Aristocratic Isabella Waverly wants nothing more than to comfort a woman who has been run over on a London street. With the last of his dying strength, he presses a letter into Bella's hand. The envelope hides a job offer in the kitchen of Buckingham Palace, which gives the hopeful young cook what she desperately wants: an escape from the grip of a lowly servant's life. Isabella arrives at the palace as Helen Barton and can now indulge her passion for cooking. He prepares dishes that delight even Queen Victoria herself, and she is selected to be part of the monarch's entourage to Nice.
But is this what you really want? Even if it means giving up love and family? Will she serve others all her life, while the chance presents itself to live a luxurious and carefree life by the side of an aristocratic husband?
He doesn't have time to think much about these questions, because one day one of the queen's entourage falls ill and dies. Because Bella prepared the royal guest's last dinner, she is suspected of the poisoning. An investigation begins, and everything may be revealed...

The New York Times bestselling author's new Victorian historical novel revolves around a crime mystery, the exciting world of masters and servants, and the everyday life of a beautiful seaside town, and its style captivates the reader.