The Osiris Ritual

The Osiris Ritual is the second book in George Mann's Newbury & Hobbes mystery series, set in an alternate Victorian London. Sir Maurice Newbury and his assistant Miss Veronica Hobbes investigate two parallel cases: a mummy unwrapping that goes wrong at the British Museum and a series of murders connected to a stage magician. The novel combines elements of steampunk technology, supernatural horror, and traditional detective fiction in a fog-shrouded version of 1900s London. Ancient Egyptian mysticism intersects with automatons and clockwork devices as Newbury and Hobbes pursue their investigations through the city's dark corners. The story maintains multiple plot threads, including Miss Hobbes' search for her missing sister and Sir Maurice's struggles with his laudanum addiction. These personal elements run alongside the main mysteries, adding depth to the central characters. The book explores themes of addiction, loyalty, and the cost of progress in a society caught between ancient traditions and rapid technological advancement. Victorian-era anxieties about science and the supernatural mirror contemporary concerns about the pace of change.

Readers found this second Newbury & Hobbes novel maintains the steampunk atmosphere and supernatural mystery elements of the series. Several reviews note it moves at a faster pace than the first book. Readers liked: - The developing relationship between Newbury and Hobbes - Victorian London atmosphere and historical details - Action sequences and pacing - Mix of detective work and supernatural elements Common criticisms: - Plot becomes convoluted with multiple storylines - Some found the ending rushed - Characters make illogical decisions to advance the plot Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (2,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (90+ ratings) One reader noted "Mann excels at creating creepy Victorian atmosphere." Another said "The mystery keeps you guessing but the various plots don't quite come together satisfyingly in the end." Some readers suggest starting with the first book to better understand character relationships and ongoing plot threads.

The Strange Case of the Alchemist's Daughter by Theodora Goss A group of Victorian-era daughters of famous scientists solve supernatural mysteries in fog-shrouded London while confronting their own monstrous origins.

The Curious Affair of the Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief by Lisa Tuttle A Victorian detective and her psychic assistant investigate paranormal crimes in London's dark underbelly while navigating the world of fraudulent mediums and real supernatural phenomena.

The Kingdom of the Wicked by Derek Landy A Victorian-era detective with supernatural abilities hunts occult killers through London's streets while uncovering a conspiracy that threatens both the mortal and magical worlds.

The Shadow Revolution by Clay Griffith, Susan Griffith Three monster hunters protect steampunk London from supernatural threats while wielding advanced technology and forbidden magic.

Phoenix Rising by Pip Ballantine, Tee Morris Two agents of the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences investigate bizarre cases in a steampunk Victorian London filled with secret societies and mechanical menaces.

🔮 Author George Mann was only 28 years old when he wrote his first Newbury & Hobbes novel, the series in which The Osiris Ritual appears. 🗝️ The book blends elements of steampunk, Victorian mystery, and supernatural horror—drawing inspiration from both Sherlock Holmes and H.P. Lovecraft's works. ⚜️ The Osiris Ritual is the second book in the Newbury & Hobbes series, which has become a cornerstone of the "steampunk detective" subgenre. 🏛️ The novel's Egyptian elements reflect the real-life "Egyptomania" that swept through Victorian England following major archaeological discoveries. 🎭 Mann later adapted several of his Newbury & Hobbes stories, including elements from The Osiris Ritual, into comic book form for Titan Comics.