The Frost Fair: The thrilling historical whodunnit

Edward Marston

Mar 2011 · Restoration Book 4 · Allison & Busby

About this ebook

Christmas, 1669. In the grip of the coldest winter for years, the River Thames is frozen from bank to bank and London celebrates with a traditional frost fair held on its broad back. Revellers come from far and wide to enjoy the spectacle: an ox is roasted, booths set up and entertainers employed to amuse the crowds enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
Among the throng is ambitious young architect Christopher Redmayne, escorting the daughter of one of his clients with whom he hopes to further a romantic attachment. By chance they meet Christopher's good friend, Constable Jonathan Bale. When a child slips on thin ice the pair make a chilling discovery of a frozen naked corpse embedded in the ice.

Ratings and reviews

Continuing the story of Christopher Redmayne (this is actually the book that comes prior to the Parliment House I read earlier this year), this book delves into some family dynamics as we are introduced to his pleasure seeking brother who is accused of murdering a fencing master. London politics are slightly explored with discussions on the right of the King, the role and rights of forgieners, however Marston masterfully slips small details into the story without making them feel preachy or overbearing. Instead he is able to weave comments on politics, social castes, and historical details without drowning the story in details that so often drag and slow a story. The continuing saga of Christohper's love for Susan is interesting as we learn the nuances of love and courtship in the late 1600's. All told I found this book to be an easy read, something that many historical dramas cannot claim, enjoyable and engaging. Edward Marston manages to make a historical dramatic mystery that is a wonder to read, and makes you want to continue to the next book wondering if Christopher will ever manage to prove himself to Susan's family and spend a happy life with her as his wife. I highly recommend this entire series, having read the first two books available in America I can say this is one of the most enjoyable series I have read.

About the author

Edward Marston has written well over a hundred books, including some non-fiction. He is best known for his hugely successful Railway Detective series and he also writes the Bow Street Rivals series featuring twin detectives set during the Regency; the Home Front Detective novels set during the First World War; and the Ocean Liner mysteries.