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Were you a rake in 18th century London, you would have no doubt made use of "Harris's List of Covent Garden Ladies". It was a guide to the prostitutes available around Covent Garden, their attractions, talents, and, in some cases, demerits. In the telling of the story of the list and the 3 chief "authors", this books unfolds like an historical biography, rather than a social history of prostitution in London. Interesting, bawdy and tragic. I followed the trail of the compilers as well as the women of the List. Well written, researched and fascinating. A recommended read.