Deep Dark by Zohra Nabi ~ Blog Tour

Intricately plotted and richly layered, Deep Dark is the first in a wonderful new series by Zohra Nabi. Set in Victorian London, this historical fantasy whisks readers away to the darkest corners of a humming city. A vibrant cast challenge the politics and social justice of the time as ancient rivers carry history beneath their feet. Issues of poverty, class, imperialism and capitalism feed the stories of these characters as readers develop empathy for those who live so close to the streets yet are full of hope for a better life. The arts of music and storytelling weave the fabric of a deeply engaging adventure unlike any other.

Cassia Thorne wishes her father had never brought her to London. Five years ago, he lost everything with the East India Company. Determined to sort out his affairs in person, he took Cassia away from everything she had ever known in India to face life in a debtors’ prison. While her father spends dark days trapped in his own loss and anger, Cassia roams the streets of London trying to make something of herself. Employed as a music tutor and a street singer, what she really loves is writing ballads. She dreams of becoming a famous author and making a successful life for herself.

Cassia gathers stories for her ballads from her friends at the Bartholomew Fair. Pickpockets, hard-working families and mudlarks, they are close to real life and real stories. When Cassia and her friends start to notice children going missing from the streets, she knows she has to find out what’s going on. Encountering workhouses, churches, hospitals and prisons, she questions who is caring for the poor – and who is not.

With the help of her new friend Felix, a wealthy boy with powerful connections, and Teo, an Italian pickpocket gifted with song, Cassia uncovers a dark underworld of conspiracy, lies and monstrous behaviour. The value of poor children is brought into question as men’s business ambitions are deemed more important. Strange tunes, heart-stopping roars, dark tunnels and a terrifying creature lead Cassia and her friends on a quest that forces them to risk it all. This is more than just survival; it’s discovering the truth of a deadly organisation determined to win any cost.

Fans of Malamander as well as stories set in the great city of London will be completely captivated by this unique fusion of history and fantasy. Deep Dark will definitely be one of my favourite reads of 2025 and one that I will recommend for readers who are looking for a complex, thrilling adventure.

Thank you to Simon & Schuster for a copy of this fantastic book! Don’t miss the rest of the stops on the blog tour.

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