In the second book documenting the trials and tribulations of Gabriel Ward KC, our much loved barrister is tasked with a particularly odd puzzle. Several colleagues have been gifted body parts from an as yet known corpse, each with little notes alluding to some nefarious dealing. But one parcels brings fatal consequences and Gabriel must take action, albeit in his very genial manner, to find the culprit. Couple that with one of the most gossip-driven cases of his career and he’s got a lot on his hands. This is a perfectly pitched novel, set at the turn of the 20th century and peppered with plenty of clues to get your grey cells whirring. It’s very difficult not to have a fondness for Gabriel and long may his adventures last.

I think I’ve found a new favourite character!

Sir Gabriel Ward is wonderful. His idiosyncrasies are charming and his humour and decency shine throughout the story.

This book takes place a few months after the events of book one: A Case of Mice and Murder. Once again Sir Gabriel has been tasked with discretely investigating some unpleasant happenings in Inner Temple and is assisted by his unlikely friend Constable Maurice Wright. At the same time he is preparing to represent a theatre darling in a libel case so his attention is very much divided.

The two cases are well devised and kept me engaged trying to predict what would happen next. The ending was deeply satisfying and I can’t wait to read more in the series! Highly recommended!

*** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher ***