[b]Rating[/b]: 5 out of 5 stars This is a fascinating book, well-written and thoroughly researched. It is about a real private detective, yet at times it reads like a novel. In addition to telling the story of Henry Slater, this book discusses identity in Victorian society including class and gender. Even the parts of the book that feel slower are interesting in painting a portrait of Slater and the society in which he lived. I was totally engrossed, even while I was appalled by some of the actions that were pertinent to the trial. Fans of historical true crime (that doesn't involve murder) and Sherlock Holmes will likely find this book interesting.
NetGalley, Katie A

This more high-level, material-culture approach allows Philip Boyes’ Script and Society to ask incisive questions about Ugaritic’s practical contexts and make a groundbreaking proposal about the motivations for its invention as a response to Hittite imperialism
Bibliotheca Orientalis - October 2024

I've often wondered about the captivating woman painted several times by Thomas Gainsborough and others. Now my curiosity is satisfied by this biography of Sarah Siddons, the first "celebrity actress". She grew up as a member of a family troupe of travelling actors, always poor and often hungry, resorting to foraging for turnips to eat. But before she was 30 she had become a superstar, her fees greater than any actor - male or female - had previously achieved. The book is full of period detail and I really enjoyed Sarah's story.
NetGalley, Gail Hanlon

[b]Rating[/b]: 5 out of 5 stars The last climb of George Mallory and Andrew Irvine, towards the summit of Mount Everest on 8 June 1924, has been shrouded in mystery for a century. Were they the first humans to stand at the highest point in the world? The discovery of Mallory's body in 1999 did nothing to resolve the mystery. Until now, accounts of their climb have been driven by speculation and preconceived narrative. I’ve always been fascinated by this story. Something of the old pioneer/explorer in it really appeals so I was delighted to read this excellent book. It’s well researched and presented. It describes in detail just how Mallory prepared for the climbing of the highest mountain in the world. It also gives an insight on the man himself but, sadly it cannot answer the inevitable question. Did Mallory and Irvine reach the summit or not? It’s a great read however.
NetGalley, Steve Cripwell

A good read with a well paced narrative. A terrifying storyline that is very tense at times. Well developed characters and thoroughly engaging throughout.
NetGalley, Emma Gardner