The Spirit Guide

“Wonderful. A supremely atmospheric historical mystery, both haunting and relentlessly entertaining.”
—Tom Mead, author of Death and the Conjuror

“From a murder far too close to home at the beloved Variety Palace, through dodgy Victorian séances to an even dodgier spiritualist cult in the wilds of Suffolk, Minnie and Albert blaze brighter than ever in this vividly conjured mystery with properly scary ghost story vibes. Another cracking page-turner from Bridget Walsh and this series. My favourite detective double-act.”
—Emma Styles, author of No Country for Girls

“An excellent addition to the Variety Palace novels with memorable characters and a plot that explores the exploitation of people’s grief. Minnie is a wonderful protagonist who brings strength and humour to even the darkest moments.”
—Sheila O’Flanagan, author of What Eden Did Next

“It was an absolute delight to catch up with Minnie and Albert again. They’re the best double act out there and in The Spirit Guide they’re joined by a host of dubious conmen, mediums, ghosts, gullible heiresses and killers. What’s not to like? Can’t wait for the next one, and the one after that and the one after that!”
—Trevor Wood, author of The Inside Man

“I’d recommend this one… Strong characters, a look at the underbelly of Victorian London and a twisting plot with some genuine peril.”
—In Search of the Classic Mystery Novel

“An addictive mix of mysticism, murder and music hall.”
—Daily Mail

“Seedy Victorian London takes a turn for the grimly gothic… Opening in a tea room but leading to a contemporary understanding of trauma, this is true crime in a petticoat.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“Private investigators Minnie Ward and Albert Easterbrook take on a pair of cases while wrestling with their romantic feelings for each other… Walsh nimbly balances both mysteries with the developing relationship between Minnie and Albert.”
—Publishers Weekly