Sepulchre Street

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

2 stars. Muddled storytelling with a writing style I didn't enjoy. Expected a country house mystery and got a crime thriller instead.

The NetGalley description sadly didn't make it very clear that this was the 4th book in the series or that this was leaning way more towards a thriller than a whodunnit. I probably wouldn't have picked it up if I had known either of those things. While it stands on its own pretty well, I'm sure readers who have read the entire series and are familiar with and enjoy the characters will get more out of it.

This is also my first experience with Martin Edwards' fiction writing. I had only been familiar with his non-fiction, which I've enjoyed and will continue to read. Sadly, the same can't be said for this series.

Book Review: Sepulchre Street by Martin Edwards

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

Martin Edwards delivers another captivating installment in his compelling series with “Sepulchre Street.” Set in 1930s London, this gripping novel follows the enigmatic Rachel Savernake as she unravels the mystery behind renowned artist Damaris Gethin's puzzling death.

The story opens at Damaris Gethin's latest exhibition, a spectacle featuring live models posing as infamous killers. Rachel Savernake, perplexed by her invitation, finds herself cornered by the artist herself. Damaris, moments before taking her own life on stage, implores Rachel to solve her murder. As the lights go out and the guillotine falls, a multitude of questions arise: Why would Damaris choose to end her life? What did she mean by “solve my murder”?

Edwards expertly weaves a complex web of intrigue and mystery, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. His writing is phenomenal, capturing the essence of the 1930s and creating an atmospheric backdrop that immerses readers in the story. The pacing is well-crafted, with each twist and turn propelling the narrative forward.

One of the standout aspects of “Sepulchre Street” is the character development. Rachel Savernake remains a compelling enigma, with her sharp intellect and mysterious past. Edwards skillfully peels back layers of her persona, keeping readers intrigued and eager to uncover more about her. The supporting characters are equally engaging, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.

The plot is intricately constructed, offering readers a challenging puzzle to solve alongside Rachel. Edwards provides ample clues throughout the book for those daring enough to piece them together. Each revelation brings us closer to understanding the truth behind Damaris Gethin's death, heightening the suspense until the final pages.

Furthermore, the cover design for “Sepulchre Street” is truly remarkable. It captures the essence of the story and serves as a visual representation of the atmospheric setting within the book. The cover designer deserves high praise for their exceptional work.

In conclusion, “Sepulchre Street” is another solid addition to Martin Edwards' series. With its phenomenal writing, well-paced plot, and intriguing characters, this book is sure to captivate fans of historical mysteries. Edwards continues to deliver gripping who-dunnits that keep readers guessing until the very end. I eagerly anticipate what he has in store for us next.

Disclosure: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.