"[This] absolute gem of a novel sparkles with creativity."--Booklist starred review
***
Peter Driscoll, an underground investigator to the wealthy, has never met anyone like Lily Temple. The beautiful silent-film actress spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera, but beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit--and a murky past.
Peter has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire, which Lily wears beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and hopefully unravel the mystery of her story--and the sapphire--Peter employs Lily's help on a case, which leads to a useful partnership. But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it is that he needs her even more than she needs him.
Award-winning author Joanna Davidson Politano whisks you away to Edwardian England in 1903 for a whimsical and layered tale that treads the crooked line between real and make-believe.
***
"This is a fascinating look at silent film, the power of story, and God's pursuit of lost children."--
Library Journal
"Rich with biblical allusions, the layered plot accrues tension and texture by alternating perspectives between Lily and Peter as the mystery intensifies. Readers will be kept guessing through the many twists and turns."--
Publishers Weekly
"This rollicking romantic mystery novel sweeps readers through the streets of London in the early 1900s. Using a real setting as inspiration for this fanciful novel gives the plot a unique depth and intrigue."--
The Historical Novels Review 
