Will Archer faces his newest mystery yet when David Garrick is summoned by Royal Command to perform at Kensington Palace. While practicing for the play and acquainting himself with the staff, royal family, and courtiers, a first body is discovered. Is it a victim of rival Royal factions – or of more momentous events that are brewing in the streets and corridors of power in 18th London?
Will remains as ever an endearing character with a lot of depth to him. We see a truly sneakier side of him in this story, as he trails, investigates and questions from servants, to important political figures. No one is above suspicion. The familiar cast of old characters remain enjoyable and fleshed out. The newer characters are intriguing and also layered. The dialogue remains as ever sharp and authentic to the times. The plot moves along well; with some familiar story beats but with enough deviations that it stays fresh. The pacing is fairly constant, with something new happening regularly. The ending of the book leaves you on a cliff-hanger that had me racing to read the next book.
Another phenomenal read that takes us from Royal Parks and Palaces to disreputable bathhouses and even into the sewers beneath the filthy streets of the city. Will Archer learns first-hand that corruption and treachery can lead to the highest spheres in the land and no one is immune!
I award this book 4.5 stars
