Petty Treason

Petty Treason (2004) Madeleine E. Robins

Sarah Tolerance is a fallen woman. Although she lives with her aunt (another Fallen) in her brothel, she has not chosen to become a prostitute, but as society will not forgive her, so she has chosen an unconventional life as an Agent of Inquiry.

She does well enough for herself, but nothing is certain in London during the Regency, and with continued war with France, so she takes most of the cases that come her way. Including, in this case, the murder of a French chevalier, found dead in his bedroom, his head beaten to a pulp.

This is an instance where I don’t care about this historical accuracy too much (and is one of the reasons, I’m sure, why Steampunk has become so popular. It’s a fascinating time, but women were very very restricted.

Though some things never change.

A young woman in sheer silk and deep decollete was arguing passionately upon the subject of girls’ education with a man whose eyes did not once rise above her collarbone.

She was admitted to the house by a very young man, not much more than a boy, whose attempt at dignity was largely overmastered by the high spirits of his age.

This is an interesting mystery, that highlights the position of women for much of history–chattel to be treated as their fathers, brothers, and husbands decide.

I was sorry there were only two Sarah Tolerance books published, but I just looked and a new book was published in 2011/2012. The joys and wonders of the modern age of publishing and eBooks.
Rating: 8/10

Published by Tor

 
 
 

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