From the New York Times bestselling author of The Witch's Daughter comes the story of Gretel, all grown up and investigating a series of mysterious disappearances off the coast of Bavaria.

Gretel—yes, that Gretel—is now all grown up and working as a private investigator in 18th century Bavaria. Her professional interest is piqued when she begins to hear whispers of of mysterious goings-on off the coast of Schleswig-Holstein: sailors are disappearing, and there are rumors of mermaids and sea creatures and all manner of slippery, sea-based happenings. Ordinarily, Gretel’s interest in sea-life does not extend beyond that which is edible, doused in butter and garlic, and already on the plate before her. However, funds are low, and the Captain of the ship Arabella makes a tempting offer of good pay and a free cruise in return for her detective services. With a splendid new wig packed, Hans as her bodyguard on the journey north, and the promise of two weeks of fine dining and erudite company whilst sailing around the picturesque Friesian islands, what could possibly go wrong?

Review

“Gretel is a fun, outspoken, fashionably dressed and coiffed detective, and the mystery can be pieced together by a careful reader. Fans of the Detective Gretel mystery series will be pleased with this installment.”
- Historical Novels Review

“The no-nonsense heroine has grown quite the sarcastic tongue since the days of the breadcrumb trail.”
- Kirkus Reviews

“Brackston does a good job of highlighting the plight of magical, misfit creatures. Readers seeking a diversion in the Grimms’ fairly tale world should have fun.”
- Publishers Weekly

“Gretel is tart and sarcastic, and these books are so much fun to read.”
- KSL.com

About the Author

P.J. Brackston is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Witch's Daughter; The Winter Witch; and Nutters. She has an MA in Creative Writing from Lancaster University and is a Visiting Lecturer for the University of Wales, Newport. Brackston lives in Wales with her partner, Simon, and their two children.