Customer Reviews

Dr. Sam: Johnson, Detector

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With this book, Lillian de la Torre practically invents the subgenre of historical detective fiction, where the detective is an actual historical figure playing the role of detective in a plausible historical contexts. The nine tales included here are all inspired by historical events of the 18th century, some of which Johnson was personally involved in and some of which a plausible based on Johnson's interests, opinions, and experiences. In this collection, the author gives the historical background for each of the tales. De la Torre, who completed graduate work in the 18th century, writes in the voice of James Boswell, the famous biographer of Johnson. The author has an excellent knowledge of the details of 18th century England and of the lives and works of Boswell and Johnson, who seems a natural as a detective. Although the 18th-century style and historical allusions may put off some readers, this work is a classic of the genre and a real joy for those who love historical fiction.

"The happiest moments of a man's life are those he spends lying in bed in the morning...'tis when lying in bed in the morning...that a man enjoys the blessings of consciousness, without suffering its inconveniences." This keen observation is one of many sprinkled throughout de la Torre's wonderful book, which certainly set the standard for historical mysteries based on actual characters. The book, the first of several to feature that noted lexicographer Dr. Samuel Johnson and his biographer Boswell, was a forerunner in the field of fact-based mystery and is a delightful read. Each short story follows the great man as he applies his supreme powers of "racionization" to solving complex mysteries, from a King's missing ruby ring to the identity of a spectre haunting the home of a friend. Each story is based in some degree on actual events, which make them all the more plausible and interesting. De la Torre demonstrates a broad knowledge of the times as well as of her characters, creating scenarios that are both believable and entertaining. Anyone with a taste for historical mysteries is certain to enjoy this book.