The Thief and the Labyrinth

Represented by:
Sophie Gorell Barnes

Category:
historical mystery

Publisher:
Severn House (Canongate)

Publication date:
September 3rd 2026

Foreign rights controlled by:
MBA

London, 1882. American agents Henry and Johanna McClellan need the help of the World’s End Bureau to find Bruno Schmidt, a cunning lecturer who cajoled a young American woman called Ava into eloping to Europe.

Now Ava’s father wants her back. Though the McClellans have followed the missing pair’s trail to London, they can’t find their way around the busy city without help. PI duo Lily and Felix accept the case and soon discover a promising clue regarding Bruno and Ava’s whereabouts.

But the more Lily and Felix investigate, the more complicated and implausible this seemingly straightforward case becomes. Their suspicion quickly falls on their clients, who might not be as honest as they first seemed to be .

Reviews

"An interesting and absorbing historical mystery that kept me engaged from beginning to end." (5★)
"I loved the way that the clues gradually come together with plenty of plot twists and turns as well as unexpected developments." (5★)
"The archaeological theme adds another layer of interest… the climax is exciting and plausible. In all, a very enjoyable read – intriguing and compelling." (5★)
"You won't be sorry you picked this book up!… A great standalone book (although now I just have to go back and read the rest!)" (Lisa, 5★)
"The story starts at a gallop." (Lisa, 5★)
"Many twists and turns and surprises." (4★)
"Complete with gas lamps and river mists and Gothic thrills… a great standalone for lovers of the paranormal." (5★)
"Excellently written historical mystery." (Veronika Jordan, 5★)
"I really hope there is a book 7 as I'd love to read more about Lily and Felix." (Veronika Jordan, 5★)
"Great atmospheric mystery… really paints a picture of the Victorian era, not only the aristocracy but the deprived areas too." (A. Baker, 5★)
"All the more compulsive to keep turning the pages till the end." (A. Baker, 5★)
"When myths and legends meet facts, trouble comes next… A Victorian detective novel with an intriguing twist. Very readable." (5★)
"Lily and Felix are great characters… the descriptive writing was a joy, I loved it. A good mystery and a cracking read." (5★)
"I love the relationship that was created between Lily and Felix, very believable and very in tune with the time… If you love Greek mythology you will enjoy this book."
"I love this series and the latest instalment didn't disappoint." (5★)
"A very engaging read with twists along the way." (5★)