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Not bad, although not exactly a popular social history type book. This is mainly an architectural survey of the period with some social history thrown in. I wouldn't say it is as accessible as some books covering the period, and as some reviewers have noted it does seem to list quite a few people at the beginning. I think it's worth persevering though, as I found it an interesting survey with some well chosen illustrations. I haven't read the Kindle version, but I would imagine it would be better to read this in the original hardcover considering the illustrations.
Compared to The Ghost Hunters I found this one a bit muddled at times. Credit to the author for a fresh perspective on the mystery, and for the use of Welsh locations and history, but maybe a clearer plot with less of a sense of throwing every type of supernatural experience into the mix.
I love this book so much I want to study it and re-read it to pick up on all the nuances I've missed. One of those great books that is both literary and readable. It has great descriptions of the jungle, a good plot with the element of the unexpected and well-written characters who develop throughout the story.
It took a while to get into, but it didn't disappointment, especially as a classic sensation novel. Stolen jewels! Mysterious Indians! Opium fiends! Peculiar doctor's assistants with shady pasts! Love a bit of Wilkie. I thought the multiple narrative voices worked well and there were some excellent characters. Best of all, the speculation the reader can indulge in about the things that are not explained in the story, like what the hell is wrong with Ezra Jennings?
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