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Yes, I know this is covered in another thread http://forum.casebook.org/showthread.php?t=548
but it is a bit buried with such a cryptic title...so here's a new one!
I bought this book at Heathrow on my way back from London this weekend, and I must say I wasn't disappointed. For anyone who hasn't read it, it's a really easy read: I managed it in a six hour flight. For those of you who have read it, didn't you think the McCarthys come off as being very strange? Little Steve (who later married Marie K.) seems like a bit of a candidate for some dodgy murders of his own, no? And did I read that sentence right about his daddy setting him up for a bit of a 'first go' with MJK? And if MJK was referred to Millers Court after her previous tenancy over the Highway, presumably on the basis that JMcC was letting the places knowingly to 'working girls,' is it unreasonable to suppose that he would at least have someone keeping half an eye out for comings (sorry
) and goings of the business variety?
Anyhow, a good read all round, and certainly not just for the JtR stuff. The research appears to be thorough but the writing style is light and smooth. Wouldn't have minded its being a little heftier, but it's a great introductory read not just to the street but to the area in general.
Anyone else have thoughts on it now they've had chance to read and digest?
but it is a bit buried with such a cryptic title...so here's a new one!
I bought this book at Heathrow on my way back from London this weekend, and I must say I wasn't disappointed. For anyone who hasn't read it, it's a really easy read: I managed it in a six hour flight. For those of you who have read it, didn't you think the McCarthys come off as being very strange? Little Steve (who later married Marie K.) seems like a bit of a candidate for some dodgy murders of his own, no? And did I read that sentence right about his daddy setting him up for a bit of a 'first go' with MJK? And if MJK was referred to Millers Court after her previous tenancy over the Highway, presumably on the basis that JMcC was letting the places knowingly to 'working girls,' is it unreasonable to suppose that he would at least have someone keeping half an eye out for comings (sorry
) and goings of the business variety?Anyhow, a good read all round, and certainly not just for the JtR stuff. The research appears to be thorough but the writing style is light and smooth. Wouldn't have minded its being a little heftier, but it's a great introductory read not just to the street but to the area in general.
Anyone else have thoughts on it now they've had chance to read and digest?
It is a wonderful book! It is like a well-made fruitcake, to use a holiday metaphor. Not a dry bit in it, and chock-full of only the best and tastiest morsels. From the very earliest history, it is fascinating, and being a map enthusiast, I liked seeing that odd trapezoid of land morph through the centuries with a kaleidoscope of changes around it. I've always been attracted to the geographical and social setting of the murders, but this book was what I have been waiting for. Ms. Rule describes the location, its inhabitants, and the forces around them so vividly and seamlessly that I feel that I have a solid understanding and personal connection with it. I particularly liked the continuing story of the McCarthy family. Thank you so much, Fiona! I will be watching for more fine work from you! A very happy Christmas and New Year. 
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