Rivals in the City

The Agency: Rivals in the City plunges young adult readers into the thrilling world of Victorian London, following the independent and skilled detective Mary Quinn. This novel masterfully blends action, mystery, and romance as Mary tackles a complex case involving a dying fraudster, his criminal wife, and a mysterious Chinese prizefighter. Parents will appreciate the strong female protagonist who grapples with her professional duties, personal feelings for her love interest, James, and the societal expectations of her time. The book explores themes of justice, loyalty, self-identity, and the courage to forge one's own path, all within an engaging historical setting. It's suitable for ages 12-18, offering a compelling narrative that encourages critical thinking about historical contexts and personal agency.

In a tale steeped in action, romance, and the gaslit intrigue of Victorian London, Mary Quinn’s detective skills are pitted against a cunning and desperate opponent. Mary Quinn has a lot on her mind. James Easton, her longtime love interest, wants to marry her; but despite her feelings, independent-minded Mary hesitates. Meanwhile, the Agency has asked Mary to take on a dangerous case: convicted fraudster Henry Thorold is dying in prison, and Mary must watch for the return of his estranged wife, an accomplished criminal herself who has a potentially deadly grudge against James. Finally, a Chinese prizefighter has arrived in town, and Mary can’t shake a feeling that he is somehow familiar. With the stakes higher than ever, can Mary balance family secrets, conflicting loyalties, and professional expertise to bring a criminal to justice and find her own happiness?