A METROPOLITAN MURDER

Victorian police Inspector Decimus Webb is as unique as his first name and the velocipede he uses to transport himself, to the amusement of his staff. When the body of a young woman is found on the Metropolitan Line, many are suspected and questioned. Narrator Joe Dunlop does a marvelous job creating believable gamblers, medicine men, academics, and inmates at the Holborn Refuge (a home for "fallen women"), and of course, a very memorable Decimus. Dunlop skillfully maintains suspense AND compassion for those who live hard lives in difficult times. Jackson includes a multitude of characters and introduces many theories for listeners to ponder as the complex story unfolds. Situations and characters are reminiscent of those in Sherlock Holmes stories, and Dunlop's delivery enhances this appealing similarity. Mystery buffs and lovers of Victorian-era literature will be most satisfied. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 05]