“Using the locked-door mystery as the background for this Edwardian murder investigation, Brent Monahan provides readers with a strong who-done-it in which the story line pays homage to Holmes though John is clearly his own man. The investigation is fun to watch, as the lead triangle is reminiscent of Mr. Doyle's Holmes' novels. Clearly the Baker Street crowd will cherish THE SCEPTRED ISLE CLUB, but so will early twentieth century historical mystery fans.” Allreaders.com

After many printings of The Jekyl Island Club, it became obvious that readers wanted more of Sheriff John LeBrun’s clever and down-to-earth ratiocinations. In the first book, he befriends a British businessman who invites him to London. Upon retirement, John accepts. He finds himself smack in the middle of another club murder mystery. I had great fun exploring the British mania for men’s clubs. One such multiple-club maniac was Arthur Conan Doyle, who was a doctor before authoring the Sherlock Holmes stories. I had great fun turning him into LeBrun’s Dr. Watson in this locked room case. The novel explores British history and the foibles of its society at the time, as well as “the Irish question” and the liberalization of women’s rights. Once again, LeBrun is indomitable.
I only complained about the cover of a St. Martin’s book of mine once. It was over the blue-green hue of the photo. My editor, Keith Kahla, was of the same mind, so it was changed.

          
[hmmm]                       [much better]

Some quotes:

“Historically accurate, sardonically observant…Monahan keeps the pace brisk and Le Brun’s populist wit up front as he weaves a clever and socially conscious yarn.” Providence Journal-Bulletin
“Monahan’s engaging hero and meticulous attention to the history and style of the era make The Sceptred Isle Club a delightful meander through another time and place.” St. Petersburg Times
“Brent Monahan describes early twentieth century London with the same ease and immediacy he did late nineteenth century Georgia in The Jekyl Island Club. This is an engrossing read that will transport readers to an earlier time.” The Mystery Reader