Historian and filmmaker Jack Jewers is set to release his highly anticipated second historical novel, Seething Lane, on 3 September 2026. Published by Moonflower Books, the atmospheric thriller brings infamous 17th-century diarist Samuel Pepys back to life, plunging him into a cold-blooded murder investigation at the heart of London’s nascent theatre world during the brutal winter of 1670.
The narrative cleverly intertwines meticulous historical research with a gripping mystery, charting Pepys' investigation from the glamorous, politically charged world of royal mistresses to the newly opened Theatre Royal Drury Lane. The novel features a vibrant cast of real historical figures, including the pioneering playwright Aphra Behn and the celebrated comedic actress Nell Gwyn, who was preparing for a scandalous return to the stage.
Jewers’ research shines a fascinating light on the physical and cultural fabric of Restoration London. The book celebrates Theatre Royal Drury Lane, the world’s oldest theatre in continuous use. Originally opened by King Charles II in 1663, the iconic venue survived four complete rebuilds, royal affairs, and a recent £60 million restoration by current owner Andrew Lloyd Webber. It was the birthplace of the British national anthem and the traditional pantomime, though in Pepys’ day, the structure was so open to the elements that the diarist once noted having to leave a performance due to a severe hailstorm.
The book also explores the profound impact of the King’s royal mistresses on London's architecture. Nell Gwyn’s famed residence at 79 Pall Mall remains the only property on that street not owned by the Crown Estate. Other historic properties featured include Twickenham’s Marble Hill House, built for Henrietta Howard, and Chiswick’s Walpole House, gifted to Barbara Villiers.
Furthermore, the title honors Seething Lane, the historical site of the Navy Office where Pepys kept his lodgings. It was here that Pepys famously buried his wine and prized Parmesan cheese to protect them from the Great Fire of 1666, and briefly housed a "tame" lion gifted to him by the English consul in Algiers.
