Murder as a Fine Art
230
Novel • Fiction
•
Horror & Suspense•
British LiteratureLondon • 1850s
2013
Adult
18+ years
Set in Victorian-era London, David Morrell's historical novel Murder as a Fine Art (2013) follows 69-year-old essayist Thomas De Quincey, famous for his Confessions of an English Opium-Eater, as he and his daughter Emily pursue a serial killer inspired by the 1811 Radcliffe Highway murders. Alongside complex characters and intricate plotting, the story weaves in themes of addiction, historical crime, and sociopolitical intrigue. This book contains scenes of graphic violence and substance abuse.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Gritty
Challenging
10,221 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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David Morrell's Murder as a Fine Art is lauded for its meticulous historical detail and gripping narrative reminiscent of 19th-century Gothic thrillers. The protagonist, based on real-life Thomas De Quincey, captivates readers. However, some critics find the pacing uneven. Overall, it’s praised as an engaging blend of historical fiction and crime.
A reader who enjoys Murder as a Fine Art by David Morrell would likely be captivated by historical thrillers and Victorian-era settings. This book appeals to fans of intricately plotted mysteries reminiscent of Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes series and those who appreciated the atmospheric suspense of The Alienist by Caleb Carr.
10,221 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
David Morrell, the author of Murder as a Fine Art, is widely known for creating the character John Rambo in his debut novel, First Blood.
The novel is set in Victorian London and was inspired by Thomas De Quincey's influential essay "On Murder Considered as one of the Fine Arts," which delves into the philosophical aspects of murder.
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Murder as a Fine Art meticulously incorporates real historical figures and events of the 19th century, blending fact with fiction to enhance the authenticity of its setting.
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230
Novel • Fiction
•
Horror & Suspense•
British LiteratureLondon • 1850s
2013
Adult
18+ years
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