The versatile and accomplished author of the Darina Lisle mysteries gets a new historical series off to a propitious start with this engrossing tale. Arriving in 18th-century London in search of greater fame and fortune, Venetian artist Canaletto is twice attacked and robbedAand in both instances is saved by game, determined fledgling artist Fanny Rooker. Unable to locate his contact, Owen McSwiney, the well-respected landscape painter takes temporary residence at the home of Fanny and her brother, Ned, an engraver, and tries to discover the identity of his attacker. As most of London focuses attention on the partly finished Westminster Bridge, Fanny is jailed unjustly, framed in a scheme that involves Ned's wife and her family. Canaletto, hoping to help Fanny, agrees to aid Paymaster General Mr. Pitt in his efforts to discover who is hindering the controversial bridge project. Peopled with intriguing characters, Laurence's exuberant narrative teems with life drawn from all classes of Georgian London, from the whores in a London gaol to the snobby aristocrats whose patronage Canaletto seeks. As the story hurtles toward a finale that includes a hasty marriage and a duel in a church, the personable painter proves an adept detective, employing his skills of observation to uncover corruption and murder.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Laurence, already known to readers for her Darina Lisle series (Death at the Table, LJ 3/1/97), steps into the historical arena. Canaletto, famed for his paintings of Venetian views, tries his luck in 1746 London, where he hopes to capitalize on the new Westminster Bridge. Despite abortive attempts on his life?for reasons yet unknown?he finds a studio, employs a feisty female rescuer, and becomes a spy for the government. This richly detailed depiction of 18th-century London, complete with a get-rich-quick ethos and an entertaining array of characters from scurvy villains to genteel politicians, offers a rewarding read for fans of historical mysteries.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
See all Editorial Reviews
