The Wrath of Moses

John Sturgeon's "The Wrath of Moses" is a wonderfully written book. It is mirrors quite well the Chicago that Erik Larson writes about in "The Devil in the White City". If you have not read John Sturgeon's "The Crimes of the Levee" I would recommend that you read that first. This is not absolutely necessary as this newest chapter of Patrick Moses does read quite well as a stand-alone. You understand throughout that there is backstory but there is plenty of references that you get a feel for what transpired. I have not read his first book but as a compliment to Mr Sturgeon I now find it necessary to go pick up a copy.

Patrick Moses is a man under a tremendous amount of stress. The murder of prostitutes continues though the man thought to have been behind them is dead. A string of unrelated murders has been added to his case load. And a new kidnapping has occurred. All three cases are top priorities. To relieve the stress Patrick is drinking far to much and visiting an opium den. To say that he is a flawed character is an understatement.

Mr Sturgeon's prose is rough but it seems to be intentional. A rough era, in a rough city, in a rough district. His writing style echoes down dirty alleyways, through brothels and opium dens, and into the upscale neighborhoods. His characters have depth where needed. Even characters who appear only briefly have a story, even though unwritten. Your imagination is engaged. For an author to engage your imagination is a truly remarkable thing. I can see each of the people who populate this Chicago.

I look forward to reading more from John Sturgeon.

I wish to thank the Publisher, the author, and NetGalley for my free review copy in exchange for this honest review.