Books like those by Stacey Halls?

[fellupthestairs]

Does anyone have any recommendations?

I'm usually a firm non-fiction reader but a couple of years ago something drew me into Stacey Halls’ books and now I’ve read all four of them plus the short story in an anthology.
Her next book isn’t out until April next year.

I think my favourite of hers was The Foundling. So something of that time period (mid-18th century) and possibly also set in London or a city would be ideal. Or 19th century.
I’m not into romance novels at all. More sort of social observations of the time period, how hard things were if you didn’t have money, that sort of thing.

Karen Swann the The Wild Isle series was great and I love Stacey Hall's books. The Names, The Women and The Keeper of Secrets are others that i have enjoyed recently

Golden Hill by Francis Spufford is set in New York in the mid 18th century and I highly recommend it. I also enjoyed Black Drop by Leonora Nattress which is set in the late 18th century.

The Secrets of Hartwood Hall by Katie Lumsden

Laura Purcell
Laura Shepherd Robinson
Andrew Taylor
Ambrose Parry

Another vote for Golden Hill.

Maybe The Crimson Petal and the White?

I've only read The Familiars by Stacey Halls, which I did enjoy.

I think The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton would meet your brief. Set in 17th Century Amsterdam, it's the story of an 18 year old girl who comes from the country to marry a wealthy merchant trader. Lots of secrets and lies and a touch of magical realism.

Good call with The Miniaturist! I enjoyed that

Agree Laura Shepherd Robinson - great reads!

The Lost Apothecary by somebody Penner is very good, as her her other books. Not quite the same era, but The Dictionary of Lost Words is fantastic.

I’m so glad I asked here! Thanks everyone! That’s a fantastic load of books to add to my to-be-read list!

You might like The Doll Factory by Elizabeth Macneal or The Shape of Darkness by Laura Purcell.

Just remembered Emma Donoghue Slammerkin is also great!