Historical fiction set in 1700s London

Submitted: 26th June 2025

The Art of a Lie

You know when a book comes along that makes you sit up and take notice. A book that makes you smile, want to hug it and certainly give it a high five. This is that book. It is one of the cleverest and most unexpected stories I have read in a long while. And I have not stopped thinking about it. I have a proof but need a HB, kindle copy and a paperback when it comes out.

Map of locations in The Art of a Lie

Art of a lie

BOARDING PASS INFORMATION

Destination : London

Author guide: Laura S Robinson

Genre: historical

Food and drink to accompany: ice cream!

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A novel to transport you to 1700s London

Map of locations in The Art of a Lie

Set in 18th-century London, this is one of the cleverest books I have ever read. A woman faces destitution after her husband is murdered. She owns a shop but men conspire to close her down as women were not expected to work and be their own boss. Henry Fielding ( real life character) is the man investigating her husband’s murder. I got a chill when I realised history and fiction were about to intertwine…

A man comes to her shop one day claiming to be her husbands’ friend. He gives her hope and makes her promises. He talks of investing to help her, helping her to find a new ice cream recipe that will change her fortunes..

Hannah is the one we meet first. So you get to hear her side of the story. Then we meet William. Well, that is where the fun starts. Just who should we believe and who is telling the truth as they try to outwit one another and the reader at the same time.

Did I say I loved this story? It excited me, felt fresh and totally authentic. I swear Laura has a time machine at home. The setting of the shop, the hansom cabs, the cobbled lanes..oh the detail was exquisite.

I read this in two sittings. If you can, do the same as it will blow your mind. Meet Hannah. Then sleep on it and then meet William.

The Art of a Lie? The art of this book is what impressed me!