Darkness in the City of Light

by Heidi Edmundson

Vulpe Tempest, thwarted in love and disappointed in her hopes to be an artist, has been left in charge of her uncle’s detective agency for the summer. Against the backdrop of a series of murders in which the victims are all mermaids, she takes on what appears to be the simple case of a missing person. To solve the mystery, she must descend into the dark underworld of the City of Light, its rivalries and its disconcerting and fantastical stories.

Part detective novel, part ghost story, here the magical and the real are almost indistinguishable. Everything is visible and nothing is as it seems, and Vulpe brings both tenderness and tenacity to the challenges she must face.

This intricately woven tale invites us into a world where instinct delivers as many insights as intellect; where the light is fractured, shattering certainties only to illuminate brilliant hunches, before directing our attention elsewhere, like magic.

301 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 15, 2024

Reviews

[Lynn Hillston · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a captivating debut read — one where you are drawn into Vulpe’s world straight away. And what a glittering, unusual world it is; imaginatively created and populated with people who are not what they seem —friend or foe? There is darkness hovering at the edges, making us anxious for Vulpe as she investigates disappearances and murders, facing death at the hands of an immortal evil in a terrifying finale. I devoured it all too quickly and am hoping for another mystery set in this world; Heidi is a writer to watch.

[Adam's Hub · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book pulled me in quietly and then refused to let go, blending mystery and magic in a way that felt both unsettling and beautiful. Vulpe Tempest is a thoughtful and resilient protagonist, and following her through grief, doubt, and determination made the story feel deeply human despite its fantastical elements. I especially loved how the author blurred the line between reality and illusion, keeping me constantly questioning what was truly happening.

[Ken Donaldson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic debut novel. I was hooked from the start and loved how the story developed, with twists and turns and revelations right up to the end. The main characters ‘arc’ was beautifully described. I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author and very much hope we see more of Vulpe.

[Cheryl Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Edmundson is an exciting new voice and writes beautifully. I was immediately transported to the City of Light, rooting for the loveable heroine Vulpe. It made me believe there could be magic in the world. I can't wait until her next adventure . Read this book.

[Muz Khan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I bought this at a friend's book launch a few months ago. It turned out to be a surprisingly enjoyable piece of speculative fiction, with an engaging protagonist and an intriguing premise. A fine debut novel from a talented author.

[Linda Murray · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quirky, kind of dreamlike and fun. Cover doesn't really represent what this book is about, but how on earth would you design that ?! I liked Vulpe's character, but is it a funny mix of genres that is in danger of falling between stools? Not quite crime fiction, not quite fantasy - but good!

[Alison Holmes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Keeps you guessing about where it is going. Could not put it down

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating, beautifully written, genre-busting ghost-fantasy-detective story with a wonderful female lead who I routed for all the way. Looking forward to the next one!

[Niall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading Heidi's debut novel, such an original plot and the characters are relatable and believable.
Plenty of twists and quite a few laughs too.
Recommended!