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Thomas Hawkins #3
A Death at Fountains Abbey
'In a tale that more than matches its predecessors for pace and atmosphere, Hawkins is forced into confrontation with a psychopathic killer...hugely enjoyable' The Sunday Times
'You will burn.'
Late spring, 1728. Fresh from his escape from the gallows, Thomas Hawkins has arrived in Yorkshire with his ward, Sam Fleet. But death still has a hand upon his shoulder, even in such idyllic surroundings.
John Aislabie, Tom's reluctant host, is being tormented by anonymous letters threatening murder. A disgraced politician, Aislabie certainly has plenty of enemies. But, trapped in a house haunted by old tragedies, Tom begins to suspect that the danger lies much closer to home. Someone is playing a subtle and deadly game of revenge, years in the planning. And now Tom is standing in their way...
'You will burn.'
Late spring, 1728. Fresh from his escape from the gallows, Thomas Hawkins has arrived in Yorkshire with his ward, Sam Fleet. But death still has a hand upon his shoulder, even in such idyllic surroundings.
John Aislabie, Tom's reluctant host, is being tormented by anonymous letters threatening murder. A disgraced politician, Aislabie certainly has plenty of enemies. But, trapped in a house haunted by old tragedies, Tom begins to suspect that the danger lies much closer to home. Someone is playing a subtle and deadly game of revenge, years in the planning. And now Tom is standing in their way...
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2016
62 people are currently reading
928 people want to read
About the author
Antonia Hodgson
10 books1,534 followersAntonia Hodgson was born and grew up in Derby. She studied English at the University of Leeds. Her first novel, The Devil in the Marshalsea, won the CWA Historical Dagger 2014 and was shortlisted for several other awards. Its sequel, The Last Confession of Thomas Hawkins, was released to widespread acclaim in 2015. Her third novel, A Death at Fountains Abbey, comes out in August 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
October 17, 2016
This is the third in the Thomas Hawkins series but the first that I have read. It works well as a standalone. This is a historical thriller based on real events set in 1728. Tom is a man who likes drink, women, gambling and who recently escaped the gallows, but remains haunted by the experience. He is involved with Kitty, who will not marry him lest he gambles away her money. The story begins with a fire set by Molly, a servant, at the London home of John Aislabie which has unforseen and devastating consequences that have an impact on events that occur in 1728. Aislabie, the disgraced ex-Chancellor of the Exchequer, seen to be responsible for the bankruptcy and loss of livelihoods of so many in the South Sea Bubble, has been receiving threats and asks Queen Caroline for help.
Queen Caroline blackmails Tom to go to the aid of Aislabie, and return with a incriminating ledger in Aislabie's possession that threatens the royal family. So Tom finds himself in wild Yorkshire with 14 year old thief Sam Fleet, the son of the leader of a notorious and dangerous London gang. Tom finds a curious set of affairs at Studley Hall. Elizabeth Fairwood, has evidence that suggests she is Aislabie's daughter who was presumed to have died in the London fire. Aislabie believes her completely and refuses to countenance anyone saying otherwise. Slain animals are left on the doorstep of the Hall with notes that threaten Aislabie and Elizabeth. Aislabie refuses to comprehend how many see him as the cause of their financial ruin and points Tom to a local family of poachers as the guilty party. Tom knows that this is unlikely but struggles to get Aislabie to see himself as anything beyond a victim. Kitty and Sam help Tom in his search for the truth. Tom is to face much danger, murder, deceptions, secrets and violence. There is a thrilling finale at Fountains Abbey.
This a compelling and well researched story with a fast paced narrative. The characters are colourful and vividly realised. I particularly liked Kitty and Sam Fleet. It is a well plotted and atmospheric novel that evokes the period remarkably well. There is plenty of suspense and tension along with a number of twists. A most enjoyable read that I recommend. Thanks to Hodder and Stoughton for an ARC.
Queen Caroline blackmails Tom to go to the aid of Aislabie, and return with a incriminating ledger in Aislabie's possession that threatens the royal family. So Tom finds himself in wild Yorkshire with 14 year old thief Sam Fleet, the son of the leader of a notorious and dangerous London gang. Tom finds a curious set of affairs at Studley Hall. Elizabeth Fairwood, has evidence that suggests she is Aislabie's daughter who was presumed to have died in the London fire. Aislabie believes her completely and refuses to countenance anyone saying otherwise. Slain animals are left on the doorstep of the Hall with notes that threaten Aislabie and Elizabeth. Aislabie refuses to comprehend how many see him as the cause of their financial ruin and points Tom to a local family of poachers as the guilty party. Tom knows that this is unlikely but struggles to get Aislabie to see himself as anything beyond a victim. Kitty and Sam help Tom in his search for the truth. Tom is to face much danger, murder, deceptions, secrets and violence. There is a thrilling finale at Fountains Abbey.
This a compelling and well researched story with a fast paced narrative. The characters are colourful and vividly realised. I particularly liked Kitty and Sam Fleet. It is a well plotted and atmospheric novel that evokes the period remarkably well. There is plenty of suspense and tension along with a number of twists. A most enjoyable read that I recommend. Thanks to Hodder and Stoughton for an ARC.
August 13, 2016
Having enjoyed the two previous novels in the Thomas Hawkins series, “The Devil in the Marshalsea,” and “The Last Confession of Thomas Hawkins,” I was delighted to have the opportunity to read this. It begins in 1701 with a fire in Red Lion Square, London; house of John Aislabie. The first is started by a young maid, and the repercussions of that event come back to haunt Aislabie in 1728.
John Aislabie had been Chancellor of the Exchequer during the South Sea Scheme; when the bubble burst leaving many bankrupt and causing the previously successful Aislabie to slink away to his country home, Studley Royal in Yorkshire. Now he has contacted the queen, believing his life to be in danger and she, in turn, sends Hawkins, and his ward, Sam Fleet, to investigate. However, Hawkins is also given another mission – to discover the whereabouts of the green ledger, with the names of over one hundred illustrious names who made a profit from the South Sea shares.
From the very beginning, Aislabie seems keen to point the finger at a local family of poacher’s; making Hawkins wonder why he was needed and despite evidence that the anonymous letters and warnings about harm coming to Aislabie and his family, seem to originate from the house he lives in. There are a whole host of possible suspects and secrets at Studley Royal. These include Elizabeth Fairwood, who is possibly Aislabie’s long lost daughter, who vanished during the fire at Red Lion Square, his troubled nephew, Metcalfe Robinson and an ongoing row with neighbour, Mr Messenger, whose family have lived at nearby Fountain’s Hall for over one hundred years. Aislabie has coveted his neighbour’s property and, indeed, shows no signs of being the bankrupt penitent that Hawkins expects to find.
This is both an excellent historical mystery and also develops Hawkins character and his relationships with those closest to him – including the feisty Kitty and Sam. With secrets, hidden identities, murder and a great climax to an exciting story, this is certainly the best in a very good series. I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward to reading more of ‘Half-Hanged Hawkins,’ adventures.
John Aislabie had been Chancellor of the Exchequer during the South Sea Scheme; when the bubble burst leaving many bankrupt and causing the previously successful Aislabie to slink away to his country home, Studley Royal in Yorkshire. Now he has contacted the queen, believing his life to be in danger and she, in turn, sends Hawkins, and his ward, Sam Fleet, to investigate. However, Hawkins is also given another mission – to discover the whereabouts of the green ledger, with the names of over one hundred illustrious names who made a profit from the South Sea shares.
From the very beginning, Aislabie seems keen to point the finger at a local family of poacher’s; making Hawkins wonder why he was needed and despite evidence that the anonymous letters and warnings about harm coming to Aislabie and his family, seem to originate from the house he lives in. There are a whole host of possible suspects and secrets at Studley Royal. These include Elizabeth Fairwood, who is possibly Aislabie’s long lost daughter, who vanished during the fire at Red Lion Square, his troubled nephew, Metcalfe Robinson and an ongoing row with neighbour, Mr Messenger, whose family have lived at nearby Fountain’s Hall for over one hundred years. Aislabie has coveted his neighbour’s property and, indeed, shows no signs of being the bankrupt penitent that Hawkins expects to find.
This is both an excellent historical mystery and also develops Hawkins character and his relationships with those closest to him – including the feisty Kitty and Sam. With secrets, hidden identities, murder and a great climax to an exciting story, this is certainly the best in a very good series. I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward to reading more of ‘Half-Hanged Hawkins,’ adventures.
June 28, 2016
In the 1720s Tom Hawkins, rake and hapless bon-viveur, has been sent by the queen on a mission to Yorkshire – to recover an account book relating to the South Sea Share scandal which might reflect very badly on the royal family. While resident at the house of John Aislabie, the man who had been Chancellor during the financial crash, a series of violent threats culminate in murder. Hawkins finds himself investigating the threats, the murders and uncovers scandals which are familial and personal as much as financial.
This is an impressive historical thriller which combines a number of complex plot threads and held this reader’s interest throughout. The author has been clearly inspired by the wonderful setting of Studley Royal and Fountains Abbey and has written a novel set at the time when the famous water gardens were being created. Characterisation is a real strength of the novel, especially regarding the historical John Aislabie whose mixture of arrogance, defiance and paranoia in the wake of the disastrous South Sea Bubble rings very true. I enjoyed this novel very much.
This is an impressive historical thriller which combines a number of complex plot threads and held this reader’s interest throughout. The author has been clearly inspired by the wonderful setting of Studley Royal and Fountains Abbey and has written a novel set at the time when the famous water gardens were being created. Characterisation is a real strength of the novel, especially regarding the historical John Aislabie whose mixture of arrogance, defiance and paranoia in the wake of the disastrous South Sea Bubble rings very true. I enjoyed this novel very much.
September 15, 2016
I've enjoyed every one of the novels in this series. Tom Hawkins is definitely one of my favourite fictional characters. Great charm and a rollicking story in this fabulous Georgian mystery.
August 25, 2018
More welcome adventures with Thomas Hawkins. Tom continues to get out of the scrapes his way of life land him in. This is Antonia Hodgson's third in her Georgian historical mystery series featuring young Tom (mid 20s), rebellious son of a parson, who lives life fully and recklessly, with gambling, drinking and womanizing (not so much of the latter since he is with his Kitty), all the while getting mixed up in trouble along the way.
Book One (THE DEVIL IN THE MARSHALSEA) finds him in debtors' prison where a murder occurs and must be resolved. In Book Two (THE LAST CONFESSIONS OF THOMAS HAWKINS), Tom is out of prison but ends up accused of another murder and is almost hanged for the crime. Pardoned by Queen Caroline (wife of King George II), Tom is again a "free" man but is more or less obliged to the queen and forced to do her bidding. So in this, Book Three, he is sent off by her to Yorkshire, on the supposed mission of investigating death threats to John Aislable, disgraced former Chancellor of the Exchequer during the time of the South Sea Bubble scandal.
Aislabie now lives in Yorkshire at his estate Studley Royal with his second wife Judith. In addition to his connection to the South Sea scandal, Aislabie also has another incident in his past which is important to the plot of this book. 27 years ago, a fire set in his London home killed his first wife and his youngest daughter Lizzie. The why and how makes for compelling reading in the Prologue to this book.
Now, in the present, we have Tom, his lover Kitty, and his "ward" Sam coming to Studley Royal under the guise of investigating the death threats, but they really are there to find a green ledger in his possession which incriminates many prominent figures during the time of the South Sea financial scandal and could be used for blackmail. Queen Caroline wants that ledger found and destroyed. To compound the issues at the estate it seems that Aislabie's long-lost daughter Lizzie, supposedly killed in the fire 27 years ago, has been found and is now at Studley Royal.
Mysterious doings, a couple of murders, attempts on a life or two, and enough red herrings to keep me from figuring out the whodunit. This was a fairly complicated story, with a large cast of interesting characters, and made for an entertaining read. I particularly enjoy Hodgson's ability to integrate real historical events and real historical figures into her mysteries. In addition, her fictional characters, such as Tom, Kitty, and Sam, are very well drawn, complex and flawed, yet relatable and likeable.
To read the first two books of this series I received ARCs from Amazon's Vine program. I was surprised to find that this third book of hers hasn't even found a U.S. publisher. I had to order a paperback copy from the U.K. to continue my adventures with Tom and Kitty. Well worth the trouble, and I'm glad to see a fourth book in the series is in the works.
Book One (THE DEVIL IN THE MARSHALSEA) finds him in debtors' prison where a murder occurs and must be resolved. In Book Two (THE LAST CONFESSIONS OF THOMAS HAWKINS), Tom is out of prison but ends up accused of another murder and is almost hanged for the crime. Pardoned by Queen Caroline (wife of King George II), Tom is again a "free" man but is more or less obliged to the queen and forced to do her bidding. So in this, Book Three, he is sent off by her to Yorkshire, on the supposed mission of investigating death threats to John Aislable, disgraced former Chancellor of the Exchequer during the time of the South Sea Bubble scandal.
Aislabie now lives in Yorkshire at his estate Studley Royal with his second wife Judith. In addition to his connection to the South Sea scandal, Aislabie also has another incident in his past which is important to the plot of this book. 27 years ago, a fire set in his London home killed his first wife and his youngest daughter Lizzie. The why and how makes for compelling reading in the Prologue to this book.
Now, in the present, we have Tom, his lover Kitty, and his "ward" Sam coming to Studley Royal under the guise of investigating the death threats, but they really are there to find a green ledger in his possession which incriminates many prominent figures during the time of the South Sea financial scandal and could be used for blackmail. Queen Caroline wants that ledger found and destroyed. To compound the issues at the estate it seems that Aislabie's long-lost daughter Lizzie, supposedly killed in the fire 27 years ago, has been found and is now at Studley Royal.
Mysterious doings, a couple of murders, attempts on a life or two, and enough red herrings to keep me from figuring out the whodunit. This was a fairly complicated story, with a large cast of interesting characters, and made for an entertaining read. I particularly enjoy Hodgson's ability to integrate real historical events and real historical figures into her mysteries. In addition, her fictional characters, such as Tom, Kitty, and Sam, are very well drawn, complex and flawed, yet relatable and likeable.
To read the first two books of this series I received ARCs from Amazon's Vine program. I was surprised to find that this third book of hers hasn't even found a U.S. publisher. I had to order a paperback copy from the U.K. to continue my adventures with Tom and Kitty. Well worth the trouble, and I'm glad to see a fourth book in the series is in the works.
December 27, 2017
More welcome adventures with Thomas Hawkins. Tom continues to get out of the scrapes his way of life land him in. This is Antonia Hodgson's third in her Georgian historical mystery series featuring young Tom (mid 20s), rebellious son of a parson, who lives life fully and recklessly, with gambling, drinking and womanizing (not so much of the latter since he is with his Kitty), all the while getting mixed up in trouble along the way.
Book One (THE DEVIL IN THE MARSHALSEA) finds him in debtors' prison where a murder occurs and must be resolved. In Book Two (THE LAST CONFESSIONS OF THOMAS HAWKINS), Tom is out of prison but ends up accused of another murder and is almost hanged for the crime. Pardoned by Queen Caroline (wife of King George II), Tom is again a "free" man but is more or less obliged to the queen and forced to do her bidding. So in this, Book Three, he is sent off by her to Yorkshire, on the supposed mission of investigating death threats to John Aislable, disgraced former Chancellor of the Exchequer during the time of the South Sea Bubble scandal.
Aislabie now lives in Yorkshire at his estate Studley Royal with his second wife Judith. In addition to his connection to the South Sea scandal, Aislabie also has another incident in his past which is important to the plot of this book. 27 years ago, a fire set in his London home killed his first wife and his youngest daughter Lizzie. The why and how makes for compelling reading in the Prologue to this book.
Now, in the present, we have Tom, his lover Kitty, and his "ward" Sam coming to Studley Royal under the guise of investigating the death threats, but they really are there to find a green ledger in his possession which incriminates many prominent figures during the time of the South Sea financial scandal and could be used for blackmail. Queen Caroline wants that ledger found and destroyed. To compound the issues at the estate it seems that Aislabie's long-lost daughter Lizzie, supposedly killed in the fire 27 years ago, has been found and is now at Studley Royal.
Mysterious doings, a couple of murders, attempts on a life or two, and enough red herrings to keep me from figuring out the whodunit. This was a fairly complicated story, with a large cast of interesting characters, and made for an entertaining read. I particularly enjoy Hodgson's ability to integrate real historical events and real historical figures into her mysteries. In addition, her fictional characters, such as Tom, Kitty, and Sam, are very well drawn, complex and flawed, yet relatable and likeable.
To read the first two books of this series I received ARCs from Amazon's Vine program. I was surprised to find that this third book of hers hasn't even found a U.S. publisher. I had to order a paperback copy from the U.K. to continue my adventures with Tom and Kitty. Well worth the trouble, and I'm glad to see a fourth book in the series is in the works.
Book One (THE DEVIL IN THE MARSHALSEA) finds him in debtors' prison where a murder occurs and must be resolved. In Book Two (THE LAST CONFESSIONS OF THOMAS HAWKINS), Tom is out of prison but ends up accused of another murder and is almost hanged for the crime. Pardoned by Queen Caroline (wife of King George II), Tom is again a "free" man but is more or less obliged to the queen and forced to do her bidding. So in this, Book Three, he is sent off by her to Yorkshire, on the supposed mission of investigating death threats to John Aislable, disgraced former Chancellor of the Exchequer during the time of the South Sea Bubble scandal.
Aislabie now lives in Yorkshire at his estate Studley Royal with his second wife Judith. In addition to his connection to the South Sea scandal, Aislabie also has another incident in his past which is important to the plot of this book. 27 years ago, a fire set in his London home killed his first wife and his youngest daughter Lizzie. The why and how makes for compelling reading in the Prologue to this book.
Now, in the present, we have Tom, his lover Kitty, and his "ward" Sam coming to Studley Royal under the guise of investigating the death threats, but they really are there to find a green ledger in his possession which incriminates many prominent figures during the time of the South Sea financial scandal and could be used for blackmail. Queen Caroline wants that ledger found and destroyed. To compound the issues at the estate it seems that Aislabie's long-lost daughter Lizzie, supposedly killed in the fire 27 years ago, has been found and is now at Studley Royal.
Mysterious doings, a couple of murders, attempts on a life or two, and enough red herrings to keep me from figuring out the whodunit. This was a fairly complicated story, with a large cast of interesting characters, and made for an entertaining read. I particularly enjoy Hodgson's ability to integrate real historical events and real historical figures into her mysteries. In addition, her fictional characters, such as Tom, Kitty, and Sam, are very well drawn, complex and flawed, yet relatable and likeable.
To read the first two books of this series I received ARCs from Amazon's Vine program. I was surprised to find that this third book of hers hasn't even found a U.S. publisher. I had to order a paperback copy from the U.K. to continue my adventures with Tom and Kitty. Well worth the trouble, and I'm glad to see a fourth book in the series is in the works.
October 9, 2018
This is the third Thomas Hawkins book, and I think the best so far. I love Thomas, the most unlikely of heroes and sleuths, who is known as 'half-hanged Hawkins' and granted mystical qualities by some for having escaped the noose - or rather survived the noose. It's left a deep impression on him, this rising from the dead, as it would indeed, but this is subtly and superbly done - he looks at life differently, he's vulnerable in a way that he wasn't before, though his rumbustious qualities are still part of him there is an undercurrent of fear, of no longer taking life for granted.
But I'm making this sound as if it's a philosophical tome when it's not. It's a murder mystery packed full of history at a period rarely covered. Set in the reign of George II, at a time after the 1715 Jacobite Rebellion and before the '45, it shows a society divided by politics and religion. And wealth. The South Sea Bubble has burst, leaving thousands of 'middling' types broke, while many of the elite had sufficient warning to bale out before they lost all - including the king and queen. It's impossible not to draw parallels with the recent world fiscal crisis, and to feel renewed antipathy for those in the know who were responsible and who escaped (relatively) unblemished. One of the things Antonia Hodgson does superbly well is to make history central to her plot, with real characters and events seamlessly blended, but not to make her books history lessons. Through Hawkins and his coterie, she embroils you into it, she plays on the emotional outcomes of the history rather than the facts, so it doesn't feel dry, it feels real!
I loved this. I'm going to go back and read the other two now, and then read this one again. And I do hope there's another book in the offing soon. If you've not read any of this series then I highly recommend you start with the first because although you could read this stand alone, you'd miss out on so much of Thomas's background. Did I say I loved this?
But I'm making this sound as if it's a philosophical tome when it's not. It's a murder mystery packed full of history at a period rarely covered. Set in the reign of George II, at a time after the 1715 Jacobite Rebellion and before the '45, it shows a society divided by politics and religion. And wealth. The South Sea Bubble has burst, leaving thousands of 'middling' types broke, while many of the elite had sufficient warning to bale out before they lost all - including the king and queen. It's impossible not to draw parallels with the recent world fiscal crisis, and to feel renewed antipathy for those in the know who were responsible and who escaped (relatively) unblemished. One of the things Antonia Hodgson does superbly well is to make history central to her plot, with real characters and events seamlessly blended, but not to make her books history lessons. Through Hawkins and his coterie, she embroils you into it, she plays on the emotional outcomes of the history rather than the facts, so it doesn't feel dry, it feels real!
I loved this. I'm going to go back and read the other two now, and then read this one again. And I do hope there's another book in the offing soon. If you've not read any of this series then I highly recommend you start with the first because although you could read this stand alone, you'd miss out on so much of Thomas's background. Did I say I loved this?
October 24, 2018
Five star book. Five star writing! Five star series! Can't miss on this Georgian mystery, third book of the Thomas Hawkins series!
This is one of those rare occasions, for me, where the ebook was unavailable in English and I had to order the paperback edition from a publishing house in the UK! Well worth the effort, though.
Award winning author Antonia Hodgson definitely has a way with words...her writing is most engaging and her humor dry and with perfect timing.
Protagonist Thomas Hawkins, rake, laid back, doesn't-give-a-damn socially but with a clearcut ethical personality is sent by Queen Caroline as an investigator on the court's behalf to look into the threats to an ex-political figure....or is he??? Thomas isn't the type to relish such an appointment, so why does he do it? Especially when met with very unpleasant welcome and circumstances.
Once started, this book is hard to put down. The characters are drawn from true historical figures and so well described they live on every page. The mystery is just that...a mystery to the end, full of Thomas and his companions as they strive to unravel who's who and what's what. All secondary characters are well described and developed.
I anxiously await the fourth book in this exemplary series and highly recommend to readers of historical fiction. Congratulations Antonia on another hit!!! Love it!
This is one of those rare occasions, for me, where the ebook was unavailable in English and I had to order the paperback edition from a publishing house in the UK! Well worth the effort, though.
Award winning author Antonia Hodgson definitely has a way with words...her writing is most engaging and her humor dry and with perfect timing.
Protagonist Thomas Hawkins, rake, laid back, doesn't-give-a-damn socially but with a clearcut ethical personality is sent by Queen Caroline as an investigator on the court's behalf to look into the threats to an ex-political figure....or is he??? Thomas isn't the type to relish such an appointment, so why does he do it? Especially when met with very unpleasant welcome and circumstances.
Once started, this book is hard to put down. The characters are drawn from true historical figures and so well described they live on every page. The mystery is just that...a mystery to the end, full of Thomas and his companions as they strive to unravel who's who and what's what. All secondary characters are well described and developed.
I anxiously await the fourth book in this exemplary series and highly recommend to readers of historical fiction. Congratulations Antonia on another hit!!! Love it!
September 5, 2016
Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant! I loved this every bit as much as her first two novels. This novel has a fantastic historical atmosphere, a cracking pace, a good mystery and it is witty in all the right places. I just love the characters of Tom and Kitty. I really hope there will be many more novels to come in this series. Although they are somewhat different, these novels by Antonia Hodgson are filling the gap in my reading list that has been left by the absence over the past couple of years of CJ Sansom's wonderful Matthew Shardlake novels.
January 11, 2019
In 1728, Thomas Hawkins has been sent on an assignment of sorts by Queen Caroline. John Aislabie had been Chancellor of the Exchequer where he swayed high members of parliament as well as the Royal Family to sink funds into questionable investments. Now retired to an estate in Yorkshire, he still maintains documents that could lead to blackmail of those same dignitaries. Hawkins, along with his main squeeze Kitty and ward, Sam become Aislabie’s house guests under a premise of solving a series of gruesome threats he has received. It is not long before the mysteries mount and the danger escalates.
The third novel in this series is another fine product of Antonia Hodgson’s fertile imagination combined with actual historical events. It’s a mystery that actually evolves into a thriller. The atmosphere provided by an English estate in the early 18th century accompanied by an intriguing murder plot and unique characters is simply too good to pass up. There are quite a few characters and sorting out their motivations is part of Hawkins’ job in solving the mystery as well as handling the escalating danger once the murderer is uncovered but not captured. The story moves along swiftly but is not without its endearing moments as Hawkins’ relationships with Kitty and Sam evolve.
This series has become one of my favorites in this genre. I never know what kind of a story will unfold but can certainly count on plenty of intrigue as the pages flow by.
The third novel in this series is another fine product of Antonia Hodgson’s fertile imagination combined with actual historical events. It’s a mystery that actually evolves into a thriller. The atmosphere provided by an English estate in the early 18th century accompanied by an intriguing murder plot and unique characters is simply too good to pass up. There are quite a few characters and sorting out their motivations is part of Hawkins’ job in solving the mystery as well as handling the escalating danger once the murderer is uncovered but not captured. The story moves along swiftly but is not without its endearing moments as Hawkins’ relationships with Kitty and Sam evolve.
This series has become one of my favorites in this genre. I never know what kind of a story will unfold but can certainly count on plenty of intrigue as the pages flow by.
April 30, 2022
This novel continues where the previous one, The Last Confession of Thomas Hawkins, left off with Thomas and Kitty on their way to Yorkshire. Queen Caroline has blackmailed them into going on a quest for her at the house of Sir John Aislabie, former Chancellor of the Exchequer and architect of the South Sea Bubble scandal.
I really enjoyed the historical background to this mystery and the setting of Fountains Abbey and Studley Park. The author has added in a number of real historical characters and woven around them a convincing story of deception and revenge. Thomas is becoming more thoughtful and less reckless after his brush with the hangman, and his relationship with Kitty and Sam becomes more developed and touching.
I felt that the villain was revealed a little too early which detracted from the thrilling denouement, but overall this was an entertaining and well researched historical mystery.
I really enjoyed the historical background to this mystery and the setting of Fountains Abbey and Studley Park. The author has added in a number of real historical characters and woven around them a convincing story of deception and revenge. Thomas is becoming more thoughtful and less reckless after his brush with the hangman, and his relationship with Kitty and Sam becomes more developed and touching.
I felt that the villain was revealed a little too early which detracted from the thrilling denouement, but overall this was an entertaining and well researched historical mystery.
February 15, 2017
Antonia Hodgson's first novel - 'The Devil in the Marshalsea' won prizes, awards and popular acclaim. It was also the novel in which Tom Hawkins first appears. As that era - 17thC - is usually depicted as all bums, tits, fuck and curse by most writers I find them irritating to read. There was a lot more to the 17thC than the jolly squire, outspoken spinster, mealy mouthed parson, goodhearted prostitute, and lovable rogue gentleman. I read 'A Death at Fountains Abbey' though because it did actually look at the South Sea Bubble in depth and enlightened me on some aspects which had puzzled me.
I do find the lovable rogue gentleman Tom tedious, but there is no doubt that Ms Hogson can write well, create lively and interesting characters, spin a darn good story and make her readers laugh. For less fastidious readers who don't mind the unbalanced portrayal of the 17thC this is an exciting read. For fussy beggars like me, well if you can forgive the 17thC clichés the book is a good evening's entertainment.
I do find the lovable rogue gentleman Tom tedious, but there is no doubt that Ms Hogson can write well, create lively and interesting characters, spin a darn good story and make her readers laugh. For less fastidious readers who don't mind the unbalanced portrayal of the 17thC this is an exciting read. For fussy beggars like me, well if you can forgive the 17thC clichés the book is a good evening's entertainment.
May 14, 2018
I was given this as a present and did not immediately know that it was the third book in a series. It can be read as a standalone, but I have a strong suspicion (after having done so) that it would have been much better read in order. The author does not presume any previous knowledge on the part of the reader, but the main characters and their relationships, especially in the beginning, felt very much tell not show, because much of it was, presumably, built up in previous novels.
That being said, this is a very entertaining historical mystery. I particularly enjoyed the narrator's sense of humour, the build up of the mystery and world-building. Hodgson succeeds in making the novel feel like the 18th century, without making it tedious for the reader. There's an entertaining note at the back about the research she did for the novel and the real-life characters that served as inspiration for the ones she uses in her story.
I will definitely look up the previous two books in the series.
That being said, this is a very entertaining historical mystery. I particularly enjoyed the narrator's sense of humour, the build up of the mystery and world-building. Hodgson succeeds in making the novel feel like the 18th century, without making it tedious for the reader. There's an entertaining note at the back about the research she did for the novel and the real-life characters that served as inspiration for the ones she uses in her story.
I will definitely look up the previous two books in the series.
February 5, 2018
This novel is the third in a series of witty, fast-paced historical murder mysteries set in Georgian times in England. The hero, Thomas Hawkins, is a rake and a gambler who has spent time in prison for debt and was almost hanged in Book 2: The Last Confession of Thomas Hawkins. And when I say ‘almost hanged’, I mean it. He still carries the scar of the hangman’s noose in this, his third adventure. Sent by the queen to investigate threats of murder against one of England’s richest men, Thomas finds himself drawn into a puzzling mystery which soon escalates into violence. The prose gallops along, enlivened by Thomas’s cynical asides, and the story is full of surprises. If you haven’t read Antonia Hodgson before, start with Book 1: The Devil in the Marshalsea. The whole series is great.
September 17, 2019
I loved the plot. I was immediately gripped. Who would want to kill Aislabie? Lots of people (me included at several moments through the book!) have grudges with him. But at least his servants and family are loyal - aren't they? You'll have to read the book to find out!
I found the main character, Tom Hawkins, a likeable man. His determination to find the truth was admirable. Aislabie wasn't an unlikeable character - it was more his stubbornness that annoyed me!
I really enjoyed it - and was fascinated by the historical notes at the end of the book that talks of what really happened - the characters and events.
I found the main character, Tom Hawkins, a likeable man. His determination to find the truth was admirable. Aislabie wasn't an unlikeable character - it was more his stubbornness that annoyed me!
I really enjoyed it - and was fascinated by the historical notes at the end of the book that talks of what really happened - the characters and events.
February 26, 2022
Another brilliant read in the Thomas Hawkins series, although a star deducted because I noticed a trend happening across the series, and I'm no fan of formulas.
However, I am still eagerly awaiting to read the 4th in this series, but will stray for a while so it feels fresh when I return 🙃
4 solid stars
However, I am still eagerly awaiting to read the 4th in this series, but will stray for a while so it feels fresh when I return 🙃
4 solid stars
February 19, 2021
The blend of real life characters and fiction was cleverly intertwined, creating an atmosphere rich in historical detail. However, i found the story line lost pace towards the middle.
April 17, 2020
Another excellent read in this series. Here Thomas Hawkins is ordered by the queen to Yorkshire to retrieve a secret ledger and to investigate threats to a local land-owner and his family.When Thomas arrives he finds all sorts of strange goings on.
May 22, 2018
Frühjahr 1728. Auf eine »Bitte« von Englands Königin Queen Caroline reist Tom Hawkins, mit allen Wassern gewaschener Gentleman, zum Herrenhaus von John Aislabie in Yorkshire. Doch die ländliche Idylle entpuppt sich für Tom schnell als Hexenkessel: Die Queen wird von Aislabie erpresst, denn der ehemalige Schatzkanzler war mitverantwortlich für die »Südseeblase«, den größten Finanzskandal des 18. Jahrhunderts. Aislabie wiederum erhält seit einiger Zeit zunehmend blutigere Drohbriefe. Ehe Tom es sich versieht, gerät er zwischen alle Fronten und mitten hinein in einen mörderischen Racheplan.
Britischer (Galgen-)Humor, Tempo und authentische Einblicke in die Intrigen des 18. Jahrhunderts - das ist Antonia Hodgson!...(Klappentext)
♘♘♘♘♘♘♘♘♘♘
"Hier war er.
Der Tod, den ich aus London mitgebracht hatte. Hier war er und breitete sich wie ein Mantel über das Anwesen aus. Und ich wusste, während ich die Tür aufdrückte. dass er noch nicht mit mir fertig war." (S. 258)
Aislabie war einst Schatzmeister der Königlichen Hoheit und kaufte Aktien der Südseegesellschaft. Die Aktien stiegen in ungeahnte Höhen, bis die Südseeblase schließlich platzte und viele Investoren ins Verderbnis führte. Aislabie wurde der Korruption für schuldig gesprochen und dafür in den Tower geworfen. Nach einer kurzen Zeit wurde ihm jedoch der Rückzug in sein Landhaus gewährt. Die Ungnade war ihm jedoch gewiss. Trotzdem bittet er die Königin um ihre Hilfe (wobei es sich eher um eine Drohung, bzw. Erpressung handelte), da er seit Wochen beängstigende Drohbriefe erhält. Diese schickt niemand Geringeren als Thomas Hawkins zu ihm. Jedoch nicht um ihm beizustehen, sondern mit einem gänzlich anderen Auftrag.
Tom Hawkins kommt zwar aus gutem Hause und hatte in jungen Jahren ein Theologiestudium begonnen, aber seine Vorliebe für Glücksspiel, Bordelle und andere Vergnügungen ließen ihn tief fallen. Er war bereits Insasse im berüchtigten Marshalsea-Gefängnis und auch zum Galgentod verurteilt.
Durch seine Gerissenheit, seinen Scharfsinn, sowie seinen Charme und vor allem durch eine große Portion Glück, konnte er seinen Kopf bisher jedoch immer rechtzeitig aus der Schlinge ziehen - im wahrsten Sinne. Nach seiner Nahtod-Erfahrung versucht Hawkins ein ehrbares und vor allem ruhiges Leben zu führen. Leider ist er jedoch seiner Königlichen Hoheit etwas schuldig und somit ist er derjenige dem das Los zufiel sich um Aislabie zu kümmern.
"Es war ein untrügliches Zeichen dafür, wie schlecht es um Mr. Aislabies Ansehen am königlichen Hof bereits bestellt war, dass er sich bei besagtem jungen Gentleman ausgerechnet um mich handelte." (S. 21)
Hawkins reist natürlich nicht alleine. Sam, ein 14-jähriger Junge begleitet ihn. So unschuldig dieser aussieht ist er aber bei weitem nicht. Er ist der Sohn des berüchtigsten Gangsterbosses in London, Neffe eines Auftragsmörders und hat es faustdick hinter den Ohren. Tja, Gleich und Gleich gesellt sich eben gerne.
Hawkins kann es natürlich nicht lassen trotzdem Detektiv zu spielen und gerät alsbald wieder einmal in die Bredouille. Doch diesmal bringt er dabei nicht nur sich in größte Gefahr...(persönliche Inhaltsangabe)
♘♘♘
Dies ist der 3. Teil der Tom Hawkins-Reihe und schließt fast direkt an den 2. Teil an. Trotzdem kann er durchaus unabhängig und ohne Vorkenntnisse gelesen werden. Da jedoch oft auf vergangene Ereignisse eingegangen wird und diese auch Einfluß auf die Charakterentwicklung haben, wäre es natürlich von Vorteil diese Serie der Reihe nach zu lesen. So kommt man in den vollständigen Genuß dieser atmosphärischen Thriller-Reihe und auch in den vorliegenden 3. Teil.
Der Schreibstil ist, wie gewohnt, flüssig und einfach gehalten und daher fliegt man direkt durch das Buch...zumindest ab des ersten Drittels, denn bis dahin kommt es diesmal zu einigen Längen, die etwas an meinen Nerven zerrten. Die Autorin schweift hier ständig in ausführliche (verdammt, und wie ausführlich diese waren) Umgebungsbeschreibungen und Nebensächlichkeiten ab.
Er sprach weiter in der ihm eigenen ernsten Manier über Zweck und Kraft, gerippte Tonnengewölbe und Lanzettenbögen, dieweil ich ernsthaft erwog, Messenger zu überreden mich doch noch zu erschießen." (S. 169)
Jap, ich konnte an dieser Stelle Hawkins verstehen, denn ich empfand ähnlich.
In den vorherigen beiden Teilen war diese Detailverliebtheit in genau dem richtigen Maß, um atmosphärische Bilder im Kopf entstehen zu lassen. Hier hat die Autorin damit jedoch stark übertrieben und es wurde zunehmend ermüdend der Handlung zu folgen, da die Story dadurch sehr schleppend bis gar nicht in die Gänge kommt.
Ich war wirklich knapp davor das Buch zuzuklappen. Nur gut, dass ich es nicht getan habe, denn ab dem 1. Drittel nahm der Spannungs- und Tempo-Level stark zu und ich klebte regelrecht mit der Nase im Buch.
Hier waren wieder diese atmosphärischen Bilder, der packende Erzählstil und der Plot, welcher Wendungen und ein tolles Finale enthält.
"Drei junge Hirsche lagen zu einem Dreieck angeordnet in der Kutschenauffahrt.
Jemand hatte ihnen die Köpfe abgeschlagen und die Bäuche aufgeschlitzt.
Dohlen stolzierten um die Kadaver herum, krächzten laut und zerrten an dem Fleisch. Sie hatten den Hirschen bereits die Augen ausgehackt." (S. 141)
Ich liebe historische Krimis/Thriller, die sich auf reale historische Ereignisse stützen und/oder Charaktere beinhalten, welche wirklich einst existierten. Das ist auch bei dieser historischen Thriller-Reihe und somit auch in diesem Buch der Fall.
Am Ende der Story findet man interessante und informative Historische Anmerkungen der Autorin bezüglich des vorliegenden Thrillers und lohnt sich durchaus beachtet zu werden.
Fazit:
Obwohl dieser historische Thriller knapp davor war in der Ecke zu landen, hat er nochmal die Kurve gekriegt und zwar sowas von. So gelangweilt ich war und gegen Ende des ersten Drittels war ich sogar regelrecht genervt, so sehr konnte mich der Rest packen und begeistern. Ich konnte und wollte nicht mehr aufhören zu lesen und somit hat die Autorin ein weiteres Mal alles richtig gemacht, um mich ins frühe 18. Jahrhundert zu ziehen und mich für paar Stunden toll zu unterhalten.
© Pink Anemone
Britischer (Galgen-)Humor, Tempo und authentische Einblicke in die Intrigen des 18. Jahrhunderts - das ist Antonia Hodgson!...(Klappentext)
♘♘♘♘♘♘♘♘♘♘
"Hier war er.
Der Tod, den ich aus London mitgebracht hatte. Hier war er und breitete sich wie ein Mantel über das Anwesen aus. Und ich wusste, während ich die Tür aufdrückte. dass er noch nicht mit mir fertig war." (S. 258)
Aislabie war einst Schatzmeister der Königlichen Hoheit und kaufte Aktien der Südseegesellschaft. Die Aktien stiegen in ungeahnte Höhen, bis die Südseeblase schließlich platzte und viele Investoren ins Verderbnis führte. Aislabie wurde der Korruption für schuldig gesprochen und dafür in den Tower geworfen. Nach einer kurzen Zeit wurde ihm jedoch der Rückzug in sein Landhaus gewährt. Die Ungnade war ihm jedoch gewiss. Trotzdem bittet er die Königin um ihre Hilfe (wobei es sich eher um eine Drohung, bzw. Erpressung handelte), da er seit Wochen beängstigende Drohbriefe erhält. Diese schickt niemand Geringeren als Thomas Hawkins zu ihm. Jedoch nicht um ihm beizustehen, sondern mit einem gänzlich anderen Auftrag.
Tom Hawkins kommt zwar aus gutem Hause und hatte in jungen Jahren ein Theologiestudium begonnen, aber seine Vorliebe für Glücksspiel, Bordelle und andere Vergnügungen ließen ihn tief fallen. Er war bereits Insasse im berüchtigten Marshalsea-Gefängnis und auch zum Galgentod verurteilt.
Durch seine Gerissenheit, seinen Scharfsinn, sowie seinen Charme und vor allem durch eine große Portion Glück, konnte er seinen Kopf bisher jedoch immer rechtzeitig aus der Schlinge ziehen - im wahrsten Sinne. Nach seiner Nahtod-Erfahrung versucht Hawkins ein ehrbares und vor allem ruhiges Leben zu führen. Leider ist er jedoch seiner Königlichen Hoheit etwas schuldig und somit ist er derjenige dem das Los zufiel sich um Aislabie zu kümmern.
"Es war ein untrügliches Zeichen dafür, wie schlecht es um Mr. Aislabies Ansehen am königlichen Hof bereits bestellt war, dass er sich bei besagtem jungen Gentleman ausgerechnet um mich handelte." (S. 21)
Hawkins reist natürlich nicht alleine. Sam, ein 14-jähriger Junge begleitet ihn. So unschuldig dieser aussieht ist er aber bei weitem nicht. Er ist der Sohn des berüchtigsten Gangsterbosses in London, Neffe eines Auftragsmörders und hat es faustdick hinter den Ohren. Tja, Gleich und Gleich gesellt sich eben gerne.
Hawkins kann es natürlich nicht lassen trotzdem Detektiv zu spielen und gerät alsbald wieder einmal in die Bredouille. Doch diesmal bringt er dabei nicht nur sich in größte Gefahr...(persönliche Inhaltsangabe)
♘♘♘
Dies ist der 3. Teil der Tom Hawkins-Reihe und schließt fast direkt an den 2. Teil an. Trotzdem kann er durchaus unabhängig und ohne Vorkenntnisse gelesen werden. Da jedoch oft auf vergangene Ereignisse eingegangen wird und diese auch Einfluß auf die Charakterentwicklung haben, wäre es natürlich von Vorteil diese Serie der Reihe nach zu lesen. So kommt man in den vollständigen Genuß dieser atmosphärischen Thriller-Reihe und auch in den vorliegenden 3. Teil.
Der Schreibstil ist, wie gewohnt, flüssig und einfach gehalten und daher fliegt man direkt durch das Buch...zumindest ab des ersten Drittels, denn bis dahin kommt es diesmal zu einigen Längen, die etwas an meinen Nerven zerrten. Die Autorin schweift hier ständig in ausführliche (verdammt, und wie ausführlich diese waren) Umgebungsbeschreibungen und Nebensächlichkeiten ab.
Er sprach weiter in der ihm eigenen ernsten Manier über Zweck und Kraft, gerippte Tonnengewölbe und Lanzettenbögen, dieweil ich ernsthaft erwog, Messenger zu überreden mich doch noch zu erschießen." (S. 169)
Jap, ich konnte an dieser Stelle Hawkins verstehen, denn ich empfand ähnlich.
In den vorherigen beiden Teilen war diese Detailverliebtheit in genau dem richtigen Maß, um atmosphärische Bilder im Kopf entstehen zu lassen. Hier hat die Autorin damit jedoch stark übertrieben und es wurde zunehmend ermüdend der Handlung zu folgen, da die Story dadurch sehr schleppend bis gar nicht in die Gänge kommt.
Ich war wirklich knapp davor das Buch zuzuklappen. Nur gut, dass ich es nicht getan habe, denn ab dem 1. Drittel nahm der Spannungs- und Tempo-Level stark zu und ich klebte regelrecht mit der Nase im Buch.
Hier waren wieder diese atmosphärischen Bilder, der packende Erzählstil und der Plot, welcher Wendungen und ein tolles Finale enthält.
"Drei junge Hirsche lagen zu einem Dreieck angeordnet in der Kutschenauffahrt.
Jemand hatte ihnen die Köpfe abgeschlagen und die Bäuche aufgeschlitzt.
Dohlen stolzierten um die Kadaver herum, krächzten laut und zerrten an dem Fleisch. Sie hatten den Hirschen bereits die Augen ausgehackt." (S. 141)
Ich liebe historische Krimis/Thriller, die sich auf reale historische Ereignisse stützen und/oder Charaktere beinhalten, welche wirklich einst existierten. Das ist auch bei dieser historischen Thriller-Reihe und somit auch in diesem Buch der Fall.
Am Ende der Story findet man interessante und informative Historische Anmerkungen der Autorin bezüglich des vorliegenden Thrillers und lohnt sich durchaus beachtet zu werden.
Fazit:
Obwohl dieser historische Thriller knapp davor war in der Ecke zu landen, hat er nochmal die Kurve gekriegt und zwar sowas von. So gelangweilt ich war und gegen Ende des ersten Drittels war ich sogar regelrecht genervt, so sehr konnte mich der Rest packen und begeistern. Ich konnte und wollte nicht mehr aufhören zu lesen und somit hat die Autorin ein weiteres Mal alles richtig gemacht, um mich ins frühe 18. Jahrhundert zu ziehen und mich für paar Stunden toll zu unterhalten.
© Pink Anemone
December 16, 2016
Didn't love this as much as the first two in the series, but Thomas is still a wonderful, sometimes perceptive, sometimes obtuse rogue while Kitty and Sam still win my vote for best scene stealers in current detective fiction. Too bad this series lost its US publisher. Fingers crossed another house picks up this, and future, installments.
February 6, 2018
I had this for months before getting round to reading it . I put it off not even realising it was the third Thomas Hawkins instalment ! Silly me !
I really enjoy the style of writing and I love Thomas as a character he’s so relatable and such a loveable character .
I really enjoy the style of writing and I love Thomas as a character he’s so relatable and such a loveable character .
January 2, 2022
A very good addition to the Tom Hawkins series. This time the action moves away from London to Yorkshire, where Tom has been sent supposedly to help John Aislabie who has received death threats. But in reality he has been sent by Queen Caroline to steal a ledger from Aislabie concerning dealings in the South Sea investment scheme whereby royalty and members of the aristocracy made large sums through manipulation. When the bubble burst, many ordinary people were ruined. If the contents of the ledger were ever revealed it was feared it could lead to insurrection and the replacement of the Hanoverian monarchy with the old Stuart line.
The action takes place at a fair lick. Tom, as ever, manages to survive with a fair dollop of good luck. The writing is colourful and surprisingly humorous given the amount of violence and violent deaths.
What I particularly like about these books is that, while the main characters and events are fictitious, they are set alongside real people and events. For instance, Aislabie really existed in the way portrayed here, as did his family and some of his servants. The Gills, a family perceived by Aislabie as poachers, also existed. It all makes for an interesting and satisfying read.
The action takes place at a fair lick. Tom, as ever, manages to survive with a fair dollop of good luck. The writing is colourful and surprisingly humorous given the amount of violence and violent deaths.
What I particularly like about these books is that, while the main characters and events are fictitious, they are set alongside real people and events. For instance, Aislabie really existed in the way portrayed here, as did his family and some of his servants. The Gills, a family perceived by Aislabie as poachers, also existed. It all makes for an interesting and satisfying read.
January 8, 2021
If I had left a gap between A Death at Fountain's Abbey and the previous two Thomas Hawkins novels, I probably would have enjoyed the former more. This is a more straightforward whodunnit with a narrower cast of characters and country house setting. If you think of Antonia Hodgson as on a spectrum between Hilary Mantel and Agatha Christie, this one is markedly closer to Christie than its predecessors.
It has the pace, atmosphere and vivid characterisation of the previous two novels, but the extreme peril at the denouement Hawkin's is a little bit Bond-villain-plotting-gratuitously-complicated death.
It has the pace, atmosphere and vivid characterisation of the previous two novels, but the extreme peril at the denouement Hawkin's is a little bit Bond-villain-plotting-gratuitously-complicated death.
September 8, 2025
This was gifted to me by my friend who took me to Fountains Abbey when I visited her in the UK. As a result, this was a very atmospheric read for me and I loved it! It also was everything I enjoy from a mystery and thriller, in ways that popular "popcorn" thrillers that rule the genre today do not offer. The writing was fantastic and so many scenes I could visualize happening thanks to the storytelling and the fact that every character had their own motive for being part of the larger plot. No character felt extraneous. I suppose the only thing that lacked a finish for me was that the "finale" and conclusion was a bit underwhelming. I enjoyed this so much though!
January 30, 2018
I have fond memories of visiting Fountains Abbey and the water gardens at Studley Royal with my family when I was a boy and later when my neice was little. Now a married woman she has given me this novel which is set at this very place. Strictly speaking, despite the title, Fountains Abbey does not feature much in the novel, most of the action taking place at Studley Royal and its water gardens. But I enjoyed revisiting these beautiful locations through historical fiction, even though I found the plot rather predictable and the characters not particularly engaging. However, since most of them are based on real historical figures who lived, worked and died there, if I am ever able to visit again, the knowledge I now have of their lives will make my visit even more special.
January 17, 2022
Third in this series of Georgian mysteries and as always, a very enjoyable read!
November 29, 2022
Fantastic story! Kept me guessing at every chapter ending. Couldn't stop reading this phenomenal book!
August 12, 2024
Another great read from Antonia Hodgson..what more is there to say? 😍
January 28, 2018
Absolutely loved this book. I’m a volunteer at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal and know the area very well, and this brought it to life very vividly. I want to read the others in the series now.
April 1, 2021
Another delightful adventure about Tom Hawkins, Kitty and Sam Flint, with intriguing characters and plots. It involves a true event, the South Sea stock crash, which landed John Aislabie, Chancellor of the Exchequer, in the Tower and caused bankruptcy for many people, especially the aristocracy. The story opens at his family estate where Tom has been sent by the Queen to find an account book which names all the people implicated in buying shares at corrupt prices, including the King. The story gains momentum as the different characters emerge with their own backgrounds and there is a nice little twist towards the end. Really worthwhile read.
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