wonderful writing, characters and atmospheric tone. The mysteries are intriguing and well thought out but there are conveniences in the plot that take the shine off. The ponderous nature of the first 40% also causes a problem in staying engaged but becomes much better as the novel proceeds.
This was a Buddy read with the special Ceecee and her thoughts on this are well worth reading in her review. Thanks for another brilliant reading experience, Ceecee. I would like to thank Canongate Books and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in return for an honest review.
The wonderfully historic city of Edinburgh is home to this atmospheric murder mystery. Set in the mid-nineteenth century the medical advances, social behaviours, class system and exclusion of women from the professions, set the tone for this dark tale of deception and murder.
Dr Will Raven and Sarah Fisher are the two main protagonists who operate out of 52 Queen Street, the base of Dr James Young Simpson, the eminent doctor whose pioneering work with chloroform, especially in childbirth, is professionally renowned. The medical context is pervasive throughout the story and leads into many clever connections and the wherewithal to solve the mystery. The research into the medical, social and historic elements, and their placement within the story, build an authentic narrative that is solidly believable.
While Raven is returning home one evening, he is drawn into the discovery of a dead child pulled from Leith Port, with the body wrapped in a covering that will contain clues. An upsetting theme of unwanted children, baby farming, is an unfortunate reality of the times, where single mothers or poor parents tried to find an alternative life for their children. In the meantime, Sarah is travelling in Europe to meet Dr Elizabeth Blackwell, one of the first qualified women doctors, to seek her advice on joining the profession – an eventual meeting that leaves Sarah deflated and disillusioned.
There is a deep affection between Raven and Sarah although Raven doesn’t want to stymie her dream of becoming a doctor by starting a relationship that would interfere with her studies and be more of a block to her success. During Sarah's travels in Europe, Raven meets Eugenie Todd, daughter of another leading physician Dr Cameron Todd, and they develop a relationship to a point of marriage expectation. When Sarah returns, she discovers how things have changed for Raven and her feelings of loss and envy surface, creating a teasing ménage à trois. I’m not a romance reader but I felt a fascination being drawn into their relationship and I certainly was rooting for one in particular. Raven and Sarah have investigations that require the help of the other, and they provide a great double act as they investigate both mysteries together. Now you’re only asking for trouble!!
This is initially a very slow-moving story and I had to check with my Buddy Ceecee to see if she spotted anything that happened in her reading of the first 40% of the book. You know this is slow when your main discussion comment to your Buddy is - are you doing anything nice this weekend? Fortunately, at 40% the story did gain some momentum and it took the death of the horrible and powerful Sir Ainsley Douglas to get things going. Sir Ainsley’s death is deemed murder by arsenic poisoning and his son and heir, Gideon, is arrested as the suspect. Gideon’s old childhood friend, Eugenie, asks Raven to investigate and prove his innocence, even though Raven and Gideon’s past is acrimonious. If it wasn’t Gideon, and the murder was for the inheritance, then who would stand to gain. The answer explores the legal clause of A Corruption of Blood, which is full of twists and surprises.
I would recommend reading this book because of the wonderful writing, characters and atmospheric tone. The mysteries are intriguing and well thought out but there are conveniences in the plot that take the shine off. The ponderous nature of the first 40% also causes a problem in staying engaged but becomes much better as the novel proceeds.
This was a Buddy read with the special Ceecee and her thoughts on this are well worth reading in her review. Thanks for another brilliant reading experience, Ceecee. I would like to thank Canongate Books and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy in return for an honest review.
April 23, 2021
We return to Edinburgh for the third time to the household of Dr James Simpson. Dr Will Raven, en route home after attending the tricky birth of twins, witnesses a very disturbing discovery at the Port of Leith. Meanwhile, a newly widowed Sarah Fisher is in Europe trying to arrange to meet Dr Elizabeth Blackwell in the hope of pursuing her fo dream of achieving medical qualifications. She returns to Scotland somewhat dejected and she and Will work together to establish the truth surrounding the death of a key figure in Edinburgh society. The novel shines a beacon on the expanse of social division at this time and the situation for women.
First of all, these novels are so well researched, I love the medical asides which sets the unfolding drama firmly in its historical context and the authors bring real characters vividly to life. This is especially true of Simpson whose vibrant energy bounces off the pages! What a man! All the characters are well portrayed as you immerse yourself in the ups and downs of Sarah and Will’s relationship and their chemistry certainly comes across. Their views seem very modern in outlook and both have a strong moral compass. There are some unpleasant characters in this one and you could justifiably argue that one in particular gets his just desserts. There are some excellent and extremely atmospheric descriptions of Edinburgh and you can virtually smell Auld Reekie in its less salubrious quarters. This is a gritty, dark novel which exposes a very seamy side of life at the time especially with ‘baby farmers’ and I wish I could say it isn’t true ....
I really like the focus is on the situation for women especially those at the lower end of the social scale but you also feel the frustration of women such as Sarah who wish to pursue a career. Sarah’s journey to see Elizabeth Blackwell is symbolic of her hapless journey to achieve this although she does realise that widowhood gives her a good measure of independence which married women don’t have. Some of the treatment of working class women and male attitudes makes me so angry and some things haven’t changed much since then!! The plotting is good with the two seemingly unconnected threads merging well and the twists are good. It’s well written, very much in the style of a nineteen century novel which is especially obvious at the somewhat melodramatic end which is very reminiscent of the times. I love where the title comes from - a legal ability to disinherit in certain circumstances.
On the negative side, I think it’s bit slow to get going and sometimes the authors keenness to get in some medical asides halts the flow. There is one section that oddly backtracks to where Sarah meets Blackwell which jars a bit although I can see why it was done.
Overall, the positives outweigh the negatives as it’s so well written. This is a worthy addition to the series and I look forward to the next one.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canongate for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This was an interesting buddy read with my good friend Peter - here’s to the next one 🥂Cheers buddy!
First of all, these novels are so well researched, I love the medical asides which sets the unfolding drama firmly in its historical context and the authors bring real characters vividly to life. This is especially true of Simpson whose vibrant energy bounces off the pages! What a man! All the characters are well portrayed as you immerse yourself in the ups and downs of Sarah and Will’s relationship and their chemistry certainly comes across. Their views seem very modern in outlook and both have a strong moral compass. There are some unpleasant characters in this one and you could justifiably argue that one in particular gets his just desserts. There are some excellent and extremely atmospheric descriptions of Edinburgh and you can virtually smell Auld Reekie in its less salubrious quarters. This is a gritty, dark novel which exposes a very seamy side of life at the time especially with ‘baby farmers’ and I wish I could say it isn’t true ....
I really like the focus is on the situation for women especially those at the lower end of the social scale but you also feel the frustration of women such as Sarah who wish to pursue a career. Sarah’s journey to see Elizabeth Blackwell is symbolic of her hapless journey to achieve this although she does realise that widowhood gives her a good measure of independence which married women don’t have. Some of the treatment of working class women and male attitudes makes me so angry and some things haven’t changed much since then!! The plotting is good with the two seemingly unconnected threads merging well and the twists are good. It’s well written, very much in the style of a nineteen century novel which is especially obvious at the somewhat melodramatic end which is very reminiscent of the times. I love where the title comes from - a legal ability to disinherit in certain circumstances.
On the negative side, I think it’s bit slow to get going and sometimes the authors keenness to get in some medical asides halts the flow. There is one section that oddly backtracks to where Sarah meets Blackwell which jars a bit although I can see why it was done.
Overall, the positives outweigh the negatives as it’s so well written. This is a worthy addition to the series and I look forward to the next one.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Canongate for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
This was an interesting buddy read with my good friend Peter - here’s to the next one 🥂Cheers buddy!
July 19, 2021
This is a stellar addition to the wonderful Ambrose Parry historical/medical series set in 1850s Edinburgh, an inspiring blend of fact and fiction, featuring the pioneering, compassionate real life Dr Simpson, and Dr Will Raven and Sarah Fisher that reside with him at 52 Queen Street. It immerses the reader in the grim realities of the city, its stench and poverty, the extreme inequalities, the dismal social norms and attitudes to women, and the hypocrisies, inhumanity and cruelties of the rich and powerful for whom reputation is all, cloaking the darker truths of who they really are. Sarah travels to Paris and Grafenberg with Mina in her quest to see the breaking Elizabeth Blackwell, a female doctor, a goal she is aspiring towards.
However, Sarah has her ambitions crushed, leaving her flailing, stranded and lost, wandering where she goes now and struggling with her sense of identity. The shock on her return of finding Will engaged to be married to Eugenie Todd, the daughter of a prominent physician, pulls her into a deeper despair, jealousy and depression, even though her feelings for Will are laced with ambiguity. Settling on the fact she is alone, she focuses on helping the distraught Christina, the maid, who had been forced to giving up her baby to a woman who has now gone missing. Will is in Leith, helping to deliver twins, when a package is fished out, its contents to be revealed to be the horror of a strangled baby. Eugenie has Will helping a man he disliked, the feckless Gideon, the son of Sir Alastair Douglas, who has been arrested for his father's murder and is facing the hangman's noose.
It is only when Sarah and Will begin working together that their different investigations begin to bear fruit and the connections between them begin to emerge, whilst simultaneously underlining the close relationship the two have with each other. Will's support of her has Sarah finding her old zest and ambitions, with the two of them discussing the truths of what they mean to each other. This is a hard hitting, twisted and dark read, of the nightmare realities and tragedies of baby farming, an inevitable consequence of the conditions poor women faced in a political environment dominated by the inhumanity of monsters like Sir Alastair Douglas, even women from wealthy families were not immune. We are given insights into the legal implications of ' a corruption of blood', and the state of the medical community and the science of the period. I must admit that I cannot wait to see how the Will, Eugenie and Sarah relationships develop in the future!! Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
However, Sarah has her ambitions crushed, leaving her flailing, stranded and lost, wandering where she goes now and struggling with her sense of identity. The shock on her return of finding Will engaged to be married to Eugenie Todd, the daughter of a prominent physician, pulls her into a deeper despair, jealousy and depression, even though her feelings for Will are laced with ambiguity. Settling on the fact she is alone, she focuses on helping the distraught Christina, the maid, who had been forced to giving up her baby to a woman who has now gone missing. Will is in Leith, helping to deliver twins, when a package is fished out, its contents to be revealed to be the horror of a strangled baby. Eugenie has Will helping a man he disliked, the feckless Gideon, the son of Sir Alastair Douglas, who has been arrested for his father's murder and is facing the hangman's noose.
It is only when Sarah and Will begin working together that their different investigations begin to bear fruit and the connections between them begin to emerge, whilst simultaneously underlining the close relationship the two have with each other. Will's support of her has Sarah finding her old zest and ambitions, with the two of them discussing the truths of what they mean to each other. This is a hard hitting, twisted and dark read, of the nightmare realities and tragedies of baby farming, an inevitable consequence of the conditions poor women faced in a political environment dominated by the inhumanity of monsters like Sir Alastair Douglas, even women from wealthy families were not immune. We are given insights into the legal implications of ' a corruption of blood', and the state of the medical community and the science of the period. I must admit that I cannot wait to see how the Will, Eugenie and Sarah relationships develop in the future!! Highly recommended. Many thanks to the publisher for an ARC.
August 1, 2021
I really enjoy historical fiction that is based on real characters and events, and this mystery series fits that bill. Set in 1850s Edinburgh, the two main characters, Dr Will Raven and Sarah Fisher, live and work with Dr James Simpson, the man who pioneered the use of chloroform in medicine and surgery. While Will is a young doctor setting out on his career, Sarah is Dr Simpson’s assistant who he has trained to help with minor treatments and in administering chloroform. She yearns to be a doctor, but medical schools in Britain are not yet admitting women, although she is planning to seek advice from Dr Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to attend medical school in America.
When one of Edinburgh’s wealthy citizens, Sir Alistair Douglas is found dead and his son Gideon arrested for murder, Will is asked to look at the case by the young woman he is courting, who is a family friend of Gideon’s and believes he is innocent. Sarah is also asked to help a maid find her missing baby and soon becomes involved in tracking down an unscrupulous woman.
Sarah and Will clearly still both have feelings for each other, although Sarah is recently widowed after a brief marriage and Will is now courting a doctor’s daughter. He also knows Sarah needs to be free if she is to pursue her ambitions in medicine. It will be interesting to see how their relationship evolves over the series. In the meantime, they still work well together to help each other investigate their individual mysteries.
Together the two mysteries focus on many of the legal, medical and social issues of the day for both the wealthy and the more impoverished sides of society. There are some dark scenes as the plight of poor unmarried pregnant women and their babies is highlighted. Although the plot takes a little while to get moving, it’s well written and researched with the sights and sounds of Victorian Edinburgh flavouring the narrative.
With thanks to Canongate Books and Netgalley for a copy to read
When one of Edinburgh’s wealthy citizens, Sir Alistair Douglas is found dead and his son Gideon arrested for murder, Will is asked to look at the case by the young woman he is courting, who is a family friend of Gideon’s and believes he is innocent. Sarah is also asked to help a maid find her missing baby and soon becomes involved in tracking down an unscrupulous woman.
Sarah and Will clearly still both have feelings for each other, although Sarah is recently widowed after a brief marriage and Will is now courting a doctor’s daughter. He also knows Sarah needs to be free if she is to pursue her ambitions in medicine. It will be interesting to see how their relationship evolves over the series. In the meantime, they still work well together to help each other investigate their individual mysteries.
Together the two mysteries focus on many of the legal, medical and social issues of the day for both the wealthy and the more impoverished sides of society. There are some dark scenes as the plight of poor unmarried pregnant women and their babies is highlighted. Although the plot takes a little while to get moving, it’s well written and researched with the sights and sounds of Victorian Edinburgh flavouring the narrative.
With thanks to Canongate Books and Netgalley for a copy to read
June 23, 2021
My thanks to NetGalley and Canongate Books for the privilege of reading the ARC in return for an honest review. This is the third atmospheric novel that transports the reader to the mid-1800s of Edinburgh. A Corruption of Blood continues the brilliant, well-researched series that immerses the reader in the legal and medical aspects of the era and the deep divisions in the social fabric. The characters. both fictional and historical, seem very authentic to their time and place. It explores the challenges of the impoverished and privileged within a well-constructed, twisty mystery.
This novel continues the story of the recurring characters of Dr. Will Raven and Sarah Fisher. They work from the home of the eminent Dr. James Simpson. He is a real-life doctor renowned for pioneering chloroform. Sarah has travelled in Europe to meet Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, one of the first qualified women doctors. Sarah has been well aware of the impediments she faces in her ambition to become a medical doctor in the male-dominated profession. She returns to Edinburgh, downhearted and discouraged. Her goal seems to be impossibly blocked and unattainable.
Raven has just attended the difficult delivery of twins and is present at the discovery of a dead infant, murdered and discarded in the river. During Sarah's absence, Raven has formed a romantic relationship with Eugenie, daughter of a leading physician, Dr. Cameron Todd. They are contemplating marriage. Eugenie pleads with Raven to investigate the death of the powerful and corrupt Sir Ainsley Douglas and prove that her old friend, Gideon, the son and heir of Douglas, is innocent of the murder. He has been charged and will probably hang for the crime. Raven detests the dissolute, arrogant, and idle Gideon from past associations but feels compelled to follow Eugenie's wishes.
Sarah is jealous of Raven's new romantic interest, which adds to her disillusionment of becoming a practicing doctor. A request from a maid sets her on the path of discovering a 'baby farm'. Unmarried girls and impoverished parents believed they were ensuring a bright future for their babies by paying a woman to find good homes for them. Some of the babies were, in turn, sold to unknown homes, but many died from neglect or were killed.
Because of his dislike for Gideon, Raven believes he must be guilty of his father's death in his greed and haste for his inheritance. The legal term 'Corruption of Blood' is explained. Forfeiting the estate and wealth coming to him, the heir would become his sister's young son. Raven needs Sarah to help in his investigation. He finds Gideon's father was much despised. Were there other suspects for the murder? Slowly, the links between their cases are found to have some connection. They uncover a tangled web of deceit, murder and corruption.
The conclusion was disappointing for me, but I believe was true to its place and times. Recommended for readers who enjoy historical fiction based on research and fact, memorable characters, medical history, and a well-plotted complex mystery.
This novel continues the story of the recurring characters of Dr. Will Raven and Sarah Fisher. They work from the home of the eminent Dr. James Simpson. He is a real-life doctor renowned for pioneering chloroform. Sarah has travelled in Europe to meet Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, one of the first qualified women doctors. Sarah has been well aware of the impediments she faces in her ambition to become a medical doctor in the male-dominated profession. She returns to Edinburgh, downhearted and discouraged. Her goal seems to be impossibly blocked and unattainable.
Raven has just attended the difficult delivery of twins and is present at the discovery of a dead infant, murdered and discarded in the river. During Sarah's absence, Raven has formed a romantic relationship with Eugenie, daughter of a leading physician, Dr. Cameron Todd. They are contemplating marriage. Eugenie pleads with Raven to investigate the death of the powerful and corrupt Sir Ainsley Douglas and prove that her old friend, Gideon, the son and heir of Douglas, is innocent of the murder. He has been charged and will probably hang for the crime. Raven detests the dissolute, arrogant, and idle Gideon from past associations but feels compelled to follow Eugenie's wishes.
Sarah is jealous of Raven's new romantic interest, which adds to her disillusionment of becoming a practicing doctor. A request from a maid sets her on the path of discovering a 'baby farm'. Unmarried girls and impoverished parents believed they were ensuring a bright future for their babies by paying a woman to find good homes for them. Some of the babies were, in turn, sold to unknown homes, but many died from neglect or were killed.
Because of his dislike for Gideon, Raven believes he must be guilty of his father's death in his greed and haste for his inheritance. The legal term 'Corruption of Blood' is explained. Forfeiting the estate and wealth coming to him, the heir would become his sister's young son. Raven needs Sarah to help in his investigation. He finds Gideon's father was much despised. Were there other suspects for the murder? Slowly, the links between their cases are found to have some connection. They uncover a tangled web of deceit, murder and corruption.
The conclusion was disappointing for me, but I believe was true to its place and times. Recommended for readers who enjoy historical fiction based on research and fact, memorable characters, medical history, and a well-plotted complex mystery.
October 22, 2021
I hadn't read the previous books in this series, but that didn't matter in the slightest. I quickly understand who is who and what relationships connect the characters.
I liked these characters instantly. Maybe I wasn't entirely convinced of Sarah at first, but as soon as she got involved in solving one of the mysteries, I quickly appreciated her sharp mind and uncompromising attitude. She and Raven are a truly well-written character. They have complex personalities and some flaws that make them remarkable, while their past and experiences influence the decisions they make. Plus, they're both smart and great at solving mysteries. I liked this duo.
I also enjoyed the mysteries Sarah and Raven must solve. Both were well embedded in the historical period in which the book is set. Both mysteries were also truly fascinating, I couldn't wait to get the whole thing sorted out. It turned out that I predicted some things correctly. But it did not take away the pleasure of discovering all the smaller secrets and enjoying the twists.
Some aspects of the mystery are related to newborns and unwanted pregnancies, including crimes against very young children. Just be aware of this if you find these topics problematic. These crimes are not described in great detail, but they can evoke difficult emotions.
I will certainly read more books in this series. I'm really curious to see how relations between Sarah, Raven and Eugenie will develop. And whether Eugenie would join in solving mysteries with the two of them. I think she could bring another interesting element to their investigations.
Thanks to NetGalley and Canongate Books for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked these characters instantly. Maybe I wasn't entirely convinced of Sarah at first, but as soon as she got involved in solving one of the mysteries, I quickly appreciated her sharp mind and uncompromising attitude. She and Raven are a truly well-written character. They have complex personalities and some flaws that make them remarkable, while their past and experiences influence the decisions they make. Plus, they're both smart and great at solving mysteries. I liked this duo.
I also enjoyed the mysteries Sarah and Raven must solve. Both were well embedded in the historical period in which the book is set. Both mysteries were also truly fascinating, I couldn't wait to get the whole thing sorted out. It turned out that I predicted some things correctly. But it did not take away the pleasure of discovering all the smaller secrets and enjoying the twists.
Some aspects of the mystery are related to newborns and unwanted pregnancies, including crimes against very young children. Just be aware of this if you find these topics problematic. These crimes are not described in great detail, but they can evoke difficult emotions.
I will certainly read more books in this series. I'm really curious to see how relations between Sarah, Raven and Eugenie will develop. And whether Eugenie would join in solving mysteries with the two of them. I think she could bring another interesting element to their investigations.
Thanks to NetGalley and Canongate Books for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2022
Another excellent addition to this historical fiction series which apparently doesn't have a name, sometimes shown as two of the characters names, sometimes three, and which is set in 1850s Edinburgh. A very engrossing story which begins with the discovery of a dead infant washed up at the Port of Leith while Dr. Will Raven happens to be in the area delivering a baby. Meanwhile Sarah Fisher is travelling with Dr. Simpson's sister-in-law in the hopes of meeting Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman to receive a medical degree in the United States, and currently travelling throughout Europe. Her hopes to pursue a medical education dashed, Sarah returns to Edinburgh to find that Will is now engaged to Eugenie. If you haven't read the previous books these names won't mean much to you, but I've come to love and admire them. Although I didn't like this book quite as much as the first two, it was still an enjoyable read.
I just can't say enough nice things about this series. The books are obviously well researched and extremely well-written. I invariably learn something new from this series as well as many new words. The locales just come alive and I love to follow the characters who are very well developed. There are a couple of interesting plot lines to follow in this book including the heartbreaking practice of baby farming. The end wrapped up maybe a bit too nicely but I liked it anyway. Really looking forward to the next installment!
Thanks once again to the London Public Library for the loan of this book.
I just can't say enough nice things about this series. The books are obviously well researched and extremely well-written. I invariably learn something new from this series as well as many new words. The locales just come alive and I love to follow the characters who are very well developed. There are a couple of interesting plot lines to follow in this book including the heartbreaking practice of baby farming. The end wrapped up maybe a bit too nicely but I liked it anyway. Really looking forward to the next installment!
Thanks once again to the London Public Library for the loan of this book.
March 31, 2025
The plot here was as far-fetched as those in the first two books in the series, but this was easily the best of the three books so far.
November 2, 2021
It was good to get back to the horrors of Victorian Edinburgh in this, the third in the series by husband-wife team, Chris Brookmyre and Marisa Haetzman.
Sarah Fisher is determined to qualify as a doctor; still an almost exclusively male profession. To further her aims, she travels to Paris to meet Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, who, against all odds, recently qualified. However, she comes away from the meeting feeling more disillusioned and helpless than ever. To make matters worse, when she returns to Edinburgh, she discovers Will Raven engaged to the daughter of a prominent physician.
It is only when Sarah agrees to help maid Christina, who was forced to give up her daughter, and Will first discovers the body of a dead infant in Leith Harbour, then is urged by his fiancee to help acquit a man he detests, who is accused of murdering his father, that the two realise they once again need each other’s help.
Another worthy addition to this highly original series. Once again, Chris and Marisa pull no punches when it comes to describing the depravities and corruptions of the time, cleverly outlining near parallels in the present day.
Sarah Fisher is determined to qualify as a doctor; still an almost exclusively male profession. To further her aims, she travels to Paris to meet Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, who, against all odds, recently qualified. However, she comes away from the meeting feeling more disillusioned and helpless than ever. To make matters worse, when she returns to Edinburgh, she discovers Will Raven engaged to the daughter of a prominent physician.
It is only when Sarah agrees to help maid Christina, who was forced to give up her daughter, and Will first discovers the body of a dead infant in Leith Harbour, then is urged by his fiancee to help acquit a man he detests, who is accused of murdering his father, that the two realise they once again need each other’s help.
Another worthy addition to this highly original series. Once again, Chris and Marisa pull no punches when it comes to describing the depravities and corruptions of the time, cleverly outlining near parallels in the present day.
June 29, 2021
A Corruption of Blood is the third book in this wonderful historical medical mystery series set in Victorian Edinburgh. While each is a complete story, I think the characters and their behaviours will make a lot more sense if you read them in order. I had a good idea what to expect having loved the first two, and while initially I was disappointed that there wasn’t as much medicine in this one, the last part makes up for it, and it turned out to be just as good.
Several months after the events of The Art of Dying, Will Raven is still living at Professor Simpson’s house and happily working as his associate, while Sarah Fisher has embarked on a journey to meet Elizabeth Blackwell, famous as the first woman to obtain an official medical degree, in the hope of emulating her career. Returning home disappointed, she is distraught to learn that Will has become engaged to Eugenie, the daughter of an eminent physician, but must hide her feelings when they are thrown together once more by two unusual cases - the poisoning of a wealthy nobleman, apparently by his son, and the discovery of a dead baby wrapped up in a parcel in the Water of Leith.
The strengths of this series are the atmospheric descriptions of Auld Reekie - from the ostentatious mansions of the haves, to the slums inhabited by the unfortunate have-nots, the intriguing mix of real historical characters like Simpson and Blackwell, with our fictional protagonists Will and Sarah, backed up by a solid well-constructed mystery plot. There’s a fair bit of necessary sociopolitical commentary on the plight of the poor, especially women. I did find the first half a bit slow, with a bit too much focus on the characters’ relationships, but it definitely made up for it in the second half and I liked the way it ended, wrapping up the key plotlines but leaving things open for more adventures. While not particularly gory or violent, this covers some dark and distressing subjects with one particularly horrific scene that is necessary both for the plot and to show the hypocritical immorality of those responsible. 4.5 rounded up for the fascinating and well researched medical details.
I received a free ARC from Canongate Books via NetGalley and am posting this review voluntarily. A Corruption of Blood is published on August 19th.
Several months after the events of The Art of Dying, Will Raven is still living at Professor Simpson’s house and happily working as his associate, while Sarah Fisher has embarked on a journey to meet Elizabeth Blackwell, famous as the first woman to obtain an official medical degree, in the hope of emulating her career. Returning home disappointed, she is distraught to learn that Will has become engaged to Eugenie, the daughter of an eminent physician, but must hide her feelings when they are thrown together once more by two unusual cases - the poisoning of a wealthy nobleman, apparently by his son, and the discovery of a dead baby wrapped up in a parcel in the Water of Leith.
The strengths of this series are the atmospheric descriptions of Auld Reekie - from the ostentatious mansions of the haves, to the slums inhabited by the unfortunate have-nots, the intriguing mix of real historical characters like Simpson and Blackwell, with our fictional protagonists Will and Sarah, backed up by a solid well-constructed mystery plot. There’s a fair bit of necessary sociopolitical commentary on the plight of the poor, especially women. I did find the first half a bit slow, with a bit too much focus on the characters’ relationships, but it definitely made up for it in the second half and I liked the way it ended, wrapping up the key plotlines but leaving things open for more adventures. While not particularly gory or violent, this covers some dark and distressing subjects with one particularly horrific scene that is necessary both for the plot and to show the hypocritical immorality of those responsible. 4.5 rounded up for the fascinating and well researched medical details.
I received a free ARC from Canongate Books via NetGalley and am posting this review voluntarily. A Corruption of Blood is published on August 19th.
December 25, 2021
This is the third book in the series and can be read as a stand-alone, I have read the first two and enjoyed them a lot. I felt the story took an unexpected turn with the main couple and I am not sure that I enjoyed it. Character development and the buildup to the mystery was a large part of the book even though the murder was committed in the first few chapters. I read quit a few Victorian mysteries and thought the descriptions of the living conditions are well drawn. I didn't enjoy the mystery or the main couple as much as I did in the last 2 books. I figured out part of the mystery rather early in the book, but there was more than met the eye. The ending is perhaps understandable but.......I rate this 3.5 and round up. I enjoyed the book bud did not love it. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 7, 2023
A good old enjoyable bit of historical fiction, lightly sprinkled with a few real life characters and events. I loved the atmosphere of 1850s Edinburgh and the details of Victorian medical practices, and also that it speaks of the inequality of the time, between men and women, rich and poor, and the concealing of gross misdeeds behind a veneer of respectability. There's mystery involved, intriguing but fairly slow paced, which all comes together rather satisfyingly in the end. I stupidly seem to have started this series with the third installment but I'd definitely like to read the others, I've already grabbed number 4 from the library 😁.
June 28, 2021
Ambrose Perry's Raven, Fisher, and Simpson series just keeps getting better. From the start Perry's series had interesting, complex characters and intelligent plotting—and these characteristics shine in A Corruption of Blood. The setting, the medical community of Edinburgh in the mid-19th Century, is a place of medical breakthroughs, intense competition, and class divides.
Simpson is a renowned doctor, the man responsible for introducing the use of chloroform in surgery. He rose from a working class background and treats both society matrons and the poor, through a free clinic he runs out of his house. Simpson is an advocate for single mothers, who are too often condemned to turn to prostitution to feed their children and then treated as pariahs threatening the common good. Raven is a young doctor, also from a working class background—but his family, unlike Simpson's was violent, and Raven has his own violent streak, along with a solid sense of personal ethics. Fisher is a young woman who aspires to become a doctor at a time when women aren't admitted to medical schools. She began working in the Simpson household as a maid, but has risen to a position as Simpson's trusted assistant. She's formidably intelligent and fiercely protective of her hard-won independence.
In A Corruption of Blood, Raven and Fisher are investigating separate mysteries. Raven's fiance has convinced him to work to exonerate a young man (a class-conscious former classmate from Raven's medical school days) accused of murdering his wealthy, bullying father. Fisher is searching for the illegitimate child of one of the Simpson household's maids. The child had been placed with a "baby farmer" and the maid had been struggling to pay for the child's upkeep—until the day the baby farmer disappeared and the maid lost all contact with her child. The twists and turns in each case are numerous, revealing the hypocrisies in Edinburgh society, where men and women both sin, but only women are held accountable.
A Corruption of Blood would make an excellent summer read—really, an excellent read regardless of the time of year. If you enjoy historical mysteries, this is a title you won't want to miss.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
Simpson is a renowned doctor, the man responsible for introducing the use of chloroform in surgery. He rose from a working class background and treats both society matrons and the poor, through a free clinic he runs out of his house. Simpson is an advocate for single mothers, who are too often condemned to turn to prostitution to feed their children and then treated as pariahs threatening the common good. Raven is a young doctor, also from a working class background—but his family, unlike Simpson's was violent, and Raven has his own violent streak, along with a solid sense of personal ethics. Fisher is a young woman who aspires to become a doctor at a time when women aren't admitted to medical schools. She began working in the Simpson household as a maid, but has risen to a position as Simpson's trusted assistant. She's formidably intelligent and fiercely protective of her hard-won independence.
In A Corruption of Blood, Raven and Fisher are investigating separate mysteries. Raven's fiance has convinced him to work to exonerate a young man (a class-conscious former classmate from Raven's medical school days) accused of murdering his wealthy, bullying father. Fisher is searching for the illegitimate child of one of the Simpson household's maids. The child had been placed with a "baby farmer" and the maid had been struggling to pay for the child's upkeep—until the day the baby farmer disappeared and the maid lost all contact with her child. The twists and turns in each case are numerous, revealing the hypocrisies in Edinburgh society, where men and women both sin, but only women are held accountable.
A Corruption of Blood would make an excellent summer read—really, an excellent read regardless of the time of year. If you enjoy historical mysteries, this is a title you won't want to miss.
I received a free electronic review copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley; the opinions are my own.
January 15, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really love historical fiction mysteries that incorporate real life people and events. So this one was right up my alley. On top of that, I loved it was set in Edinburgh. I can't say I have read too many mysteries set in Scotland in the 1800s. This is the third book in an ongoing (I assume) series, and it holds up very well as a standalone. The writing was brilliant. It was well paced and kept me turning the pages. The plot was intriguing. Dark, heartbreaking, and at times grisly. The characters themselves were also very likable. The one issue I had was the ending. Wasn't a fan of some of the decisions made. All in all, this was a cracking good read and gets two thumbs up from yours truly.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I really love historical fiction mysteries that incorporate real life people and events. So this one was right up my alley. On top of that, I loved it was set in Edinburgh. I can't say I have read too many mysteries set in Scotland in the 1800s. This is the third book in an ongoing (I assume) series, and it holds up very well as a standalone. The writing was brilliant. It was well paced and kept me turning the pages. The plot was intriguing. Dark, heartbreaking, and at times grisly. The characters themselves were also very likable. The one issue I had was the ending. Wasn't a fan of some of the decisions made. All in all, this was a cracking good read and gets two thumbs up from yours truly.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
January 13, 2024
This is the third book in this series and I must say that it lives up to every expectation built upon the reputation of the first two books. Edinburgh is brought to life, the historical facts used in clever ways flesh out a thrilling plot and the characters continue to charm in their own ways.
This book touches upon the themes of women's right to education, shifting moralities of the society and women's place in the society. Through clever fictitious vehicles of Sarah Fisher and Amelia Douglas, the authors ask important and relevant questions regarding the role played by women I shaping the society in the 1850s. I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
This book touches upon the themes of women's right to education, shifting moralities of the society and women's place in the society. Through clever fictitious vehicles of Sarah Fisher and Amelia Douglas, the authors ask important and relevant questions regarding the role played by women I shaping the society in the 1850s. I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
January 7, 2022
This is number 3 in the historical crime series involving Dr Will Raven, doctor's assistant Sarah Fisher and their mentor Dr Simpson.
These are atmospheric and gripping mysteries set in Victorian Edinburgh. In this book there is a woman who earns a living by 'caring' for unwanted babies, or selling them on. An old acquaintance from Will's medical school days is accused of murdering his father and although Will does not like the man he becomes embroiled in the case. Meanwhile Will and Sarah are unable to express their feelings for each other and their romantic feelings are continuing to upset and confuse those around them.
There are 2 real-life people in this story. Obviously Dr Simpson was a real person as was Elizabeth Blackwell who appears in this book. She was the first woman to qualify as a doctor.
I listened to this book and must mention the superb readings by Bryan Dick and Cathleen McCarron.
These are atmospheric and gripping mysteries set in Victorian Edinburgh. In this book there is a woman who earns a living by 'caring' for unwanted babies, or selling them on. An old acquaintance from Will's medical school days is accused of murdering his father and although Will does not like the man he becomes embroiled in the case. Meanwhile Will and Sarah are unable to express their feelings for each other and their romantic feelings are continuing to upset and confuse those around them.
There are 2 real-life people in this story. Obviously Dr Simpson was a real person as was Elizabeth Blackwell who appears in this book. She was the first woman to qualify as a doctor.
I listened to this book and must mention the superb readings by Bryan Dick and Cathleen McCarron.
November 22, 2021
link: Discover the locations in A Corruption of Blood
Brilliantly gothic and dark
Captivating characters and a darn good if darkly gruesome plot. Oh this is a grand series!!
Highly recommended
August 12, 2021
A Corruption of Blood has all the period atmosphere that was such a feature of its predecessors, The Way of All Flesh and The Art of Dying, transporting the reader to a 19th century Edinburgh in which seedy, crowded tenements inhabited by the poor coexist with the elegant, spacious houses of the wealthy. Although the third in the series, A Corruption of Blood can be read as a standalone although there are references to key events in the earlier books making them best read in order for maximum enjoyment.
Dr. Will Raven is no longer Dr. James Simpson’s apprentice but his assistant. However, he still battles to control what his friend Henry describes as his ‘perverse appetite for mayhem’ and remains plagued by fears he has inherited the violent tendencies of his father. In fact, the debate over whether character traits are inherited is a theme of the book, with some believing that indolence and immorality are destined from birth and others arguing that poverty is the cause of many of society’s ills. It later transpires that the idea of ‘a corruption of blood’ as in the title can have other consequences.
Sarah Fisher has left behind her former life as a servant in the Simpson household. However, even helping Dr. Simpson with the patients who attend his clinic is no longer sufficient for her. She longs to pursue a career in medicine, a profession in which few other women have succeeded, not least because of opposition from men who believe medicine an unsuitable job for a woman. As Sarah observes, the world is controlled by men.
The spark of attraction between Will and Sarah that looked likely to ignite in the first book seems to have become friendship and mutual respect. Will is still aware of the difference in their social status and Sarah has reason to fear her position in Will’s affections has been usurped by someone who offers him greater social advantages, especially for a man who has ambitions to set up his own practice. Despite all this, do they have a future together? This reader certainly hopes so.
Will and Sarah soon find themselves engaged in investigating the death of a wealthy member of Edinburgh society. As they discover, ‘powerful men accumulate powerful enemies’, especially if they are in possession of secrets. Together they make an effective team, possessing complementary skills: Will with his medical knowledge, familiarity with the city’s ‘underbelly’ not to mention being handy with his fists, and Sarah with her ability to elicit information from the lower sections of society. They’re not the only one on the case as there’s an appearance by James McLevy, the famous Edinburgh detective (also brought to life in fictional form in David Ashton’s historical mystery series).
As Will and Sarah press ahead with their enquiries, keen for their investigation to bear fruit, the reader may believe they know exactly who the culprit is but there are times when it’s wise to wait for a second opinion or to revisit your initial diagnosis. And, along the way they uncover a shocking secret that sets the city alight with outrage and a demand for justice.
A Corruption of Blood is another skilful combination of intricately plotted mystery, engaging leading characters and great period atmosphere. The pace is helped by the short chapters, particularly as the book reaches its climax. For me, it’s just what the doctor ordered and I’m hoping for a repeat prescription before too long.
Dr. Will Raven is no longer Dr. James Simpson’s apprentice but his assistant. However, he still battles to control what his friend Henry describes as his ‘perverse appetite for mayhem’ and remains plagued by fears he has inherited the violent tendencies of his father. In fact, the debate over whether character traits are inherited is a theme of the book, with some believing that indolence and immorality are destined from birth and others arguing that poverty is the cause of many of society’s ills. It later transpires that the idea of ‘a corruption of blood’ as in the title can have other consequences.
Sarah Fisher has left behind her former life as a servant in the Simpson household. However, even helping Dr. Simpson with the patients who attend his clinic is no longer sufficient for her. She longs to pursue a career in medicine, a profession in which few other women have succeeded, not least because of opposition from men who believe medicine an unsuitable job for a woman. As Sarah observes, the world is controlled by men.
The spark of attraction between Will and Sarah that looked likely to ignite in the first book seems to have become friendship and mutual respect. Will is still aware of the difference in their social status and Sarah has reason to fear her position in Will’s affections has been usurped by someone who offers him greater social advantages, especially for a man who has ambitions to set up his own practice. Despite all this, do they have a future together? This reader certainly hopes so.
Will and Sarah soon find themselves engaged in investigating the death of a wealthy member of Edinburgh society. As they discover, ‘powerful men accumulate powerful enemies’, especially if they are in possession of secrets. Together they make an effective team, possessing complementary skills: Will with his medical knowledge, familiarity with the city’s ‘underbelly’ not to mention being handy with his fists, and Sarah with her ability to elicit information from the lower sections of society. They’re not the only one on the case as there’s an appearance by James McLevy, the famous Edinburgh detective (also brought to life in fictional form in David Ashton’s historical mystery series).
As Will and Sarah press ahead with their enquiries, keen for their investigation to bear fruit, the reader may believe they know exactly who the culprit is but there are times when it’s wise to wait for a second opinion or to revisit your initial diagnosis. And, along the way they uncover a shocking secret that sets the city alight with outrage and a demand for justice.
A Corruption of Blood is another skilful combination of intricately plotted mystery, engaging leading characters and great period atmosphere. The pace is helped by the short chapters, particularly as the book reaches its climax. For me, it’s just what the doctor ordered and I’m hoping for a repeat prescription before too long.
August 19, 2021
A Corruption of Blood is the third instalment in the Raven, Fisher and Simpson series in which a fictional plot is set against the backdrop of Victorian Edinburgh and once again Ambrose Parry have written an exceptional work of historical crime centred around a medical mystery. Dr Will Raven and Simpson’s assistant Sarah Fisher are still currently living and working from 52 Queen Street, the home of Dr James Simpson, a pioneer in the field of chloroform for use in the medical and surgical sphere. Sarah travels to Paris, France, to meet one of the first qualified female doctors, Dr Elizabeth Blackwell, a groundbreaking American woman who Sarah hopes to follow in the footsteps of. But she returns to Britain disheartened and depressed about the struggle she will undoubtedly have to face when entering the male-dominated medical field. As if that wasn’t bad enough, she also has to contend with the sudden shock of Will having asked Eugenie Todd, the daughter of a prominent local physician, for her hand in marriage while she was absent overseas. This adds envy, sadness and a feeling of loss to her already fraught emotional state.
Meanwhile, Will travels to Leith to assist the difficult delivery of twins and is present when a dead infant is fished out of the nearby river; she has been strangled and cruelly discarded. Eugenie also encourages Will, her beau, to investigate the suspicious death of Sir Ainsley Douglas, a powerful yet corrupt man who had met his end recently. Eugenie hopes that Will can prove that her close acquaintance Gideon, son and heir to his father’s fortune, is innocent of his slaying and time is of the essence as he has already been charged and sentenced to hang for the crime. Elsewhere, Sarah lends a hand to Christina, a maid who is devastated after being forced to give up her baby to a woman who later vanished and has not been heard from since. This leads to the discovery of a baby farm, a place in which unmarried or impoverished girls would pay a fee for those in charge to find their offspring a home in which they could thrive. But it didn't always end up with such a happy ending. Sarah and Will work their cases separately before coming together and merging when they realise that the investigations are connected.
The two of them not only discuss the tangled web of deceit, murder, betrayal and corruption they have unearthed but also their feelings for one another, too. This is a riveting and compulsively readable mystery thriller rich in the atmosphere of 1850’s Edinburgh. Built on a fascinating blend of fact and fiction, the plot is multilayered and full of surprises, twists and strategic reveals. It's a powerful, sinister and absorbing read from the start, and although it is very much a slow burner, this allows time for you to reacquaint yourself with the characters and immerse yourself in the exquisitely imagined world with both time and place depicted vividly and authentically. It's a brilliant read with enough drama, mystery, medical shenanigans and stunning description to keep even the most demanding reader satisfied. This is historical fiction at its finest with great attention to detail and nothing left to chance. Well written and beautifully plotted, the atmosphere the husband and wife writing team creates is astonishing; you can almost smell, taste and see all of the delights this era in the Scottish capital had to offer. Highly recommended.
Meanwhile, Will travels to Leith to assist the difficult delivery of twins and is present when a dead infant is fished out of the nearby river; she has been strangled and cruelly discarded. Eugenie also encourages Will, her beau, to investigate the suspicious death of Sir Ainsley Douglas, a powerful yet corrupt man who had met his end recently. Eugenie hopes that Will can prove that her close acquaintance Gideon, son and heir to his father’s fortune, is innocent of his slaying and time is of the essence as he has already been charged and sentenced to hang for the crime. Elsewhere, Sarah lends a hand to Christina, a maid who is devastated after being forced to give up her baby to a woman who later vanished and has not been heard from since. This leads to the discovery of a baby farm, a place in which unmarried or impoverished girls would pay a fee for those in charge to find their offspring a home in which they could thrive. But it didn't always end up with such a happy ending. Sarah and Will work their cases separately before coming together and merging when they realise that the investigations are connected.
The two of them not only discuss the tangled web of deceit, murder, betrayal and corruption they have unearthed but also their feelings for one another, too. This is a riveting and compulsively readable mystery thriller rich in the atmosphere of 1850’s Edinburgh. Built on a fascinating blend of fact and fiction, the plot is multilayered and full of surprises, twists and strategic reveals. It's a powerful, sinister and absorbing read from the start, and although it is very much a slow burner, this allows time for you to reacquaint yourself with the characters and immerse yourself in the exquisitely imagined world with both time and place depicted vividly and authentically. It's a brilliant read with enough drama, mystery, medical shenanigans and stunning description to keep even the most demanding reader satisfied. This is historical fiction at its finest with great attention to detail and nothing left to chance. Well written and beautifully plotted, the atmosphere the husband and wife writing team creates is astonishing; you can almost smell, taste and see all of the delights this era in the Scottish capital had to offer. Highly recommended.
March 25, 2025
Excellent and gripping story line. Lots about women's rights and opportunities or the lack of them at the time. The attraction between Raven and Fisher is obvious throughout but with him about to get married, what could happen? Fascinating historical note talking about what was based on real events and people. I've been reading (or listening) to these out of order but having already read book 4, I can't wait for book 5 in the series!
January 20, 2022
Enjoyable third book in a series set in 19th Edinburgh. Great recurring characters who it is a joy to spend time with again. The writer(s) do excatly what good historical fiction writers should , blending real people and events seamlessly with the fiction.
The whodunnit part was good , did guess at some parts but there were enough surprises and twists to make the ending exciting.
Hope there's a fourth 🙂
The whodunnit part was good , did guess at some parts but there were enough surprises and twists to make the ending exciting.
Hope there's a fourth 🙂
October 15, 2021
When a series receives five star reviews for every book written you know you're onto something. This is a stunning third addition to one of the greatest series I've ever had the pleasure to read. Raven and Sarah are contagious - much like the prose and plot.
I'm one-hundred percent hooked!
🥰
I'm one-hundred percent hooked!
🥰
April 21, 2024
Obwohl "Die Essenz des Bösen" von Ambrose Parry bereits der dritte Band der "Die Morden von Edinburgh" Reihe ist und ich die vorherigen Bände noch nicht gelesen habe, wollte ich es mit dem Buch versuchen, denn der Klappentext machte mich sehr neugierig. Historische Krimis nahm ich in letzter Zeit zwar nicht allzu häufig zur Hand, jedoch lese ich sehr gerne Abwechslungsreich.
Der Anfang war für mich ein wenig holprig, denn die Charaktere und das Setting kannte ich noch nicht und musste mich erst ein wenig einfinden. Oft hilft mir dabei, die ersten Kapitel nach dem Kennenlernen noch einmal zu lesen, sodass manches Verhalten der Charaktere beim zweiten Mal lesen etwas schlüssiger war. Das lag jedoch nicht am Buch, sondern an meinem fehlenden Vorwissen. Es war absolut nachvollziehbar, dass bestimmte Einführungen bei Folgebänden nicht ganz so umfangreich sind, wie bei einem Reihenauftakt. Mit der Zeit kam ich jedoch sehr gut in die Geschichte rein, konnte besser nachvollziehen, in welcher Verbindung alle relevanten Charaktere standen und schließlich vollkommen in die Geschichte eintauchen.
Je weiter ich im Buch voranschritt, umso mehr fesselte mich die Geschichte. Der Schreibstil passte zur Epoche, die Schilderungen der Umgebung sorgte für Kopfkino und die beiden Protagonisten, Dr. Will Raven und Sarah Fisher, waren absolut glaubwürdig. Zwei Persönlichkeiten, die ihr Herz am rechten Fleck hatten und aufgrund ihres Gerechtigkeitssinns hartnäckig nach der Wahrheit suchten.
Es faszinierte mich, wie komplex sich der Kriminalfall herausstellte. Ein grausamer Fund schlängelte sich wie ein roter Faden durch die gesamte Geschichte. Was ganz subtil anfing stellte sich als ein großes Netzwerk heraus, welches letztendlich alle Schichten der Gesellschaft betraf. Die Kapitel wechselten in unregelmä��igen Abständen zwischen den Protagonisten, die scheinbar ihre eigenen Fälle verfolgten. Dabei ging es jedoch um einiges mehr, als nur um deren Auflösung. Die damaligen Klassenunterschiede wurden vielfältig verdeutlicht, ebenso die Rolle der Frau.
Was mir besonders gut gefiel, war die Ausarbeitung der ganzen Charaktere. Sowohl die Protagonisten, als auch die Nebencharaktere erhielten individuelle Persönlichkeiten, sodass die Geschichte insgesamt eine zusätzliche Tiefe und Komplexität erhielt. Dies steigerte die Glaubwürdigkeit und fesselte mich umso mehr, denn man fieberte dabei regelrecht mit, wie sich nicht nur der Kriminalfall, sondern auch die einzelnen Schicksale entwickeln würden.
Trotz des fehlenden Wissens aus den vorangegangenen Bänden fühlte ich mich bestens unterhalten. Spannend bis ins letzte Detail, Charaktere, die mir ans Herz wuchsen, Grausames nicht verharmlosend, realitätsnah und glaubwürdig. Und obwohl sich in diesem Band Spoiler zu den Vorgängern nicht vermeiden ließen, freue ich mich jetzt schon darauf, die ersten beiden Bände doch noch zur Hand zu nehmen und zu erfahren, wie sich Will und Sarah kennenlernten und was sie bisher gemeinsam erlebten.
~~~~~
{Rezensionsexemplar; persönliche Meinung zum Buch}
Das Rezensionsexemplar wurde mir vom Verlag und #NetGalleyDE zur Verfügung gestellt. Vielen Dank dafür. Die Rezension spiegelt meine persönliche Meinung wider.
Der Anfang war für mich ein wenig holprig, denn die Charaktere und das Setting kannte ich noch nicht und musste mich erst ein wenig einfinden. Oft hilft mir dabei, die ersten Kapitel nach dem Kennenlernen noch einmal zu lesen, sodass manches Verhalten der Charaktere beim zweiten Mal lesen etwas schlüssiger war. Das lag jedoch nicht am Buch, sondern an meinem fehlenden Vorwissen. Es war absolut nachvollziehbar, dass bestimmte Einführungen bei Folgebänden nicht ganz so umfangreich sind, wie bei einem Reihenauftakt. Mit der Zeit kam ich jedoch sehr gut in die Geschichte rein, konnte besser nachvollziehen, in welcher Verbindung alle relevanten Charaktere standen und schließlich vollkommen in die Geschichte eintauchen.
Je weiter ich im Buch voranschritt, umso mehr fesselte mich die Geschichte. Der Schreibstil passte zur Epoche, die Schilderungen der Umgebung sorgte für Kopfkino und die beiden Protagonisten, Dr. Will Raven und Sarah Fisher, waren absolut glaubwürdig. Zwei Persönlichkeiten, die ihr Herz am rechten Fleck hatten und aufgrund ihres Gerechtigkeitssinns hartnäckig nach der Wahrheit suchten.
Es faszinierte mich, wie komplex sich der Kriminalfall herausstellte. Ein grausamer Fund schlängelte sich wie ein roter Faden durch die gesamte Geschichte. Was ganz subtil anfing stellte sich als ein großes Netzwerk heraus, welches letztendlich alle Schichten der Gesellschaft betraf. Die Kapitel wechselten in unregelmä��igen Abständen zwischen den Protagonisten, die scheinbar ihre eigenen Fälle verfolgten. Dabei ging es jedoch um einiges mehr, als nur um deren Auflösung. Die damaligen Klassenunterschiede wurden vielfältig verdeutlicht, ebenso die Rolle der Frau.
Was mir besonders gut gefiel, war die Ausarbeitung der ganzen Charaktere. Sowohl die Protagonisten, als auch die Nebencharaktere erhielten individuelle Persönlichkeiten, sodass die Geschichte insgesamt eine zusätzliche Tiefe und Komplexität erhielt. Dies steigerte die Glaubwürdigkeit und fesselte mich umso mehr, denn man fieberte dabei regelrecht mit, wie sich nicht nur der Kriminalfall, sondern auch die einzelnen Schicksale entwickeln würden.
Trotz des fehlenden Wissens aus den vorangegangenen Bänden fühlte ich mich bestens unterhalten. Spannend bis ins letzte Detail, Charaktere, die mir ans Herz wuchsen, Grausames nicht verharmlosend, realitätsnah und glaubwürdig. Und obwohl sich in diesem Band Spoiler zu den Vorgängern nicht vermeiden ließen, freue ich mich jetzt schon darauf, die ersten beiden Bände doch noch zur Hand zu nehmen und zu erfahren, wie sich Will und Sarah kennenlernten und was sie bisher gemeinsam erlebten.
~~~~~
{Rezensionsexemplar; persönliche Meinung zum Buch}
Das Rezensionsexemplar wurde mir vom Verlag und #NetGalleyDE zur Verfügung gestellt. Vielen Dank dafür. Die Rezension spiegelt meine persönliche Meinung wider.
October 19, 2021
Menacing, gripping, and addictive!
A Corruption of Blood is a vivid, unsettling tale that takes us back to Edinburgh and into the lives of Dr Will Raven and Sarah Fisher as they find themselves wrapped up in not only the suspicious death of one of the wealthiest men in the Scottish Lowlands, Sir Ainsley Douglas but also the case of a murdered infant that may, in fact, only be the start of a bigger more heinous murder spree than anyone could have imagined.
The prose is descriptive and tense. The characters are intelligent, curious, and committed. And the plot is a compelling tale of life, loss, secrets, friendship, courtship, abuse, revenge, manipulation, deception, greed, violence, early medicine, and murder.
Overall, A Corruption of Blood is another atmospheric, gritty, intricate novel by Parry that is a fantastic addition to the Raven, Fisher, Simpson series, and I can’t wait to read whatever this dynamic writing duo manages to come up with next.
Thank you to PGC Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
A Corruption of Blood is a vivid, unsettling tale that takes us back to Edinburgh and into the lives of Dr Will Raven and Sarah Fisher as they find themselves wrapped up in not only the suspicious death of one of the wealthiest men in the Scottish Lowlands, Sir Ainsley Douglas but also the case of a murdered infant that may, in fact, only be the start of a bigger more heinous murder spree than anyone could have imagined.
The prose is descriptive and tense. The characters are intelligent, curious, and committed. And the plot is a compelling tale of life, loss, secrets, friendship, courtship, abuse, revenge, manipulation, deception, greed, violence, early medicine, and murder.
Overall, A Corruption of Blood is another atmospheric, gritty, intricate novel by Parry that is a fantastic addition to the Raven, Fisher, Simpson series, and I can’t wait to read whatever this dynamic writing duo manages to come up with next.
Thank you to PGC Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2023
Another fabulous instalment in this wonderful series. Adroit plotting and immaculate research as ever. Highly recommended.
September 30, 2021
This series is just perfect for me.
I really enjoy the atmosphere, the way it is written, the plots that accompany the common thread of the story, the common thread of the story and of course, the protagonists. Raven and Sarah won't let you drop the book.
My review is late but the reality is that I debuted the book in two days.
Already waiting for the fourth book.
I really enjoy the atmosphere, the way it is written, the plots that accompany the common thread of the story, the common thread of the story and of course, the protagonists. Raven and Sarah won't let you drop the book.
My review is late but the reality is that I debuted the book in two days.
Already waiting for the fourth book.
April 9, 2021
A Corruption of Blood is the third book in the Raven, Fisher, & Simpson series.
This is a crime thriller set in Edinburgh in the 1840's, when Edinburgh was leading the way in medical science.
Dr Raven has agreed to help an old adversary to prove his innocence and escape the hangman's noose. But something doesn't add up, is Raven on a false trail?
Fanbloodytastic!
This is fiction with a lot of fact. It's dark, gritty with a fabulous cast of characters.
I absolutely love this series.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for the ARC.
This is a crime thriller set in Edinburgh in the 1840's, when Edinburgh was leading the way in medical science.
Dr Raven has agreed to help an old adversary to prove his innocence and escape the hangman's noose. But something doesn't add up, is Raven on a false trail?
Fanbloodytastic!
This is fiction with a lot of fact. It's dark, gritty with a fabulous cast of characters.
I absolutely love this series.
Thank you Netgalley and Publisher for the ARC.
December 22, 2021
“A Corruption Of Blood” (ACOB) is a historical crime fiction tale by Ambrose Parry ad is the third book in the Dr Will Raven/Miss Sarah Fisher series.
Murder most foul, an accusation, and a missing baby ACOB is a story that will keep the reader engaged from start to finish with a conclusion that is not only devilishly clever but also plain to see if you look closely enough (even with the customary red herrings, ACOB is another fine instalment in this great series…and I’m certainly looking forward to reading the next!
The writing is smooth and very readable (there are particular terms used throughout very much of the 1850 Edinburgh era - some of which I’d never heard - but they just fit so well), the characters are always believable, and the sub-plots enhance not detract from the main storyline (with enough information about past events to provide understanding for new readers without being a complete rehash for those familiar with the other books)
One of the things I really enjoy about this series is how the author interweaves fiction and historical fact to add to the realism of the period and the tale being told. You get the sense of what it would actually be like to live in that era.
With themes of gender roles in the 1800s, revenge, love, loss, maintaining one’s place in society and the sometimes tragic lengths people would go to keep it, ACOB gets 4 cases of possible patricide out of 5.
Murder most foul, an accusation, and a missing baby ACOB is a story that will keep the reader engaged from start to finish with a conclusion that is not only devilishly clever but also plain to see if you look closely enough (even with the customary red herrings, ACOB is another fine instalment in this great series…and I’m certainly looking forward to reading the next!
The writing is smooth and very readable (there are particular terms used throughout very much of the 1850 Edinburgh era - some of which I’d never heard - but they just fit so well), the characters are always believable, and the sub-plots enhance not detract from the main storyline (with enough information about past events to provide understanding for new readers without being a complete rehash for those familiar with the other books)
One of the things I really enjoy about this series is how the author interweaves fiction and historical fact to add to the realism of the period and the tale being told. You get the sense of what it would actually be like to live in that era.
With themes of gender roles in the 1800s, revenge, love, loss, maintaining one’s place in society and the sometimes tragic lengths people would go to keep it, ACOB gets 4 cases of possible patricide out of 5.
January 22, 2022
I enjoyed the first two books in the series, but found myself a lot more critical of this one. Too many things happen by convenience such as the way our two main threads are tied together. It's getting formulaic and predictable (there's not a lot of space for actual random stuff - so for instance, when a splinter is mentioned, it's expected that infection will ensue). The "will they/won't they" romance element is now firmly getting on my nerves. The writing itself is ok, but it's very obviously 21st c. writing of a 19th c. story with a wide audience in mind. And no, I'm not criticising some of the moral elements there - some 19th c. writers did address some of these points on the place of women in society too. But the execution here is a bit heavy handed and repetitive.
Is it that different from the first two? I guess there was the novelty element, which has now worn out, but the characters and story made me overlook the flaws - here I felt that the story wasn't as good and the earlier flaws were magnified. I don't expect I'll pick up the next book in the series.
Is it that different from the first two? I guess there was the novelty element, which has now worn out, but the characters and story made me overlook the flaws - here I felt that the story wasn't as good and the earlier flaws were magnified. I don't expect I'll pick up the next book in the series.
August 5, 2021
Another great book from Parry.
We once more join Dr Will Raven, a fictional assistant to the real Professor Simpson, in his seemingly mundane daily cases and baby deliveries. After an unremarkable case in Leith, Raven stumbles across the recently discovered body of a baby, seemingly dumped in the Water of Leith river. He then accompanies Simpson to a charity event, the host of which subsequently dies, apparently poisoned. Raven is then tasked by his new fiance to prove the innocence of her friend, and Raven's onetime obnoxious tutee, the dead man's son.
Meanwhile, Raven's partner in investigation, and in Simpson's clinic, Sarah Fisher, is travelling Europe hoping to get some inspiration and insight for her burgeoning medical career from real life Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman allowed to study medicine. Back from her travels, somewhat downhearted from the advice given, Fisher herself is asked to find her new colleague's, Simpson's housemaid, baby, who had been given into the care of a local woman due to her circumstances at the time of his birth.
The story gradually unfurls as Raven looks into the apparent poisoning of the prominent man, met at every turn with high profile peoples' unwillingness to have any scandal revealed, and Sarah tries to locate the woman who had been charged with looking after babies.
There is more societal dealings than in previous books, and this becomes a little tiresome at times, taking the place of previous books' murky underworld atmosphere. The need to be seen to be doing the right thing by the right people, and being careful not to upset the wrong ones, gets a little frustrating.
However, as with previous books, the weaving together of a fictional story with real world events and people, is something that kept me gripped and I read it voraciously.
A wonderful historical crime fiction book.
We once more join Dr Will Raven, a fictional assistant to the real Professor Simpson, in his seemingly mundane daily cases and baby deliveries. After an unremarkable case in Leith, Raven stumbles across the recently discovered body of a baby, seemingly dumped in the Water of Leith river. He then accompanies Simpson to a charity event, the host of which subsequently dies, apparently poisoned. Raven is then tasked by his new fiance to prove the innocence of her friend, and Raven's onetime obnoxious tutee, the dead man's son.
Meanwhile, Raven's partner in investigation, and in Simpson's clinic, Sarah Fisher, is travelling Europe hoping to get some inspiration and insight for her burgeoning medical career from real life Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman allowed to study medicine. Back from her travels, somewhat downhearted from the advice given, Fisher herself is asked to find her new colleague's, Simpson's housemaid, baby, who had been given into the care of a local woman due to her circumstances at the time of his birth.
The story gradually unfurls as Raven looks into the apparent poisoning of the prominent man, met at every turn with high profile peoples' unwillingness to have any scandal revealed, and Sarah tries to locate the woman who had been charged with looking after babies.
There is more societal dealings than in previous books, and this becomes a little tiresome at times, taking the place of previous books' murky underworld atmosphere. The need to be seen to be doing the right thing by the right people, and being careful not to upset the wrong ones, gets a little frustrating.
However, as with previous books, the weaving together of a fictional story with real world events and people, is something that kept me gripped and I read it voraciously.
A wonderful historical crime fiction book.
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