The Lost Boys (Esther and Jack Enright #8), by David Field

Nine stars

David Field offers up a final novel about the criminal element of Victorian England with Esther and Jack Enright front and centre. After both receiving promotions within Scotland Yard, Jack Enright and his uncle, Percy, are called upon to help with another significant case. Percy is told of two missing boys from a local boarding school, both of whom disappeared after catching coaches at the end of the day. These boys are related to two prominent British businessmen with ties to South Africa. At a time when the Boer War is still simmering, all eyes turn to the potential of German involvement. Approaching his nephew, Percy pleads for assistance, particularly since one of the boys had been booked on a ship sailing for the African continent. Jack agrees, but is busy with his own investigations, now working at one of the large English ports, where shipments have been going missing. When Percy seeks to press for more information at the school, he discovers that there is more to the coach story than meets the eye. Could the Matron be sitting on information key to the investigation that she’s refusing to share? Enter, Esther Enright, whose past undercover work helped solve a few important cases. Esther enters the fray and discovers a key piece of information, while Jack learns something from a sailor himself. Piecing it all together may help discover what’s happened to the boys, but who is behind it all? Therein lies the key in this final Enright mystery. Field puts together another great story, sure to keep the reader enthralled until the last page. Fans of the series will likely enjoy this last novel, as might those who love Victorian mysteries.

David Field has a writing style not only easy to comprehend, but provides the reader with historical context during the Victorian era. Settings and political events come to life throughout this well-paced series, which never falls flat. Field uses the story’s settings effectively, shifting from the port to school grounds, both key to the larger plot. Jack and Esther remain strong characters, though Field injects some new developments to create some disarray and leaves them to make some harrowing decisions about themselves and their future together. Their banter and ability to work together have been central to the entire series, something Field does not forget to include. Percy Enright plays another protagonist role, helping to push the story along, and has elevated himself from the other characters. All those who play a smaller role do well to fit into the narrative, helping to enrich the criminal investigation. Field keeps the story fairly straightforward, though does not dilute or oversimplify things for the reader. Rather, he effectively educates the reader while exploring some of the regional issues that plagued the country just before the turn of the century. These short reads can be digested in a single day without feeling cheated. One can only hope that Field’s collection of ideas does not dry up anytime soon, even if he is moving on to new and exciting ventures.

Kudos, Mr. Field, for a great end to this series. I cannot wait for your next series, which I have heard will take readers centuries into the past!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Jubilee Plot (Esther and Jack Enright #7), by David Field

Eight stars

David Field presents readers with another novel about the criminal element of Victorian England in the latest Esther and Jack Enright piece. While Jack and Esther are in Essex with their four children, Percy has been stirring up the pot in the Met and finds himself out of a job, at least temporarily. Word of how well the Enrights work has made it through the ranks of Scotland Yard, where a special team is being assembled. In preparation for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, security has begun to hash out potential violent plots. While Her Majesty is the primary focus of protection, one cannot forget many of her grandchildren, who are monarchs in their own countries. When whispers of a Fenian plot surface, Jack and Percy are given undercover positions in the ‘Irish Group’ to suss out potential leaders. While the work is just what Jack loves to do, it puts an obvious strain on his marriage. Esther may have finally become aware of the mistress called Work and how she can ruin a happy marriage. All the while, a mystery man appears at Esther’s door, someone who could also derail the Enright family in a single day. With the Jubilee approaching, Jack and Percy can spare no time as they seek answers, which reveals gaping holes in security, and trouble from the least expected places. Field does a masterful job of putting together a great story that will keep the reader enthralled throughout. Fans of the series will likely enjoy this latest piece, as might those readers who love Victorian mysteries that are read in short order.

I enjoy promoting David Field whenever I can, with a writing style not only easy to comprehend, but provides the reader with historical context happenings during the Victorian era. Settings and political events come to life throughout this well-paced series. I rushed through the first few novels when contacted by the publisher, and knew that I would return as soon as more novels appeared in publication. Field uses the story’s setting effectively, shifting from the home in Essex to the streets of London without losing the narrative’s strength. Jack and Esther remain strong characters, though Field injects some new developments to create some disarray. Might the ongoing investigations that exemplify Jack’s choice to put work before his ever-burgeoning family finally have left Esther at the end of her rope? Percy and some of the other supporting characters do well to fit into the narrative, helping to enrich the criminal investigation and adding unique flavours that permit Field to explore the topic of treason and assassination from a variety of vantage points. Field keeps the story fairly straightforward, though can never be accused of diluting or oversimplifying things for the curious reader. Field effectively educates the reader all about the Fenians and Irish uprisings, ahead of some larger bloodier events in history. These short reads can be digested in a single day without feeling cheated. One can only hope that Field’s collection of ideas does not dry up anytime soon, as these novels are perfect for a reader who enjoys historical fiction.

Kudos, Mr. Field, for another success. I see a few more pieces are coming down the pipeline and I anticipate their arrival!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Mercy Killings (Esther and Jack Enright #6), by David Field

Eight stars

David Field presents readers with another novel about the criminal element of Victorian England in the latest Esther and Jack Enright piece. Jack Enright has accepted a Detective Sergeant position in Essex, wanting to get away from the politics of Scotland Yard’s Metropolitan Police Force. While Jack enjoys the new surroundings, he is less than impressed by some less than dedicated fellow officers. A series of babies have been found murdered around Essex, snuffed out soon after birth and placed in a variety of locations. Baffled as to how he might start his investigation, Jack turns to his uncle, Percy, who remains a Detective Inspector with the Met. There has been a rise in unwanted children throughout the urban areas, England’s orphanages are overrun, yet there are too few families seeking to adopt through legal means. This has brought about the rise in baby farming, where women are peddling abandoned children to finicky couples, but the ‘leftovers’ are disposed of in quick order. These women disappear as quickly as they emerge on the scene, leaving the Enrights to chase their tails. Meanwhile, Esther has been biding her time with three children while Jack is away at work, though has been filling her time promoting Church-based adoptions, though the stories she learns leave her highly distressed. As Jack and Percy need to develop a sting operation to catch one suspected baby farmer, they turn to Esther and a new member of the family, hoping that this will quell the number of babies found disposed of like rubbish. It’s surely a matter of dismantling the operation, beginning with the lowest rungs on the ladder. Field provides an excellent plot for this piece, against a controversial backdrop in English history. Fans of the series will likely enjoy this latest piece, as might those readers who love Victorian mysteries that are read in short order.

I make a point of promoting David Field whenever I can, as his writing is not only easy to comprehend, but provides the reader with some context into the goings-on during the Victorian era. London and environs come to life in these pieces, as do some of the political issues of the day, some of which are still matters of contention. I rushed through the first few novels in the series when contacted by the publisher, and knew that I would return as soon as more novels appeared in publication. Field uses the story’s setting effectively, shifting focus to Essex without losing the narrative’s strength. Jack and Esther remain strong characters and some new developments in their familial and character aspects help pull the reader into the middle of this latest story. With an ever-growing family, the topic of baby deaths surely hits home for the Enrights, though they do not allow this to derail their attention to the crimes at hand. Field does well to never leave the reader without some new aspect of this couple, who play off one another well, without becoming too predictable. Percy and some of the other supporting characters do well to ride the wave of the narrative, helping to enrich the criminal investigation and adding unique flavours that permit Field to explore the topic at hand from a variety of vantage points. Field keeps the story fairly straightforward, though can never be accused of diluting or oversimplifying things for the curious reader. While Victorian England was surely not a time of sexual repression, contraceptives were still not readily discussed, pushing abortion into an unspoken realm. This left England with a surplus of babies and no means of handling the situation effectively. Scores of unwanted babies, abandoned for lack of desire or ability to care for them surely became a major issue, though the authorities of the time could not turn a blind eye. Field effectively educates without pushing out a soap box on the issue, permitting the reader to create their own opinion. These short reads can be digested in a single day, as I have done here, without feeling cheated. One can only hope that Field’s collection of ideas does not dry up anytime soon, as these novels are perfect for a reader who enjoys historical fiction.

Kudos, Mr. Field, for another success. I see a few more pieces are coming down the pipeline and I anticipate their arrival!

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Posing Playwright (Esther and Jack Enright #5), by David Field

Eight stars

Victorian England’s criminal element comes to life in the writing of David Field. The reader can be assured of another strong Esther and Jack Enright tale, chock full of mystery and intrigue. Having served Scotland Yard for a few years, Jack Enright is transferred into a new position in the Political Division, alongside his uncle, Percy. Together, they are tasked with protecting some of England’s upper crust and helping in similar capacities. It is around this time that playwright Oscar Wilde has brought suit against the Marquess of Queensberry for calling him a sodomite. The Enrights have been tasked with trying to collect additional information to support the claim that Wilde is anything but a friendly artist. An additional case has come to light, one that has Percy scratching his head. A member of the British Government, hailing from Ireland, has gone missing. Known not to support Irish Home Rule, he was last seen in his private rail car travelling on a train. Now, both the car and his lordship have disappeared into thin air, while the Fenian population remains coy about any recent actions. While Jack has been rubbing elbows with the ‘riff-raff’ and finding it harder to stomach the investigation into WIlde’s background, Percy is off learning everything there is about rail lines and how train cars are swapped at various points along the journey. Both are coming up short, though with a little insight from dear Esther Enright, the cases take interesting turns. With all eyes on the Old Bailey and the reputation of Wilde in the balance, there may be more than simply a missing politician gumming up the railway mystery. Another interesting tale with Field at the helm, as he entertains his readers with another quick read. Recommended for those who enjoy this series and the newcomer in need of a wonderfully crafted mystery that can be devoured in short order.

I was introduced to David Field and his work a while ago and feel that these novels have found a decent niche in the genre. I rushed through the first few novels in the series when contacted by the publisher, and knew that I would return as soon as more novels appeared in publication. Field uses Victorian England as his setting, though the focus seems less to be on the eerie aspects and simply on the type of character one might have normally found, tossing out the odd Cockney phrase. The story mixes in a handful of strong characters to propel this story forward, adding entertainment with a great dose of education, particularly as it relates to the way homosexuality was adjudicated at the time. Esther Enright, married and a mother of three (!!), again plays a smaller role, but she is used effectively as a voice of reason. Her banter with both her husband and uncle proves useful to counteract the sporadic and ‘fly off the handle’ mentality of the male Enrights. Jack and Percy are strong protagonists in their own rights. The reader is able to learn a little more about the way in which Victorian England handled sexual freedom, particularly male homosexuality, at the time. One must always remember the setting and time period before judging the characters’ sentiments too harshly. Field effectively reflects the time through Jack’s views and the experiences he has while investigating the case. Percy, on the other hand, becomes educated in the art of railways and all that can be contained within that vast area of knowledge. He is pleasant enough, though gritty when it comes to getting to the bottom of a case. Still, both men remain quite pigheaded, something that has driven them throughout the series and works well for the reader who enjoys a little entertainment. The secondary characters prove entertaining within the pages of this story, using clipped speech and salty sayings to take the reader inside the less refined parts of London while also allowing a sense of being in the middle of the action. The story flows well and can be said to have a unique flavour, while keeping a decent pace. As always, there is a mix of quick and longer chapters that never hamper the narrative from moving forward. Field has little time to develop his plot, but injects a mix of drama and humour at the right moments, with dialogue banter to keep the reader feeling in the middle of the experience. The writing leaves the reader wanting more, surely the sign of a well-developed story. Field has done a masterful job with these novels and I await another book in the near future. I can only hope that Field will continue crafting these addictive stories for fans who find them so enthralling.

Kudos, Mr. Field, for this wonderful novel. I am eager to read more Esther and Jack stories and hope others will follow my lead.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The. Slum Reaper (Esther and Jack Enright #4), by David Field

Eight stars

Victorian England’s criminal element comes to life in the writing of David Field. The reader can be assured of another strong Esther and Jack Enright tale, chock full of mystery and intrigue. After saving two young children in a harrowing act of bravery, young Inspector Jack Enright is sidelined with a severely broken leg. Not wanting to suffer from too much work atrophy, he accepts a temporary secondment to Records, while his uncle, Detective Sergeant Percy Enright holds down the fort within the Metropolitan Police. When Jack is recuperating, his wife, Esther comes to him with an odd request. Their neighbour’s niece seems to have gone missing without reason. While Jack is not able to convince his uncle to open a formal investigation, it does come on the heels of a number of gruesome discoveries in another part of London. The bodies of a few lower-class citizens have been uncovered in the debris of a recently razed building that is scheduled to be quickly rebuilt. Sergeant Enright begins an investigation and soon discovers that the builders may have hired a rent collector who had a strong-fisted way of handling those who refused to pay. This missing girl, Emily Broome, was a governess in a well-to-do home, though it is only upon pressing the matter that Enright learns that the twin boys have also gone missing. Enright continues to press for information as a new body is found in the rubble, one that matches Broome’s description. With no sign of the children, Enright is forced to juggle two cases, seemingly off the books, and use his nephew to press for leads amongst the criminal records of some in London’s underbelly. Unable to procure all the information needed, Percy and Jack press Esther to return to her role of unpaid, undercover agent for the Metropolitan Police. What Esther learns may be invaluable, though someone has their eye on her (again!) and will stop at nothing to keep the truth from coming out. Field presents another winner in this series. While the story may be brief, it should not indicate anything less than a stellar reading experience. Perfect for those who love Victorian murder mysteries and prefer something that can be read in short order.

I was introduced to David Field and his work not too long ago and feel that these novels have found a decent niche in the genre. After devouring a few novels for the publisher, I knew that I would return as soon as more novels appeared in publication. Field uses Victorian England yet again as an eerie setting, mixing in a handful of strong characters to propel this story forward. This turns a compact plot into something both exciting and easy to enjoy. Esther Enright, married and a mother of two, again plays a smaller role, but she is used effectively as a decoy and undercover agent. Her banter with many of the characters provides a lighter thread in the story, but she is also keen on injecting her own wisdom with a wonderful female perspective. Jack also takes a backseat in this piece, but has come to grow into fatherhood effectively and serves to prop-up his uncle effectively throughout this story. Jack and Esther continue complementing one another so well as they work yet another crime together, in new and exciting roles. The novel is surely one in which Detective Sergeant Percy Enright not only steals the spotlight, but has much development as he cracks the case wide open. Field has effectively used Percy in the past, but it was this novel that I felt he stepped out of his nephew’s shadow and served to propel the story forward in an effective manner. The secondary characters prove entertaining within the pages of this story, using Cockney speech and salty sayings to take the reader inside the less refined parts of London while also allowing a sense of being in the middle of the action. The story flows well, unique from past pieces, and keeps a decent pace, with a mix of quick and longer chapters that never hamper the narrative from moving forward. Field has but a short time to develop his plot, but injects a mix of dram and humour into the piece, with decent dialogue banter, when time permits. The writing leaves the reader wanting more, the sign of a well-developed story. Field has done a masterful job with these novels and I await another book in the near future. I can only hope that Field will continue crafting these addictive stories for fans who find them so enthralling.

Kudos, Mr. Field, for this wonderful novel. I am eager to read more Esther and Jack stories and hope others will follow my lead.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Prodigal Sister (Esther and Jack Enright #3), by David Field

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to David Field and Sapere Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Victorian England comes alive when David Field writes, particularly its criminal element. In another Esther and Jack Enright tale, the reader is transported to yet another murder scene, full of mystery and intrigue. When a woman’s body is found dead on the train tracks late one night, the police are called in to investigate. Detective Constable Jack Enright and his uncle, Detective Sergeant Percy Enright are directed to begin amassing evidence and leads, in hopes of discovering what might have happened to young Marianne Ormonde, the presumed victim. While Jack begins sleuthing, Esther is learning the ropes of motherhood, home with baby Lily. Esther has seen much change in her life, though caring for a little one is surely the most trying experience she’s had to undertake. After seeking to advise Marianne’s brother, Edgar, of her suspected death, Jack and Percy are left to wonder if they have a viable suspect. Standoffish and unwilling to help, Edgar Ormonde tries to deflect knowing anything, though other witnesses place him not only at the scene, but aboard the same train his sister rode. Needing an insider’s glimpse into the Ormonde family, Jack persuades Esther to go undercover again to lay a trap. While Esther is happy to help, she can only remember how she was almost killed on Jack’s last two major cases. Using some unorthodox techniques, Esther is able to shake Edgar to the core, but will it be enough to have him confess to murder? Field presents another winner in this series, whose brevity should not indicate that it is anything less than stellar. Perfect for those who love Victorian murder mysteries and prefer something that can be read in short order.

I was recently introduced to David Field and his work, which seems to have found a decent niche in the genre. After devouring a few novels in the past week, I knew this entire series would be on my ‘binge’ list. Field uses Victorian England as an eerie setting, as well as a handful of strong characters to propel this story forward, turning a compact plot into something both exciting and easy to enjoy. Esther Enright, now married and a mother, plays a lesser role in this novel, though her presence is still felt. She has been forced to adapt to a significant change in her life and has periods when she cannot help but wish that her husband would accept a more mundane position within Scotland Yard. Jack, on the other hand, is thoroughly enjoying this detective position, but can see the wonders of being a father and his young family, something that he is sure to miss the more hours he clocks while chasing the scum of the city. Jack and Esther continue complementing one another so well as they work yet another crime together, in new and exciting roles. The secondary characters prove entertaining within the pages of this story, using Cockney speech and salty sayings to take the reader inside the less refined parts of London while also allowing a sense of being in the middle of the action. The story flows well, unique from the past two pieces, and keeps a decent pace, with quick chapters helping propel things forward. Field has but a short time to develop his narrative, but always injects humour and banter when time permits. The writing leaves the reader wanting to know more and pushing to find out how a lack of forensic technology might be used to corner a seemingly obvious criminal. Field has done a masterful job with these novels and I await a fourth book’s release in the coming weeks. I can only hope that Field will continue crafting these addictive stories for fans who find them so enthralling.

Kudos, Mr. Field, for this wonderful novel. I am eager to read more Esther and Jack stories and hope others will follow my lead.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Night Caller (Esther and Jack Enright Mysteries #2), by David Field

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to David Field and Sapere Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

A continued exploration of Victorian England’s criminal underbelly through the eyes of David Field proves to be a wonderful escape for the curious reader. With Esther and Jack preparing to marry, there is much to do, including finding the perfect dress. In an attempt to counterbalance the drama of such an event, Esther finds herself offered a job working for the National Women’s Labour Alliance, a union hoping to bring support to women working across London. Still in its infancy, the Alliance hopes to be a driving force in changing work practices for the better and has a firecracker leading the charge. Meanwhile, Jack Enright has accepted a role as Detective Constable with Scotland Yard. His Uncle Percy, a long-time copper, has taken Jack under his wing and will show him the art of detecting. Their first case pertains to someone breaking into the homes of women and stealing their…unmentionables. With these thefts comes written demands that the women immediately distance themselves from the Alliance. While most events were undertaken when the women were away or sleeping, the culprit has become brazen and removed a few pairs from women while the knickers were still in place. Could this be a crime of a sexual nature and one of a sicko? Jack and Percy put their heads together and share what they know, bringing Esther into the conversation, only to see that she might have some insight. Working the case from two angles, Esther will try to sleuth out information from within the Alliance while Jack and Percy follow leads to nab the thief. Things take a significant turn when the thieving turns to murder, putting Esther in the middle of what could be an extremely dangerous assignment. As London looks to turn a page on its industrial history, a murderer lurks in the shadows, wanting to halt things before they get started. The wedding will have to take a backseat as long as there is a case to be solved, though nothing will keep these lovebirds from tying the proverbial knot. Another great mystery that reads so swiftly and with ease. Recommended for those who enjoy Victorian crime thrillers.

I was recently introduced to David Field and his work by an eager publisher. After devouring the first novel, I knew I would have to get my hands on the follow-up, which has proven to be just as entertaining. Field uses an intriguing setting, Victorian England, and some strong characters to propel this story into something both exciting and easy to enjoy. Esther Jacobs remains a strong protagonist as she uses her strong personality to enchant many of those she meets. Her role as a union member and clerk is not downplayed by Field whatsoever, but proves essential to the entire plot. She is both determined and willing to listen, which helps her sleuth undetected. Detective Constable Jack Enright’s passion for policing is apparent, which he has undertaken with gusto. Field paints his male protagonist as a dedicated copper and one who wants to rid the streets of this thief/killer, but also protect Esther. Jack and Esther complement one another so well, working the crime as effectively as their impending cohabitation. Field is able to develop this connection without making Enright appearing any less crime-focussed. The secondary characters again fit perfectly into this story, using their Cockney speech and wayward manner to take the reader inside the less refined parts of London while also allowing a sense of being in the middle of the action. The story itself flows well and keeps a decent pace as the chapters pass by quickly. With only a short time for Field to develop his narrative, there is little time for extemporaneous blather, but always a chance to inject some humour into happenings. The writing leaves the reader wanting to know more and pushing to find out who might be responsible for these dastardly crimes with female victims. Field has done a masterful job with these first two novels and I have a third awaiting my perusal. I can only hope that he keeps writing these sorts of mysteries for all to enjoy.

Kudos, Mr. Field, for this wonderful follow-up novel. I am eager to get my hands on more Esther and Jack stories and hope others will follow my lead.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons

The Gaslight Stalker (The Esther and Jack Enright Mysteries #1), by David Field

Eight stars

First and foremost, a large thank you to David Field and Sapere Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Exploring Victorian England’s criminal underbelly through the eyes of David Field proves not only to be a harrowing experience for the reader, but one that pays off exponentially. In the summer of 1888, young Esther Jacobs makes her way down to one of the popular drinking establishments in search of her neighbour. While Esther does make her plea, it falls on deaf ears and the young seamstress returns home empty-handed. When she wakes the next morning, news of her neighbour’s murder brings Esther back to the seedy neighbourhood, shocked to learn the horrible news. It is there that she meets Constable Jack Enright, who tries to learn what Esther might have seen. Piecing together what other witnesses have mentioned, Esther is able to guide Constable Enright in the proper direction and turns into a valuable citizen on the investigation. It would seem that the slain woman was seeking to play her role as a prostitute for some local soldiers, something that baffles Esther. When more women turn up dead, also providing ‘nighttime services’, Esther and Constable Enright worry that a serial killer is on the loose, his murderous rampage leaving the victims horribly gutted. During their investigation, both Esther and Jack—as he likes to be known when not on duty—develop a romantic connection that seems to pose problems in the Enright household. Still, Esther holds firm to her love and yet is able to keep a level head when dealing with the police. As Scotland Yard is seeking a quick solution to this murder spree, Esther is able to weasel out some key information that might help find a murderer. The papers report letters attributing the murders to a ‘Jack the Ripper’, leaving London to wonder if their serial killer has been named, his identity still veiled. Field does a masterful job in weaving this historical murder mystery through a short narrative. Perfect for those who love mysteries set in the Victorian Era.

This is my introduction to David Field and his work, but it will surely not be my last. When the publisher asked if I would read this series debut, I did not hesitate to add it to my pile, especially after reading the dust jacket summary. Field hooks the reader from the outset, not only with his setting, Victorian England, but also with his ability to paint characters in such a colourful fashion. Esther Jacobs emerges onto the scene and her character develops quickly from there. An orphan who is working to keep her family business afloat, Esther’s naïveté is soon challenged with the rough speech of those around her and the murder investigation in which she finds herself working. Esther’s softness is complemented by Constable Jack Enright, who is new to the police, but whose family has deep roots within Scotland Yard and is well-established with money and prestige. While Jack is not ensconced in this lifestyle, Field injects some family members to show what money and power can do. Some of the secondary characters fit perfectly into the story, complete with their Cockney speech and wayward manner, allowing the reader to feel as though they are in the middle of the action. The story itself flows well and keeps a decent pace. With only a short time for Field to develop his narrative, there is little time for extemporaneous blather. Quick chapters keep the reader wanting to know more and pushing to find out who might be responsible for this string of murders. Plus, with the Jack the Ripper theme peppering the story, everyone is left to wonder if this might have been part of his early killings. I can only hope that Field keeps writing these sorts of mysteries for all to enjoy.

Kudos, Mr. Field, for this wonderful debut. I am eager to get my hands on the next Esther and Jack novel, which could be a very exciting series for sure.

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/248185-a-book-for-all-seasons