Another superb tale of mystery, myth and crime unfolds in Shepherd's latest novel. Following on from the English Monster, which introduced us to the wonderful sleuthing duo of Harriott and Horton and their quest to introduce detective work into the role of the police, we find them undertaking an equally tangled and seemingly inexplicable case.
It involves a number of sailors meeting a grisly disturbing end following a voyage of discovery to Otaheite (Tahiti today). The shipmates and their captain all have something to hide from their journey to collect exotic botanical examples to fill Kew Gardens. The story travels back and forth so that the present day case unfolds alongside the background context filling in the details behind the characters, motives and actions.
Once again we have some true historical details which the story is framed around so you really get a feel for the period, along with the keen desire for knowledge that was prevalent during this time.
I think I enjoyed this one even more than The English Monster, which I would urge readers to go for first. Not simply because it's a great story (up for the HWA this year no less!) but also because I think Harriott and Horton's characters and relationship are worth following right from the beginning. They'll quickly become an endearing pair you'll look forward to following in this gripping series.
