I made the mistake of requesting this book without knowing that it was part of a series. However, the author provides enough backstory that I didn't feel completely lost while reading. However, I would have enjoyed this even more if I had read the previous books. I really wish NetGalley and the publishers did more to alert readers that a book is part of a series or a re-release.
Sepulchre Street is the type of mystery that I love. I want a mystery where every word matters, and paying attention is part of the experience. I also enjoyed the setting of this historical mystery. The atmosphere was fantastic. If you love mysteries that make you think, this is a great read, but maybe read the books in the series first.

Thank you to Aria and Aries for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you NetGalley for approving me to read this book! A highly enjoyable read that is nice started I couldn’t put down.

I think this is closer to returning to the form of the first in the series, and is better for it. It was complex and confusing. I think Rachel's character needs some depth added at this point in the series, but the mystery itself was good.

Rachel Savernake is asked by a performance artist Damaris Gethin, known as the Queen of Surrealism, to investigate her murder. It's an odd request, considering the two women are speaking together at Damaris' newest performance/exhibit, which features live models pretending to be wax figures of famous killers, and wait staff dressed as bobbies.

Rachel is bemused, but this changes when the highpoint of Damaris' exhibit involves her pretending to be Marie Antoinette positioned on the guillotine, which, does kill the artist.

Jacob Flint is at the exhibit also, but he's there for an in with a beautiful socialite, Mrs. Kiki de Villiers, whose past includes prostitution, possible spying, and a series of now dead, wealthy husbands.

There are also others at the performance, who are possible suspects or people who know something of Damaris' past.

Rachel begins digging, investigating Damaris' former acquaintances and friends, while Jacob digs into the past of Kiki de Villiers. Series regulars Clifford and Hetty Trulove and his sister Martha support Rachel in her endeavours, while efforts to learn more about Mrs. de Villiers are stymied by parties in the British government.

The two investigations run parallel to one another, with Rachel and the Truloves finding real clues and motives, while Jacob pretty much flails around. He is still fruitlessly mooning over Rachel, who is his superior in so many ways. She remains a somewhat enigmatic figure whose many skills help her on this case.

The cases uncover WWI espionage, assassins, criminal gangs, blackmail and governmental interference, which puts roadblocks also on Inspector Philip Oakes investigating the rising number of dead bodies, and Jacob's newspaper from reporting.

The story is full of twists and turns, and unexpected and secret relationships all tied up with the Romney Marshes in Kent and Rye in Sussex, and Kiki de Villiers home, Sepulchre Street. Author Martin Edwards story was suspenseful, with dark motives and interesting historical details. I enjoyed this installment, and hope there is more revealed about Rachel's backstory eventually.

Thank you to Netgalley and to Aria & Aries for this ARC in exchange for my review.

The mystery kept me guessing. I enjoyed the setting (Historical England) and the characters. Enough so, that I've gone looking for the previous books. I really want to know Rachel's backstory

Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I suppose this wasn't for me.
I was very intrigued by the concept and the setting as it was described in the blub, but right from the first chapter, I felt something was off for me. And I soon discovered it was a characteristic of the entire story: it took forever to be told.
I seriously thought half the length would be enough for this story. There's a lot of padding. And a lot of time is devoted to episodes that won't go anywhere.
The mystery soon became very unlikely (at least, for me) and the end unconvincing.
I skipped most of the last part.

This book gave me Knives Out and Agatha Christie vibes and it didn’t disappoint.

The premise of someone asking a detective to solve your murder before it happens sucked me in right away.

I hadn’t read any of the earlier books in the series so I’m not sure if I missed much as far as Rachel Savernakes background and rivalry with reporter, Jacob Flint. I enjoyed the ride the story took me on.

Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Sepulchre Street is the fourth book in the Rachel Savernake series by Martin Edwards. Released 11th May 2023 by Head of Zeus on their Aria imprint, it's 448 pages and available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.

I've seen the series touted as an homage to the golden age of British detective fiction, and while it's certainly set in the interwar period in England, it didn't necessarily feel like it was of the period to me. It's very well crafted, with the hallmarks of the era (drama, skullduggery, genteel (and not so genteel) murder, wide variety of suspects), but the setting could have been any time from about 1920 to the present day.

The plotting is rather slow, built up over time rather than explosive. The narrative arc is deliberate - stately even, and the denouement is less of a crescendo than an inescapable inevitability when it finally comes. There were a number of fairly outlandish plot twists which interfered with my suspension of disbelief, but in the end the plot threads resolve, the clues are deciphered, and the mysteries are solved. This entry was a bit different, in that titular lead character Rachel was more peripheral to the action, although she was there to tie up the loose ends in the denouement.

There is very little background information provided by the author, so the book (in my opinion) doesn't work very well as a standalone. I do recommend the series and the author, so reading the first volume will reward diligent readers. With 4 volumes extant, it would make a good choice for a series binge/buddy read.

Four stars. Not classic golden age, but quite readable (and edgy with a sort of noir vibe).

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Book Review: Sepulchre Street by Martin Edwards

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

Martin Edwards delivers another captivating installment in his compelling series with “Sepulchre Street.” Set in 1930s London, this gripping novel follows the enigmatic Rachel Savernake as she unravels the mystery behind renowned artist Damaris Gethin’s puzzling death.

The story opens at Damaris Gethin’s latest exhibition, a spectacle featuring live models posing as infamous killers. Rachel Savernake, perplexed by her invitation, finds herself cornered by the artist herself. Damaris, moments before taking her own life on stage, implores Rachel to solve her murder. As the lights go out and the guillotine falls, a multitude of questions arise: Why would Damaris choose to end her life? What did she mean by “solve my murder”?

Edwards expertly weaves a complex web of intrigue and mystery, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. His writing is phenomenal, capturing the essence of the 1930s and creating an atmospheric backdrop that immerses readers in the story. The pacing is well-crafted, with each twist and turn propelling the narrative forward.

One of the standout aspects of “Sepulchre Street” is the character development. Rachel Savernake remains a compelling enigma, with her sharp intellect and mysterious past. Edwards skillfully peels back layers of her persona, keeping readers intrigued and eager to uncover more about her. The supporting characters are equally engaging, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.

The plot is intricately constructed, offering readers a challenging puzzle to solve alongside Rachel. Edwards provides ample clues throughout the book for those daring enough to piece them together. Each revelation brings us closer to understanding the truth behind Damaris Gethin’s death, heightening the suspense until the final pages.

Furthermore, the cover design for “Sepulchre Street” is truly remarkable. It captures the essence of the story and serves as a visual representation of the atmospheric setting within the book. The cover designer deserves high praise for their exceptional work.

In conclusion, “Sepulchre Street” is another solid addition to Martin Edwards’ series. With its phenomenal writing, well-paced plot, and intriguing characters, this book is sure to captivate fans of historical mysteries. Edwards continues to deliver gripping who-dunnits that keep readers guessing until the very end. I eagerly anticipate what he has in store for us next.

Disclosure: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

My first read by this author and it wont be my last it was suspenseful, full of mystery and absolutely gripping

Maybe I just wasn't in the right mindset to read this book and enjoy it, but I was not the biggest fan. Granted I had a newborn baby at the time I was trying to read it and was working on very little sleep. I found the book hard to follow and not very interesting. From the start there were too many characters that as the reader I felt I was supposed to know everything about. I found the dialog uninteresting and dry as well.

Rachel Savernake is a clever investigator who doesn't suffer fools lightly.. She has been hired by the victim of a locked room mystery to solve the case. The victim of a particularly gruesome killing hires. Rachel before her death and Rachel has to determine whether this is suicide or murder, and if it is murder, who did it.

Rachel Savernake is a strong and independent investigator with a quick brain and a sharp tongue. The story is full of twists and turns, and the reader is kept guessing until the very end. It is a classic mystery novel that will keep you entertained from beginning to end.

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

Rachel Savernake is the daughter of a judge, ridiculously wealthy, slightly bored, and smart as a whip. In other words, she has all the qualities of a Bright Young Thing ready to solve mysteries. And in Martin Edwards’ series of books, we get to hold on tight and go along for the ride. Both of these titles have meandering plots but they are fun reads.

As part of the wealthy upper class, and a fan of Surrealism, Rachel Savernake is invited to a gallery showing of a hip new installation. The immersive show features live models pretending to be wax figures of famous criminals (and victims). It’s a sort of living Madame Tussaud’s. And the guestlist is a bit confusing. Rachael can’t figure out why the various people have come — until the artist confides that she thinks she is about to be murdered, and she wants Rachel to solve it. A few minutes later, the artist is beheaded in her re-enactment of the execution of Marie Antoinette.

Also in attendance is Rachel’s friend and newspaper reporter Jacob Flint. The two team up to solve the crime (if it was one) and figure out who wanted the artist dead. It’s a twisty case, with some look-alikes, mistaken victims, and adventures that would otherwise be inappropriate for a woman of class.

I love Rachel Saganake mysteries and this one is the best I read so far. It starts with a bang and never stopped surprising me with twists and revelation.
I was glad to catch up with the cast of characters and had a lot of fun in reading this homage to Golden Age riddles.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

My first meeting with Rachel Savernake but I have read many of the author's other books and he never disappoints. She reminds me of Phryne Fisher, an intelligent woman of independent means with a close knit group of staff/friends who get caught up in crime and murder and proceed to successfully investigate, to the annoyance of local police. This certainly has intrigued me enough to search out the first book in the series. Not that excited by the sidekick journalist though. Thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus.

I loved this book as much as the previous ones in the series. The development of the characters from the last one to this one continued well and I'm looking forward to what happens next. The actual setup and crimes were done really well and the plotting of the drama was really believable. I can't wait forward for the next book in the series and see what Rachel Savernak does next!

Edwards' crime fiction has a compelling premise and masterful plot. If plot is what you like. I read for character over plot and so this was not the mystery novel for me. I found the characters wooden and the dialogue, in particular, somewhat stiff. An able writer, with great control over his narrative, but lifeless.

The absolute joy of being back with Rachel Savernake! I loved this latest story, this is a series which just keeps on giving. I've read them all and would suggest that's best, you get the history of Gaunt Island and the Judge, how Rachel comes to know Jacob Flint, plus the Inspector, the Truemans, the background is all useful to the story. I love the 1930's setting and there are plenty of references to life in Britain at the time. It's a murder mystery with plenty else going on to keep you intrigued and the clue finders at the end are fabulous. Highly recommend and can't wait for the next one!

Sepulchre Street is the fourth book in the Rachel Savernake crime series, but the first one I have read. I do feel that I may have missed out by not reading the books in order and having a full backstory, but it was still an enjoyable read.

With a nod towards the golden age of detective fiction, Martin Edwards has produced a whodunnit that will rival many of Christie’s mysteries, but without the likeable characters of Miss Marple or Poirot. Rachel Savernake would make a good friend but I feel she is not someone you would want to cross and I didn’t really take to her character. I may have thought differently about her if I had read the first three books prior to this.

Having said that, there was plenty of crime on offer throughout the book, with a series of murders accompanied by twisty red herrings and dead ends to keep me engaged. 4*

Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy in return for an honest review.

I love Martin Edwards books, especially this series. I am really partial to historical murder mysteries and he has a excellent flair for them. I have read all of the books in this series and love the way he has developed the characters. I have come to know them well and enjoy the main protagonists. I'm invested in their story lines and look forward to each new book as they come out. The author is excellent with his plot lines and he likes to throw a red herring or two in which keeps you guessing. I really recommend this series.