The Way of All Flesh

This was a re-read in preparation for the next installment so I was less involved in the ‘whodunnit' being, as they say, in the know. Instead I enjoyed just losing myself in this portrayal of Victorian Edinburgh. For all the all the death and darkness the city is vividly alive.
The true historical details were initially discovered during Dr Haetzman's studies for her masters in the history of medicine. These incidents and characters are seamlessly integrated into the fiction, giving it credence.
Most fascinating, for me, was the way females were depicted. Strong and inspiring, flourishing despite the obstacles of the era. I look forward to seeing what Sarah accomplishes next.
Overall, a great historical novel, an intriguing mystery with the dark humour to be expected of Brookmyre.
Finally, it is a beautiful book with its ex libris stamp and illustrated drop caps it is a pleasure to look at as well as read.

I was attracted to this by the Chris Brookymre connection. It's very different from those novels (there's a lot less swearing, for a start), but it's still a good read. It's a very atmospheric book. The historical setting is well evoked, and it switches easily between the class divisions rampant in society at this time. The medical element of the story comes across as very authentic (not that surprising seeing as the other author, Marisa Haetzman, has a Masters in the history of medicine), and some of the descriptions of nineteenth century labour and associated problems are genuinely horrific. The actual crime element is maybe backgrounded a little too much and wrapped up a tad too easily, but it's a price I'm willing to pay for the atmosphere and characterisation. More volumes are promised and the central three characters could become a great series team.