From the author of The Good Wife of Bath comes this brilliant recreation of the vibrant optimistic but politically treacherous world of Londons Restoration theatre where we are introduced to the remarkable playwright Aphra Behn now a feminist icon but then an anomaly who gravitated to the stage - a place where artifice and disguise are second nature and accommodates those who do not fit in. Karen Brooks demonstrates her considerable talent for capturing the historical moment in this richly told immersive read that will acquaint readers with a woman whose name we should all know. Pip Williams author of The Bookbinder of Jericho Its 1679 and into the tumult politics and colour of Restoration London and its lively theatre scene comes the fierce and opinionated Tribulation Johnson. Cast out from her family as ungodly and unworthy Tribulation is determined to forge her own remarkable path. Arriving in London Tribulation is astonished to discover that the widowed cousin shes been sent to live with is none other than the most infamous woman in London: the former spy and traitors mistress the playwright and polemical poetess Aphra Behn. Tribulation cannot believe her good fortune as she is thrust into city life and the heady mercurial milieu of the theatre. Under Aphras guidance Tribulation is encouraged to write think and speak for herself. But women arent supposed to have a voice or ideas let alone wield a pen and write for a living and there are harsh consequences for those who dont obey societys rules. Together Aphra and Tribulation must not only face vilification and mockery but terrible danger as plots to overturn the monarchy gather pace. When someone from Aphras complicated past reappears the womens loyalties - to King country and ultimately each other - are bitterly tested. Can their relationship survive the burning fires of religious hatred suspicion and deceit? When everyone plays a part and all the worlds a stage who you trust? Praise for Karen Brooks So damn readable and fun ... This is the story of a woman fighting for her rights; it breaches the walls of history. The Australian
