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Lizzie Martin #1
Un intérêt particulier pour les morts
Nous sommes en 1864 et Lizzie Martin accepte un poste de dame de compagnie à Londres auprès d’une riche veuve qui est aussi une propriétaire de taudis. Lizzie est intriguée d'apprendre que la précédente dame de compagnie a disparu, apparemment après s’être enfuie avec un inconnu. Mais quand le corps de la jeune fille est retrouvée dans les décombres de l'un des bidonvilles démolis récemment autour de la nouvelle gare de St Pancras, Lizzie commence à se demander ce qui s'est passé. Elle renoue avec un ami d'enfance, devenu l’inspecteur Benjamin Ross, et commence à enquêter avec son aide, au péril de sa vie, pour découvrir la vérité sur la mort de la jeune fille dont le sort semble étroitement lié au sien.
378 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2006
227 people are currently reading
2031 people want to read
About the author
Ann Granger
75 books297 followersAnn Granger (born 1939) has worked in British embassies in various parts of the world. She met her husband, who was also working for the British Embassy, in Prague and together they received postings to places as far apart as Munich and Lusaka. They are now permanently based in Oxfordshire.
Her first novels were historical romances published under the nom de plume Ann Hulme.
Her first novels were historical romances published under the nom de plume Ann Hulme.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews
July 9, 2025
If Sandra Brown’s novels had been set in Victorian England …
Upon the death of her father, Lizzie Martin found herself quite penniless. Necessity spoke and Ms Martin was happy to accept a situation as a lady's companion to her late godfather’s widow, Julia Parry. Immediately upon her arrival in the intimidating city of London, the odd events begin to accumulate. Ms Martin witnesses the transport of a newly deceased body to the morgue and also quickly discovers that her predecessor in Mrs. Parry’s employ left the house under, well, we’ll call it unusual circumstances. In these kinds of mysteries, the oft-repeated Sherlock Holmes aphorism, “The game is afoot” applies and Ms Martin soon finds herself up to her neck in the investigation of her predecessor’s disappearance.
THE COMPANION is a thoroughly enjoyable character driven historical mystery and romance that pushes on the boundaries of what one would characterize as slightly less than cozy without ever venturing into the realities of violence, sex, or profanity. Murder, deaths, danger and post mortems, for example, are completely real but never fully revealed by pulling aside the narrative curtains behind which they take place. The personalities of the household above stairs and the staff below stairs are brilliantly described and they very much come to life in Ms Granger’s skilled hands. Ms Martin’s courageous and forthright ability to deal with the blunt misogyny that she encounters from all of the men around her, not to mention the irritating and outrageously sanctimonious religious preaching of Dr Tibbett, an erstwhile assistant curate and schoolmaster, is wonderfully entertaining and uplifting.
Quick, fun, and easy reading, THE COMPANION is the debut appearance of Lizzie Martin in a series. A MORTAL CURIOSITY, the second novel in the series, is a definite addition to my reading list.
Paul Weiss
Upon the death of her father, Lizzie Martin found herself quite penniless. Necessity spoke and Ms Martin was happy to accept a situation as a lady's companion to her late godfather’s widow, Julia Parry. Immediately upon her arrival in the intimidating city of London, the odd events begin to accumulate. Ms Martin witnesses the transport of a newly deceased body to the morgue and also quickly discovers that her predecessor in Mrs. Parry’s employ left the house under, well, we’ll call it unusual circumstances. In these kinds of mysteries, the oft-repeated Sherlock Holmes aphorism, “The game is afoot” applies and Ms Martin soon finds herself up to her neck in the investigation of her predecessor’s disappearance.
THE COMPANION is a thoroughly enjoyable character driven historical mystery and romance that pushes on the boundaries of what one would characterize as slightly less than cozy without ever venturing into the realities of violence, sex, or profanity. Murder, deaths, danger and post mortems, for example, are completely real but never fully revealed by pulling aside the narrative curtains behind which they take place. The personalities of the household above stairs and the staff below stairs are brilliantly described and they very much come to life in Ms Granger’s skilled hands. Ms Martin’s courageous and forthright ability to deal with the blunt misogyny that she encounters from all of the men around her, not to mention the irritating and outrageously sanctimonious religious preaching of Dr Tibbett, an erstwhile assistant curate and schoolmaster, is wonderfully entertaining and uplifting.
Quick, fun, and easy reading, THE COMPANION is the debut appearance of Lizzie Martin in a series. A MORTAL CURIOSITY, the second novel in the series, is a definite addition to my reading list.
Paul Weiss
November 5, 2010
I liked this book very much. The writing is excellent and interesting, and carries one along briskly in its examination of 19th Century London and an unusual case of murder. What I liked best was that it is intelligent and gripping WITHOUT A BIT OF PROFANITY OR GRAPHIC SEX SCENES!
Lizzy Martin, a country doctor's daughter, finds herself impoverished upon her father's death. But her godfather's widow, Aunt Perry, invites Lizzy to come to London as her paid companion. The former companion had suddenly disappeared 2 months ago, but her recently dead body is only today found in a slum apartment being torn down to make way for a new railway station. Why did the young woman disappear? Was she forced to write her much-too-late resignation letter? And why does the London police inspector instantly recognize Lizzy on her first day in the great city?
Lizzy is a sharp, intelligent, attractive 29 year-old, who too-often speaks out when she should not, and feels a bit pressured by being forced into "a woman's place" in the world. The morals and manners of Edwardian London are well portrayed. A most enjoyable read!
Lizzy Martin, a country doctor's daughter, finds herself impoverished upon her father's death. But her godfather's widow, Aunt Perry, invites Lizzy to come to London as her paid companion. The former companion had suddenly disappeared 2 months ago, but her recently dead body is only today found in a slum apartment being torn down to make way for a new railway station. Why did the young woman disappear? Was she forced to write her much-too-late resignation letter? And why does the London police inspector instantly recognize Lizzy on her first day in the great city?
Lizzy is a sharp, intelligent, attractive 29 year-old, who too-often speaks out when she should not, and feels a bit pressured by being forced into "a woman's place" in the world. The morals and manners of Edwardian London are well portrayed. A most enjoyable read!
April 8, 2022
The first in a Victorian murder mystery series about Lizzie Martin. The daughter of a Dr who goes to live as a companion to her "Aunt". The previous companion has run off and the mystery begins. The writing captures the feel and describes the era when many new buildings and machines are being built. The mystery is good, and I did not figure who did it (ok, I often don't figure it out) but the clues were well laid out. I plan to read the next in the series. The romance was on the tepid side. I rate it 3.5*
June 15, 2020
Reviewed for Books and livres
OK, I'm not that lazy, here's my review :
So, I started it yesterday, to cleanse my palate after reading Mansfield Park and before moving on to Northanger abbey. I wanted something light, fun and victorian if possible.
My first impression of the novel was that it was to be a 3 stars read. It's obvious the author has made her researches about that era (circa 1864 and the following years), but I felt the bare facts were fed to us through fiction : the fiction wasn't the main point, the details were, and they were coated with fiction to have us swallow them. The flashbacks and presentation of the present felt gauche.
Then, the coincidences : one coincidence : why not ; two coincidences : mmmm... ; three or more : nah. As I found on line : "The last half of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth saw continued strong growth, in some ways replicating and reinforcing the pattern set in preceding decades. The over three million people living in Greater London in 1861 more than doubled to become over seven million by the 1910s". So, one person meeting other people related in some way to her in that much populated an area ? Nah. I read it some time ago in another novel ("H" by Sarah Burton) and don't care much about several coincidences.
Then I kept reading anyway and even if I found the point of view to be very XXth, XXIst century centered (what I mean is post XIXth century, a novelist of that era wouldn't have necessarily written that) on social and/or feminist subjects, it was still enjoyable, the more I read, the more I liked. I didn't care much about the mystery itself, yet I liked reading about Lizzie and her adventures. There was a teensy itsy bit of romance, but I think it's to be expected in that kind of books ? Yet it wasn't the major part. So, the more I read, the more I dived in the story.
This is the first instalment of the series. I never read Ann Granger before, but I heard much good about her. Am I eager to read the next book ? Not that in a hurry. Am I dismissing reading the next book ? No. I'll probably like it. If I need an easy, light, comforting read about Victorian era in between classics, I'll certainly read the next (the series might get even better ?), which is why I rated it 3.5 stars and not 3 stars. 3 stars = I won't probably read another one even if it was nice. 3.5 = I'll make the effort, and it won't be that much of an effort. So, not the best read, but an entertaining read.
If you want to read victorian novels, want to get acquainted with the way people lived back then, I think this is a very good way to start. I don't remember who recommended it to me (saw it on Booktube, but then I caught up recently on a whole month of videos, so I don't remember who), but thank you :)
OK, I'm not that lazy, here's my review :
So, I started it yesterday, to cleanse my palate after reading Mansfield Park and before moving on to Northanger abbey. I wanted something light, fun and victorian if possible.
My first impression of the novel was that it was to be a 3 stars read. It's obvious the author has made her researches about that era (circa 1864 and the following years), but I felt the bare facts were fed to us through fiction : the fiction wasn't the main point, the details were, and they were coated with fiction to have us swallow them. The flashbacks and presentation of the present felt gauche.
Then, the coincidences : one coincidence : why not ; two coincidences : mmmm... ; three or more : nah. As I found on line : "The last half of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth saw continued strong growth, in some ways replicating and reinforcing the pattern set in preceding decades. The over three million people living in Greater London in 1861 more than doubled to become over seven million by the 1910s". So, one person meeting other people related in some way to her in that much populated an area ? Nah. I read it some time ago in another novel ("H" by Sarah Burton) and don't care much about several coincidences.
Then I kept reading anyway and even if I found the point of view to be very XXth, XXIst century centered (what I mean is post XIXth century, a novelist of that era wouldn't have necessarily written that) on social and/or feminist subjects, it was still enjoyable, the more I read, the more I liked. I didn't care much about the mystery itself, yet I liked reading about Lizzie and her adventures. There was a teensy itsy bit of romance, but I think it's to be expected in that kind of books ? Yet it wasn't the major part. So, the more I read, the more I dived in the story.
This is the first instalment of the series. I never read Ann Granger before, but I heard much good about her. Am I eager to read the next book ? Not that in a hurry. Am I dismissing reading the next book ? No. I'll probably like it. If I need an easy, light, comforting read about Victorian era in between classics, I'll certainly read the next (the series might get even better ?), which is why I rated it 3.5 stars and not 3 stars. 3 stars = I won't probably read another one even if it was nice. 3.5 = I'll make the effort, and it won't be that much of an effort. So, not the best read, but an entertaining read.
If you want to read victorian novels, want to get acquainted with the way people lived back then, I think this is a very good way to start. I don't remember who recommended it to me (saw it on Booktube, but then I caught up recently on a whole month of videos, so I don't remember who), but thank you :)
March 22, 2019
I'm not sure what it was with this book. Page after page of words, but nothing was happening, nothing was interesting, and the mystery progressed at a snail's pace. Dialogue was rambling and served no purpose for large chunks of the book. I ended up skimming to the end and couldn't care less what happened. I'll stick to Victorian historical fic by the greats like Mimi Matthews and Deanna Raybourn, who keep a story's pace much better.
October 30, 2015
J'ai vraiment bien aimé. Peut-être un chouya trop descriptif au début... Mais on s'attache à Lizzie Martin... Et à Ben Ross ^^
Une enquête assez basique sinon... Mais c'est un tome de présentation. Et je vais de ce pas enchaîner avec le tome 2 ^^
Une enquête assez basique sinon... Mais c'est un tome de présentation. Et je vais de ce pas enchaîner avec le tome 2 ^^
September 12, 2024
4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this!
If you enjoy historical fiction and the crime genre, it would be hard to go wrong with this book. A friend here recommended it (thanks Lisa!) and I have a feeling I’ll be reading much more from this author.
Lizzie Martin is a single woman in Victorian England. Her circumstances have recently changed and she needs a job and a home. She finds both when a family friend suddenly finds herself in need of a (live-in) personal companion. She soon learns why her new mistress needs a new companion, and the story follows on from there.
I really like the main character in this, and I’m looking forward to seeing where her story goes from here. I don’t want to throw any spoilers but it seems that another character will recur too, and I’m glad because I enjoy that person also. I read mystery series mainly for the characters and setting and less often for the crime and solving the mystery.
I enjoyed the way the author places us in Victorian England. You’ll see many details which don’t feel like part of a novel. They feel real and true to the time and place. They gave me that cozy British crime feeling I enjoy. This series is very low on violence and the sex is nonexistent, both of which I appreciate, and which add to the cozy feeling.
This novel isn’t a thriller. It’s better for a mood in which you feel like picking up a classic. If you enjoy historical fiction and good characterization with period detail, you’d probably enjoy this.
Ann Granger is a new author to me, but I’m so glad I found her, especially since she is pretty prolific! Lisa read this whole series and really enjoyed it, so I’ve already picked up the second book in the series from the library.
I really enjoyed the audio performance as well. If you’re an Audible Plus member, you may find many of this author’s works available for free as part of the Plus collection (including this one, which, for me, was not available from Hoopla, even though the rest of the series seems to be).
If you enjoy historical fiction and the crime genre, it would be hard to go wrong with this book. A friend here recommended it (thanks Lisa!) and I have a feeling I’ll be reading much more from this author.
Lizzie Martin is a single woman in Victorian England. Her circumstances have recently changed and she needs a job and a home. She finds both when a family friend suddenly finds herself in need of a (live-in) personal companion. She soon learns why her new mistress needs a new companion, and the story follows on from there.
I really like the main character in this, and I’m looking forward to seeing where her story goes from here. I don’t want to throw any spoilers but it seems that another character will recur too, and I’m glad because I enjoy that person also. I read mystery series mainly for the characters and setting and less often for the crime and solving the mystery.
I enjoyed the way the author places us in Victorian England. You’ll see many details which don’t feel like part of a novel. They feel real and true to the time and place. They gave me that cozy British crime feeling I enjoy. This series is very low on violence and the sex is nonexistent, both of which I appreciate, and which add to the cozy feeling.
This novel isn’t a thriller. It’s better for a mood in which you feel like picking up a classic. If you enjoy historical fiction and good characterization with period detail, you’d probably enjoy this.
Ann Granger is a new author to me, but I’m so glad I found her, especially since she is pretty prolific! Lisa read this whole series and really enjoyed it, so I’ve already picked up the second book in the series from the library.
I really enjoyed the audio performance as well. If you’re an Audible Plus member, you may find many of this author’s works available for free as part of the Plus collection (including this one, which, for me, was not available from Hoopla, even though the rest of the series seems to be).
November 18, 2016
J'attendais beaucoup de livre et je n'étais pas été déçue. Tous les éléments étaient réunis pour me plaire: Londres, l'ère victorienne, un meurtre, un duo d'enquêteurs attachante, une écriture légère et entraînante...
Je recommandrais sans hésiter ce livre à qui souhaite lire une histoire divertissante et facile à lire.
Et avoir eu le privilège de lire cette première aventure de Lizzie Martin à Londres a quelques mètres d'un des principaux lieux de l'histoire, le quartier disparu d'Agar Town, devenu la gare de King's Cross, restera toujours un moment spécial à mes yeux.
Je recommandrais sans hésiter ce livre à qui souhaite lire une histoire divertissante et facile à lire.
Et avoir eu le privilège de lire cette première aventure de Lizzie Martin à Londres a quelques mètres d'un des principaux lieux de l'histoire, le quartier disparu d'Agar Town, devenu la gare de King's Cross, restera toujours un moment spécial à mes yeux.
March 22, 2015
Elizabeth Martin has just arrived in London from the coal fields of Derbyshire to be a companion to her godfather's widow. Elizabeth isn't used to the hustle and bustle of the city, which is extra loud due to construction on the new St. Pancras railroad station. No sooner is Elizabeth on the way to her new home when her cab is held up in traffic by a cart carrying a dead body. Being a doctor's daughter and nearly 20 years of age, Elizabeth is not squeamish and wants to know the particulars. All any one knows is that the body is of an unfortunate young woman found underneath one of the homes that was demolished to make way for the railroad station. Ben Ross has made it to Inspector in the metropolitan police force and he's convinced the young woman that was found was murdered. He's determined to see justice done even if it means stepping on the toes of the railway company and the elite shareholders. Elizabeth finds her new situation difficult, with her aunt demanding her attention all day; her aunt's nephew coming in drunk at all hours and a pompous clergyman who won't shut up about improper behavior. Elizabeth is shocked to discover the murder victim was none other than her predecessor Madeline Hexham. Elizabeth wants the poor girl's murder to be solved and she thinks she can gather clues the police might have missed. Ben worries Elizabeth is putting herself in danger by staying in the house but an unmarried young lady in London can not go anywhere on her own. With the railroad executives breathing down his neck will Ben ever solve this case?
At first I had an eerie sense of deja vu. I'm sure one of the Mrs. Jeffries mysteries had the same premise. I was also certain I knew the identity of the murderer. It seemed so obvious to me... until I discovered I was wrong. I did figure it out but only just before Elizabeth. I was rather surprised but there were clues I (and Inspector Ross) missed. The thing that makes this novel stand out above the rest is the descriptions. The author included all the sights, sounds and even smells someone in Victorian London would have encountered. There are splendid descriptions throughout the book. It felt like being there in Victorian London, which is something the Mrs. Jeffries books lack. Also from reading the Mrs. Jeffries books, I gathered that forensic methods were known to the metropolitan police but not widely used. I'm going to trust the author did her research because everything else seems so real.
I loved Lizzie. At nearly 30, she's a spinster by London standards but she doesn't mind. She helped her father, ran his household and managed the money until it ran out. Now she has to make her way in the world and she seems to be glad to do it and not mind much. At first her situation sort of reminded me of Jane Eyre but the two stories are very different. Elizabeth is strong, confident and intelligent. She knows how to get information out of the servants without them knowing it. She's compassionate and caring towards those "beneath" her and she can't stand hypocrites.
Ben Ross was harder to get to know. His sections of the book read like his deposition. There's little spirit or emotion in them. As a result, his relationship with Elizabeth is a bit more subtle and slow than I would have liked. It was pretty obvious to me how he felt but the whole thing relied on coincidences, childhood memories and brief encounters. The end felt a bit rushed.
I recommend this book to fans of Y.S. Lee's The Agency novels and those who like mysteries a bit darker than Emily Brightwell's Mrs. Jeffries mysteries.
At first I had an eerie sense of deja vu. I'm sure one of the Mrs. Jeffries mysteries had the same premise. I was also certain I knew the identity of the murderer. It seemed so obvious to me... until I discovered I was wrong. I did figure it out but only just before Elizabeth. I was rather surprised but there were clues I (and Inspector Ross) missed. The thing that makes this novel stand out above the rest is the descriptions. The author included all the sights, sounds and even smells someone in Victorian London would have encountered. There are splendid descriptions throughout the book. It felt like being there in Victorian London, which is something the Mrs. Jeffries books lack. Also from reading the Mrs. Jeffries books, I gathered that forensic methods were known to the metropolitan police but not widely used. I'm going to trust the author did her research because everything else seems so real.
I loved Lizzie. At nearly 30, she's a spinster by London standards but she doesn't mind. She helped her father, ran his household and managed the money until it ran out. Now she has to make her way in the world and she seems to be glad to do it and not mind much. At first her situation sort of reminded me of Jane Eyre but the two stories are very different. Elizabeth is strong, confident and intelligent. She knows how to get information out of the servants without them knowing it. She's compassionate and caring towards those "beneath" her and she can't stand hypocrites.
Ben Ross was harder to get to know. His sections of the book read like his deposition. There's little spirit or emotion in them. As a result, his relationship with Elizabeth is a bit more subtle and slow than I would have liked. It was pretty obvious to me how he felt but the whole thing relied on coincidences, childhood memories and brief encounters. The end felt a bit rushed.
I recommend this book to fans of Y.S. Lee's The Agency novels and those who like mysteries a bit darker than Emily Brightwell's Mrs. Jeffries mysteries.
March 14, 2020
An entertaining historical mystery. I rather enjoyed this one and am eager for the sequel!
November 28, 2020
finally a good one!
June 13, 2015
Je suis toujours un brin méfiante lorsque je commence un livre « d’époque ». Le style peut parfois (souvent ?) être lourd, redondant et rendre le roman profondément ennuyeux. Un intérêt particulier pour les morts échappe à cette règle. Le style est résolument moderne dans l’écriture, il n’y a aucun temps mort, l’écriture est fluide, et pour autant, l’atmosphère surannée de cette époque est bien restituée.
Il est difficile de lâcher ce roman une fois commencé. L’enquête débute assez vite, les personnages sont bien décrits. Lizzie est une jeune femme de son temps, tournée vers l’avenir et déterminée à faire évoluer la place de la femme dans la société. Ce mélange de traditions et de modernisation est intéressant.
On retrouve toutefois cette douceur propre aux romans du genre. Cette atmosphère à la Jane Austen.
Lizzie veut que la vérité éclate au grand jour et que le meurtre de Madeleine soit élucidé. Son tempérament bien trempé, sa liberté d’expression en choquera plus d’un mais elle n’en aura que faire.
Ce roman est également intéressant sur le plan de l’écriture. L’auteur a choisi d’alterner les pensées de Lizzie et celles de Ross, ce qui rend le récit à deux voix particulièrement captivant.
De plus, Ann Granger ajoute une touche historique à son livre en intégrant pleinement les évolutions de l’époque : ainsi, le Londres en pleine construction, du chemin de fer notamment.
Si vous hésitez à vous lancer dans la lecture de romans d’époque, commencez par celui-ci, vous ne serez pas déçus :D
Il est difficile de lâcher ce roman une fois commencé. L’enquête débute assez vite, les personnages sont bien décrits. Lizzie est une jeune femme de son temps, tournée vers l’avenir et déterminée à faire évoluer la place de la femme dans la société. Ce mélange de traditions et de modernisation est intéressant.
On retrouve toutefois cette douceur propre aux romans du genre. Cette atmosphère à la Jane Austen.
Lizzie veut que la vérité éclate au grand jour et que le meurtre de Madeleine soit élucidé. Son tempérament bien trempé, sa liberté d’expression en choquera plus d’un mais elle n’en aura que faire.
Ce roman est également intéressant sur le plan de l’écriture. L’auteur a choisi d’alterner les pensées de Lizzie et celles de Ross, ce qui rend le récit à deux voix particulièrement captivant.
De plus, Ann Granger ajoute une touche historique à son livre en intégrant pleinement les évolutions de l’époque : ainsi, le Londres en pleine construction, du chemin de fer notamment.
Si vous hésitez à vous lancer dans la lecture de romans d’époque, commencez par celui-ci, vous ne serez pas déçus :D
August 31, 2015
After her father's death in 1864, Elizabeth Martin accepts a position in London as a lady's companion to Julia Parry, the widow of Elizabeth's godfather. She is told her predecessor, Madeleine left without notice and eloped. But, within a day or so Mrs, Parry has a visit from the police, Inspector Ben Ross, and the household learns that Madeline has been found murdered. The body was found in low income housing which is being demolished and which Julia Parry has an interest in.
The police inspector who brings the news of Madeline's death is someone Elizabeth knew as a child although Elizabeth does not immediately recognize him. When he explains to her who he is and where they met, Elizabeth also learns that her father had paid for Ross' education which had allowed Ross to escape working the coal mines in their hometown.
I like Ann Granger's writing style. The book never disappoints and keeps you interested from start to finish. It is not a long book and I finished it in one sitting, somewhat disappointed that I had no more of the story to read.
The police inspector who brings the news of Madeline's death is someone Elizabeth knew as a child although Elizabeth does not immediately recognize him. When he explains to her who he is and where they met, Elizabeth also learns that her father had paid for Ross' education which had allowed Ross to escape working the coal mines in their hometown.
I like Ann Granger's writing style. The book never disappoints and keeps you interested from start to finish. It is not a long book and I finished it in one sitting, somewhat disappointed that I had no more of the story to read.
October 9, 2014
Entertaining read but I felt both the characters and the plot could be a little wooden and predictable. The mystery of whodunit drew the reader in but the story could have more depth and challenge. Appreciated the historical background woven into the story but at points this felt unnecessarily patronising (as if we don't know anything about Victorian England - do we need to have it all explained - what happened to "show don't tell"?). Granger presents a likeable heroine and hero crime busting duet. Lots of buts then, but overall a reasonable read.
January 12, 2009
Nice little bit of Victorian era mystery. I will definitely read more in this series.
June 30, 2019
Un peu lent au démarrage, intrigue policière basique mais très jolie ambiance victorienne et amorce d'une reltion Lizzie/Ben qui m'a fait me jeter sur les deux suivants...
December 3, 2022
Habe mich gut durchaus gut unterhalten gefühlt...
August 7, 2025
First in a series of Victorian mysteries. Free audio that I listened to quickly because it was about to expire. Not stunning but definitely enjoyable. 3.5 stars rounded up.
November 12, 2024
I enjoy this author and was intrigued to start this series set in the Victorian era. I am pleased it was a very good read.
March 17, 2015
Avec un titre pareil, ce livre était vraiment tentant ! Gros coup de cœur pour cette lecture !!
Avec Un intérêt particulier pour les morts, nous nous retrouvons plongés en plein cœur de l’Angleterre de l’époque victorienne. Suite au décès de son père, Lizzie Martin accepte le poste de dame de compagnie auprès d’une riche veuve à Londres. À peine est-elle arrivée qu’elle se retrouve confrontée à la découverte du corps d’une jeune femme. Qu’a-t-il bien pu lui arriver ? Quelle n’est pas sa surprise lorsqu’elle découvre qu’il s’agit de la précédente dame de compagnie de sa patronne ! Décidée à trouver le coupable, Lizzie va mener sa propre enquête…
Ann Granger est une auteur bien connue en Angleterre qui n’a été traduite que tardivement en France. Et il était temps qu’elle le soit !
À mi-chemin entre Anne Perry et Jane Austen, Ann Granger nous propose une enquête policière à l’atmosphère angoissante. Les rues tortueuses de Londres regorgent de dangers et c’est ce que va malheureusement découvrir notre héroïne.
L’auteur parvient à restituer à merveille ce que pouvait être la capitale anglaise de l’époque et à nous plonger dans l’ambiance grâce à une belle plume, toute en précision et finesse. Le suspense y est à son comble également. L’auteur sait l’entretenir et remettre en cause toutes nos certitudes quant à l’identité du coupable.
Et les suspects sont nombreux ! En effet, Un intérêt particulier pour les morts c’est aussi une galerie de personnages hauts en couleurs, aussi attachants que détestables.
Commençons par le personnage principal. Lizzie est une héroïne intéressante. Loin d’être cruche, cette trentenaire aux origines plus que modestes possède un caractère bien trempé. Dans une société où les femmes n’ont d’autre choix que de se trouver un bon mari pour évoluer, Lizzie fait figure d’exception. Honnête et courageuse, elle est surtout très curieuse. Or, tout le monde le sait, la curiosité est un vilain défaut ! Et celle-ci va lui causer bien des problèmes… Déterminée à trouver l’identité du meurtrier de la précédente dame de compagnie, Lizzie va faire tout son possible pour aider Ben Ross, l’inspecteur en charge de l’affaire. Mais voilà, dans cette société d’hommes, Lizzie va froisser plus d’une convenance et ne risquera pas seulement sa vie au cours de cette enquête.
Ben Ross, son ami d’enfance, est lui aussi très attachant. Bien que ne possédant pas le charisme de Sherlock Holmes, ce fils de minier tente tant bien que mal de gravir les échelons d’un monde d’hypocrites et de faux-semblants où les gentlemen et les ladies règnent. Mais il ne faut pas se fier aux apparences… Tante Parry, Franck ou même les domestiques, tous se réfugient derrière des apparences trompeuses. Et la pauvre Madeleine Hexham a le dos bien large, même une fois morte. Au final, bien peu de personnes se sentent concernées par sa mort et elles sont davantage préoccupées par leur petite personne et par les répercussions que cette affaire pourrait avoir sur leur notoriété et leurs affaires.
Bien que ne révolutionnant pas le genre, Ann Granger signe avec Un intérêt particulier pour les morts le début d’une série d’enquêtes qui s’annoncent toutes plus trépidantes les unes que les autres. Vivement la suite !
http://drunkennessbooks.blogspot.fr/2...
Avec Un intérêt particulier pour les morts, nous nous retrouvons plongés en plein cœur de l’Angleterre de l’époque victorienne. Suite au décès de son père, Lizzie Martin accepte le poste de dame de compagnie auprès d’une riche veuve à Londres. À peine est-elle arrivée qu’elle se retrouve confrontée à la découverte du corps d’une jeune femme. Qu’a-t-il bien pu lui arriver ? Quelle n’est pas sa surprise lorsqu’elle découvre qu’il s’agit de la précédente dame de compagnie de sa patronne ! Décidée à trouver le coupable, Lizzie va mener sa propre enquête…
Ann Granger est une auteur bien connue en Angleterre qui n’a été traduite que tardivement en France. Et il était temps qu’elle le soit !
À mi-chemin entre Anne Perry et Jane Austen, Ann Granger nous propose une enquête policière à l’atmosphère angoissante. Les rues tortueuses de Londres regorgent de dangers et c’est ce que va malheureusement découvrir notre héroïne.
L’auteur parvient à restituer à merveille ce que pouvait être la capitale anglaise de l’époque et à nous plonger dans l’ambiance grâce à une belle plume, toute en précision et finesse. Le suspense y est à son comble également. L’auteur sait l’entretenir et remettre en cause toutes nos certitudes quant à l’identité du coupable.
Et les suspects sont nombreux ! En effet, Un intérêt particulier pour les morts c’est aussi une galerie de personnages hauts en couleurs, aussi attachants que détestables.
Commençons par le personnage principal. Lizzie est une héroïne intéressante. Loin d’être cruche, cette trentenaire aux origines plus que modestes possède un caractère bien trempé. Dans une société où les femmes n’ont d’autre choix que de se trouver un bon mari pour évoluer, Lizzie fait figure d’exception. Honnête et courageuse, elle est surtout très curieuse. Or, tout le monde le sait, la curiosité est un vilain défaut ! Et celle-ci va lui causer bien des problèmes… Déterminée à trouver l’identité du meurtrier de la précédente dame de compagnie, Lizzie va faire tout son possible pour aider Ben Ross, l’inspecteur en charge de l’affaire. Mais voilà, dans cette société d’hommes, Lizzie va froisser plus d’une convenance et ne risquera pas seulement sa vie au cours de cette enquête.
Ben Ross, son ami d’enfance, est lui aussi très attachant. Bien que ne possédant pas le charisme de Sherlock Holmes, ce fils de minier tente tant bien que mal de gravir les échelons d’un monde d’hypocrites et de faux-semblants où les gentlemen et les ladies règnent. Mais il ne faut pas se fier aux apparences… Tante Parry, Franck ou même les domestiques, tous se réfugient derrière des apparences trompeuses. Et la pauvre Madeleine Hexham a le dos bien large, même une fois morte. Au final, bien peu de personnes se sentent concernées par sa mort et elles sont davantage préoccupées par leur petite personne et par les répercussions que cette affaire pourrait avoir sur leur notoriété et leurs affaires.
Bien que ne révolutionnant pas le genre, Ann Granger signe avec Un intérêt particulier pour les morts le début d’une série d’enquêtes qui s’annoncent toutes plus trépidantes les unes que les autres. Vivement la suite !
http://drunkennessbooks.blogspot.fr/2...
August 31, 2013
Enfin une nouvelle série, la couverture m'a tapé dans l’œil et j'aimais l'idée d'une héroïne (et ça m'a aussi évoqué Charlotte Pitt, même si elle n'est pas mon personnage favori). Le contenu est à la hauteur de l'emballage. Même si on sent que c'est un premier tome et qu'il sert en partie à "poser" les personnages, il y a une vraie histoire policière. Le tout est assez passionnant malgré le fait que c'est un démarrage assez lent. Le personnage de Maddie, en filigrane est fouillé et on se prend à vouloir connaitre les raisons de son meurtre. Les personnages secondaires sont bien caractérisés même si j'avoue qu'une fois encore, j'ai beaucoup pensé aux séries d'Anne Perry (notamment sur Bessie qui rappelle furieusement le personnage de Gracie) Benjamin me fait penser à Thomas Pitt (leurs histoires se ressemblent un peu, même si Ben part de plus loin). Quand à Lizzie, l'héroïne, c'est un savant mélange de Charlotte Pitt et d'Hester Monk. Là où l'auteur réussit vraiment à se démarquer c'est par le point de vue alterné entre les deux héros. C'est une très bonne idée et c'est bien mené. Je trouve cependant que la fin va un peu vite tout comme la relation entre les deux héros mais j'avoue ne pas avoir trouvé le meutrier mais je n'ai guère cherché finalement, je pense qu'il n'y avait pas assez d'indices pour ça. Je me suis plus intéressée à la personnalité des personnages, bien traitée. L'héroïne m'a un peu rappelé Elizabeth Bennet par certains côtés et j'ai aimé la façon dont l'auteure critiquait les personnages (Tante Parry, Tibbet, Frank...) C'est plus sarcastique qu'Anne Perry et c'est tant mieux :)
Ce que j'ai aimé : Lizzie ! Les points de vue alternés, le soin apporté à l'histoire. Les petits détails historiques qui propulsent dans le Londres victorien
Ce que j'ai moins aimé : Parfois ça m'a trop rappelé les séries de Anne Perry, notamment dans la caractérisation des personnages
En bref : Un bon premier tome qui présente des personnages attachants et une héroïne qui me plait beaucoup. La reconstitution londonienne est très convaincante ! Un bémol sur le fait que cela ressemble énormément aux séries d'Anne Perry mais je lirais les autres.
Ma note : 8,5/10
Ce que j'ai aimé : Lizzie ! Les points de vue alternés, le soin apporté à l'histoire. Les petits détails historiques qui propulsent dans le Londres victorien
Ce que j'ai moins aimé : Parfois ça m'a trop rappelé les séries de Anne Perry, notamment dans la caractérisation des personnages
En bref : Un bon premier tome qui présente des personnages attachants et une héroïne qui me plait beaucoup. La reconstitution londonienne est très convaincante ! Un bémol sur le fait que cela ressemble énormément aux séries d'Anne Perry mais je lirais les autres.
Ma note : 8,5/10
August 10, 2013
Mlle Alice, pouvez-vous nous raconter votre rencontre avec Un Intérêt Particulier pour les Morts?
"Non mais vous avez vu la couverture?? Comment vouliez-vous que je résiste..."
Dites-nous en un peu plus sur son histoire...
"Lizzie Martin débarque à Londres en 1864 pour devenir dame de compagnie dans la famille Parry. Mais dès son arrivée, elle sera intriguée par la disparition de la jeune fille qui tenait sa place auparavant et dont on va finalement retrouver le corps..."
Mais que s'est-il exactement passé entre vous?
"C'était une lecture agréable qui rassemble beaucoup d'éléments que j'affectionne comme le lieu, l'époque et la présence d'un crime dans la bonne société. L'écriture est fluide et l'enquête ne présente pas d'incohérence. Malgré tout, j'aurais aimé qu'elle soit plus approfondie, plus compliquée mais comme nous sommes en présence du premier tome d'une série, je pense que l'auteur a volontairement préféré privilégier le passé et la psychologie des personnages que nous retrouverons par la suite. J'ai aussi apprécié l'alternance des points de vue dans le récit; Lizzie Martin et Ben Ross, qui enquête sur l'affaire, étant les deux narrateurs. J'ai été un peu plus gênée par l'emploi de la première personne mais cela relève du détail."
Et comment cela s'est-il fini?
"En bref, la lecture est agréable et la fin m'a donnée envie de lire la suite des aventures de cette jeune Lizzie Martin et surtout de son acolyte, dans lesquels je place beaucoup d'espoir. Cependant, disons-le franchement, n'est pas Anne Perry qui veut!"
http://booksaremywonderland.hautetfor...
"Non mais vous avez vu la couverture?? Comment vouliez-vous que je résiste..."
Dites-nous en un peu plus sur son histoire...
"Lizzie Martin débarque à Londres en 1864 pour devenir dame de compagnie dans la famille Parry. Mais dès son arrivée, elle sera intriguée par la disparition de la jeune fille qui tenait sa place auparavant et dont on va finalement retrouver le corps..."
Mais que s'est-il exactement passé entre vous?
"C'était une lecture agréable qui rassemble beaucoup d'éléments que j'affectionne comme le lieu, l'époque et la présence d'un crime dans la bonne société. L'écriture est fluide et l'enquête ne présente pas d'incohérence. Malgré tout, j'aurais aimé qu'elle soit plus approfondie, plus compliquée mais comme nous sommes en présence du premier tome d'une série, je pense que l'auteur a volontairement préféré privilégier le passé et la psychologie des personnages que nous retrouverons par la suite. J'ai aussi apprécié l'alternance des points de vue dans le récit; Lizzie Martin et Ben Ross, qui enquête sur l'affaire, étant les deux narrateurs. J'ai été un peu plus gênée par l'emploi de la première personne mais cela relève du détail."
Et comment cela s'est-il fini?
"En bref, la lecture est agréable et la fin m'a donnée envie de lire la suite des aventures de cette jeune Lizzie Martin et surtout de son acolyte, dans lesquels je place beaucoup d'espoir. Cependant, disons-le franchement, n'est pas Anne Perry qui veut!"
http://booksaremywonderland.hautetfor...
September 4, 2008
This is another of my escapist reads over the past week or so. Forays into tough stuff like glaucoma need (for me) to be balanced by some easier fare.
This novel opens with Elizabeth (Lizzie) Martin arriving in London in 1864. The death of Lizzie’s father has left her in straitened circumstances so when her late godfather’s widow, Mrs Parry, invites her to London as her companion Lizzie accepts. Lizzie barely arrives in London before being caught up in a series of disturbing events: her cab from the railway station crosses paths with a cart transporting a dead body. Shortly after arriving at her employer’s home, Lizzie learns that her predecessor departed suddenly in what seem to be suspicious circumstances.
Lizzie Martin is a likeable character whose amateur sleuthing is not in the least constrained by society’s idea of what is acceptable behaviour for a young woman of her class. However improbable aspects of this story are, the journey makes for an interesting, page turning read. Who murdered Madeleine Hexham, and why? There are a number of suspects, some delightful red herrings and some interesting descriptions of a London deep in the throes of change.
Aspects are predictable, but somehow that adds to the general enjoyment of the story. This is the first in a series to feature Lizzie Martin. The second is ‘A Mortal Curiosity’ and I’ve ordered it already. Ms Granger has a number of other novels to her credit, and I will also be looking to read those as time permits.
This novel opens with Elizabeth (Lizzie) Martin arriving in London in 1864. The death of Lizzie’s father has left her in straitened circumstances so when her late godfather’s widow, Mrs Parry, invites her to London as her companion Lizzie accepts. Lizzie barely arrives in London before being caught up in a series of disturbing events: her cab from the railway station crosses paths with a cart transporting a dead body. Shortly after arriving at her employer’s home, Lizzie learns that her predecessor departed suddenly in what seem to be suspicious circumstances.
Lizzie Martin is a likeable character whose amateur sleuthing is not in the least constrained by society’s idea of what is acceptable behaviour for a young woman of her class. However improbable aspects of this story are, the journey makes for an interesting, page turning read. Who murdered Madeleine Hexham, and why? There are a number of suspects, some delightful red herrings and some interesting descriptions of a London deep in the throes of change.
Aspects are predictable, but somehow that adds to the general enjoyment of the story. This is the first in a series to feature Lizzie Martin. The second is ‘A Mortal Curiosity’ and I’ve ordered it already. Ms Granger has a number of other novels to her credit, and I will also be looking to read those as time permits.
February 4, 2023
This book was just what I needed! A little Victorian murder mystery with a female amateur sleuth lead and a police officer acquaintance.
The London setting is lovely and entertaining. The multiple potential suspects keeps the readers suspicions constantly moving.
I appreciated that Lizzie Martin was not over the top reckless and outspoken. She had her moments, but it wasn’t incessant. That makes her character more believable and enjoyable. Particularly when most of the other women around her are incredibly controlling.
This book was refreshing, because it gave the reader what they wanted. I hate when an author dangles a carrot out in front to get you to the end, but either drags out the climax to a point of physical pain or makes you wait for the next book to see character progression. I find that rather tiring. This book delivers a well-paced and satisfying ending, and provides some character progression! I can’t get my hands on the next book fast enough!
One potential hang up in this book for readers might be the grammar and language. It feels like there were a ton of grammatical and spelling errors, but that could just be the particular ebook I got, or differences in British English to American English, or it might be an excellent recreation of English from the Victorian period. I didn’t let it bother me.
The London setting is lovely and entertaining. The multiple potential suspects keeps the readers suspicions constantly moving.
I appreciated that Lizzie Martin was not over the top reckless and outspoken. She had her moments, but it wasn’t incessant. That makes her character more believable and enjoyable. Particularly when most of the other women around her are incredibly controlling.
This book was refreshing, because it gave the reader what they wanted. I hate when an author dangles a carrot out in front to get you to the end, but either drags out the climax to a point of physical pain or makes you wait for the next book to see character progression. I find that rather tiring. This book delivers a well-paced and satisfying ending, and provides some character progression! I can’t get my hands on the next book fast enough!
One potential hang up in this book for readers might be the grammar and language. It feels like there were a ton of grammatical and spelling errors, but that could just be the particular ebook I got, or differences in British English to American English, or it might be an excellent recreation of English from the Victorian period. I didn’t let it bother me.
March 7, 2024
Lizzie Martin, newly arrived in London as companion to her godfather's widow, gets entangled in the mystery surrounding her predecessor's murder -- seems like everyone she encounters has a possible motive. Surprised to discover a childhood connection to the investigator on the case, Ben Ross, she proves resourceful in assisting him with information.
I enjoyed this book, but I can't say I found it especially compelling or attention-grabbing. I'm not entirely sure why. Part of it may be that I was subconsciously comparing it to other Victorianish-era mystery series' that I'm partial to (I'm thinking specifically of Deanna Raybourn and Tasha Alexander) and felt less connected to the main character and the storyline in this instance. It really was a pleasant read and I'll probably keep going with the series -- at least I'll give the next one a try -- but it wasn't quite as good as I'd anticipated. The ending sort of fizzled a bit for me. I also vacillated in my feelings about Lizzie, waffling between liking her character quite a bit and at times finding her irritating and irrational. Overall she was a heroine I liked but felt emotionally detached from, although I definitely enjoyed Ben's character and am curious to see what the next books in the series have to offer.
I enjoyed this book, but I can't say I found it especially compelling or attention-grabbing. I'm not entirely sure why. Part of it may be that I was subconsciously comparing it to other Victorianish-era mystery series' that I'm partial to (I'm thinking specifically of Deanna Raybourn and Tasha Alexander) and felt less connected to the main character and the storyline in this instance. It really was a pleasant read and I'll probably keep going with the series -- at least I'll give the next one a try -- but it wasn't quite as good as I'd anticipated. The ending sort of fizzled a bit for me. I also vacillated in my feelings about Lizzie, waffling between liking her character quite a bit and at times finding her irritating and irrational. Overall she was a heroine I liked but felt emotionally detached from, although I definitely enjoyed Ben's character and am curious to see what the next books in the series have to offer.
August 31, 2024
Lizzie Martin thinks herself lucky: she's been offered the position of companion to her godfather's widow in London. So the doctor's daughter leaves the coal mining village where she grew up and finds herself in a busy urban community where a neighborhood is being taken down to the ground.
And in the partial ruins, a body is found. Soon Lizzie finds herself in a strange situation — the woman found violently murderer, once held her position.
Lizzie Martin can't sit still and allow the police investigation to be stymied when she discovers clues likely to help them, even when the woman she works for has a financial interest — and social issues — to have the investigation fail. But as she discovers more and more, Scotland Yard Inspector Benjamin Ross worries that she may be putting herself in harms way.
Ann Granger has created a tenacious, smart young woman as amateur investigator in Martin, but she also opens mouth and puts her foot in far too often. Granger's setting in Victorian England rings true and the characters and dialogue are strong if not exactly authentic. Despite that this book, the first in the Lizzie Martin series, is a good read. It will be interesting to see how well the next books do.
And in the partial ruins, a body is found. Soon Lizzie finds herself in a strange situation — the woman found violently murderer, once held her position.
Lizzie Martin can't sit still and allow the police investigation to be stymied when she discovers clues likely to help them, even when the woman she works for has a financial interest — and social issues — to have the investigation fail. But as she discovers more and more, Scotland Yard Inspector Benjamin Ross worries that she may be putting herself in harms way.
Ann Granger has created a tenacious, smart young woman as amateur investigator in Martin, but she also opens mouth and puts her foot in far too often. Granger's setting in Victorian England rings true and the characters and dialogue are strong if not exactly authentic. Despite that this book, the first in the Lizzie Martin series, is a good read. It will be interesting to see how well the next books do.
November 30, 2014
Young Lizzie Martin arrives in London to become a lady's companion, having fallen on hard times since her father's death and in need of a job to support herself. The lady is her godfather's widow, and in need of a new companion since her previous one inconveniently disappeared without warning.
It's 1864. Railways are being established, with whole neighbourhoods being razed to make way for tracks, tunnels and stations, and they're dangerous places to be. Lizzie encounters this as soon as she arrives, as her carriage has to stop to make way for a wagon carrying the body of a woman found dead in a house awaiting demolition.
When Lizzie learns more about predecessor from the household staff, she starts to doubt her employer's assumptions that immoral behaviour was behind her leaving. And then she meets Inspector Benjamin Ross, who delivers shocking news...
Loved it! It was nicely put together on all fronts - mystery, thriller, romance, and history - and a great read. I'm happy to discover that Ann Granger has written several other books, and indeed this one is the first in a series - clearly I will have to investigate further, for the benefit of the library, of course. ;-)
It's 1864. Railways are being established, with whole neighbourhoods being razed to make way for tracks, tunnels and stations, and they're dangerous places to be. Lizzie encounters this as soon as she arrives, as her carriage has to stop to make way for a wagon carrying the body of a woman found dead in a house awaiting demolition.
When Lizzie learns more about predecessor from the household staff, she starts to doubt her employer's assumptions that immoral behaviour was behind her leaving. And then she meets Inspector Benjamin Ross, who delivers shocking news...
Loved it! It was nicely put together on all fronts - mystery, thriller, romance, and history - and a great read. I'm happy to discover that Ann Granger has written several other books, and indeed this one is the first in a series - clearly I will have to investigate further, for the benefit of the library, of course. ;-)
July 4, 2019
Victorian era crime mystery.
A very good read. The main characters are expertly drawn. It’s the first in a series and I will be reading the rest. Highly recommended.
A very good read. The main characters are expertly drawn. It’s the first in a series and I will be reading the rest. Highly recommended.
July 1, 2022
Not good…… bought the whole series and now wish I’d just bought the first one to see how it was first….. not good
The authors way of writing is very “jagged” and by that I mean they waffle a lot in some areas and then you have some areas of interest but, then again, the author goes off on another tangent waffling about something that happened 20 years ago which has zero to do with the present day crime. Pages of unnecessary waffle!!!
Really had to FORCE myself to continue and it was very easy to put down then pick up again without any expectation or excitement which isn’t how I usually “roll”!
I think there’s a shaky plot in the book SOMEWHERE but, because of the way in which this is written, it’s like sorting the wheat from the chaff. I don’t have the energy or the wherewithal to start wading through jagged pages of word salad to find out what the heck is going on!!
Struggling to find any energy to read the other six books in this series…… especially when there’s a new Ashmole Foxe mystery that’s just come out! Now THAT’S what I call a great series of books by William Savage……..I think the rest of this series can wait, Ashmole Foxe is-a calling me!!
The authors way of writing is very “jagged” and by that I mean they waffle a lot in some areas and then you have some areas of interest but, then again, the author goes off on another tangent waffling about something that happened 20 years ago which has zero to do with the present day crime. Pages of unnecessary waffle!!!
Really had to FORCE myself to continue and it was very easy to put down then pick up again without any expectation or excitement which isn’t how I usually “roll”!
I think there’s a shaky plot in the book SOMEWHERE but, because of the way in which this is written, it’s like sorting the wheat from the chaff. I don’t have the energy or the wherewithal to start wading through jagged pages of word salad to find out what the heck is going on!!
Struggling to find any energy to read the other six books in this series…… especially when there’s a new Ashmole Foxe mystery that’s just come out! Now THAT’S what I call a great series of books by William Savage……..I think the rest of this series can wait, Ashmole Foxe is-a calling me!!
May 29, 2014
Reading these in reverse, it seems.
This is the first in the Lizzie Martin series. Her father's death and debts has forced Lizzie to look for an appropriate position for someone in her station. She has gone to London to be companion to the widow of her godfather, a fat dollop of a woman who eats a great deal of pastries in the course of this book. What Lizzie has not been told is that the previous companion "disappeared under mysterious circumstances."
There's some nice historical background on the tearing down of the slums to make way for the building of St. Pancras station.
Lizzie is a model heroine. When she runs across pertinent information, she heads straight for the police, dragging witnesses practically by the ear. Brava!
This is the first in the Lizzie Martin series. Her father's death and debts has forced Lizzie to look for an appropriate position for someone in her station. She has gone to London to be companion to the widow of her godfather, a fat dollop of a woman who eats a great deal of pastries in the course of this book. What Lizzie has not been told is that the previous companion "disappeared under mysterious circumstances."
There's some nice historical background on the tearing down of the slums to make way for the building of St. Pancras station.
Lizzie is a model heroine. When she runs across pertinent information, she heads straight for the police, dragging witnesses practically by the ear. Brava!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 214 reviews