The Hangman in the Mirror by Kate Cayley

She had aspirations of becoming a fine lady's maid; she had no idea that would eventually end in her being condemned to death...

Annick Press and Net Galley let me download a copy of this ebook for review (thank you).  It will be available for purchase on September 1st.  I found this book fascinating and very interesting.  It's based on historical fact written in fiction form.

Francoise had never had much luck in life.  Not enough food to eat, a cottage that was falling apart, her parents were drunks, and their livelihood was washing clothes for other people.  She stole what she could for meals because the money was spent on alcohol.  As if that wasn't enough trouble in her life, her parents got smallpox and died from the disease.  What was she to do?

When a neighbor gets her a letter of recommendation and she attains a lady's maid position, she thinks she has it made and life would be so much better.  But, in time, she longs for just one thing that would belong to her.  She steals her lady's gloves (she has dozens of pairs, she won't miss them) just to wear them at night and carry them with her during the day.  It satisfies that need.  It also puts a noose around her neck...

There is only one small chance of salvation.  But can she do it?  Can she convince him?

Here is trailer so you can see the position she is in:  The Hangman in the Mirror

This story reminded me of one I'd read long called The Lady or the Tiger.  The question of who is coming out of the door is not answered in the story.  This story is just as dramatic.

I highly recommend this book.  It was an accurate historical piece that added character and flavor to the book.  The main character is no better than she should be, but hanging her is a bit extreme.  I empathized with her and worried about the final outcome.  I'd read this one again; it's that good.

Happy reading.