The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple: A Novel

”This absolute gem of a novel sparkles with creativity."--Booklist starred review

It is 1903, and Lily Temple is a beautiful silent-film actress who spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera. But beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit, a murky past, and a tantalizing secret.

Underground investigator to the wealthy, Peter Driscoll has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire that has been missing for years--and which Lily happens to be wearing beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and unravel the mystery, Peter employs the enchanting actress’s help on a case.

But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it becomes that he needs her even more than she needs him.

"This is a fascinating look at silent film, the power of story, and God’s pursuit of lost children."--Library Journal

"Rich with biblical allusions . . . Readers will be kept guessing through the many twists and turns."--Publishers Weekly

From the Back Cover

In the search for the truth, the line between fact and fiction is beginning to fall out of focus

It is 1903, and Lily Temple is a beautiful silent-film actress who spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera. But beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit, a murky past, and a tantalizing secret.

Underground investigator to the wealthy, Peter Driscoll has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire that has been missing for years--and which Lily happens to be wearing beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and unravel the mystery, Peter employs the enchanting actress’s help on a case.

But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it becomes that he needs her even more than she needs him.


“Joanna Davidson Politano brings Edwardian England to life. Romance, mystery, and clever twists and turns will keep readers turning pages until they reach the very satisfying ending. Well-written and highly recommended!"--Carrie Turansky, bestselling author of The Legacy of Longdale Manor