Themes of mesmerism and the blurring of identities inhabit this standalone novel from Andrew Martin, author of the Jim Stringer steam detective series. In London in the 1890s, Kate French is trying to make her way on the stage as part of a variety act. Unluckily for Kate, her partner Joseph Draper is a jealous man who doesn’t take kindly to Kate becoming the star turn.

Fast forward to the 1980s and a journalist Jean is researching a one-woman play about Kate. Jean’s partner, Coates, is hiding his violent past and professional disgrace from everyone, and the pressure of deceit is making an already unstable man even more fragile. This clever thriller is dark in places, wickedly funny in others, and leaves a lasting impression. You can read our review here.