Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

A thoroughly enjoyable romp through the darker side of London’s history. As someone who loves to discover the unexpected, this book is backed with interesting information about places and people that you thought you knew…but maybe didn’t. For example, the author explains how Soho started out as a favourite hunting ground for Henry VIII. The name came from an old hunting call “Sophie the Hare is Found.”
The book is divided into sections, each dealing with a different aspect of low life in London. The first chapter gives us an insight into the growth of London, from a swampy area by a river, to the busy metropolis it is today. For example, we learn that in 12th century, there was an area of marshy land bordering the south bank of the Thames which became known for its lively inns and brothels. King Henry II gave the rights to the profits from these establishments to the Bishop of Winchester. And hence, London’s first red light district was established, with the prostitutes commonly known as Winchester Geese.
Another interesting titbit was that in the 12th century, the notorious area known as St Giles, started out as a hospital (named for St Giles the patron saint of cripples) which was established by Queen Matilda. And later, in the 17th century the neighbouring area, Seven Dials, was built. This started out as a desirable address for the prosperous, and only later became an area associated with grinding poverty and terrible deprivation.
But if medieval history isn’t your thing, never fear. The author sweeps across the centuries, including relatively recent scandals such as the Profumo affair and the Jeremy Thorpe scandal. There is something for anyone here that is interested in the history of London or indeed the foibles of human nature. I thoroughly enjoyed this read, and devoured it over a few evenings.

NetGalley, Pippa Elliott

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

I’m a sucker for true crime and social history. Here’s the perfect combination in which Mike Hutton explores all aspects of crime in London over some 1500 years. It’s very readable, starting with a brief overview of the districts, which give the reader who’s unfamiliar with the city a feel for the different areas.
Crimes are considered over some twenty plus chapters and there’s a real taster for just about everything imaginable. Hangings, gang crime, gin palaces, drugs, vice, murder, homosexuality, gambling and politics. There’s an interesting selection of illustrations of people, places and significant events and a bibliography for further reading. Very easy to read, this gives an informed and vibrant insight into a city where, scratch the surface, and the glitzy veneer soon rubs away. Really enjoyed this.

NetGalley, Anita Wallas

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

This was such an interesting read, I have always been interested in true crime and London especially has always fascinated me ever since I heard of Jack the Ripper I have been obsessed. I loved that this book included some aspects of criminal activity and some criminals that I have never heard of, as well as some that I have. Well researched and very easy to read

NetGalley, Kirsty Montgomery

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

I found this book to be a riveting journey through the shadowy corners of London’s complex history, shedding light on the social conditions, figures, and events that have shaped the crime-ridden side of London’s past. It is very well researched, and each chapter is nicely sectioned for instance, hangings, prostitutes, highwaymen etc. The author brings to life not just the criminals, but the social and political forces that made them. His writing is engaging, accessible, and at times downright entertaining. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the sordid yet fascinating history of London, where crime and vice have left an indelible mark.

NetGalley, Saffron Melnyk

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Wow this is first time I've read this authors book and I'm now hooked.
So well written and feel like really there at time crime happened.
I'm from south London and even I didn't know about many aspects of this book.
Currently looking for my next book of Mike Hutton as I'm hooked.

NetGalley, Karen Bull