While we get this blog rolling, we hope to hear from you! We love to read recommendations so that we know what to spy for on our buying trips.
As for us, the best book we have read lately was:
The Truth of All Things by Kieran Shields
Sure, it followed some of the 19th century detective tropes: peculiar, savant detective with heightened abilities of observation and a more emotionally in tune sidekick, but I still found this murder mystery so engaging because it takes place in 1892 Portland. As a resident of Portland who knows little of its history, I felt this book helped me grow my appreciation for this city. Shields does a fabulous job helping the reader envision Portland of the past while weaving well-researched history into the plot of the murder mystery. It was obvious that Shields grew up in Portland because his focus on landmarks is incredibly detailed, unlike other authors who lazily rely on references to idyllic bits and pieces of Maine to convey mood based on stereotypes. The reader enjoys traveling between places like Portland Observatory, Cushing Island, and more. Admirably, Shields took his research further than just the setting. The clues in the murder point to the study of witchcraft and Shields makes a direct connection between Portland and the Salem Witch Trials. The most important, bit of research involves the development of the main characters. The savant detective, Perceval Grey, gets a more unique backstory than most Sherlockian protagonists since he is half-Abenaki (Wabanaki). Lean, Grey’s partner, witnesses Grey face undo criticism for his background which is only ramped up when the killer is initially thought to be “an Indian.” Like Sherlock, Grey’s detached manner and hyper-focus helps him to rise above the bigots. If you like the comfortable rhythm of old mysteries, but would like to feel a deeper attachment to the setting and essential plot elements, definitely grab this for a summer read!