The Blackbirds of St. Giles

by Lila Cain

Some things are earned. Some things are worth fighting for… 

It’s 1780, Daniel and his sister Pearl arrive in London with the world at their feet and their future assured. Having escaped a Jamaican sugar plantation, Daniel fought for the British in the American War of Independence and was rewarded with freedom and an inheritance.  

But the city is not a place for men like Daniel and he is callously tricked and finds himself, along with his sister Pearl, in the rookeries of St Giles – a warren of dark and menacing alleyways, filled with violence and poverty.  

The underworld labyrinth is run by Elias, a man whose cruelty knows no bounds. But under his dangerous rule is a brotherhood of Black men, the Blackbirds of St Giles, whose intention is to set their people free.  

Can Daniel use his strength, wit and the fellowship of the other Blackbirds to overthrow Elias and truly find the freedom he fought for…? 

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical, Fiction, Fantasy, British Literature, Audiobook, Adult Fiction

496 pages, Hardcover

Published May 27, 2025

Reviews

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Blackbirds of St Giles brings a perilous journey of two siblings, Daniel and Pearl, who escape a slave rebellion in Jamaica in 1768.

Their journey takes them to New York where in 1776, Daniel answers king’s call to join His Majesty’s Troops during the struggles to retain America in exchange for freedom. While picking up the arms, Daniel saves a Major’s life in a battle. He is rewarded with the man’s inheritance. Thus, the journey takes him and his sister to London.

But promises are not always kept. What was supposed to be a rewarding life turns into a misery and another fight for survival. The siblings are thrown into the streets of dark parts of London brimming with poverty and cruelty.

This poignant story vividly paints the terrifying streets of 18th century London, the treacherous realities and persistence of two siblings exposing their hopes and despairs. It’s charged emotionally, and the bond between two siblings is deep and at times overprotective. It’s the story of resilience against prejudice.

This story exposes the lesser-known period in history, with captivating characters that can aw but also frustrate at times. It is a reminder of human nature to fight for freedom and dignity. Even with the gripping journey, the story has a slower pace.

Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Tilly Fitzgerald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Actual rating 4.5.

What a moving and enraging read this one was 💔 I honestly almost had to put it down when reading the first part as I was just so furious with the injustice of it all, but I’m so glad I carried on as Daniel and Pearl were such incredible characters.

There’s no sugarcoating this book - it’s devastating, horrifying and everything else you’d expect from a story that begins with slavery. But thankfully, it’s also surprisingly hopeful and among the monstrous characters there are also some truly kind and brave ones who remind you that there’s good in the world.

I don’t know what I’d class this story as - obviously it’s historical fiction, but there’s also an element of crime and violence to it, a love story and there’s a real focus on family and friendship too. I have no doubt lots of you will appreciate this compelling and necessary novel as much as I did!

[Dan Bassett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some things are earned.
Some things are worth fighting for.
The year is 1782.
Daniel and his sister Pearl arrive in London with the world waiting to serve them in any way it can, for isn’t the great city of London the beating heart of the ambitious and cunning minds of man?
Having escaped a Jamaican sugar plantation and all of its horrors, Daniel took his place beside his fellow man and fought for the British in the American War of Independence and as a reward for his valiant efforts, has been gifted his freedom with an inheritance…
Yet the city of London is not the place Daniel thought it was, and before he can blink, he and Pearl find themselves in The rookeries of St. Giles - a damp, unforgiving, menacing warren of alleyways - and it becomes clear they have entered a cruel and violent underworld, far from the ideals of London they had both dreamed of, and more akin to what they had left behind abroad…
This labyrinth is run by Elias, a man whose cruelty is only matched by his greed however just outside of his all seeing eyes, the brotherhood of Black men, The Blackbirds of St. Giles, plot and plan to set their people free, ending the tyranny of Elias once and for all, at any cost necessary yet they all must be careful, for nothing goes unseen to the trained eye, as Daniel may find out the hard way should he take one wrong step on his mission to free those under such an oppressive and corrupt regime, and Daniel cannot help shake off the suspicions that his past may be drawing in closer ready to upend any stability he longs to achieve.
Together with his new brethren, can Daniel overthrow Elias, finding freedom for those around him, as well as securing what was once his, or will powers that brood in the shadows strike him down before he can?
Fast-paced, action-packed, and emotionally-driven, The Blackbirds of St. Giles makes for an addictive, propulsive, and obsessive read!

[❁lilith❁ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Dafina for providing me with this eARC! All thoughts are my own.
____________________

It is not entirely the fault of the novel, but it did take me a significant time to finish. I enjoyed the beginning and the end parts but the middle lost me for a while. The key themes were still portrayed well, the history and the subjugation of Black people in 1700s London was integral to the plot and the characters, but the plot itself did find its way into a bit of a lull. I also enjoyed how such a tight knit group of characters formed, though the circumstances which brought them together were awful. I really connected with Pearl, this young Black girl who wants to explore the world but also care for her older brother the way he has always protected and cared for her. The way she becomes stifled by the life she is forced to lead because of society’s prejudices is so painful to see, but she blossoms nevertheless and became my favourite character.
The plot twist near the end of the book did feel as though it came out of nowhere. Perhaps I missed the signs that were there earlier but I am usually pretty good at guessing twists. It was fine, but the villainisation of a certain character who had undergone such traumatic events in her life rubbed me the wrong way towards the end. Check out any trigger warnings if you know yourself to be averse to discussions of SA, misogyny, and racism.

[Books Amongst Friends · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook/Narration: 4/5
RC/ Overall Story: 4.5/5

One of my favorite things about a good historical fiction is how easily it can catapult you into a wormhole of deep diving for more information. The Blackbirds of St. Giles does this and more!

I’m genuinely shocked that there aren’t more people raving about this book. It’s a standout for historical fiction that doesn’t necessarily focus on a specific event or historical figure, but a physical place in time. With that, I felt the author had so much freedom to create and utilize vivid and dynamic characters to expand on the readers understanding of the setting. Cain made it easy to connect with this duo while highlighting a historical place that was filled with danger, debauchery, and uncertainty. Cain does an amazing job of centering the rookeries of Saint Giles to offer readers a resonant familial story of perseverance, endurance, betrayal, and survival.

Daniel and Pearl are the type of characters that a lot of readers can see themselves in. In their own way, they are both powerful, resilient, loyal, versatile…. and a little overprotective. We not only get to appreciate them individually, but through their bond as siblings and all they’ve survived together. From escaping a slave rebellion, leaving all they knew behind, fighting in His Majesty’s troops, and the betrayal of having what was promised to them taken—readers will find themselves deeply caring for these two.

The Blackbirds of St. Giles was a gripping, cruel, and adventurous journey that ignites with betrayal, revenge, setbacks, and triumphs. Cain has delivered a great story that is not only historically unique, but richly human and layered. I found myself asking: Can hope exist in a place like this? It doesn’t take long to realize that The Blackbirds of St. Giles are hope embodied. That community is hope shared. That ultimately, hope doesn’t solely exist in these rookeries, but it thrives!

[Emma Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️ Blurb -
It’s 1780, Daniel and his sister Pearl arrive in London with the world at their feet and their future assured. Having escaped a Jamaican sugar plantation, Daniel fought for the British in the American War of Independence and was rewarded with freedom and an inheritance.  
But the city is not a place for men like Daniel and he is callously tricked and finds himself, along with his sister Pearl, in the rookeries of St Giles – a warren of dark and menacing alleyways, filled with violence and poverty.  
The underworld labyrinth is run by Elias, a man whose cruelty knows no bounds. But under his dangerous rule is a brotherhood of Black men, the Blackbirds of St Giles, whose intention is to set their people free.  
Can Daniel use his strength, wit and the fellowship of the other Blackbirds to overthrow Elias and truly find the freedom he fought for…? 
💜 Review -
This was such a beautifully written novel. I was hooked from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. There was obviously a lot of research done for the book as the attention to detail for the time period was spot on. The story was interesting and easy to follow, had good pacing and I liked the great mix of characters. Overall, a beautiful novel that I highly recommend to other readers.
💚 Thank you to Random Things Tours, the author and publisher for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Lata · Rating 4 out of 5]

A brother and sister must learn to make their way in late 1700s London after they are cheated out of the future they were promised.

The novel opens on devastation at a Jamaican plantation; the slaves have revolted, and burned the place down, looting whatever they can then fleeing. Daniel and his young sister Pearl barely escape, and spend years in hiding, before Daniel enlists, along with a number of other former slaves, with the British Army, who need men to oppose the colonists in what will become America.

After the conflict, the British king promises the Black soldiers a new life in Britain. Daniel is eager to set sail with Pearl; he has what the King has promised, as well as an inheritance from the Major whose life he saved during the war.

Of course, things don't transpire as expected, and Daniel and Pearl find themselves with nothing, unsurprisingly, and in great danger when there are abandoned, and Dainel badly beaten, on the streets of the St. Giles neighbourhood in London, a place full of poverty and desperate people who ran out of options elsewhere in the city. The people live within the crypts of St. Giles church, and it's a foul and cramped place. St. Giles is also ruled by the ruthless Elias, a gang boss who styles himself a gentleman, and whose word is law.

Daniel and his sister are taken in by Jen, in exchange for protection from Elias. He blackmails Daniel into becoming a boxer, claiming as long as Daniel wins an upcoming bout, Elias will not send the adolescent and strongminded Pearl to a brothel.

Daniel finds a wide variety of people living in St. Giles, including a Black apothecary named Jerome who treats the people of the neighbourhood. Jerome introduces Daniel to prosperous Black men in London whose families have been in Britain for generations, in some cases, and who wake Daniel up to the dangers of attracting the notice of the law, who would put people on slave ships bound for the colonies across the Atlantic. But they also show him of things he can aspire to in London.

Through his time with the Blackbirds, and learning to trust those around him, including his sister's desires to make a life she's happy with, Daniel begins making a life in London.

This is a moving story of a time in London's past I was not familiar with, so it was great to learn about the St. Giles neighbourhood, as well as the types of people who lived and worked in London at this time.

Was I surprised to learn that the Crown utterly failed to live up to its promises to Black soldiers who fought for them? Nope. Was I surprised by the utterly horrible conditions poor people lived in and the immense contrast between them and the lives of the gentility? Nope. But it was still horrifying to read about. But it was also fantastic to read about the way various people, such as Inigo Richardson, had made fulfilling lives for themselves, and how they aimed to share this life with others.

I enjoyed the way the authors writing as Lila Cain take us through Daniel's growth and the evolving relationship he has with Pearl, and with others in St. Giles. He starts out as proud of his achievements, and protective of Pearl, then when adversity hits, he is full of anger and fear, and becomes overly protective of his sister. Damiel's journey is exciting, sometimes very frustrating, but also compelling.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and what it shows us of a lesser known part of history.

Thank you to Netgalley and to Kensington Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.

[Natalie "Curling up with a Coffee and a Kindle" Laird · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful read. I could not put this down once I'd gotten past the first few chapters. A real eye opener to a part of London's history I knew nothing about.
Brilliant. I can't wait to see what Lila Cain write about next.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a well-thought-out story that provides a glimpse of a shameful period of history. The trials, tribulations, and accomplishments of those who were marginalized by society are heart wrenching as well as awe inspiring.

[Lj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daniel and his sister Pearl escape a sugar Plantation in Jamaica called The Salutation, during a revolt by the slaves. He leaves behind his brother Jon and his mother, in order to save Pearl.
The love of his life Adanna dies in a fire at the estate house and Daniel is heartbroken not to have been able to rescue her.

Daniel takes Pearl to the Maroons and ultimately they journey to North America where Daniel enlists under the King's army. He is well liked and promoted by Major Fitzallen after saving his life. Pearl is taken under wing by Fitzallen's wife and life for both siblings flourishes.

During the crossing to England as the British army retreats, Daniel is promised a new life by King, country and Major Fitzallen.
When they arrive in London, his dreams are dashed; and he and Pearl are thrown into poverty and squalor in the Rookery of St Giles.

Relying on the kindness of his new neighbours and his fists where necessary, Daniel and Pearl are forced to carve out a new life for themselves.

But adversity comes quickly in the form of the King of the Rookery, Elias; he's the cruel and evil overlord of the destitute Blackbirds of St Giles. A self described captor.

I truly enjoyed this book and give it a genuine bona fide 5 * rating.
It has a diverse range of characters and a great plot that keeps you on your toes.

Daniel is a loveable protagonist if not at times deeply frustrating. He is fiercely protective of his sister, perhaps overwhelmingly so. I wanted to give him a good shake, but there were certainly lessons for him to learn.

Secrets, lies and miscommunication rule the pages of this engaging and thought provoking novel. It's a brilliant piece of historical fiction; and I honestly think it's the most captivating book of it's genre I've read in quite some time.

There is romance and intrigue, yet at it's heart is a beautiful relationship between a brother and his sister.

Is Daniel perfect? No. Does he make mistakes? Yes, a bucket full. But what this clever writing conveys is someone human, real, with true gritty emotions around possessiveness and the need to protect those you love.
The racism and disappointments that the siblings experience are woven into this tale of violence and poverty. But with adversity comes hope for better.
This is a story of rags to riches- riches of the heart through love and friendship; found family and the respect of those in the St Giles community who come together to help and support Daniel and Pearl during their hardships.

All in all this is a well written and great debut novel for Lila Cain. I absolutely look forward to anything else she writes next and I think she's definitely one to watch.

I also want to thank Simon & Schuster UK Ltd and Netgalley for this Advanced Reader Copy. I was thrilled to receive it and was in no way disappointed at all by this fabulous novel.

[MaryannC Victorian Dreamer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jamaica, 1780. Daniel and younger sister Pearl escape from a sugar plantation during a violent uprising where they lose the rest of their family and Daniel's one true love Adanna. Fast forward a decade later Daniel finds himself in New York as a former slave fighting for Britain in the War of Independence against America. For his bravery in saving Major Edward Fitzallen during the battle Daniel is bequeathed the Major's inheritance on his deathbed as they return back to England. But Daniel's promised good fortune is not to be when he is tricked by the Major's brother and the document proving his inheritance is burnt. Left suddenly homeless and penniless Daniel and Pearl begin their journey of survival through the mazes beneath St. Giles Rookery, a place where poverty, hunger and crime run rampant and no one is to be trusted. But seeking their survival comes with a price and that is by the hand of Elias a powerful underground king of sorts who rules the crypts of the rookery and Daniel finds himself fighting for his and Pearl's life against the brutal Elias in a fight he didn't choose.
Was very excited to be approved to read this by Edelweiss and NetGalley, this was very atmospheric and I must admit that when I read this, in my mind's eye I saw Daniel as the utterly handsome Rege- Jean Page of Bridgerton fame and it made this read even the more enjoyable. Recommended

Thank you to author Lila Cain, Edelweiss and NetGalley for approving me for a copy of this in exchange for my honest review

[Martha Dunlop · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. It’s the most incredibly rich historical novel with fabulous characters, evocative settings and an exciting, fast paced story.

Daniel and his family are slaves in Jamaica, but when their sugar plantation burns to the ground, Daniel takes his younger sister and runs for safety. Joining the British army, he resolves to earn his freedom and at the beginning of the novel he is on his way to England with a friend and sponsor who promises him a good life. But things don’t go the way he expected and he finds himself having to fend for himself, protect his younger sister, and rely on the kindness of strangers in an unwelcoming city.

Daniel has a fierce independence and his fire shines through every encounter, showing his own physical, emotional and mental strength, but also his weaknesses. He is fabulously real, honourable, frustrating and hot headed. Pearl, his sister, is kind hearted but also has her own determination, and I love how she fights for her own independence in spite of all the obstacles she faces.

Standing behind Daniel and Pearl is a fabulous cast of characters, all vividly painted and real with different strengths and rich personal histories. I loved the sense of community, their protectiveness of those they stand beside, and their willingness to fight for their idealism.

Much of the story is set underground in a labyrinth of tunnels, as well as in crowded pubs and dimly lit streets. Danger lurks around every corner, but there is also a sense of security in the tight-knit community, that gives a feeling of home in spite of the squalor. All of these contrast with the enormous wealth that comes through in flashes as we see the homes of the rich, where there is always a strict hierarchy with the privileged standing over those they see as powerlessness.

On top of all this character and setting, sits a fabulously exciting story with drama, conflict and romance. We go from slums to Society gatherings and the sumptuous residence of gang leaders. There are secrets and betrayals set against deep loyalty. There is so much going on and I can’t wait to read the sequel to find out what happens next.

[Samantha (A Dream of Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is a mesmerising story set in 1782 which captivates with its rich language, historical detail and brilliantly realised characters.

The main character Daniel, along with his sister Pearl, arrive in London with great prospects ahead of them. Their fortunes however, change in the blink of an eye and they find themselves cast adrift in the rookeries of St Giles.

Based on the real life St Giles Rookery in Georgian London, the book weaves together fact and fiction. It shines a light on the situation faced by Black people living in the city during this period, many of whom had fought in the American War of Independence and had an expectation of better lives.

The main hook for me in the story was the relationship between Daniel and Pearl. They have a strong bond and Daniel would do anything to protect her. I also loved the unusual characters that came into their lives throughout the story and helped them along the way.

This was a fantastic read with a captivating story that really drew me in and kept me glued to the pages. Dickens-like in style, I would highly recommend it.

[Kristen M Savatt · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was thankful to be a giveaway winner for an ARC of this book, though unfortunately I didn’t finish it till well after its release date. The subject and the story itself was such an interesting topic, but the pacing and writing style got in my way of enjoying it as much as I hoped to. I never usually mind a long book, but I struggled to pick this one up.

[Colleen Maclennan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dark book on the plight of slaves and the corruption of those whose seek power at the expense of others . The network of underground tunnels that existed in London in 1780 and housed the poorest of poor was well described although difficult to comprehend. The book had a maze of characters most vile and unsavoury but some had redeeming qualities that showed goodness can exist . The bond of family and friends existed in this book but was often overshadowed by all the despair . The ending showed promise of a change for the better .

[The Bookish Elf · Rating 4 out of 5]

The narrative opens in 1768 on the Garnett Plantation in Jamaica where Daniel, a young enslaved man, makes a desperate bid for freedom with his sister Pearl. Years later, having fought for the British in the American War of Independence and rewarded with both freedom and inheritance, Daniel and Pearl arrive in London with dreams of a better life. Instead, they are betrayed, robbed, and cast into the labyrinthine rookeries of St. Giles—a place of crushing poverty and casual brutality, known as a “nest of thieves” in Georgian society.

What follows is an extraordinary battle for survival, identity, and justice. Daniel must navigate a criminal underworld dominated by the elusive and cruel Elias, while discovering a secret network of Black men known as The Blackbirds of St. Giles, whose mission is to uplift their own amid oppression.

Cain’s London is not the one found in typical regency tales—it is fetid, dangerous, yet also resilient. The narrative builds toward a climax as Daniel, betrayed and defiant, harnesses both inner strength and community to reclaim what was stolen: his dignity, his sister, and his future.

Major Themes and Analytical Breakdown
1. Freedom vs. Illusion of Freedom

Though Daniel technically earns his freedom, the novel explores the harsh reality that liberty in name alone is meaningless when society is built to oppress. His experience parallels many real-life Black soldiers who were promised sanctuary after fighting for the Crown, only to be abandoned.

The stark contrast between promised freedom and lived experience is echoed in the line: “It was my own future I fought for.”

The rookeries become symbolic: not just a physical trap, but a societal one, mirroring post-enslavement disenfranchisement.

2. Brotherhood and Betrayal

The book repeatedly interrogates who can be trusted, with betrayal acting as a core motif—be it political, personal, or familial.

Daniel’s fall from grace begins with betrayal, while his redemption is catalyzed through solidarity among the Blackbirds.

Elias’s manipulative control over the rookery’s Black inhabitants is contrasted against the selfless heroism of figures like Octavian and Jerome.

3. The Invisible Histories of Black Britain

This is not only a novel but a necessary act of historical correction. Cain crafts a vivid tapestry of Georgian London’s hidden Black communities, showing their agency, struggles, and vibrancy in the face of systemic erasure.

Real figures like abolitionist Ottobah Cugoano are imaginatively woven into the narrative, adding authenticity and gravityThe Blackbirds of St. G….

The authors' decision to center a Black protagonist in a richly detailed 18th-century London is revolutionary for a genre that often excludes such voices.

Characters: Complex, Vivid, and Deeply Human
Daniel

As the novel’s beating heart, Daniel is far more than a typical hero. He is proud, wounded, intelligent, and flawed. His trauma does not define him, but it shapes his perspective and actions.

His evolution—from an idealistic ex-soldier to a hardened leader among the Blackbirds—is both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

His inner conflict over fighting tyranny while serving empire adds a layer of moral complexity.

Pearl

Pearl is no passive victim. Her trajectory is one of self-determination and strength. At times naïve but never weak, she’s a refreshing portrayal of female agency in a patriarchal world.

Her relationship with Daniel is the emotional anchor of the novel.

Pearl’s experiences offer a window into the commodification of Black women and the strength required to reclaim autonomy.

Elias

A truly chilling antagonist, Elias represents systemic oppression incarnate. He's not just a villain—he’s the embodiment of a world where power corrupts absolutely. Yet, even he is rendered with psychological depth.

His control is insidious, his cruelty, deliberate. But Cain doesn’t make him cartoonish—his motivations are tangled in the very structures Daniel seeks to dismantle.

Writing Style: Dickensian Grit with Poetic Precision

Cain’s prose echoes the weight and texture of 18th-century fiction while remaining modern in rhythm. Descriptions are lush without being overwrought, and dialogue is sharp, often tinged with tension.

There is a tangible sensory richness to every scene—from the stench of alleyways to the rustle of wigs in a gentleman’s club.

The pacing is deliberate in early chapters, building to a gripping crescendo as stakes rise.

Strengths

Historical Authenticity: The book’s rich context and its rootedness in real historical dynamics provide a rare level of immersionThe Blackbirds of St. G….

Social Relevance: It’s a timely reflection on systemic inequality, racial identity, and the myth of meritocracy.

Complex Characters: Every character—from leads to side players—is infused with nuance, motivation, and evolution.

Powerful Imagery: Scenes like the fire-lit escape from the plantation or the underground gatherings of the Blackbirds leave a lasting imprint.

Inclusion of Real Figures: Characters like Ottobah Cugoano blend fiction with historical legacy, enhancing depthThe Blackbirds of St. G….

Weaknesses

Even great novels have imperfections:

Pacing in Early Chapters: The first third may feel slightly meandering for readers used to rapid plot movement.

Overcrowding of Characters: While rich in ensemble, at times the sheer number of secondary characters can be overwhelming, particularly without immediate narrative payoff.

Predictable Twists: Some reveals (especially regarding Elias and Daniel’s betrayal) are foreseeable, though still impactful.

Verdict: A Must-Read Historical Revelation

The Blackbirds of St. Giles is not merely a novel—it is a reclamation. A historical fiction tour de force that centers Black experience without compromise, it achieves what the best literature aspires to: transformation. It makes readers think, weep, question, and hope.

For fans of epic historical narratives, socially engaged fiction, or readers simply seeking a gripping story told with truth and tenderness, this book delivers.

[A Bookworm Crafts · Rating 4 out of 5]

This historical fiction novel transports us to London in the 1780s where we follow the trials and tribulations of Daniel, a former plantation slave, and his sister Pearl. Promised a better life, Danial and Pearl find themselves forced to start all over again in the slums when they are betrayed.

I really enjoyed the evocative portrayal of life in the eighteenth century. Both educational and entertaining, this novel transports us to the gritty streets of London at a time when being a person of colour, a woman, or a woman of colour, was fraught with peril.

A recommended read for fans of Dickensian storytelling told from a perspective often overlooked in traditional narratives.

Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Shuster UK for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Irene · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has a lot of background details of each character. Which is great. You see where that person comes from, and then how they got to their current position.
Daniel who was a freed from serving in His Majesties military, was caught in a very bad situation where his Captain couldn't help him due to the Captain's death. Daniel and Pearl then went from living a nice cushion life to living in a run down used room.
I really tried to get into this book, I just couldn't keep track of all the characters and then their current state. I will try again in a few months. Thank you NetGalley and Kensington for the advance copy.

[Alice Marks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a book!

Inspired by a much ignored aspect of black British history, The Blackbirds of St Giles is the story of two emancipated slaves seeking to build a life for themselves in 17th century London. Having fought for the British in the war of independence, Daniel travels to England accompanied by his little sister Pearl with the promise of a grand inheritance, bestowed by an army major he befriended during his service. Instead, he finds himself beaten, cheated and robbed of his fortune, ultimately having to scrape an existence within St Giles infamous ‘rookery’, the home of 17th century Londons impoverished immigrant community.

It’s a wonderfully Dickensian imagining of a part of British history that is woefully neglected, shedding light on the lives of black men and women in Georgian England in a novel pumped fully of drama, twists, and memorable characters. By the end of the book a had a particular soft spot for Sparrow, a scrappy lad with a ridiculous coat who is very reminiscent of the Artful Dodger in Oliver Twist. Daniel himself is also a fantastic lead, and I found it very easy to relate to him and his motivations. He’s not a perfect protagonist and makes plenty of mistakes and bad choices throughout the novel, and feels incredibly real and human for it. All in all it’s a really fun, gripping historical romp and I’d highly recommend it.

[Rachel Blades · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
This was a journey! It was emotional, thrilling , sad, mysterious, and at its core a story about love. This had a lot of twists and turns and I kept being surprised. This was a unique story and different than anything else I have read recently.

[Sharon Faulkner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, I won it in a Goodreads giveaway a few months ago. Having grown up in the UK there were a lot of interesting facts that I learned that I now want to look into further, that’s why I love historical fiction, you learn things and what to know the actual facts. This whole period of history and the way that certain classes were treated was never really covered in history lessons, but I feel that this book has brought it to life beautifully. The only reasons I gave it 4 stars not 5 was that the start was bit slow and the end was a bit rushed. Otherwise the characters were clear and lively, although I did picture Elias as the goblin king in the movie The Hobbit for a lot of the book, I’m not sure why!

[Books By Your Bedside · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.

Lila Cain is the pen name for the combination of Kate Griffin and Marcia Hutchinson. I enjoyed Kate's book Fyneshade but haven't read any of Marcia's. I'm always amazed by dual written books because is it like, do you write one chapter each? One character each? Do you each write the whole thing and then merge them together? Does one write it and the other edit? The logistics of it baffle me.

Anyone who knows me knows my general hatred of long books. 300-400 (but closer to 300) is my sweet spot. It's not that I hate books out and out, but generally I find the long books I've read very rarely warrant being that long and then I get bored. I have read a handful of long books I liked, but unfortunately I do have a tendency to go into longer books with an already negative attitude. But I tried to ignore that with this book because I like Kate's writing and I've seen some fabulous early reviews.

The 1700s is not an era I read much about. Thinking back to the historical books I've read, they tend to either be back in Shakespeare/Henry VIII time (so the 1500s), or the Victorian time (1800s), or during WW1/WW2 (1914-1945). I can't remember any books I've read set in that time, and so that was a nice difference for me as a reader.

"The novel Dickens didn't write, but should have done." - Sean Lusk
Okay, so that's some big words. I am a Dickens obsessive and quite protective over anything that links to his work, because rarely does it actually match up. But I do have to agree with Sean here. There's definitely a sense of David Copperfield or Oliver Twist about it.

It isn't an easy book to read. It shouldn't come as a surprise considering it's about characters of colour in the 1700s. They were not treated nicely and I wish I could say it's just fictional, but as we all know it is all too real. And Kate and Marcia have not sugar coated things. It is hard and harsh and raw and bloody and uncomfortable, but it's equally as important to read because of how hard it is.

There are a lot of characters - goodies and baddies, slave owners and the enslaved, friends and foes - and so I won't go into detail about them or we'll be here forever. But our main character is Daniel, with the secondary main character being his sister Pearl. Daniel is not perfect and nor does he pretend to be so. He makes mistakes, he hurts people, and he keeps too much in and pushes people away, but he's a fabulous creation. Together, they are delightful. They've been through things you wouldn't wish upon your worst enemy and yet (or maybe because of) they still have this fire within them, they're so powerful, they completely held this book in their hands and were mesmerising. I was on their journey with them and really wanted them to succeed.

Kate and Marcia have created such a sense of atmosphere - you can smell the murkiness in the air, you can put yourself into the story and it's an unpleasant place to be. But it really adds to the gravitas to the story itself.

There were bits quicker than others and slower than others (which I expected in a book of nearly 500 pages). Some bits were given a bit too much focus and others a bit less than I'd have liked, but if you take it all together then I think it's paced well for the subject matter. It feels like the authors want to make the reader feel uncomfortable, wants us to realise the plight of these characters and really immerse ourselves with them. And if you make it go too fast then we end up not caring about them. But by adding slower elements, it allows us to get to know them and what they've been through, and then this strengthens the whole thing.

It's not full of twists and turns like a thriller is, but there are definitely revelations that I didn't see coming, things that kept me on my toes, which was a nice surprise.

Has this converted me to the way of long books? No, I don't think it has. They're just not for me. However, this book was very much for me. It warranted being that long but I never felt lost. It had to be that long to fit all its heart into and I think shortening it would have been to its detriment.

[Mana · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lila Cain's »The Blackbirds of St. Giles« transports readers on an emotionally charged journey through the tumultuous lives of escaped enslaved siblings, Daniel and Pearl, as they traverse the perilous streets of 18th-century London.

The novel commences with a gripping scene, where Daniel and Pearl flee a violent rebellion on a Jamaican plantation, setting the stage for their pursuit of freedom and prosperity. A decade later, we find them in New York City, where Daniel’s dreams of a new life, as promised by the British crown, rapidly crumble, forcing them into the shadowy depths of London.

The plot deftly interweaves themes of survival, treachery, and the brutal realities confronted by those who have fled bondage.

The siblings' odyssey is marked by contrasting moments of hope and despair as they reconcile their aspirations with the grim truths of their new surroundings. The atmosphere is vivid; Cain skillfully paints the bustling yet bleak streets of London, teeming with danger and desperation, most notably in the labyrinthine tunnels beneath Covent Garden, where they meet Elias, an ominous figure embodying the power struggle within this gritty world.

Cain's writing style is both poetic and raw, submerging readers in the emotional landscapes of her characters. Daniel is depicted as fiercely protective yet tormented by his past, while Pearl evolves into a tenacious young woman battling her own fears. The sibling bond is exquisitely portrayed, capturing their connection amidst turmoil. Readers can palpably sense their experiences—their laughter, tears, and relentless quest for liberty.

»The Blackbirds of St. Giles« illuminates a lesser-known chapter in history, seamlessly blending historical facts with captivating storytelling. Cain crafts a poignant examination of identity and resilience against a backdrop of societal bias.

The novel is as enlightening as it is emotionally impactful, leaving readers with a resonant comprehension of the ghosts of the past that continue to haunt the present—a potent reminder of humanity's ongoing pursuit of freedom and dignity.

[Jensen McCorkel · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one started off strong for me. I was intrigued with he story and the freedom given after the MC service in America for the British Army. I liked the the glimpse into the treatment and lives of the so called free blacks in London during the 18th century. The book seems well researched and is written well. With all that said I did start to loose interest and get bored. Maybe it was the amount of characters I had to keep up with I am not sure. I do appreciate the detail into each character and the backgrounds provided. It does add to the imagery of the story. It also helps with the attachments to the characters and their hardships. I will also say that sometimes Daniel frustrated me with his decisions but I am ok with that because I think that made him more real to me and helped show is dedication to Pearl (his sister) and enhanced the hardships they both had to over come.

Over all this was a good and interesting read.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent historical fiction read! Two escaped enslaved siblings, Daniel and Pearl, escape from their plantation in Jamaica, survive the American War of Independence, and arrive to London to seek a fortune that was promised to them only to learn the cruelties, prejudices, and deceit across the ocean. Now homeless without a penny to their name, they must learn to live as outcasts in London’s underground scene and fight for their survival.
This was such a unique look at late 1700’s history that is not often written about. It was interesting to learn of the racial and class prejudice in London at that time. This book is a bit long and it definitely took some time to get into it and build up to the main storyline, but I believe this slow build also helped improve the character and story development to give the story a more immersive feel. I liked both Daniel and Pearl and really felt for both of them throughout the book. The last third of the book is absolutely action-packed and I flew through the ending. The major twist at the end of the book is literally jaw dropping and I did not expect it at all! Overall this is a very enjoyable read that I would recommend, especially if you love historical fiction! Thank you to NetGalley, Lila Cain, and Kensington Publishing|Dafina for the gifted ARC. This is a voluntary and honest review.

[Kali Hollands · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely amazing book. This is historical fiction at it’s finest and why it will always be my favourite genre. The writing pulls you in from the very start and is so immersive and descriptive, you will find yourself lost in the streets of Georgian London ; the poverty and filth amongst the splendor and wealth was captured brilliantly in this book and you can imagine perfectly every character David and Pearl come across. I loved the main characters SO much, written with so much depth and the love between them is so strong throughout this story. It is a book of found family, love and friendship. But what makes this book so important is it captures the horrors of slavery and the racism of this period, it is absolutely devastating and throughout this story you will learn of the Black men who fought for this country, were promised protection and security and once arriving in London, were left with nothing. It is truly such an educational novel and shines a light on all those that suffered during the 18th century. The absolute evilest parts of society are shown, but also so much bravery and love. The storytelling, plot and characters were all so perfect and I’m so sad to have finished this important and incredible novel.

[Mary Fabrizio · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is pretty solid historical fiction in that it feels well researched and has a compelling enough plot. I found a couple of things frustrating though that detracted from my enjoyment. First was the leap from Jamaica to England with so much left uncovered. I suppose this was intentional so the mystery later could be revealed but it really interrupted the tale. The second was Daniel's lack of communicating his plight to those he cares for. Again, I understand this would lend itself to the story later, but it just was maddening to live thru that part of it. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This has the feel of a book that's had plenty of research put in.
I almost felt myself to be in the maze at times.
So caught up was I in the setting, it took me a good while to truly get invested in the characters.
Got there in the end though, and it adds life to the book.
I could not help but cheer for Daniel and Pearl if anything good happened for them.
There's a few surprises in this book, and they're all enjoyable.
Good read.

[Nessa’s Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Okay, history fans and fans of fierce, unyielding characters, this one’s for you! The Blackbirds of St Giles takes us back to 1780 London, a world of dark alleys, endless grit, and the fight for freedom.

Meet Daniel. He fought for the British in the American War of Independence, earned his freedom, and walked away with an inheritance. Sounds like his life should be on the up and up, right? WRONG. London is a brutal place for a man like Daniel. In a twist of fate (or more like a nasty betrayal), he finds himself trapped in the rookeries of St Giles, an area of the city that is as dangerous as it sounds. We're talking dark alleyways, violence, and danger lurking around every corner.

This is where Daniel meets Elias, the cruel ruler of the area, whose power is built on fear. But Elias doesn’t rule alone, he’s got a brotherhood of Black men known as the Blackbirds of St Giles. These men, bound by a shared mission, fight not just for survival, but for the freedom of their people. And Daniel? Well, he’s about to find out that the path to freedom is paved with rebellion and a bit of danger.

What I Loved:

1. Strong, Resilient Characters: Daniel and Pearl aren’t just surviving, they’re fighting for something more. Daniel’s strength, wit, and leadership qualities make him an instant hero, and Pearl is no slouch either. The sibling bond is truly special, and you’ll be rooting for them every step of the way.

2. Action-Packed and Full of Intrigue: The rookeries of St Giles are gritty and suspenseful. It's a world where every corner hides danger, but also, every corner hides the potential for revolution. Daniel, along with the Blackbirds, plans to overthrow Elias’s tyrannical rule and you can feel the tension building with every page.

3. Historical Drama Meets Real Talk : The rich history of this era in London is woven into the narrative beautifully, bringing the real struggles of Black men and women during the 18th century into sharp focus. It’s a page-turner, sure, but it’s also a sobering reminder of the hard-won freedom that so many fought for and the challenges they faced. This book is deep, y’all!

What Could’ve Been Better:

1. A Bit More Character Depth in the Villains : Elias, while cruel, could’ve been given a little more complexity. The book focuses so heavily on Daniel and the Blackbirds, which is awesome, but sometimes, I wish we’d gotten a deeper look into the motivations of the people they’re up against.

2. A Few Pacing Issues : The action is great, but at times the story slows down a bit in the middle. It’s not a huge deal, but it might leave you wishing for a bit more punch during those moments.


The Blackbirds of St Giles is a brilliant mix of historical fiction, rebellion, and personal triumph. It’s gritty, intense, and full of heart-pounding moments. Daniel’s journey from betrayal to freedom is not just a physical one, it’s an emotional and psychological transformation that will have you intrigued from page 1.

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

In The Blackbirds of St Giles, by Lila Cain (pen name of Kate Griffin and Marcia Hutchinson), we meet Daniel – a freed slave and, more recently, a soldier on the British side in the American War of Independence – and his teenage sister Pearl as they travel to London to make a new life for themselves.

However, things don’t turn out as expected. The pair are tricked out of the inheritance that was meant to set them up, and are subsequently reduced to living in the insalubrious underground Maze of St Giles alongside other “Blackbirds” – desperate and destitute people whose plight the city ignores.

In the dank rookeries, Daniel and Pearl must do what they can to survive and move forward, with the help of several good-hearted new friends, and despite the machinations of Elias, an evil man who uses terror to control the district and intensify the suffering of its residents.

The Blackbirds of St Giles is a great read. You might be intimidated by its size at first (nearly 500 pages in hardback), but with so much to discover, and the characters constantly going from crisis to triumph and back again, I was totally hooked, and was left wanting more.

The authors describe every scene in careful detail, so I always had a vivid picture in my head, whether the action was taking place in an underground hovel, an upper-class home, or somewhere in between. Their descriptions also continually appeal to all the senses – well, maybe “appeal” isn’t the right word, considering the smell of eighteenth-century London!

I loved how this book offered something new as a historical novel set in Britain with a majority-Black cast. While there were tens of thousands of Black people in Britain at the time the book is set, when I’ve come across them in novels, they’ve generally been tokenistic household staff, or entertainment for privileged white characters.

It was therefore really interesting to find out how Black people lived and managed to carve out a space for themselves outside of these circumstances, and Daniel and Pearl’s story is just the tip of the iceberg. For the most part – as you might expect – it was a real struggle.

While it was gratifying to see how some of Daniel and Pearl’s new friends had succeeded, I never lost sight of the fact they’d have had to work harder than white people to achieve the same goals, and how precarious their positions were. The one Black character who manages to enter high society does so at great cost, and is still treated as an “exotic” novelty rather than an equal by the company she keeps.

Even though I knew from the outset that Daniel and Pearl’s story would feature a lot of setbacks (it wouldn’t be much of a story otherwise), I nonetheless felt devastated on their behalf when they transpired, and wanted things to come good for them.

I warmed to Pearl more or less instantly – she’s resilient and resourceful (though she shouldn’t have to be), sometimes foolhardy, and more worldly than her brother realises. Daniel, while admirable and often determined, can be frustrating when he keeps things to himself, and therefore blocks people from sympathising with and/or helping him, but a key part of his character trajectory is learning the value of teaming up with others in his position and sharing his problems.

Other memorable characters are Melkie, the larger-than-life Cockney owner of the boxing gym where Daniel trains for his new career as a fighter; Elias, the sadistic, almost pantomime villain who rules the Rookery and puts Daniel in a vulnerable position; and Jen, the rough diamond who proves to be an invaluable friend to the siblings from the moment they arrive in St Giles. In fact, as this story shows time and time again, poor people are consistently willing to share what little they have to help their neighbours survive, while rich people doggedly protect their wealth.

And in case this review makes the book sound very doom-and-gloom, there are some very witty scenes too – even towards the end of the book, when the stakes for Daniel and his comrades are very high indeed!

The Blackbirds of St Giles is addictive, thrilling, and original.