Winter of Despair - (Gaslight Mystery) by Cora Harrison

About the Book

November, 1853. Charles Dickens and Wilkie Collins are summoned to examine a body found in an attic studio, surrounded by a lacerated painting titled A Winter of Despair. Wilkie recognizes the victim as a friend of his brother Charley. What secrets lie among the close-knit group of Pre-Raphaelite painters who were the victim's friends?

Book Synopsis

Wilkie Collins must prove his brother is innocent of murder in the second of the compelling new Gaslight mystery series.

November, 1853. Inspector Field has summoned his friends Charles Dickens and Wilkie Collins to examine a body found in an attic studio, its throat cut. Around the body lie the lacerated fragments of canvas of a painting titled A Winter of Despair.

On closer examination, Wilkie realizes he recognizes the victim, for he had been due to dine with him that very evening. The dead man is Edwin Milton-Hayes, one of Wilkie's brother Charley's artist friends. But what is the significance of the strange series of faceless paintings Milton-Hayes had been worked on when he died? And why is Charley acting so strangely?

With his own brother under suspicion of murder, Wilkie Collins and Charles Dickens set out to uncover the truth. What secrets lie among the close-knit group of Pre-Raphaelite painters who were the dead man's friends? And who is the killer in their midst?

Review Quotes

"An admirable heroine, vivid characters, and an inventive plot, combined with intriguing insights ... make for a captivating read"-- "Booklist on Death of a Novice"

"Engaging... Another strong entry in a series tailor-made for the Masterpiece crowd"-- "Booklist"

"Engrossing ... Reverend Mother will appeal to admirers of Ellis Peters's 'Brother Cadfael' mysteries"-- "Library Journal Starred Review of Death of a Novice"

"Fascinating historical details ... a clever plot and an intriguing cast"-- "Booklist on Murder at the Queen's Old Castle"

"Harrison is at the top of her game ... The fair-play puzzle is among her finest"-- "Publishers Weekly Starred Review of Murder at the Queen's Old Castle"

"Highly readable ... Perfect for fans of authors who focus on a vivid locale such as Andrea Camilleri or Ann Cleeves"-- "Library Journal on Murder at the Queen's Old Castle"

"Stellar... Superior plotting and characterization lift this entry. Fans of Harrison's Burren mysteries will be pleased"-- "Publishers Weekly Starred Review"