Month: November 2025

The Hidden City by Charles Finch

On By BarbaraIn Audiobook, Barb's Reviews, Historical Mystery, Part of a Series, Victorian Era (1837-1901)1 Comment

The Hidden City: A Charles Lenox Mystery, Book 15Barbara’s rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Series: Charles Lenox #15
Publication Date: 11/4/25
Period: Victorian – 1879 London
Number of Pages: 304 (Audiobook 8 hrs 8 Mins)

Hidden City is an excellent addition to the Charles Lenox series. It delivers a solid mystery while exploring new tensions in the Lenox household surrounding the suffragette movement. Lady Jane, a staunch supporter of the cause, finds her views creating friction within aristocratic society — even among other women. I also found it compelling to see Lenox grappling with the realities of aging and realizing he’s not entirely prepared for it.

Still recovering from the near-fatal injury he suffered during his last case in America, Lenox receives a note from a retired retainer he’s very fond of. She believes something odd is happening in her rooms, possibly tied to a murder that occurred there years ago. Pushing past his malaise, Lenox begins to investigate and soon uncovers a far larger conspiracy than he imagined. With help from old allies who know London’s hidden corners, he follows the trail of clues to a surprising conclusion.

I listened to the audiobook edition, narrated by James Langton, whose smooth, mellow voice brings the characters vividly to life. His ability to transition effortlessly between characters and accents — from the aristocracy to the common man — enhances the listening experience. The pacing is just right, capturing Lenox’s introspection and melancholy as he faces his own aging.

While the mystery itself is somewhat subdued, the novel shines in its portrayal of change — both personal and societal. Lenox’s unwavering support of Lady Jane and his warm acceptance of his newfound niece show us the man he is becoming and hint at what lies ahead.

Each mystery in the series can be read as a standalone, but readers who start earlier will appreciate the deeper relationships and character arcs. Fans of the series will enjoy Hidden City for its thoughtful themes and emotional resonance, even if the mystery feels a touch lighter than usual.

Happy Reading!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

View all my reviews

Isle of Waiting by G.W. Prouse

On By TracyIn Check Content Warning/Triggers, Fairytale Retelling, Historical Paranormal/Fantasy, New To Me Author, Paranormal / Fantasy, Romantasy, Standalone Title, Tracy's Reviews, Young AdultLeave a comment

Isle of WaitingIsle of Waiting by G.W. Prouse

Tracy’s Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Series: Standalone

Release Date: November 4, 2025

Set in an evocative, famine-stricken version of early 1900s Greece. The story follows Kora, a young woman whose world has been shaped by the mysterious disappearance of the Immortals. Her life, though quiet and ordinary, takes a dramatic turn when her twin brother William is killed while protecting her, thrusting Kora into a supernatural bargain to save his soul. I appreciated the imaginative premise and how the author wove together mythic and fairytale elements, particularly with Shade—a god reminiscent of both Hades and Peter Pan, whose reluctance and vulnerability add intrigue to the plot.

Kora herself is a memorable protagonist: stubborn, loyal, and surprisingly brave. Her interactions with her family, especially her younger brother Michael, offer touching moments of warmth amid the story’s tension and loss. I also found her relationship with Shade compelling, with their slow-burn romance giving the book emotional depth. The setting—Greece on the edge of collapse—provides a compelling backdrop and heightens the stakes of Kora’s journey.

The blurb for this book intrigued me, but I did struggle at times with the pacing and the way the story balanced its dual inspirations, making the narrative harder to fully invest in. Some characters, particularly Shade, came across as more childish than I expected for a romantic lead, and the dialogue sometimes felt as if I was reading a YA novel rather than a romantasy. Overall, this was a touching story of love, loss, and self-discovery. And while it may not resonate with everyone—especially those looking for a more traditional mythological retelling—I think readers who enjoy unconventional fantasy, fairytale reimagining, will enjoy this book.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *