This deep dive into the grungy depths of late 19th century London will keep you on the edge of your seat and wanting more.
About the Book
London, 1891.
Deliveries. Opium. Regret. The only three things twenty-one-year-old Gabriel Ashmore’s life consists of until four murder victims are found in the increasingly criminal city, all marked with the same black veins. Gabriel is connected to all four. He delivered Erebus to them, a new opium variant on the market, after being forced to provide for his family following the brutal death of his mother four years ago.
Fearing his involuntary part in the murders, he becomes embroiled in an amateur investigation led by the wealthy aspiring detective Alexander Wakefield, supported by the Leader of the Opposition, Lord Benedict Granville.
However, when they witness the fifth death, they realise nothing is as it seems in the city of veils and shadows. Truths become twisted, secrets are revealed and it soon becomes clear they are not dealing with a single killer, but the greatest criminal plot London has ever seen.
‘A darkly enchanting and engrossing read – kept me hooked from start to finish.’ James Brogden, critically acclaimed author of Bone Harvest
My Thoughts
This debut novel is fantastic and reads like a seasoned author. I got gritty, noir Sherlock vibes and loved every minute. The relationship between the grumpy Gabriel and the enthusiastic, ambitious Alexander was amazing. And just like in Sherlock, I totally shipped them – even if they both said they weren’t homosexuals. I don’t know if it was intentional, but I swear you could cut the tension with a knife.
Descriptive language is a huge strength for the author. The novel was hugely atmospheric, putting me right in the action, especially wonderful for a mystery/thriller. The heart-pounding, danger at time was exhilarating with the atmospheric feel. And while I’ve never been in an opium den, I now feel like I have.
The plot kept me on my toes. I kept thinking I’d figured it out, but then a new twist would present itself. Nothing was certain until the end, and even then, the author left a few niggling doubts. I absolutely will keep an eye out, and I really hope to see a follow-up to this book some day. Alexander and Gabriel make a wonderful team and I’d love to see more of them.
I am grateful to the author and Love Books Tours for including me on this tour, and it did not impact my review of the book.
Who’s It For?
Those who love a great mystery and atmospheric reads will love this book. If you’re a fan of Sherlock Holmes or Inspector Morse (or the newer prequel series Endeavour), you’ll love this book. It’s grittier, like the newer versions of Sherlock, but it the relationship between the characters is very reminiscent of Watson and Holmes.
Content Warning: Drug Use, Graphic Death, Graphic Violence, Animal Abuse, Child Death, Dementia, Parent Death
About the Author
Miray Kose is a crime fiction writer studying Law at Durham University. She was born in Belgium and now lives in England. She enjoys travelling and is a great lover of history. Game of Iniquity is her debut novel.
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