|
Anne Perry introduces us to a world of illusions, secrets, and mysteries. This novel is
set in Victorian England among London's upper middle class. It's the first novel featuring
Charlotte Ellison and Thomas Pitt.
The story begins when the daughter of a well-to-do family is murdered. As an isolated
incident in a staid, suburban neighborhood, it doesn't cause more than a ripple of
interest in Charlotte Ellison's home. Surely, it's only a passing criminal from a less
desirable part of town. When a maid is found murdered on the same street, the victim is
blamed. The Ellison's friends seize on a new explanation: only the immoral are being
targeted. Since the Ellisons are pattern cards of society, they don't have to worry. But,
when their own maid falls victim to the Cater Street Hangman, they are forced to help
solve the murders.
Inspector Pitt enters the Ellison household looking for answers. His presence, however,
quickly becomes a reminder that everything is not as it seems in this well-ordered
society. His persistent questions cause the Ellisons to search their hearts, doubt their
loved ones, and, essentially, struggle with issues of faith and trust. This is the real
story and the reason that THE CATER STREET HANGMAN is a wonderful introduction to
protagonists Charlotte and Thomas Pitt.
Anne Perry skillfully exposes the tense undercurrents that run through the Ellison home
and Victorian society. Charlotte (who in this first novel isn't married to Thomas Pitt)
serves as our representative. She questions the double standard of acceptable behavior for
men and women. She is interested in every subject and expresses her opinion frequently and
honestly. In short, she begins to see the shortcomings of her superficial and inflexible
world --- voicing them at the same moments we do. Consequently, her character is
sympathetic instead of antiquated.
Inspector Pitt's compassion complements Charlotte's frankness. Although more of a marginal
character, he adds depth to the novel by providing us with a different view of Victorian
England. If the Ellisons represent the wealthy class, Pitt shows us the poor and
underprivileged. Together, the two are dynamic and engaging, providing us with more than
one reason to read on.
In fact, all of the characters are well drawn. From starch Ellison patriarch, Edward, to
his scheming young daughter, Emily, it seems Perry has a talent for incorporating every
personality type into her stories. The result is a complete novel with enough depth and
range to sustain an entire series. Mystery fans and those who simply enjoy good reads
should find themselves enthralled with Charlotte and Thomas Pitt.
--- Reviewed by Amee Vyas
© Copyright 1996-2009, Bookreporter.com. All rights reserved.
Back to top.
|
