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1933: Private enquiry agent William Garret at your service
Needless Alley
What you need to know before your trail
Birmingham, 1933.
Private enquiry agent William Garrett, a man damaged by a dark childhood spent on Birmingham’s canals, specialises in facilitating divorces for the city’s male elite. With the help of his best friend -charming, out-of-work actor Ronnie Edgerton – William sets up honey traps. But photographing unsuspecting women in flagrante plagues his conscience and William heaves up his guts with remorse after every job.
However, William’s life changes when he accidentally meets the beautiful Clara Morton and falls in love. Little does he know she is the wife of a client – a leading fascist with a dangerous obsession. And what should have been another straightforward job turns into something far more deadly.
Travel Guide
Birmingham 1930s
The author’s trail of Birmingham
Gas Street Basin
Where Queenie reigns, Gas Street Basin was once an industrial hub where coal was delivered to fuel to might of Birmingham’s 1000 trades. Now it’s home to pubs, restaurants and the excellent contemporary art gallery, The Ikon.
Needless Alley
Bombed during the war, it’s not much to look at now. However, walk up this narrow lane and glimpse St Philip’s Cathedral, in all its Georgian glory. Then, turn right and head back down Canon Street – a little belter of a street and much beloved by local photographers.
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
This is where William and Clara had their first date.
The Jewellery Quarter
Home of my imagined Archway Club.
The Electric
Outside New Street Station, The Electric is the oldest working cinema in the UK. William is a film fan and saw the magnificent Marlene Dietrich in ‘The Blue Angel’ here.
Baddesley Clinton
A National Trust house near Knowle, Baddesley Clinton is a personal obsession. However, I shan’t give you any spoilers. Either read Needless Alley to find out or visit Baddesley Clinton. If you see me there, do say hello.
Streetview Maps
A Needless Street
C) White Swan pub
Booktrailer Review
TheBookTrail’s bookreview of Needless Alley Natalie Marlow
BookTrail Boarding Pass: Needless Alley
Destination/Location: Birmingham Author: Natalie Marlow Departure: 1933
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