The Betrayal of Thomas True
Ratings4
Average rating4.3
It is the year 1710, and Thomas True has arrived on old London Bridge with a dangerous secret. One night, lost amongst the squalor of London's hidden back streets, he finds himself drawn into the outrageous underworld of the molly houses. Meanwhile, carpenter Gabriel Griffin struggles to hide his double life as Lotty, the molly's silent guard. When the queen of all 'he-harlots', Mother Clap, confides in him about a deadly threat, he realises his friends are facing imminent execution. To the horror of all mollies, there is a rat amongst them, betraying their secrets to a pair of murderous Justices, hell-bent on punishing sinners with the noose. Can Gabriel unmask the traitor before it's too late? Can he save hapless Thomas from peril, and their own impossible love? Set amidst the hidden world of Georgian London's 'gay' scene, The Betrayal of Thomas True is a brutal and devastating thriller, where love must overcome evil, and the only true sin is betrayal...
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The Betrayal of Thomas True by A.J. West is a heartbreaking Georgian tale set in the underworld of the molly houses. It had my heart from the outset, and I was completely broken by the end pages.
This is West's second book, and although both books are equally fabulous, I think The Betrayal of Thomas West is my favourite. West's storytelling is immersive, painting the scene of London's hidden gay community and the deadly consequences they face if caught. The characters are flamboyant and feisty, taking great risks at the double life they are leading.
The Betrayal of Thomas True is a captivating read. It is a blend of genres; historical fiction mixed with a thriller vibe as you try to discover who amongst the mollies is a rat. There are some shocking scenes, added twists and an ending that I did not see coming. I loved the setting and the rich portrayal of characters. West's writing flows from the pages seamlessly and I appreciate all the hours of research that went into writing a book of this calibre. It is an emotive read portraying hope, love, betrayal and treachery.
To put it simply, this book is a steal of a read and as fabulous as its sprayed edges
