She comes bounding into London circa 1898 spouting a pious religious agenda that includes comparing human beings to God Himself. She is hailed by some, intrigued by others, and overall labeled a blasphemer. Her name is Sofia Delacruz, and her protection for this visit to London is none other than Thomas Pitt and his Special Branch team.

THE ANGEL COURT AFFAIR marks the 30th historical mystery in the Charlotte and Thomas Pitt series. As always, Anne Perry is proving why she is one of the best there ever has been in this genre. Pitt has had many previous challenges that have driven through social issues and between the classes in Victorian London. However, he may be facing his most daunting task yet when the woman he is protecting --- while at the same time upholding the good name and honor of the British government ---- is kidnapped right from under his very nose.

"THE ANGEL COURT AFFAIR moves in so many different directions that readers’ heads will be spinning... Be prepared for another well-deserved vacation to Victorian London with Anne Perry as the most cunning tour guide you will ever need to see the many sights and what lies beneath them."

Or was she? Many would have reason to do Sofia harm, perhaps even to kill her. There are others who see her disappearance as a mere publicity ploy to mark herself as a martyr in her traveling religious crusade that is spreading her controversial viewpoints across Europe. Whatever the case may be, there is no denying that Pitt and the rest of Special Branch are facing off against an evil force that was quick to brutally murder two of Sofia's companions at the sight of her alleged abduction.

To begin with, Pitt is not at all pleased that the resources of his Special Branch unit are being utilized to protect the British expatriate who is being referred to as the “Spanish Saint.” He will be the first to remind anyone that Special Branch was initially created to deal with the “Irish problem.” But now along comes the controversial Sofia Delacruz, and all bets are off. Though the right move to make politically, the end results are disastrous for them.

There are many players in the game, including wealthy banker Barton Hall, Sofia's cousin with whom she had a questionable business deal involving property in Canada, and former collegiate cricket champion and now influential businessman Dalton Teague, who allegedly gives his full support to Pitt but at a price that he and the Special Branch may not be willing to pay. Beyond that is Sofia's husband from Toledo, Spain, Nazario Delacruz, who may be hiding past indiscretions involving his wife that could be grounds for her abduction and inevitable ransom demands. 

THE ANGEL COURT AFFAIR moves in so many different directions that readers’ heads will be spinning, and the mysterious abduction may not be the worst thing that happens to the characters. Thomas Pitt is always a solid and morally grounded character kept firmly in check by his extremely wise spouse, Charlotte, and the guidance of his mentor and former boss, Victor Narraway. Be prepared for another well-deserved vacation to Victorian London with Anne Perry as the most cunning tour guide you will ever need to see the many sights and what lies beneath them.