Karen Odden (Down a Dark River) brings the hidden criminal side of Victorian London brilliantly to life in this enthralling historical mystery. Perfect for fans of Sherry Thomas or Anne Perry, An Artful Dodge tells the story of 20-year-old Kit Jimeson, one of the most talented thieves in a women-only criminal network. Keeping both shopkeepers and patricians on their toes, Kit is determined to steal enough to keep herself and her 14-year-old sister, Sarah, safe and fed. Maybe someday she'll even save up enough money to be able to quit her criminal ways, since, as Kit says, "The Society for the Suppression of Vice would have you believe crime doesn't pay. It does, of course."
However, when a beautiful but vicious woman named Maggie, who was transported to Australia 20 years ago, returns to claim her role as leader of the thieving syndicate, everything starts to change for Kit. Maggie wants vengeance on everyone involved in her arrest, and unfortunately for Kit, her talent catches Maggie's eye. Kit becomes entangled in a huge heist of Maggie's devising--one that could put Kit and even Sarah in the noose if she fails.
Rapidly plotted and full of engaging characters, An Artful Dodge is historical fiction at its best. The complicated schemes within schemes that Kit devises are reminiscent of the Ocean's Eleven films. Throw in a bawdy Southwark crowd, sharp-eyed constables, and supercilious merchants, and An Artful Dodge delivers Victorian London right to readers' laps. --Jessica Howard, former bookseller, freelance book reviewer