Welcome to Litsy!

This is a fascinating case for lovers of true crime and Victorian London. McKay does an excellent job of painting a backdrop of a sinister, crime ridden city. I especially loved the ending, with the description of the raucous crowds at the gallows. What a time to be alive!

I‘d love to hear the opinions of others who have read this, and whether you agree with the author‘s conclusions. #netgalley

Arthur Conan Doyle's name is really just a hook, his role is very slight. Nevertheless this is an atmospheric and detailed look at a brutal Victorian crime, a society in flux and a legal system in need of reform. McKay rightly casts significant doubt on the unconvincing verdict but thr case against his own suspect is laughably thin. If this is "the case ACD couldn't solve" it's clear McKay couldn't either! Interesting but uneven.

Oh dear, Mr McKay. It's NICODEMUS Boffin who is "newly enriched" and John HARMON whose death allows him to inherit the wealth. Go back and read Our Mutual Friend again. A shocking lapse, right @KVanRead? ?

Ooh just spotted this in WH Smith looks good. 'Enjoy' an historical true crime story like Mr Briggs' Hat and The Suspicions of Mr Whicher. #SherlockHolmes #truecrime