ISBN: 0-399-14923-6 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com
The plot, complicated with ugly Colonial politics, is moderately intriguing, but the solid characters and colorful background of historical London make this novel truly satisfying.
Reviewed by David on May 06, 2005
Genre: Mystery (Police Procedural, Historical)
Synopsis: The blind Sir Fielding, Magistrate of the Bow Street Court in 18th Century London is asked to solve a brutal robbery. However, the object of the robbery is shrouded in state history, and soon Sir John, and his young assistant Jeremy Proctor understand that they are being used in a political struggle.
Full Review: An interesting look at English politics in the years preceeding the American revolution, as well as featuring the colorful figure of Ben Franklin, makes for an interesting plot. However, aside from politics, the investigation, with its mix of suspense and mystery, is just competent. However, the continuous characters are skilled at engaging the reader's sympathy, and that combined with the slightly exotic and rich background of London in the Eighteenth Century makes this a very enjoyable novel.
Copyright: 2002
Series Name: Sir John Fielding Mysteries
Overall: 6; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 6; Style: 6; World-building: 6.5; Originality: 6.5;
G. P. Putnam's Sons, 2002, Cloth, 274 pages
ISBN: 0-399-14923-6 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com