Illustrated Dodge a Twist and a Tobacconist (The Alexander Legacy #1)

This series melds some better and lesser-known characters of classic literary fiction: A literary dream team of crime fighters including nods to Dickens, Stevenson, Alcott, Austen, Kipling, Doyle, and other writers across the pond, with plenty of homages to great books sprinkled throughout. Prowl the foggy London streets on the track of a ruthless enslaver of souls. Travel the Thames in a Giant Catfish. Soar over London in a stealth glider, and witness true redemptions and restorations no one ever imagined.

"I'm sorry, but my time is very short just now. I have tried for months to locate you, and have only just today succeeded. The other members of the group I propose to create are en route or are already here. Everyone else has been made aware of my plan. I truly wish to explain things more clearly to you, and then if you agree, to invite you to attend our first meeting as a formal association tomorrow. Can I count on you to come, please, and will you hear my plan?" the woman pleaded. "This is the most important thing I've ever done, and I pray God I have chosen the right people. I also pray that the right people will choose to pledge their help."

If ever a woman who had no reason to be desperate still managed to communicate desperation, it was this woman.

"Very well," I nodded. "But the hotel is not so far from here and the weather has been very pleasant. I shall walk. What time do you desire me to appear?"

"No, no, you cannot walk about London so late. Please. This mail coach will arrive at ten o'clock. Do not be frightened by it, please. It is perfectly safe."

"Frightened by a mail coach?" I was once again hesitant. "Why would I be -- ?"