“Shadow at the Morgue” is a gripping start to the Spencer & Reid Mysteries series. This historical mystery had a dark and atmospheric vibe, with a great female lead, that reminded me of the TV show “The Alienist”, with its vivid depiction of Victorian London and the unsettling underbelly of society. 

Leonora (or Leo) Spencer is the sassy and determined main female character and, in my opinion, is the standout of the book. I loved her sharp wit, resourcefulness, and the way she blatantly defied societal expectations to get to the truth and be herself. Her banter with Detective Inspector Jasper Reid added a layer of humour and tension that kept me hooked….and giggling. The chemistry between the two of them promises even more intrigue and laughs in future books. 

I thought the plot was cleverly crafted, with enough twists and turns to keep me guessing. From stolen lockets to sinister blackmail plots, the story unfolded at a satisfying pace, although I would have loved a bit more backstory in a couple of places. I guess that’s what the future books are for! 

Overall, an exciting mix of mystery, strong characters, and some history. Looking forward to seeing what’s next for Leo and Jasper. 

If you like a good mystery, or if you’re a fan of The Alienist, you’ll likely enjoy this one! 

**thank you to NetGalley for my copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**