Called out of London on a secret job, the details of which are to be made known when he meets the man who has asked him to visit a certain inn, John Pickett is reluctant to leave his wife, but has no specific premonition of danger. But when the man proves hard to find and a special message is sent to warn him of his wife's danger, John is forced to face the fact that his old enemy might be behind it all - meaning that they are both in danger of losing their lives to a maniac...

The last book I read by this author was a Regency romance, which I loved due to the language and characters - and this was similarly good, though I did prefer the overall light-heartedness of the other to the greater tension of this one. Clean though with some mild innuendo, largely around John's assistant (a character I could have done without for more reasons than one), this was well-written and enjoyable. Though I have not read previous book in the series, I had no trouble following the story - but having said that, I do plan to go back and read more soon. All in all, a good story, and I look forward to reading more by the author.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

I have read all of the John Pickett mysteries. Set in a time where manners and honor mattered above all it is fun to engross yourself in it and have a good mystery to boot. The characters evolve so if you have not read the other books start with the first one and enjoy!

Bow Street Runner John Pickett is specially asked for to investigate a case. A letter received asks for Pickett and one other runner to help Edward Gaines Brookton, at Dunbury in Somerset. But when Pickett and Harry Carson arrives all it not what is seems. Previous events have left his wife in peril, now he must save her.
Although this can easily be read as a standalone story, reading the previous book would probably give some background knowledge to this one.
Overall it was still an enjoyable well-written cozy thriller, but not really a mystery. The character of Pickett in this story seemed a bit clueless and weak, and not assertive enough for a Bow Street Runner. My favourite character, though only playing only a minor part, was his brother in-law Major James Pennington.

Past tragedies haunt!

How I love John Pickett mysteries. John receives a singular honor and his home front is put in jeopardy. Following John's journey is such a pleasure. In this volume John travels to the West Country with his nemesis Harry Carson in response to a request for assistance from John and another Bow Street officer.
Julia, John's beloved and charming wife, is abducted whilst he's away. The past has come back to haunt them both. John enlists the help of his brother-in-law Major James Pennington, late of His Majesty’s 7th cavalry. Together with Thomas his valet and Carson they follow what leads they can. A trail that will send them to Ireland and into a case from the past that still troubles John.
I really enjoy the relationship between John and Julia, I enjoy John's doggedness and insecurities. I enjoy his exasperation with Harry Carson. I love his down to earth good sense. Julia is his perfect foil. Another pleasurable read.

A Sonatina Press/Xpresso Book Tours ARC via NetGalley