I confess I am new to this historical series set in London in the early years of the restoration just after the Great Plague and Fire in 1665/66. This is the fifth adventure of intrepid Lucy Campion, now a printer's apprentice, who is knocked over by two men when she passes a person hanging from a gallows at a popular crossroads in the city. But is it an apparent suicide or a more sinister murder? With Constable Duncan and Adam Hargrave, the latter a magistrate's son, reappearing as her potential suitors Lucy attempts to solve the mystery by way of an early cypher. Lack of knowledge of Lucy's previously published entanglements does not in any way spoil an easy and undemanding read which illustrate some of the class structure and medical practice of the period.

I adored this book and devoured it in 2 days. I have read the other books in the series but a reader doesn’t have to. The author does a great job summarizing Lucy’s background and story. The writing and attention to historical detail is very well done and well written. And the mystery keeps the reader guessing until the very end. I loved this book and can’t wait for more in the series, highly recommend!!!!