• Age: 12 to 18
• Grade: 7 to 12

In a tale steeped in action, romance, and the gaslit intrigue of Victorian London, Mary Quinn’s detective skills are pitted against a cunning and desperate opponent.

Mary Quinn has a lot on her mind. James Easton, her longtime love interest, wants to marry her; but despite her feelings, independent-minded Mary hesitates. Meanwhile, the Agency has asked Mary to take on a dangerous case: convicted fraudster Henry Thorold is dying in prison, and Mary must watch for the return of his estranged wife, an accomplished criminal herself who has a potentially deadly grudge against James. Finally, a Chinese prizefighter has arrived in town, and Mary can’t shake a feeling that he is somehow familiar. With the stakes higher than ever, can Mary balance family secrets, conflicting loyalties, and professional expertise to bring a criminal to justice and find her own happiness?

Y.S. Lee's profile page

Y. S. Lee was born in Singapore and raised in Vancouver and Toronto. In 2004, she completed her PhD in Victorian literature and culture. Her research, combined with time spent in London, inspired her to begin The Agency series. She lives in Ontario with her family.

Intrigue, romance and the rich details of Victorian life are the focus in the fourth installment of this mystery series featuring a complex female detective. ... As with the previous volumes, the elements of Victorian life are well-drawn, adding rich texture to the storytelling. ... Readers of the series will find this addition deeply satisfying as both a mystery and a historical romance.
—Kirkus Reviews

Lee’s intricate details of Victorian life strike an easy balance with the cozy mystery elements that will keep fans coming for more.
—School Library Journal