London in 1759 isn't where Lizzie Hardwicke imagined herself living, and she definitely didn't see herself working in a Bawdy House! But sometimes needs must! She didn't imagine being the last person to see a new client before they were found murdered either and even though William Davenport, the Bow Street Magistrate's Assistant, seems competent he doesn't have the contacts she does! When another body is discovered, Lizzie realises she has to work harder, but that will only increase the danger she has put herself in, especially as she knows there is very little trust in her line of work

The author's notes in the advanced copy of this book Georgina Clarke says this is a twenty-first century take on the eighteenth century, which describes it perfectly. This is a great read. It flows, and the two main protagonists, Lizzie and Davenport, are sympathetically written and easy to like. First published in October 2019, this is now the first novel in a trilogy, which can't wait to continue reading.

I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Verve Books, but the opinions expressed are my own. I had no idea whodunnit until the big reveal and happily recommend this highly.

I am grateful to Netgalley and Verve for allowing me to see a PPC of Death and the Harlot.
Another take on detective crime fiction: this time at the very earliest time of formal policing in London - as the Bow Street Runners were taking shape, though the detecting is done by an intelligent and educated young gentlewoman who has fallen on hard times following rape by her uncle and become the harlot of the title. Sin, debauchery, gin, blackmail and murder are all included in a picture of the seamier side of 18th century London. Lizzie is determined and loyal - the classic ‘tart with a heart’; but, although a good ripping yarn, it didn’t quite ring true for me.

The cover is excellent and perfectly depicts with a historical nudge the contents, willing you to delve in. A murder, a brothel and an investigation in the main character, Lizzie, hands itself over to an interesting and entertaining read.

I love the cover of this book, it gives a vibe about the story within.
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1759 and inside Mrs Farley's Bawdy House, a 'reputable brothel. a wealthy customer is found brutally murdered... The last person to see him was Lizzie..

I loved Lizzie she is a fabulous character and this gem of a read is both dark and intense.

The plotline is brilliant, the story well told and I did not guess what happens next.. A joyous tale..

Death and the Harlot by Georgina Clarke

The year is 1759, and London is shrouded in a cloak of fear. With the lawmen at the mercy of robbers and highwaymen, it's a perilous time to work the already dangerous streets of Soho. Lizzie Hardwicke is somewhat protected from the fray at Mrs Farley's Bawdy House, a reputable brothel. But then a wealthy customer is found brutally murdered... and Lizzie was the last person to see him alive.
Loved the character Lizzie and how she went along with her business which was not always at it seemed.
A very clever novel.