Scan barcode
A review by hsg
Murder by the Book: The Crime That Shocked Dickens's London by Claire Harman
5.0
Victorian True Crime + Reception History of a “Bad Boy” Novel
The plot of W. H. Ainsworth’s “bad boy” Victorian crime novel, Jack Sheppard, becomes key to the events surrounding the murder of an elderly Mayfair Lord by his young Swiss manservant in 1840’s London. Harman’s excellent research and keen ability to bring early Victorian England to life reminds her modern readers of the deep cultural impact a sensational novel can have in the legal system and in the court of public opinion. Harman’s work will fascinate readers with the story of a sordid murder, but book-lovers will relate to the lingering spell a well told tale casts upon the community of readers.
The plot of W. H. Ainsworth’s “bad boy” Victorian crime novel, Jack Sheppard, becomes key to the events surrounding the murder of an elderly Mayfair Lord by his young Swiss manservant in 1840’s London. Harman’s excellent research and keen ability to bring early Victorian England to life reminds her modern readers of the deep cultural impact a sensational novel can have in the legal system and in the court of public opinion. Harman’s work will fascinate readers with the story of a sordid murder, but book-lovers will relate to the lingering spell a well told tale casts upon the community of readers.