Golden Hill: A Novel Of Old New York

"Francis Spufford’s ingenious historical novel, *Golden Hill,* is set in 1746, in the teeming streets of what is now Lower Manhattan – a place of dark alleys and twisted virtue. On a gloomy November evening, a ship sails into the harbor and a stranger disembarks. Rumors swirl that “Mr. Smith” is in town to stir up pre-Revolutionary trouble against the crown. Before his adventures end, Smith will get a tour of the city’s taverns, theaters, debtor’s prison and dueling grounds. Ultimately, the mystery of Smith’s identity will turn out to be as intricate as that of old New York itself."