The Betrayal of Thomas True

  • Historical; Thriller

  • June 2024

    • Czech Republic: Euromedia

    • Italy: Neri Pozza

    • World English Language: Orenda Books

It is the year 1710, and Thomas True has arrived on old London Bridge with a dangerous secret. One night, lost amongst the squalor of London's hidden back streets, he finds himself drawn into the outrageous underworld of the molly houses.

Meanwhile, carpenter Gabriel Griffin struggles to hide his double life as Lotty, the molly's silent guard. When the queen of all 'he-harlots', Mother Clap, confides in him about a deadly threat, he realises his friends are facing imminent execution.

To the horror of all mollies, there is a rat amongst them, betraying their secrets to a pair of murderous Justices, hell-bent on punishing sinners with the noose.

Can Gabriel unmask the traitor before it's too late? Can he save hapless Thomas from peril, and their own impossible love?

Set amidst the hidden world of Georgian London's 'gay' scene, The Betrayal of Thomas True is a brutal and devastating thriller, where love must overcome evil, and the only true sin is betrayal…

Other books by A. J. West

Heartbreaking, beautiful, lyrical. I was captivated from the start … you won’t want to put it down.
— Catriona Ward

Selected Praise

Really very, very good.
— Stephen Fry
Betrayal of Thomas True is stunning and powerful - an atmospheric thriller that’s both heartfelt and meticulously researched.
— Janice Hallett