The Corpse Played Dead: a gripping historical mystery set in 18th century London

Death takes centre stage. Does the killer lie in the wings?

An undercover assignment for the Bow Street magistrate sees Lizzie Hardwicke trade Mrs Farley's Bawdy House in Soho for life as a seamstress at a theatre on Drury Lane. Once there, she quickly realises that what goes on in the wings is much more intriguing than the theatrics being played out onstage...

When a high-profile investor is brutally hanged at centre stage, Lizzie discovers the body and is once again thrown together with William Davenport, the magistrate's assistant with whom she is growing ever closer. The suspect list rivals any casting call, and Lizzie must use every trick hidden up her sleeve to see through all the performance and bring the culprit into the spotlight.

The second instalment of the gripping and vividly imagined historical mystery series set in 18th century London, from the author of acclaimed historical novel The Dazzle of the Light. Perfect for fans of The Household by Stacey Halls and Daughters of the Night by Laura Shepherd-Robinson, as well as readers of Laura Purcell, Sarah Waters and Diana Gabaldon.

'A wild ride through the seedy side of 1750s London... Lizzie Hardwicke is razor sharp and brilliantly original. I couldn't put it down' - JOE HEAP, author of When the Music Stops

'This novel is a refreshing add to the historical mystery genre. Atmospheric and full of authentic details... Brava to this new, engaging voice and her strong woman protagonist!' - KAREN ODDEN, author of A Lady in the Smoke

'A gripping page-turner with a sassy and fabulously original heroine in the form of Lizzie Hardwicke – I loved it!' - ANNIE LYONS, author of Eudora Honeysett is Quite Well, Thank You

© 2025 Verve Books (Ebook): 9780857309006

Release date

Ebook: 6 March 2025