The Art of a Lie by Laura Shepherd-Robinson
The Art of a Lie is Laura Shepherd-Robinson’s historical thriller set in 1749 London. After her husband is murdered, confectioner Hannah Cole discovers a hidden fortune and must investigate his secret life as magistrate Henry Fielding suspects the money was illicitly obtained.
At a glance
- A Georgian London murder mystery centred on Hannah Cole and the secrets left by her late husband.
- The plot follows a hidden fortune, suspicion of illicit gains and an investigation into a concealed past.
- Listed as a 320-page English-language Main Market edition.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- Customer feedback highlights the twists, historical detail and character development, which suit readers looking for more than a straightforward murder plot.
- The listing gives useful edition details, including page count, language and physical dimensions.
Technical specifications
10 specifications| Publisher | Mantle |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 10 July 2025 |
| Edition | Main Market |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 320 pages |
| Reading age | 18 years and up |
| ISBN-10 | 1529053722 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-13 | 978-1529053722 |
| Dimensions | 16.3 x 3 x 24.2 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 510 g |
What to know before buying
- The listing describes Hannah's husband's murder as brutal and places the story in 1749 London. It does not specify a separate content rating beyond the listed reading age.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers of historical crime and thrillers set in Georgian London.
- Readers who enjoy twist-led plots, character-focused storytelling and period detail.
- Fans of Laura Shepherd-Robinson seeking a standalone historical mystery.
Less suited to
- Readers looking for a contemporary setting or non-fiction history.
- Readers who prefer light subject matter, as the premise includes murder, deceit and suspected illicit money.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
62% 62% - 4 stars
29% 29% - 3 stars
7% 7% - 2 stars
1% 1% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback highlights an engaging, twist-filled plot, historical detail about 18th-century London, writing style and character development. Customers also describe the alternating first-person chapters and the believable relationship between Hannah and William. These reported strengths are relevant for readers choosing a period thriller with both mystery and character focus. The ratings distribution is predominantly five- and four-star, though that aggregate alone cannot explain individual readers' experiences.
Positive themes
- Customers describe the plot as engaging and enjoyable, with twists and turns.
- Feedback praises the historical detail, writing style and character development.
Frequently asked questions
What is The Art of a Lie about?
Set in 1749 London, the story follows Hannah Cole after her husband is murdered and she discovers a hidden fortune. She must investigate his past while magistrate Henry Fielding questions the money's origins.
How long is this edition?
The listing gives a print length of 320 pages.
What language and edition are listed?
The listed edition is Main Market and the language is English.
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