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The Tommy Jones Mysteries #1
Murder at the Gasworks
London, 1860.
Ten-year-old workhouse escapee Tommy Jones is accused of murdering his only friend, a stoker at the gasworks. When the assigned City Police Inspector falls ill, shy, intellectual Sergeant Cuthbert Slaughter is put on the case.
As a second gasworks murder across the Thames is revealed, Slaughter must secretly collaborate with a rival detective to prevent a horrible injustice. Are the two deaths connected? If Tommy was not the killer, who wanted two stokers dead?
A mysterious cloaked man spying on the Bank of England, a poor clerk whose wife is under arrest for pilfering, the dumping of noxious substances into the river, all seem to be related. Hampered by his reticence, Slaughter must use all his wits to save the boy.
Ten-year-old workhouse escapee Tommy Jones is accused of murdering his only friend, a stoker at the gasworks. When the assigned City Police Inspector falls ill, shy, intellectual Sergeant Cuthbert Slaughter is put on the case.
As a second gasworks murder across the Thames is revealed, Slaughter must secretly collaborate with a rival detective to prevent a horrible injustice. Are the two deaths connected? If Tommy was not the killer, who wanted two stokers dead?
A mysterious cloaked man spying on the Bank of England, a poor clerk whose wife is under arrest for pilfering, the dumping of noxious substances into the river, all seem to be related. Hampered by his reticence, Slaughter must use all his wits to save the boy.
- GenresMysteryHistorical
248 pages, Paperback
Published March 6, 2026
3 people are currently reading
3 people want to read
About the author
Lisa M. Lane
11 books12 followersLisa M. Lane is an author and historian who writes in several genres, including historical mystery, literary fiction, and academic works. Novels include Before the Time Machine, the Tommy Jones Victorian mysteries, and the SoCal cozy Bummer at Luna Beach. She lives in San Diego.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Review of advance copy
ARC-Review, Received on Booksirens
"Insubordination, they call it." "Yes," said Martin with a rueful smile. "I'm familiar with the term." - Page 103
Tommy Jones finds Joe Carter dead in his flat. He had staid and lived with the stoker, from the Gasworks. Joe was poisoned and the police suspect Tommy. Only Sergeant Slaughter is convinced of the innocence of the young boy and has to face his own struggles to find the real murder. And then it turns out another stoker had also been murdered a few weeks earlier. But that is in the area of the Metropolitan Police and the rivalry with the City Police where Slaughter is working at is legendary.
I found this a wonderful and refreshing read. It is very different in style of the other Murder Mysteries I have read in the past, which on occasion slowed my enjoyment with the pace but with how smooth it read and felt it became a delight again soon!
The way the immense research of history and the gasworks showed up amazed me. It felt immersive and it was clear to me how much work, thought and love was put into this story. From the Rivalry of the City Police with the Metropolitan Police, to Lady Emily Peel and other historical people, with the Dumping of by-products of the gasworks and the union work.
The Characters are a delight and so wonderfully fleshed out. Sergeant Slaughter is a man of many strategic thoughts but with a social anxiety I can relate to, and he has a wonderful development through the book. His wife, Ellie Slaughter, is a wonderful strong woman that does nothing half-way, cares and is devoted. I love her very much. Tommy Jones is a fascinating young boy and since it is says "A Tommy Jones Mystery" I am happy to say that this is only the beginning of this curious and energetic boy and I will see about getting my hands on the other mysteries in the series that are already out.
I had to get used to the plot and the style of it, as I said. It is a lot slower paced and with less tension emotionally. Though there is still an urgency about it all. But it felt to me less threatening. The investigation takes time, ends up in several nothings and as a reader I got frustrated along with the characters about not getting any closer to a solution. I found the journey very fun regardless of the frustration. Now looking back I find the clue staring me right in the face, screaming to be noticed. But everyone is smarter in hindsight!
This is an amazing book and will recommend it to my friends who enjoy a good historical read with a murder mystery that carries you from the City of London to the Metropolitan Area, from the High Society to the stinking river at the gasworks.
"Insubordination, they call it." "Yes," said Martin with a rueful smile. "I'm familiar with the term." - Page 103
Tommy Jones finds Joe Carter dead in his flat. He had staid and lived with the stoker, from the Gasworks. Joe was poisoned and the police suspect Tommy. Only Sergeant Slaughter is convinced of the innocence of the young boy and has to face his own struggles to find the real murder. And then it turns out another stoker had also been murdered a few weeks earlier. But that is in the area of the Metropolitan Police and the rivalry with the City Police where Slaughter is working at is legendary.
I found this a wonderful and refreshing read. It is very different in style of the other Murder Mysteries I have read in the past, which on occasion slowed my enjoyment with the pace but with how smooth it read and felt it became a delight again soon!
The way the immense research of history and the gasworks showed up amazed me. It felt immersive and it was clear to me how much work, thought and love was put into this story. From the Rivalry of the City Police with the Metropolitan Police, to Lady Emily Peel and other historical people, with the Dumping of by-products of the gasworks and the union work.
The Characters are a delight and so wonderfully fleshed out. Sergeant Slaughter is a man of many strategic thoughts but with a social anxiety I can relate to, and he has a wonderful development through the book. His wife, Ellie Slaughter, is a wonderful strong woman that does nothing half-way, cares and is devoted. I love her very much. Tommy Jones is a fascinating young boy and since it is says "A Tommy Jones Mystery" I am happy to say that this is only the beginning of this curious and energetic boy and I will see about getting my hands on the other mysteries in the series that are already out.
I had to get used to the plot and the style of it, as I said. It is a lot slower paced and with less tension emotionally. Though there is still an urgency about it all. But it felt to me less threatening. The investigation takes time, ends up in several nothings and as a reader I got frustrated along with the characters about not getting any closer to a solution. I found the journey very fun regardless of the frustration. Now looking back I find the clue staring me right in the face, screaming to be noticed. But everyone is smarter in hindsight!
This is an amazing book and will recommend it to my friends who enjoy a good historical read with a murder mystery that carries you from the City of London to the Metropolitan Area, from the High Society to the stinking river at the gasworks.
Review of advance copy
The author Lisa A. Lane has written a historical mystery set in 1860's titled, Murder at the Gasworks. The book is part of the Tommy Jones mysteries. As with many authors, they use the plots of their stories to bring to the attention of their readers of many social issues. The reader realizes these issues not only relevant to the past but the present too.
In my opinion, to truly appreciate the writing of an author the reader needs to understand the philosophical background of an author. Ms. Lane has various influences in her life which will affect her writing. The fact she is a historical researcher adds authenticity and credibility to her stories. This is certainly true in this story. Her stories are meticulously researched. When reading this story, one will believe they are living in London in the 1860's. For example, she uses the names not of actual people but ones which were used at the time of the story. In addition to the names, she has actually historical make cameo appearances in her stories including this one.
Ms. Jones emphasis the historical aspects of her plots. There is an utilization of newspaper accounts, magazines, art, books, and the culture of the period. The implementation of these resources allows to become of the setting and deepens the story for us as readers. She believes her stories whether in novel or short story format broadens the story for her readers. Her perspective is her stories could have only occurred during the Mid-Victorian era of England. According to the author, the past is not only a passive setting but a place and times are where the commonalities of the past and present are crossed.
In this novel, the reader is beginning to see the beginning use of the scientific method being implemented. Even though the main character of her story Sgt. Carthbert Slaugher is modeled after Sherlock Holmes, he applies the use of forensic evidence in this murder inquiry. Sherlock Holmes depends more on instinct than scientific methods. The differences occur because of professional status, social approach, and detecting methods.
This is a very interesting story. It is a murder mystery where the conflict is a social one. The social class of ten year old Tommy Jones vs. the upper class status of London. Not only does Sgt. Slaughter need to clear Tommy of the crime but discover the identity of the real killer. The author guides you through the underbelly of London society but we view how the upper class of London live as well. Enjoy your read.
In my opinion, to truly appreciate the writing of an author the reader needs to understand the philosophical background of an author. Ms. Lane has various influences in her life which will affect her writing. The fact she is a historical researcher adds authenticity and credibility to her stories. This is certainly true in this story. Her stories are meticulously researched. When reading this story, one will believe they are living in London in the 1860's. For example, she uses the names not of actual people but ones which were used at the time of the story. In addition to the names, she has actually historical make cameo appearances in her stories including this one.
Ms. Jones emphasis the historical aspects of her plots. There is an utilization of newspaper accounts, magazines, art, books, and the culture of the period. The implementation of these resources allows to become of the setting and deepens the story for us as readers. She believes her stories whether in novel or short story format broadens the story for her readers. Her perspective is her stories could have only occurred during the Mid-Victorian era of England. According to the author, the past is not only a passive setting but a place and times are where the commonalities of the past and present are crossed.
In this novel, the reader is beginning to see the beginning use of the scientific method being implemented. Even though the main character of her story Sgt. Carthbert Slaugher is modeled after Sherlock Holmes, he applies the use of forensic evidence in this murder inquiry. Sherlock Holmes depends more on instinct than scientific methods. The differences occur because of professional status, social approach, and detecting methods.
This is a very interesting story. It is a murder mystery where the conflict is a social one. The social class of ten year old Tommy Jones vs. the upper class status of London. Not only does Sgt. Slaughter need to clear Tommy of the crime but discover the identity of the real killer. The author guides you through the underbelly of London society but we view how the upper class of London live as well. Enjoy your read.
March 15, 2026
Murder at the Gasworks, written by Lisa M Lane, is a beautifully written, and very well researched, historical fiction murder mystery novel. It is part of the Tommy Jones Mystery series. I was captivated and engaged from the first page right through to the end. It was very descriptive and detailed, making me feel I had been transported back in time to the 1860’s into the city of London. I could imagine the sights and smells of the Gasworks and what it would have been like for the people who lived and worked in this area during this period.
I loved the cast of characters listed at the front of the book which made it easy to identify each person and their roles they played in the story. It was very interesting to read that there were real historical figures within the story. I also thought that the 1860’s map of London was a good idea as it gave a great sense of understanding where everything was situated.
There were many twists and turns within the story which made it interesting. One minute I was sure I had guessed and worked out who the murderer was and what had happened. Then something else was made known which made me change my mind. I wanted to find out what had happened. It wasn’t until the end when all was revealed.
I liked the character of Lady Emily Peel. She was eager to help with the investigation. She risked her life and reputation going to a music night, held by the Manager of Pheonix Gasworks, to see if she could find out anything about the murders. When she was asked why she wanted to help she said, “I know a bit about people, men are usually delighted to explain things to me.” She looked after 10-year-old Tommy Jones, when he was sent to The Old Bailey Prison, by making sure he was looked after, feed, and wasn’t hurt. She even went to fencing lessons where they practiced using umbrellas as defence which proved to be very useful.
I also liked Detective Sergeant Cuthbert Slaughter. He was determined to solve the mystery of Joe Carters murder. He was certain Tommy was not involved in any way and wanted to prove his innocence. He and his wife looked after Tommy at their home when he had nowhere to stay. They bought him shoes and clothes. Cuthbert was a shy man with social issues. He was very nervous when around people, however he did his best not to let that stop it from interfering with his work.
I highly recommend reading this wonderful murder mystery book. Thank you to Lisa for allowing me to read this ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed this and give it five stars. Looking forward to the next book in The Tommy Jones Series.
I loved the cast of characters listed at the front of the book which made it easy to identify each person and their roles they played in the story. It was very interesting to read that there were real historical figures within the story. I also thought that the 1860’s map of London was a good idea as it gave a great sense of understanding where everything was situated.
There were many twists and turns within the story which made it interesting. One minute I was sure I had guessed and worked out who the murderer was and what had happened. Then something else was made known which made me change my mind. I wanted to find out what had happened. It wasn’t until the end when all was revealed.
I liked the character of Lady Emily Peel. She was eager to help with the investigation. She risked her life and reputation going to a music night, held by the Manager of Pheonix Gasworks, to see if she could find out anything about the murders. When she was asked why she wanted to help she said, “I know a bit about people, men are usually delighted to explain things to me.” She looked after 10-year-old Tommy Jones, when he was sent to The Old Bailey Prison, by making sure he was looked after, feed, and wasn’t hurt. She even went to fencing lessons where they practiced using umbrellas as defence which proved to be very useful.
I also liked Detective Sergeant Cuthbert Slaughter. He was determined to solve the mystery of Joe Carters murder. He was certain Tommy was not involved in any way and wanted to prove his innocence. He and his wife looked after Tommy at their home when he had nowhere to stay. They bought him shoes and clothes. Cuthbert was a shy man with social issues. He was very nervous when around people, however he did his best not to let that stop it from interfering with his work.
I highly recommend reading this wonderful murder mystery book. Thank you to Lisa for allowing me to read this ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed this and give it five stars. Looking forward to the next book in The Tommy Jones Series.
Review of advance copy
This is one of those rare pleasures where the author’s description doesn’t just sell the story—it is the story, precisely and honestly. Set in a grimy, clattering London of 1860, the novel wastes no time: a ten-year-old workhouse escapee, Tommy Jones, is accused of murdering his only friend, and the weight of injustice presses down from the very first pages. When the case falls to the shy, cerebral Sergeant Cuthbert Slaughter, what unfolds is not only a murder mystery but a finely observed portrait of a city, its machinery, and its forgotten people.
The narrative is accessible without ever being simplistic, moving at a confident, well-judged pace. The murders occur early, freeing the reader to focus on the why rather than the what, and the mystery is constructed with care—breadcrumbs are laid fairly, the solution believable, and yet far from easy to untangle. Every thread matters: a cloaked figure watching the Bank of England, a desperate clerk, toxic waste in the Thames. Nothing feels ornamental.
The characters are where this book truly shines. Tommy is unforgettable, but Sergeant Slaughter and his wife Ellie are equally compelling—Ellie in particular is no background presence, actively shaping the story and its outcomes. The wider cast, including several strong female figures, all have distinct voices; even minor characters feel purposeful. Dialogue rings true, and the sensory detail is immersive—London reeks, roars, and rattles with horses and carriages until it becomes a character in its own right.
This is historical crime done right: atmospheric, humane, intelligently plotted, and deeply satisfying. I learned a great deal about Victorian London, but more importantly, I cared—about the mystery, about the people, and about the injustice at its heart. A real pleasure to read. Five stars. Highly recommended.
Thank you to BookSirens for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The narrative is accessible without ever being simplistic, moving at a confident, well-judged pace. The murders occur early, freeing the reader to focus on the why rather than the what, and the mystery is constructed with care—breadcrumbs are laid fairly, the solution believable, and yet far from easy to untangle. Every thread matters: a cloaked figure watching the Bank of England, a desperate clerk, toxic waste in the Thames. Nothing feels ornamental.
The characters are where this book truly shines. Tommy is unforgettable, but Sergeant Slaughter and his wife Ellie are equally compelling—Ellie in particular is no background presence, actively shaping the story and its outcomes. The wider cast, including several strong female figures, all have distinct voices; even minor characters feel purposeful. Dialogue rings true, and the sensory detail is immersive—London reeks, roars, and rattles with horses and carriages until it becomes a character in its own right.
This is historical crime done right: atmospheric, humane, intelligently plotted, and deeply satisfying. I learned a great deal about Victorian London, but more importantly, I cared—about the mystery, about the people, and about the injustice at its heart. A real pleasure to read. Five stars. Highly recommended.
Thank you to BookSirens for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2026
Lisa M. Lane’s Murder at the Gasworks is a well researched, paced, and thoroughly enthralling murder mystery set in 1860s London. The book summary for a change is very accurate in its description and could actually go a little further to sell the book. Overall, I highly recommend this under the radar novel and I hope more fans of British historical murder mysteries find this gem.
The murders happen early in the book, so the story unfolds as each character plays a part in solving the mystery. Each character is well developed and I appreciated the many strong female characters who buck the stereotypes of that time. The women are well-rounded, self-assured, respected and capable, although understandably somewhat limited in their positions and opportunities given the time period. They both support the male lead characters and provide contrast both in socioeconomic status and drive. It is a nice addition to the novel.
Normally, I have much more to say and critique even for novels that I enjoy. In the case of this book, it is a solidly crafted story, nearly every character is likable or at least their motivations are understandable. I found myself rooting for Sergeant Cuthbert and Tommy Jones and I cheered on the escapades of Lady Emily Peel. This story really is a 5/5 stars, no notes kind of experience that I hope others also enjoy!
I am grateful to BookSirens and to the author for providing me with this free advance review copy of this book; I have read and honestly reviewed this book voluntarily.
The murders happen early in the book, so the story unfolds as each character plays a part in solving the mystery. Each character is well developed and I appreciated the many strong female characters who buck the stereotypes of that time. The women are well-rounded, self-assured, respected and capable, although understandably somewhat limited in their positions and opportunities given the time period. They both support the male lead characters and provide contrast both in socioeconomic status and drive. It is a nice addition to the novel.
Normally, I have much more to say and critique even for novels that I enjoy. In the case of this book, it is a solidly crafted story, nearly every character is likable or at least their motivations are understandable. I found myself rooting for Sergeant Cuthbert and Tommy Jones and I cheered on the escapades of Lady Emily Peel. This story really is a 5/5 stars, no notes kind of experience that I hope others also enjoy!
I am grateful to BookSirens and to the author for providing me with this free advance review copy of this book; I have read and honestly reviewed this book voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was a solid detective novel wherein all the clues are provided to the reader so they can solve the case with the detective if they read closely enough.
The characters were very likeable. I would love if this was the first in a series following Sargeant Slaughter and his detective career!
The setting was fantastic. I learned so much about London during that time period and what daily life was like then. I was learning without the book feeling like a textbook. It was very cool getting to the end of the book and finding out that so many of the characters were real historical figures.
I will be looking up the author’s other works because she is an excellent story teller.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters were very likeable. I would love if this was the first in a series following Sargeant Slaughter and his detective career!
The setting was fantastic. I learned so much about London during that time period and what daily life was like then. I was learning without the book feeling like a textbook. It was very cool getting to the end of the book and finding out that so many of the characters were real historical figures.
I will be looking up the author’s other works because she is an excellent story teller.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
This is the first book I've read by Lisa M Lane.
I am more than impressed.
My favorite genre is mysteries, and my favorite sub-genre is Victorian mysteries, so I was especially excited to read this.
Every character came alive on the page. All of them were very well fleshed out. And the scenery was so descriptive that I could lose myself and feel like I was actually there witnessing each scene and each place.
There were a couple of turns where I thought I'd figured out the killer, but I was wrong. The actual killer came as quite a surprise.
I think anyone who loves period mysteries will enjoy this book. I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my voluntary review.
I am more than impressed.
My favorite genre is mysteries, and my favorite sub-genre is Victorian mysteries, so I was especially excited to read this.
Every character came alive on the page. All of them were very well fleshed out. And the scenery was so descriptive that I could lose myself and feel like I was actually there witnessing each scene and each place.
There were a couple of turns where I thought I'd figured out the killer, but I was wrong. The actual killer came as quite a surprise.
I think anyone who loves period mysteries will enjoy this book. I highly recommend it.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving my voluntary review.
Review of advance copy
1860 London. When stoker Joe Carter is discovered dead, poisoned, 10 year old Tommy Jones, is arrested. Sergeant Slaughter is convinced he is innocent and continues the investigation only to discover a previous death of another stoker. Is there a connection between them, and what of the strange happenings at the Bank of England.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. A good start to this series.
I received a free copy of this book via LibraryThing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and interesting characters. A good start to this series.
I received a free copy of this book via LibraryThing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received this ARC from the author through Book Sirens.
This book is based on actual characters and events, woven together into a lovely story.
While the events weave together, it is not completely obvious initially, and the reader is taken through quite a trail of events to reach the conclusion.
What an interesting story it turns out to be, and the author has done a great job of describing the characters, events and locations so as to bring the reader into the tale.
This book is based on actual characters and events, woven together into a lovely story.
While the events weave together, it is not completely obvious initially, and the reader is taken through quite a trail of events to reach the conclusion.
What an interesting story it turns out to be, and the author has done a great job of describing the characters, events and locations so as to bring the reader into the tale.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery - and the conclusion was a bit of a surprise!
The setting appears to be well researched and the sheer drudgery of police work seems true to life - both make it easy to immerse myself in the story. I hope this is the first of a series - I love following characters through the many adventures in their lives.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The setting appears to be well researched and the sheer drudgery of police work seems true to life - both make it easy to immerse myself in the story. I hope this is the first of a series - I love following characters through the many adventures in their lives.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
February 7, 2026While this was a pleasant read and the detail of the clothes and time were good, the story didn't grab me. I finished it and was glad to have done so. Others may find this a good story, guess it just wasn't what I thought and probably not my style.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
My first book by this author.
I really enjoyed this book.
It was not at all, what i expected.
The book starts with the murder of a stocker at the gas works.
The suspect is a child.
The police arrive at the murder scene, however
soon the other stocker is found murdered and still the only suspect is the boy.
Beware of the twists in this book, you will not be bored.
❤️📚
I really enjoyed this book.
It was not at all, what i expected.
The book starts with the murder of a stocker at the gas works.
The suspect is a child.
The police arrive at the murder scene, however
soon the other stocker is found murdered and still the only suspect is the boy.
Beware of the twists in this book, you will not be bored.
❤️📚
Read
March 12, 2026Really ended up liking this book a lot. It was slow starting for me, but I stayed with it and by the 5th chapter I was hooked. I pretty much couldn't put it down. The relationship between Slaughter and his wife was very nice and I like how empathetic they were. A great blend of history and mystery.
I received an advance reader's copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance reader's copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 12, 2026
I enjoyed the mystery, first book that I have finished this year, it's telling that I wanted to read it. Something has gown awry in the literary world. However, this story has put me back on track. I highly recommend it. Thank you. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarialy. carolintallahassee
March 10, 2026
A delightful escape to historic London with a lovable cast of characters who have a murder to solve. Immersive and well-researched. Once Tommy Jones gets into your heart, the rest of the series is waiting to be devoured. A true delight!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book that drew parallels from actual events in London in the 1800’s. Liked the characters Mr and Mrs Slaughter and their relationship with young Tommy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews