The Bradford Poisonings

The story

When arsenic enters a batch of humbug sweets, an ordinary trade becomes a catastrophe for Bradford families. William Hardaker, remembered as Humbug Billy, finds his name bound to the tragedy.

The investigation follows the chain of mistakes and responsibilities behind the disaster. Through the people affected, the novel explores accountability and the human cost of inadequate safeguards.

Historical background

Inspired by the Bradford sweets-poisoning disaster of 1858 and its place in the history of food safety.