In 1760s England, private tutor Robert Fairfax is charged with escorting his pupil, Matthew Hemsley, to London for a bit of town polish. But Fairfax is apprehensive: how can he introduce Matthew to the worldly, sophisticated atmosphere of London while at the same time protecting him from bad influences? Unfortunately, during their very first trip to the theater, Matthew instantly falls in love with the beautiful and popular actress Lucy Dove. Though she is a sweet and talented girl, her profession is most unsuitable, so Fairfax hopes that Matthew's infatuation is only temporary. But Matthew gets into even bigger trouble when Lucy is murdered shortly afterwards, and he is found at the crime scene under very suspicious circumstances. When Matthew is actually arrested for the murder, Fairfax knows it is his duty to clear his pupil's name -- which means launching an investigation to discover the real killer.

I discovered this series by accident at a library book sale where the second and third books were available for 25 cents each, so of course I had to track down the first book as well! I was intrigued by the concept of a Georgian mystery, since I haven't seen many novels set in that era (especially compared to the much more popular 19th century!). Fortunately (or perhaps unfortunately, given the magnitude of my TBR list already), I've discovered a new mystery series to enjoy! I loved the period detail: the crush of theatergoers more interested in each other than in what's happening onstage; the elaborate wigs, patches, and high heels worn by aristocratic men and women alike; the rudimentary knowledge of medicine, including the ingestion of mercury as a cure for venereal disease. It's a fascinating time period, and March really brings the era to life. I also liked Robert Fairfax as a sleuth, and I look forward to seeing how his complex character will develop in subsequent books. Overall, I'd definitely recommend this book to fans of historical mysteries!

First in the Robert Fairfax series by Tim Wilson writing as Hannah March. The story is set in 1760, when George III has just ascended to the throne and there is a lot if uncertainty as to who the political players will be under the new King. Fairfax is a tutor, and in charge of taking his 19-year-old pupil, Matthew Hemsley, to London for a month. The day after they arrive, they meet up with an old school mate of Matthew's who introduces them to Captain Jack Stockridge, brother of London's most sought after actress, Lucy Dove. Stockridge takes them to a rehearsal where Matthew is smitten with the beautiful thespian. When Lucy is murdered, Matthew is nearby and cannot account for himself, and Fairfax must save him.

Nicely done book, a good start to the series. Good characters, decent plot. ( )

These Georgian era mysteries are exceptionally vivid with a feel for the details of the period that goes beyond aristocratic dress and manners. March moves confidently through various levels of society including such lesser known events as the enclosures, slavery, and the controversial rise of Methodism. Her characters are well drawn and generally very believable.

One caveat that I have, not so much a criticism of the writing as a piece of information for readers, March has no qualms about breaking the reader's heart by killing off likable victims by murderers seemed appealing and whose crimes seem almost like a betrayal of trust. The solving of the crime doesn't necessary solve all the characters' problems; there is sometimes an aching sense of futility. I assume that readers know their own tastes. ( )