A very promising beginning to a new series set in Regency London. The rise of science...the lure of alchemy...ghastly murder in a church...an Earl a suspect! From the backstreets of the stews to club of the aristocracy the reader is lured into an unexpected conspiracy and danger. For readers who like Amanda Quick or the Sarah Tolerance series by Madeleine Robins (Point of Honor) which feature strong female characters surviving in a world where females were not supposed to be strong and independent. Looking forward to the next book!