Worth Reading but liked The Pale Blue Eye way more
My book club read this, and many people couldn't get past the initial seamy, visceral description of urban Victorian-era poverty and filth. Nevertheless I find Bayard's ability to summon a historical period gripping, and had no problem wading forward into the main plot. I read this book based on having read his The Pale Blue Eye, involving Edgar Allan Poe's days at West Point. And found that one way more satisfying. Mr. Timothy is memorable nonetheless.
