Barbara’s rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Series: Tate and Bell Mystery #6
Publication Date: 11/3/25
Period: Victorian (June 1859)
Number of Pages: 344
This sixth book is an excellent addition to the Tate and Bell series. The murder takes place aboard the American packet ship Prince Regent, and Tate and Bell must solve the crime before the ship docks in London. The stakes are high — if it turns out that an American murdered a British nobleman, the case could spark an international incident. When the Prince Regent drops anchor in Limehouse Reach near Dog Island and sends a launch to fetch Scotland Yard, Sebastian and Gemma are certain the murderer is still aboard. But can they solve the case before the First Mate follows through on his threat to move the ship to the Port of London?
Gemma and Sebastian had been looking forward to a rare day together when Sebastian was suddenly called to investigate a mysterious death aboard the ship. Frustrated at the interruption — especially since he had planned to finally declare himself to Gemma — Sebastian reluctantly takes the case. Of course, Gemma insists on joining him. I love the way the two of them work together: Sebastian is every inch the authoritative detective, while Gemma shines “in the background,” where people are more likely to confide in her. Each brings a unique perspective to the investigation, and their teamwork is one of the series’ greatest strengths.
Finding suspects proves difficult because of the ship’s rigid class structure. Passengers in steerage are forbidden above deck; those in second class may only go topside when accompanied by someone from first class, and first-class passengers enjoy free access. When the deceased’s wife goes missing, the mystery deepens — is she another victim, or the perpetrator herself?
While you might form suspicions about the “how” and “who,” the truth doesn’t fully emerge until well into the story — and by then, time is running out. The author weaves clues, red herrings, and twists together perfectly, keeping you guessing until the very end. Most of the suspects are far from likable, which makes it all too easy to believe any of them could be guilty.
Each book in the series works as a stand-alone mystery, but to truly appreciate the character development and evolving relationships, you’ll want to start from the beginning. Why wouldn’t you? Every installment has been a great read. I especially loved the leap forward in Gemma and Sebastian’s relationship in this book, and I can’t wait to see what happens next. Some location hints even make me wonder if a change of setting might be coming in the future.
This was a fantastic addition to the series, and I’m already looking forward to the next installment.
Happy reading!
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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