Absolutely the best historical fiction I have read for years! Sorry, I won't be trading this for some time - must read it at least three times. JMG is totally compelling (best of his to date). Rich, dense, evocative, mezmerizing proze. And what a tale! Dickens meets Jack the Ripper. No scintillating society, no love story, no ravishing hero/ine, no heartwarming successes. And even if you read the last page first, it will give nothing away. Massage your tired grey matter with this gruesome mystery (some ghastly murders described, watch out) and stay up too late just to read one more page. Then sigh with disappointment to reach the end, but with satisfaction at a tale well told. As you say your prayers, ask for volume 2.

Share/Like this Review?