Robin's Way

Reverend Robin Topham Adventures

Fiction - Mystery - Sleuth
306 Pages
Reviewed on 10/03/2024
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Robin’s Way: Reverend Robin Topham Adventures by Kate Robins and Artemis Taylor is women’s crime fiction that is both innovative and fresh. Reverend Robin Topham is a beautiful young cleric whose first posting is to a quiet diocese in the English countryside. For Robin, the change of pace from the hustle and bustle of London is exactly what she needs. As a female cleric, in a church that has only in recent decades accepted women into the ministry, she is at the forefront of a changing environment. When the son of the local lord of the manor shows a romantic interest in Robin, she is intrigued, excited, and genuinely interested until a young Ukrainian woman tells Robin of a major web of human trafficking that her boss and Robin’s paramour are involved in. Feeling betrayed by this man, Robin is determined to help the young woman escape and expose her boyfriend for the fiend he is. So begins Robin’s dangerous journey out of rural tranquility and straight into a twisted web of lies, deceit, and violence. 

Robin’s Way is a cleverly constructed and intricate crime mystery adventure. Authors Kate Robins and Artemis Taylor have carefully woven a series of sub-plots and red herrings into a narrative that will have readers asking; who can be trusted here and who is betraying who? I particularly appreciated the dilemma Robin faces as both a woman and someone uncertain about their sexuality. As a woman in a still predominately male environment, she was constantly having to prove and justify herself in a way that a male vicar would not have to. I loved that she pointed out the hypocrisy of the church in condemning same-sex relationships whilst not applying a similar standard to sexual promiscuity between heterosexual couples. I found the position of Robin’s Bishop particularly interesting where she was forced to decide what was more important; her career or her sexual orientation. I did enjoy the romantic scenes which were incredibly sensual without being crude or vulgar. What makes this story stand out for me is the clever plot twists and constant uncertainty as to who was telling the truth, who was loyal, and who were the betrayers. This constant tension kept me reading to discover more. I hope this is not the end for the lovely Reverend Robin and that the authors already have her next adventure planned. This well-written, well-thought-out story was extremely satisfying and I highly recommend it.

Carmen Tenorio

Robin’s Way by Artemis Taylor and Kate Robbins centers on Reverend Robin Topham, a member of the next generation of ordained Anglican female vicars. As a young clergywoman, she explored her scruples and sexual inclinations while fully envisioning herself as a capable pastor serving her flock in an idyllic English county. To her surprise, she became deeply involved in an international human trafficking drama when a victim unexpectedly sought her help. What follows is a gripping series of events full of intrigue, betrayals, danger, scandals, and suspense. Because of her unwavering fighting spirit, Robin goes from being a meek rural vicar to an indispensable and well-known champion focused on rescuing the victims and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Will she succeed in her mission without jeopardizing her ethics, career, safety, or the relationships and friendships intertwined with each step of the way? And will she be able to pursue her passion for helping others despite the reluctance of some to accept her?

Authors Artemis Taylor and Kate Robbins have skillfully written a cozy mystery with a religious, LGBTQ+, multicultural crime theme woven into a timely and gripping plot. The articulate and well-written prose highlights their fascinating style and is worth the read. It’s a work of fiction but pragmatically tackles both relevant societal and personal issues represented by the main character’s internal and external struggles. The moderate pacing expands the story, setting and the evolving personality of the lead character as it progresses. The characters are well-developed and multilayered, yet relatable, and keep the reader’s attention. Robin influences the outcome in a story filled with intrigue and down-to-earth sentiments that easily appeal to the reader. The descriptive, sometimes whimsical, and amusing details make this an irresistible and absorbing narrative with riveting moments. Various scenarios with an occasional hint of romance will pique a reader's interest and sense of anticipation and excitement. Robin’s Way is highly recommended for fans of cozy mysteries and thrillers with a strong female lead.

Angelique Papayannopoulos

Robin’s Way by Kate Robins and Artemis Taylor is a thrilling mystery. Despite the tranquility of the English countryside, Reverend Robin Topham uncovers a dark secret within the parish. Women fleeing the devastation of war are lured into brothels by powerful Russian and Ukrainian men involved in a trafficking ring. The perpetrator is the captivating heir of a prominent family, with whom Robin was smitten initially. It turns out this was only the tip of the iceberg. The sinister network extends far deeper, and betrayal is closer than Robin could have imagined. Although she discovers her sexual preferences along the way, Robin remains committed to her faith and is determined to protect vulnerable women at any cost, even if it means sacrificing her life and reputation to fight against greed and corruption.

Robin’s Way is a well-paced story with a brilliant plot and well-drawn characters. With excellent narration by Kate Robins and Artemis Taylor, the storyline is challenging in underpinning delicate sexual issues. Nevertheless, the reader is guaranteed to be pleasantly surprised by the inventive and compelling scenarios as well as surprising twists that will keep them on the edge of their seat. The novel has a strong narrative voice and the characters are convincing and vividly described. The humble protagonist embodies strength and determination that the reader empathizes with. Sexuality preferences are handled authentically and enhance the intriguing plot. It is a suspenseful mystery that combines realistic human trafficking situations with themes of self-discovery, acceptance, courage, and justice even as it explores the ethical complexities. Fans of detective crime novels will find Robin's Way an intriguing and unusual read.