Victorian England, 1861. Marry or become a governess. These are the choices for Esther Hardy-and neither option appeals. So when a dying woman turns up on her doorstep, Esther plunges into a life of danger and potential romance.

The tragic victim was long suspected of killing her aristocratic lover. Now, eleven years later, she herself has been murdered in a brutal attack. To unmask the killer, Esther must battle both underworld villains and secretive elites. How is the enigmatic gentleman she keeps encountering connected to the dead woman? Is he trying to help or hinder the inquiry? And why is Esther strangely drawn to him?

Unfortunately, no one can ever be safe in a treacherous city where the lies people tell create as much murk as the London fogs. If Esther's skill and luck hold, she will protect her family and emerge as a powerful woman detective. Or die trying.

From the author of the John Chase/Penelope Wolfe Regency mysteries comes the first installment in a compelling amateur sleuth series.