This was an engaging and unexpected read for me, as it’s not a genre I normally choose. The story follows a non-binary protagonist who shifts between male and female personas — not just to investigate a murder at Oxford, but to gain access to a medical education. Their secret identity adds a clever layer of tension to the narrative.

There’s a sweet love story at the heart of the book, balanced against darker elements like a corrupt police force, a truly despicable group of rogues, and an international incident. At times, it felt like there was a lot going on, but overall it’s an intriguing, atmospheric thriller with a strong historical setting.

#AMurderofRogues #NetGalley

★★★★★ — One of my top books of the year!

Thank you soooo much to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book. A Murder of Rogues was such a fun and entertaining read. Our protagonist, Pom/Cascabel, is one of my favourites in a while: smart, bold, fun, and they feel so grounded and real. I wish the book was longer just so I could spend more time with them and explore some of the themes that we didn't have the time to dig into.

I'm using they/them pronouns because, even though the word “nonbinary” isn't used in the book, Pom specifically says that they are neither a boy nor a girl. They’re also bisexual, and there’s the sweetest queer romance in this. I kept kicking my feet and dying whenever they interacted and aaaaaaah!!!!!

I really enjoyed the writing style, the plot, and the side characters, especially Knox, the scottish surgeon. And I loved Mouse, a deaf girl who teaches Pom sign language. Her representation felt thoughtful and natural, and I adored every scene she was in.

The narrator of the audiobook did a great job bringing everyone to life. I was completely immersed. I didn’t guess who the killer would be (though I had my hopes!), and the reveal was juicy. It wasn’t who Pom or I thought it would be, and the twist worked really well.

I can’t say much more without getting into spoilers, but this was a delightful read. I loved the historical setting, the mystery, the queer romance, and the voice. Such a good book and great narration too!

Enjoyable murder mystery, and a lot more, audiobook for older teens, and up. Cascabel Gray/ Pom by choice, is an interesting lead character. Dressing as a boy to enter the University, blackmail and a murder threaten to expose the ruse. The setting Regency England, in particular Oxford. Can she find the muderer without being exposed? Her family have their own plans for Pom, not advantageous, and possible romance and relationships stir further troubles. Thank you to Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for the Audio ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

4.5 stars

I really enjoyed this! It was much queerer than I expected (complimentary). We really go beyond the Twelfth Night-style central premise to actually explore the experiences of a genderfluid main character in a time period that doesn't have the language for that. I thought the book managed to strike a good balance, where we get to see positive representations of queerness without too much agonising and trauma, while still not completely glossing over the realities of the historical context.

I loved Pom's relationship with Mouse, and it was great to have representation of a D/deaf character using sign language. I appreciated how smart Mouse was and how she challenged Pom on some of their assumptions and bad behaviour.

The mystery is good, and I enjoyed the narration overall, although some of the character voices really didn't work for me.

I'm interested to check out some of this author's other books (and while this one seems like a standalone, Heap can absolutely sign me up for any further adventures of Pom and Mouse).