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Barker & Llewelyn #12
Dance with Death
London, 1893: Private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn are called in to protect Tsesarevich Nicholas from nefarious forces as he travels to England for a royal wedding―in Dance with Death , the next mystery in Will Thomas’s beloved series.
In June of 1893, the future Nicholas II travels to London for a royal wedding, bringing with him his private security force and his ballerina mistress, Mathilde Kchessinska. Rumored to be the target of a professional assassin known only as La Sylphide, and the subject of conspiracies against his life by his own family who covet his future throne, Nicholas is protected by not only private security, but the professional forces of both England and Russia.
All of these measures prove inadequate when Prince George of England is attacked by an armed anarchist who mistakes him for Nicholas. As a result, Barker and Llewelyn are brought in to help track down the assassin and others who might conspire against the life of the tsesarevich . The investigations lead them down several paths, including Llewelyn's old nemesis, the assassin Sofia Ilyanova. With Barker and Llewelyn both surviving separate attempts on their lives, the race is on to find both the culprit and the assassin they hired. Taking them through high society (including a masked ball at Kensington Palace) and low, chasing down motives both personal and political, Barker and Llewelyn must solve the case of their life before the crime of the century is committed.
In June of 1893, the future Nicholas II travels to London for a royal wedding, bringing with him his private security force and his ballerina mistress, Mathilde Kchessinska. Rumored to be the target of a professional assassin known only as La Sylphide, and the subject of conspiracies against his life by his own family who covet his future throne, Nicholas is protected by not only private security, but the professional forces of both England and Russia.
All of these measures prove inadequate when Prince George of England is attacked by an armed anarchist who mistakes him for Nicholas. As a result, Barker and Llewelyn are brought in to help track down the assassin and others who might conspire against the life of the tsesarevich . The investigations lead them down several paths, including Llewelyn's old nemesis, the assassin Sofia Ilyanova. With Barker and Llewelyn both surviving separate attempts on their lives, the race is on to find both the culprit and the assassin they hired. Taking them through high society (including a masked ball at Kensington Palace) and low, chasing down motives both personal and political, Barker and Llewelyn must solve the case of their life before the crime of the century is committed.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published April 13, 2021
188 people are currently reading
2,446 people want to read
About the author
Will Thomas
49Ìýbooks1,059ÌýfollowersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
Will Thomas, born 1958 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is a novelist who writes a Victorian mystery series featuring Cyrus Barker, a Scottish detective or "private enquiry agent," and his Welsh assistant, Thomas Llewelyn. The Barker/Llewelyn novels are set in the 1880s and often feature historical events, people, and movements. Martial combat is a recurring theme throughout this hardboiled series.
Prior to writing novels, Will Thomas wrote essays for Sherlock Holmes society publications and lectured on crime fiction of the Victorian era.
Will Thomas' first novel, Some Danger Involved, was nominated for a Barry Award and a Shamus Award, and won the 2005 Oklahoma Book Award. In 2015, he won the Oklahoma Book Award a second time for Fatal Enquiry. Will Thomas has been featured on the cover of Library Journal, and was the Toastmaster at the 2007 Great Manhattan Mystery Conclave in Manhattan, Kansas. His fifth novel, The Black Hand, was nominated for a 2009 Shamus Award. He is married to author Julia Bryan Thomas.
Series:
.
Will Thomas, born 1958 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is a novelist who writes a Victorian mystery series featuring Cyrus Barker, a Scottish detective or "private enquiry agent," and his Welsh assistant, Thomas Llewelyn. The Barker/Llewelyn novels are set in the 1880s and often feature historical events, people, and movements. Martial combat is a recurring theme throughout this hardboiled series.
Prior to writing novels, Will Thomas wrote essays for Sherlock Holmes society publications and lectured on crime fiction of the Victorian era.
Will Thomas' first novel, Some Danger Involved, was nominated for a Barry Award and a Shamus Award, and won the 2005 Oklahoma Book Award. In 2015, he won the Oklahoma Book Award a second time for Fatal Enquiry. Will Thomas has been featured on the cover of Library Journal, and was the Toastmaster at the 2007 Great Manhattan Mystery Conclave in Manhattan, Kansas. His fifth novel, The Black Hand, was nominated for a 2009 Shamus Award. He is married to author Julia Bryan Thomas.
Series:
.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
March 25, 2021
This is one of those series that is on my annual to-read list. Each book delivers an atmospheric tale full of mystery & intrigue set in Victorian England. But I also enjoy catching up with Barker & Llewelyn because after 11 books together, I kind of feel like a third partner.
In this outing, B&L are tasked with protecting Tsarevich Nicholas of Russia who is in town for the wedding of one of his royal cousins. It seems there are those who believe he’d make a terrible Tsar & prefer he not make it back to St. Petersburg. Dissidents, anarchists, Marxists & even members of the royal household�.unfortunately there’s no shortage of potential suspects. Throw in one remarkably accurate sniper & it’s clear the enquiry agents have their work cut out for them.
On the personal side of things, Barker continues to be the intriguing & enigmatic half of the partnership. Llewelyn is enjoying married life, still amazed Rebecca said yes. But when a shadowy figure from his past reappears, that relationship is tested.
All the regular cast is back. With the arrival of Rebecca, Barker’s big house is a busier place for majordomo Mac. He thinks he runs things but let’s not kid ourselves. The real power continues to be wielded by Harm, Barker’s aloof Pekingese. Who’d have thunk so much attitude could be contained in one small, floofy dog.
As usual, there are several subplots running alongside the main course. Secondary characters, particularly those from “lower� classes, add colour & the mix of vernaculars is frequently entertaining. From Buckingham Palace to seedy bedsits in gaslit alleys, the author effectively evokes the period so you feel like you’re walking (or running) with the MC’s.
By the end, those behind the plot are unmasked & it’s clear Nicholas� problems have just begun (and we all know how THAT turned out 😧 ). But the author also delivers one final surprise that guarantees we’ll be waiting anxiously for book #13.
In this outing, B&L are tasked with protecting Tsarevich Nicholas of Russia who is in town for the wedding of one of his royal cousins. It seems there are those who believe he’d make a terrible Tsar & prefer he not make it back to St. Petersburg. Dissidents, anarchists, Marxists & even members of the royal household�.unfortunately there’s no shortage of potential suspects. Throw in one remarkably accurate sniper & it’s clear the enquiry agents have their work cut out for them.
On the personal side of things, Barker continues to be the intriguing & enigmatic half of the partnership. Llewelyn is enjoying married life, still amazed Rebecca said yes. But when a shadowy figure from his past reappears, that relationship is tested.
All the regular cast is back. With the arrival of Rebecca, Barker’s big house is a busier place for majordomo Mac. He thinks he runs things but let’s not kid ourselves. The real power continues to be wielded by Harm, Barker’s aloof Pekingese. Who’d have thunk so much attitude could be contained in one small, floofy dog.
As usual, there are several subplots running alongside the main course. Secondary characters, particularly those from “lower� classes, add colour & the mix of vernaculars is frequently entertaining. From Buckingham Palace to seedy bedsits in gaslit alleys, the author effectively evokes the period so you feel like you’re walking (or running) with the MC’s.
By the end, those behind the plot are unmasked & it’s clear Nicholas� problems have just begun (and we all know how THAT turned out 😧 ). But the author also delivers one final surprise that guarantees we’ll be waiting anxiously for book #13.
March 14, 2021
An unusual pair of Victorian detectives, a Russian prince in danger from an unknown assassin and a royal wedding. The Tsarevich of Russia, Nicholas is in London to attend the wedding of Queen Victoria’s son George to Mary of Teck. One of his Abyssinian Guards, an American and ex boxer, Mr. Hercules calls on Barker and Llewelyn to assist with guarding the Tsarevich‘s life. Nicholas is the heir to the Russian throne.
Although the pair hesitate, it’s not long before they’re in the thick of plots and subplots. Some fascinating historical observations and detail are in evidence as the pair close in on the truth of the matter.
This was my first Barker & Llewelyn title. I think my enjoyment of the title suffered from that. I’m sure I would’ve been more sympatico with them if I’d read previous works and had a better understanding of their history.
A St. Martin's Press ARC via NetGalley
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Although the pair hesitate, it’s not long before they’re in the thick of plots and subplots. Some fascinating historical observations and detail are in evidence as the pair close in on the truth of the matter.
This was my first Barker & Llewelyn title. I think my enjoyment of the title suffered from that. I’m sure I would’ve been more sympatico with them if I’d read previous works and had a better understanding of their history.
A St. Martin's Press ARC via NetGalley
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
April 13, 2021
This series has held my interest for 15 plus years? That is amazing I think. My immediate return to the Victorian era and the evolving relationship of Barker and Llewelyn, now including Llewelyn's wife, is at once warm and familiar. As I turned the final page of this book I began to look forward with anticipation for what Mr. Thomas will deliver next year.
We begin this lively episode with something new, a client by the name of Jim Hercules who serves the Russians as a sort of lifeguard over tsarevich Nicholas, comes asking for help to protect his charge. They are in London for festivities surrounding a wedding for one of Victoria's family and there are rumors of assassination threats.
The assignment they accept will be another challenging and physically demanding exercise. The novel means Barker uses to assist them in preventing assassination includes utilizing the young street children with promise of reward, providing police whistles to help them find where the threat is coming from.
If you are familiar with the series you know there will be some demonstration of physical athleticism at some point, and there is a bout between Jim Hercules, former boxer, and Barker. There will be special strains on Thomas when the female assassin is identified as one who had earlier made him captive.
This is a very enjoyable read and I thank Random House for this book I finally received in the mail after a long delay as a "Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ Giveaway"...Lucky me!
Note: many real historical figures are included in this book such as Jim Hercules and Eleanor Marx.
We begin this lively episode with something new, a client by the name of Jim Hercules who serves the Russians as a sort of lifeguard over tsarevich Nicholas, comes asking for help to protect his charge. They are in London for festivities surrounding a wedding for one of Victoria's family and there are rumors of assassination threats.
The assignment they accept will be another challenging and physically demanding exercise. The novel means Barker uses to assist them in preventing assassination includes utilizing the young street children with promise of reward, providing police whistles to help them find where the threat is coming from.
If you are familiar with the series you know there will be some demonstration of physical athleticism at some point, and there is a bout between Jim Hercules, former boxer, and Barker. There will be special strains on Thomas when the female assassin is identified as one who had earlier made him captive.
This is a very enjoyable read and I thank Random House for this book I finally received in the mail after a long delay as a "Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ Giveaway"...Lucky me!
Note: many real historical figures are included in this book such as Jim Hercules and Eleanor Marx.
April 24, 2021
I am always excited to read a book combining a clever plot and well developed characters set in an interesting historical period. Therefore, I was salivating when the latest book in the Barker and Llewelyn series arrived. The series combines crackling characters, plenty of repartee in the dialogue and meticulous research describing the waning years of the Victorian era. The twelfth book in the series maintains the high standard set forth in the earlier installments.
Will Thomas draws on an actual event from 1893 and constructs an imagined drama that captivates and entertains. Tsarevich Nicholas, heir to the Russian throne, visits London to attend the wedding of his cousin, George, Queen Victoria’s second son, to Princess Mary Teck. Europe is fermenting with radical ideas that question the viability of the existing hierarchical social order and the upcoming spectacle elicits conflicting responses. The aristocracy is delighted at another event that strengthens the alliances among the ruling houses of Europe.Social reformers,including ordinary citizens, Socialists and anarchists are questioning the expense of this display of wealth and consanguinity at a time when much of the populace is poor and hungry.
Barker and Llewelyn receive a caller, Jim Hercules.He is a black man from Alabama who is a former boxer who is now a member of Nicholas� security force.He is fond of the young and impetuous heir and fears that an attempt is afoot to assassinate the young Prince.Although both the Russians and British are providing security, there are factions from both countries who have doubts about Nicholas� capabilities as a future ruler and would like to see him permanently removed from the line of inheritance.Jim has befriended the young man and would like the private enquiry agents to provide an unofficial level of protection. Although the duo initially decline the assignment, subsequent events draw them into the maelstrom of events.
Their reluctantly assumed task brings them into contact with royalty,socialists, anarchists, assassins and the detritus of London street life. They cross paths with Eleanor Marx, Karl’s daughter, William Morris, social revolutionary and creator of the Morris chair, and Prince George of Greece and Denmark. The intermingling of the fictional and historical characters works well and humanizes historical events that can sometimes seem remote and not understood in personal terms.
Barker and Llewelyn are wonderfully conceived characters. I have always thought that they are derivative of Holmes and Watson, portraying a different segment of the rapidly evolving social structure.They are embedded close to the halls of power but are not English per se. Barker is Scots. Llewelyn is Welsh. They embody an amalgam of cultures and influences and bring a slightly different perspective to the pursuit and dispensation of justice. Reacquainting with these characters is always a delight.A reader who has never met them will be in for a newly discovered pleasure.
Will Thomas draws on an actual event from 1893 and constructs an imagined drama that captivates and entertains. Tsarevich Nicholas, heir to the Russian throne, visits London to attend the wedding of his cousin, George, Queen Victoria’s second son, to Princess Mary Teck. Europe is fermenting with radical ideas that question the viability of the existing hierarchical social order and the upcoming spectacle elicits conflicting responses. The aristocracy is delighted at another event that strengthens the alliances among the ruling houses of Europe.Social reformers,including ordinary citizens, Socialists and anarchists are questioning the expense of this display of wealth and consanguinity at a time when much of the populace is poor and hungry.
Barker and Llewelyn receive a caller, Jim Hercules.He is a black man from Alabama who is a former boxer who is now a member of Nicholas� security force.He is fond of the young and impetuous heir and fears that an attempt is afoot to assassinate the young Prince.Although both the Russians and British are providing security, there are factions from both countries who have doubts about Nicholas� capabilities as a future ruler and would like to see him permanently removed from the line of inheritance.Jim has befriended the young man and would like the private enquiry agents to provide an unofficial level of protection. Although the duo initially decline the assignment, subsequent events draw them into the maelstrom of events.
Their reluctantly assumed task brings them into contact with royalty,socialists, anarchists, assassins and the detritus of London street life. They cross paths with Eleanor Marx, Karl’s daughter, William Morris, social revolutionary and creator of the Morris chair, and Prince George of Greece and Denmark. The intermingling of the fictional and historical characters works well and humanizes historical events that can sometimes seem remote and not understood in personal terms.
Barker and Llewelyn are wonderfully conceived characters. I have always thought that they are derivative of Holmes and Watson, portraying a different segment of the rapidly evolving social structure.They are embedded close to the halls of power but are not English per se. Barker is Scots. Llewelyn is Welsh. They embody an amalgam of cultures and influences and bring a slightly different perspective to the pursuit and dispensation of justice. Reacquainting with these characters is always a delight.A reader who has never met them will be in for a newly discovered pleasure.
March 30, 2021
Series: Barker and Llewelyn #12
Publication Date: 4/13/21
Number of Pages: 320
Russians have invaded London! Well, not really, but it sure seems like it in this newest release in the Victorian Barker and Llewelyn series. The enigmatic Barker and the intrepid Llewelyn definitely have their work cut out for them in trying to untangle the web of intrigue and assassination aimed at Russia’s royal family � or is it England’s royal family in the crosshairs? Oh! You’ll not be able to put this one down until the very end, and then you’ll sigh with contentment -- and then frustration because it is all over and you have to wait for the next one.
In the middle of 1893, England is abuzz with news and plans for the upcoming wedding of Queen Victoria’s son George to Princess Mary. Part of that buzz is happy anticipation for England’s royal family and the continuing alliances being made by royal marriages. Another part of that buzz is from citizens, anarchists, and socialists who vociferously protest the massive amount of spending being done for the wedding. In their view, that money could be much better spent on helping the poor, feeding the hungry, etc.
As Barker and Llewelyn sat at their desks, they could hear a lovely, rich, baritone voice in their reception area. As Mr. Llewelyn writes in his notes � He was American, our visitor; no one irons a sentence like an American. He was indeed an American � from Alabama, but that had nothing to do with why he was there. Jim Hercules is a former boxer who is now working in the household of the Tsar of Russia. Jim’s role is more a ceremonial one, but he has befriended the Tsar’s son and heir � Nikolai Alexandrovich. Since he’s sure Nikolai is about to be murdered, he’s come to Barber and Llewelyn to investigate and save Nikolai’s life. While Barker doesn’t immediately accept the case, he does decide to feel things out.
Things are very tense in London at the moment and there are a great many anarchists present who have been persecuted in Russia � they are spoiling to start something � and many of them think assassination would be just the thing to start the revolution that would bring Russia down. As Barker and Llewelyn are passing the palace, they manage to thwart an attempted assassination that almost takes the life of Prince George. Was he really the target? Prince George and Nikolai look very much alike.
It will take all of Barker’s cunning and Llewelyn’s perseverance to keep Nikolai alive. Can they manage it? Nikolai is a spoiled, brattish, immature, child-man who has absolutely no concept of danger. Nikolai throws more wrenches in the works than you can keep up with � he has even brought his mistress along to even further put a wrench in the works.
Who is the assassin called La Sylphide? When you learn, your jaw will drop because, if you’ve read other books in the series, you have met them before. There are twists and turns and things you just won’t see coming before all is solved. Or is it?
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and can highly recommend it. At the end, there is a twist we didn’t see coming and I’m pretty sure it will rear its head again in a future book or two. I didn’t care for Rebecca’s reaction to that twist that came at the end. After all, every bit of that came before she and Thomas were an item. It didn’t detract from the story, and I highly recommend you giving it a try. This is one I’ll definitely read again.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 4/13/21
Number of Pages: 320
Russians have invaded London! Well, not really, but it sure seems like it in this newest release in the Victorian Barker and Llewelyn series. The enigmatic Barker and the intrepid Llewelyn definitely have their work cut out for them in trying to untangle the web of intrigue and assassination aimed at Russia’s royal family � or is it England’s royal family in the crosshairs? Oh! You’ll not be able to put this one down until the very end, and then you’ll sigh with contentment -- and then frustration because it is all over and you have to wait for the next one.
In the middle of 1893, England is abuzz with news and plans for the upcoming wedding of Queen Victoria’s son George to Princess Mary. Part of that buzz is happy anticipation for England’s royal family and the continuing alliances being made by royal marriages. Another part of that buzz is from citizens, anarchists, and socialists who vociferously protest the massive amount of spending being done for the wedding. In their view, that money could be much better spent on helping the poor, feeding the hungry, etc.
As Barker and Llewelyn sat at their desks, they could hear a lovely, rich, baritone voice in their reception area. As Mr. Llewelyn writes in his notes � He was American, our visitor; no one irons a sentence like an American. He was indeed an American � from Alabama, but that had nothing to do with why he was there. Jim Hercules is a former boxer who is now working in the household of the Tsar of Russia. Jim’s role is more a ceremonial one, but he has befriended the Tsar’s son and heir � Nikolai Alexandrovich. Since he’s sure Nikolai is about to be murdered, he’s come to Barber and Llewelyn to investigate and save Nikolai’s life. While Barker doesn’t immediately accept the case, he does decide to feel things out.
Things are very tense in London at the moment and there are a great many anarchists present who have been persecuted in Russia � they are spoiling to start something � and many of them think assassination would be just the thing to start the revolution that would bring Russia down. As Barker and Llewelyn are passing the palace, they manage to thwart an attempted assassination that almost takes the life of Prince George. Was he really the target? Prince George and Nikolai look very much alike.
It will take all of Barker’s cunning and Llewelyn’s perseverance to keep Nikolai alive. Can they manage it? Nikolai is a spoiled, brattish, immature, child-man who has absolutely no concept of danger. Nikolai throws more wrenches in the works than you can keep up with � he has even brought his mistress along to even further put a wrench in the works.
Who is the assassin called La Sylphide? When you learn, your jaw will drop because, if you’ve read other books in the series, you have met them before. There are twists and turns and things you just won’t see coming before all is solved. Or is it?
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and can highly recommend it. At the end, there is a twist we didn’t see coming and I’m pretty sure it will rear its head again in a future book or two. I didn’t care for Rebecca’s reaction to that twist that came at the end. After all, every bit of that came before she and Thomas were an item. It didn’t detract from the story, and I highly recommend you giving it a try. This is one I’ll definitely read again.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 21, 2021
Let me just start with a confession: These books delight me. The characters are so idiosyncratic, the voices ring so true, the use of history is so intriguing. What's not to love?
I have savored this series in order, although it could be read out of order. Barker is a hoot of a protagonist, and totally bizarre—but in a believable sort of way. Llewelyn's sarcastic, sly humor is so clear and on-target that I hear his voice in my head when I read these stories. In this installment, the chaos and intrigue of a royal wedding thicken the plot, and I'm glad to see that a young female private detective from an earlier story reappears.
The series just gets better and better, and is showing no sign of "author fatigue." I look forward to the next installment of this truly original voice.
Highly recommended.
I have savored this series in order, although it could be read out of order. Barker is a hoot of a protagonist, and totally bizarre—but in a believable sort of way. Llewelyn's sarcastic, sly humor is so clear and on-target that I hear his voice in my head when I read these stories. In this installment, the chaos and intrigue of a royal wedding thicken the plot, and I'm glad to see that a young female private detective from an earlier story reappears.
The series just gets better and better, and is showing no sign of "author fatigue." I look forward to the next installment of this truly original voice.
Highly recommended.
February 28, 2021
In June 1893 Queen Victoria is still arranging marriages for royals and, indeed, a wedding is about to take place. Arriving in London is Nicholas, the Russian tsarevich, who is in town to attend the wedding of Victoria's son George to Princess Mary of Teck. A member of the Russian household tries to hire Barker & Llewelyn as bodyguards for Nicholas because he fears an attempt will be made by an assassin to kill the young man but is refused. Even though Cyrus Barker is intrigued by the job offer, that is not the type of job the private enquiry agents are interested in taking. The political climate in England at this time makes it impossible for the agency to remain distanced from what is going on within the Russian delegation.
This story is set during a turbulent time in the politics of England and there are many disturbances working their way through the populace. This is also a story where true historical figures can honestly be placed within a story because they are known to have been involved in the politics of this time. William Morris and Eleanor Marx (daughter of Karl Marx) were two characters I was particularly interested in reading about.
I think this is an excellent addition to the Barker and Llewelyn series and it leaves us with quite a revelation which bodes well for the next installment. I will be glad to read that one too. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press Minotaur Books for an e-galley of this novel.
This story is set during a turbulent time in the politics of England and there are many disturbances working their way through the populace. This is also a story where true historical figures can honestly be placed within a story because they are known to have been involved in the politics of this time. William Morris and Eleanor Marx (daughter of Karl Marx) were two characters I was particularly interested in reading about.
I think this is an excellent addition to the Barker and Llewelyn series and it leaves us with quite a revelation which bodes well for the next installment. I will be glad to read that one too. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press Minotaur Books for an e-galley of this novel.
April 13, 2021
I received a free electronic ARC of this historical novel based on actual history from Netgalley, Will Thomas, and St Martin's Press. Thank you all for sharing your hard work with me. I have read 'Dance with Death' of my own volition, and this review reflects my honest opinion of this work. Will Thomas is an author you can count on to bring you an exciting, authentic look into British life in the late 19th century. 'Dances with Death' is the 12th of the Barker & Llewelyn novels, and though the action seems a bit more frantic in this one, it is still fresh with exciting attention to details of life as it transpired in London in 1893.
Our main protagonists are Cyrus Barker the crusty curmudgeon, and the rather brash newly wedded Thomas Llewelyn, inquiry agents in central London. This tale is wrapped around the first Royal wedding in England for 30 years in June of 1893. Royalty from all over Europe had congregated in
London to attend the nuptials, swelling the population of the capital city to overflowing. The secondary purpose of that gathering was to finalize an alliance between Tsarevitch Nicholas II of Russia (Nicholai II Alexandrovich Romanov) and Princess Alix of Hess (Alexandra Feodorovna, granddaughter of Queen Victoria). Barker and Llewelyn are engaged by the self-appointed bodyguard of Nicholas, Jim Hercules, to assist in covering the young prince during the turmoil and excitement of the reunion of Royals in London. And Nicholas II brought plenty of trouble with him to London, including his callow youth, sense of entitlement, and his mistress, prima ballerina of the Saint Petersburg Imperial Theatre, Mathilde Kschessinska. Other notable characters stirred into the mix are Eleanor Marx, daughter of Karl; Grand Duke Sergei Mikhailovich of Russia; Prince George of Greece and Denmark; William Morris, British novelist, and textile designer; Pyotr Rachkovsky, Chief of the Secret Police in Imperial Russia; the English Prince George, Duke of York; the rumored French assassin known only as La Sylphide; and American boxer, bodyguard, and friend of young Nicholas, Jim Hercules.
Dance with Death is a compelling tale told very well. Will Thomas is an author I follow, and can heartily recommend to friends and family. He makes European history exciting and new.
pub date April 13, 2021
St. Martin's Press - Minotaur Books
Reviewed on March 30, 2021, at Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ, and Netgalley. Reviewed on April 13, 2021, at AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, Kobo, and GooglePlay.
Our main protagonists are Cyrus Barker the crusty curmudgeon, and the rather brash newly wedded Thomas Llewelyn, inquiry agents in central London. This tale is wrapped around the first Royal wedding in England for 30 years in June of 1893. Royalty from all over Europe had congregated in
London to attend the nuptials, swelling the population of the capital city to overflowing. The secondary purpose of that gathering was to finalize an alliance between Tsarevitch Nicholas II of Russia (Nicholai II Alexandrovich Romanov) and Princess Alix of Hess (Alexandra Feodorovna, granddaughter of Queen Victoria). Barker and Llewelyn are engaged by the self-appointed bodyguard of Nicholas, Jim Hercules, to assist in covering the young prince during the turmoil and excitement of the reunion of Royals in London. And Nicholas II brought plenty of trouble with him to London, including his callow youth, sense of entitlement, and his mistress, prima ballerina of the Saint Petersburg Imperial Theatre, Mathilde Kschessinska. Other notable characters stirred into the mix are Eleanor Marx, daughter of Karl; Grand Duke Sergei Mikhailovich of Russia; Prince George of Greece and Denmark; William Morris, British novelist, and textile designer; Pyotr Rachkovsky, Chief of the Secret Police in Imperial Russia; the English Prince George, Duke of York; the rumored French assassin known only as La Sylphide; and American boxer, bodyguard, and friend of young Nicholas, Jim Hercules.
Dance with Death is a compelling tale told very well. Will Thomas is an author I follow, and can heartily recommend to friends and family. He makes European history exciting and new.
pub date April 13, 2021
St. Martin's Press - Minotaur Books
Reviewed on March 30, 2021, at Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ, and Netgalley. Reviewed on April 13, 2021, at AmazonSmile, Barnes&Noble, BookBub, Kobo, and GooglePlay.
March 2, 2021
This was such an awesome read. It completely transported me to Victorian England .
The mystery , investigation and villain (villains) was engrossing and entertaining. One of the things I enjoyed the most was all the research involved ...very atmospheric, layered world-building.
I just reviewed Dance with Death by Will Thomas. #NetGalley
The mystery , investigation and villain (villains) was engrossing and entertaining. One of the things I enjoyed the most was all the research involved ...very atmospheric, layered world-building.
I just reviewed Dance with Death by Will Thomas. #NetGalley
July 8, 2021
I really enjoyed this latest in one of my favorite historical mystery series- it is summer of 1893, and Barker & Llewelyn, Enquiry Agents, are drawn into the drama around a royal wedding - and charged with protecting the visiting tsarevich of Russia, the future Nicholas II.
There is apparently an assassin hunting the young royal visitor, but he is a spoiled, rambunctious, bored young man, more interested in arranging rendezvous with his mistress, who has come to London, and expects to marry Nicholas and become tsarina.
There is a lot going on in this one, between Scotland Yard, the Russian Okhrana (security services), and the Home Office, all competing to protect their royal charges, but also protect their spheres of influence. The assassin is taking potshots at Thomas Llewelyn, as well, providing a vital clue to the identity of La Sylphide, the only name our investigators have been given for the elusive killer.
I always get a fun, adventurous Indiana Jones, (or perhaps Sherlock Holmes) feel from these mysteries, as much because of the “Barker & Llewelyn against the world� vibe, as for the quirky repeating cast of characters who populate their world!
I’m afraid I totally forgot an important character from past books - assassin Sofia Ilyanova, an old nemesis. With new books coming out once a year, I think I need to start rereading this series to remind me of the various storylines, in preparation for the next book! It would be a pleasure, as I have always enjoyed these adventurous mysteries, with such interesting characters.
There is apparently an assassin hunting the young royal visitor, but he is a spoiled, rambunctious, bored young man, more interested in arranging rendezvous with his mistress, who has come to London, and expects to marry Nicholas and become tsarina.
There is a lot going on in this one, between Scotland Yard, the Russian Okhrana (security services), and the Home Office, all competing to protect their royal charges, but also protect their spheres of influence. The assassin is taking potshots at Thomas Llewelyn, as well, providing a vital clue to the identity of La Sylphide, the only name our investigators have been given for the elusive killer.
I always get a fun, adventurous Indiana Jones, (or perhaps Sherlock Holmes) feel from these mysteries, as much because of the “Barker & Llewelyn against the world� vibe, as for the quirky repeating cast of characters who populate their world!
I’m afraid I totally forgot an important character from past books - assassin Sofia Ilyanova, an old nemesis. With new books coming out once a year, I think I need to start rereading this series to remind me of the various storylines, in preparation for the next book! It would be a pleasure, as I have always enjoyed these adventurous mysteries, with such interesting characters.
April 26, 2021
Thomas remains a favourite as I eager seek out the newest offerings of Barker and Llewelyn. The victorian atmosphere is pitch=perfect and the chemistry between the two of them which balances a sort of Nero and Archie with a Sherlock Holmes chaser remains a strong suit.
But here, their world continues to expand. I love the romantic strands of Llewelyn's personal life and how we just...almost... get closer to learning more about Barker who is still deliciously enigmatic 12 books in. But the real star of the show is Thomas' obvious interest in the Russian history that infuses the new mystery. Learning about Nicholas II 's time in London adds a wonderfully rich royal history to the well-painted landscape of our heroes' gas-lit world.
There's a timely and prescient exploration of social upheaval that remains a spark and ember in today's current affairs and shows us how far we've come and how far we have left to go as a society.
One the series' strongest offerings..
with thanks to the publisher for the arc.
But here, their world continues to expand. I love the romantic strands of Llewelyn's personal life and how we just...almost... get closer to learning more about Barker who is still deliciously enigmatic 12 books in. But the real star of the show is Thomas' obvious interest in the Russian history that infuses the new mystery. Learning about Nicholas II 's time in London adds a wonderfully rich royal history to the well-painted landscape of our heroes' gas-lit world.
There's a timely and prescient exploration of social upheaval that remains a spark and ember in today's current affairs and shows us how far we've come and how far we have left to go as a society.
One the series' strongest offerings..
with thanks to the publisher for the arc.
June 9, 2024
Barker said “Miss Marx, your organization is composed, in large part, of men and women who fled the pogroms in Russia. The tsarevich, who represents the tsar of the future, has arrived here on this soil. Prince George, also a future leader of his country, is in London as well, whose wedding costs would have been better spent feeding the poor or providing medicine for the infirmed. The Okhrana has been informed that an assassin has been hired to kill Nicholas. There is no available information about this assassin save an odd name, La Sylphide.�
July 11, 2021
Ratings:
Writing 4
Story line 4
Characters 3.5
Impact 3.5
Overall rating 3.75
Writing 4
Story line 4
Characters 3.5
Impact 3.5
Overall rating 3.75
March 27, 2021
Dance With Death is the 12th book in the phenomenal Barker & Llewellyn series by Will Thomas. If you haven't read the previous installments, jump in anyway - I started on book 11. Though references are made to past cases and events, this mystery stands alone. I will warn you, though...you WILL want to go back and see all you missed! I went back and listened to all the audiobooks after I read book 11. (Narrator Antony Ferguson totally brings these characters to life.)
In June of 1893, Tsesarevich Nicholas (the future Nicholas II of Russia) is in London to attend a royal wedding. He brings private security - and his ballerina mistress - with him. Though he has much protection, Nicholas's friend Jim Hercules (who is also one of the Tsesarevich's "Ethiopian" guards) hires private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewellyn for additional security. When an assassin mistakes Prince George of England for Nicholas, Barker and Llewellyn begin the hunt for the killer, who is believed to be a professional assassin known only as "La Sylphide". The enquiry agents follow clues from the London slums to Kensington Palace, and they discover Llewelyn's old nemesis, the assassin Sofia Ilyanova, may be involved. Can they catch the assassin before the assassin catches up with Nicholas?
This book is one of my favorites of the series, and that's saying a lot! I have fallen in love with Barker and Llewellyn and all the other characters, including factotum Mac, secretary Jenkins, Rebecca Llewellyn, Mrs. Ashley, Ho and Harm the dog. The story is narrated by Thomas Llewellyn, my favorite of the lot; he's a smart aleck after my own heart. He and Barker are now full partners, and he's also navigating his still fairly new marriage to Rebecca. I adore the relationship between big, gruff and still mysterious Barker and scholarly and smartass Llewellyn. I was really excited about this storyline as I am related to Nicholas II. He is portrayed here as a brash and immature young man. Other real-life characters make an appearance, most notably Eleanor Marx (daughter of Karl Marx) and socialist activist William Morris. Socialists, communists and anarchists all play a bit part in the story. My favorite parts, however, dealt with the relationship between Llewellyn and Sofia Ilyanova. I love books that make me think, laugh AND cry. Here's to many more adventures with the Barker & Llewellyn Agency!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
In June of 1893, Tsesarevich Nicholas (the future Nicholas II of Russia) is in London to attend a royal wedding. He brings private security - and his ballerina mistress - with him. Though he has much protection, Nicholas's friend Jim Hercules (who is also one of the Tsesarevich's "Ethiopian" guards) hires private enquiry agents Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewellyn for additional security. When an assassin mistakes Prince George of England for Nicholas, Barker and Llewellyn begin the hunt for the killer, who is believed to be a professional assassin known only as "La Sylphide". The enquiry agents follow clues from the London slums to Kensington Palace, and they discover Llewelyn's old nemesis, the assassin Sofia Ilyanova, may be involved. Can they catch the assassin before the assassin catches up with Nicholas?
This book is one of my favorites of the series, and that's saying a lot! I have fallen in love with Barker and Llewellyn and all the other characters, including factotum Mac, secretary Jenkins, Rebecca Llewellyn, Mrs. Ashley, Ho and Harm the dog. The story is narrated by Thomas Llewellyn, my favorite of the lot; he's a smart aleck after my own heart. He and Barker are now full partners, and he's also navigating his still fairly new marriage to Rebecca. I adore the relationship between big, gruff and still mysterious Barker and scholarly and smartass Llewellyn. I was really excited about this storyline as I am related to Nicholas II. He is portrayed here as a brash and immature young man. Other real-life characters make an appearance, most notably Eleanor Marx (daughter of Karl Marx) and socialist activist William Morris. Socialists, communists and anarchists all play a bit part in the story. My favorite parts, however, dealt with the relationship between Llewellyn and Sofia Ilyanova. I love books that make me think, laugh AND cry. Here's to many more adventures with the Barker & Llewellyn Agency!
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
April 23, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this Victorian mystery set in 1893, when the young future Nicholas II comes to London for a wedding and Barker and Llewelyn are hired to protect him from assassination.
This is the 12th in the series, and I jumped in about half way (somewhere around #7, I believe). I've enjoyed them ever since. For those who have not yet met Barker and Llewelyn, they are neither Scotland Yard inspectors nor policemen. They are "private enquiry agents," and readers who enjoy Sherlock Holmes stories will find much to appreciate here in the banter and difference between these two protagonists. As with the Holmes stories, these are narrated by the "sidekick" ... thank goodness because Llewelyn is very likable and funny--a nice offset to the crimes and mayhem; Barker is rather imposing and fierce.
Two of my favorite aspects of these books are first, the humor. It is not ha-ha, elbow in the sides humor. It's subtle--a small wry wink and a nudge to the reader. For example, when Llewelyn and Barker are introduced as "Lewis and Baker," he shrugs it off: "We'd been called worse." There are dozens of these ... I wouldn't even call them one-liners, as sometimes they're merely half a line. But they keep me smiling as I read and give me a sense of connection to and sympathy with Llewelyn.
The other aspect I love is that I feel deeply steeped in Victorian London throughout the book. The author has been writing about Victorian London for years now, and he's familiar enough with the sights and sounds that they appear organically; he doesn't shoehorn them in. The historical figures William Morris and Israel Zangwell appear, and for those readers who know who they are, it's fun to find and recognize them. Beyond that, the very metaphors he uses are drawn very specifically from that English world. Describing trying to find a messenger boy to deliver a note: "The boy slipped by like a salmon on the River Spey." Describing what it was like to be close to a man who was shot: "It was like one of them butchers in Leadenhall market threw a bucket of blood all over us." It's like being immersed in a pot of proper English tea ... or perhaps the Thames!
Despite that last example, these books are not gritty. The violence is largely off the page, and I wouldn't feel uncomfortable recommending these books to my teenage son. I'd recommend to fans of Charles Finch, Alex Grecian (THE YARD, etc.), and Abir Mukherjee (A RISING MAN, etc.).
This is the 12th in the series, and I jumped in about half way (somewhere around #7, I believe). I've enjoyed them ever since. For those who have not yet met Barker and Llewelyn, they are neither Scotland Yard inspectors nor policemen. They are "private enquiry agents," and readers who enjoy Sherlock Holmes stories will find much to appreciate here in the banter and difference between these two protagonists. As with the Holmes stories, these are narrated by the "sidekick" ... thank goodness because Llewelyn is very likable and funny--a nice offset to the crimes and mayhem; Barker is rather imposing and fierce.
Two of my favorite aspects of these books are first, the humor. It is not ha-ha, elbow in the sides humor. It's subtle--a small wry wink and a nudge to the reader. For example, when Llewelyn and Barker are introduced as "Lewis and Baker," he shrugs it off: "We'd been called worse." There are dozens of these ... I wouldn't even call them one-liners, as sometimes they're merely half a line. But they keep me smiling as I read and give me a sense of connection to and sympathy with Llewelyn.
The other aspect I love is that I feel deeply steeped in Victorian London throughout the book. The author has been writing about Victorian London for years now, and he's familiar enough with the sights and sounds that they appear organically; he doesn't shoehorn them in. The historical figures William Morris and Israel Zangwell appear, and for those readers who know who they are, it's fun to find and recognize them. Beyond that, the very metaphors he uses are drawn very specifically from that English world. Describing trying to find a messenger boy to deliver a note: "The boy slipped by like a salmon on the River Spey." Describing what it was like to be close to a man who was shot: "It was like one of them butchers in Leadenhall market threw a bucket of blood all over us." It's like being immersed in a pot of proper English tea ... or perhaps the Thames!
Despite that last example, these books are not gritty. The violence is largely off the page, and I wouldn't feel uncomfortable recommending these books to my teenage son. I'd recommend to fans of Charles Finch, Alex Grecian (THE YARD, etc.), and Abir Mukherjee (A RISING MAN, etc.).
November 26, 2020
It begins with a poetic description of a deep baritone voice, and the captivating Dance with Death begins. In the last decade of the 1890’s, in London, a man, born in British-owned Tortola and raised in Alabama, U.S.A., visits the enquiry agency offices of
Guv Cyrus Baker and Thomas Llewelyn and is asked what duty he would like them to perform. His cogent answer is he isn’t sure but he would like his boss not to be murdered.
This man, Jim Hercules, seems to be a bodyguard for the visiting tsarevich of Russia, Nicholas II, who has come to Britain to attend the wedding of Queen Victoria’s son George.
A supposed attempt on the life of His Highness George sets in motion a frantic search for the possible assassin. With the royal wedding only days away, class and position, plots and passions, unrequited love, and the growing socialist movement all play a part of the past, the present and the future of the Windsor and Romanov families. Historical and colorful characters such as Eleanor, the daughter of Karl Marx, William Morris known for his textiles, Grand Dukes, mistresses, and a prima ballerina are central to the narrative of the Socialist League and social history of that period. Jim Hercules himself was actually the bodyguard to Nicholas and Alexandra until the palace was overrun by Bolsheviks.
This is a beautifully written account of one imaginary event in a period of history with the engaging team of Baker and Llewelyn. Along with the twists and turns of governments, movements, social and political concerns, human desires and weaknesses, it creates a great chase in and around the pubs, parks, offices and palaces of London.
I have found there are 11 previous books for this team, and I can’t imagine how I missed them before.
Guv Cyrus Baker and Thomas Llewelyn and is asked what duty he would like them to perform. His cogent answer is he isn’t sure but he would like his boss not to be murdered.
This man, Jim Hercules, seems to be a bodyguard for the visiting tsarevich of Russia, Nicholas II, who has come to Britain to attend the wedding of Queen Victoria’s son George.
A supposed attempt on the life of His Highness George sets in motion a frantic search for the possible assassin. With the royal wedding only days away, class and position, plots and passions, unrequited love, and the growing socialist movement all play a part of the past, the present and the future of the Windsor and Romanov families. Historical and colorful characters such as Eleanor, the daughter of Karl Marx, William Morris known for his textiles, Grand Dukes, mistresses, and a prima ballerina are central to the narrative of the Socialist League and social history of that period. Jim Hercules himself was actually the bodyguard to Nicholas and Alexandra until the palace was overrun by Bolsheviks.
This is a beautifully written account of one imaginary event in a period of history with the engaging team of Baker and Llewelyn. Along with the twists and turns of governments, movements, social and political concerns, human desires and weaknesses, it creates a great chase in and around the pubs, parks, offices and palaces of London.
I have found there are 11 previous books for this team, and I can’t imagine how I missed them before.
April 19, 2021
Originally posted on my blog: .
Dance with Death is the 12th Barker & Llewelyn Victorian historical mystery by . Released 13th April 2021 by Macmillan on their imprint, it's 320 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is a well established series and the characters are quite finely drawn in a well written whole. The background research is impressive and the descriptions really do call up Victorian London. The story is fictionalized but written around a real historical framework and intertwined so skillfully that it's not always easy to tell where real history shades over into fiction.
The denouement and resolution are well done and satisfying. My only quibble (and it's a fairly minor one) is that the dialogue feels anachronistic in some places. It isn't clunky or awkward, but there is some modern vernacular.
The books are self contained stand-alones, so it's not necessary to have read the books in order to understand what's going on.
High quality historical mystery. Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Dance with Death is the 12th Barker & Llewelyn Victorian historical mystery by . Released 13th April 2021 by Macmillan on their imprint, it's 320 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately.
This is a well established series and the characters are quite finely drawn in a well written whole. The background research is impressive and the descriptions really do call up Victorian London. The story is fictionalized but written around a real historical framework and intertwined so skillfully that it's not always easy to tell where real history shades over into fiction.
The denouement and resolution are well done and satisfying. My only quibble (and it's a fairly minor one) is that the dialogue feels anachronistic in some places. It isn't clunky or awkward, but there is some modern vernacular.
The books are self contained stand-alones, so it's not necessary to have read the books in order to understand what's going on.
High quality historical mystery. Four stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
August 8, 2021
I have loved this series from book one. It always draws me in with an exciting mystery, great background, danger, a little history, and a dash of romance. The characters all feel like friends now, and I love to visit each one again. This book is about Prince Nicholas, of Russia visiting London for his cousins wedding. He is very immature, and unwise. He thinks first about a good time, and less about what is protocol, and safe. His wild living, and spending does not make him popular at home. This is especially true with the socialist party, and the communists, and refugees that have had to leave Russia because they disagree with his father’s politics. An assassin attempts to kill him, but shoots at the crown prince of England instead, who is soon to be married. It gives you the information on spies, and the political opinion of the everyday person. My favorite detectives since Sherlock and Watson, or inquiry agents are invited to help. It was a full time job keeping track of the bored , and spoiled prince. He never seemed that thankful that his life was saved several times. The British government, palace guards, security forces are out foxed , and a royal wedding nearly ruined. The ending was as exciting as it should be, and the continuation to explain the life, and future of the secondary characters was a plus. The book was a five star read as always. The writer has so many sub plots involved that all come to the end together, and that is just as it should be. Lots of brain, and brawn in this duo, plus a little heart which adds the spice.
April 10, 2021
DANCE WITH DEATH is the newest addition to the Barker & Llewelyn series by Will Thomas. Set in the late 1800’s, the book uses real figures from the time to create a plausible mystery with the future Czar of Russia. The place and scene setting is good and the characters themselves are engaging. This was my first book in the series; one that shares many features with other Victorian era mysteries, most notably the many authors� versions of Sherlock Holmes or his sister. For devoted lovers of Holmes and his original times, this book will be a joy. I received my copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
April 15, 2021
This is #12 in a series. Even though it was mentioned that not reading the previous 11 books would not be necessary I feel like I was missing something in the book. The mystery was pretty good. Barker and Llewelyn are assigned to protect the tsarevich who is in London to attend the marriage of his cousin. I found Barker and Llewelyn interesting but I feel I will understand them more after I go back and read the previous books.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy to read.
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy to read.
June 10, 2021
Aloha! Looking forward to the vacation we deserve! Ledward awaits!
August 30, 2024
Rounded up to 4-star. Another good entry in this series: Not amazing but enjoyable and reliable when I need something soothing to read. Strong Russian component and British monarchy. An old character returned in a minor way here and, to my displeasure, is obviously set-up for a major return somewhere in this series' future.
June 8, 2021
Newly discovered series. Not sure how I overlooked this author but I plan to read more of the series. Loved the historical setting.
November 12, 2021
I couldn’t have enjoyed this more. I was immediately immersed and didn’t want to come up for air. That being said, I simultaneously try, with effort, not to end the experience too quickly, but I succumb. Although I value every Will Thomas, there are those in the series that mightily vie for first place in my esteem. Currently Dance with Death wins triumphantly.
January 23, 2023
Rich in period details, Will Thomas spins an exciting adventure of international intrigue and suspense. Barker and Thomas have different temperaments and outlooks on life, but they complement one another in myriad ways to make a clever sleuthing team.
January 13, 2021
This was an interesting private detective mystery with a main character that was easy to like, even though he had a questionable past. That past made the mystery even more compelling. Many of the characters are real people from history, and it was fascinating reading about them in this story. I felt the ending wasn't as satisfying as I wanted it to be, though. It left me feeling sad.
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April 14, 2021Dance with Death is the twelfth book in the Barker & Llewelyn series by Will Thomas. An intriguing story that is sure toÌýtransport the reader to Victorian England. A well-written story that left me wanting more.ÌýÌýDance with DeathÌýan excellent addition to the Barker and Llewelyn series.Ìý
August 18, 2021
Dance With Death is the next entry in the Barker & Llewelyn mystery series and this one focuses on their ability to defend a spoiled tsarevich from being assassinated. While the interaction between our two main characters continued to be interesting, with some intriguing politics thrown in, it was quite a bit slower than previous books.
Thomas Llewelyn has always been a character with whom I could empathize, and I have always enjoyed his slightly sarcastic spin on events and people. His humour is what I would call deprecating, but it is never snarky or condescending, which I appreciate. He is a bit bumbling at times and seems to catch the intentions of his partner, both politically and personally motivated, almost two seconds after everyone else, which still makes me laugh, but he is not portrayed as less intelligent than his partner, just that he doesn't think the same way, something I find interesting psychologically.
I enjoyed most of the other characters as well and enjoyed seeing how the author intertwined the real historical figures with his invented characters to being Nicholas' personality and difficulties to light. I personally would have liked to have seen some more emphasis put on Nicholas' mistress, Mathilde, as even a star such as she would have had a difficult life during this time period. I've seen some grumblings about the author talking about her weight, but during this time period, this is a valid thing to talk about as many of these ballerinas were starving and often were forced to prostitute for the company for which they were working to keep the donations coming in and were paid very little for the hard work they did. We all know the outcome of Nicholas' actions and behaviours today, but I could definitely understand her ambition and her fear.
The overall story was its usual laidback format, but I did find it a bit slower than usual and I was also a bit irritated by Rebecca. I don't want to give away any plot points, so I'll just say that I just rolled my eyes and thought it was so out of context and didn't fit with her personality and the story. Was the author just trying to create some drama? Hard to say, but but for me, it didn't sit well. Too much talk about how men will never understand women; I just felt like the author was trying to create some tension between certain characters for whatever reason and it sort of fell flat. Tension that is believable, okay, but tension just for the sake of creating tension, no.
Dance With Death had some very interesting historical concepts and I definitely enjoyed reading about Nicholas' visit to London for the royal wedding as well as about the attempts on his life. I know the attempts were fictionalized, but so much else actually happened and it is evident the author did a lot of research for this book. I didn't really notice a lot of character development in this one though, and I did think the plot was a bit slower than usual, with some repetitive elements. I also thought the mystery was a bit weaker than usual as it focused far more on the historical aspects and was quite easy to figure out. While you could jump into the series with this entry, there is a lot of information you may miss as the author doesn't really explain the relationships as there is an expectation you are already familiar with the characters.
Thomas Llewelyn has always been a character with whom I could empathize, and I have always enjoyed his slightly sarcastic spin on events and people. His humour is what I would call deprecating, but it is never snarky or condescending, which I appreciate. He is a bit bumbling at times and seems to catch the intentions of his partner, both politically and personally motivated, almost two seconds after everyone else, which still makes me laugh, but he is not portrayed as less intelligent than his partner, just that he doesn't think the same way, something I find interesting psychologically.
I enjoyed most of the other characters as well and enjoyed seeing how the author intertwined the real historical figures with his invented characters to being Nicholas' personality and difficulties to light. I personally would have liked to have seen some more emphasis put on Nicholas' mistress, Mathilde, as even a star such as she would have had a difficult life during this time period. I've seen some grumblings about the author talking about her weight, but during this time period, this is a valid thing to talk about as many of these ballerinas were starving and often were forced to prostitute for the company for which they were working to keep the donations coming in and were paid very little for the hard work they did. We all know the outcome of Nicholas' actions and behaviours today, but I could definitely understand her ambition and her fear.
The overall story was its usual laidback format, but I did find it a bit slower than usual and I was also a bit irritated by Rebecca. I don't want to give away any plot points, so I'll just say that I just rolled my eyes and thought it was so out of context and didn't fit with her personality and the story. Was the author just trying to create some drama? Hard to say, but but for me, it didn't sit well. Too much talk about how men will never understand women; I just felt like the author was trying to create some tension between certain characters for whatever reason and it sort of fell flat. Tension that is believable, okay, but tension just for the sake of creating tension, no.
Dance With Death had some very interesting historical concepts and I definitely enjoyed reading about Nicholas' visit to London for the royal wedding as well as about the attempts on his life. I know the attempts were fictionalized, but so much else actually happened and it is evident the author did a lot of research for this book. I didn't really notice a lot of character development in this one though, and I did think the plot was a bit slower than usual, with some repetitive elements. I also thought the mystery was a bit weaker than usual as it focused far more on the historical aspects and was quite easy to figure out. While you could jump into the series with this entry, there is a lot of information you may miss as the author doesn't really explain the relationships as there is an expectation you are already familiar with the characters.
January 1, 2022
By far my least favorite of the series, primarily because of the following, which I posted as a question on the book's page.
Can someone explain to me why Thomas is suddenly misusing the word "rose" where it should be grammatically "raised"? "The woman rose her hand..." pg 94, "I rose a brow..." pg. 108, "I rose an arm..." pg. 110, "I could already hear her voice rose as I stepped out..." (WHAT EVEN?)pg 135, "The barman rose his club..." pg 159 (that's the last page I've read.) Am I wrong here??? It's driving me batty!!!
It never got any better. Page 258 reads, "Nicholas had blanched and ducked from the rose weapon." It's absolutely inexplicable. It's completely nonsensical. I can assure you that Thomas has never written this before because if this had been in the first book of the series, it would have been the last book for me if I even finished it, which is not likely.
Otherwise, the content too was lackluster, uninspiring and it took me FOREVER to read. Hoping for better things next installment.
Can someone explain to me why Thomas is suddenly misusing the word "rose" where it should be grammatically "raised"? "The woman rose her hand..." pg 94, "I rose a brow..." pg. 108, "I rose an arm..." pg. 110, "I could already hear her voice rose as I stepped out..." (WHAT EVEN?)pg 135, "The barman rose his club..." pg 159 (that's the last page I've read.) Am I wrong here??? It's driving me batty!!!
It never got any better. Page 258 reads, "Nicholas had blanched and ducked from the rose weapon." It's absolutely inexplicable. It's completely nonsensical. I can assure you that Thomas has never written this before because if this had been in the first book of the series, it would have been the last book for me if I even finished it, which is not likely.
Otherwise, the content too was lackluster, uninspiring and it took me FOREVER to read. Hoping for better things next installment.
January 1, 2022
I used to love these stories, but they seem to be getting sillier and sillier. Barker and Llewelyn seemed to stumble around throughout the book accomplishing nothing much, and what the actual mystery was eluded me completely. And as for that idiotic, irrational woman Rebecca, why on earth was she introduced? Definitely not as eager to read the next book in the series as I used to be with these.
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