A Dive into the Shadows: My Thoughts on The Malvern Murders by Kerry Tombs
Every now and then, a book comes along that not only captures your imagination but also invites you into a world filled with intrigue and mystery. That was my experience with The Malvern Murders, the first installment in Kerry Tombs’ Inspector Ravenscroft Detective Mysteries series. As someone who relishes the Victorian era’s ambiance, I was drawn in by the setting, the promise of suspense, and the thrill of solving a murder alongside a reluctant detective.
Set in 1887, prior to the infamous Jack the Ripper murders, we meet Inspector Samuel Ravenscroft—often overlooked and beleaguered by his asthma, but determined to prove his mettle. Tombs skillfully crafts Ravenscroft as both competent yet deeply flawed, which made me invest in his journey from the start. Assigned to the scenic spa town of Malvern for an asthma cure, Ravenscroft embarks on an unexpected investigation when a dinner guest, the local businessman Jabez Pitzer, is found dead in his study, leaving behind only a hint of poison and baffling clues. The stage is set for a captivating whodunit.
One of the standout elements is the novel’s rich atmosphere. Tombs paints a vivid picture of Victorian England, making the Malvern Hills as much a character as Inspector Ravenscroft himself. The descriptions are lush and immersive, allowing me to feel the cool breeze of autumn while navigating the tense, suspenseful moments of a small town teetering on the brink of chaos. Ravenscroft’s relationship with Constable Tom Crabb also shines; their dynamic brings warmth and humor to the procedural nature of their work, reminding me that friendships can blossom even amid darkness.
However, while I found the premise enthralling, I noticed some pacing issues. The narrative sometimes meandered, losing some momentum in parts where I wished for swifter reveals and tighter scenes. Yet, the humor sprinkled throughout and the clever dialogue kept me engaged. Tombs’ writing displays a delightful wit that resonates with the tongue-in-cheek nature of Victorian humor:
"A detective with asthma is somewhat akin to a fish out of water—either gasping for breath or simply floundering."
As the bodies pile up and a mysterious woman in black makes her presence felt, I was captivated by the twists and turns. I found myself guessing whodunit right alongside Ravenscroft, eagerly flipping pages late into the night.
The Malvern Murders is a delightful read for fans of historical mysteries, especially those who appreciate detailed settings and character exploration. If you enjoy novels that celebrate the art of classic detective work without the distractions of modern forensic science, this book is for you.
My reading experience was a reminder of how immersive literature can take us to places we might never step foot in during our everyday lives. I can’t help but feel eager for the next adventure with Inspector Ravenscroft—plus, with nine more books in the series, I’m looking forward to unraveling even more mysteries that await. So if you’re ready to step into the Victorian shadows of Malvern and accompany an unassuming detective on his quest for justice, grab a copy of The Malvern Murders. You won’t be disappointed.