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Barker & Llewelyn #9
Old Scores
When a Japanese diplomat is murdered, and Cyrus Barker is the prime suspect, Barker and sidekick Llewelyn must work against the clock to find the real killer.
In London of 1890, the first Japanese diplomatic delegation arrives in London to open an embassy in London. Cyrus Barker, private enquiry agent and occasional agent for the Foreign Service Office, is enlisted to display his personal Japanese garden to the visiting dignitaries.
Later that night, Ambassador Toda is shot and killed in his office and Cyrus Barker is discovered across the street, watching the very same office, in possession of a revolver with one spent cartridge.
Arrested by the Special Branch for the crime, Barker is vigorously interrogated and finally released due to the intervention of his assistant, Thomas Llewelyn, and his solicitor. With the London constabulary still convinced of his guilt, Barker is hired by the new Japanese ambassador to find the real murderer.
In a case that takes leads Barker and Llewelyn deep into parts of London's underworld, on paths that lead deep into Barker's own mysterious personal history, Old Scores is the finest yet in Will Thomas's critically acclaimed series.
In London of 1890, the first Japanese diplomatic delegation arrives in London to open an embassy in London. Cyrus Barker, private enquiry agent and occasional agent for the Foreign Service Office, is enlisted to display his personal Japanese garden to the visiting dignitaries.
Later that night, Ambassador Toda is shot and killed in his office and Cyrus Barker is discovered across the street, watching the very same office, in possession of a revolver with one spent cartridge.
Arrested by the Special Branch for the crime, Barker is vigorously interrogated and finally released due to the intervention of his assistant, Thomas Llewelyn, and his solicitor. With the London constabulary still convinced of his guilt, Barker is hired by the new Japanese ambassador to find the real murderer.
In a case that takes leads Barker and Llewelyn deep into parts of London's underworld, on paths that lead deep into Barker's own mysterious personal history, Old Scores is the finest yet in Will Thomas's critically acclaimed series.
294 pages, Hardcover
First published October 3, 2017
223 people are currently reading
881 people want to read
About the author
Will Thomas
44 books1,078 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Will Thomas, born 1958 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is a novelist who writes a Victorian mystery series featuring Cyrus Barker, a Scottish detective or "private enquiry agent," and his Welsh assistant, Thomas Llewelyn. The Barker/Llewelyn novels are set in the 1880s and often feature historical events, people, and movements. Martial combat is a recurring theme throughout this hardboiled series.
Prior to writing novels, Will Thomas wrote essays for Sherlock Holmes society publications and lectured on crime fiction of the Victorian era.
Will Thomas' first novel, Some Danger Involved, was nominated for a Barry Award and a Shamus Award, and won the 2005 Oklahoma Book Award. In 2015, he won the Oklahoma Book Award a second time for Fatal Enquiry. Will Thomas has been featured on the cover of Library Journal, and was the Toastmaster at the 2007 Great Manhattan Mystery Conclave in Manhattan, Kansas. His fifth novel, The Black Hand, was nominated for a 2009 Shamus Award. He is married to author Julia Bryan Thomas.
Series:
. Barker and Llewelyn
Will Thomas, born 1958 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is a novelist who writes a Victorian mystery series featuring Cyrus Barker, a Scottish detective or "private enquiry agent," and his Welsh assistant, Thomas Llewelyn. The Barker/Llewelyn novels are set in the 1880s and often feature historical events, people, and movements. Martial combat is a recurring theme throughout this hardboiled series.
Prior to writing novels, Will Thomas wrote essays for Sherlock Holmes society publications and lectured on crime fiction of the Victorian era.
Will Thomas' first novel, Some Danger Involved, was nominated for a Barry Award and a Shamus Award, and won the 2005 Oklahoma Book Award. In 2015, he won the Oklahoma Book Award a second time for Fatal Enquiry. Will Thomas has been featured on the cover of Library Journal, and was the Toastmaster at the 2007 Great Manhattan Mystery Conclave in Manhattan, Kansas. His fifth novel, The Black Hand, was nominated for a 2009 Shamus Award. He is married to author Julia Bryan Thomas.
Series:
. Barker and Llewelyn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
August 7, 2017
4.5 stars
Can I start with how much I love these covers? Each is a work of art with shadowy figures, unmistakably Victorian, shrouded in foggy gaslight. The tone is set. You know you’re in for a clever, atmospheric mystery full of colourful characters.
It’s 1890 & at the home of Cyrus Barker, staff are getting ready for a special visitor. Barker is hosting a Japanese delegation who are in London to open an embassy. The ambassador is a soft spoken, gentle man who appreciates Barker’s garden. However, the ministers & body guards who accompany him seem less than impressed.
Thomas Llewelyn has been working with Barker for several years now & beneath the polite conversation, he picks up an odd tension. Something is very wrong. His spidey-senses prove correct when later that night the ambassador is shot & Barker arrested in possession of a fired pistol.
It’s a PR disaster for the Foreign Office & Trelawny Campbell-Ffinch (who’s as pretentious as his name) is determined to convict Barker as quickly as possible. But the canny detective has a few friends in useful places. He’s soon back in his office where he gets an interesting offer. General Mononobe, one of the delegates, wants him to find the ambassador’s killer.
What follows is a ripping story full of secrets, riddles, hidden identities & dirty politics. And danger of course, usually at the expense of long suffering Thomas. The clash of cultures presents a unique challenge. But Barker is up to the task of deciphering the enigmatic Japanese contingent. Faithful fans know he spent time there before settling in London & for the first time, we get some glimpses of his mysterious past.
Thomas’ personal life is slowly moving forward as he continues to spend time with widow Rebecca Cowan & she plays a much larger role in this outing as she begins to meet the people that make up his adopted family. The gang is all back including Harm, a judgemental Pekingese who is the true master of the house. Each of these characters is so well rendered with distinct personalities & colourful backgrounds. They’re a ragtag bunch that act like siblings. Sometimes they fight but they always have each others’ backs.
This is book #9 & as with all series, readers have their favourites. To be honest, I didn’t love the last one but I think it was more about setting than story. So I’m thrilled to report this one finds Barker & Llewelyn in top form & right where they belong….in the middle of a clever, intricate mystery. Highly recommend this series, starting with Some Danger Involved.
Can I start with how much I love these covers? Each is a work of art with shadowy figures, unmistakably Victorian, shrouded in foggy gaslight. The tone is set. You know you’re in for a clever, atmospheric mystery full of colourful characters.
It’s 1890 & at the home of Cyrus Barker, staff are getting ready for a special visitor. Barker is hosting a Japanese delegation who are in London to open an embassy. The ambassador is a soft spoken, gentle man who appreciates Barker’s garden. However, the ministers & body guards who accompany him seem less than impressed.
Thomas Llewelyn has been working with Barker for several years now & beneath the polite conversation, he picks up an odd tension. Something is very wrong. His spidey-senses prove correct when later that night the ambassador is shot & Barker arrested in possession of a fired pistol.
It’s a PR disaster for the Foreign Office & Trelawny Campbell-Ffinch (who’s as pretentious as his name) is determined to convict Barker as quickly as possible. But the canny detective has a few friends in useful places. He’s soon back in his office where he gets an interesting offer. General Mononobe, one of the delegates, wants him to find the ambassador’s killer.
What follows is a ripping story full of secrets, riddles, hidden identities & dirty politics. And danger of course, usually at the expense of long suffering Thomas. The clash of cultures presents a unique challenge. But Barker is up to the task of deciphering the enigmatic Japanese contingent. Faithful fans know he spent time there before settling in London & for the first time, we get some glimpses of his mysterious past.
Thomas’ personal life is slowly moving forward as he continues to spend time with widow Rebecca Cowan & she plays a much larger role in this outing as she begins to meet the people that make up his adopted family. The gang is all back including Harm, a judgemental Pekingese who is the true master of the house. Each of these characters is so well rendered with distinct personalities & colourful backgrounds. They’re a ragtag bunch that act like siblings. Sometimes they fight but they always have each others’ backs.
This is book #9 & as with all series, readers have their favourites. To be honest, I didn’t love the last one but I think it was more about setting than story. So I’m thrilled to report this one finds Barker & Llewelyn in top form & right where they belong….in the middle of a clever, intricate mystery. Highly recommend this series, starting with Some Danger Involved.
April 13, 2018
Downward slide continues for this series, starting with Hell Bay, which was mostly held aloft by my previous enthusiasm for the earlier books. If you are new to this series also, do NOT start with this one--since facts are doled out VERY sparingly to an almost teasing degree in these books (is it the first time we've actually seen Barker's mutilated eye described in detail? I think it might be)--you'll have to go back to the first book, because the loquacious narrator is very sparse on details from previous adventures. You rarely get backstory in these books--more like back-sentence, or in this one back- paragraphs, where we find out more information from Barker's mysterious past. Which considering he's been the shadowy figure in dark glasses and curious scars center for the past NINE books, this is the first time for sure we find out what happened to make him wear sunglasses in 1890.
Maybe it's the Maisie syndrome. I found those books great, with a few eyerolls, but the latest ones I just can't deal with her as the main character anymore. Maybe that's what's happening to me with another series I formerly enjoyed--Thomas Llewelyn gets on my nerves now and Barker isn't much better. I was not pleased about them all forgetting Bok Fu Ying at the end of the book (for like the last 40 or so pages, I was all, "Ummmm....aren't you guys forgetting something? Quit with the truffled eggs prepared by the irascible French chef and raking sand in your yen serenity garden and see your 'ward'!") Their actions completely negate a lot of their "good guyness" to me.
So they're kind of self-absorbed (the eccentric but now verging on cliche surroundings/routine) men of their time--so their views on women as items to possess or give away or attitudes are yes, just a mark of the time. Yet as another reviewer pointed out there's no wry subtext or distance showing how these opinions throughout (for example: the total and oft repeated regret of not being able to force her to marry one of his old buddies) might be a little wincing. Besides, I think any subtext in this book got drowned out by the typical inscrutable ninja/samurai/sumo wrestler/triad criminal beating a giant dragon gong.
This could be fixed with a new narrator and honestly wish there was a different take on all this from someone besides Thomas. Look at Elizabeth Peters for example--writing action/mystery during same time period--having Amelia Peabody cede the floor occasionally made that series better.
Maybe it's the Maisie syndrome. I found those books great, with a few eyerolls, but the latest ones I just can't deal with her as the main character anymore. Maybe that's what's happening to me with another series I formerly enjoyed--Thomas Llewelyn gets on my nerves now and Barker isn't much better. I was not pleased about them all forgetting Bok Fu Ying at the end of the book (for like the last 40 or so pages, I was all, "Ummmm....aren't you guys forgetting something? Quit with the truffled eggs prepared by the irascible French chef and raking sand in your yen serenity garden and see your 'ward'!") Their actions completely negate a lot of their "good guyness" to me.
So they're kind of self-absorbed (the eccentric but now verging on cliche surroundings/routine) men of their time--so their views on women as items to possess or give away or attitudes are yes, just a mark of the time. Yet as another reviewer pointed out there's no wry subtext or distance showing how these opinions throughout (for example: the total and oft repeated regret of not being able to force her to marry one of his old buddies) might be a little wincing. Besides, I think any subtext in this book got drowned out by the typical inscrutable ninja/samurai/sumo wrestler/triad criminal beating a giant dragon gong.
This could be fixed with a new narrator and honestly wish there was a different take on all this from someone besides Thomas. Look at Elizabeth Peters for example--writing action/mystery during same time period--having Amelia Peabody cede the floor occasionally made that series better.
August 11, 2023
I really enjoyed that this book was titled Old Scores as it was indeed a book about settling old scores. Cyrus Barker was an enigma of a man and in this installment readers will learn more about Cyrus’s history and how his past and present collide in a drastic way. In addition, there is also a nice mystery, character growth, a little bit of romance, and a surprise ending to keep you entertained. Old Scores is one of those mystery novels that have an intricate mystery that is woven in such a way that you just can’t put the book down until the bitter end. It was a fantastic read!
This review is based on a complimentary book I received from NetGalley. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
This review is based on a complimentary book I received from NetGalley. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
June 23, 2017
Another interesting case for Barker and Llewelyn in Victorian London.
I've now read all nine novels in this series.
I've now read all nine novels in this series.
June 12, 2024
A delegation from Japan come to visit Cyrus Barker's garden. They really enjoy it.
Very soon after, a member of the delegation is dead, and Barker is arrested for murder. Llewelyn is lucky not to be in the pen himself. Barker's ward is involved, and is having problems with her husband, the kingpin of the Chinese mob. And of course, the Foreign Service, with a grudge against Barker and Llewlyn also makes its presence known.
There's some good things, but you know how it will end as soon you know the focus is on the Japanese.
Very soon after, a member of the delegation is dead, and Barker is arrested for murder. Llewelyn is lucky not to be in the pen himself. Barker's ward is involved, and is having problems with her husband, the kingpin of the Chinese mob. And of course, the Foreign Service, with a grudge against Barker and Llewlyn also makes its presence known.
There's some good things, but you know how it will end as soon you know the focus is on the Japanese.
October 7, 2017
First Sentence: I suppose it all began with the garden.
A delegation of Japanese diplomats is in London to discuss opening an embassy. Enquiry Agent Cyrus Barker, who lived in Japan, is asked to show the gentlemen his garden. When Ambassador Toda is murdered later that night, and Barker found across the street, he is arrested, interrogated, and finally released. Scotland Yard isn’t convinced of his innocence, but the new Japanese ambassador implores Barker and Llewelyn to find the real killer.
One would be hard-pressed to find a more delightful story narrator than Thomas Llewelyn—“’Is there anything I can do?’ I asked, … ‘I could help with the penjing trees…’ ‘No, no, lad, you just go ahead and read.’ Very well, so I’m not an expert gardener. Some wag, probably our butler, Max, expressed the belief that bonsai (to give them the Japanese name) Scream at the mention of my name. England has been called a nation of gardeners, but no one said anything about Wales.”
The author is very good at providing background as one goes and throwing in very effective plot twists. He also tosses in small bits of philosophy and/or perspective--
Berker gold me once that when someone criticizes you, you must take it to heart, and try to see yourself from his or her point of view.”
We are given a look at Japan’s politics during an interesting time of history, and politics between the traditionalists and the progressives. As usual, it was the US which throw things into turmoil.
The dialogue is wonderfully done. One looks forward to the humorous—“’How do we know anything without asking’ “Seen and ye shall find: knock and the door will be opened unto you.’ Barker smiled. ‘Well, well,’ he said ‘So he can quote scripture.’ ‘As Shakespeare said, ‘The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose.’”
There are a couple of characters those who follow the series will be pleased to see; Rebecca Cowan, Llewelyn’s intended, and Fu Yung, Barker’s ward. The meeting between the two women is delightful. Moreover, it’s a pleasant reminder of how well-developed are all of Thomas’ characters, include those who are female. Barker’s story of his time in Japan is enlightening and tragic. It explains quite a bit about the character. Thomas is someone followers of the series have seen grow and change. This is not a series where the characters stagnate.
Between Barker’s French-trained chef, and his Chinese friends and restaurant owner Ho, food always plays a role. From eggs in truffle butter, to bacon sandwiches, noodles with prawns, and even fugu, the poisonous puffer fish, it is delectably described.
Just when one may think there is a lot of talk and not a lot of action, one is proven very wrong. There is a nice twist in that the bad guys don’t always die. Too, there is a wonderful reference to the Battle of Culloden.
“Old Scores” is a pleasurable balance of well-done characters, dialogue, and suspense along with fascinating lessons of history.
OLD SCORES (Hist Mys-Barker and Llewelyn – London – VG
Thomas, Will – 9th in series
Minotaur Books – October 2017
A delegation of Japanese diplomats is in London to discuss opening an embassy. Enquiry Agent Cyrus Barker, who lived in Japan, is asked to show the gentlemen his garden. When Ambassador Toda is murdered later that night, and Barker found across the street, he is arrested, interrogated, and finally released. Scotland Yard isn’t convinced of his innocence, but the new Japanese ambassador implores Barker and Llewelyn to find the real killer.
One would be hard-pressed to find a more delightful story narrator than Thomas Llewelyn—“’Is there anything I can do?’ I asked, … ‘I could help with the penjing trees…’ ‘No, no, lad, you just go ahead and read.’ Very well, so I’m not an expert gardener. Some wag, probably our butler, Max, expressed the belief that bonsai (to give them the Japanese name) Scream at the mention of my name. England has been called a nation of gardeners, but no one said anything about Wales.”
The author is very good at providing background as one goes and throwing in very effective plot twists. He also tosses in small bits of philosophy and/or perspective--
Berker gold me once that when someone criticizes you, you must take it to heart, and try to see yourself from his or her point of view.”
We are given a look at Japan’s politics during an interesting time of history, and politics between the traditionalists and the progressives. As usual, it was the US which throw things into turmoil.
The dialogue is wonderfully done. One looks forward to the humorous—“’How do we know anything without asking’ “Seen and ye shall find: knock and the door will be opened unto you.’ Barker smiled. ‘Well, well,’ he said ‘So he can quote scripture.’ ‘As Shakespeare said, ‘The devil can cite Scripture for his purpose.’”
There are a couple of characters those who follow the series will be pleased to see; Rebecca Cowan, Llewelyn’s intended, and Fu Yung, Barker’s ward. The meeting between the two women is delightful. Moreover, it’s a pleasant reminder of how well-developed are all of Thomas’ characters, include those who are female. Barker’s story of his time in Japan is enlightening and tragic. It explains quite a bit about the character. Thomas is someone followers of the series have seen grow and change. This is not a series where the characters stagnate.
Between Barker’s French-trained chef, and his Chinese friends and restaurant owner Ho, food always plays a role. From eggs in truffle butter, to bacon sandwiches, noodles with prawns, and even fugu, the poisonous puffer fish, it is delectably described.
Just when one may think there is a lot of talk and not a lot of action, one is proven very wrong. There is a nice twist in that the bad guys don’t always die. Too, there is a wonderful reference to the Battle of Culloden.
“Old Scores” is a pleasurable balance of well-done characters, dialogue, and suspense along with fascinating lessons of history.
OLD SCORES (Hist Mys-Barker and Llewelyn – London – VG
Thomas, Will – 9th in series
Minotaur Books – October 2017
October 24, 2017
3.5 stars for me - not my favorite book of the series
I continue to enjoy the relationship between Barker & Llewelyn and their household. We are signaled early on that there are dark and difficult buried events of the past that will feature in the main action simply by Llewelyn's reading of Barker's body language when he greets the Japanese delegates that arrive to view Barker's garden. Not long after this visit one member of the delegation is killed.
We learn a thing or two about Japan along with Llewelyn, our narrator, but we also learn of Barker's experience in that country as a younger man. It has been a slow reveal of his earlier life, and it was rather heartbreaking if you are a fan.
This is definitely not a book to start with.
I continue to enjoy the relationship between Barker & Llewelyn and their household. We are signaled early on that there are dark and difficult buried events of the past that will feature in the main action simply by Llewelyn's reading of Barker's body language when he greets the Japanese delegates that arrive to view Barker's garden. Not long after this visit one member of the delegation is killed.
We learn a thing or two about Japan along with Llewelyn, our narrator, but we also learn of Barker's experience in that country as a younger man. It has been a slow reveal of his earlier life, and it was rather heartbreaking if you are a fan.
This is definitely not a book to start with.
October 17, 2017
4.5 stars - I love this series, which seems better with each outing. In this case we learn more about the dour and mysterious Cyrus Barker’s past as he and assistant Thomas Llewelyn try to track down the assassin of the Japanese ambassador.
The mystery was very interesting and I was pleased to learn more about Japan and it’s history. I look forward to the next in the series. Recommended to fans of historical mysteries with a soupçon of humor!
The mystery was very interesting and I was pleased to learn more about Japan and it’s history. I look forward to the next in the series. Recommended to fans of historical mysteries with a soupçon of humor!
October 30, 2017
I was going to give this book the customary 4 stars I gave to the others in the series, but I realized that I really, really liked the book - they are getting better and better. I love the characters and the way they are ripening and shaping themselves...so, 5 stars. I highly recommend this historical mystery series.
November 19, 2018
Old Scores by Will Thomas is book #9 in the Barker and Llewelyn series brings the past back to haunt Cyrus Barker as his time in the Orient shadows a murder in his own backyard. But is Barker's time in Japan a reason to turn to him or a reason for Barker to commit murder.
"...I suppose it all began with the garden. Cyrus Barker's garden, I mean. It was a particularly good year for some reason. Everything came together perfectly. The gardeners were working, hard-pressed to keep the growth from getting out of hand, and anything attempted for the first time grew and flourished. It was too perfect, if you know what I mean. One cannot have the ointment without the fly, the yang without the yin.
When a Japanese diplomat is murdered, and Cyrus Barker is the prime suspect, Barker and sidekick Llewelyn must work against the clock to find the real killer. The mystery will take them down the dark alleys in London, to the sinister machinations of the government and the history of Cyrus Barker.
Old Scores delves into the history of Cyrus Barker his time in Japan. His ward and how she came to be with him and his dealings with London's Asian culture and criminal underground. The character of Barker is enigmatic throughout the series, the reader is given hints to the past and these hints are expected to explain many of his actions and his range of knowledge. A greater glimpse into Barker's past reveals a man haunted by his actions and the responsibilities he has left behind.
Llewelyn has come to a crossroads in his own life. His love and his responsibilities, denied to him may finally be available. But will he move forward, against convention and wisdom.
But underneath it all is what one reads Barker and Llewelyn for. A mystery set in a time and place that breathes. London in the late 1800's is a horrible place. Dark and cruel with a sense of self-righteousness that oppresses the poor and weak.
This may not be the best book to start the series with, there are loose ties that come together here that will leave a new reader confused. Yet overall, it is a very good addition to the series.
"...I suppose it all began with the garden. Cyrus Barker's garden, I mean. It was a particularly good year for some reason. Everything came together perfectly. The gardeners were working, hard-pressed to keep the growth from getting out of hand, and anything attempted for the first time grew and flourished. It was too perfect, if you know what I mean. One cannot have the ointment without the fly, the yang without the yin.
When a Japanese diplomat is murdered, and Cyrus Barker is the prime suspect, Barker and sidekick Llewelyn must work against the clock to find the real killer. The mystery will take them down the dark alleys in London, to the sinister machinations of the government and the history of Cyrus Barker.
Old Scores delves into the history of Cyrus Barker his time in Japan. His ward and how she came to be with him and his dealings with London's Asian culture and criminal underground. The character of Barker is enigmatic throughout the series, the reader is given hints to the past and these hints are expected to explain many of his actions and his range of knowledge. A greater glimpse into Barker's past reveals a man haunted by his actions and the responsibilities he has left behind.
Llewelyn has come to a crossroads in his own life. His love and his responsibilities, denied to him may finally be available. But will he move forward, against convention and wisdom.
But underneath it all is what one reads Barker and Llewelyn for. A mystery set in a time and place that breathes. London in the late 1800's is a horrible place. Dark and cruel with a sense of self-righteousness that oppresses the poor and weak.
This may not be the best book to start the series with, there are loose ties that come together here that will leave a new reader confused. Yet overall, it is a very good addition to the series.
March 7, 2018
This was not my favorite book of the Barker and Llewelyn series. The plot was disjointed and most of the ink was spent on explanations of Japanese culture and contemporary (for the setting of the book) politics. It was certainly an interesting period in history, but if you took all those descriptions out of the book, there wouldn't be anything left. If you're looking for a light fluffy read, this isn't awful, but there's not much mystery or actual detective work to speak of.
Orientalism, while realistic for the period, is evident - without giving any nods to the modern reader that such views are outdated and hugely stereotypical- there were no plot twists or unexpected behaviors from the new characters. I also found the majority of the "backstory" unsatisfying. It strains credulity and while it helps wrap up this installment in a nice little bow, any tie-in to prior books is negligible (to my recollection) and I don't see how it will have much effect on any future books.
Orientalism, while realistic for the period, is evident - without giving any nods to the modern reader that such views are outdated and hugely stereotypical- there were no plot twists or unexpected behaviors from the new characters. I also found the majority of the "backstory" unsatisfying. It strains credulity and while it helps wrap up this installment in a nice little bow, any tie-in to prior books is negligible (to my recollection) and I don't see how it will have much effect on any future books.
January 27, 2020
Series continues to decline for me, although Thomas returns Barker & Llewelyn to the London milieu that provides them with the opportunity to be interesting. HELL BAY, the previous entry, was a disaster as these two characters, one a mostly withdrawn enigma and the other a very self-conscious and insecure worry wort did not shine in the island bound claustrophobic environment Thomas dropped them into. Interesting Japanese background history in this one, but very little suspense: the villain is telegraphed early as the story and plotting is repeatedly put aside for the ongoing series relationship issues, that by this entry, have degenerated into soap opera chit chat and dull debates. Will Llewelyn marry the woman whose family hates him and leave his master Barker, who does not yet trust him enough to let him in on their action plans and treats the loyal Llewelyn merely as a pawn? Yeah, about book twenty-six.
January 12, 2023
I think maybe this author needs to slow down a bit or else hire some help. The attraction of this series is the historical/cultural information, but things in that department seem sloppy. I'm not an expert on British history but I think I can puzzle out, for instance, that Trafalgar Square honors the hero of Trafalgar, not the hero of Waterloo. If really basic English cultural history like that is wrong, how can I trust any of the info about Japan?
December 6, 2017
3 & 1/2 stars really. If you enjoy the pace of Jane Austin and some really spot on History lessons, mixed with pre- Sherlock Holmes type detective work, this series is for you.
I find myself lost in 1890’s London and the formality of the dress and behavior both good and bad. Plus the Japanese visit was a grand bit of entertainment and education.
I find myself lost in 1890’s London and the formality of the dress and behavior both good and bad. Plus the Japanese visit was a grand bit of entertainment and education.
March 19, 2020
A Japanese diplomat has been murdered and, given his recent contact with him, as well as his proximity when the crime occurred, Cyrus Barker is the prime suspect. Taken under custody and roughly treated, he ends up being – oddly – released through the influence of his loyal assistant, Thomas Llewelyn. However, the mystery remains and the ambassador’s replacement hires Barker’s services to find out who is the real murderer. Still, it is no easy task and Barker and Llewelyn will need all their wits to bring the truth to light. For the Japanese have come with secret intentions – and Barker has old scores to settle with one of them.
One of the first things worth mentioning about this book is that, despite being the ninth volume in this series, it can easily be read without any prior knowledge. Doing so does, however, have a quite peculiar and pleasant side effect. One ends up wanting to read all the other volumes. Cyrus Barker is a fascinating character, with his troubled past, his brooding and intriguing personality and his strangely brilliant mind. Thomas, on the other hand, has a particularly impressive sense of loyalty, which becomes especially important given the kind of circumstances this duo tends to get themselves into. And so, since this is just one of their many cases together, one can’t help but want to know the others – especially given the solid web of relationships that Barker seems to have weaved around him.
There is also a delicate and fascinating balance between lightness and danger, humour and intrigue. The whole case is brilliant and the final resolution is particularly intense. But there is a particular strength in mixing all this mystery and intrigue with a series of strong personal relationships, with a delicious sense of humour (Thomas is a brilliant narrator) and some glimpses of vulnerability that work as an acute reminder that Cyrus Barker is, after all, immensely human.
And, of course, it is important to look to the scenery itself, with its marked contrasts. From the peaceful serenity of a Japanese garden to the inevitable chaos of an establishment made for conspiracies, there is an enthralling mixture of light and darkness that reflects in the characters' themselves. Also, there is a measure of habits and rituals that, given how this story ends, is especially remarkable.
Intriguing, intense and fascinating, this is, then, a book that, somewhat sherlockian by nature, soon reveals the true depth of its own particular identity. Fascinating characters, a brilliant plot and the perfect balance between lightness and danger turn this read into a book to remember.
** I received this book for free through Flapping Pages in exchange for an honest review.
One of the first things worth mentioning about this book is that, despite being the ninth volume in this series, it can easily be read without any prior knowledge. Doing so does, however, have a quite peculiar and pleasant side effect. One ends up wanting to read all the other volumes. Cyrus Barker is a fascinating character, with his troubled past, his brooding and intriguing personality and his strangely brilliant mind. Thomas, on the other hand, has a particularly impressive sense of loyalty, which becomes especially important given the kind of circumstances this duo tends to get themselves into. And so, since this is just one of their many cases together, one can’t help but want to know the others – especially given the solid web of relationships that Barker seems to have weaved around him.
There is also a delicate and fascinating balance between lightness and danger, humour and intrigue. The whole case is brilliant and the final resolution is particularly intense. But there is a particular strength in mixing all this mystery and intrigue with a series of strong personal relationships, with a delicious sense of humour (Thomas is a brilliant narrator) and some glimpses of vulnerability that work as an acute reminder that Cyrus Barker is, after all, immensely human.
And, of course, it is important to look to the scenery itself, with its marked contrasts. From the peaceful serenity of a Japanese garden to the inevitable chaos of an establishment made for conspiracies, there is an enthralling mixture of light and darkness that reflects in the characters' themselves. Also, there is a measure of habits and rituals that, given how this story ends, is especially remarkable.
Intriguing, intense and fascinating, this is, then, a book that, somewhat sherlockian by nature, soon reveals the true depth of its own particular identity. Fascinating characters, a brilliant plot and the perfect balance between lightness and danger turn this read into a book to remember.
** I received this book for free through Flapping Pages in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2020
It’s 1890 and things are becoming modernized when a Japanese delegation, in England to form a new embassy, arrive to visit Barker’s own Japanese garden along with the new ambassador. The team he arrives with are varied, and Llewelyn fancies that Barker recognizes one of the men.
When the ambassador is shot that same evening, Barker is found across the street and immediately arrested, although that doesn’t last long. Despite the Foreign Branch subjecting him to a more than necessary interrogation, his lawyer manages to procure his release. At the behest of the new ambassador, Barker and Llewelyn undertake an investigation to find the real murderer.
This time readers learn more of Barker’s past and his time in Japan, as well as the cultural overtones of the political situation of the era. There are personal details that come with personal revelations. Authentic period details spring off the page and speak to Thomas’ research. Llewelyn’s own situation comes into play, as does the ward Barker keeps an eye on, now married.
It’s a complex unraveling they must undertake, chock full of sly humor and a bit of suspense in a most atmospheric London.
When the ambassador is shot that same evening, Barker is found across the street and immediately arrested, although that doesn’t last long. Despite the Foreign Branch subjecting him to a more than necessary interrogation, his lawyer manages to procure his release. At the behest of the new ambassador, Barker and Llewelyn undertake an investigation to find the real murderer.
This time readers learn more of Barker’s past and his time in Japan, as well as the cultural overtones of the political situation of the era. There are personal details that come with personal revelations. Authentic period details spring off the page and speak to Thomas’ research. Llewelyn’s own situation comes into play, as does the ward Barker keeps an eye on, now married.
It’s a complex unraveling they must undertake, chock full of sly humor and a bit of suspense in a most atmospheric London.
August 24, 2017
Thank you to Minotaur Books, St. Martin Press for a review copy of this novel.
Oh, how lovely it was to be back in London spending time with Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn as they tackle the problem of the murdered Japanese Ambassador. The date is 1891 and there is a delegation of Japanese officials sent by the Emperor to set up an Ambassador's residence and offices in London. Japan had been under American influences for many years, but now they want to begin thinking globally. So what all does that involve? It's for sure they create quite a stir in London where Chinese are well known but the Japanese are a whole different story.
Readers who have been keeping up with this series will definitely want to read this book because of all the personal history revealed about Cyrus Barker. Thomas Llewelyn is the 26 year old Welsh employee of Mr. Barker who turns his hand to anything his boss needs for him to do in their roles as private inquiry agents. Even Llewelyn had no idea of the extent of past experiences he would discover as Barker walked through the political minefield of investigating this murder. How do they satisfactorily solve the crime when they know who the murderer was but can't come up with the proof?
This is a book filled to the brim with interesting historical information concerning Japan; the people, the history, the customs. I found it all very enjoyable and am please to say that once again Will Thomas has entertained me with his writing, his plotting, his solution to the crime, and the depth he has given to the major characters in this novel.
Oh, how lovely it was to be back in London spending time with Cyrus Barker and Thomas Llewelyn as they tackle the problem of the murdered Japanese Ambassador. The date is 1891 and there is a delegation of Japanese officials sent by the Emperor to set up an Ambassador's residence and offices in London. Japan had been under American influences for many years, but now they want to begin thinking globally. So what all does that involve? It's for sure they create quite a stir in London where Chinese are well known but the Japanese are a whole different story.
Readers who have been keeping up with this series will definitely want to read this book because of all the personal history revealed about Cyrus Barker. Thomas Llewelyn is the 26 year old Welsh employee of Mr. Barker who turns his hand to anything his boss needs for him to do in their roles as private inquiry agents. Even Llewelyn had no idea of the extent of past experiences he would discover as Barker walked through the political minefield of investigating this murder. How do they satisfactorily solve the crime when they know who the murderer was but can't come up with the proof?
This is a book filled to the brim with interesting historical information concerning Japan; the people, the history, the customs. I found it all very enjoyable and am please to say that once again Will Thomas has entertained me with his writing, his plotting, his solution to the crime, and the depth he has given to the major characters in this novel.
January 29, 2019
A delegation of Japanese diplomats arrive in London. Kew Gardens knows that Cyrus Barker has the best Japanese garden in all of London, so they ask if the new arrivals can view it. When the contingent arrives, Thomas Llewellyn, Barker's assistant, notices his boss' reaction to one of the members of the group. That night, one of the diplomats is assassinated and Barker is arrested after being caught on scene with a revolver containing a spent shell. However, Thomas and Barker's attorney are able to get him released and Barker's agency (consisting of Thomas and Cyrus) are hired by another member of the delegation to investigate the murder. As they close in on the murderer, it becomes clear that there are a lot of mysteries surrounding not just the diplomats, but also the Foreign Office, that wishes to cut out the Americans' hold in Japan. How many will die? This is one of the best series of historical crime novels; the reader will find out a lot, not just about London in the late 19th-century, but also history of other countries. Cyrus Barker spent time in the Far East during his youth and this will come into play as the story develops. Recommended for all who enjoy historical novels.
December 27, 2017
Whether one reads for the destination or the journey, Will Thomas delivers. Personally, I try to linger in these books. The interesting and relevant details never invade. The touches of humor add charm, encouraging a bond between the reader and the POV character, Thomas Llewelyn. Cyrus Barker becomes our mentor. In these stressful times, entertainment like this uplifts. Be it Mac, Etienne, or Harm, all of the regular characters contribute to the pleasure.
The mystery presented in Old Scores is well-plotted and well-placed and interesting throughout.
Highly recommended.
The mystery presented in Old Scores is well-plotted and well-placed and interesting throughout.
Highly recommended.
November 7, 2017
Engaging, intelligent mystery with insight into the ancient Japenese culture. Llewelyn's sardonic wit is a welcome bonus to these intense stories. It was also enlightening to get some of Barker's background. The series simply gets better with each successive story. The characters are meaty and the mysteries are thrilling.
Chapter 14, page 119 - "Each night, Cyrus Barker falls asleep in this manner: he lays his head on the pillow, he closes his eyes, he relaxes his body, and within sixty seconds, he begins to snore. It's that simple and that quick. It's another gift that God or nature has bestowed upon him, as opposed to lesser mortals. I, on the other hand, stare at the ceiling for hours, while all my insecurities and inadequacies parade above me, like the Lord Mayor's show."
Chapter 21, page 182 - "We stepped out into the street. It was raining in Limehouse. Misting, rather. I watched it fall through the nimbus of a gas lamp. It made the sordidness and misery of the district look temporarily quaint. That's the thing about England, you see. We can do our best to savage it, and somehow it always grows back or reveals its natural beauty. The landscape will outlast us all."
Chapter 25, page 214 - "...I'm not a bloody mushroom that thrives on being kept in the dark. It felt good to say it, even to Mac. If I didn't vent my steam, the boiler was going to explode."
Chapter 14, page 119 - "Each night, Cyrus Barker falls asleep in this manner: he lays his head on the pillow, he closes his eyes, he relaxes his body, and within sixty seconds, he begins to snore. It's that simple and that quick. It's another gift that God or nature has bestowed upon him, as opposed to lesser mortals. I, on the other hand, stare at the ceiling for hours, while all my insecurities and inadequacies parade above me, like the Lord Mayor's show."
Chapter 21, page 182 - "We stepped out into the street. It was raining in Limehouse. Misting, rather. I watched it fall through the nimbus of a gas lamp. It made the sordidness and misery of the district look temporarily quaint. That's the thing about England, you see. We can do our best to savage it, and somehow it always grows back or reveals its natural beauty. The landscape will outlast us all."
Chapter 25, page 214 - "...I'm not a bloody mushroom that thrives on being kept in the dark. It felt good to say it, even to Mac. If I didn't vent my steam, the boiler was going to explode."
September 7, 2018
It was nice to see the series get back to its roots... after the less successful variations on the theme, we get back to exploring the different cultures of the time a murder at a time. This time, Japan sends a delegation to England for trade and arms, and Barker gets hip deep in things as usual.
I'm not sure if it's just because it's the 9th book in the series, or if Thomas is losing steam, but this one just wasn't as enjoyable as the previous ones. We do get a lot more of Barker's back story, but its getting to the point where he's starting to turn into Victorian Forrest Gump, where he was everywhere for every event... we just need a scene where he rode with Stonewall Jackson or General Sherman or something.
It was a bit odd that it sort of ended on a cliff hanger, yet didn't mention the huge cliffhanger in the last book, but according to the reviews for the forthcoming book #10, it seems that might be getting taken care of.
On the plus side, the interaction between Llewelyn's fiancé and Barker's 'daughter' was fantastic, and while Thomas was a little overly snarky in this book, there were some entertaining one liners. I hope the next book gets to a good conclusion, rather than the series just sort of meandering forever.
I'm not sure if it's just because it's the 9th book in the series, or if Thomas is losing steam, but this one just wasn't as enjoyable as the previous ones. We do get a lot more of Barker's back story, but its getting to the point where he's starting to turn into Victorian Forrest Gump, where he was everywhere for every event... we just need a scene where he rode with Stonewall Jackson or General Sherman or something.
It was a bit odd that it sort of ended on a cliff hanger, yet didn't mention the huge cliffhanger in the last book, but according to the reviews for the forthcoming book #10, it seems that might be getting taken care of.
On the plus side, the interaction between Llewelyn's fiancé and Barker's 'daughter' was fantastic, and while Thomas was a little overly snarky in this book, there were some entertaining one liners. I hope the next book gets to a good conclusion, rather than the series just sort of meandering forever.
December 17, 2017
Was a little disappointed with this one. It lacked the snappy comments and one-liners I've come to expect from the series.
The plot was interesting, with the Japanese ambassador found murdered and Cyrus Barker the chief suspect, who is then hired by the new ambassador to discover who murdered his predecessor.
A good, workmanlike addition to the series, but lacked, for me, the spark that set most of the others apart.
The plot was interesting, with the Japanese ambassador found murdered and Cyrus Barker the chief suspect, who is then hired by the new ambassador to discover who murdered his predecessor.
A good, workmanlike addition to the series, but lacked, for me, the spark that set most of the others apart.
January 26, 2019
i love this series! only one left. i hope mr thomas continues this series with the same humor and snappy writing
October 16, 2019
Interesting story. 🌋 🗡
June 22, 2019
Probably more of a 3.5 , but I am rounding up for enjoyability! For someone like me who is a professed Sherlock Holmes hater, it is ironic that I would find this series so appealing, except that the two main protagonists bounce off each other in a far more realistic and believable manner: Barker is not so obfuscatory and arrogant while Llewelyn is brighter and much funnier than plodding old Watson!
In this particular outing, the similarities between the Nero Wolfe/Archie Goodwin series become especially obvious, in a good way! The bachelor milieu of Barker's Newington establishment echoes that of Wolfe's Upper East Side New York apartment, from the meticulous gardening to the gourmet dinners to the rancor between the two "Private Inquiry" agencies and their respective city's elite police forces! But there are important differences too. The most important being the recurring roles played by each man's fiancee. These attractive, smart women are taken seriously and given consideration, which is nicely satisfying to the 21st century reader!
The plot development here is lacking somewhat. The responsible killer is pretty obvious; it is uncovering his true relationships that matter. The book does have some regrettable redundancies and it is confusing trying to keep all the Japanese Embassy personnel straight. A word to the wise reader: don't stress over who's who, all will be made clear in the end.
In this particular outing, the similarities between the Nero Wolfe/Archie Goodwin series become especially obvious, in a good way! The bachelor milieu of Barker's Newington establishment echoes that of Wolfe's Upper East Side New York apartment, from the meticulous gardening to the gourmet dinners to the rancor between the two "Private Inquiry" agencies and their respective city's elite police forces! But there are important differences too. The most important being the recurring roles played by each man's fiancee. These attractive, smart women are taken seriously and given consideration, which is nicely satisfying to the 21st century reader!
The plot development here is lacking somewhat. The responsible killer is pretty obvious; it is uncovering his true relationships that matter. The book does have some regrettable redundancies and it is confusing trying to keep all the Japanese Embassy personnel straight. A word to the wise reader: don't stress over who's who, all will be made clear in the end.
October 15, 2017
Love this series, and got this book as soon as I could from my library. After the sensational Ripper story the mystery here returns to the roots of Barker’s history and history of the time crossing paths and murder again.
Japan is working on getting an embassy in England and the ambassador is murdered, the day after he sees Barker’s garden. Barker is the prime suspect but as usual, he turns the table and becomes the better detective than special branch or the special branch.
It’s a story where layers upon layers are pulled back, and the relationship between the Chinese (in England) and the Japanese are seen, the desires of England and Japan etc... and much of these stemming from America’s jarring and confrontational visit to Japan.
In addition to the world history is also a deeply personal history of Barker, which makes the story really wonderful, as it places the acts of brutality by politics and cultures in glaring light of how it effects humans.
If you are a fan, you won’t be disappointed.
Japan is working on getting an embassy in England and the ambassador is murdered, the day after he sees Barker’s garden. Barker is the prime suspect but as usual, he turns the table and becomes the better detective than special branch or the special branch.
It’s a story where layers upon layers are pulled back, and the relationship between the Chinese (in England) and the Japanese are seen, the desires of England and Japan etc... and much of these stemming from America’s jarring and confrontational visit to Japan.
In addition to the world history is also a deeply personal history of Barker, which makes the story really wonderful, as it places the acts of brutality by politics and cultures in glaring light of how it effects humans.
If you are a fan, you won’t be disappointed.
October 20, 2017
3.5 stars
I hate picking up a series midway. I didn’t realize Old Scores was a series until chapter 3 but by then I was hooked and didn’t want to put the story down. This book makes a great stand alone, there was only a few times that a person was mentioned who I didn’t know or wasn’t given a good background on. I’m interested in starting the series from the beginning now. I do think the language was a little off for the time period the book was set in. For example a character said are you serious in response to a statement once in the beginning and I don’t think that fits the time period. I enjoyed the characters, Mac and Thomas best. Baker was a little closed off for me as a reader but I think if I had read the whole series I wouldn't feel that way. I did get a little confused towards the end of the story during the wrap up of the case. There seemed to almost be too many people and too much going on at the end that all needed to be wrapped up. Thomas has created an interesting Sherlock-ese world that I enjoyed. Thank you to NetGalley & St. Martin’s Press for this eARC of Old Scores. This review is based on a complimentary book I received from NetGalley. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
I hate picking up a series midway. I didn’t realize Old Scores was a series until chapter 3 but by then I was hooked and didn’t want to put the story down. This book makes a great stand alone, there was only a few times that a person was mentioned who I didn’t know or wasn’t given a good background on. I’m interested in starting the series from the beginning now. I do think the language was a little off for the time period the book was set in. For example a character said are you serious in response to a statement once in the beginning and I don’t think that fits the time period. I enjoyed the characters, Mac and Thomas best. Baker was a little closed off for me as a reader but I think if I had read the whole series I wouldn't feel that way. I did get a little confused towards the end of the story during the wrap up of the case. There seemed to almost be too many people and too much going on at the end that all needed to be wrapped up. Thomas has created an interesting Sherlock-ese world that I enjoyed. Thank you to NetGalley & St. Martin’s Press for this eARC of Old Scores. This review is based on a complimentary book I received from NetGalley. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating.
October 20, 2017
Readers will learn more about mysterious private enquiry agent Cyrus Barker when he's hired to investigate the murder of the Japanese ambassador, a murder that police are sure Barker committed. He was, after all, found outside the house where the victim was staying, with one bullet missing from his recently fired gun. The Japanese have just sent an ill-assorted group of dignitaries and their body guards to open an embassy and to purchase British goods, and one of the things the ambassador wants to do is visit Barker's lovingly tended Japanese garden. Barker is, too, one of the few men in London who can speak Japanese. But Barker does not like to talk about the past, and his Chinese friends, mostly in London's Limehouse district, do not like the Japanese.
March 7, 2020
Thomas continues his string of great Barker & Llewellyn stories with Old Scores.
We get some insight into Barker’s past here as the two investigate the murder of the first Japanese ambassador to England. But first, Barker must clear himself of being the killer. There are plenty of other twists and turns here, but not so many that you can’t keep track of events.
As always, Thomas tells a terrific tale that brings the late 19th century to life.
The next book in this fine series is already on my ‘To Read’ list.
We get some insight into Barker’s past here as the two investigate the murder of the first Japanese ambassador to England. But first, Barker must clear himself of being the killer. There are plenty of other twists and turns here, but not so many that you can’t keep track of events.
As always, Thomas tells a terrific tale that brings the late 19th century to life.
The next book in this fine series is already on my ‘To Read’ list.
June 3, 2024
Rounded up to 4-star, barely. I enjoyed it and finished it but it is slow to move along in the middle. I don't know why it's been so long since I last read from this series. Japan-England politics in late 1800s. Still very Holmes-like but also kind of Nero Wolf-ish. Will definitely read #10 soon!!
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