What finally prompted me to write this review was a meeting last night of my book club, which discusses mysteries each month at Powell’s book store. The book up for discussion was Bruce Alexander’s first in this series, Blind Justice. I sat back and listened as the other members of the group eagerly repeated bits and pieces they enjoyed most and nodded vigorously as others spoke. One reader said she was delighted because the writing reminded her of Charles Dickens. Another was fascinated by the historical details.

One thing they all had in common was that they were honestly surprised they liked the book so much. All said they would read the rest of the series. The book group is all-female, a bunch of voracious, adventurous readers. More than likely they were put off by the somber covers of Alexander’s mysteries, the non-titillating titles, and the back cover blurbs which, while accurate, do nothing to draw a first-time reader who may have just finished reading a cozy.

And so, although in my reviews of Alexander’s previous books I have raved about the fine writing and the wonderful depiction of the era, this time I have a different slant on this series. Read it for the wonderful surprise that awaits you.

--Diane Gotfryd