What do You think about Murder In Grub Street (1996)?
A sensational opening to the book finds a seemingly mad poet with a blood stained axe in his hands at the scene of a triple murder in Grub Street. It appears to be an open and shut case but Sir John Fielding, the blind magistrate of the Bow Street Court, has his doubts.Aiding by his young assistant, Jeremy (who relates the tale), he sets out to find out the truth of the matter. He calls on one of the literary giants of the day, Dr Samuel Johnson, who adds his wisdom to the investigation. Then, once a strange religious sect, the Brethren of the Spirit, appear running amok in Covent Garden Sir John's attention is brought to bear on them.In an exciting, lively tale, which admirably captures the feel and turbulent times of the period, Sir John and his allies finally unmask the true perpetrators of the crime and dispense suitable justice.Meanwhile Sir John finds romance, marries and with his lady wife he sets up a charity, 'The Magdalene House for Penitent Prostitutes'!
—Gerry
Murder in Grub Street is I think, the first Sir John Fielding mystery, and also my first. Fielding is blind and depends on others to physically assist, but his brilliant mind sees all despite his handicap. I love the era and setting of this historical mystery series, Georgian England, rich with texture, politics, social issues. Until writing this snippet, I'd not realized that Sir John Fielding really did live from 1721-1780, really was blind and really was a Bow Street Magistrate. There's plenty to write about with this true hero of England, and I can't wait to read the rest of the Sir John Fielding mysteries, and also the non-fiction that gave birth to the fictionalized character.Thanks to my friend Mary F. for sharing her stack of these Bruce Alexander mysteries, and for being so patient, waiting for me to find out how much I'd enjoy them. --Ashland Mystery
—Ashland Mystery Oregon
This is the second book in the Sir John Fielding series.Ezekiel Crabbe a publisher, his wife, two sons and two apprentices are viciously murdered in their Grub Street place of work. A man, bloodied and dazed is found standing over the bodies with an axe and a blood spattered night shirt. Sir John Fielding and his assistant Jeremy are called to the residence to investigate. The accused man seems to have three different personalities. And a fervent religious sect has taken up residence in Covent Garden preaching their own beliefs and causing some disturbance.A good tale but not as enjoyable as the first book.
—Paula Dembeck
