Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn

This is a historical mystery, set in late 1880's London. I read it for my mystery book club as it came highly regarded. It concerns Lady Julia Gray, a wealthy widow from an ancient English family whose husband has been murdered. With the help of an inquiry agent, which seems to be the Victorian equivalent of a gumshoe, she sets about to find his killer.

Now that I've got that out of the way, I can tell you why I liked this book. The author paints so convincing a picture of life in that time that you cannot doubt its accuracy. While I knew going in that all was not as proper as it seemed during that time period this book strips away the veneer of politeness and shows it how it very likely was.

The interplay between the different classes as well as those of Julia's family and the household staff is fascinating. While you can argue about the fairness of the English class system it certainly creates a great and layered setting for a novel, mystery or otherwise. I liked the movie Gosford Park for the same reason, although that is mostly from the point of view of the servants, rather than that of those they serve.

Be forewarned, this book may not be for everyone. I touches upon subjects that could offend some, though they are no wores than what one may find on CSI or other tv crime shows. If historical mysteries are your bent, or even if they're not, give this a try. You may be pleasantly suprised. As always, let me know what you think. you can also email me at jeffsemonis at yahoo.com.
P.S.
It also has one of the best openings that I've ever seen.

Coyotes by Ted Conover

Ted Conover writes differently than most nonfiction authors. Most observe, research, and then report back what they have found. Conover just becomes the subject and writes from the inside out. In Coyotes, about the world of illegal immigrants, he becomes one. He lives and works with them and even crosses the border illegally.

Even though this book was published over twenty years ago it is still relevant to the current debate on illegal immigration. While a lot has changed since this book was written, particularly after 9/11, it still gives an unabashed look at the personal side of these immigrants. You learn about the working conditions and home lives of these people, from someone who was there beside them. No matter which side of the debate you stand on you will come away from this book with a new understanding.

If you like this, try Conover's Rolling Nowhere, which is the story if his time riding the rails as a hobo. His latest book, Newjack, is about life as a prison guard, again, from the inside. He worked for a year as a prison guard at Sing Sing in New York state. It won the Pulitzer prize and I can see why.

If you've read them, let me know what you think below.