Okay, so you have to like a book where the main character is basically a magician in a suit and tie. Not a literal magician, but one who makes money and connections appear out of thin air. That's Davenport Dunn in Davenport Dunn, Just Another Man Hustling in 1800s London (or something like that). He's the guy everyone wants at their dinner party because he's fun, smart, and always knows the best investment.

The Story

This second volume kicks off when Dunn's biggest business deal starts to wobble. There are questions about his past, and powerful people have turned against him—not because they hate him, but because they're scared of him. A shady character from his past, who knows too much, shows up to make trouble. At the same time, his only true friend, a woman who seems to know who he really is, edges him toward danger. You’re basically watching a chess game where everyone thinks they’re playing, but maybe they're just pieces. It's about secrets and betrayals that feel super modern—like, someone in investment banking stealing millions through a shell company type of modern. The language is old but the drama is timeless.

Why You Should Read It

Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to care this much. Old novels can feel dry sometimes—like a textbook on hats. But Charles Lever writes with such energy. Dunn is a trickster you can’t look away from, even while you're rooting for him to mess up just a little bit. The fun part is seeing every small choice blow up into a huge problem. You feel like a detective, spotting hints that Dunn is lying, but knowing he might also be telling some truth. There’s also some sharp commentary on class and ambition that hit me hard. Like, not to get heavy, but in a world where everyone seems fake and money rules everything, who can you trust? The book asks that without ever feeling preachy. It just makes you gossip about the characters like they’re TV stars.

Final Verdict

If you love historical novels but hate when they drag on about farming equipment or what shoes people wore, yes, pick this up. It’s for mystery lovers, fans of The Count of Monte Cristo, or anyone who likes hero-villains like Walter White or Jordan Belfort. It has that same thrill of watching close-ups of bad decisions. It’s also totally readable at more than 150 years old. The language is snappy, the story punches. Doesn’t feel like a chore—a good old book that feels like hanging out with a sharp, gossipy friend. I recommend it to anyone who sides with charming rogues.

Seriously, pop open some tea, pretend you’re in a swanky London club, and let Dunn trick your socks off. You won’t regret the ride.