Ratcatcher

A gripping historical thriller introducing Bow Street Runner Matthew Hawkwood – a sexy, dangerous and fascinating hero who hunts down thieves, spies and murderers in the crime-ridden streets of Regency London. Hunting down highwaymen was not the usual preserve of a Bow Street Runner. As the most resourceful of this elite band of investigators, Matthew Hawkwood was surprised to be assigned the case – even if it did involve the murder and mutilation of a naval courier. From the squalor of St Giles Rookery, London's notorious den of thieves and cutthroats, to the brightly lit salons of the aristocracy and the heart of the British government, Hawkwood relentlessly pursues his quarry. As the case unfolds and another body is discovered on the banks of the Thames, the true agenda begins to emerge. And only Hawkwood can stop a dastardly plot that will end British mastery of the seas forever.

‘Irresistible… rambunctious entertainment.’Observer ‘Rumbustious…a darkly attractive hero, terrific period atmosphere and action.’ The Times ‘Atmospheric and well researched… try it.’ Daily Mirror ‘“Ratcatcher” has everything: duels and derring-do, London highlife and lowlife, French lechery and treachery – all contained in a fast-moving, cleverly constructed plot with an immaculately detailed historical background. Add a hero who is ruthless, mysterious and sexy, and it's a safe bet that “Ratcatcher” marks the start of a series that will run and run…and run!’ Reginald Hill ‘“Ratcatcher” is a richly enjoyable and impressively researched novel – also very gripping. James McGee is clearly a rising star in the historical galaxy and I look forward to Hawkwood’s return.’ Andrew Taylor, author of ‘The American Boy’

James McGee is the pseudonym for Glen Moy, who is manager of Ottakar’s in Tenterden. ‘Ratcatcher’ is the first in a series of books to feature Matthew Hawkwood.