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Barnabas Tew #1
Barnabas Tew and The Case Of The Missing Scarab
Barnabas Tew is a private detective struggling to survive in his trade in Victorian London. Fearing that he is not as clever as he had hoped to be, he is plagued by a lack of confidence brought on in no small part by his failure to prevent the untimely deaths of several of his clients.
Matters only get worse when Anubis, the Egyptian God of the Dead, is referred to Barnabas by a former client (who perished in a terribly unfortunate incident which was almost certainly not Barnabas’ fault). Anubis sends for Barnabas (in a most uncivilized manner) and tells him that the scarab beetle in charge of rolling the sun across the sky every day has been kidnapped, and perhaps dismembered entirely.
The Land of the Dead is in chaos, which will soon spill over into the Land of the Living if Barnabas – together with his trusty assistant, Wilfred – cannot set matters to right. Pulled from his predictable (if unremarkable) life in Marylebone, Barnabas must match his wits against the capricious and dangerous Egyptian gods in order to unravel the mystery of the missing beetle and thereby save the world.
Matters only get worse when Anubis, the Egyptian God of the Dead, is referred to Barnabas by a former client (who perished in a terribly unfortunate incident which was almost certainly not Barnabas’ fault). Anubis sends for Barnabas (in a most uncivilized manner) and tells him that the scarab beetle in charge of rolling the sun across the sky every day has been kidnapped, and perhaps dismembered entirely.
The Land of the Dead is in chaos, which will soon spill over into the Land of the Living if Barnabas – together with his trusty assistant, Wilfred – cannot set matters to right. Pulled from his predictable (if unremarkable) life in Marylebone, Barnabas must match his wits against the capricious and dangerous Egyptian gods in order to unravel the mystery of the missing beetle and thereby save the world.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 26, 2017
264 people are currently reading
435 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
August 30, 2018
4☆ A Fun, Laugh Out loud Cosy Historical Mystery
Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab is a fun, quirky, Egyptian mystery full of crazy characters and mishaps, and hilarious laugh out loud moments.
I am fascinated by Egypt so when I read the blurb for this I was really looking forward to reading it.
Barnabas is a private detective. Although he isn't particularly great at it, as he has a way of getting his clients killed.
Wilfred is Barnabas friend and so to speak partner in crime. The perfect crazy duo.
So when Barnabas finds himself crossing over to the Egyptian underworld in order to help an ancient God Anubis track down an ancient Scarab, giving his track record you can only imagine the mayhem that is going to be caused.
You are in for a crazy ride.
I really wasn't sure what to expect from this book but I was pleasantly surprised.
It was a light hearted, fun, hilarious, quirky crazy characters which I enjoyed, plenty of mayhem with mystery and a fantasy feel as we get to cross over to the realm of the Egyptian underworld.
This is the first book in the series and I'm looking forward to discovering what's next for Barnabas.
If you enjoy fun historical cosy mysteries
Then you will enjoy this thrilling read.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab is a fun, quirky, Egyptian mystery full of crazy characters and mishaps, and hilarious laugh out loud moments.
I am fascinated by Egypt so when I read the blurb for this I was really looking forward to reading it.
Barnabas is a private detective. Although he isn't particularly great at it, as he has a way of getting his clients killed.
Wilfred is Barnabas friend and so to speak partner in crime. The perfect crazy duo.
So when Barnabas finds himself crossing over to the Egyptian underworld in order to help an ancient God Anubis track down an ancient Scarab, giving his track record you can only imagine the mayhem that is going to be caused.
You are in for a crazy ride.
I really wasn't sure what to expect from this book but I was pleasantly surprised.
It was a light hearted, fun, hilarious, quirky crazy characters which I enjoyed, plenty of mayhem with mystery and a fantasy feel as we get to cross over to the realm of the Egyptian underworld.
This is the first book in the series and I'm looking forward to discovering what's next for Barnabas.
If you enjoy fun historical cosy mysteries
Then you will enjoy this thrilling read.
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
February 27, 2018
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Japes aplenty, some seriously funny characters, and the ancient gods of Egypt.
I was chatting to the author about this book, and was immediately sold on the concept - Victorian detectives and ancient Egypt...yes please! I'm pleased to say it was a good, fun read; with plenty of entertaining silliness and lots of creativity to boot.
Barnabas is a fairly rubbish detective, working with his friend Wilfred to solve mysteries for his clients (who often seem to end up dead). Upon visiting a museum one day, he finds himself shut in for the night with a rather hostile mummy; and lo and behold, a matter of moments later, he wakes up in the Egyptian underworld... and signed up to help find the missing scarab, Khepre.
However, because he's your quintessential bumbling Englishman, he's fairly inept at the task, and his friend Wilfred, though calmer and more considered, isn't much better. Through meeting all the major gods and goddesses of ancient Egypt, they learn more about the strange case, and end up going through all sorts of trials - fancy getting the head of a mouse, anybody?
I enjoyed the characters in this book, especially Barnabas himself; who is a classic anti-hero; somewhat idiotic, mildly pompous and quick to react (even when it's better to keep his mouth shut). Likewise, Wilfred, his more rational, sensible companion, is also good fun. There were several gods I also liked; such as the kindly Thoth (hey, what writer doesn't like Thoth, hey?) and ultra-sensative Hathor - they were richly imagined and enjoyable to read.
One minor thing; while reading I felt I wanted to know more about the underworld itself; I could have done with more description to bring it to life in my head. However, overall this was a fun read - and would probably appeal to anyone into ancient Egypt (I was thinking, while reading it, that it'd be a good introduction for secondary school kids studying the subject, as many of the gods are represented!).
Japes aplenty, some seriously funny characters, and the ancient gods of Egypt.
I was chatting to the author about this book, and was immediately sold on the concept - Victorian detectives and ancient Egypt...yes please! I'm pleased to say it was a good, fun read; with plenty of entertaining silliness and lots of creativity to boot.
Barnabas is a fairly rubbish detective, working with his friend Wilfred to solve mysteries for his clients (who often seem to end up dead). Upon visiting a museum one day, he finds himself shut in for the night with a rather hostile mummy; and lo and behold, a matter of moments later, he wakes up in the Egyptian underworld... and signed up to help find the missing scarab, Khepre.
However, because he's your quintessential bumbling Englishman, he's fairly inept at the task, and his friend Wilfred, though calmer and more considered, isn't much better. Through meeting all the major gods and goddesses of ancient Egypt, they learn more about the strange case, and end up going through all sorts of trials - fancy getting the head of a mouse, anybody?
I enjoyed the characters in this book, especially Barnabas himself; who is a classic anti-hero; somewhat idiotic, mildly pompous and quick to react (even when it's better to keep his mouth shut). Likewise, Wilfred, his more rational, sensible companion, is also good fun. There were several gods I also liked; such as the kindly Thoth (hey, what writer doesn't like Thoth, hey?) and ultra-sensative Hathor - they were richly imagined and enjoyable to read.
One minor thing; while reading I felt I wanted to know more about the underworld itself; I could have done with more description to bring it to life in my head. However, overall this was a fun read - and would probably appeal to anyone into ancient Egypt (I was thinking, while reading it, that it'd be a good introduction for secondary school kids studying the subject, as many of the gods are represented!).
August 14, 2018
*** Note: Many thanks to Rachel and author for providing review copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review. ***
Stars – 4.5/5
Barnabas Tew and The Case Of The Missing Scarab was a humorous cozy mystery set in Victorian London era nicely blended with Egyptian mythology. As the title and blurb suggests it was the story of two British detectives, Barnabas Tew and his assistant Wilfred Colby, and their adventurous journey to the Egyptian underworld for solving the case of missing scarab for which they were hired by none other than Egyptian God of Death- Anubis. The book was quirky and purely entertainment.
Characters-
Barnabas Tew– was awkward, clumsy, babbling, not-so-successful private detective who lacked confidence and cleverness contrasting his role model Sherlock Holmes. He had a knack for mess up things more. But he was such a gentleman, kind, and soft-hearted fellow. I bet you will think at some point how this dude is going to solve the case but he definitely surprised me in climax. Wilfred– was better built and even more clever and rational than Barnabas but was too modest to show this to his employer. He knew Barnabas better than anyone else and the way he coped with his moods and blunders was really great.
What I liked-
Writing was awesome! It was lighthearted, very British, and entertaining contrary to what I expected from cover and blurb. Characters were the charm of the book. You will notice characters- both British detectives and Gods of Egypt- more than anything else in the book. It was so easy to imagine Barnabas and other characters in my head from the very beginning of the book.
The story was third person narrative with amusing monologues of narrator. Within first few chapter detectives were introduced and the many unfortunate cases were discussed which made it very clear that this book going to be so entertaining that you have to put your logic and mind aside and just enjoy it. The way they were assigned the case by Anubis was unbelievable and so much hilarious. Majority of the story take place in Egyptian underworld.
Ancient Gods and Goddesses in the book were quirky and moody. There isn’t much of a story/myth related to them in the book, just bit of facts about them. But they were described remarkably with those different heads and detectives’ funny comments on that which made it easy to imagine them clearly. The way they pulled legs of detectives was entertaining. Oh God, I laughed so much when detectives got their mouse heads. And their encounter with Hathor’s guards! These two scenes were unforgettable.
I pitied situation of Barnabas and Wilfred. Poor fellows had only little knowledge about Egyptian mythology or Egyptian Gods and Goddesses, they didn’t know their way around the underworld, and they didn’t have much help from people living there. Moreover they didn’t ask enough proper questions regarding the case! No planning, no clue! I was like ‘oh dear, how they are going to investigate the case! They are simply gone cases’. The way they were misled and blunders (yes, plural) they made in finding Khepre was remarkably hilarious. I kept shaking my head and smiling in disbelief like all Egyptian Gods at Barnabas’s stupidity and the way he kept losing the track of the case.
I admit I stopped guessing who was the culprit very early in the book and was just going with flow like I was watching funny TV series. Silliness and headless investigation of the detectives made the book so much unpredictable. I bet, you won’t think what culprit might do next in the story but what these detectives will do. 😀
Conversations between the characters takes the all the stars. I so much enjoyed Barnabas and Wilfred’s worthless discussions and whisperings specifically those in presence of various Gods.
Finally, in the climax, the cogwheels of their brain started turning in right direction. The bit of twist and proper questioning, plan, and help made the climax engaging and entertaining. The end was surprising with another twist that gave the hint of Barnabas’ next adventure in the next book. I signed up for the blog tour for second book without even reading its blurb and I’m glad I did it. The whole Egyptian adventure of Barnabas and his assistant was so much fun to read that I would love to see what they will do in the next book- Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Nine Worlds.
why 4.5 stars-
Barnabas was annoying in middle part of the book.
I wish there was a bit of myth as well. As mythology lover it wasn't that much satisfactory to read this Egyptian adventure without myths and stories.
Overall, it was purely entertainment, humorous, and enjoyable story with odd characters and lots of Egyptian adventure. I definitely recommend this book to those would like a light humorous mystery book.
You can read all my reviews on Blog - Books Teacup and Reviews
Stars – 4.5/5
Barnabas Tew and The Case Of The Missing Scarab was a humorous cozy mystery set in Victorian London era nicely blended with Egyptian mythology. As the title and blurb suggests it was the story of two British detectives, Barnabas Tew and his assistant Wilfred Colby, and their adventurous journey to the Egyptian underworld for solving the case of missing scarab for which they were hired by none other than Egyptian God of Death- Anubis. The book was quirky and purely entertainment.
Characters-
Barnabas Tew– was awkward, clumsy, babbling, not-so-successful private detective who lacked confidence and cleverness contrasting his role model Sherlock Holmes. He had a knack for mess up things more. But he was such a gentleman, kind, and soft-hearted fellow. I bet you will think at some point how this dude is going to solve the case but he definitely surprised me in climax. Wilfred– was better built and even more clever and rational than Barnabas but was too modest to show this to his employer. He knew Barnabas better than anyone else and the way he coped with his moods and blunders was really great.
What I liked-
Writing was awesome! It was lighthearted, very British, and entertaining contrary to what I expected from cover and blurb. Characters were the charm of the book. You will notice characters- both British detectives and Gods of Egypt- more than anything else in the book. It was so easy to imagine Barnabas and other characters in my head from the very beginning of the book.
The story was third person narrative with amusing monologues of narrator. Within first few chapter detectives were introduced and the many unfortunate cases were discussed which made it very clear that this book going to be so entertaining that you have to put your logic and mind aside and just enjoy it. The way they were assigned the case by Anubis was unbelievable and so much hilarious. Majority of the story take place in Egyptian underworld.
Ancient Gods and Goddesses in the book were quirky and moody. There isn’t much of a story/myth related to them in the book, just bit of facts about them. But they were described remarkably with those different heads and detectives’ funny comments on that which made it easy to imagine them clearly. The way they pulled legs of detectives was entertaining. Oh God, I laughed so much when detectives got their mouse heads. And their encounter with Hathor’s guards! These two scenes were unforgettable.
I pitied situation of Barnabas and Wilfred. Poor fellows had only little knowledge about Egyptian mythology or Egyptian Gods and Goddesses, they didn’t know their way around the underworld, and they didn’t have much help from people living there. Moreover they didn’t ask enough proper questions regarding the case! No planning, no clue! I was like ‘oh dear, how they are going to investigate the case! They are simply gone cases’. The way they were misled and blunders (yes, plural) they made in finding Khepre was remarkably hilarious. I kept shaking my head and smiling in disbelief like all Egyptian Gods at Barnabas’s stupidity and the way he kept losing the track of the case.
I admit I stopped guessing who was the culprit very early in the book and was just going with flow like I was watching funny TV series. Silliness and headless investigation of the detectives made the book so much unpredictable. I bet, you won’t think what culprit might do next in the story but what these detectives will do. 😀
Conversations between the characters takes the all the stars. I so much enjoyed Barnabas and Wilfred’s worthless discussions and whisperings specifically those in presence of various Gods.
Finally, in the climax, the cogwheels of their brain started turning in right direction. The bit of twist and proper questioning, plan, and help made the climax engaging and entertaining. The end was surprising with another twist that gave the hint of Barnabas’ next adventure in the next book. I signed up for the blog tour for second book without even reading its blurb and I’m glad I did it. The whole Egyptian adventure of Barnabas and his assistant was so much fun to read that I would love to see what they will do in the next book- Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Nine Worlds.
why 4.5 stars-
Barnabas was annoying in middle part of the book.
I wish there was a bit of myth as well. As mythology lover it wasn't that much satisfactory to read this Egyptian adventure without myths and stories.
Overall, it was purely entertainment, humorous, and enjoyable story with odd characters and lots of Egyptian adventure. I definitely recommend this book to those would like a light humorous mystery book.
You can read all my reviews on Blog - Books Teacup and Reviews
December 20, 2017
Check out this review, and many more, on my blog https://jessjesinghaus.wordpress.com
What might happen if a rather inept Victorian detective were to find himself suddenly in the Egyptian afterlife, charged with solving a case for none other than the god Anubis himself? Why hilariousness, of course! Barnabas Tew and The Case of The Missing Scarab by Columbkill Noonan is a zany, quirky tale sure to tickle your fancy.
Barnabas Tew has big dreams. Captured by the notion of becoming a famous detective, like his idol Sherlock Holmes, it’s no exaggeration to say Barnabas’ abilities fall miles short of his aspirations. His biggest saving grace is his loyal assistant Wilfred who, despite what Barnabas may think, is clearly the more clever of the two. When Barnabas and Wilfred visit the London museum’s latest attraction, an Egyptian mummy, Barnabas gets quite a fright: the mummy rises from its platform to deliver our bumbling detective to Anubis. The case: Someone has kidnapped Khepre, the scarab god responsible for rolling the sun across the sky each day. If Khepre can’t be found, the afterlife is doomed. The catch: One can’t be alive and walk about in the afterlife! Hilariously, Barnabas takes it all in stride but, unfortunately for his assistant Wilfred, Anubis takes him at his word when he flippantly mentions how helpful it would be should Wilfred be there to help him. Thus, our two heroes find themselves snatched from the living world of London and thrust right into the middle of the politics and machinations of ancient Egypt’s most fearsome gods and goddesses. Pitting the wisdom of the gods against Barnabas’ naivety makes for a delightful juxtaposition indeed. But can Barnabas hold his own against the ancient gods and rescue Khepre?
Where this story really shines is in its humor. You can’t take this book too seriously. The premise itself promises much “fish out of water” awkwardness. Add to that Barnabas’ tendency to speak without thinking (or simply not understanding that which he’s speaking about) and the laughs are plentiful. As an adult with a penchant for Victorian detectives and all things Egyptian, this book was straight up my alley. But I wondered how it would fare with its target young adult audience? On a whim, I read the first chapter with my ten year old daughter. She’s hooked. Columbkill Noonan manages to weave a fascinating and entertaining story. The banter between Barnabas and Wilfred (well quite frankly all the dialogue) flows naturally. There were some excellent vocabulary challenges for the younger reader which parents are sure to appreciate. Fans of Egyptian mythology will appreciate the depictions of the various gods and goddesses, but those without prior knowledge of the pantheon will not find themselves lost. All in all, Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab is a delightful romp and I cannot wait for Barnabas and Wilfred’s next case!
**Reviewed for Readers' Favorite**
What might happen if a rather inept Victorian detective were to find himself suddenly in the Egyptian afterlife, charged with solving a case for none other than the god Anubis himself? Why hilariousness, of course! Barnabas Tew and The Case of The Missing Scarab by Columbkill Noonan is a zany, quirky tale sure to tickle your fancy.
Barnabas Tew has big dreams. Captured by the notion of becoming a famous detective, like his idol Sherlock Holmes, it’s no exaggeration to say Barnabas’ abilities fall miles short of his aspirations. His biggest saving grace is his loyal assistant Wilfred who, despite what Barnabas may think, is clearly the more clever of the two. When Barnabas and Wilfred visit the London museum’s latest attraction, an Egyptian mummy, Barnabas gets quite a fright: the mummy rises from its platform to deliver our bumbling detective to Anubis. The case: Someone has kidnapped Khepre, the scarab god responsible for rolling the sun across the sky each day. If Khepre can’t be found, the afterlife is doomed. The catch: One can’t be alive and walk about in the afterlife! Hilariously, Barnabas takes it all in stride but, unfortunately for his assistant Wilfred, Anubis takes him at his word when he flippantly mentions how helpful it would be should Wilfred be there to help him. Thus, our two heroes find themselves snatched from the living world of London and thrust right into the middle of the politics and machinations of ancient Egypt’s most fearsome gods and goddesses. Pitting the wisdom of the gods against Barnabas’ naivety makes for a delightful juxtaposition indeed. But can Barnabas hold his own against the ancient gods and rescue Khepre?
Where this story really shines is in its humor. You can’t take this book too seriously. The premise itself promises much “fish out of water” awkwardness. Add to that Barnabas’ tendency to speak without thinking (or simply not understanding that which he’s speaking about) and the laughs are plentiful. As an adult with a penchant for Victorian detectives and all things Egyptian, this book was straight up my alley. But I wondered how it would fare with its target young adult audience? On a whim, I read the first chapter with my ten year old daughter. She’s hooked. Columbkill Noonan manages to weave a fascinating and entertaining story. The banter between Barnabas and Wilfred (well quite frankly all the dialogue) flows naturally. There were some excellent vocabulary challenges for the younger reader which parents are sure to appreciate. Fans of Egyptian mythology will appreciate the depictions of the various gods and goddesses, but those without prior knowledge of the pantheon will not find themselves lost. All in all, Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab is a delightful romp and I cannot wait for Barnabas and Wilfred’s next case!
**Reviewed for Readers' Favorite**
December 21, 2017
This fun, quirky, and sometimes quite silly adventure rather flew by, for me.
Victorian London, fantasy, a touch of steampunk and a huge dollop of humor and silliness anchor the tale as our bumbling, pseudo-Holmesian, titular detective and his much less bumbling assistant Wilfred are charged by none other than Anubis, Egyptian god of the dead, with solving the case of the missing scarab.
A slew of ancient deities are only some of the hurdles with which our intrepid duo have to contend and the mystery of the scarab's disappearance turns out to be rather suspenseful.
It must be said that one is best served approaching this read in full knowledge of the humoristic nature of the mystery. That served this reader quite well and allowed for full enjoyment of this book as it was intended. And the story actually gets better in the latter chapters.
A fast, fun read.
Victorian London, fantasy, a touch of steampunk and a huge dollop of humor and silliness anchor the tale as our bumbling, pseudo-Holmesian, titular detective and his much less bumbling assistant Wilfred are charged by none other than Anubis, Egyptian god of the dead, with solving the case of the missing scarab.
A slew of ancient deities are only some of the hurdles with which our intrepid duo have to contend and the mystery of the scarab's disappearance turns out to be rather suspenseful.
It must be said that one is best served approaching this read in full knowledge of the humoristic nature of the mystery. That served this reader quite well and allowed for full enjoyment of this book as it was intended. And the story actually gets better in the latter chapters.
A fast, fun read.
February 12, 2018
Truly hilarious book! Read such a quirky book after long. When an incompetent detective is hired by an Egyptian lord, what happens? Gear up for a funny ride and know the fate of this detective and his slightly wiser, but not really, assistant.
Barnabas Tew is a detective who solve cases such that his employers end up dead. Of course he doesn’t kills them but somehow he is more of unlucky than lucky in solving his cases. But all that does not deters him from equating his case solving skills with none other than Sherlock Holmes. His abilities fall short of his ambitions and he knows that well, but thanks to his assistant Wilfred, who keeps Barnabas happy and does not let him feel bad about his failures.
In case of one such failure, he takes Barnabas to visit a museum to witness it’s latest attraction, an Egyptian Mummy, and what unfolds from here, is definitely worth reading. Their journey in Egyptian afterlife and solving the case is full of slapstick events. In spite of all the perils that adorn their way, Barnabas and his assistant never let go and though in a silly manner, try their best to solve the case.
Barnabas and Wilfred’s conversations are cute. The author has used beautiful language that would be a delight to go through, specially for younger readers. All in all I would highly recommend this book to everyone who loves to read a comic-detective piece of fiction.
Barnabas Tew is a detective who solve cases such that his employers end up dead. Of course he doesn’t kills them but somehow he is more of unlucky than lucky in solving his cases. But all that does not deters him from equating his case solving skills with none other than Sherlock Holmes. His abilities fall short of his ambitions and he knows that well, but thanks to his assistant Wilfred, who keeps Barnabas happy and does not let him feel bad about his failures.
In case of one such failure, he takes Barnabas to visit a museum to witness it’s latest attraction, an Egyptian Mummy, and what unfolds from here, is definitely worth reading. Their journey in Egyptian afterlife and solving the case is full of slapstick events. In spite of all the perils that adorn their way, Barnabas and his assistant never let go and though in a silly manner, try their best to solve the case.
Barnabas and Wilfred’s conversations are cute. The author has used beautiful language that would be a delight to go through, specially for younger readers. All in all I would highly recommend this book to everyone who loves to read a comic-detective piece of fiction.
March 6, 2018
I picked up this book because I love Sherlock Holmes stories and Egyptian mythology, and the description led me to believe that this book would fit. Sadly disappointed. The main character is foolish, vapid, shallow, and unbelievably stupid. The story line is weak. Don't waste your time or money on this book.
February 17, 2018
I wanted to like Barnabas Tew, I really did. Supernatural Victorian detective exploring foreign mythological happenings is an incredibly specific genre that I have been craving since reading American Gods and Sherlock in close succession.
However, no matter how much I tried, I couldn't enjoy it.
The main character Barnabas Tew, a self-styled Sherlock admirer complete with deer hunter and great coat, is a bumbling detective trying his hardest to make it as a private detective but seems to always get his clients killed. Throughout the story we see into how Barnabas thinks through small observations and descriptions and this can be quite interesting at times but at other points drags on, ruining the flow of the scene.
Other characters seem to follow this peculiar pattern of being interesting and unique at some points and strangely dissonant at others. Often times just giving Barnabas what he needs to further the story with no real explanation as to why.
The description is lacking and I still have no idea as to what the Egyptian underworld looks like beyond black, sandy, and that there is a river.
The actual plot was interesting but the author has followed the style of older novels and uses a lot of language that may confuse readers and often makes it difficult to follow. More often than not I found myself having to go back and reread a section because I realised I had lost concentration from the tangential storytelling and obtuse wording.
I wanted to like Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab but I just couldn't. There is a story in there that is worth reading but personally I couldn't keep at it for more than half an hour at a time.
However, no matter how much I tried, I couldn't enjoy it.
The main character Barnabas Tew, a self-styled Sherlock admirer complete with deer hunter and great coat, is a bumbling detective trying his hardest to make it as a private detective but seems to always get his clients killed. Throughout the story we see into how Barnabas thinks through small observations and descriptions and this can be quite interesting at times but at other points drags on, ruining the flow of the scene.
Other characters seem to follow this peculiar pattern of being interesting and unique at some points and strangely dissonant at others. Often times just giving Barnabas what he needs to further the story with no real explanation as to why.
The description is lacking and I still have no idea as to what the Egyptian underworld looks like beyond black, sandy, and that there is a river.
The actual plot was interesting but the author has followed the style of older novels and uses a lot of language that may confuse readers and often makes it difficult to follow. More often than not I found myself having to go back and reread a section because I realised I had lost concentration from the tangential storytelling and obtuse wording.
I wanted to like Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab but I just couldn't. There is a story in there that is worth reading but personally I couldn't keep at it for more than half an hour at a time.
November 29, 2017
You'll never read another book quite like this quirky, fantastical tale of Barnabas Tew! I absolutely loved it, especially the hark back to a different time and place via some of the most colourful and humorous language. Colombkill Noonan has quite an imagination and writes quite brilliantly...
February 16, 2018
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This in no way effects my overall rating of this book.
When I chose to read and review this book I was wary – but I’m happy that this book surprised me in the best way possible.
Our title character Barnabas Tew is a Private Detective living in Victorian England. He’s an aspiring Sherlock Holmes with Wilfred (forgot his last name) as his John Watson. He’s had a back track record of his past clients dying due to his mistakes. He acts smarter than he actually is, but his intentions are always the best.
Barnabas gets attacked and knocked out by a mummy. When he wakes up he’s in the Underworld. The Egyptian Underworld. As it turns out, one of his past clients recommended him to Anubis – the god of the afterlife – to solve a case for him.
This concept was so interesting and creative! I never would’ve thought of anything like this and I consider myself a creative person. I mean, British detectives in the Egyptian underworld?? BRILLIANT!
I loved how the author seamlessly incorporated loads of Egyptian gods that I was familiar and unfamiliar with. The way the author portrayed them was nice and they all had their own hidden agendas which made them even more interesting to read about.
I don’t pick up mystery books often but I found this one to be well-written. The author was able to sneakily put in clues that hint at what would happen at the end of the book. He also made just about everyone look like a suspect – like a good mystery story should have.
Although I loved the humor, writing, setting, and overall plot of this book there were a few technicalities that bothered me. For example, how Barnabas and Wilfred kept on getting hungry and tired – but they’re in the underworld so they’re dead. I found this strange. Maybe it’s unique to just Egyptian mythology that I didn’t know about, but it kind of bugged me. I kept on saying “You’re dead! You don’t need food or sleep or rest, just find the one that’s guilty!”
I liked but also got annoyed with Barnabas. He really isn’t all that smart – Wilfred, his assistant – is actually much smarter and observant than he is, which I found hilarious. He always saw himself as right – something I hate in a character – but considering he’s made out to be a detective similar to Sherlock Holmes I let it slide.
I was also able to guess the person guilty of the crime within the first hundred pages, but that was just me. I’m able to easily guess a lot of things so it wasn’t necessarily a downfall on the book’s part.
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Overall this book was a very entertaining read. It was fun and adventurous and had a wonderful cast of characters that I found interesting to read about. The ending was fulfilling but open-ended so that you can easily decide whether you want to read the next book in the series or not.
For more reviews and other bookish stuff visit my blog here
When I chose to read and review this book I was wary – but I’m happy that this book surprised me in the best way possible.
Our title character Barnabas Tew is a Private Detective living in Victorian England. He’s an aspiring Sherlock Holmes with Wilfred (forgot his last name) as his John Watson. He’s had a back track record of his past clients dying due to his mistakes. He acts smarter than he actually is, but his intentions are always the best.
Barnabas gets attacked and knocked out by a mummy. When he wakes up he’s in the Underworld. The Egyptian Underworld. As it turns out, one of his past clients recommended him to Anubis – the god of the afterlife – to solve a case for him.
This concept was so interesting and creative! I never would’ve thought of anything like this and I consider myself a creative person. I mean, British detectives in the Egyptian underworld?? BRILLIANT!
I loved how the author seamlessly incorporated loads of Egyptian gods that I was familiar and unfamiliar with. The way the author portrayed them was nice and they all had their own hidden agendas which made them even more interesting to read about.
I don’t pick up mystery books often but I found this one to be well-written. The author was able to sneakily put in clues that hint at what would happen at the end of the book. He also made just about everyone look like a suspect – like a good mystery story should have.
Although I loved the humor, writing, setting, and overall plot of this book there were a few technicalities that bothered me. For example, how Barnabas and Wilfred kept on getting hungry and tired – but they’re in the underworld so they’re dead. I found this strange. Maybe it’s unique to just Egyptian mythology that I didn’t know about, but it kind of bugged me. I kept on saying “You’re dead! You don’t need food or sleep or rest, just find the one that’s guilty!”
I liked but also got annoyed with Barnabas. He really isn’t all that smart – Wilfred, his assistant – is actually much smarter and observant than he is, which I found hilarious. He always saw himself as right – something I hate in a character – but considering he’s made out to be a detective similar to Sherlock Holmes I let it slide.
I was also able to guess the person guilty of the crime within the first hundred pages, but that was just me. I’m able to easily guess a lot of things so it wasn’t necessarily a downfall on the book’s part.
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Overall this book was a very entertaining read. It was fun and adventurous and had a wonderful cast of characters that I found interesting to read about. The ending was fulfilling but open-ended so that you can easily decide whether you want to read the next book in the series or not.
For more reviews and other bookish stuff visit my blog here
August 9, 2017
This was such an interesting and unique read! I remember reading similar storylines, when I was younger, and absolutely adoring the clever blend of detective work and history. However, as I grew, I started to notice there weren’t really any or many of these for adults. This book shows that there definitely are and they are so much better than even I remember!
I loved the blend of history and PI work. As the, somewhat failing, private investigator tries his hand at helping Anubis, fix an untimely issue for the Egyptians. I loved that it was such a brilliant blend of the two, with a little hint of humour, to really make the story both fun and very interesting.
The level of detail the author put into the story, from the main character’s personalities down to the smallest historical details, really made this read for me. It kept me completely hooked and I really enjoyed diving in and trying to solve the mystery.
I do hope to read many more books by this author, should they be of this same style. I think a lot of the historical sleuth readers, both young adult and adult will grow to love this book.
**I received and arc and chose to provide my honest review.
I loved the blend of history and PI work. As the, somewhat failing, private investigator tries his hand at helping Anubis, fix an untimely issue for the Egyptians. I loved that it was such a brilliant blend of the two, with a little hint of humour, to really make the story both fun and very interesting.
The level of detail the author put into the story, from the main character’s personalities down to the smallest historical details, really made this read for me. It kept me completely hooked and I really enjoyed diving in and trying to solve the mystery.
I do hope to read many more books by this author, should they be of this same style. I think a lot of the historical sleuth readers, both young adult and adult will grow to love this book.
**I received and arc and chose to provide my honest review.
August 27, 2018
I love how clean Noonan’s storytelling is. Great pacing and easy to follow. I was never lost or confused during Barnabas and Wilfred’s adventures even though I’m not familiar with Egyptian mythology.
I wish this story was available in audiobook format as it would be great for a family road trip. Fans of the Land of Stories series would also enjoy these books.
I wish this story was available in audiobook format as it would be great for a family road trip. Fans of the Land of Stories series would also enjoy these books.
July 16, 2018
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Barnabas Tew is a very good detective in Victorian London. Or at least he tries to be, but he has had a few setbacks in the past. He can't seem to be able to keep his clients or his business alive. That is, until a great chance arises: Anubis, the great Egyptian God of the Underworld, needs him to solve a great mystery. The Scarab God has been kidnapped, and the Egyptian underworld is slowly dying without him. Along with his trusted helper, Wilfred, Barnabas finally gets the chance to show what he's worth. But among so many gods, some of whom are vicious or short-tempered, will he be able to make it?
Barnabas Tew has a very unique, and admittedly attention-grasping concept. The Barnabas-Wilfred duo comes in full contrast to Sherlock Holmes and Watson, creating hilarious circumstances for the pair. There is also a lot of humor in this story, which I highly appreciated.
However, there seems to be too much dialogue and close to no narration, which at times strongly felt like reading a theatrical or movie script instead of a book. It felt like the plot could have used more editing, as there were a lot of plot parts that just dragged on and on, without any real significance to the story. Most of the plot, actually, had nothing to do with the crime involved and just revolved around the funny dialogue, which became tiring at times.
All in all it was a good concept, in need of more editing, but still amusing.
Barnabas Tew is a very good detective in Victorian London. Or at least he tries to be, but he has had a few setbacks in the past. He can't seem to be able to keep his clients or his business alive. That is, until a great chance arises: Anubis, the great Egyptian God of the Underworld, needs him to solve a great mystery. The Scarab God has been kidnapped, and the Egyptian underworld is slowly dying without him. Along with his trusted helper, Wilfred, Barnabas finally gets the chance to show what he's worth. But among so many gods, some of whom are vicious or short-tempered, will he be able to make it?
Barnabas Tew has a very unique, and admittedly attention-grasping concept. The Barnabas-Wilfred duo comes in full contrast to Sherlock Holmes and Watson, creating hilarious circumstances for the pair. There is also a lot of humor in this story, which I highly appreciated.
However, there seems to be too much dialogue and close to no narration, which at times strongly felt like reading a theatrical or movie script instead of a book. It felt like the plot could have used more editing, as there were a lot of plot parts that just dragged on and on, without any real significance to the story. Most of the plot, actually, had nothing to do with the crime involved and just revolved around the funny dialogue, which became tiring at times.
All in all it was a good concept, in need of more editing, but still amusing.
March 14, 2019
This book seemed promising from the synopsis of it.
It started well, with Barnabas trying to model himself on the great Sherlock Holmes, which would have been an almost impossible task unless you were Mycroft Holmes!
However, when Barnabas and Wilfred visit an Egyptian exhibit in a local museum, the book began to take on a rather surreal feel.
The partners in detection find themselves dead and in Egypt's underworld, as ruled by Anubis. Their task? To hunt and locate Khepre, the Scarab beetle who pushes the sun across the heavens by day and on through elsewhere during the night.
After a while, whilst I normally enjoy novels set in Egypt, I began to feel this novel becoming a strange mix of The Hunting of The Snark and Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. There were several Egyptian gods that Barnabas and Wilfred visited to enquire after Khepre, none of whom were overly helpful. From chapter seventeen onwards, I skipped chunks of the narrative as I was getting bored with it, yet I wanted to make sure that Khepre was found.
All in all, I probably won't be buying the next book in the series.
Disappointing really, as the idea seemed promising.
It started well, with Barnabas trying to model himself on the great Sherlock Holmes, which would have been an almost impossible task unless you were Mycroft Holmes!
However, when Barnabas and Wilfred visit an Egyptian exhibit in a local museum, the book began to take on a rather surreal feel.
The partners in detection find themselves dead and in Egypt's underworld, as ruled by Anubis. Their task? To hunt and locate Khepre, the Scarab beetle who pushes the sun across the heavens by day and on through elsewhere during the night.
After a while, whilst I normally enjoy novels set in Egypt, I began to feel this novel becoming a strange mix of The Hunting of The Snark and Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. There were several Egyptian gods that Barnabas and Wilfred visited to enquire after Khepre, none of whom were overly helpful. From chapter seventeen onwards, I skipped chunks of the narrative as I was getting bored with it, yet I wanted to make sure that Khepre was found.
All in all, I probably won't be buying the next book in the series.
Disappointing really, as the idea seemed promising.
April 7, 2018
This is a highly original, quirky tale combining a Victorian detective with history and the supernatural, and featuring a hapless hero with a cleverer sidekick. I’d never read anything like it before so had no idea what to expect but was happy to just see where it would take me. Despite the lighthearted style, Columbkill Noonan has clearly done a lot of research and writes brilliantly. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys cosy crime and humour, and can't wait to see what this author will come up with next.
August 16, 2017
First off, the title is spectacular, the book cover is spectacular, and anything with a Steampunk/Victorian flavor is right up my alley. The two lead characters, Barnabas and Wilfred, are masterfully written in that perfect old English way of speaking that hearkens back to an age of politeness, well mannered actions, and flowery prose. I love that! Although, I will say that the (in my opinion), excessive use of exclamation points in the first few chapters nearly ruined it for me as a flowing read in my brain. Too, too many! (that's a joke there).
So the one thing I did learn from this experience is to make sure I read the entire synopsis of a book before jumping in. As I mentioned, I loved the title and the cover so much I went straight to Amazon to read the sample first few pages and was hooked enough to commit. So imagine my surprise when suddenly our main character is dead and speaking to someone with the head of a Falcon! Unfortunately for me, or the author I suppose, I'm not big on the 'mythology' theme in my reading...simply not my cup of tea. So once I accepted that this was indeed the journey we were on, I plunged forward. I will say it is very clever, as well as odd, the whole idea of all these characters with the heads of animals and how they relate to one another. The good news is that Barnabas and Wilfred never lost their character, and only became more endearing, which is what held the book together for me. I can't say as much for the Egyptian gods..they all spoke as you and I would, so that felt less likely and lost a touch of the magic/whimsey for me.
Now, if you're into the mythology, Egyptian/Greek/Norse god thing, and two lovable colorful characters, then this is your book...as a sequel promises more of the same.
*it's challenging here on GR, because the scale of rating is much lower than other places...to me this is a three star book. However, two stars here means it was okay, which is how I felt, but it doesn't seem fair to rate it that low...so three stars it is across the board.
So the one thing I did learn from this experience is to make sure I read the entire synopsis of a book before jumping in. As I mentioned, I loved the title and the cover so much I went straight to Amazon to read the sample first few pages and was hooked enough to commit. So imagine my surprise when suddenly our main character is dead and speaking to someone with the head of a Falcon! Unfortunately for me, or the author I suppose, I'm not big on the 'mythology' theme in my reading...simply not my cup of tea. So once I accepted that this was indeed the journey we were on, I plunged forward. I will say it is very clever, as well as odd, the whole idea of all these characters with the heads of animals and how they relate to one another. The good news is that Barnabas and Wilfred never lost their character, and only became more endearing, which is what held the book together for me. I can't say as much for the Egyptian gods..they all spoke as you and I would, so that felt less likely and lost a touch of the magic/whimsey for me.
Now, if you're into the mythology, Egyptian/Greek/Norse god thing, and two lovable colorful characters, then this is your book...as a sequel promises more of the same.
*it's challenging here on GR, because the scale of rating is much lower than other places...to me this is a three star book. However, two stars here means it was okay, which is how I felt, but it doesn't seem fair to rate it that low...so three stars it is across the board.
August 22, 2020
Barnabas Tew fancies himself a detective. In school, he became enamored of the tales of Sherlock Holmes and decided he too had the requisite skills of deduction and logic. Upon graduation, he set himself up in Marylebone, got himself an assistant and waited for cases and acclaim. Sadly, our hero, who is as wide as he is tall, and tends to go off on verbal tangents at every opportunity, didn't do as well as he expected… at least not in this life.
In BARNABAS TEW AND THE CASE OF THE MISSING SCARAB, Barnabas and his assistant, Wilfred Colby decide that without a case at hand, they will go to the museum to see the new Egyptian mummy exhibit. There was no entry fee which suited their sparse pocketbooks just fine. It is nearly closing time when Barnabas and Wilfred finally get close to seeing the main attraction. Suddenly, it would seem that they are alone in the museum. Thus begins their adventure in the Egyptian afterlife.
Along with Barnabas, Wilfred, and various Egyptian gods, there is an omniscient, if parenthetical, voice that explains much of what is said by our two English gentlemen as they navigate from one animal headed god to the next.
As is so often the case, the great detective in the story just doesn't know as much as he would like others to think he knows; therefore, he needs a stalwart companion to smooth the way and fill in the blanks. Columbkill Noonan takes us for a humorous romp through Egyptian mythology that is most unique.
There are four books in the Barnabas Tew series, and it would appear that they need to be read in order. At the end of The Case of the Missing Scarab, Barnabas and Wilfred are referred to their next case, thus one book runs into the next. So no cliffhanger, but continuity seems to dictate reading order.
In BARNABAS TEW AND THE CASE OF THE MISSING SCARAB, Barnabas and his assistant, Wilfred Colby decide that without a case at hand, they will go to the museum to see the new Egyptian mummy exhibit. There was no entry fee which suited their sparse pocketbooks just fine. It is nearly closing time when Barnabas and Wilfred finally get close to seeing the main attraction. Suddenly, it would seem that they are alone in the museum. Thus begins their adventure in the Egyptian afterlife.
Along with Barnabas, Wilfred, and various Egyptian gods, there is an omniscient, if parenthetical, voice that explains much of what is said by our two English gentlemen as they navigate from one animal headed god to the next.
As is so often the case, the great detective in the story just doesn't know as much as he would like others to think he knows; therefore, he needs a stalwart companion to smooth the way and fill in the blanks. Columbkill Noonan takes us for a humorous romp through Egyptian mythology that is most unique.
There are four books in the Barnabas Tew series, and it would appear that they need to be read in order. At the end of The Case of the Missing Scarab, Barnabas and Wilfred are referred to their next case, thus one book runs into the next. So no cliffhanger, but continuity seems to dictate reading order.
July 18, 2018
I thought this book had a great central concept, but the execution was slightly misdirected. The writing was excellent, and the humour too! But, I did find the pacing and direction of the plot to be a little slow and so not as engaging. I really wanted to LOVE it, but I certainly enjoyed it :)
September 30, 2017
This was definitely a very unique novel. The speech patterns of Barnabas Tew and his (more competent) assistant Wilfred mostly harkens back to the formality of the Victorian age with a few contemporary phrases appearing here and there which kept me on my toes as I read about their tough job in find the missing Egyptian ‘Kephre’.
The god Anubis is only one of a raft of Egyptian god and goddess characters in the story, all of them with their own foibles and traits which confuse and confound the hapless Barnabas. I’m familiar with the names of most of the deities mentioned in the story and this is a novel way to introduce them.
The god Anubis is only one of a raft of Egyptian god and goddess characters in the story, all of them with their own foibles and traits which confuse and confound the hapless Barnabas. I’m familiar with the names of most of the deities mentioned in the story and this is a novel way to introduce them.
July 18, 2018
This book has received a Discovering Diamonds Review:
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"Entertaining, light- hearted and humorous, excellent for a quick read."
Helen Hollick
founder #DDRevs
"Entertaining, light- hearted and humorous, excellent for a quick read."
December 28, 2017
Reviewed by Jetana Mutter
*This book was provided for an honest review
A good mystery has the power to engross us all- sort of like a car wreck. We can’t help but look at every angle even when all we want to do is to pull ourselves away. A great mystery not only captivates you, it immerses you within the world of the characters and keeps you guessing right up until the end. Detective stories have been a staple in mysteries since around 1841- when Edgar Allen Poe published The Murders in the Rue Morgue in a magazine; however, the most iconic of names that come to mind in a detective mystery is Sherlock Holmes, created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and known to the public in 1887. The draw of Sherlock Holmes is the quick wit, the banter between him and Dr. Watson, and their infallible deductive skills that catches the correct perpetrator in the end. Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab is a great mystery that reaches for the mighty torch that Sherlock Holmes carries- and it’s one that I believe the torch can rightfully be passed on to.
Barnabas Tew has made it his life’s mission to be a great detective like his hero, Mr. Sherlock Holmes. Reading the first tale of the adventures of Holmes and Watson as a boy made quite the impression on the young Barnabas- so much so that it marked his chosen career path. He spent all his schooling to pursue being a real life Sherlock, thinking that he would quickly rise up as the detective in Victorian London. A decade, and a string of attempts to solve a case later, Barnabas is still looking for the one case that will shoot his career on a fast track. Wilfred, his loyal assistant, knows that Barnabas is well intentioned but they still haven’t had any luck with their cases- usually someone ends up dead before they can solve the case successfully. To try to bring his employer out of his slump, Wilfred suggests that they attend the new exhibit at the museum- the Egyptian Mummy. Spending the day at the museum helps to get Barnabas’ mind off the failed cases that he has taken on, but as a result, the pair completely lose track of time and find themselves locked inside of the now closed museum. In their search for a person or an unlocked door to leave, Wilfred and Barnabas come up to some strange happenings. When Barnabas comes to, he finds himself being ferried across the River of the Dead, on his way to meet Anubis in the ancient Egyptian Underworld. Barnabas’ services have come highly recommended to Anubis from a former client of his and Anubis is convinced that Barnabas is just the right guy for the job. Khepre, the scarab beetle god that is responsible for rolling the sun across the sky and allowing nightfall to come, has gone missing… and he could be facing dismemberment. With Khepre missing, the Underworld is stuck in a perpetual high noon that will leak into the world of the Living if he cannot be found. Will Barnabas and Wilfred be able to find the missing scarab? Will they be able to solve the case and apprehend the perpetrator before it’s too late? Pick up a copy of Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab and find out!
When I first saw this book, the cover immediately drew me in. The figure of Barnabas with the pocket watch, the candelabra and Victorian designs in black and white with just a splash of color intrigued me- it’s definitely not something you see every day. I started reading it and was deeply drawn into the world of Barnabas- his struggles are something that everyone can relate to on some kind of level (not just about the detective work). When he is introduce into the ancient Egyptian Underworld, I knew that this was my kind of book. I love everything to do with ancient Egypt (I’ve always been drawn to it though I’ve never figured out why) so I relished the fact that Barnabas is set in the ancient Egyptian world. There was the perfect amount of comedic relief to the characters that makes this book stand out in so many ways. Most mysteries are done in serious tones- as most story lines such as those should be- but with Barnabas, it helps to make the affection that you develop for the characters that much more special when you add in the unintended comedy between Wilfred and Barnabas (though completely intentional from Columbkill to make the characters seem more real). Columbkill Noonan will do for Barnabas what Doyle did for Sherlock. This is the first time I have had the pleasure of reading Noonan’s work, but it most certainly will not be the last. I look forward to the next book in the Barnabas Tew series, where the two will be attempting to solve a case for the Norse God, Odin.
*This book was provided for an honest review
A good mystery has the power to engross us all- sort of like a car wreck. We can’t help but look at every angle even when all we want to do is to pull ourselves away. A great mystery not only captivates you, it immerses you within the world of the characters and keeps you guessing right up until the end. Detective stories have been a staple in mysteries since around 1841- when Edgar Allen Poe published The Murders in the Rue Morgue in a magazine; however, the most iconic of names that come to mind in a detective mystery is Sherlock Holmes, created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and known to the public in 1887. The draw of Sherlock Holmes is the quick wit, the banter between him and Dr. Watson, and their infallible deductive skills that catches the correct perpetrator in the end. Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab is a great mystery that reaches for the mighty torch that Sherlock Holmes carries- and it’s one that I believe the torch can rightfully be passed on to.
Barnabas Tew has made it his life’s mission to be a great detective like his hero, Mr. Sherlock Holmes. Reading the first tale of the adventures of Holmes and Watson as a boy made quite the impression on the young Barnabas- so much so that it marked his chosen career path. He spent all his schooling to pursue being a real life Sherlock, thinking that he would quickly rise up as the detective in Victorian London. A decade, and a string of attempts to solve a case later, Barnabas is still looking for the one case that will shoot his career on a fast track. Wilfred, his loyal assistant, knows that Barnabas is well intentioned but they still haven’t had any luck with their cases- usually someone ends up dead before they can solve the case successfully. To try to bring his employer out of his slump, Wilfred suggests that they attend the new exhibit at the museum- the Egyptian Mummy. Spending the day at the museum helps to get Barnabas’ mind off the failed cases that he has taken on, but as a result, the pair completely lose track of time and find themselves locked inside of the now closed museum. In their search for a person or an unlocked door to leave, Wilfred and Barnabas come up to some strange happenings. When Barnabas comes to, he finds himself being ferried across the River of the Dead, on his way to meet Anubis in the ancient Egyptian Underworld. Barnabas’ services have come highly recommended to Anubis from a former client of his and Anubis is convinced that Barnabas is just the right guy for the job. Khepre, the scarab beetle god that is responsible for rolling the sun across the sky and allowing nightfall to come, has gone missing… and he could be facing dismemberment. With Khepre missing, the Underworld is stuck in a perpetual high noon that will leak into the world of the Living if he cannot be found. Will Barnabas and Wilfred be able to find the missing scarab? Will they be able to solve the case and apprehend the perpetrator before it’s too late? Pick up a copy of Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab and find out!
When I first saw this book, the cover immediately drew me in. The figure of Barnabas with the pocket watch, the candelabra and Victorian designs in black and white with just a splash of color intrigued me- it’s definitely not something you see every day. I started reading it and was deeply drawn into the world of Barnabas- his struggles are something that everyone can relate to on some kind of level (not just about the detective work). When he is introduce into the ancient Egyptian Underworld, I knew that this was my kind of book. I love everything to do with ancient Egypt (I’ve always been drawn to it though I’ve never figured out why) so I relished the fact that Barnabas is set in the ancient Egyptian world. There was the perfect amount of comedic relief to the characters that makes this book stand out in so many ways. Most mysteries are done in serious tones- as most story lines such as those should be- but with Barnabas, it helps to make the affection that you develop for the characters that much more special when you add in the unintended comedy between Wilfred and Barnabas (though completely intentional from Columbkill to make the characters seem more real). Columbkill Noonan will do for Barnabas what Doyle did for Sherlock. This is the first time I have had the pleasure of reading Noonan’s work, but it most certainly will not be the last. I look forward to the next book in the Barnabas Tew series, where the two will be attempting to solve a case for the Norse God, Odin.
November 1, 2017
I love a good detective story as a general rule. When presented with the chance to read a book set around the time the Sherlock Holmes stories were published about a reader of them who admired them so much he desired to become a detective, I thought it sounded like a lot of fun. Add to that the fact that the fact that the summary promised one of his clients to be an Egyptian god and I was more than a little intrigued!
Barnabas Tew appears as something of a bumbling sweetheart, somewhere between a pitiable character and a bit of an annoying one. He was enraptured with the Holmes stories so much that, straight out of college, he set about opening up his own detective agency with the intention of being the best one in the country, nay, the world! Ten years later and things are not going as expected. He fears that he might be more suited to the Dr. Watson role in things and his own assistant, Wilfred, would be a better chimney sweep.
His admiration of Holmes is understandable, but I could see where his admiration and his imitation of his hero turned out to be his failing. He doesn't have the same need to pursue justice that I remember Holmes having, as evidenced when Barnabas arrives at the conclusion to at least two of his cases later and doesn't see fit to pursue them for at least justice without financial reward.
He does really keep trying though. How else would you explain still being at the game after ten years of, shall we say, less than stellar performance? Things certainly chance for our main character when he finds himself not of the living any longer and in the employ Anubis, Egyptian God of the Dead!
The absurdity of passing out and waking to find oneself first dead and second in a boat on your way to the Underworld is enough to make anyone rather upset, but I thought Barnabas took it rather well all things considered. From here on out we followed our intrepid detective as he endeavors to solve a mystery that is quite unlike anything he, or even the famous Mr. Holmes, has ever has the fortune to come across.
In this story the writing style was generally well paced. I think I found myself wishing certain passages were a bit shorter so as to get to the point, but overall it wasn't so bad. Barnabas, difficult as he was to love some of the time, was generally a goodhearted man and something of a bookworm.
The Egyptian pantheon was a good cast of characters. I think this story might be one for older fans of Rick Riordan's books, fascinated as he is with Greek, Norse, and Egyptian gods, and especially considering the new client that Anubis procures for Barnabas and Wilfred at the close of the book. Will there be a second book? I'd certainly like to think so; there's a cliffhanger that's got me wondering what sort of mischief Barnabas and Wilfred will be facing in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Barnabas Tew appears as something of a bumbling sweetheart, somewhere between a pitiable character and a bit of an annoying one. He was enraptured with the Holmes stories so much that, straight out of college, he set about opening up his own detective agency with the intention of being the best one in the country, nay, the world! Ten years later and things are not going as expected. He fears that he might be more suited to the Dr. Watson role in things and his own assistant, Wilfred, would be a better chimney sweep.
His admiration of Holmes is understandable, but I could see where his admiration and his imitation of his hero turned out to be his failing. He doesn't have the same need to pursue justice that I remember Holmes having, as evidenced when Barnabas arrives at the conclusion to at least two of his cases later and doesn't see fit to pursue them for at least justice without financial reward.
He does really keep trying though. How else would you explain still being at the game after ten years of, shall we say, less than stellar performance? Things certainly chance for our main character when he finds himself not of the living any longer and in the employ Anubis, Egyptian God of the Dead!
The absurdity of passing out and waking to find oneself first dead and second in a boat on your way to the Underworld is enough to make anyone rather upset, but I thought Barnabas took it rather well all things considered. From here on out we followed our intrepid detective as he endeavors to solve a mystery that is quite unlike anything he, or even the famous Mr. Holmes, has ever has the fortune to come across.
In this story the writing style was generally well paced. I think I found myself wishing certain passages were a bit shorter so as to get to the point, but overall it wasn't so bad. Barnabas, difficult as he was to love some of the time, was generally a goodhearted man and something of a bookworm.
The Egyptian pantheon was a good cast of characters. I think this story might be one for older fans of Rick Riordan's books, fascinated as he is with Greek, Norse, and Egyptian gods, and especially considering the new client that Anubis procures for Barnabas and Wilfred at the close of the book. Will there be a second book? I'd certainly like to think so; there's a cliffhanger that's got me wondering what sort of mischief Barnabas and Wilfred will be facing in the future.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2018
First off, I just want to congratulate Columbkill Noonan for having the best author name to appear on my blog so far – isn’t it fabulous! I have no idea if that is her real name or just a pen name but I really hope it is the former.
Now to the book, which might just be one of the maddest but most fun books I have ever read. I mean, the plot is literally insane and I wonder if she jotted it down on the back of a cocktail napkin after a heavy night on the creme de menthe but if you can get your head around that and run with the sheer lunacy of the idea, this is a really entertaining read, particularly for anyone who is interested in myths and legends and Egyptology.
The hero of the book is Sherlock Holmes-wannabe, Barnabas Tew who aspires to be a private detective as astute and famous as his literary hero. He has the clothing, including deerstalker, he has the Victorian setting, he has his Watson in the shape of his erstwhile sidekick, Wilfred. Sadly, he is lacking Holmes’ sharp intellect (although he himself is oblivious to this deficiency) which has led to a lack os success in his cases so far. In fact, an alarming number of his clients have ended up dead. He is ever hopeful that his luck will change though, and his adventures in the Egyptian Land of the Dead may prove the turning point.
I absolutely loved the characters in this book, the author has drawn them brilliantly. The Victorian setting, dress and speech are pitched perfectly for authenticity (with a few minor colloquial slip-ups, possibly but I found them forgivable in the grand scheme of the book) and they were great fun. Barnabas has grand ideas which sadly fall short and it is really his assistant, Wilfred, who is the brains of the outfit, though neither of them seem aware of this and the author does a fabulous job of fully drawing the humour from this relationship. It reminded me of Hong Kong Phooey and his cat, Spot, who was the real superhero of every show (I apologise to Columbkill, whom I am sure did not spend the 1970’s watching British children’s Saturday morning cartoons and anyone not old enough to remember this show – it’s worth a catch up online if you’ve never seen it!)
The pair get into loads of scrapes and ridiculous situations, partly due to the ludicrous setting of the book and partly due to Barnabas’ often intemperate outbursts and the book has a lot of laugh out loud moments. It wasn’t perfect. There were parts that could have done with more editing to avoid superfluous phrases and repetition that slowed the pacing and there were so many twists and turns that by the end I had started to get confused to the point where I was in danger of no longer caring who had committed the crime. However, my overall experience was a good one, the book was original, funny and engaging with a really novel concept and fun characters. Columbkill is tackling Norse mythology next and I am intrigued to see where she goes with that.
Now to the book, which might just be one of the maddest but most fun books I have ever read. I mean, the plot is literally insane and I wonder if she jotted it down on the back of a cocktail napkin after a heavy night on the creme de menthe but if you can get your head around that and run with the sheer lunacy of the idea, this is a really entertaining read, particularly for anyone who is interested in myths and legends and Egyptology.
The hero of the book is Sherlock Holmes-wannabe, Barnabas Tew who aspires to be a private detective as astute and famous as his literary hero. He has the clothing, including deerstalker, he has the Victorian setting, he has his Watson in the shape of his erstwhile sidekick, Wilfred. Sadly, he is lacking Holmes’ sharp intellect (although he himself is oblivious to this deficiency) which has led to a lack os success in his cases so far. In fact, an alarming number of his clients have ended up dead. He is ever hopeful that his luck will change though, and his adventures in the Egyptian Land of the Dead may prove the turning point.
I absolutely loved the characters in this book, the author has drawn them brilliantly. The Victorian setting, dress and speech are pitched perfectly for authenticity (with a few minor colloquial slip-ups, possibly but I found them forgivable in the grand scheme of the book) and they were great fun. Barnabas has grand ideas which sadly fall short and it is really his assistant, Wilfred, who is the brains of the outfit, though neither of them seem aware of this and the author does a fabulous job of fully drawing the humour from this relationship. It reminded me of Hong Kong Phooey and his cat, Spot, who was the real superhero of every show (I apologise to Columbkill, whom I am sure did not spend the 1970’s watching British children’s Saturday morning cartoons and anyone not old enough to remember this show – it’s worth a catch up online if you’ve never seen it!)
The pair get into loads of scrapes and ridiculous situations, partly due to the ludicrous setting of the book and partly due to Barnabas’ often intemperate outbursts and the book has a lot of laugh out loud moments. It wasn’t perfect. There were parts that could have done with more editing to avoid superfluous phrases and repetition that slowed the pacing and there were so many twists and turns that by the end I had started to get confused to the point where I was in danger of no longer caring who had committed the crime. However, my overall experience was a good one, the book was original, funny and engaging with a really novel concept and fun characters. Columbkill is tackling Norse mythology next and I am intrigued to see where she goes with that.
April 5, 2019
I don't know how many books I have read in the mystery/detective genre, but I have found out that each and every book are unique to the authors' style, and that's so refreshing. With this book I found yet another book in genre that is so different from all the others I have read, including the classics.
This is the first book in the series, so we get to met the main character Barnabas Tew, and he's a private detective. The funny thing is, he's struggling. As I keep reading the book and get to know more about Barnabas, I found the all situation and his thought quite hilarious. That humor that Columbkill added to her book gave the plot some softness and uniqueness that I enjoyed.
But that's not the only unique thing about this book. When you read the blurb you see that there is this paranormal/fantasy kind of thing going on, since Anubis, the Egyptian God of the Dead, makes an appearance. When I read that, I didn't know what to think, but once I read the book... It works!
The reason why I'm using the word 'unique' a lot is because I don't know what else to say to describe the book. It was a different take on the usual private detective book, an unexpected story, with characters that leave a mark in the plot, with a storyline quite intriguing because, let's be honest, when was the last time you read a mystery/detective book with an Egyptian God as the client?
And if that paranormal aspect of the book hasn't convince you to read the book, can I just remind you that there is humor in the book?... Image Barnabas, an Englishmen, private detective with big dreams, but whose abilities are not that over the top, and Wilfred, Barnabas' loyal assistant and an interesting character, with perfect manners. And then imagine them going to the Underworld to find the Scarab God, who is responsible for rolling the sun across the sky each day.
Can you imagine the journey to uncover each mystery and in the end solving the case. Imagine how much troubles Barnabas would put himself (and Wilfred) in? Doesn't that sound fun? It does (and it was) sound fun to me. I went on a journey too, but to me is was a journey of laughter and having fun with Barnabas actions and how Wilfred would react to what's going on. I think I could see this book series turn into a TV show. I would certainly watch it.
Because I find Egyptian Mythology very curious, I was excited to know the authors take on that. I would love to know more about it, but the way the characters, the Gods, were portrait made the book even more fun to read.
I do recommend this book and I can't wait to read the next adventure this duo will have, and what kind of problems will happen.
[This review is part of a blog tour hosted by the amazing Rachel, at Rachel's Random Resources, so I want to thank her and Columbkill Noonan for the eCopy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
This is the first book in the series, so we get to met the main character Barnabas Tew, and he's a private detective. The funny thing is, he's struggling. As I keep reading the book and get to know more about Barnabas, I found the all situation and his thought quite hilarious. That humor that Columbkill added to her book gave the plot some softness and uniqueness that I enjoyed.
But that's not the only unique thing about this book. When you read the blurb you see that there is this paranormal/fantasy kind of thing going on, since Anubis, the Egyptian God of the Dead, makes an appearance. When I read that, I didn't know what to think, but once I read the book... It works!
The reason why I'm using the word 'unique' a lot is because I don't know what else to say to describe the book. It was a different take on the usual private detective book, an unexpected story, with characters that leave a mark in the plot, with a storyline quite intriguing because, let's be honest, when was the last time you read a mystery/detective book with an Egyptian God as the client?
And if that paranormal aspect of the book hasn't convince you to read the book, can I just remind you that there is humor in the book?... Image Barnabas, an Englishmen, private detective with big dreams, but whose abilities are not that over the top, and Wilfred, Barnabas' loyal assistant and an interesting character, with perfect manners. And then imagine them going to the Underworld to find the Scarab God, who is responsible for rolling the sun across the sky each day.
Can you imagine the journey to uncover each mystery and in the end solving the case. Imagine how much troubles Barnabas would put himself (and Wilfred) in? Doesn't that sound fun? It does (and it was) sound fun to me. I went on a journey too, but to me is was a journey of laughter and having fun with Barnabas actions and how Wilfred would react to what's going on. I think I could see this book series turn into a TV show. I would certainly watch it.
Because I find Egyptian Mythology very curious, I was excited to know the authors take on that. I would love to know more about it, but the way the characters, the Gods, were portrait made the book even more fun to read.
I do recommend this book and I can't wait to read the next adventure this duo will have, and what kind of problems will happen.
[This review is part of a blog tour hosted by the amazing Rachel, at Rachel's Random Resources, so I want to thank her and Columbkill Noonan for the eCopy of this book in exchange for an honest review.]
July 29, 2018
I love Egyptian history so I was really excited to read Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab. This unique and unusual book completely exceeded my expectations and, although it won’t be to everyone’s taste, I have already recommended it to one of my colleagues who enjoys reading about mythology.
I found Barnabas both exasperating and hilarious; I certainly wouldn’t have had the patience that his sidekick Wilfred has. I couldn't help but imagine Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer playing Barnabas and Wilfred; if Reeves & Mortimer did Sherlock Holmes it would probably look something like this. Barnabas is a completely incompetent private detective and it is just his luck that the one case he did solve gets him recommended to Anubis, the jackal headed Egyptian God of the Dead. Anubis wants Barnabas and Wilfred to solve the mystery of the missing scarab beetle, Khepre, who is responsible for rolling the sun across the sky each day. With Khepre missing, the sun is stuck in the sky and the unbearable heat threatens to bring drought and starvation to the people of the underworld.
What follows is a veritable who’s who of the Egyptian underworld as we meet several gods and goddesses, some I had heard of and some I hadn’t. I don’t know a great deal about Egyptian mythology, but I certainly know a little more now. I loved how the characteristics of each deity were described; it brought the whole book to life as I visualised the snapping snout of crocodile headed Sobek and the cow headed goddess Hathor, who reminded me of Lewis Carroll’s Queen of Hearts, with Barnabas trying to be careful not to ignite her wrath.
The whole book actually does have a feel of Alice in Wonderland about it; rather than Alice falling down the rabbit hole, Barnabas and Wilfred fall into the underworld. Although the Egyptian gods are based on real myth, Columbkill Noonan has given them a cartoon like quirkiness that had me half expecting the Mad Hatter to appear and announce that it was time for tea. I think this book will definitely appeal to fans of Alice in Wonderland because of the almost dreamlike quality of the writing; like Alice did, I expected Barnabas to wake up at any moment and realise it was all a dream...or was it? It’s certainly a book that readers off all ages will enjoy as I didn’t spot any naughty bits or swearing.
Quirky, original and completely enthralling; my only disappointment was that I reached the end too quickly. I enjoyed Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab so much that I am already looking forward to the next book.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I found Barnabas both exasperating and hilarious; I certainly wouldn’t have had the patience that his sidekick Wilfred has. I couldn't help but imagine Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer playing Barnabas and Wilfred; if Reeves & Mortimer did Sherlock Holmes it would probably look something like this. Barnabas is a completely incompetent private detective and it is just his luck that the one case he did solve gets him recommended to Anubis, the jackal headed Egyptian God of the Dead. Anubis wants Barnabas and Wilfred to solve the mystery of the missing scarab beetle, Khepre, who is responsible for rolling the sun across the sky each day. With Khepre missing, the sun is stuck in the sky and the unbearable heat threatens to bring drought and starvation to the people of the underworld.
What follows is a veritable who’s who of the Egyptian underworld as we meet several gods and goddesses, some I had heard of and some I hadn’t. I don’t know a great deal about Egyptian mythology, but I certainly know a little more now. I loved how the characteristics of each deity were described; it brought the whole book to life as I visualised the snapping snout of crocodile headed Sobek and the cow headed goddess Hathor, who reminded me of Lewis Carroll’s Queen of Hearts, with Barnabas trying to be careful not to ignite her wrath.
The whole book actually does have a feel of Alice in Wonderland about it; rather than Alice falling down the rabbit hole, Barnabas and Wilfred fall into the underworld. Although the Egyptian gods are based on real myth, Columbkill Noonan has given them a cartoon like quirkiness that had me half expecting the Mad Hatter to appear and announce that it was time for tea. I think this book will definitely appeal to fans of Alice in Wonderland because of the almost dreamlike quality of the writing; like Alice did, I expected Barnabas to wake up at any moment and realise it was all a dream...or was it? It’s certainly a book that readers off all ages will enjoy as I didn’t spot any naughty bits or swearing.
Quirky, original and completely enthralling; my only disappointment was that I reached the end too quickly. I enjoyed Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab so much that I am already looking forward to the next book.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 13, 2017
A Victorian London detective story with a touch of Egyptian mythology. I say a touch because other than the names, and some settings there really isn’t a lot of Egyptian content in the story. The story definitely has a distinctly mystery and case solving feel like those of Sherlock Holmes.
This was a different pace for me, but an enjoyable one. What I liked the most was the vocabulary and sentence structure with which the two main characters spoke and the majority of the book was written in. It has the feel of the older English writing with touches of modern writing intermingled. I definitely loved seeing words like vociferously, unconscionable, deferentially, and similarly less commonly used words used so abundantly throughout the text. It made my little logophile heart so happy.
There were a couple of things that dinged this book for me. The first being the extent to which the “silliness” of our main characters went. For the first three fourths of the book I had a hard time believing the two were capable of being able to do much of anything, let alone solve a mystery/case.The second thing I had a hard time with was deciphering who the intended audience for this book is. It has the air and feel of a children’s book (the silliness and downplaying of normally serious events to a point of being more comical) but not only is some of the content not entirely great for children (crocodiles eating people from a village that got flooded, for example) but the vocabulary makes this a higher reading level than is normal for a children’s book. So I am confused about who this book is for. I’m not saying an adult cannot entertain the silliness, and carefree feel of this book, I am merely saying it was unusual and therefore slightly off putting for me. While I am a lover for farfetched and fantastical stories, I do prefer that there be some believability to the world or realm that the story takes place in. This one was just shy of that for me.
All that being said, I did enjoy this quick read. I think keeping the main characters more perceptive with their wits about them can make all the difference in how the next book in the series will be perceived. If your looking for a lighthearted, quick detective story read then this is definitely one to consider.
Full review: wanderinglectiophile.wordpress.com/20...
This was a different pace for me, but an enjoyable one. What I liked the most was the vocabulary and sentence structure with which the two main characters spoke and the majority of the book was written in. It has the feel of the older English writing with touches of modern writing intermingled. I definitely loved seeing words like vociferously, unconscionable, deferentially, and similarly less commonly used words used so abundantly throughout the text. It made my little logophile heart so happy.
There were a couple of things that dinged this book for me. The first being the extent to which the “silliness” of our main characters went. For the first three fourths of the book I had a hard time believing the two were capable of being able to do much of anything, let alone solve a mystery/case.The second thing I had a hard time with was deciphering who the intended audience for this book is. It has the air and feel of a children’s book (the silliness and downplaying of normally serious events to a point of being more comical) but not only is some of the content not entirely great for children (crocodiles eating people from a village that got flooded, for example) but the vocabulary makes this a higher reading level than is normal for a children’s book. So I am confused about who this book is for. I’m not saying an adult cannot entertain the silliness, and carefree feel of this book, I am merely saying it was unusual and therefore slightly off putting for me. While I am a lover for farfetched and fantastical stories, I do prefer that there be some believability to the world or realm that the story takes place in. This one was just shy of that for me.
All that being said, I did enjoy this quick read. I think keeping the main characters more perceptive with their wits about them can make all the difference in how the next book in the series will be perceived. If your looking for a lighthearted, quick detective story read then this is definitely one to consider.
Full review: wanderinglectiophile.wordpress.com/20...
June 28, 2018
Note: I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab is a comedy of errors following Barnabas and his assistant Wilfred. They are detectives, styling themselves in the manner of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson, although they’re not nearly as successful - in fact, they’re actually quite terrible at the job, and several of their clients have died as a result of their botched investigations. When one of their clients passes away after using a magical ankh, Barnabas and Wilfred are recommended to a new client for their work. This client is, surprisingly, Anubis, Egyptian god of the dead. Khepre, the god that rolls the sun across the sky, is missing - and Barnabas is tasked with finding out where he is. Across the underworld Barnabas and Wilfred encounter great and minor gods, multiple adventures, and ultimately the truth of what happened to Khepre, with great risk to themselves.
This book was a bit fun, following Barnabas and Wilfred on their adventures and seeing them interact with different gods and creatures. The mystery itself wasn’t too compelling in my opinion, I didn’t find myself getting invested in the book, but there were moments where the antics of the detectives made me laugh. I have always liked Ancient Egypt, so it was interesting to see a Victorian detective and his assistant navigate that culture, one so different from their own. The settings were very descriptive and interesting, so I liked reading those portions of the text.
That being said, I think the protagonists were so bad at what they did, and so dense, that at times it became quite annoying how obtuse they were, Wilfred less so than Barnabas. I struggled at times to keep on reading the book because I didn’t find it all that compelling, but I think that just happens to be a matter of taste. There were a few mistakes that could’ve been fixed by good editing as well, although I’m not sure if the copy of the book provided to me through Netgalley was a finalized version or before proofs. The ending of the book led right into a sequel, but I don’t think I would find myself picking that up.
Barnabas Tew and the Case of the Missing Scarab is a comedy of errors following Barnabas and his assistant Wilfred. They are detectives, styling themselves in the manner of Sherlock Holmes and John Watson, although they’re not nearly as successful - in fact, they’re actually quite terrible at the job, and several of their clients have died as a result of their botched investigations. When one of their clients passes away after using a magical ankh, Barnabas and Wilfred are recommended to a new client for their work. This client is, surprisingly, Anubis, Egyptian god of the dead. Khepre, the god that rolls the sun across the sky, is missing - and Barnabas is tasked with finding out where he is. Across the underworld Barnabas and Wilfred encounter great and minor gods, multiple adventures, and ultimately the truth of what happened to Khepre, with great risk to themselves.
This book was a bit fun, following Barnabas and Wilfred on their adventures and seeing them interact with different gods and creatures. The mystery itself wasn’t too compelling in my opinion, I didn’t find myself getting invested in the book, but there were moments where the antics of the detectives made me laugh. I have always liked Ancient Egypt, so it was interesting to see a Victorian detective and his assistant navigate that culture, one so different from their own. The settings were very descriptive and interesting, so I liked reading those portions of the text.
That being said, I think the protagonists were so bad at what they did, and so dense, that at times it became quite annoying how obtuse they were, Wilfred less so than Barnabas. I struggled at times to keep on reading the book because I didn’t find it all that compelling, but I think that just happens to be a matter of taste. There were a few mistakes that could’ve been fixed by good editing as well, although I’m not sure if the copy of the book provided to me through Netgalley was a finalized version or before proofs. The ending of the book led right into a sequel, but I don’t think I would find myself picking that up.
February 19, 2018
It has been a while since I read a story targeted to a younger audience (let’s say, to a juvenile reader); because of that, I didn’t really know what to expect from this small book. Even if I can’t tell you what my expectations were at the beginning, I can tell what the outcome ended up being - a very funny, intriguing and entertaining detective fiction.
There were three main reasons that highly contributed to my enjoying of this book: the mystery itself, the british humor and the egyptian mythology. And, of course, the main plot: one of the egyptian gods - Kheper - has gone missing and it’s now on the hands of two very British, silly, brave detectives to find him while dealing with the fact that they are now dead and have to live in the egyptian afterlife.
The passing is quite fast and the descriptions and backstories of the various gods - from Anubis to Seth, Toth, Anti, Hathor, etc - match the real myths that are studied in current days, meaning that we end up learning some interesting trivia.
However, I can understand why some people would get annoyed with the dialogs of the two protagonists - they are way too british and sometimes they can get unnecessarily long, dumb and repetitive. And that is also the main reason why I didn’t give this book the maximum star rating.
In the end, it was a very entertaining reading and a pleasant surprise. The idea is very creative and I look forward to read more adventures of Barnabas and Wilfred in the future!
P.S. - This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Columbkill, for the opportunity :)
There were three main reasons that highly contributed to my enjoying of this book: the mystery itself, the british humor and the egyptian mythology. And, of course, the main plot: one of the egyptian gods - Kheper - has gone missing and it’s now on the hands of two very British, silly, brave detectives to find him while dealing with the fact that they are now dead and have to live in the egyptian afterlife.
The passing is quite fast and the descriptions and backstories of the various gods - from Anubis to Seth, Toth, Anti, Hathor, etc - match the real myths that are studied in current days, meaning that we end up learning some interesting trivia.
However, I can understand why some people would get annoyed with the dialogs of the two protagonists - they are way too british and sometimes they can get unnecessarily long, dumb and repetitive. And that is also the main reason why I didn’t give this book the maximum star rating.
In the end, it was a very entertaining reading and a pleasant surprise. The idea is very creative and I look forward to read more adventures of Barnabas and Wilfred in the future!
P.S. - This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, Columbkill, for the opportunity :)
July 27, 2018
I really enjoyed this book as it certainly is a departure from standard detective novels. The main character Barnabus Tew wants to be the next celebrated detective following on from Sherlock Holmes. However his powers of deduction aren’t as finely attuned and his clients have a knack of dying while he is investigating their cases. He is assisted by Wilfred Colby, who he thinks of as intellectually inferior to himself, but as the book unfolds, we see that Wilfred, is more than capable when it comes to detecting.
Down on their luck and unable to pay their rent, they are about to find themselves involved in their strangest case yet, as they find themselves summoned to the Egyptian underworld to assist God of the dead, Anubis.
I found this book extremely amusing as the pair deal with the peculiarities of individual Egyptian Gods in an effort to be returned to Victorian England. Columbkill successfully combines historical fact into a humorous whodunit and those who have knowledge of their Egyptian Gods will not be disappointed by their portrayal in this book. It is obvious that a lot of research has gone into this book, which adds to its authenticity.
Although Barnabus is lacking in obvious powers of deduction and is prone to running around in circles (literally), he and Wilfred endeavour to save Egypt from mischievous Gods and in doing so face, mice people, crocodiles and evil snakes.
I really enjoyed this book and found myself learning about Egyptian Gods, whilst enjoying a mystery, I look forward to reading the next in the series, Barnabus Tew And The Case Of The Nine Worlds.
Down on their luck and unable to pay their rent, they are about to find themselves involved in their strangest case yet, as they find themselves summoned to the Egyptian underworld to assist God of the dead, Anubis.
I found this book extremely amusing as the pair deal with the peculiarities of individual Egyptian Gods in an effort to be returned to Victorian England. Columbkill successfully combines historical fact into a humorous whodunit and those who have knowledge of their Egyptian Gods will not be disappointed by their portrayal in this book. It is obvious that a lot of research has gone into this book, which adds to its authenticity.
Although Barnabus is lacking in obvious powers of deduction and is prone to running around in circles (literally), he and Wilfred endeavour to save Egypt from mischievous Gods and in doing so face, mice people, crocodiles and evil snakes.
I really enjoyed this book and found myself learning about Egyptian Gods, whilst enjoying a mystery, I look forward to reading the next in the series, Barnabus Tew And The Case Of The Nine Worlds.
May 26, 2018
This is quite a different concept (to me at least) for a cozy/mystery. The lead detective, Barnabus, is killed within the first few chapters (by a mummy) and is taken to the Egyptian underworld because Anubis needs his help to determine who kidnapped Khepra, the scarab beetle that controls the sun. His sidekick, Wilfred, is also killed (also by the same mummy) and delivered to the underworld.
There are quite a few upsides to this book - education on Egyptian mythology and the various gods that ruled their world; a different landscape for a mystery (some say it is steampunk or Victorian); and Sherlock Holmes type characters. (Of course, the resemblance to Sherlock Holmes ends with the fact that they are detectives.) And the mystery led me in circles and I didn't figure it out until it was revealed. There were some clues along the way but not too many that made it easy to figure out too early in the book. I loved how the female gods "saved the day" near the end. I won't say much and who, but it shows you should never count a woman out, even if she is a god!
I am not fond of Barnabus' character. He's a bumbling detective and I wonder how he ever solved any cases. Perhaps that is part of his charm? Wilfred is slightly better and at least he tries to keep Barnabus on track. I do wish there had been more of a description of the underworld. I really didn't have the best idea of what it might look like other than a river, sandy areas, and homes of the various gods.
I give it 3 1/2 stars
There are quite a few upsides to this book - education on Egyptian mythology and the various gods that ruled their world; a different landscape for a mystery (some say it is steampunk or Victorian); and Sherlock Holmes type characters. (Of course, the resemblance to Sherlock Holmes ends with the fact that they are detectives.) And the mystery led me in circles and I didn't figure it out until it was revealed. There were some clues along the way but not too many that made it easy to figure out too early in the book. I loved how the female gods "saved the day" near the end. I won't say much and who, but it shows you should never count a woman out, even if she is a god!
I am not fond of Barnabus' character. He's a bumbling detective and I wonder how he ever solved any cases. Perhaps that is part of his charm? Wilfred is slightly better and at least he tries to keep Barnabus on track. I do wish there had been more of a description of the underworld. I really didn't have the best idea of what it might look like other than a river, sandy areas, and homes of the various gods.
I give it 3 1/2 stars
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