Thursday, November 26, 2020

THE DEVIL AND THE DARK WATER, by Stuart Turton

    


Mystery/Thriller -- 5 stars

In 1634, the renowned detective, Samuel Pipps, finds himself in shackles, on a ship bound for Amsterdam and his execution for a crime that is shrouded in secrecy.  Also on board are his assistant, Arent Hayes, and the Governor General with his family and entourage.  It doesn't take long before devilry begins to torment the passengers.  Weird symbols are found, animals are slaughtered, a dead leper appears, and a strange altar is found in the hold.  Then people start dying. With Samuel Pipps locked in a cell, it is up to Arent Hayes to save them all. ----- This is a clever twist on a Sherlock Holmes style mystery where Watson takes the lead.  Well written, highly detailed, fast paced, with clues piled up everywhere until the sudden, logical conclusion is revealed.  Interesting characters abound in this atmospheric, supernatural flavored, period piece.  If you love mysteries, but are looking for something different, look no further.

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