Description

 City of Scoundrels

“A Counterfeit Lady Novel”

(National Bestselling Author of The Gaslight Mysteries)

“A Bold and Cleaver Sleuth.”—Kirkus Reviews

 Elizabeth Miles, the former con woman turned Lady, finds herself facing a daunting challenge that even her cunning skills may not be able to overcome. Her fiancé, Gideon Bates, is on the brink of being drafted into the Great War, leaving Elizabeth consumed with worry and anxiety. While she struggles to cope with her fears, Gideon throws himself into his work, diligently preparing wills for soldiers who are about to travel on a perilous journey.

 Among the soldiers seeking Gideon’s assistance is Corporal Tom Preston, a co-owner of Preston Shoes, a company dedicated to producing footwear for the army. Tom, who possesses a substantial estate, urgently requires a new will. He has recently married in secret, knowing that his family would never approve of his chosen bride. Tom’s main concern is ensuring that his wife and their unborn child are provided for in the event of his demise.

Tragically, news arrives that Tom has been reported killed in action. Elizabeth and Gideon are devastated by the loss, but their grief is compounded when they discover that the new will has mysteriously vanished. Tom’s bride, who had previously concealed her identity from his family, has now revealed herself, triggering a series of events that could leave her and their child with nothing. The original will, which favors Tom’s brother, would take precedence unless the missing will is found and validated. To make matters worse, the bride’s life is in grave danger, as she has become the target of sinister threats. Elizabeth and Gideon must now navigate a treacherous path, exploring both legal and unconventional means, in their quest to secure Tom’s fortune for his wife and child while simultaneously safeguarding her life.

Elizabeth and Gideon are on a race against time to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of Tom’s will. They delve into the dark underbelly of the war, infiltrating secret societies and shadowy organizations that may hold the key to the missing document. As they dig deeper, they uncover a web of deceit and betrayal that stretches far beyond Tom’s estate.

Along the way, Elizabeth and Gideon encounter a cast of intriguing characters, each with their motives and secrets. From a cunning war profiteer to a mysterious femme fatale, they must navigate a dangerous game of cat and mouse, never knowing who they can trust. As they get closer to the truth, the threats against them escalate, forcing them to rely on their wit and resourcefulness to stay one step ahead.

As Elizabeth and Gideon unravel the mystery, they discover that the disappearance of the will is just the tip of the iceberg. There are larger forces at play, with sinister intentions that could have far-reaching consequences. They must confront their pasts and confront the demons that haunt them, all while trying to protect the innocent lives caught in the crossfire.

With time running out, Elizabeth and Gideon must make difficult choices and take risks they never thought possible. They must confront their vulnerabilities and face the harsh realities of war, all in the name of justice and love. In the end, they will discover that sometimes the greatest battles are fought not on the battlefield, but within the depths of one’s own heart.

In a thrilling climax, Elizabeth and Gideon uncover the truth behind the missing will and expose the dark forces that have been manipulating their lives. They emerge victorious, not only securing Tom’s fortune for his wife and child but also bringing justice to those who sought to exploit the chaos of war for their gain. Through their journey, they learn the true meaning of sacrifice, loyalty, and the power of love to overcome even the most daunting challenges.

About The Author

Victoria Thompson, the acclaimed author of the Gaslight Mystery series and the Counterfeit Lady series, has an impressive literary career that spans multiple genres. Not only is she a USA Today bestselling author, but she has also been recognized for her exceptional talent with prestigious award nominations. Her Gaslight Mysteries have been nominated for the coveted Agatha Award a remarkable six times, showcasing her ability to catch the attention of readers with her intricate plots and compelling characters.

In addition to her mystery novels, Victoria Thompson has made significant contributions to the literary world. She has co-authored the award-winning writing textbook, MANY GENRES/ONE CRAFT, which serves as a valuable resource for aspiring writers. Furthermore, she has showcased her versatility as an author by crafting a short story for the anthology, SHERLOCK HOLMES IN AMERICA. This anthology brings together renowned authors who put their unique spin on the iconic detective, and Victoria Thompson’s contribution undoubtedly adds depth and intrigue to the collection.

Before delving into the world of mystery writing, Victoria Thompson enjoyed immense success as a bestselling author of twenty historical romances. Her ability to transport readers to different eras and immerse them in love stories is a testament to her exceptional storytelling skills. Her passion for historical fiction shines through in her writing, and her extensive knowledge of different periods adds authenticity and richness to her narratives.

Victoria Thompson’s dedication to her craft is evident in her educational background as well. She holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University, where she has also served as a mentor and lecturer for two decades. This demonstrates her commitment to nurturing aspiring writers and sharing her wealth of knowledge and experience with others. With her impressive body of work and her contributions to the literary community, Victoria Thompson has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the world of fiction.