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Thomas Pitt has started a new job as head of Special Branch. Some think he may have been promoted above his capabilities. For his first case he must consider why an Austrian nobleman might be at risk of assassination, and decide what to do about it. Meanwhile, in Dorchester Terrace, an elderly lady with Austrian links dies in suspicious circumstances. Pitt wonders whether the two mysteries might be connected. The story is set at a time when the Austro-Hungarian Empire is beginning to crumble. The dialogue cleverly conveys useful information, including a visit to a library to read about the history of the empire. It is refreshing to be able to learn so painlessly about this period of social change in Europe. One particularly effective source of information is an elderly woman who, earlier in her life, had been active in the politics of the region. She now suffers from dementia and the author is knowledgeable and sympathetic about her condition. The handling of this cruel condition is extremely sensitive and brings out the accompanying vulnerability and fear. It is unusual to see writing that empathises with a character in this way, showing, for example, the damage that can be caused, unseen, by the improper motives of others. As the story progresses the prose becomes easier to read where in one or two places early in the book the sentence construction appears rather long with too many clauses. But things gradually relax and the intricacy of the plot takes over. The pace and the many twists and turns maintain suspense. There is a wide range of characters and their activities provide a very good window onto Victorian England. Some scenes are set in the homes of characters of different ages and backgrounds, others in public places such as exhibitions, or on public transport. There is a sense that each character has a life other than that which is seen in the story. DORCHESTER TERRACE is a stimulating, pleasant read that is both implicitly educative and enjoyable. § Sylvia Maughan is a retired university lecturer, based in Bristol.
Reviewed by Sylvia Maughan, September 2012
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