Dorcas "Darkey" Kelly (d. 1761) and the King of Hell

By Bridget Molloy

Dorcas "Darkey" Kelly (d. 1761) and The King of Hell

In 1760s Dublin, widow Bridget Molloy finds employment at The Maiden Tower, a brothel run by the shrewd and independent Dorcas Kelly. When Dorcas is falsely accused of murdering a shoemaker named Dowling, Bridget witnesses the corruption of Sheriff Luttrell and his allies as they orchestrate a sham trial. Despite evidence of Dowling's survival and Luttrell's personal vendetta against Dorcas-who once carried his child-she is condemned to burn at the stake.

Following the execution, Bridget methodically gathers evidence of Luttrell's crimes, including smuggling operations and his involvement in a young servant girl's death at the Hellfire Club. Disguised as a servant, she infiltrates a Hellfire meeting where Luttrell boasts about eliminating Dorcas, confirming his guilt.

Through strategic channels, Bridget presents evidence to His Majesty's Customs and Archbishop Stone, triggering investigations that lead to Luttrell's downfall. Meanwhile, she ensures Dorcas's true story spreads throughout Dublin, transforming her from criminal to symbol of injustice in popular memory.

Fourteen years later, Bridget reflects from Edinburgh on The Maiden Tower's enduring legacy. The women who once worked there maintain their network of mutual protection across distances, while Dorcas's story has become permanent Dublin folklore-truth persisting despite power's temporary advantage.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0FWZXDDG7
• ISBN13: 9798270614362
• Release Date: October 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 326 Pages
• Weight: 0.96 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.0" x 9.0"