Them without pain

Set in 1800s Leeds, England, Nickson's Simon Westow series (Scream of Sins, 2024) is a real find for historical-mystery fans. Simon is a respected and proficient "thief-taker"; he's hired, usually by a wealthy citizen, to retrieve stolen articles. His latest case sees him hired by Sir Robert Foley to retrieve four silver cups crafted by Arthur Mangey, who was as famous for being hanged for treason as he was for his silversmithing. Foley claims the cups were stolen by his valet, but as Simon tries to find the man, he realizes he's involved in a case that may just defeat even his considerable skills. Simon's former apprentice, Jane, now retired, agrees to help, even though Simon's new helper, Sally, is already nearly as good--and as ruthless--as Jane at tracking and intimidating suspects, protecting Simon, and unearthing clues. Brimming with Nickson's trademark period details, memorable characters, and realistic portrayal of life in nineteenth-century England--but also filled with frightening twists, bloody violence, suspense, and danger--this may just be Nickson's best Simon Westow book yet.