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Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery #10
The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime
Bookshop owner Gemma Doyle heads to London for a wedding, but when a body is found in connection with a rare book, Gemma sets out to sleuth the slaying, in bestselling author Vicki Delany’s 10th Sherlock Holmes Bookshop mystery.
Gemma Doyle and her friends have packed their bags and headed to London for her sister Pippa’s wedding. Waiting for her in the hotel lobby is none other than Gemma’s ex-husband, Paul Erikson. Paul has a rare book he wants her to see–calling it “the real deal”–so Gemma agrees to meet him at their old shop, Trafalgar Fine Books, the following day. But when Gemma arrives, accompanied by Grant, a rare book dealer, they find Paul dead in his office.
Paul had been down on his luck, but Gemma never expected this. Had he borrowed money from people he shouldn’t have? And where is the valuable book he was so anxious for Gemma to see? It’s nowhere to be found in the shop. Because of their previous relationship, Gemma feels she owes something to Paul and vows to find his killer.
As Gemma and her best friend Jayne Wilson follow Paul’s trail of friends, enemies, clients, and ex-lovers through London to Yorkshire, she realizes the puzzle of Paul’s last days is more twisted than she originally thought.
This mystery is anything but elementary, and Gemma and Jayne have to use all their wit to get to the bottom of it before their time in London–or in life–is over.
Gemma Doyle and her friends have packed their bags and headed to London for her sister Pippa’s wedding. Waiting for her in the hotel lobby is none other than Gemma’s ex-husband, Paul Erikson. Paul has a rare book he wants her to see–calling it “the real deal”–so Gemma agrees to meet him at their old shop, Trafalgar Fine Books, the following day. But when Gemma arrives, accompanied by Grant, a rare book dealer, they find Paul dead in his office.
Paul had been down on his luck, but Gemma never expected this. Had he borrowed money from people he shouldn’t have? And where is the valuable book he was so anxious for Gemma to see? It’s nowhere to be found in the shop. Because of their previous relationship, Gemma feels she owes something to Paul and vows to find his killer.
As Gemma and her best friend Jayne Wilson follow Paul’s trail of friends, enemies, clients, and ex-lovers through London to Yorkshire, she realizes the puzzle of Paul’s last days is more twisted than she originally thought.
This mystery is anything but elementary, and Gemma and Jayne have to use all their wit to get to the bottom of it before their time in London–or in life–is over.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2025
94 people are currently reading
891 people want to read
About the author
Vicki Delany
62 books1,915 followers“It’s a crime not to read Delany,” so says the London Free Press.
Vicki Delany is one of Canada’s most varied and prolific crime writers.
She is the author of four cozy mystery series: The Tea by the Sea series from Kensington Books, the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series from Crooked Lane and the Year Round Christmas series from Penguin. Under the pen name of Eva Gates she writes the Lighthouse Library Series.
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com , www.facebook.com/evagatesauthor, and twitter: @vickidelany
Vicki is part of Mystery Lovers Kitchen (http://www.mysteryloverskitchen.com) and Killer Characters (http://www.killercharacters.com)
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com
Vicki Delany is one of Canada’s most varied and prolific crime writers.
She is the author of four cozy mystery series: The Tea by the Sea series from Kensington Books, the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series from Crooked Lane and the Year Round Christmas series from Penguin. Under the pen name of Eva Gates she writes the Lighthouse Library Series.
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com , www.facebook.com/evagatesauthor, and twitter: @vickidelany
Vicki is part of Mystery Lovers Kitchen (http://www.mysteryloverskitchen.com) and Killer Characters (http://www.killercharacters.com)
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
July 9, 2024
Gemma and Jayne go to England for Gemma's sister's wedding to Grant. Ryan and Andy come along for the ride, along with Donald and a few other extended characters we've come to adore. But when Gemma's ex-husband pops up (surprise, did we even know she had one?), things take a deadly turn. They once owned a bookshop together, and he notes a rare book (possibly) but its just a ruse to a larger scheme he had going. Who wanted him dead? While I enjoyed the story, and all the characters are well written, Ryan was super washed out in this one... he was pushed off to the side (a detective in the US) so Gemma could investigate and he seemingly was fine with it. I kinda felt that was too strange... would rather have seen him help instead of Grant who was newly married to Pippa. Other than that, it was a fun ride, and I am intrigued to see where things go next.
January 6, 2025
The tenth book in this series. I have read #1,6,7,8 and 9!
In The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime we find Gemma in London for her sister's wedding. She is accompanied by Jayne, Ryan and Donald who are all finding London amazing. Donald is in his element because Sherlock Holmes memorabilia is everywhere. Gemma is surprised to be approached by her ex husband, Paul, and even more surprised when he is found murdered the next day. Of course Gemma involves herself and all her friends in trying to solve the mystery.
I was especially pleased to see the return of Pippa, Gemma's sister who holds a high powered and mysterious position in the Government. Little links like this one with Mycroft in the Sherlock Holmes books are frequent in this series. Pippa is a great character who could probably support a series of her own.
I thought this was a very entertaining read with lots of red herrings, great characters and very effective descriptions of the setting.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
In The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime we find Gemma in London for her sister's wedding. She is accompanied by Jayne, Ryan and Donald who are all finding London amazing. Donald is in his element because Sherlock Holmes memorabilia is everywhere. Gemma is surprised to be approached by her ex husband, Paul, and even more surprised when he is found murdered the next day. Of course Gemma involves herself and all her friends in trying to solve the mystery.
I was especially pleased to see the return of Pippa, Gemma's sister who holds a high powered and mysterious position in the Government. Little links like this one with Mycroft in the Sherlock Holmes books are frequent in this series. Pippa is a great character who could probably support a series of her own.
I thought this was a very entertaining read with lots of red herrings, great characters and very effective descriptions of the setting.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 17, 2025
I have read other books in the series that I have liked. This one was boring , long and had no good mystery and a horrible ending.
March 22, 2025
I cannot believe that I have just completed the tenth book in this series. I wondered after the ninth book, where it seemed that Delany had reverted to writing Gemma Doyle as an unbearable know-it-all. This time out, she does notice more than other people, but she isn't so obnoxious about it. I much prefer non-obnoxious Gemma.
Once again, Gemma and her posse are in London, this time for her sister Pippa's wedding. Gemma's luggage doesn't join her and she must shop before the event while everyone else gets their beauty sleep. As a result, Gemma leaves the reception early and runs into her ex-husband who appears to be waiting for her to appear. She eventually agrees to meet him the following day to discuss a book, but when she shows up at his bookshop, he is found dead in his office.
Of course Gemma is unable to simply let things be. She wants to know why Paul was killed, especially since he was obviously down on his luck. Things escalate (as usual) and once again we get to observe the sibling rivalry between Gemma and Pippa. There is also a very satisfying bar room brawl. I was completely diverted by those pleasures, and failed to figure things out. Not that I mind. It far better than being bored.
Once again, Gemma and her posse are in London, this time for her sister Pippa's wedding. Gemma's luggage doesn't join her and she must shop before the event while everyone else gets their beauty sleep. As a result, Gemma leaves the reception early and runs into her ex-husband who appears to be waiting for her to appear. She eventually agrees to meet him the following day to discuss a book, but when she shows up at his bookshop, he is found dead in his office.
Of course Gemma is unable to simply let things be. She wants to know why Paul was killed, especially since he was obviously down on his luck. Things escalate (as usual) and once again we get to observe the sibling rivalry between Gemma and Pippa. There is also a very satisfying bar room brawl. I was completely diverted by those pleasures, and failed to figure things out. Not that I mind. It far better than being bored.
February 20, 2025
3 1/2 Stars
September 1, 2024
4.5 stars and TL;DR this is my favorite book in the series!
Gemma and the West London crew are visiting London for her sister and her friend's wedding. While exiting the hotel where the wedding is taking place, Gemma's ex-husband is waiting for her to ask her to come and look at a book that is "the real deal" according to him. Gemma along with some of the crew goes to see him the next morning where he is found murdered in his office. Gemma must put together the clues to figure out who killed him before returning home to West London.
This book was so good! I really enjoy the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries but I thought this was a step above the rest. The story moves fast, the characters were compelling, and the mystery was challenging. I liked that we got to go to London again and it wasn't this massive scene at the end. I was also happy to see some characters coming back like Pippa who I absolutely adore. I was also excited to meet some of the new characters that I hope make their way back into the books like Genevieve. I had a lot of fun reading this book. I don't think it is necessary to read every other book but the characters would be familiar if you have. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries and amateur sleuths.
Thank you to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Vicki Delaney for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Gemma and the West London crew are visiting London for her sister and her friend's wedding. While exiting the hotel where the wedding is taking place, Gemma's ex-husband is waiting for her to ask her to come and look at a book that is "the real deal" according to him. Gemma along with some of the crew goes to see him the next morning where he is found murdered in his office. Gemma must put together the clues to figure out who killed him before returning home to West London.
This book was so good! I really enjoy the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries but I thought this was a step above the rest. The story moves fast, the characters were compelling, and the mystery was challenging. I liked that we got to go to London again and it wasn't this massive scene at the end. I was also happy to see some characters coming back like Pippa who I absolutely adore. I was also excited to meet some of the new characters that I hope make their way back into the books like Genevieve. I had a lot of fun reading this book. I don't think it is necessary to read every other book but the characters would be familiar if you have. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries and amateur sleuths.
Thank you to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Vicki Delaney for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 3, 2025
Once again Gemma is at the center of a mystery and is bringing her friends and family along to help solve it! Gemma and crew are on the road, well plane actually, to visit London for her sister's wedding, but of course there must be a body for her to stumble across! Another well-crafted mystery with lots of Sherlockisms woven throughout to delight mystery lovers of all sorts! I do highly recommend that you read the books in order to better connect with and get to know the characters, their personalities, their quirks and interpersonal relationships. This will strengthen your connection to the readers as Gemma is a bit different in how she interacts with the characters, so it takes a book or two to better understand her. However, by the time you reach this book, you will also be enthralled with how the mysteries are untangled and the unique personality quirks that the characters possess that help them to see the clues and snag the guilty party! I have to say this has quickly become a favorite series of mine and I look forward to more to come!!!
July 2, 2024
Thanks to netgalley for providing me with this ARC.
What a little gem! I have to admit, the title and Sherlock Holmes reference pulled me to select this book, and it held my attention all the way through.
I haven't read any other books in this series but I didn't feel this hampered my enjoyment as the author did such a good job of describing the setting, characters and past events in the rest of the series.
Gemma and her family members hunt for her ex husbands killer whilst on vacation whilst in London for her sisters wedding.
Plot wise, I wasn't shocked with the ending or surprised at the reveal of the killer, which left me with a bit of an anticlimatic feeling, to be honest.
What a little gem! I have to admit, the title and Sherlock Holmes reference pulled me to select this book, and it held my attention all the way through.
I haven't read any other books in this series but I didn't feel this hampered my enjoyment as the author did such a good job of describing the setting, characters and past events in the rest of the series.
Gemma and her family members hunt for her ex husbands killer whilst on vacation whilst in London for her sisters wedding.
Plot wise, I wasn't shocked with the ending or surprised at the reveal of the killer, which left me with a bit of an anticlimatic feeling, to be honest.
February 23, 2025
3.75 stars rounded up
Gemma's sister Pippa is getting married in London and the gang + ones are all invited. Leaving the bookstore and pets with Uncle Arthur and help, Gemma sets off for a wonderful vacation. The trip doesn't get off to a great start with her luggage failing to appear and needing to go shopping instead of napping before the wedding. Gemma notes it's odd for Pippa to stop working for a day but also notes some people who must be high-ups in whatever hush-hush department Pippa works for. There's also some assorted relatives she hasn't seen since her christening which is weird but hey, it's a wedding. Leaving early to go get some sleep, Gemma encounters none other than her ex-husband, Paul Eriksen. He claims he has something to show her he thinks is the real deal. Gemma doesn't deal in rare books and isn't an expert but Paul insists. She agrees to meet him the next day at noon at his shop and arranges for Grant and Donald to come with her - just in case. They arrive to discover the shop is well past its prime and the two shop clerks don't even know if Paul is in. At first it looks like Paul is sleeping off a bender in his office but when they look more closely, Donald and Gemma discover Paul has been murdered! Luckily for Gemma, DS Patel is now a DI and on the case. Gemma is also experienced with dealing with the police by now and knows what to say. She's certain the police can solve this one without her but.... she'd like to speak with Paul's latest ex-wife, his mother and sister and then that leads to more information the police don't have. Then it seems as if Pippa's latest work drama intersects with Gemma's case and Pippa forbids Gemma from getting involved but a little friendly visit to distant relatives can't hurt now can it? With Ryan away and Jayne wanting to sightsee, try tea rooms and be romantic with Ryan, Gemma has to squeeze her investigation in around everyone else. Will she figure it out before a crazed murderer comes after her?
I read 2/3 of this book last night before going to sleep and my brain kept trying to solve the mystery in my sleep! I woke up uncomfortable and couldn't get back to sleep this morning so I finished the book. The mystery was too complicated. The murderer wasn't who I expected based on the clues. I figured it out after Gemma but before the reveal. The story was unnecessarily convoluted to create red herrings. It turned out to be a bit disappointing. I also noted a couple of errors a good editor should have caught. While she made deliberate errors about London geography, I really don't think she meant to have Donald ask about Platform 11 3/4, especially if he was standing right there in front of the sign. Gemma, who supposedly remembers everything, doesn't even correct him. I think literally everyone knows Platform 9 3/4 except for Donald. Another error was just minor when Gemma mentions going to see Grant's mother when she means Paul's. On the plus side, Simon from Tea & Treachery has a very minor cameo! Aww Simon!
I like the relationship development between Gemma and Ryan and Gemma and her family. She's more open to communicating with them and respecting Ryan's feelings. Pippa has softened a bit now she's with Grant. She also sees the value in her little sister's unusual way of thinking and how it can benefit Pippa's job to have Gemma know what's going on so she doesn't try to get involved. Gemma has come a long way. She thinks before she says something others would consider odd and doesn't try to butt into the investigation just to solve it. She feels bad Paul died. She didn't want him back but they shared a past and there were good times. She was friendly with his mum and so Gemma wants to see justice done. What I didn't like about Gemma is how she has not told Ryan about Paul yet! Ryan is so patient and understanding. He doesn't like Gemma to get involved. He worries but he knows she needs to see justice done and she promises to share all her information with the police. It's getting serious with them. Ryan and Jayne's fiancé, Andy, go on a fishing trip with Gemma's dad. While Andy is excited, Ryan is going mainly to bond with Henry Doyle.
Jayne is still Gemma's ride or die but she puts her foot down when she doesn't want to do something. Jayne is so lovely that doors literally open for her and people give her whatever she wants. She is a loyal and true friend who will fight to the death for Gemma. Jayne and Andy are basking in engagement bliss but jet lag is kicking his butt so they don't get to see a lot of each other. He's clueless about everything Jayne and Gemma have been up to! As always Donald provides the comic relief. His Sherlock obsession is funny. I can't decide if he's annoying or I really like him. I kind of do the same thing with Georgette Heyer's world and Jane Austen's world. That's why I loved Bath because it fully meets every expectation one could have of a Georgian city, whereas London is big and modernized. I'm happy he made new friends to discuss Sherlock with because he keeps annoying his old friends and their families! Grant is a patient, loving husband. He and Pippa have to wait until she has time to go on a honeymoon so he's free to accompany Gemma. He seems to be more in the loop than Gemma expects.
Gemma's ex has gone to seed. He was a lazy, whiny, moocher who couldn't hold on to a job, an apartment or a woman. Gemma feels bad for him but I don't. He whined a lot about Gemma to others. To Sophie she was a b*** who dumped him but later he held her up on a pedestal as a paragon of perfection he never should have let go. Sophie was a mean girl but she doesn't seem so bad now. Her relationship with Paul didn't work out and she didn't get what she wanted out of him. He kept on talking up the next get rich quick scheme but nothing came of it. Until now anyway. He has SOMETHING that got him killed. Who were the unsavory characters who came in looking for him? Were they sent to rough him up because he owed money? Or is there something else going on? Shop clerk Faye, an older woman, is AWFUL! She thinks the sun rises and sets on her son but her daughter is a spinster who will be left on the shelf if she doesn't marry someone ASAP. Faye thinks all women should be married and have children. That was HER main purpose in life - her children - and doesn't understand women have choices and HER choice may not be right for Tamara, her co-worker. Tamara is a Ph.D student in English lit. struggling to get by and finish her degree. To her, the shop was just a job and she's happy to answer questions but doesn't know anything. Tamara becomes involved in the sleuthing but Faye just likes to talk about her son.
Paul's ex, Sophie, is a suspect but I don't think she killed him. They broke up awhile ago and he had moved on. Mimi, his latest ex girlfriend, is tough talking but she seems to have eventually seen past Paul's charm and moved on too. He was a freeloader and neither of these women wanted anything to do with him. Did one of them kill him for the whatever it was that was going to make him a lot of money? Maybe she felt he owed her the money.
Gemma's main suspects are related to her. Her mother's third cousin once removed? maybe? Lord Ramshaw is a retired foreign office worker who lives at Garfield Hall in Yorkshire with his wife and son. Alastair is friendly and open with Gemma and her friends. He and Genevieve are welcoming and honest about their cash flow problem. Alastair isn't so honest with his wife though. He doesn't tell her why Paul had his contact info but reveals all to Gemma. Something tells Gemma he isn't being quite honest with her either. His excuse is flimsy at best. Or so she thinks. I believe him. I also believe Genevieve would do anything to protect the ancestral home. Would that include murder? I also think daughter Zoe is cut from the same cloth as her mother. She cares for the estate and is better at understanding and figuring out the problems involved in being the caretakers of an albatross. Her brother Lawrence, however, is a party boy, a playboy and uninterested in business or running the estate. His parents keep trying though. Gemma doesn't trust him and is suspicious.
DI Patel is annoyed by Gemma but is aware that Gemma's insights have solved a case or two. Gemma is fair and reports everything she learned to the police. Sir John St. John is a valuable ally. I think he has a good time fooling people into thinking he's a rough customer and he enjoys being hands-on when there's something that needs doing or Gemma needs rescuing. I'd like to know more about him. He's an intriguing character. The drama at home is hilarious and if I were Gemma, I'd think twice about leaving the shop with Uncle Arthur again. I missed Ashleigh and her crazy outfits. If Gemma travels again I hope she brings Ashleigh!
This series is good, light escapism. I look forward to more in the future, I hope!
Gemma's sister Pippa is getting married in London and the gang + ones are all invited. Leaving the bookstore and pets with Uncle Arthur and help, Gemma sets off for a wonderful vacation. The trip doesn't get off to a great start with her luggage failing to appear and needing to go shopping instead of napping before the wedding. Gemma notes it's odd for Pippa to stop working for a day but also notes some people who must be high-ups in whatever hush-hush department Pippa works for. There's also some assorted relatives she hasn't seen since her christening which is weird but hey, it's a wedding. Leaving early to go get some sleep, Gemma encounters none other than her ex-husband, Paul Eriksen. He claims he has something to show her he thinks is the real deal. Gemma doesn't deal in rare books and isn't an expert but Paul insists. She agrees to meet him the next day at noon at his shop and arranges for Grant and Donald to come with her - just in case. They arrive to discover the shop is well past its prime and the two shop clerks don't even know if Paul is in. At first it looks like Paul is sleeping off a bender in his office but when they look more closely, Donald and Gemma discover Paul has been murdered! Luckily for Gemma, DS Patel is now a DI and on the case. Gemma is also experienced with dealing with the police by now and knows what to say. She's certain the police can solve this one without her but.... she'd like to speak with Paul's latest ex-wife, his mother and sister and then that leads to more information the police don't have. Then it seems as if Pippa's latest work drama intersects with Gemma's case and Pippa forbids Gemma from getting involved but a little friendly visit to distant relatives can't hurt now can it? With Ryan away and Jayne wanting to sightsee, try tea rooms and be romantic with Ryan, Gemma has to squeeze her investigation in around everyone else. Will she figure it out before a crazed murderer comes after her?
I read 2/3 of this book last night before going to sleep and my brain kept trying to solve the mystery in my sleep! I woke up uncomfortable and couldn't get back to sleep this morning so I finished the book. The mystery was too complicated. The murderer wasn't who I expected based on the clues. I figured it out after Gemma but before the reveal. The story was unnecessarily convoluted to create red herrings. It turned out to be a bit disappointing. I also noted a couple of errors a good editor should have caught. While she made deliberate errors about London geography, I really don't think she meant to have Donald ask about Platform 11 3/4, especially if he was standing right there in front of the sign. Gemma, who supposedly remembers everything, doesn't even correct him. I think literally everyone knows Platform 9 3/4 except for Donald. Another error was just minor when Gemma mentions going to see Grant's mother when she means Paul's. On the plus side, Simon from Tea & Treachery has a very minor cameo! Aww Simon!
I like the relationship development between Gemma and Ryan and Gemma and her family. She's more open to communicating with them and respecting Ryan's feelings. Pippa has softened a bit now she's with Grant. She also sees the value in her little sister's unusual way of thinking and how it can benefit Pippa's job to have Gemma know what's going on so she doesn't try to get involved. Gemma has come a long way. She thinks before she says something others would consider odd and doesn't try to butt into the investigation just to solve it. She feels bad Paul died. She didn't want him back but they shared a past and there were good times. She was friendly with his mum and so Gemma wants to see justice done. What I didn't like about Gemma is how she has not told Ryan about Paul yet! Ryan is so patient and understanding. He doesn't like Gemma to get involved. He worries but he knows she needs to see justice done and she promises to share all her information with the police. It's getting serious with them. Ryan and Jayne's fiancé, Andy, go on a fishing trip with Gemma's dad. While Andy is excited, Ryan is going mainly to bond with Henry Doyle.
Jayne is still Gemma's ride or die but she puts her foot down when she doesn't want to do something. Jayne is so lovely that doors literally open for her and people give her whatever she wants. She is a loyal and true friend who will fight to the death for Gemma. Jayne and Andy are basking in engagement bliss but jet lag is kicking his butt so they don't get to see a lot of each other. He's clueless about everything Jayne and Gemma have been up to! As always Donald provides the comic relief. His Sherlock obsession is funny. I can't decide if he's annoying or I really like him. I kind of do the same thing with Georgette Heyer's world and Jane Austen's world. That's why I loved Bath because it fully meets every expectation one could have of a Georgian city, whereas London is big and modernized. I'm happy he made new friends to discuss Sherlock with because he keeps annoying his old friends and their families! Grant is a patient, loving husband. He and Pippa have to wait until she has time to go on a honeymoon so he's free to accompany Gemma. He seems to be more in the loop than Gemma expects.
Gemma's ex has gone to seed. He was a lazy, whiny, moocher who couldn't hold on to a job, an apartment or a woman. Gemma feels bad for him but I don't. He whined a lot about Gemma to others. To Sophie she was a b*** who dumped him but later he held her up on a pedestal as a paragon of perfection he never should have let go. Sophie was a mean girl but she doesn't seem so bad now. Her relationship with Paul didn't work out and she didn't get what she wanted out of him. He kept on talking up the next get rich quick scheme but nothing came of it. Until now anyway. He has SOMETHING that got him killed. Who were the unsavory characters who came in looking for him? Were they sent to rough him up because he owed money? Or is there something else going on? Shop clerk Faye, an older woman, is AWFUL! She thinks the sun rises and sets on her son but her daughter is a spinster who will be left on the shelf if she doesn't marry someone ASAP. Faye thinks all women should be married and have children. That was HER main purpose in life - her children - and doesn't understand women have choices and HER choice may not be right for Tamara, her co-worker. Tamara is a Ph.D student in English lit. struggling to get by and finish her degree. To her, the shop was just a job and she's happy to answer questions but doesn't know anything. Tamara becomes involved in the sleuthing but Faye just likes to talk about her son.
Paul's ex, Sophie, is a suspect but I don't think she killed him. They broke up awhile ago and he had moved on. Mimi, his latest ex girlfriend, is tough talking but she seems to have eventually seen past Paul's charm and moved on too. He was a freeloader and neither of these women wanted anything to do with him. Did one of them kill him for the whatever it was that was going to make him a lot of money? Maybe she felt he owed her the money.
Gemma's main suspects are related to her. Her mother's third cousin once removed? maybe? Lord Ramshaw is a retired foreign office worker who lives at Garfield Hall in Yorkshire with his wife and son. Alastair is friendly and open with Gemma and her friends. He and Genevieve are welcoming and honest about their cash flow problem. Alastair isn't so honest with his wife though. He doesn't tell her why Paul had his contact info but reveals all to Gemma. Something tells Gemma he isn't being quite honest with her either. His excuse is flimsy at best. Or so she thinks. I believe him. I also believe Genevieve would do anything to protect the ancestral home. Would that include murder? I also think daughter Zoe is cut from the same cloth as her mother. She cares for the estate and is better at understanding and figuring out the problems involved in being the caretakers of an albatross. Her brother Lawrence, however, is a party boy, a playboy and uninterested in business or running the estate. His parents keep trying though. Gemma doesn't trust him and is suspicious.
DI Patel is annoyed by Gemma but is aware that Gemma's insights have solved a case or two. Gemma is fair and reports everything she learned to the police. Sir John St. John is a valuable ally. I think he has a good time fooling people into thinking he's a rough customer and he enjoys being hands-on when there's something that needs doing or Gemma needs rescuing. I'd like to know more about him. He's an intriguing character. The drama at home is hilarious and if I were Gemma, I'd think twice about leaving the shop with Uncle Arthur again. I missed Ashleigh and her crazy outfits. If Gemma travels again I hope she brings Ashleigh!
This series is good, light escapism. I look forward to more in the future, I hope!
June 16, 2024
I really enjoy the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries, but this is not one of Vicki Delany's best. The plot seemed to have a hard time connecting and seemed to drag on into nothingness until the last 50 pages or so. The killer, when revealed, seems to have very little motivation for the actual killing and the solving of the crime relies on tenuous connections. All in all, I prefer the books in the series set in Gemma's hometown of West London much more than those set in her original home of London, but I will still plan to add this to my collection.
On a positive note, the group of Gemma's West London friends were at their best and most hilarious, and I really enjoyed reading about their loyalty and love for one another. Overall, I enjoyed being back in Gemma's crime-solving world, but hope to see the next book back in West London where Gemma is more in her element.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this copy!
On a positive note, the group of Gemma's West London friends were at their best and most hilarious, and I really enjoyed reading about their loyalty and love for one another. Overall, I enjoyed being back in Gemma's crime-solving world, but hope to see the next book back in West London where Gemma is more in her element.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this copy!
January 11, 2025
Gemma Doyle is in London for her sister's wedding. When Gemma find someone from her past dead. His death is believed to be linked to a rare missing book. Because this person was someone from her past she feels she has to find out who killed him and why.
I really enjoy this book. Each book can be enjoyed as a standalone. If you are a fan of Sherlock Holmes you will enjoy this book, Gemma has a lot of similarities to Sherlock. I really enjoyed this book and Gemma being back in London and with her family and Grant her new brother-in-law. The mystery is well-plotted with plenty of twists and turns. This was a quick read for me, and is one of my favorite in the series.
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoy this book. Each book can be enjoyed as a standalone. If you are a fan of Sherlock Holmes you will enjoy this book, Gemma has a lot of similarities to Sherlock. I really enjoyed this book and Gemma being back in London and with her family and Grant her new brother-in-law. The mystery is well-plotted with plenty of twists and turns. This was a quick read for me, and is one of my favorite in the series.
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 28, 2025
I really enjoy this series, but I think the ones in West London more than the "real" London. This one had a lot of fun elements, and I really did like it a lot, but I thought the "whodunnit" part was a bit on the nose. I figured it out right away (not the why but the who) and maybe because of that, much of the rest of the actual murder solving felt more like running around looking at useless clues.
IT WASN'T... it just felt like it.
If we hadn't done that running around, we wouldn't have understood the why.
AND...
Even more interesting, we got to learn more and more about Gemma's family etc All in all, it was a really good book--just not the best of the series.
IT WASN'T... it just felt like it.
If we hadn't done that running around, we wouldn't have understood the why.
AND...
Even more interesting, we got to learn more and more about Gemma's family etc All in all, it was a really good book--just not the best of the series.
January 2, 2025
Gemma Doyle is back in London! Her sister, Pippa, is getting married and Gemma is looking forward to a relaxing vacation - yeah right. Does that sound like the Gemma Doyle we know and love? Of course not!
The night of her sister's wedding, Gemma sees her ex-husband in the hotel where the reception is taking place. She is shocked, to say the least, but he insists he has something to show her. Resistant, at first, she finally agrees, only to find that he's been murdered!
Gemma is on the case with her friends to solve the crime before they head back to West London, where Uncle Arthur is "minding the store", but really throwing things into chaos.
Lots of London imagery, as one would expect, and Vicki Delany writes with such description, you can imagine all the places mentioned. A quick read, but a fun one - a great book to start out 2025 with!
4 stars.
*Mentioned Kings Cross Station and Platform 9 3/4, but the book says 12 3/4; not sure if this was on purpose for copyright reasons, but something to note if you're familiar with Harry Potter*
I received an arc on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The night of her sister's wedding, Gemma sees her ex-husband in the hotel where the reception is taking place. She is shocked, to say the least, but he insists he has something to show her. Resistant, at first, she finally agrees, only to find that he's been murdered!
Gemma is on the case with her friends to solve the crime before they head back to West London, where Uncle Arthur is "minding the store", but really throwing things into chaos.
Lots of London imagery, as one would expect, and Vicki Delany writes with such description, you can imagine all the places mentioned. A quick read, but a fun one - a great book to start out 2025 with!
4 stars.
*Mentioned Kings Cross Station and Platform 9 3/4, but the book says 12 3/4; not sure if this was on purpose for copyright reasons, but something to note if you're familiar with Harry Potter*
I received an arc on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2024
It is fun to visit with our friends from West London, Massachusetts, even if they are not home for this adventure. Gemma has dragged Ryan, Jayne, Andy, and our resident Sherlock "expert" Donald to London for her sister Pippa's wedding. Everything is proceeding well, with a lovely service, a high-end reception, and visits with friends and family. Gemma, who lost her luggage and has to shop when they got there, is jet lagged and leaves a little early only to be stopped on the way out by her ex-husband who she has not seen in seven years. Jet lagged, and not wanting to deal with him in that condition, Gemma agreed to meet him the next day at the bookstore they once owned together. Unfortunately, when she arrives, she finds him dead, murdered. This leads our Merry Band all over London, to aristocratic mansions on the outskirts of the city, and to fancy nightclubs. They interact with British police, secret government agencies, and the US Secret Service. Our story may be a little farfetched, but it absolutely makes for an interesting romp! Come along if you dare! Thanks to #Netgally, #CrookedLaneBooks, and the author for a chance to read. #TheIncidentoftheBookintheNighttime #VickiDelany #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
December 18, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an eArc.
Gemma Doyle heads to London for her sister’s wedding, but her plans take a dark turn when her ex-husband, Paul Erikson, is found dead in his office. Paul had promised to show her a valuable rare book, now missing, and Gemma feels compelled to investigate his mysterious death. Teaming up with her best friend, Jayne Wilson, Gemma follows a tangled trail of Paul’s associates across London and Yorkshire. As secrets unravel, the case grows more complex, and danger looms. Can Gemma and Jayne solve the puzzle before time runs out?
This is the tenth book in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series, even though I haven’t read any previous instalments in this series. It was easy to pick up the gist of character relationships making it easily understandable as if it was a standalone.
I found this to be an okay mystery, not much suspense or thrill to finding out who the killer was or the motivations behind the murder. Also, for me, the pacing of it was off. I thought some parts were too long and then the ending everything was wrapped up too quickly with so many moving parts. And I was left a little deflated when they just let the murderer get away, very disappointed.
Gemma Doyle heads to London for her sister’s wedding, but her plans take a dark turn when her ex-husband, Paul Erikson, is found dead in his office. Paul had promised to show her a valuable rare book, now missing, and Gemma feels compelled to investigate his mysterious death. Teaming up with her best friend, Jayne Wilson, Gemma follows a tangled trail of Paul’s associates across London and Yorkshire. As secrets unravel, the case grows more complex, and danger looms. Can Gemma and Jayne solve the puzzle before time runs out?
This is the tenth book in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series, even though I haven’t read any previous instalments in this series. It was easy to pick up the gist of character relationships making it easily understandable as if it was a standalone.
I found this to be an okay mystery, not much suspense or thrill to finding out who the killer was or the motivations behind the murder. Also, for me, the pacing of it was off. I thought some parts were too long and then the ending everything was wrapped up too quickly with so many moving parts. And I was left a little deflated when they just let the murderer get away, very disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2025
"The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime (Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries #10 by Vicki Delany has Gemma and gang back in London. Gemma's sister, Pippa, and Gemma's friend, Grant, are getting married. Maybe they can have a normal visit. Nope, Gemma's ex-husband has to go and die after requesting Gemma visit him at their old bookstore. Gemma just has to investigate.
This one was similar in some ways to the last one that was set in London. Mostly in the way that the ones set back in the US are similar. They involve similar people and similar steps that Gemma goes through to solve the mystery. This time I felt I made a crucial clue connection way ahead of Gemma.
This one was similar in some ways to the last one that was set in London. Mostly in the way that the ones set back in the US are similar. They involve similar people and similar steps that Gemma goes through to solve the mystery. This time I felt I made a crucial clue connection way ahead of Gemma.
February 10, 2025
This book mostly made me want to roll my eyes. No likeable character in it.
January 25, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Gemma Doyle’s sister Pippa is getting married and she and her friends arrive in London for the wedding. After the ceremony, Gemma runs into Paul Erickson, her ex-husband and former partner of Trafalgar Fine Books. He tells her he has a book she needs to see. He says “It might be a real deal”. She tries to put him off but agrees to meet him at their old store the next day. She refuses to meet him alone so her new brother-in-law Grant who happens to be a rare book dealer, and huge Sherlock Holmes fan Donald tag along with her. They arrive at the rundown shop to find Paul has been killed.
Everyone wants Gemma to leave the case to the Metropolitan Police but she jumps right in feeling it is something she must do for Paul. So while her dad, her boyfriend Ryan, and Jayne’s fiance Andy take off on a fishing trip, Gemma and Jayne work to piece together what they can of Paul’s recent life. The game is truly afoot as clues begin to fall into place and what they have been looking there is found but they may need a little help to close the case.
Gemma is her true self wanting to enjoy her time with her family and friends but feels the tug of a good murder mystery. Jayne feels compelled to play Watson to her Sherlock. I was surprised that Ryan left her to go fishing because he knows her and knew she was not going to sit idly by. Same with her father. What I found especially intriguing was that we learned more about Pippa’s mysterious high-power job. She barely had time to get married handling one crisis after another. She even told Gemma to leave Paul’s death alone. Ten books in and these characters continue to surprise me.
While everyone is in London Uncle Arthur is holding down the fort at home and not doing a very good job. He does have Ashleigh at the store to attempt to curb anything major happening there but even she cannot control everything. Mrs. Ramsbatten can only do so much at home. A skunk smell, a quick fix gone wrong, a power outage – Gemma may have her hands full when she gets home.
Ms. Delany has penned a complicated mystery that tested this reader. The plotlines were intricately twisted together. My suspect list was always in fluid motion. When I thought I cleared one I put them back a few pages later. She really challenged my armchair detective skills. I was surprised by everywhere Gemma and her friends traveled and the entities they interacted with, especially their little foray at a nightclub where they interacted closely with people. I may have been laughing out loud.
The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime has a lot of moving parts and twisty plotlines. I had a great time touring around London with Gemma and her cohorts. I am looking forward to doing it again next year.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Gemma Doyle’s sister Pippa is getting married and she and her friends arrive in London for the wedding. After the ceremony, Gemma runs into Paul Erickson, her ex-husband and former partner of Trafalgar Fine Books. He tells her he has a book she needs to see. He says “It might be a real deal”. She tries to put him off but agrees to meet him at their old store the next day. She refuses to meet him alone so her new brother-in-law Grant who happens to be a rare book dealer, and huge Sherlock Holmes fan Donald tag along with her. They arrive at the rundown shop to find Paul has been killed.
Everyone wants Gemma to leave the case to the Metropolitan Police but she jumps right in feeling it is something she must do for Paul. So while her dad, her boyfriend Ryan, and Jayne’s fiance Andy take off on a fishing trip, Gemma and Jayne work to piece together what they can of Paul’s recent life. The game is truly afoot as clues begin to fall into place and what they have been looking there is found but they may need a little help to close the case.
Gemma is her true self wanting to enjoy her time with her family and friends but feels the tug of a good murder mystery. Jayne feels compelled to play Watson to her Sherlock. I was surprised that Ryan left her to go fishing because he knows her and knew she was not going to sit idly by. Same with her father. What I found especially intriguing was that we learned more about Pippa’s mysterious high-power job. She barely had time to get married handling one crisis after another. She even told Gemma to leave Paul’s death alone. Ten books in and these characters continue to surprise me.
While everyone is in London Uncle Arthur is holding down the fort at home and not doing a very good job. He does have Ashleigh at the store to attempt to curb anything major happening there but even she cannot control everything. Mrs. Ramsbatten can only do so much at home. A skunk smell, a quick fix gone wrong, a power outage – Gemma may have her hands full when she gets home.
Ms. Delany has penned a complicated mystery that tested this reader. The plotlines were intricately twisted together. My suspect list was always in fluid motion. When I thought I cleared one I put them back a few pages later. She really challenged my armchair detective skills. I was surprised by everywhere Gemma and her friends traveled and the entities they interacted with, especially their little foray at a nightclub where they interacted closely with people. I may have been laughing out loud.
The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime has a lot of moving parts and twisty plotlines. I had a great time touring around London with Gemma and her cohorts. I am looking forward to doing it again next year.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
February 1, 2025
What a fun romp through London with all of our favorites!!
* Pippa and Grant's wedding!!
* More about Gemma's past that brings about unexpected conversations and consequences.
* SO. MUCH. TEA. ;-)
* The writing in this was, for me, the best its been in some time and that made the overall story even more enjoyable. This book is a perfect example of why I have loved [most] of this series from book 1!!
* That was one excellent, twisty, topsy-turvy mystery that kept me guessing until the end [even though I had wondered about one thing but then brushed it off *eyeroll* because I am apparently a doofus!].
* I am still struggling with the narration for these books. Her British "voice" is superb, but her American "voice" [especially the men] leaves a lot to be desired. Being set in England, there was less American "voices" than normal, so it wasn't as difficult for me as usual, but there was still a struggle anytime anyone who wasn't British t was speaking. It is just unpleasant and off-putting for me unfortunately.
* THAT ending. Ohhhhh boy!!
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read and I was left really looking forward to the next one!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Vicki Delany, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
* Pippa and Grant's wedding!!
* More about Gemma's past that brings about unexpected conversations and consequences.
* SO. MUCH. TEA. ;-)
* The writing in this was, for me, the best its been in some time and that made the overall story even more enjoyable. This book is a perfect example of why I have loved [most] of this series from book 1!!
* That was one excellent, twisty, topsy-turvy mystery that kept me guessing until the end [even though I had wondered about one thing but then brushed it off *eyeroll* because I am apparently a doofus!].
* I am still struggling with the narration for these books. Her British "voice" is superb, but her American "voice" [especially the men] leaves a lot to be desired. Being set in England, there was less American "voices" than normal, so it wasn't as difficult for me as usual, but there was still a struggle anytime anyone who wasn't British t was speaking. It is just unpleasant and off-putting for me unfortunately.
* THAT ending. Ohhhhh boy!!
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read and I was left really looking forward to the next one!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Vicki Delany, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2025
It is a credit to Vicki Delaney that she has reached ten books in the series… not many cozy series are so long lasting and still enjoyable ten books in. Vicki has a talent in keeping things fresh. This book finds us once again in London, this time for Gemma’s sister Pippa’s wedding. Gemma runs into her ex-husband on the way out, and then tragically finds him dead the next morning while visiting his bookstore.
This was a quite a case for Gemma, taking her and her American friends all over London, even a jaunt to the countryside. The side plot of the Australian ship was interesting albeit a little confusing (can’t get into that now, that would be a spoiler.)
I appreciate the way the author makes a big city like London feel cozy and the way the cast of characters has grown. Donald is still annoying as always, but at least now we can look at him and say “Oh, Donald” and affectionately shake our heads.
Looking forward to the next book!
This was a quite a case for Gemma, taking her and her American friends all over London, even a jaunt to the countryside. The side plot of the Australian ship was interesting albeit a little confusing (can’t get into that now, that would be a spoiler.)
I appreciate the way the author makes a big city like London feel cozy and the way the cast of characters has grown. Donald is still annoying as always, but at least now we can look at him and say “Oh, Donald” and affectionately shake our heads.
Looking forward to the next book!
January 17, 2025
This one was just a lot of fun!
July 29, 2025
The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime (The Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery #10) by Vicki Delany is the newest installment of a mystery series I've become very invested in. I really enjoy this series and its characters. This one has a different main setting than usual so it was cool that it switched it up. I can't believe it's been ten books - here's to the next, The Devil in the Details, which will be released on January 6th, 2026!
June 17, 2024
#TheIncidentoftheBookintheNighttime #NetGalley grabbed my attention from the beginning and kept me reading until that last page.
Gemma and her family are in London for her sister's wedding, and even a hop across the pond can't stop her from getting involved in a murder investigation.
There were so many twists and turns that kept me guessing and this book proved to be a winner from the beginning.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Gemma and her family are in London for her sister's wedding, and even a hop across the pond can't stop her from getting involved in a murder investigation.
There were so many twists and turns that kept me guessing and this book proved to be a winner from the beginning.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
February 28, 2025
Gemma Doyle and her friends are back in London for Pippa's wedding. When she is offered the chance to look at a rare book, she finds a dead body.
I gave this book in the series 3 stars because Gemma feels rather wooden, flat. The other characters were much better written, Pippa in particular.
I have now read these books a bit out of order. I still need to read books 8 and 9 to be up-to-date with the series.
I gave this book in the series 3 stars because Gemma feels rather wooden, flat. The other characters were much better written, Pippa in particular.
I have now read these books a bit out of order. I still need to read books 8 and 9 to be up-to-date with the series.
October 14, 2024
A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery # 10
A quick look:
Gemma Doyle is in London for her sister’s wedding waiting for her at the hotel is her ex-husband Paul Erikson, a rare book owner who asked her to meet him at his book store the next day, he has a rare book he wish her to see. When Gemma arrives at his store she found him dead in his office.....setting the stage for another saga....
My thoughts:
The author gives us enough contexts setting making it easy to get into it at this point but don’t get baited by the lovely title this story is a cozy classic mystery easy to figure out what’s happening before it happens. No mind-bending or dazzling mystery to figure out just the very observant Gemma, her best friend Jayne and sister Pippa following Paul’s trail of friends, enemies, clients and ex-lovers. To get to the bottom of this mystery the team of sleuths use all their wit before their time in London is over and while doing so they entertained us along the way. Their characterization is the run of the mill nothing special in my books.
I enjoyed this story but plot wise nothing to write home about: simple and easy to follow, nicely written for all to enjoy and being entertained but nothing more.
I received this ARC from the publisher Crooked Lane Books via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.
A quick look:
Gemma Doyle is in London for her sister’s wedding waiting for her at the hotel is her ex-husband Paul Erikson, a rare book owner who asked her to meet him at his book store the next day, he has a rare book he wish her to see. When Gemma arrives at his store she found him dead in his office.....setting the stage for another saga....
My thoughts:
The author gives us enough contexts setting making it easy to get into it at this point but don’t get baited by the lovely title this story is a cozy classic mystery easy to figure out what’s happening before it happens. No mind-bending or dazzling mystery to figure out just the very observant Gemma, her best friend Jayne and sister Pippa following Paul’s trail of friends, enemies, clients and ex-lovers. To get to the bottom of this mystery the team of sleuths use all their wit before their time in London is over and while doing so they entertained us along the way. Their characterization is the run of the mill nothing special in my books.
I enjoyed this story but plot wise nothing to write home about: simple and easy to follow, nicely written for all to enjoy and being entertained but nothing more.
I received this ARC from the publisher Crooked Lane Books via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.
January 7, 2026
This book takes the usual characters away from their usual setting in West London, Massachusetts and places them "across the pond" in London, England. They have all been invited to the wedding of Gemma Doyle's sister, Pippa, to Grant Thompson, who is also a friend of Gemma's (and has appeared in previous books in the series.) A murder occurs, and Gemma's ex-husband is the victim. It's a good story, but I did miss the usual setting of the bookstore and tearoom in West London, as well as Gemma's dogs and her hilarious cat, Moriarty. However, it was nice to visit London, too! I am enjoying this series very much and will certainly read book #11 when it becomes available to me.
June 19, 2024
Thank you Vicki Delany ( @vicki.delany ), Crooked Lane Books ( @crookedlanebooks ), and NetGalley ( @netgalley ) for allowing me to read The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime early (comes out January 14, 2025).
The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime is the latest installment in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop mystery series.
Bookstore proprietor, Gemma Doyle is back. This time she and her friends have crossed the pond again to attend the wedding of their friend, Grant, to Gemma’s sister, Pippa, in London.
While there, Gemma has a run in with her ex-husband, who she later finds dead! To help offer some closure on that part of her life, Gemma decides she is going to find his murderer, which is easier said than done.
This is a great addition to the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop mystery series. I love Gemma’s attention to detail.
#TheIncidentoftheBookintheNighttime #NetGalley #VickiDelany #CrookedLaneBooks
The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime is the latest installment in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop mystery series.
Bookstore proprietor, Gemma Doyle is back. This time she and her friends have crossed the pond again to attend the wedding of their friend, Grant, to Gemma’s sister, Pippa, in London.
While there, Gemma has a run in with her ex-husband, who she later finds dead! To help offer some closure on that part of her life, Gemma decides she is going to find his murderer, which is easier said than done.
This is a great addition to the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop mystery series. I love Gemma’s attention to detail.
#TheIncidentoftheBookintheNighttime #NetGalley #VickiDelany #CrookedLaneBooks
July 23, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
I will admit, this one's on me.
The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime is the 10th entry in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series. As such, it has to champion the challenge of accounting for all the series' characters, even if that means immediately sidelining them for the whole book.
I, unfortunately, did not realise this was a late entry in a series and therefore was somewhat miffed about both the multitude of unused characters aswell as the apparent undercharacterization throughout the book.
Now, as far as the book itself goes, it was a quick & enjoyable reading experience. Certainly something best suited for a summer vacation, or a lazy sunday afternoon.
As I mentioned, the character work is somewhat lacking, but if you're this deep into a series, that's more than understandable.
The mystery at hand, while not entirely original, is gripping enough to captivate anyone who's into detective novels at all.
Another thing that might suit your fancy but was somewhat irritating to me is the constant mention and/or description of London streets, metro stations etc.
It reads like an attempt at making the city feel like a character itself, but as someone who's only been to London once, most of it I just skipped automatically.
I will admit, this one's on me.
The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime is the 10th entry in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series. As such, it has to champion the challenge of accounting for all the series' characters, even if that means immediately sidelining them for the whole book.
I, unfortunately, did not realise this was a late entry in a series and therefore was somewhat miffed about both the multitude of unused characters aswell as the apparent undercharacterization throughout the book.
Now, as far as the book itself goes, it was a quick & enjoyable reading experience. Certainly something best suited for a summer vacation, or a lazy sunday afternoon.
As I mentioned, the character work is somewhat lacking, but if you're this deep into a series, that's more than understandable.
The mystery at hand, while not entirely original, is gripping enough to captivate anyone who's into detective novels at all.
Another thing that might suit your fancy but was somewhat irritating to me is the constant mention and/or description of London streets, metro stations etc.
It reads like an attempt at making the city feel like a character itself, but as someone who's only been to London once, most of it I just skipped automatically.
February 11, 2025
In this book, Gemma and her friends are in London, England, for the wedding of Gemma's, Pippa. As Gemma is leaving the wedding reception she finds her ex-husband waiting in the hotel lobby. They agree to meet the next day. When Gemma goes to the bookstore to meet her ex, she finds his dead body in his office. Gemma starts asking questions and in the beginning only runs into dead ends. The story shows Gemma's family more since it takes place in London especially Pippa. The book was an easy read.
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