DARK THREADS OF VENGEANCE by William Savage

4.5 out of 5 stars

18th Century Murder Mystery set in Norfolk

On Amazon UK HERE
On Amazon.com HERE
On Goodreads HERE

Reviewed by me as a member of Rosie Amber's Review Team
 

The second book, a stand alone, in the Ashmole Foxe series.  Foxe is an charismatic and witty businessman living in 18th century Norwich, a sociable and inquisitive chap with his finger in many pies, who is often called upon by those in power in the city to help solve crimes.  This time, it is the murder of Joseph Morrow, a devoutly religious and widely disliked banker, and owner of a yarn business. 

The story begins with his murder, an excellent start.  This is the fourth book I have read by William Savage, and, as before, I enjoyed the descriptions of the Norfolk of 250 years ago; the domestic detail is well-placed, and of interest to anyone who wishes to know more about how people lived in this time.  The author's strength is his witty dialogue and characterisation, and in this book both lived up to my expectations.  There is a marvellous part when Foxe, recently depressed by circumstances in his private life, dresses extravagantly one morning to lift his spirits.  On entering his bookshop, he imagines his business partner's surprised expression to be one of awe at his fine appearance, though the reader learns that the reason for her raised eyebrows is that she wonders if he has taken leave of his senses, to be dressed in such ridiculous finery at this time in the morning.  Later, another associate described him as a 'strutting popinjay'.  I loved that!

I found the beginning of the book a little exposition-heavy, as Foxe's circumstances are explained to the reader; although this book is a stand alone, better description is given about him in his first book, The Fabric of Murder, but it is not necessary to read it first.  On occasion I found the intricacies of the plot a little repetitive and long-winded, but, as always with this author's books, I am just thinking 'hmm, this is going on a bit' when it perks up.  When this happens, it's great; the good in his books is very, very good indeed. 

Recommended for all who like clever, light mystery fiction of this period, and who like to learn something of the history, too.

Reviews for William Savage's three other books can be found HERE, with Amazon links