FICTION

The Fatal Flame

by Lyndsay Faye
Putnam. May 2015. 480p. ISBN 9780399169489. $26.95; ebk. ISBN 9780698155947. F
COPY ISBN
In 1840s New York, star copper (aka police detective) Timothy Wilde investigates a string of suspicious fires. He is a bit leery, given that his parents were killed in a fire, and he has the burn scars to prove it. He is also thrown by the sudden reappearance of the love of his life, Mercy Underhill. Add to the mix some corporate greed and a hotly contested election for city alderman, and it's no wonder Tim's investigation, and maybe his life, is in jeopardy.
VERDICT While this is the third entry in Faye's trilogy (after The Gods of Gotham and Seven for a Secret), it could easily stand alone. Her use of period language effectively conveys the grit and flavor of the times, but can be a barrier to the reader's understanding, even with a handy glossary of flash terminology (criminals' slang). For the patient reader fond of historical mysteries, this is a rewarding tale of loyalty and courage. [See Prepub Alert, 11/25/14.]
Reviewed by Laurel Bliss, San Diego State Univ. Lib. , Apr 15, 2015
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

FICTION

Secret Fling with the Billionaire
by Douglas, Michelle
FICTION

Holiday Under Wraps
by Mettner, Katie
FICTION

Tracking Down the Lawman’s Son
by Fossen, Delores
FICTION

Cold Case Protection
by Helm, Nicole
FICTION

One Waltz with the Viscount
by Martin, Laura
FICTION

When Cinderella Met the Duke
by Williams, Sophia
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?