Foul Players
1700s, London. When Polly Paradice, Covent Garden coffee house proprietor, ex-courtesan, and singer, reunites with Mattie, her estranged sister and rising starlet of the London stage, mysterious, alarming events follow. From famous city landmarks to bustling boulevards and labyrinthine alleyways, mischief, mayhem, and murder are plotted against Polly, her family, and friends. As horrifying secrets from the past are exposed, she and her companions find themselves in grave danger. Will she, Andre Dark, her confidante and lover, Gin, her loyal maid, and others find the perpetrator and bring him or her to justice before it’s too late?
Prolific author Belle’s masterfully crafted novel vividly portrays 18th-century England and Georgian society and culture. Her setting of the tale in London’s exciting, often dangerous theatre district is meticulously researched and seamlessly woven into the structure of the story. Her expert world-building provides the perfect backdrop for the harrowing, intriguing twists and turns experienced by heroine Polly, fellow sleuth Andre Dark, her sister, and friends. Belle deftly recreates the stories of real-life stage personalities with actual dramatic events, giving the plot a continuous flow of mystery and suspense. Her in-depth research provides authentic, immersive insights into this significant culture and period of English history. Based on this engaging and entertaining third novel in the Paradice & Dark series, readers will surely enjoy Belle’s first two books. Captivating, memorable characters and a rousing, heart-warming, and adventurous novel!
