R E K. (bigstone) - , reviewed Theft of Life (Crowther and Westerman, Bk 5) on + 1440 more book reviews
A pair of wonderful characters, Harriet Westerman, a wealthy young widow, and Gabriel Crowther, brilliant forensic scientist, team once again to solve a murder in 18th century Britain. It's a time when former slaves are beginning to build their own lives.
When a murdered former English owner of a Jamaican sugar plantation is found murdered in a churchyard the manner in which his body is found lead authorities to believe that his murderer might have been an ex-slave. His head is enclosed in a metal mask and he was whipped, punishments commonly used by slave owners to punish slaves. However, upon investigation Westerman and Crowther learn that the man has changed his life hoping to atone for the miseries he inflicted on the men and women he once owned. So, is the murderer really a former slave or someone who feels threatened by the man's changed lifestyle. He had become a most vocal advocate of freeing slaves.
During this period between the American and French Revolutions Britian is struggling with the very issue of slavery. Much has been written about slavery in our country but slavery in Britain has not been as well documented nor publicized.
The historical aspect of the slave trade in Britain and the treatment of the slaves adds such depth to this novel that I found it one of the best in this series. Those opposed have become very vocal while those in support of it fear the loss of their livelihood. Can they afford to pay wages to slaves? Of course, they think not. As the Westerman and Crowther investigate the crime, Crowther is attacked and injured and the novel proceeds without his direct involvement. Yes, I enjoyed this read very much recommend the read to those who love historical mysteries. I thought that this is one of best.
When a murdered former English owner of a Jamaican sugar plantation is found murdered in a churchyard the manner in which his body is found lead authorities to believe that his murderer might have been an ex-slave. His head is enclosed in a metal mask and he was whipped, punishments commonly used by slave owners to punish slaves. However, upon investigation Westerman and Crowther learn that the man has changed his life hoping to atone for the miseries he inflicted on the men and women he once owned. So, is the murderer really a former slave or someone who feels threatened by the man's changed lifestyle. He had become a most vocal advocate of freeing slaves.
During this period between the American and French Revolutions Britian is struggling with the very issue of slavery. Much has been written about slavery in our country but slavery in Britain has not been as well documented nor publicized.
The historical aspect of the slave trade in Britain and the treatment of the slaves adds such depth to this novel that I found it one of the best in this series. Those opposed have become very vocal while those in support of it fear the loss of their livelihood. Can they afford to pay wages to slaves? Of course, they think not. As the Westerman and Crowther investigate the crime, Crowther is attacked and injured and the novel proceeds without his direct involvement. Yes, I enjoyed this read very much recommend the read to those who love historical mysteries. I thought that this is one of best.
