The Old Rogue of Limehouse

Inspector Ben Ross Mystery 9

By: Ann Granger

Narrated by: Gareth Armstrong, Julia Barrie

Highly acclaimed crime writer Ann Granger takes us on another thrilling adventure in her ninth Victorian murder mystery featuring Scotland Yard's Inspector Ben Ross and his wife Lizzie.

It is the summer of 1871 when Scotland Yard's Inspector Ben Ross pays a visit to Jacob Jacobus, the old rogue of Limehouse: infamous antiquarian, friend to villains and informer to the police. Ben hopes to glean information about any burglaries that might take place now that the wealthiest echelons of society are back in London for the Season.

Little does he realise that an audacious theft has already occurred - a priceless family heirloom, the Roxby emerald necklace, has been stolen from a dressing table in the Roxby residence, and the widowed Mrs Roxby is demanding its immediate return.

Ben's day gets worse when he and his wife Lizzie are interrupted that evening by the news that Jacob Jacobus has been found dead in his room with his throat slit from ear to ear ... Surely the two crimes cannot be connected? But with Ben's meticulous investigative skills and Lizzie's relentless curiosity, it is only a matter of time before the tragic truth is revealed . . .

(P)2023 Headline Publishing Group Ltd©2023 Ann Granger

Critic reviews

Characterisation, as ever with Granger, is sharp and astringent

Her usual impeccable plotting is fully in place

A clever and lively book (Margaret Yorke)

Lovely characterisation and a neat plot

This engrossing story looks like the start of a highly enjoyable series

Another winner!

Another wonderful and captivating inspector Ben Ross series. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Beautiful narration and an engaging storyline which kept my interest throughout. Gareth Armstrong was such a talented narrator! He had a lovely voice for Inspector Ross, and a range of convincing lively voices for the others. Julia Barrie had improved a lot on her part as Lizzie and maid Betsey too.
If I have to pick on something, I would just wish Lizzie had more parts in the story. As the series progressed, I found her role getting lesser and lesser in each story. I miss those earlier books which had her playing a more active detective role.
I hope Ann Granger continues this series and I look forward to the next story .

Cozy!

Not particularly exciting crime nor the twists are mind-blowing but very cozy and feel-good book.