'Bailey's prose sparkles' The Times

'Puzzle solvers and historians will love this mystery' Booklist

'Murderously dark and delightful' MELISSA BAILEY

SUPERSTITION. MURDER. VENGEANCE.

Tabitha Hart earns a scandalous living in London, with whichever gentleman has enough coin for her company. But in the summer of 1752, her mother urgently summons her home to the village of Netherlea and, with reluctance, she returns. However, she is greeted by the news that her mother has died in disturbing circumstances.

Finding cryptic notes in her mother's almanack, Tabitha is determined to discover the truth, but the superstitious villagers are wary of her. Only the enigmatic Nat Starling is prepared to join her, as she sets out to uncover her mother's killer. But soon the summer draws to a close and snow sets in, cutting off Netherlea from the outside world. As an unknown killer prophesies their deaths, Tabitha and Nat now face the darkest hours of their lives.

About the Author

Martine Bailey is the author of two previous mysteries: An Appetite for Violets, selected by Booklist as one of their Top Ten crime fiction debuts, and A Penny Heart was one of the The Sunday Times Top Summer Reads in 2015. She lives in Cheshire, England.

@MartineBailey | martinebailey.com

Reviews
Bailey's prose sparkles * * The Times * *
A dark and twisting riddle that is certain to keep readers guessing until the end -- S D SYKES
An ingeniously plotted, hauntingly atmospheric murder mystery -- DEBORAH SWIFT
A beguiling historical novel set in the Georgian era. Witty, wily, and great fun -- ESSIE FOX
Puzzle solvers and historians will love this mystery, and Bailey's richly detailed story is perfect for fans of Ariana Franklin and Rhys Bowen * * Booklist * *
A beautifully constructed, deeply satisfying read that plays with the reader, demanding that you keep your eyes on the shadows as much as on the main stage. And it has riddles . . . 50 of them to read with the story or save for a treat * * Historia Magazine * *
Historical fans are in for a treat * * Publishers Weekly * *
As clever and beautiful as a tapestry -- REBECCA MASCULL
Murderously dark and delightful -- MELISSA BAILEY



Book Information
ISBN 9781838850357
Author Martine Bailey
Format Paperback
Page Count 448
Imprint Black Thorn
Publisher Canongate Books
Weight(grams) 297g
Dimensions(mm) 198mm * 129mm * 27mm