A Darkness In Seven Dials by Ashley Gardner

By Barbara on June 29, 2024

Barbara's rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Series: Captain Lacey #17
Publication Date: 5/21/24
Period: Regency – 1820 London
Number of Pages: 275

This was a delightful addition to the Captain Lacey series. I have read each book as they were released into the world and I've loved each of them. Not only does this one have a mystery with twists and turns, it presents some intriguing possibilities for future plots – maybe even a new ongoing villain. We'll just have to wait and see.

The thing we all thought would never happen – HAPPENED! Not only was James Denis arrested for murder, but he was found standing over the body with the bloody knife in his hand. Of course, those of us who read this series know he isn't guilty – as does Captain Lacey. That, however, doesn't dampen Bow Street Runner Spendlove's elation and joy at finally getting Denis into Newgate.

Much to Denis's dismay, Captain Lacey begins to investigate only to find himself in danger. How did the victim come to be where he was found? With Denis's cunning, how did he manage to allow himself to be caught standing over the body with the murder weapon in his hand?

As we learn more about the victim, Lacey finds himself under attack. Is it the murderer or is it Denis's new archenemy – or are they one and the same? I can't wait to see where that storyline goes. Will Mr. William Archer take over as the villain of the series or will Denis send him on to his great reward? Another intriguing storyline could include Lady as Denis's love interest. Will he allow it or will he admire her from afar? Will she be used against him in the future? I would certainly bet on it.

This was a quick, fun read with an interesting mystery with a bit of a twist. I enjoyed seeing more of Denis's men and learning a bit about them rather than them staying window-dressing and used for nothing other than a handy set of fists. Of course, I loved Donata and Lacey and that he tells her absolutely everything and always keeps her as his first priority.

If you are looking for a nice mystery with interesting characters and lovely twists and turns, then you might want to give this book a read.