The Ruby Red Room

London, 1907.
Contrary to the wishes of her noble and influential family, young aristocrat Victoria lives in a separate apartment, accompanied only by her deceased father's servant, Hopkins. Their life is not very prosperous, so Victoria earns extra money working as a photographer and selling photographs to newspapers, while Hopkins, hiding behind a pseudonym, earns additional income writing an advice column for housewives in a newspaper...

When ominous hints about an ancient and dark family secret are publicly voiced during a court ball, Victoria quarrels with Sir Francis, who is later found murdered. Victoria is also suspected of being involved in the murder, so with Hopkins' help, she begins her own investigation. Victoria's bravery is admired by her charming suitor, Lord Randolph, but when Victoria finds herself in danger, someone unexpected comes to her aid...

Pauline Peters (born 1966) is a German writer and journalist. She has always been fascinated by British lifestyle and traditions, English estates and parks, which is why she chose this environment as the backdrop for the intriguing and witty plot twists in her debut novel.

Translated from German by Iveta Galēja.