In the dark and slimy streets of Wapping a prostitute is beaten half to death, a not uncommon fate in late 18th century London. So begins this gripping tale set in 1798 in the Port of London: a cruel villain holds sway over the underworld. His name is Boylin. His face is scarred by lime and his back by the two hundred lashes he received following a naval court martial. He holds Captain Tom Pascoe responsible for his suffering. They meet again when Pascoe becomes River Surveyor for the newly formed marine police. They've had orders to investigate a sudden fall in government revenue that is affecting the nation's ability to fight the war against Napoleon and stem the rising tide of Irish rebellion. Pascoe knows that Boylin is behind it, but he can't prove anything, yet. THE WATERMEN follows these two adversaries across London as they try to outwit one another. Working alongside Pascoe is Sam Hart, a Jewish immigrant with his own agenda, Pascoe throws the rule-book out the window, scouring East London and the docklands in search of information. But fate takes a cruel twist when the two men find themselves involved with the same woman - there's much more at stake than the fate of the nation.

About the Author
Patrick Easter was a police officer in the Met for thirty years and for part of that time served on the Marine Police force. On retirement, he became a successful journalist writing both for technical journals and the national press. His stint with the Marine Police coupled with a love of 18th Century history make him the perfect author for this subject. He lives in East Sussex.

Reviews
'Patrick Easter is a find. A first-rate historical thriller' Andrew Taylor. * Andrew Taylor *
'Compelling debut is overflowing with atmosphere' Daily Mail. * Daily Mail *
'Great on period detail, Easter conjures up a satisfyingly creepy atmosphere of fear and menace in the filthy, overcrowded streets by the docks' Guardian. * Guardian *
'Wonderfully atmospheric. The reek of tar and the creak of timbers rises up from every page. Carries you along on a floodtide of excitement' Rory Clements. * Rory Clements *



Book Information
ISBN 9780857380562
Author Patrick Easter
Format Paperback
Page Count 416
Imprint Quercus Publishing
Publisher Quercus Publishing
Weight(grams) 294g
Dimensions(mm) 198mm * 131mm * 23mm