London: Victor Gollancz, Ltd., (1995) dj. Hardcover first edition - The author's first mystery novel set in 1676 in Restoration London, one which recreates the London of Pepys and Dryden and interweaves fact and fiction as it features spy-turned-playwright Aphra Behn. "King Charles is on his rocky throne, surrounded by a full complement of spies, lackeys, and mistresses. . .. Nell Gwyn, a longtime favorite, is also still on the scene when a poet-playwright friend, Aphra Behn, enlists her help in the tutelage of would-be actress Elizabeth Decker, mistress of the Earl of Rochester, for the leading part in her newest playa move Aphra hopes will improve her near-penniless state." 288 pp. ISBN: 0-575-061324.