Frederica had been born and brought up in the rural county of Herefordshire, whereas Alver had lived in London for most of his life. During the first year of their marriage, Alver introduces Frederica to the many interesting places and entertainments in London. There are many (true) stories included in this novel, including:
the aristocrat who bet £3,000 on the speed of a raindrop;
the private zoo with a bad-tempered tiger;
why the first shopping arcade was built because of discarded oyster shells;
the mathematical genius who supported his family at the age of 13;
how a river was diverted to re-enact a famous battle;
how to illuminate thousands of lamps at the same time;
and why Lord Jersey never fought a duel to protect his wife’s reputation.
Meanwhile, Frederica and Alver adjust to their new life together, during a very eventful year.