What The Critics Said

‘Marston continues to supply a superior brand of historical mystery’

Books International

‘Family, friendship, love and loyalty are all tested in a period thriller which oozes tension, atmosphere and satisfying attention to historical and personal detail’

Huddersfield Daily Examiner

‘The exoticism of the past comes to life with brilliant colours, combined with a perfect whodunit. Who needs more?’

Crime Time

‘A perfect balance of authentic detail and lively characterization make for historical crime of the highest order’

Good Book Guide

‘Marston presents his characters with great depth; so that we feel we have acquired new friends by the end of the book…Marston is a master of detail’

Deadly Pleasures

‘A serious study of Restoration England but also a galloping adventure story...A strong well written novel. A story that Thackeray might have written'

Crime Time

‘A riotous Restoration romp’

Northern Echo

‘Serious tone, a sense of historical presence and well-sketched characters comprise a sterling performance'

Library Journal

‘A heady romp, solidly grounded on fascinating historical detail'

Kirkus Reviews

‘Humour and suspense are cleverly interplayed but the novel’s best feature is the reality with which the people and the period are brought to life'

New York Times Book Review

‘Charming...Marston knows his period and his turf'

Los Angeles Times

‘Writers of similar mysteries... would be well advised to read Edward Marston for a lesson in how to write historicals successfully'

Sherlock