Though set in the early 18th century, this well-written historical thriller will spur you to recognize all the characteristics of today's recent casino banking and financial bubble behavior. It's all happened before....also interesting look at the world of the "city" and the early stock exchange of London, as well as the treatment of jews in 18th century Britain--a topic I had no familiarity with before reading this hard-to-put-down thriller.

I liked the setting and character: Benjamin Weaver, a lapsed Jew and ex-boxer, weaves his way through both seamy and well-off society in 18th century London. The plot, too, was interesting at first: the early days of the stock market and an unsolved murder, possibly related to financial deception. However, the plot dragged after awhile, and it soon became clear that nothing would become clear. Still, I liked the atmosphere: a large cast of scheming, shady ruffians (both wealthy and poor), liberally spiced with violent brawls. Also, glimpses of life in the Jewish community, and depictions of the early stock market - an intricately constructed house of card based on promise and probability but undercut by deceit. In the end, though, I wasn't entirely certain what had happened with the murder plot, nor did I care much.

Somewhat slow moving historical thriller of 18th. century London. But worth the effort as it picks up in the latter half. Period language may hinder some readers. Good insight into the difficulties faced by Jews in English society at that time. Main plot deals with a Jewish ex-boxer turned investigator who is trying to find out if his father's death was an accident or murder. The story takes place during the early years of the English stock market and involves a suspicion of forged investments documents.

paperback please

David Liss writes a solid and compelling historical mystery that contains a unique hero and fascinating historical detail. I highly recommend this for those who like a more literary read.