A London Apprentice

An Eighteenth-Century Romp Around Decadent Covent Garden

By: Judy Graham

Narrated by: Judy Graham

A London Apprentice is a fast moving, sometimes bawdy, story set in 1726.

The underbelly of London is dramatic, with eccentric and theatrical characters creating situations of surprise and adventure.

Amongst the humor and sparkle of this story, the telling of it requires some mature themes and adult situations, theatrical though they may be.

Innocent Fanny Tomlinson, becomes destitute and homeless when her mother dies. Her only relative is Aunt Marie in London, to whom she will apprentice. Leaving all that is familiar, her first encounter of the city is an execution at Tyburn. Arriving safely at the Swan Inn, she is soon abducted into the dangerous underworld of 18th-century London. However, she is befriended by sideshow performers.

Fanny is intelligent, but to survive she must absorb the energy of London. With every step towards her desire for independence, events happen that challenge her principles. Will her association with villains and outcasts destroy her or make her stronger?

Unknown to Fanny, she carries a secret, which will only be revealed if she is worthy.

From slum garrets, gaudy brothels, and molly houses to the bewitching Theatre Royal, Fanny collects colourful friends and acquaintances, whose actions could teach her independence. Will she be brave enough to become a true citizen of London?

The 18th-century was a different world. Life for a vulnerable young woman was very precarious, having to face situations that today are unacceptable. However, the dangers Fanny encounters still remain relevant in the 21st century.

You can follow Fanny’s footsteps by studying John Roche’s London map of 1746.

©2019 Judith Carter (P)2019 Judith Carter