The Rat Catcher's Daughter by KJ Charles is a charming novella set in the Lilywhite Boys series, focusing on the sweet and tender romance between Miss Christiana, a musical hall singer and female impersonator, and Stan, the Lilywhite Boys' fence. The story follows Christiana's struggle with a debt owned by a gang leader, Kammy, and Stan's unwavering support and admiration for her, leading to a heartwarming connection between the two characters. KJ Charles's writing style is described as impeccable, with an exciting plot, endearing characters, and a focus on LGBTQ representation, making it a delightful and engaging read for fans of the series.

Characters:

The main characters, Christiana and Stan, exhibit supportive and tender relationships, both identifying as asexual and seamlessly bonding over their shared experiences.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by impeccable prose that balances fun and lightness, though it is noted as being less complex than some of the author's earlier works.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot follows Miss Christiana's struggle with debt to Kammy Grizzard, her subsequent rescue by two men, and the blossoming romance between her and Stan.

Setting:

The setting is Victorian England, portraying the music hall performance scene and elements of the underground crime world, highlighting contemporary societal issues.

Pacing:

The pacing is rapid and fitting for a novella, concentrating more on character relationships and romance rather than a lengthy plot.

Notes:

The main character, Christiana, begins as a singer who is entangled in debt to a gangster.

Stanislav, or Stan, rescues Christiana from her situation by paying off her debt.

Both Christiana and Stan are asexual, which is a rare representation in romance.

Christiana is a trans woman, navigating her identity in Victorian England.

The story features a blend of crime, romance, and elements of comedy.

This novella is a prequel to the Lilywhite Boys series, providing backstory for characters in later books.

The relationship between Christiana and Stan is characterized by tenderness and mutual support.

The writing style of K.J. Charles is praised for its quality and charm.

The plot includes themes of justice against bad characters, leading to satisfying resolutions.

Even though it's a short novella, readers find it deeply satisfying and heartwarming.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include the themes of debt slavery, potential violence, and hints of past trauma related to the characters' backgrounds.

Has Romance?

The romance between the main characters is significant and deeply interwoven into the storyline.

implied steam level

From The Publisher:

Music-hall singer Miss Christiana is in serious debt, and serious trouble. She owes more than she can pay to a notorious criminal, and now he plans to make an example of her. There's no way out.

But Christiana has an admirer. Stan Kamarzyn has watched her sing for a year and he doesn't want to see her get hurt. Stan's nobody special-just a dodgy bloke from Bethnal Green-but he's got useful friends, the sort who can get a girl out of trouble, for a price. Christiana's not sure what it will cost her...

The two slowly reach an understanding. But Christiana is no criminal, and she can't risk getting mixed up with the law. What will happen when Stan's life as the fence for the notorious Lilywhite Boys brings trouble to his doorstep?

A trans f/m asexual romance novelette (17,000 words).

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The Rat-Catcher's Daughter

K.J. Charles

Book 3 in the series:Lilywhite Boys