A standalone novel in the Aristide Ravel mystery series, set amid the turmoil and passion of revolutionary Paris. A brilliant series available in the UK for the first time.
For police investigator Aristide Ravel, the teeming streets and alleyways of Paris are a constant source of activity. And in the unruly climate of 1797, when gold and food are scarce, citizens will stop at very little to get what they need.
When Jeannette Moineau, an illiterate servant girl, is accused of poisoning the master of the house, Ravel cannot believe she is guilty. With the odds stacked heavily against her, Ravel is relieved to find an unexpected ally in Laurence, a young widow of the house with a surprising past.
In a household brimming with bickering and resentment, everyone seems to have a motive for poisoning old Martin Dupont. Though as the death toll rises, the list of suspects rapidly dwindles. Tensions rise as Ravel and Laurence must probe the secrets of the city's craftiest citizens to clear Jeannette's name. But finding information in dissolute, post-revolutionary Paris can lead to costly and dangerous demands.
A historical mystery set amongst the sights and sounds of 18th-century Paris. Brimming with atmosphere, scandal and murder.
The sequel to A Game of Patience.
A taut police procedural . . . Full of authentic historical detail . . . the story builds to an emotionally charged climax - Publishers Weekly
Grounded by a complex, haunted hero, the suspense in this layered mystery builds slowly but reaches a breakneck speed. - Booklist
Alleyn knows her French Revolution, creates a complex brain-teaser of a mystery, and excels in making her characters believable. In short, this book has everything; recommended - Library Journal
Alleyn's historical authenticity lifts her whodunit above the ordinary - Kirkus Reviews
A Treasury of Regrets combines the best in history and mystery . . . The mystery itself is artfully plotted and compelling; I was in due suspense as to whodunit - Historical Novels Review
The author captures the atmosphere of a nation struggling toward a social and political unity untainted by the irrational violence and cruelty of those who toppled the monarchy. Ravel is a realistic and appealing observer of a developing society - The Washington Post
Wonderful detail and psychology - Poisoned Pen