Review of The Malvern Murders by Kerry Tombs
As a lover of historical mysteries, the Victorian era always seems to tantalize with its blend of charm, intrigue, and a touch of the macabre. When I stumbled upon The Malvern Murders, the first book in Kerry Tombs’ Inspector Ravenscroft Detective Mysteries series, I couldn’t resist diving into a world where murder clashed with the elegance of tea parties and horse-drawn carriages. From the very first pages, I was drawn into the atmospheric setting of Malvern, 1887, where each word seemed to waft with the scent of dampened earth and whispered secrets.
Inspector Samuel Ravenscroft is a refreshingly complex character. When we meet him, he’s not the archetypal hero – instead, he’s an asthmatic detective, burdened by a less-than-stellar record with the London Metropolitan Police. His banishment to the picturesque spa town of Malvern initially feels like a punishment, but it swiftly transforms into a stage for unexpected chaos. His journey from a perceived failure to an inquisitive detective creates a compelling arc that resonated deeply with me. The way Tombs portrays Ravenscroft’s vulnerabilities, paired with his determination, evokes a sense of empathy—he’s someone we can root for.
The intriguing plot revolves around the murder of Jabez Pitzer during a dinner party attended by our beleaguered inspector. The layers of mystery unfold gracefully, giving readers just enough tantalizing clues and red herrings to keep us guessing. The character of the mysterious woman in black, who links the victims, adds a delicious element of suspense, echoing the gothic undertones often found in Victorian literature. It felt like taking a mental stroll through a fog-laden London alley, where danger lurks at every corner.
Tombs’ writing style is equally engaging, rich in vivid imagery and occasional sly humor, which serves to balance the darker themes of the story. His attention to historical detail lends authenticity; I could almost hear the echoing laughter of ladies in their bonnets and sense the acrid smoke of coal fires in the air. While some readers have noted a slower pace, I found it in sync with the era’s sensibilities, allowing for moments of reflection amidst the intrigue. The dialogue sparkled as Ravenscroft and Constable Tom Crabb navigated the complexities of their investigation, reminiscent of banter from classic detective tales.
One of my favorite quotes from the book captures Ravenscroft’s essence perfectly: “Sometimes, the past is not just a shadow; it’s a specter that guides you.” This resonated deeply with me, reminding us all that our histories, while often tinged with regret or fear, can drive us toward courage and clarity.
If you enjoy tales steeped in Victorian atmosphere and complex characters wrapped in mystery, this book is for you. It beckons fans of M.R.C. Kasasian and E.S. Thomson, offering a thrilling escape into a world where life and death dance a perilous waltz.
In conclusion, The Malvern Murders left me not only engaged but craving more of Inspector Ravenscroft’s upcoming escapades. It’s a poignant reminder that the darkness often coexists beautifully with the light. I found this book to be a delightful addition to my reading journey, and I eagerly await what awaits Ravenscroft next in the series.