It’s New York City in 1845 and there is an invasion taking place. Irish Catholics abound and the Protestant masses are grouping to defend against the threat of papacy. Sound familiar? Well substitute the words Muslim for Catholic and you can see that everything old is new again. But I digress.
It is an atmosphere where a fledgling police force is cobbled together and called Copper Stars for the badges they wear. Thieves patter is common street talk and child prostitutes are disappearing from brothels never to be seen again.
Our anti-hero, Timothy Wilde is hindered by his antagonistic relationship with his brother Valentine who he feels has one-upped him all of his life. Val is instrumental in getting him a job with the police force and it is frustrating for Timothy to find out that, as his brother anticipated, he is really good at this new role.
Then there’s his abiding love is for Mercy Underhill a pastor’s daughter who works tirelessly for the downtrodden. Determinedly independent, she is yet aware of Timothy’s longing for her.
This book takes you in like a baptism by total immersion. From the street scenes to politics, and society at large, you live this book.
Faye’s second book in the series Seven for a Secret is now out and has received excellent reviews.