I was attracted to this book because of the gorgeous cover (Georgian gentleman walking into the mist). I did realise before buying that it's actually #2 in a series, but I downloaded it anyway because I liked the sound of the story. And, as it turned out, it works as a stand alone too.
The story opens with Thomas Hawkins on his way to the gallows, charged with murder. But whose murder? And is he innocent or guilty? The story then backtracks to show how the son of a country vicar got himself into such a mess. Of course it doesn't help that Thomas is a lovable rogue with a fondness for drinking and gambling, who's living in sin above a pornographic print shop at the dodgy end of Russell Street. And he's somehow found himself working for both London's biggest crime lord AND the Queen of England. And he's not sure which is the most ruthless, or who he fears most.
I adored this historical murder mystery, which moves at a cracking pace. The grinding poverty of St Giles is horribly authentic, contrasting with the descriptions of St James Palace (despite the rats). I loved the characters - Thomas, obviously, but particularly Kitty Sparks: "Her Majesty can kiss my rain-soaked arse!" She refuses to marry Thomas in case he gambles away her inheritance - that rather dubious print shop. And I particularly liked that part of the plot is based on actual historical events - the author details the real-life stories of some of the characters at the end of the book.
I never thought I'd ever have the occasion to use the word 'rollicking', but this IS a rollicking good read and I thoroughly recommend it!
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