The Chiswick Villain, 1834: James Ashley and Moll Raby set out to improve their lives and fortunes by villainy, robbery and deceit in Chiswick, London

The Chiswick Villain is a novel written by Barbara O'Sullivan and is based on Victorian true crime. The villain is James Ashley who was born into poverty and squalor in Whitechapel, London, who becomes adept at petty theft at a very young age. His father was also a villain and James, at the age of 21, decides that his future also lies in the field of crime. In order to better himself James sets out to commit a street robbery against a young woman and is caught and promptly conveyed to Newgate Prison in London. Whilst awaiting trial he meets up with some notoriously hardened London criminals, one of whom is Moll Raby. Once released they form a formidable pair who set off to seek their fortunes in the affluent area of London known as Chiswick. After a series of well planned criminal acts their lives are considerably improved. After a twist of fate there is a dramatic change of circumstance, but where they ever caught and brought to justice. Barbara O'Sullivan Author