Ms Wendeberg has used historical and scientific fact to produce an emotionally-charged, perspective-based novel.
It is very powerful in both language and thought. Once started, it became a love-hate relationship. The horrors of everyday London of the late 1800's pushed me away, but the writing, the colorful, imperfect characters kept me involved in the story. Though not really a mystery, it still provided a surprise ending that left a "what!" In my mind and eager for more of this great writer.
One delightful addition to the novel is that it is well-written in an age when grammar, punctuation, and a model of English use are sorely lacking. No distractions there.
