The Mermaid and Mrs. Hancock by Imogen Hermes Gowar

When a merchant learns that one of his Captains traded his ship for a curiosity he can't believe it but then sees the power and money to be made from showcasing his mummified mermaid. His fortune assured he is then approached by a high-class madam who wants to rent the mermaid in an attempt at setting her house apart from the other establishments. Mr. Hancock cannot say no to the income this little venture will bring in but is put off by the type of establishment. One of the more refined women there begins to flirt with Mr. Hancock seeing him for the benefactor she needs to keep her lavish lifestyle going. She jokingly demands that Mr. Hancock find her a mermaid as well and the dutifully lovesick man complies. The language feels authentic and the story blends together not only the wealthy London society's fascination with curiosities but also the interesting world of the well-off and their relationships. The symbolism of the mythical sea sirens and the Courtesans creates a believable historical gem of a debut.