4 out of 4 stars
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"The Code for Killing" by William Savage is the second book in the Dr Adam Bascom Mysteries featuring the 18th-century doctor, Adam Bascom. I have not read the first book in the series, but I had no trouble following the story.
There's nothing I like more than a good historical mystery and this one fit the bill perfectly with mysterious deaths, intrigue, and red herrings aplenty to keep the pages turning. It is set in Georgian era England, and I think all the intricacies of social life at that time are very well portrayed. I haven't read many books set in that period, so this book was pleasantly refreshing.
Dr Adam Bascom is back in another out-of-the-mill mystery. After his last adventure, Adam is bored with his life as a country physician. When the enigmatic Mr. Wicken from the Alien office contacts him again, Adam soon finds himself deeply involved in the world of espionage and revolutionary war. This time around Adam is called to Norwich to examine one of Wicken’s men, Sanford. Sanford has been assaulted and lost his memory as a result. These are troubled times (social unrest, privateers, spying, and the upcoming war with France), so it is crucial that Sanford will regain his faculties. The plot thickens when secret government papers go missing, soon followed by two mysterious deaths. With the help of his two of his friends, the apothecary Peter Lassimer and his mother’s companion, Sophia LaSalle, Adam must unmask a murderer and unravel the "code for killing".
I won't say anything else about the plot. Suffice to say, it's got all the marks of a great mystery. Murder, suspicion, truths, and lies abound! The narrative keeps you in suspense until the very end. It isn't the edge-of-your-seat suspense, but suspense is nicely maintained until the rather reveal at the end.
The characters, setting, and dialogue are realistic and maintained a genuine Georgian feel throughout the novel. The presentation of the world is excellent and the reader is swept into that world and it becomes a satisfying reality. The author does a tremendous job capturing the personalities of his characters. Sophia and Adam are a delightful team and I enjoyed the banter between the two.
The author has written an elegant and intelligent mystery that keeps you interested from beginning to end. I loved the writing and the way the story unfolded before my very eyes. Interwoven within this exciting tale are themes of friendship, loyalty, compassion, betrayal, greed, and other insightful messages. The writing style is truly unique and well-crafted. Written in the tradition of atmospheric Georgian noir novels, it is rich in period detail and sinister intrigue. The writing brings all the characters to life right along with the period.
The author writes with panache, imparting a period correct voice to his work. There are plenty of interesting historical details to draw the reader into the story, but not too many as to tire the reader. The mystery within the pages of this excellent book is solidly developed and compelling. I loved the book and can't praise this book enough. I happily give the book 4 out of 4 stars and recommend it as an outstanding read for fans of the genre. If you are looking for something with a lot of panache, look no further! This novel was wonderfully unique, and without a doubt the best book I have read in the genre!
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The Code for Killing
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I am going to take a look at the first book in this series. "The author writes with panache"....what a great line!
