Two very different worlds collide in this latest work by Eston: the underhanded politics of the court, as well as the skeeviness and politics of the bagnios and molly houses. Threads from previous books connect beautifully with recurring characters like Giovanni or Mr. Walpole, and we are introduced to new characters like Mr. Gill and Mr. Fielding for example. Archer has himself a robust team he’s built with his career now with Hervey; and they all come together in unexpected ways to help him out; not to mention the core cast that’s been there from the very beginning like Susan and Charlie. The new and old characters are wonderfully written and an important revelation finally comes to light in this book. The dialogue is as always authentic to its time period and distinct depending on who’s talking. It moves the plot along, and everything felt right: the pacing was superb all throughout. The book starts with a surprising twist: a molly boy who poses as a lady is found dead with the prince’s seal. Immediately the stakes are set, and the author delivers beautifully: Archer’s past comes up to meet him but he faces it maturely. His skills and techniques really flourish in this mystery; Eston outdid himself.
I award this book 5 stars