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Death & Mirrors
A necromancer. A mirror world. A deathly doctor.
Evaline Wainwright is the daughter of acclaimed occult archaeologists. If her father has his way, she’ll marry the man next door and never learn to be a detective.
When a stranger dressed in black comes to the Wainwright home seeking help, Evaline is determined to discover the truth behind her request.
There’s a heinous criminal known as Doctor Death running amuck in a mirror world. If Evaline finds a mythical artifact, she might end the fiend’s streak of terror and possibly keep the creature from coming to London.
If you like a darker, grittier Alice in Wonderland, you’ll love SF Benson’s new Gaslamp fantasy.
Learn what happens when a budding detective falls down the rabbit hole.
Evaline Wainwright is the daughter of acclaimed occult archaeologists. If her father has his way, she’ll marry the man next door and never learn to be a detective.
When a stranger dressed in black comes to the Wainwright home seeking help, Evaline is determined to discover the truth behind her request.
There’s a heinous criminal known as Doctor Death running amuck in a mirror world. If Evaline finds a mythical artifact, she might end the fiend’s streak of terror and possibly keep the creature from coming to London.
If you like a darker, grittier Alice in Wonderland, you’ll love SF Benson’s new Gaslamp fantasy.
Learn what happens when a budding detective falls down the rabbit hole.
322 pages, Paperback
Published June 30, 2022
About the author
S.F. Benson
33 books86 followersSF Benson is the author of the paranormal suspense series, The Spell Caster Diaries. Although she knows everything about Falls Creek, New York and the supernaturals living there, she resides with her husband and daughter in Long Beach, CA. When she’s not writing about strong heroes and heroines conquering the odds, she spends her time either reading romance and fantasy novels or binge-watching her favorite DC Universe shows or Marvel movies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 6, 2022
Death & Mirrors is the first book in this YA Gaslamp fantasy. SF’s unique retelling with a twist of the fairy tale Alice In Wonderland. It has it all with necromancers, mythical artifact, a bizarre stranger, a heinous criminal, magick, a budding detective and so much more in this adventure.
The plot is interesting and the characters are as unique as the tale. It was an intriguing read that lovers of Gaslamp fantasy will love.
Evaline imagines herself a bit of detective like Sherlock Holmes not only that she is also a necromancer. When she happens upon a mystery, she soon finds herself falling down the rabbit's hole straight in to an alternate world.
The plot is interesting and the characters are as unique as the tale. It was an intriguing read that lovers of Gaslamp fantasy will love.
Evaline imagines herself a bit of detective like Sherlock Holmes not only that she is also a necromancer. When she happens upon a mystery, she soon finds herself falling down the rabbit's hole straight in to an alternate world.
July 8, 2022
4 Stars
Death & Mirrors is the first book in the All Things Dark & Deadly series by S.F Benson. This is my first experience with S.F Benson’s writing, so I was intrigued by what I might find between the covers. I love a great fantasy and from the blurb of this story it held the promise of a captivating story- and that’s exactly what I discovered when I plunged in. I am happy to have found this author and her intriguing stories. I can’t wait to explore more of her work.
As I mentioned, this is an intriguing fantasy with paranormal elements, a mirror/parallel world, a quest, action, adventure, danger, agendas, a sinister adversary, magic, family, loss, heartache, and much more.
Evaline Wainwright whisks us away on quite the adventure when she finds herself cast into a mirror world, a dark and dismal place overshadowed by the evil Doctor Death. She will need to find a legendary artefact if she has any chance of defeating this dastardly foe, before it’s all too late. With so much at stake what happens makes for an exciting read.
Plenty of intrigue and tension had me on the edge of my seat. Things are set to continue in the next book, ‘Death & Shadows’ (Book #2)- so I can’t wait to get my hands on it as soon as it releases to find out where we go from here.
Happy Reading!
Thank you, S.F. Benson!
Death & Mirrors is the first book in the All Things Dark & Deadly series by S.F Benson. This is my first experience with S.F Benson’s writing, so I was intrigued by what I might find between the covers. I love a great fantasy and from the blurb of this story it held the promise of a captivating story- and that’s exactly what I discovered when I plunged in. I am happy to have found this author and her intriguing stories. I can’t wait to explore more of her work.
As I mentioned, this is an intriguing fantasy with paranormal elements, a mirror/parallel world, a quest, action, adventure, danger, agendas, a sinister adversary, magic, family, loss, heartache, and much more.
Evaline Wainwright whisks us away on quite the adventure when she finds herself cast into a mirror world, a dark and dismal place overshadowed by the evil Doctor Death. She will need to find a legendary artefact if she has any chance of defeating this dastardly foe, before it’s all too late. With so much at stake what happens makes for an exciting read.
Plenty of intrigue and tension had me on the edge of my seat. Things are set to continue in the next book, ‘Death & Shadows’ (Book #2)- so I can’t wait to get my hands on it as soon as it releases to find out where we go from here.
Happy Reading!
Thank you, S.F. Benson!
July 6, 2022
Alice in wonderland meets Sherlock Holmes. This was such an enjoyable read.
Evaline’s mothers death has left her with questions. Just when she seems to be getting somewhere, a guest comes calling to seek magical assistance from Evaline’s father, an occult archaeologist. When he declines, Evaline’s curiosity gets the better of her. With her necromancy gift and detective skills, she finds herself on a mission in a mirror world - solve the mystery and get back home!
Evaline’s sassy and passionate personality made this book for me! The relationship with her childhood friend, Delbert, was adorable and Evaline’s determination to refine her skills to become a detective was refreshing, considering the setting in the late 1800’s.
The quirky characters we meet were a great addition to the story.
The pacing was good. I would have enjoyed more detail, especially about Evaline’s magic and the mirror world. This didn’t stop me having a great time.
The ending has me sitting on the edge on my seat for book 2!! Am looking forward to picking it up - this reader needs answers!
A great choice if you love a leading lady with some sass and enjoy a bit of mystery and magic!
Evaline’s mothers death has left her with questions. Just when she seems to be getting somewhere, a guest comes calling to seek magical assistance from Evaline’s father, an occult archaeologist. When he declines, Evaline’s curiosity gets the better of her. With her necromancy gift and detective skills, she finds herself on a mission in a mirror world - solve the mystery and get back home!
Evaline’s sassy and passionate personality made this book for me! The relationship with her childhood friend, Delbert, was adorable and Evaline’s determination to refine her skills to become a detective was refreshing, considering the setting in the late 1800’s.
The quirky characters we meet were a great addition to the story.
The pacing was good. I would have enjoyed more detail, especially about Evaline’s magic and the mirror world. This didn’t stop me having a great time.
The ending has me sitting on the edge on my seat for book 2!! Am looking forward to picking it up - this reader needs answers!
A great choice if you love a leading lady with some sass and enjoy a bit of mystery and magic!
July 7, 2022
Evaline is a necromancer and has dreams of being a great detective...so when a mysterious stranger shows up asking for her father's help (which he refuses), she is determined to get to the bottom of what is going on. This leads her to the mirror world where Dr. Death's reign is killing everything there and will soon begin spreading to London. Evaline is determined to stop them...but it requires finding the Firestone (a mythical artifact...no biggie, right?!?). With the help of her detective skills, necromancer skills, and some magic along the way, Evaline will work hard to stop Dr. Death before it is too late...will she be successful? (Hint: You have to read it to find out!)
I enjoyed this book. It follows the same storyline as Alice in Wonderland...but has witches, magic, and dead people. I found Evaline to be curious and I enjoyed following her on this adventure. It does end in a bit of a cliffhanger...so I will be looking forward to reading the next book to see what happens. Overall, a good story that I enjoyed reading.
I enjoyed this book. It follows the same storyline as Alice in Wonderland...but has witches, magic, and dead people. I found Evaline to be curious and I enjoyed following her on this adventure. It does end in a bit of a cliffhanger...so I will be looking forward to reading the next book to see what happens. Overall, a good story that I enjoyed reading.
July 6, 2022
So freaking good! I am some one who loves anything to do with ancient things, especially artifacts, so this book really called out to me. Once I started, I was invested to the point where I could not put this book down as it was just so intense at times, with its own intrigue!
Loved the mysterious surrounding this book. I loved how the author kept us as the reader interested with interesting events, a strange different world, that made me questions lot of things. And of course, wonderful characters that brought the story to life, along with the author’s sensational writing!
Loved this book with a passion. I will continuously recommend this book for a long time to come, it was perfectly done, and a must read for sure! Definitely do very much highly recommend! Loved it!
Loved the mysterious surrounding this book. I loved how the author kept us as the reader interested with interesting events, a strange different world, that made me questions lot of things. And of course, wonderful characters that brought the story to life, along with the author’s sensational writing!
Loved this book with a passion. I will continuously recommend this book for a long time to come, it was perfectly done, and a must read for sure! Definitely do very much highly recommend! Loved it!
July 6, 2022
I always love a good retelling and this book was a great example. It is unique take on Alice in Wonderland and the book has all the fun chaos that ia associated with it. I loved how dark and intense the story felt. It was so similar and yet at the same time completely different. I was pulled into the story easily and had to find out what was going on.
This is a new author for me and what a great way to be introduced. If this book is anything like the rest of work then I can't wait to discover more.
This is a new author for me and what a great way to be introduced. If this book is anything like the rest of work then I can't wait to discover more.
July 8, 2022
This unique Alice in wonderland retelling was definitely worth the read. Full of necromancers, magic, a detective, a mythical artifact and more this story really has it all. The plot was fascinating, the characters were unique, it was overall just a perfect retelling. I have only jaut discovered this wonderful author, and if all of her books are as good as this one, then I think i have found a new favorite author.
July 8, 2022
Evaline is an amazing character inspired to be like Sherlock Holmes one day. She ends up with an opportunity that was supposed to be taken care of by her Dad, but he refused. Evaline tool it into her own hands along with her Beau. They ended up in a mirror world of London. From there, the mystery begins! Such a good read!
July 8, 2022
This is the first book I have read by this author and i loved it. There was lots of mystery, tragedy, gross monsters that are not nice to deal with and a woman determined to help the mirror world become free. I look forward to continuing the story
July 6, 2022
Evaline receives a black clad stranger at her door. She follows the stranger into a very depressing dark mirror world. Dark, twisted take on Alice in Wonderland, and I loved every second of it.
July 24, 2022
This is my first-time reading SF Benson's work, and I was instantly curious while reading the synopsis I had several questions that drew my curiosity. Firstly, Evaline’s character being the daughter of occult archeologists and being a necromancer. Learning of the similarities yet differences between London and the mirror world Londinium was also interesting. Doctor Death and the mythical artifacts that could stop them.
London, January 1888. It is a time in which magic is common knowledge, but in order to practice freely, outside of your own home you must have a license. Even so not all have magical abilities which leads to many being against or having negative feelings towards those who practice it. Evaline starts out being desperate to reach out to her mother using her necromancer abilities, the sudden loss a year prior, left Evaline with no closure, all she had left was her mother’s journal that she had snuck out of her belongings when her father wasn’t looking. She shares her mother’s love of mysteries and feels the draw to solve even the most bizarre. Reading the journal one night looking for answers she comes across the notes of her parents last expedition in Egypt, when her mother was killed. They were on the hunt for a rare mythical relic, the Firestone, her mother journeyed into a cave believing the relic to be in there. Though she did not find the relic she instead found a mirror, “It wasn’t an ordinary looking glass, my dear. It was a gateway to another world.” Reading of the Firestone and then the strange woman visiting her father the next morning and mentioning the same relic, Evaline feels if her father won’t solve the mystery she will. Admiring Sherlock Holmes, she sets off for the woman when she leaves, often thinking to herself “What would Holmes do?” when she is unsure of the “right” thing to do next. Meanwhile, when Evaline and her beau find themselves suddenly in Londinium, an open world where magic is practice and used frequently in the open by those with it. A world in which magic is the least of worries, creatures of nightmares also exist, such as vampires and werewolves (untamable). Being out after night is highly dangerous and if out death is expected. In the search to find the Firestones location Evaline and her beau stumble across other mysteries including one involving the Madame Governor, the leader of Londinium. Which leaves them no choice but to be out after dark to hopefully get some answers.
The story was a slow start for me, learning the characters world, who they were. Though the more I read the more I was drawn to Evaline, personally feeling and agreeing with how she reacts to things. While the mystery became more in depth and sometimes leading to more questions about those around Evaline and her beau, I wanted to read faster to find answers. If you enjoy mystery with an underlying love story, then the world Ms. Benson creates in this book is sure to entertain.
London, January 1888. It is a time in which magic is common knowledge, but in order to practice freely, outside of your own home you must have a license. Even so not all have magical abilities which leads to many being against or having negative feelings towards those who practice it. Evaline starts out being desperate to reach out to her mother using her necromancer abilities, the sudden loss a year prior, left Evaline with no closure, all she had left was her mother’s journal that she had snuck out of her belongings when her father wasn’t looking. She shares her mother’s love of mysteries and feels the draw to solve even the most bizarre. Reading the journal one night looking for answers she comes across the notes of her parents last expedition in Egypt, when her mother was killed. They were on the hunt for a rare mythical relic, the Firestone, her mother journeyed into a cave believing the relic to be in there. Though she did not find the relic she instead found a mirror, “It wasn’t an ordinary looking glass, my dear. It was a gateway to another world.” Reading of the Firestone and then the strange woman visiting her father the next morning and mentioning the same relic, Evaline feels if her father won’t solve the mystery she will. Admiring Sherlock Holmes, she sets off for the woman when she leaves, often thinking to herself “What would Holmes do?” when she is unsure of the “right” thing to do next. Meanwhile, when Evaline and her beau find themselves suddenly in Londinium, an open world where magic is practice and used frequently in the open by those with it. A world in which magic is the least of worries, creatures of nightmares also exist, such as vampires and werewolves (untamable). Being out after night is highly dangerous and if out death is expected. In the search to find the Firestones location Evaline and her beau stumble across other mysteries including one involving the Madame Governor, the leader of Londinium. Which leaves them no choice but to be out after dark to hopefully get some answers.
The story was a slow start for me, learning the characters world, who they were. Though the more I read the more I was drawn to Evaline, personally feeling and agreeing with how she reacts to things. While the mystery became more in depth and sometimes leading to more questions about those around Evaline and her beau, I wanted to read faster to find answers. If you enjoy mystery with an underlying love story, then the world Ms. Benson creates in this book is sure to entertain.
July 28, 2022
Evaline Wainwright is the daughter of a well to do gentleman, who is also a practitioner of magic and Evaline has inherited this talent as well, although in London in 1888, this is frowned upon and can lead to a whole host of problems if it is discovered that you practice magic without a license and as a woman, Evaline is not likely to be able to procure one any time soon. As well as practitioners of magic, her parents are occult archeologists and have spent most of their lives researching into and finding artefacts of great power, that is until Evaline’s mother passed away and her father retired from the field because of it, but Evaline wishes to follow a similar path and become a great detective, but this is frowned upon as well.
As Evaline starts her day in the usual manner, she is about to start helping her father with some work when a strange woman clothed all in black with a severe countenance requests a meeting with him. Her father ushers Evaline out of the room so that the discussion can be held with privacy, however, Evaline cannot help herself and listens in. This is where she overhears the woman asking her father for help to retrieve an artefact which can not only save her world, but the one the mystery woman inhabits as well. This news of alternate worlds is news to Evaline, however, she just cannot resist a mystery and a chance to prove her skills, so when she overhears where the woman will be staying, she makes up her mind to go and speak to her herself, even though it is against the wishes of all those around her.
While all this is happening, Evaline is also trying to avoid an arranged marriage and spend time with her beau without the watchful eyes of her father and the staff whom he employs, however, when the two of them end up being transported to the mysterious world of Londinium by the mystery woman, the decision as to whether to investigate is taken out of their hands. As they learn more about their surroundings, Evaline and her beau realise that the sun never shines there, the weather and the purple are perpetually miserable and Doctor Death is the one pulling all the strings, but how does this all connect to the strange woman’s request of Evaline’s father?
This is a historical mystery which will keep you on the edge of your seat as you explore Londinium and solve the clues in this fast paced fantasy, with elements of Sherlock Holmes and the paranormal throughout.
As Evaline starts her day in the usual manner, she is about to start helping her father with some work when a strange woman clothed all in black with a severe countenance requests a meeting with him. Her father ushers Evaline out of the room so that the discussion can be held with privacy, however, Evaline cannot help herself and listens in. This is where she overhears the woman asking her father for help to retrieve an artefact which can not only save her world, but the one the mystery woman inhabits as well. This news of alternate worlds is news to Evaline, however, she just cannot resist a mystery and a chance to prove her skills, so when she overhears where the woman will be staying, she makes up her mind to go and speak to her herself, even though it is against the wishes of all those around her.
While all this is happening, Evaline is also trying to avoid an arranged marriage and spend time with her beau without the watchful eyes of her father and the staff whom he employs, however, when the two of them end up being transported to the mysterious world of Londinium by the mystery woman, the decision as to whether to investigate is taken out of their hands. As they learn more about their surroundings, Evaline and her beau realise that the sun never shines there, the weather and the purple are perpetually miserable and Doctor Death is the one pulling all the strings, but how does this all connect to the strange woman’s request of Evaline’s father?
This is a historical mystery which will keep you on the edge of your seat as you explore Londinium and solve the clues in this fast paced fantasy, with elements of Sherlock Holmes and the paranormal throughout.
July 27, 2022
When I started this book it seemed it might be another one of those just taking up space on my bookshelves kind of books. But as the story unfolds and each layer is peeled back you get a rather fascinating gem that made me gasp when it was over because I am dying to know what happens next.
Evaline just wants to be able to study the subjects she wants and to one day be a detective. Unfortunately, that all goes away after tragedy strikes her family. Now, her father, who doesn’t want her to practice her skills or become a detective, insists she learn more ladylike pursuits and marry the neighbor who is far too old to Evaline. Then a stranger approaches her father asking for help only he refuses but Evaline isn’t willing to let go without a fight especially with a bigger mystery on the horizon. Sucked into a different dimension to battle a deadly doctor and secure an artifact can’t be that difficult. However, no one seems forthcoming and everyone has their own agenda. They are all pawns in someone else’s game but just who will come out on top? Can Evaline solve the mystery in the mirror dimension and return to London?
This book is reminiscent of a history romance in how females are expected to behave and portray themselves. Overall it was a slow build up until the action unfolds and then it draws you in until the very last page. If you like quirky female characters solving mysteries and dealing in magic then this is for you. It reminded me of the Netflix movie Enola Holmes and I could picture that character in this novel for sure.
Evaline just wants to be able to study the subjects she wants and to one day be a detective. Unfortunately, that all goes away after tragedy strikes her family. Now, her father, who doesn’t want her to practice her skills or become a detective, insists she learn more ladylike pursuits and marry the neighbor who is far too old to Evaline. Then a stranger approaches her father asking for help only he refuses but Evaline isn’t willing to let go without a fight especially with a bigger mystery on the horizon. Sucked into a different dimension to battle a deadly doctor and secure an artifact can’t be that difficult. However, no one seems forthcoming and everyone has their own agenda. They are all pawns in someone else’s game but just who will come out on top? Can Evaline solve the mystery in the mirror dimension and return to London?
This book is reminiscent of a history romance in how females are expected to behave and portray themselves. Overall it was a slow build up until the action unfolds and then it draws you in until the very last page. If you like quirky female characters solving mysteries and dealing in magic then this is for you. It reminded me of the Netflix movie Enola Holmes and I could picture that character in this novel for sure.
July 19, 2022
Death & Mirrors by SF Benson is the first book of All Things Dark & Deadly. There's this main female character, her name is Evaline Wainwright, she is a necromancer, she has always wanted to be a detective just like Sherlock Holmes. Her father on the second has wanted her to be with a man from next door, she has no feelings for, what really happens with him? There is also this other man, is it love or is it because he's safe and she's known him forever? But this once in a lifetime opportunity falls into Evaline's hands, there's mirrors and another dimension the opposite of what she is used to, it all happens in a place called London. This particular mission has been dropped into Evaline's hands because a very mysterious woman comes calling on Evaline's father to come find and artifact, which he refuses so Evaline decides to take it into her own hands. But theres this Dr. Death that is taking peoples life's and if Evaline doesn't find this artifact to help take this evil out then everyone will be in jeopardy. This is where the story begins. To find out if Evaline finds the artifact and takes down Dr. Death if she has any help you need to read the book.
All in all I loved this book, I couldn't put it down. I just had to finish it. Its really like Alice in Wonderland, which I loved so of course I'd find this book fascinating. Thank you for writing the book. Hope more is to come.
All in all I loved this book, I couldn't put it down. I just had to finish it. Its really like Alice in Wonderland, which I loved so of course I'd find this book fascinating. Thank you for writing the book. Hope more is to come.
July 20, 2022
Death and Mirrors
All Things Dark and Deadly: Book 1
By: SF Benson
Review By: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars
Sherlock Holmes meets Alice in Wonderland in this delightful supernatural mystery! Evaline Wainwright just wants to be able to practice her magic and detective skills in peace and live in a world where she can marry for love. When her father, acclaimed occult archaeologist, pushes for a betrothal to their neighbor who is 10 years her senior, Evaline is less than pleased. Especially when a childhood friend Delbert catches her eye. Everything changes one night when a robed stranger begs her father for his help to find a mythical artifact of great power. Thirsting to prove herself as a detective, Evaline follows this stranger, farther than she ever thought possible. Into the Mirror World where she learns of the hideous creature by the name of Doctor Death and the danger both their worlds are in!
This book was so much fun! I will be looking for the next book in the series ASAP! The mix of magic and detective skills made the story so engaging. The characters are well written and relatable. Evie and Delbert’s relationship is so genuine you can't help but smile at how supportive they are with each other's dreams. The whole story just has a really great voice and tone. The narrative is emotionally gripping, suspenseful, fast-paced, and wonderfully whimsical! Everything you want in a mystery and then some! I highly recommend this book!
All Things Dark and Deadly: Book 1
By: SF Benson
Review By: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars
Sherlock Holmes meets Alice in Wonderland in this delightful supernatural mystery! Evaline Wainwright just wants to be able to practice her magic and detective skills in peace and live in a world where she can marry for love. When her father, acclaimed occult archaeologist, pushes for a betrothal to their neighbor who is 10 years her senior, Evaline is less than pleased. Especially when a childhood friend Delbert catches her eye. Everything changes one night when a robed stranger begs her father for his help to find a mythical artifact of great power. Thirsting to prove herself as a detective, Evaline follows this stranger, farther than she ever thought possible. Into the Mirror World where she learns of the hideous creature by the name of Doctor Death and the danger both their worlds are in!
This book was so much fun! I will be looking for the next book in the series ASAP! The mix of magic and detective skills made the story so engaging. The characters are well written and relatable. Evie and Delbert’s relationship is so genuine you can't help but smile at how supportive they are with each other's dreams. The whole story just has a really great voice and tone. The narrative is emotionally gripping, suspenseful, fast-paced, and wonderfully whimsical! Everything you want in a mystery and then some! I highly recommend this book!
July 24, 2022
This is my first book that was written by the author S.F. Benson, and I cannot wait to read more of her writing! The book is definitely a unique and peculiar twist/retelling of Alice in Wonderland, just with witches, magic, and necromancy with hint of Sherlock Holmes! Who would not love fantasy, magic and detective work all in one book?! Death & Mirrors is a fascinating story with paranormal elements, magic, family issues, mysteries that need a detective, and also some romance. Setting takes place in the late 1800s in London, as well as the corresponding mirror world Londinium (which is also known as ancient London roughly 40AD). The main character Evaline is a necromancer and an aspired detective who wishes to apprentice under the great Sherlock Holmes. She is whisked away to help solve a mystery about a creature/person who was given the name Doctor Death as well as the task of finding a myth of a gem called the Firestone, which she will need in order to defeat this monster. I love the litter easter eggs from Alice in Wonderland, for example, Evaline falls through to a mirror world that is very different but also very much alike her world, just like Alice fell down a rabbit hole to Wonderland. I thoroughly enjoyed Evaline's character dynamics as she is headstrong, outspoken and very curious. The book does end on a cliffhanger, so I cannot wait until book two is released!
July 27, 2022
Evaline is a necromancer who sees herself as a future detective. She looks up to Sherlock Holmes and wants to follow in his footsteps. Life has other plans for her. Being a woman in the late 1800s, she doesn’t have many rights. Her father has arranged a marriage to a man she does not like at all. Everything she wants to do is frowned upon, even her magical abilities.
A woman, named Nerezza, shows up seeking help from Evaline’s father. A creature called Dr. Death is wreaking havoc upon her world and there is an artifact she thinks can stop the creature. Unfortunately after the death of his wife, he stepped back in his normal job for unearthing valuable artifacts. Evaline’s interest is piqued and she decides to follow the woman and offer her help.
Nerezza decides to take advantage of Evaline’s offer and flings her into her own world which is a mirror version of London. Evaline has to use her wits and magic to help find this artifact and Dr. Death.
Someone else said that this is like Alice in Wonderland meets Sherlock Holmes and I completely agree with that statement. It was exciting and mysterious and kept me on the edge of my seat. Ending on a cliffhanger, I cannot wait for the second book of the series!
A woman, named Nerezza, shows up seeking help from Evaline’s father. A creature called Dr. Death is wreaking havoc upon her world and there is an artifact she thinks can stop the creature. Unfortunately after the death of his wife, he stepped back in his normal job for unearthing valuable artifacts. Evaline’s interest is piqued and she decides to follow the woman and offer her help.
Nerezza decides to take advantage of Evaline’s offer and flings her into her own world which is a mirror version of London. Evaline has to use her wits and magic to help find this artifact and Dr. Death.
Someone else said that this is like Alice in Wonderland meets Sherlock Holmes and I completely agree with that statement. It was exciting and mysterious and kept me on the edge of my seat. Ending on a cliffhanger, I cannot wait for the second book of the series!
July 6, 2022
Holy Cow! What an incredible book. Evaline, still mourning the loss of her mother, works for her father as his secretary but she dreams of working with Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. She aspires to be a great detective and to use her skills and abilities as a witch to help solve cases. As far as she knows, Evaline is only a necromancer, meaning she can bring back the dead and she does just that during her adventure in the mirror world of London called Londinium. Evaline and her betrothed Delbert are whisked away to the mirror world to help find an artifact and stop Doctor Death from her reign of death and destruction before it is too late, and Death comes to proper London. While in Londinium, they come across the strangest and scariest of beings including witches and undead people. What will happen to them? Will they be able to return to London or forever be stuck in the mirror world? You must read this book! The characters are very well written and full of life and personality. The suspense builds up as the pages turn and I found myself unable to put the book down! I am so excited to read what happens in the next book as Evaline and Delbert continue on their adventure!
July 21, 2022
If you are a fan of the following pick up this book now. Magic, Historical Fiction, Fantasy and of course a quest.
I loved this book from the first page and I hope you will to Lets Discuss...
In this book we find ourselves in London England in 1888. We meet Evaline our main character. She is untrained in magic, but does her best to summon her mothers shade who she misses dearly. Accidentily summoning her mothers shade is how our story begins.
After that Evaline uses her mothers journal to follow the clues to see if she can figure out what happened to her and if she can reverse it. We travel with Evaline as she faces the challenges of an unsupportive and scared father, and many other challenges that I don't want to spoil for you. (so do yourself a favor in read this awesome book.)
Along her journey she meets Delbert, a wannabe detective, The Governor, Mr. Culpepper and many other characters that keeps this story funny, fast paced and very interesting from start to finish.
WARNING: THIS STORY DOES END ON A CLIFFHANGER SO YOU WILL WANT TO PICK ITS SEQUEL UP, DEATH & SHADOWS: A: THINGS DARK & DEADLY. BOOK 2, AS SOON AS YOUR FINISHED WITH BOOK 1. ENJOY!
I loved this book from the first page and I hope you will to Lets Discuss...
In this book we find ourselves in London England in 1888. We meet Evaline our main character. She is untrained in magic, but does her best to summon her mothers shade who she misses dearly. Accidentily summoning her mothers shade is how our story begins.
After that Evaline uses her mothers journal to follow the clues to see if she can figure out what happened to her and if she can reverse it. We travel with Evaline as she faces the challenges of an unsupportive and scared father, and many other challenges that I don't want to spoil for you. (so do yourself a favor in read this awesome book.)
Along her journey she meets Delbert, a wannabe detective, The Governor, Mr. Culpepper and many other characters that keeps this story funny, fast paced and very interesting from start to finish.
WARNING: THIS STORY DOES END ON A CLIFFHANGER SO YOU WILL WANT TO PICK ITS SEQUEL UP, DEATH & SHADOWS: A: THINGS DARK & DEADLY. BOOK 2, AS SOON AS YOUR FINISHED WITH BOOK 1. ENJOY!
July 21, 2022
Death & Mirrors is the first book in the All Things Dark & Deadly series. It's a captivating fantasy story full of magic and mystery. References to Alice in Wonderland and Sherlock Holmes indicate that these are significant influences on the book, and it shows!
Evaline is grieving her mother, and trying to piece together the archaeological expedition that led to her mysterious death. She's also coming of age, and coming into her full powers, without the guidance and support of her mother.
There's plenty of great world building here, with both a sort of historical urban fantasy setting and the weird and dangerous mirror world. Both settings are engaging and immersive, with details that bring them to life.
This book will appeal to fans of fantasy mysteries and Victorian/Edwardian settings. If you're someone who goes for every "dark re-imagining of Alice in Wonderland" you can get your hands on (which I totally am I even went to the theatre last week to see one!) you will love this book! It gets five stars from me.
Evaline is grieving her mother, and trying to piece together the archaeological expedition that led to her mysterious death. She's also coming of age, and coming into her full powers, without the guidance and support of her mother.
There's plenty of great world building here, with both a sort of historical urban fantasy setting and the weird and dangerous mirror world. Both settings are engaging and immersive, with details that bring them to life.
This book will appeal to fans of fantasy mysteries and Victorian/Edwardian settings. If you're someone who goes for every "dark re-imagining of Alice in Wonderland" you can get your hands on (which I totally am I even went to the theatre last week to see one!) you will love this book! It gets five stars from me.
July 24, 2022
I do enjoy a good mystery novel, and I thoroughly enjoyed the paranormal and magical aspect that this one introduced. The beginning of the novel, we learn of Evaline is a necromancer, and the daughter of an important man, one who only wants to keep him and his daughter safe, and ensure that she will be taken care of in the manner she has become used to. Little does he know, she has ore of an interest in making a difference and helping people, than she does staying safe and being a 'proper' lady.
This rabbit hole was one that brought great entertainment to this reader, the character development and world building was extremely well done, and there were a few different side story lines to the main plot that brought on laughter, gasps, and applause for how strong a female lead she is. Of course, being the first installment, the end of this leaves many questions, and I for one, am very excited to follow Evaline and Del wherever their narrative may take them. Don't hesitate to pick this gem up!
This rabbit hole was one that brought great entertainment to this reader, the character development and world building was extremely well done, and there were a few different side story lines to the main plot that brought on laughter, gasps, and applause for how strong a female lead she is. Of course, being the first installment, the end of this leaves many questions, and I for one, am very excited to follow Evaline and Del wherever their narrative may take them. Don't hesitate to pick this gem up!
July 7, 2022
This was a really entertaining and enjoyable young adult fantasy. The author does a great job with the character and the world building. It is a story that really grips the reader and drags them down into an alternative world where all is not what it seems.
I really love Evaline's character. She is a very determined young woman who is set on her goals of becoming a detective even though everyone is against the idea she pushes on and doesn't stop. When her father turns down a chance to solve a mystery to find an ancient artifact Evaline decides to accept the mission. This leads her into an alternate world where past curses and magic await to test her. With the help of her friend and love Delbert can she solve the mystery and find the ancient artefact? Can she stop the destruction of this alternate world before it affects her world? Or will the curses that are on her family prove too much for her to overcome?
I really love Evaline's character. She is a very determined young woman who is set on her goals of becoming a detective even though everyone is against the idea she pushes on and doesn't stop. When her father turns down a chance to solve a mystery to find an ancient artifact Evaline decides to accept the mission. This leads her into an alternate world where past curses and magic await to test her. With the help of her friend and love Delbert can she solve the mystery and find the ancient artefact? Can she stop the destruction of this alternate world before it affects her world? Or will the curses that are on her family prove too much for her to overcome?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2022
Evaline is a necromancer and the daughter of an important man, who I felt was controlling to keep both him and her safe. But Evaline has different plans, she was set on helping others and making a difference in life, that she was finding herself in some interesting situations. This rabbit hole of a book I fell in love while reading just kept me wanting more and more of what was going to happen. I found the character development was done extremely well, and the back stories that go with it was just as entraining. Along with the world building in this book it really made me feel like I could imagine with detail what it was like.
This amazing mystery, paranormal and magical, with artifacts and ancient things is amazing and something I thoroughly enjoy reading about. This book kept me in my toes and wanting to read more and not put it down. It was really well written and thought out, it’s a must read.
This amazing mystery, paranormal and magical, with artifacts and ancient things is amazing and something I thoroughly enjoy reading about. This book kept me in my toes and wanting to read more and not put it down. It was really well written and thought out, it’s a must read.
July 12, 2022
A lot of reviews have compared this book to Alice in Wonderland and it made me iffy about giving this book a try...I loved the books in the Wonderland series and I'm always wary about giving "retellings" and "spinoffs" a try. However I did give this book an honest try and I don't regret it. I personally wouldn't compare this incredible book too much to Alice in Wonderland. Besides one major similarity in "Alice Through the Looking Glass" where the protagonist goes through a mirror to another world, there really aren't any other comparisons for the two books. The author has created a unique world and amazing characters in that world. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I cannot wait for the next one to come out...hopefully the questions I have, will be answered!!
I received a copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 20, 2022
This book is downright amazing, I wish I could give it more than 5 stars! I devoured it in a matter of hours, and it still felt like I couldn’t read fast enough! Evaline is a necromancer who loves a good mystery. She is also a very strong female lead which is very refreshing. Her father is stricter than Evaline can accept and only sees her as a future wife to someone of his choice. This is obviously not Evaline’s wishes so she takes matters into her own hands. She finds herself and her wonderful beacon, Delbert, transported to a mirror world called Londinium. They both instantly feel the danger and urgency to solve the mysterious killings by an entity known as Doctor Death. Will they be able to return to their world unharmed or will Londinium be their new, dark home? I cannot wait until Book 2 of this series! It is one I will be waiting for at the edge of my seat!
July 22, 2022
Never more have I wanted to fall down a rabbit hole or jump through a mirror! Branson brought this fantasy story to life in ways no one else could! This strange world that is introduced vividly stuck with me as I read through. Each chapter brought a new element of excitement with the unknown of what is next. Gaslight fantasy is very new to me, however it makes for a very interesting read.
Evaline was a great MC and her plight to prove herself and live her life as she chooses made me fall in love with her character all the much more. As she explores in this unknown place trying to help take down Doctor Death you see her in her element. Every character introduced and encountered along the way bright such life to the story. The mix of magic, mystery, and suspense made it difficult to even attempt putting the book down.
Evaline was a great MC and her plight to prove herself and live her life as she chooses made me fall in love with her character all the much more. As she explores in this unknown place trying to help take down Doctor Death you see her in her element. Every character introduced and encountered along the way bright such life to the story. The mix of magic, mystery, and suspense made it difficult to even attempt putting the book down.
July 28, 2022
This book was a great start to this series! While I have never read anything by this author, I was interested in picking up this book based on its description-- "a darker, grittier Alice in Wonderland" and I was not disappointed. This fantasy story includes everything you might be looking for -- a mirror world, magic, family, loss, danger, adventure, and more! The main character, Evaline, has hopes of becoming a detective but due to a recent tragedy, her father has hopes of her marrying their (older) neighbor. When a stranger asks the family for help, Evaline finds her chance to follow her dreams. Her adventure begins as she is sucked into a different dimension to battle a doctor of death with a goal to stop him from reaching London. The beginning was a bit slow but once the action began, I could not put this down. I am looking forward to reading more in the series.
July 19, 2022
This was a beautiful blend of Alice in Wonderland with necromancy, magick, and darkness. The mystery that is being solved is so intriguing and really kept me on the edge of my seat- I could NOT put this book down. I LOVE Evalines character- she has so much strength and girl power. The idea of the mirror world isn’t new but the authors writing and the characters trials throughout give it a fresh take. Also- name a better villain name then Dr. Death. So many elements of this book were perfectly executed- the interactions of the characters with Evaline, her detective work, the magick, the artifact, the writing- it was all good to be honest! There were times I couldn’t figure out where the story was going to go- and that suspense is my favorite! Definitely give this one a read. 💖
July 28, 2022
This book first transported me back in time to London in the late 1800's, and then it transported me into a mirror world! I am a big fan of fantasy and mystery, which made delving into this book and discovering new worlds so much fun.
I highly enjoyed Evaline's strong-willed personality, her independence, and her tenacity! I cannot imagine being a woman in her time with all of the societal pressures and what a "woman's rightfully place" is. She handled it with spunk and never stopped being true to herself.
This book brought in so many elements of classic stories (Jack the Ripper, Sherlock Holmes, etc) and spun them into one with magic and mystery and mayhem. Definitely a worthwhile fantasy read and I am excited to see where the story goes from here!
I highly enjoyed Evaline's strong-willed personality, her independence, and her tenacity! I cannot imagine being a woman in her time with all of the societal pressures and what a "woman's rightfully place" is. She handled it with spunk and never stopped being true to herself.
This book brought in so many elements of classic stories (Jack the Ripper, Sherlock Holmes, etc) and spun them into one with magic and mystery and mayhem. Definitely a worthwhile fantasy read and I am excited to see where the story goes from here!
July 28, 2022
5/5 Stars
Death & Mirrors (All Things Dark & Deadly #1) by S.F. Benson
This is the first book I've read by the author. Death & Mirrors is a fantastic read. I had a hard time putting this book down. I'm looking forward to the next book. This is the first book in the All Things Dark & Deadly Series.
Evaline is a necromancer and is trying to bring her mother's ghost forward. She feels like she didn't get a proper goodbye. Her father doesn't approve of the magic use. Then something happens and Evaline knows the only thing that can stop it. The quote I chose for Evaline is: “No. I can take care of it myself. Were you or maybe Mr. Pemberton on the steps earlier?”
Highly recommended for Paranormal Fantasy lovers.
Death & Mirrors (All Things Dark & Deadly #1) by S.F. Benson
This is the first book I've read by the author. Death & Mirrors is a fantastic read. I had a hard time putting this book down. I'm looking forward to the next book. This is the first book in the All Things Dark & Deadly Series.
Evaline is a necromancer and is trying to bring her mother's ghost forward. She feels like she didn't get a proper goodbye. Her father doesn't approve of the magic use. Then something happens and Evaline knows the only thing that can stop it. The quote I chose for Evaline is: “No. I can take care of it myself. Were you or maybe Mr. Pemberton on the steps earlier?”
Highly recommended for Paranormal Fantasy lovers.
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