The Art of a Lie: A Novel

Why We Recommend It

For lovers of historical suspense, The Art of a Lie is an unmissable intellectual feast. From Laura Shepherd-Robinson, the author of the acclaimed The Square of Sevens, this new work transports readers to 18th-century England, weaving an intricate web of love, betrayal, and intrigue with vivid prose.

Widowed Hannah Cole, reeling from her husband’s suspicious death, struggles to keep her failing confectionary shop afloat—battling hostile suppliers, skeptical authorities, and even friends with hidden agendas. When the enigmatic William Devereux enters her life, bringing with him the novel idea of "iced cream," he ignites not just hope for her business, but a dangerous game of wits. Hounded by the famed author-magistrate Henry Fielding, Hannah must navigate a labyrinth of deception where every step could be her undoing.

Across 304 pages, historical richness and suspenseful tension merge seamlessly. Shepherd-Robinson’s meticulous research brings 18th-century England to life, while her clever plotting ensures each twist feels both surprising and inevitable. As Ruth Ware, New York Times bestselling author, puts it, it’s "a twisty confection as subtle and delicious as one of Hannah's iced creams"—perfect for readers who crave uncovering truths in historical shadows and savoring the thrill of human intrigue.