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The Covent Garden Ladies

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The Covent Garden Ladies

By: Hallie Rubenhold
Narrated by: Emily Pennant-Rea, Hallie Rubenhold
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About this listen

The book that inspired BBC 2’s Harlots, now with a new preface read by the author. 

From the best-selling author of The Five. 

1757 - Harris's List of Covent Garden Ladies, a salacious publication detailing the names and 'specialties' of the capital's prostitutes, eventually became one of the 18th century's most successful literary works as well as an essential accessory for any serious gentleman of pleasure.

Beyond its titillating passages lay a glimpse into the sex lives of those who lived and died by the list's profits during the Georgian era.  

The Covent Garden Ladies tells the story of three unusual characters whose colourful lives were brought together by this publication.  

Its story plunges the listener down the dark alleys of 18th-century London's underworld, a realm populated by tavern owners, pimps, punters, card sharks and, of course, a colourful range of prostitutes and brothel keepers. 

©2005 Hallie Rubenhold (P)2019 W. F. Howes Ltd Europe Great Britain Historical

Critic reviews

"Rubenhold proves herself both a keen researcher and a writer who understands narrative tension...a compelling and ingenious book." (The Independent)

"Scrupulously researched and cleverly structured.... Among the scurrilous tales of 18th-century low life...this one is the most intriguing." (The Daily Telegraph)

All stars
Most relevant
Bringing to life the long dead ladies who were recorded, lauded and maligned by Harris’ list. Some errors in the presentation but a fascinating listen.

Takes from the sex trade of the 1750s

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This book was very well researched and excellently written. I felt compassion and sadneas for the various characters and was grateful that even though sometimes sad there stories were still told

Fascinating look at a less mentioned history

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An eye opener! The author's use of language weaves intrigue into the world of 18th century prostitution.

Rivetting

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Loved delving into the depths of our shadowed hostory. A rare and well structured story, encapsulating the plight of sex workers, and the society in which they fought for survival.

Her Empathy

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An interesting book, but unfortunately as there is scarce information on the lives of the Ladies, the author had to focus on the better recorded histories of the two men who created the List. This is a shame, because their stories aren't half as interesting as any of women mentioned. I really didn't need to hear whole chapters on Samuel Derrick's pre-London life.
As an audiobook, the narrator is excellent, and it was a pleasure to listen to.

3 stars

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