Arrowood and the Thames Corpses

This is the best of the three Arrowood novels so far by a country mile. It almost seems imposible to cram so much local detail, individual characterisation, and plot development into one novel. The pace hardly ever lets up, and the story is thoroughly gripping.Arrowood - flawed genius - and Barnett - emotionally vulnerable tough-guy - are a fascinating pair. This novel is really about Barnett, but you've got to love Arrowood's sister, Ettie. The novel is peopled by individuals struggling to make an honest or dishonest living in a grim, graphically-described urban environment. This is indeed a world away from the purlieus of Holmes and Watson.A fine novel by a talented writer. Recommended.

Once again Mick Finlay has pulled out of the bag a gripping psychological thriller set in the late 19th century. His expression of the characters' personal traumas is stupendous. Each of his wonderful Arrowood series has dealt with elements of the human experience that deeply resonate with modern life, whilst remaining true to the classic period setting. The characters are human, flawed and full of heart and he does not shy away from the rawness and grit of Victorian London.

Another good read following The Murder Pit. The author, it seems, tells us what life in the slums and for the not well off would have been like. The characters are filling out as the books progress. Mr A, gets results despite himself, Mr B, a loyal helper with a chequered past, Ettie, now a mother, scolding her brother, Mr A, in a gentle way, and Mr A's ex wife being brought into the picture near the end...all makes for hopefully another good read in the next book.

I am bereft that I have to wait until July for the next book in this stunning series. Beautifully written with complex plots and characters. Unputdownable! The revelation at the end was very moving. Cannot get enough of Arrowood, Barnett et al. TV series please.

Love this series for its searing reality blended with the rough charm and side-swiping humour of the period. If Victorian London wasn't actually like this then it should have been. Suppose it helps that I've lived and worked in many areas mentioned - Vauxhall, Lewisham, Kennington etc. Can't wait for the next instalment.