The Ruby in the Smoke

The Ruby in the Smoke (1985) is a novel by the English author Philip Pullman. It was also adapted for television in 2006. This is the first of four mystery novels set in 19th-century England involving 16-year-old heroine Sally Lockhart. It introduces us to the main characters and several continuing story lines. Sally's father has died, so she moves in with a distant aunt, Mrs Rees. She receives a letter warning her to beware of the Seven Blessing... more

The Ruby in the Smoke (1985) is a novel by the English author Philip Pullman. It was also adapted for television in 2006. This is the first of four mystery novels set in 19th-century England involving 16-year-old heroine Sally Lockhart. It introduces us to the main characters and several continuing story lines. Sally's father has died, so she moves in with a distant aunt, Mrs Rees. She receives a letter warning her to beware of the Seven Blessings. After Sally begins to investigate the letter, she learns that she is in danger. She then receives a second letter of warning, and a book about her father's experiences in India. A Mrs Holland attempts to steal the book from Sally and threatens anyone who comes to her aid. Sally is befriended by a young photographer, Frederick Garland, and his sister. It is they who provide Sally with friendship, a home and employment while she investigates the book and Mrs Holland. Several people are murdered, and the lives of Sally and her friends appear... less