Death and the Harlot - Georgina Clarke

In a city built on secrets, who would kill to keep theirs hidden? The year is 1759, and London is shrouded in a cloak of fear. With the lawmen at the mercy of robbers and highwaymen, it''s a perilous time to work the already dangerous streets of Soho. Lizzie Hardwicke is somewhat protected from the fray at Mrs Farley''s Bawdy House, a reputable brothel. But then a wealthy customer is found brutally murdered... and Lizzie was the last person to see him alive. The magistrate''s assistant, William Davenport, has no hard evidence against Lizzie, but his presence and questions make life increasingly difficult. Desperate to be rid of him and prove her innocence, Lizzie turns amateur detective, determined to find the true killer, whatever the cost. Yet as the body count rises, Lizzie realizes that, just like her, everyone has a secret they will do almost anything to keep buried... The first installment of the gripping and vividly imagined historical mystery series set in 18th century London, from the author of acclaimed historical novel The Dazzle of the Light. Perfect for fans of The Household by Stacey Halls and Daughters of the Night by Laura Shepherd-Robinson, as well as readers of Laura Purcell, Sarah Waters and Diana Gabaldon. ''A wild ride through the seedy side of 1750s London... Lizzie Hardwicke is razor sharp and brilliantly original. I couldn''t put it down'' - JOE HEAP, author of When the Music Stops ''This novel is a refreshing add to the historical mystery genre. Atmospheric and full of authentic details... Brava to this new, engaging voice and her strong woman protagonist!'' - KAREN ODDEN, author of A Lady in the Smoke ''A gripping page-turner with a sassy and fabulously original heroine in the form of Lizzie Hardwicke – I loved it!'' - ANNIE LYONS, author of Eudora Honeysett is Quite Well, Thank You