Dickens' first historical novel is set against the famous No Popery riots instigated by Lord George Gordon in 1780. Prejudice and intolerance are woven into the mysterious tale of a long unsolved murder and a forbidden romance Provides an account of the 'No Popery' riots that were instigated by Lord George Gordon in 1780, and terrorised London for days. This novel tells the tale of a long unsolved murder, and a romance that combines forbidden love, passion, treachery and heroism.