All the stories in this book are pulled from True Detective, so the writing of each story tends toward the sensational, but the cases are fascinating none the less. Could have done with less typos and an introduction from the editor as to why these partcular stories were chosen, a brief history of children and violence...something.
It seems odd to say what a fun read this is, considering it's about a murderer for profit, but, fun really is the only word I can use. Told in a light and jaunty style of reportage this book outlines the life and crimes of Thomas Griffiths Waineright. Waineright thought himself a gentleman and really did hobnob with the literati of the time, and Dickens saw him in his cell in Newgate Prison, and years later wrote a short story based on an aspect of this case. Really, a quick and fun read!
An unbelievable tale of a real life art thief, who is unlike any art thief you could imagine. Stealing in broad daylight from occupied museums, auction houses, art faires and churches simply to admire the art. Not to fence it and make money. Reading about his crimes is truly extraordinary. Finkel's way of presenting the information without judgement is an amazing feat of reporting and writing.
I'm pretty sure that I've read this book a long, long time ago, becahuse the short mysteries were very familiar. Regardless, theses shorts really showcase Sayers' mastery of the mystery genre. Brilliantly plotted and inventive with her signature wit these are the perfect introduction to two of her greatest characters. Lord Peter Whimsey and Montague Egg couldn't be more different yet the are both perfectly suited for amateur sleuthing. Lord Peter is the more well know, but Mony Egg is my favorite. How she ties in his job as a traveling salesman to his ability to sniff out clues is deliciously clever. I highly recommend this collection.
It took a bit for me to get into this story, but I think that was more making the mental switch from the previous book I read which was set in 1953 Hollywood, to this one which is set in 1980s Japan. A twisted set of mysteries, beautiful settings, fascinating insight into Japanese customs and a lot of sly wit made this a really fun read.
God I Love this series. The third in the Archer series, Dream Town takes place in 1953 Hollywood, with all of the glitz, glam, fakery and back-stabbing you'd expect, plus Baldacci's richly detailed characters and superbly plotted mysteries. A fantastic read!
