'Makes you want to read every word...the plot is serpentine and satisfying, with enough false trails and distractions to create a genuine mystery' Telegraph London, 1781. Harriet Westerman waits for news of her husband, gravely injured at sea. The streets of the city seethe with rumour and conspiracy as the King's navy battles the French at sea. And while the banks of the Thames swarm with life, a body is dragged from its murky waters. In another part of town, where the air seems sweeter, the privileged enjoy a brighter world of complacent wealth and intoxicating celebrity. But as society revels in its pleasurable diversions, a darker plot is being played out. Yet some are willing to look below the surface, no matter how unsavoury the depths. Harriet believes passionately in justice. Reclusive anatomist Gabriel Crowther is fascinated by the bones beneath the skin. Invited to seek the true nature of the dead man, they risk censure for an unnatural interest in murder. But when the safety of a nation is at stake, personal reputation must give way to the pursuit of reason and truth.
- ISBN10 0670023175
- ISBN13 9780670023172
- Publish Date 16 February 2012 (first published 29 April 2010)
- Publish Status Remaindered
- Out of Print 27 August 2015
- Publish Country US
- Imprint Pamela Dorman Books
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 382
- Language English