The Mermaid and Mrs. Hancock

Set in 1780s London, "The Mermaid and Mrs. Hancock" follows prosperous merchant Jonah Hancock, whose life takes a dramatic turn when he receives a dead mermaid, sparking widespread curiosity across the city. As he navigates the shifting societal landscape—from the gritty docks to high-society drawing rooms—he encounters Angelica Neal, a captivating courtesan who challenges his perceptions of desire and value. This atmospheric debut by Imogen Hermes Gowar weaves together themes of obsession and wonder, offering a richly layered story that captivates the imagination.