The Lazarus Curse - (Dr. Thomas Silkstone Mystery) by Tessa Harris (Paperback)

About the Book

In 1780s London, Dr. Thomas Silkstone investigates the mysterious disappearance of the sole survivor of an ill-fated scientific expedition, which is linked to a potion that has the power to raise the dead, drawing him into a dark world of vengeance, murder and the trafficking of corpses for profit.

Book Synopsis

In 1780s London, American anatomist Dr. Thomas Silkstone is plunged into a swirling cauldron of sorcery, slavery, and cold-blooded murder . . .

When the sole survivor of an ill-fated scientific expedition to Jamaica goes missing upon his return to London, Dr. Thomas Silkstone--entrusted with cataloging the expedition's New World specimens--feels compelled to investigate. There are rumors of a potion that has the power to raise the dead--and the formula is suspected to be in the private journal that has disappeared along with the young botanist.

As Dr. Silkstone searches for clues to the man's whereabouts, he is drawn deeper into a dark and dangerous world of vengeance, infidelity, murder, and the trafficking of corpses for profit. Without the support of his beloved Lady Lydia Farrell--from whom he has been forcibly separated by law--he must confront the horrors of slavery, as well the very depths of human wickedness. And after a headless corpse is discovered, Dr. Silkstone begins to uncover the sinister motives of those in power who would stop at nothing to possess the Lazarus potion. . .

Praise for The Dead Shall Not Rest

Outstanding. . .well-rounded characters, cleverly concealed evidence and an assured prose style point to a long run for this historical series. --Publishers Weekly (starred review)

Populated with real historical characters and admirably researched, Harris's novel features a complex and engrossing plot. A touch of romance makes this sophomore outing even more enticing. Savvy readers will also recall Hilary Mantel's The Giant, O'Brien. --Library Journal

Praise for The Anatomist's Apprentice

Densely plotted. . . We await--indeed, demand--the sequel. --The New York Times Book Review

An absorbing debut. . . Harris has more than a few tricks up her sleeve and even veteran armchair puzzle solvers are likely to be surprised. --Publishers Weekly

Smart misdirection and time-period appropriate medical details make for a promising start to a new series. A strong choice for readers of Ariana Franklin and Caleb Carr. --Library Journal

About the Author

Tessa Harris is the author of the acclaimed Dr. Thomas Silkstone mysteries, including Secrets in the Stones and The Anatomist's Apprentice. A graduate of Oxford University with a history degree, Tessa has also been a journalist and editor, contributing to many publications such as the Times and the Telegraph. She has also acted as a literary publicist for several well-known authors. Readers can visit her website at tessaharrisauthor.com.