Set in New York in the late 1800's Caleb Carr's book ranks as the best I have read so far. And that's not a distinction given lightly. His book proved to me that a novel could be exciting, compelling and at the same time full of texture. Texture because of the way he writes suspending the reader into a world of facts and fiction - his descriptions of New York in the period are accurate and add the right amount of sleaze and menace to the story, and his weaving in of the fictional characters is masterful. You care deeply about them and you are a willing participant along on their journey to discover a serial murderer of young male prostitutes, a case the police officially want no part of. The team given the task is highly eclectic and diverse, and they go about building a psychological profile of the killer in order to find him. Writing this only makes me want to read it again. It is so rich in text, turns and detail a second reading is almost necessary.

I read this book after a John Grisham novel and as much as I enjoy Grisham the comparison in content was remarkable. I have given to the book to a range of people and ages and all but one has loved it. I have also recommended it to many others. It is a book that requires attention and I will admit for the first few pages I wasn't sure whether I was going to stick with it - but do stick with it - most won't be disappointed.

I also read the sequel Angel of Darkness and it was still good but didn't have the pure magic of The Alienist.



Recommended: Yes