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Member Reviews

So excited to receive an ARC for a favorite series and author!
Thanks NetGalley and Minotaur Books.
This one did not disappoint. Loved reading the further adventures of Mallory in her time travel to the Victorian era!
The book is so well researched and I loved reading about the contrast between the Victorian era and our modern times.
The plot involves a murder that takes place at a mummy unwrapping- quite a weird idea for a party. There are elements about the Egyptology of the day, women's rights and the Victorian obsession with death that added to the story.
The mystery itself was well plotted and very compelling. What is really the most fun about these books is following Mallory and her friends in Victorian times as their relationships evolve. This book has a block buster twist with regards to that!.
I highly recommend this book and in fact the whole series for those who love a good historical mystery . Personally looking forward to more books in the series!

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Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review!

I've been keeping up with this series since book one, and every single book so far has satisfied a need for a genre I didn't even realize I needed. It's like....procedural cop show meets Outlander?

I can't go too far into detail, since this is book three, and if you're reading this review I'll assume you have an idea of what the first two are about so I'll skip the summary, but I will say that Mallory's arc in this answered so many questions I'd been holding on to since book one. Some parts of her story had seriously needed to be addressed and I'm genuinely happy with how they were! Add in the Egyptian aspect to the murder they're trying to solve and I was flipping through this book nonstop to get to the end. Honestly I think Kelley Armstrong has become an autobuy author for me.

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While there are still things I enjoy about this series, the setting and a few of the characters (Isla, Mrs. Wallace, and Jack), I really can't stand Mallory, and I think it's time to call it quits. Mallory's narration and the dialogue among the main characters is always very correct and inoffensive--falling over itself to be inoffensive--and it doesn't feel like a story unfolding as much as an author being very careful to use the right words and have her characters, regardless of their time period, express the right opinions. It doesn't ring true, and it knocks me out of the story.
I was glad one important question was answered, but it didn't hold together as well as I'd hoped. I would love to chat with someone about Catriona's treatment, which was handled more or less with a shrug, in this resolution.
The way it ended, I almost, almost, thought I might want to see what happens next. But I'll probably just stick with Armstrong's Rockton crew, and wash my hands of this one.

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I'll never get tired of the adventures of gray and Mallory. This one had me gasping and reeling the entire time, plus nearly to tears at one point. I hope for many more books from this series.

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I love this series! Very entertaining and fun. Mallory is still stuck in Victorian England in the body of the wicked Catriona and is still assisting Dr. Gray in his "detective" work. She is unhappy with the way her role is being portrayed in some new broadsheets that are being circulated, so that is another mystery that she needs to work out, The relationship with Dr. Gray is moving slowly forward, and leads to her having to make a very difficult decision.

I look forward to the next book!

I received an ARC for free and gave my honest opinion voluntarily.

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This third entry in Armstrong's series about a time-traveling Canadian detective stuck in Victorian Scotland was a mixed bag for me. I loved Mallory's Edinburgh storyline as she continues to get more comfortable in that time period, and the mystery in this novel, which starts with a mummy-unwrapping (!) party, was very well done and interesting. The reason this got bumped to just a three-star read for me is that (giving as few spoilers as possible) Armstrong addresses the time travel element in a way that was incredibly unsatisfying. That small section of the book was way too easy and glib, and it left me feeling rather frustrated, along with some rolling of my eyes. I will still happily read future books in the series, but I would have liked a little more depth to the time travel storyline. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for a digital review copy.

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Disturbing the Dead is the newest title in Kelley Armstrong’s Rip Through Time novels. This series delivers a fun ride through Victorian Scotland and set in my favorite city. I would have liked to have had more atmospheric setting descriptions, such as during the vaults scene, and I did miss a little exterior description while getting from one place to another. Mallory is a delightful protagonist with a witty sense of humor that sends me into giggles without going to overboard. Who else would enjoy the idea of bringing a severed hand to afternoon tea and having finger sandwiches? Still laughing on that one. The author is careful to balance the fun of a modern woman stuck in the past without going too deeply into what would happen if she changed something to upset the future, such as her brushing over her mention that colds are from a virus and not winter weather. That did lead me down a path of what she might have changed in her own time period. There’s a surprise twist near the end that sent me to look up the rest of the titles in this series. This is a light and funny journey into a captivating time in history.

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AHHH! I’ve been waiting for this book it feels like forever - each book I become more and more in love with the characters and the setting. I love Mallory, Gray, Isla… all of them! The mystery being solved in this was good, but even more so was the twist in the middle!

I’m still thinking about how Mallory’s dad said there was someone else in a coma - I think we’re still going to see Catriona and what happened to her in a future book. I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens with that.

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I somehow missed there was a book 2 but I didn't find that to be too much of a problem. I found the novella involving Alice and did read that, but still need to go back and read book 2 mostly because I found I don't want to miss out on a moment with these characters. As I said, even without having read the previous book it was easy to jump right back into this world. I love the back-and-forth between Mallory and Annis, I think Mallory needs someone who keeps her on her toes. I also really like that this series is mostly all about the mysteries with just a little subtle romance between Mallory and Gray. The circumstance which has brought them together is strange (so say the least) so it makes more sense that their romantic relationship would take time to really develop - and also the fact that neither of them knew if and/or when she might go back to her time. Speaking of that, I thought I would be annoyed by the time spent back in the present, but I actually found it worked really well and it also provided Mallory with the closure she needed in order to really start to make a new life for her in the past. And knowing that her parents didn't need to worry about her and that she has found a way to leave them messages also allowed her to settle in for the long haul. As for the mystery, as usual there are a lot possible suspects and motives and it keeps you on your toes. When the killer is revealed I had the same reaction as Mallory - at first I was a little disappointed but then once the full picture is revealed didn't feel bad for the person at all. I agreed with Mallory and Gray's feelings on mummies - I've long wondered why that is not considered grave robbing. This is definitely a page-turner - I did not want to have to put it down and couldn't wait to see what twists would come next.

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In Disturbing the Dead, readers are reintroduced to the familiar characters of Mallory and Dr. Gray, whose adventures have captivated audiences in previous installments. The nostalgic feel of the story adds a comforting layer to the narrative, making it an inviting read for both longtime fans and new readers alike.

As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into the intriguing mystery surrounding the mummy, where suspicion runs rampant and the truth remains elusive. The complexities of the case make it impossible to discern the true culprit, adding an element of suspense that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.

Furthermore, Mallory is faced with a heart-wrenching decision that adds a compelling layer to the narrative. She must choose between staying in the Victorian Era, sacrificing her connection to her family, or returning home, knowing that an innocent man will be wrongly charged with murder. This emotional dilemma presents a gripping moral quandary that resonates deeply with listeners.

Disturbing the Dead weaves together the captivating mystery and Mallory's poignant choices, offering audiobook enthusiasts a rich and immersive listening experience. The addition of these elements elevates the narrative, making this audiobook a truly unforgettable journey into the world of historical intrigue and personal sacrifice.

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Disturbing the Dead is the third entertaining book in the A Rip Through Time series by Kelley Armstrong. Time traveler Mallory--a 30-year-old Canadian homicide detective now in the body of a much younger, troublesome housemaid in Victorian Scotland--and her employer, scientist/undertaker Dr. Duncan Gray, are exhibiting signs of a very-slow-burn relationship, but neither can forget that Mallory could find herself back in her original body in 2019 at any time.

Nevertheless, Mallory continues in her new position of Duncan's assistant as they help Detective McCreadie with a new case. A wealthy Egyptologist is about to reluctantly unwrap a mummy in front of a large party of observers when he cannot be found, so Duncan is called upon to do the unwrapping. But to the horror of the party-goers, what is revealed is far from what was expected. It's a lively story replete with Egyptian artifact trafficking, questionable family members, secret tunnels, and a mysterious underground market, not to mention male prejudice against female medical students.

As in the two previous series entries, the two main characters are wonderfully detailed, and the supporting characters are also rendered in such a way that they fly off the page. Mallory's narration continues to highlight the differences between life, technology, and law enforcement in the present day and in the 1860s, while she skillfully navigates between those close to her who know who she really is and those who expect her to behave in a proper Victorian manner. She also gets to use more of her detective skills than before, including those needed to get herself and Duncan out of dangerous situations.

I recommend reading A Rip Through Time and The Poisoner's Ring before this one, although there is enough inclusion of Mallory's backstory to allow the reader to enjoy Disturbing the Dead without doing so. I'm hoping for more books in this delightful series.

My sincere thanks to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.

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In this series, Mallory is a 30 year-old 21st century police detective who has been transported to 1869 Edinburgh and into the body of an 18 year-old housemaid with an unsavory past named Catriona. Her employers, Dr Gray & his sister Isla, now know Mallory is displaced in time and she is more of an assistant to Dr Gray in his work for the police in solving murders than she is a housemaid. They are all invited to a mummy unwrapping party which is interrupted when the unwrapped mummy turns out to be their missing host. As they investigate along with Detective McCreadie the trail leads them to several suspects and an unexpected choice confronts Mallory.

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Kelley Armstrong’s latest addition to the Rip in Time series, “Disturbing the Dead,” is a masterful continuation that not only meets but exceeds expectations. As a long-time fan, I found this installment to be my absolute favourite and also signifies a pivotal moment in the series.

Mallory, the protagonist, continues to be a standout character, effortlessly winning over readers with her wit and resilience. Her journey is one of the core strengths of Armstrong’s storytelling, blending humour and action (as well as the past and present) that makes this mystery/historical fiction an entertaining ride.

While “Disturbing the Dead” can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into the entire series to fully appreciate the depth and evolution of the characters and the world they inhabit.

"Disturbing the Dead” showcases Kelley Armstrong’s unique blend of humour, suspense, and supernatural flair. It’s a must-read for fans and newcomers alike, and I was thrilled to be chosen to read an ARC for one of my favourite authors and series.

This was a review for NetGalley.

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Interesting concept and reminded me of the tv series Quantum Leap, but this was much more engaging and fun! I also did not realize until after I finished this may be part of a series, so exciting to dig into what else these characters have been up too.

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Disturbing the Dead is proof that Kelley Armstrong's talent isn't limited to one genre. I love this A Rip Through time series, and book #3 does not disappoint.
Mallory Atkinson is a modern-day homicide detective that travels back in time to Scotland in the 1860's. While inhabiting the body of Dr Duncan Gray's housemaid Catriona Mitchell, she isn't an ordinary housemaid and becomes Dr. Gray's assistant. Gray and Mallory are invited to the home of Sir Alastair Christie to a mummy unwrapping. But when their host doesn't show they begin the unwrapping they find a man and not a mummy. Mallory and Dr. Gray must hurry to identify the body and arrest the killer.
I loved the concept of this series, time-travel, mystery, crime investigation, all with a unique spin to your average thriller. I enjoyed the pull that Mallory experienced in wanting to be with family while knowing she had a place she could call home in this Victorian era. I left wondering if I would be able to make the same decision and leave my family behind. A most enjoyable book that will leave you wanting to know what will follow.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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This was a fun book, but I didn't catch the first one of the series and I think that woulf have been more helpful. There is a lot of detail in the beginning where you know you missed some things. Definitely does not take away from the book, but I do recommend reading the first in the series. It was a fun book, including detective work and time travel. A good mystery with humor thrown in as well. An enjoyable read.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC.

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Time travel and mystery solving? Sign me up. This is a complex murder mystery with fantastic character development and brilliant time travel. I loved it. Thank you.

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Disturbing the Dead by Kelley Armstrong is an excellent addition to the A Rip Through Time series, providing non-stop action, a complex murder mystery in a macabre setting, an ever fluctuating slate of suspects, and interesting quirks as the result of time-travel.
Armstrong has once again outdone herself with this multi-faceted novel that hits all of the points that one has come to expect - complex characters, historical fiction, a touch of romance and humour, and a unique crime solving team. Add in the concept of mummy unwrapping and use of the remains for medicines is bizarre enough to leave the readers shaking their heads at the old and yet new concept.
Well-written and suspenseful, Disturbing the Dead's historical elements are clearly thoroughly researched. Armstrong manages to wrap up a few loose threads in the series while promising more entertainment to come.
I was happy to receive an ARC of #DisturbingtheDead from #NetGalley .

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I'm becoming increasingly fond of this series, despite the MC's occasional lag in catching on to things that seem pretty obvious from over here.

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When Mallory, Duncan Gray, and his sister, Isla, attend a mummy unwrapping, which Gray ends up doing with Mallory’s help because their host is indisposed, the last thing they expect is to find a fresh corpse under the wrapping and not a centuries old one. Now they not only have a murder mystery to solve but also a mystery regarding serial pamphlets that have been making the rounds depicting Duncan Gray as a master detective with Mallory as his buxom but not particularly bright assistant. There’s a lot going on in Kelley Armstrong’s newest addition to the A Rip in Time series, Disturbing the Dead.

I am certain that in the past three reviews (two books, one novella) of installments to the A Rip in Time series, I have mentioned how much I enjoy Mallory Atkinson as the main character with her humor and snark, qualities that are enhanced by her being a 21st century woman stuck in Victorian Scotland. In response, Duncan Gray’s reactions are always also charming and enjoyable. They make a good pair that I hope don’t get together too soon and ruin everything. (Sorry all of you romance lovers, but you know what happens when the couple finally gets together! Looking at you Sam and Diane, et al.)

Armstrong has constructed another solid mystery in Disturbing the Dead. I was constantly guessing up until the end about who the murderer was, how different incidents were tied together, and how it was all going to be tied together. Along the way, we got to visit a Goblin Market, which put me in mind of a recent T. Kingfisher read and made Mallory wonder if the Christina Rosetti poem had yet been published. This was a frequent occurrence in Disturbing the Dead: Mallory wondering if something had already happened historically or if it was yet to come. That is certainly a difficulty with time travel and trying to blend in!

At the beginning of Disturbing the Dead, we see Mallory interacting extensively with Isla and Duncan’s older sister, Annis. I really hope that Armstrong includes more of Annis in the future. She is unapologetically snarky and says what’s on her mind, frequently with a great deal of humor. She and Mallory make for very good scenes. More Annis!

Now, I don’t want to give a spoiler. And won’t. But, something really big happens in the middle of Disturbing the Dead, which I’m not sure I liked. Tantalizing, isn’t it? Don’t you just want to run out and get the book in order to see what I’m talking about? (Pre-order, as it isn’t on sale until May 7th.) I guess this is one of the harder things about being a book blogger. I just want to tell you what happened and have us discuss it at length. Ah, well. (Maybe I should just start a book club! 😉 .)

And, the book ends with another surprise that I think will make for some interesting situations along the way. Or, at least, I am hoping it will.

There is much to like about Disturbing the Dead from the cast of quirky characters to the twisty mystery. I hope that the big middle-of-the-book occurrence is open-ended despite the emotions prevalent with the characters that seem to suggest others. I like uncertainty–well, in books.

Many thanks to Minotaur Books for sending me a copy!

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