The Thief and the Labyrinth
by Alys Clare

Private investigators Lily and Felix hunt a rogue thief in this gripping and atmospheric World’s End Bureau historical mystery from critically acclaimed author Alys Clare.
A clear crime hides an untold secret . . .
London, 1882. American agents Henry and Johanna McClellan need the help of the World’s End Bureau to find Bruno Schmidt, a cunning lecturer who cajoled a young American woman called Ava into eloping to Europe.
Now Ava’s father wants her back. Though the McClellans have followed the missing pair’s trail to London, they can’t find their way around the busy city without help. PI duo Lily and Felix accept the case and soon discover a promising clue regarding Bruno and Ava’s whereabouts.
But the more Lily and Felix investigate, the more complicated and implausible this seemingly straightforward case becomes. Their suspicion quickly falls on their clients, who might not be as honest as they first seemed to be . . .
‘Perfect for fans of gothic thrillers and historical mysteries’ (Booklist Starred Review), the World’s End Bureau series is a fantastic read for fans of Anne Perry, Will Thomas and Deanna Raybourn.

Genre: Historical Crime & Mystery

Reviews

“Perfect for fans of gothic thrillers and historical mysteries”

Booklist Starred Review of The Skeleton in the Rose Bed

“A powerful, creepy mystery steeped in history”

Kirkus Reviews on The Skeleton in the Rose Bed

“Heart-palpitating suspense, coupled with a twist-filled story, appealing characters, excellent writing, and vivid descriptions of the French people and countryside, make this a thoroughly enjoyable read”

Booklist on The Stranger in the Asylum

“A page-turning mystery with a well-hidden motive and a surprising number of twists”

Kirkus Reviews on The Stranger in the Asylum

“Clare provides an intriguing look at English life in the nineteenth century, buoyed by an engaging plot and two richly developed leads. Fine reading for fans of English historical mysteries”

Booklist on The Man in the Shadows

“Industrial London and rural Kent provide the Victorian backgrounds for two fascinating stories of love, hate, and madness”

Kirkus Reviews on The Man in the Shadows

“

Anne Perry fans will want to check this out

”

Publishers Weekly on The Outcast Girls

“Mystery and social commentary combine in a heartbreaking and sadly relevant tale”

Kirkus Reviews on The Outcast Girls

“Impressive . . . the solid plotting, colorful Victorian settings, and fun detective duo bode well for future instalments”

Publishers Weekly on The Woman Who Spoke to Spirits

“Engaging, dark, atmospheric, and, at times, quite charming and humorous . . . A fine choice for all mystery collections”

Booklist on The Woman Who Spoke to Spirits

“The author’s writing style, likable characters, and intriguing plot will draw in readers . . . Recommended for historical and traditional mystery lovers”

Library Journal on The Woman Who Spoke to Spirits

“Marvelous”

Kirkus Reviews on The Woman Who Spoke to Spirits

Alys Clare

Alys Clare lives in the English countryside where her novels are set. She went to school in Tonbridge and later studied archaeology at the University of Kent. She is the author of the Aelf Fen, Hawkenlye, Gabriel Taverner and World’s End Bureau Mysteries.

View author page

Editions

The Thief and the Labyrinth by Alys Clare is available in the following formats

97814483175926th October 2026 X mm256£12.99
Hardback97814483175856th October 2026144 X 222mm256£21.99
Hardback97814483175856th October 2026144 X 222mm256$39.99
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