Thief-taker Simon Westow must save one of his closest friends from a grim fate at the hands of the government in this compelling historical mystery.
Leeds, May 1822. Thief-taker Simon Westow owes Davey and Emily Ashton everything - the siblings gave him sanctuary when he needed it most. So when Davey is arrested for sedition and Emily begs Simon for help, he starts asking questions, determined to clear his friend. Are the answers linked to rumours of a mysterious government spy in town?
Davey's not the only one who needs Simon's help. Timber merchant George Ericsson has been 'hocussed' by a young woman who spiked his drink and stole his valuable ring and watch. Who is she, and how does she know one of Simon's assistant Jane's deepest secrets? The path to the truth is twisted and dangerous. Simon and Jane encounter murder, lies, betrayal and a government terrified of its own people as they attempt to save Davey and find the hocus girl. **
Review
Gripping... offers authentic period ambience, vivid characters, crisp dialogue, and plenty of twists ( * Booklist on The Hanging Psalm * )
This dark tale features a strong and sympathetic hero as well as equally appealing supporting characters ... Likely to draw in readers of Andrea Penrose, Charles Finch, and Anne Perry ( * Library Journal on The Hanging Psalm * )
An exciting debut... Steeped in Regency atmosphere, it holds your interest from beginning to end ( * Kirkus Reviews on The Hanging Psalm * )
Beautifully balanced between suspense and action... the historical background... as always, engaging, detailed and authentic ( * Joanne Harris , bestselling author of Chocolat*)
Solid... a welcome contrast to such aristocratic Regency sleuths as C.S. Harris's Sebastian St. Cyr ( * Publishers Weekly on The Hanging Psalm * )
About the Author
Chris Nickson is a well-known music journalist with over thirty non-fiction books to his credit. He is also the author of the Tom Harper and Richard Nottingham mystery series. Having lived in the USA for thirty years, he now lives in his native Leeds.