Richard S. (ggoldrush) reviewed The Queen of Bedlam (Matthew Corbett, Bk 2) on + 7 more book reviews
Fabulous sequel to Speaks the Nightbird. I love historical fiction but do not enjoy historical mysteries or historical crime novels. In this case, I make an exception. Could not put this book down! Nor the others in the Mathew Corbett series. This novel has it all: living, breathing characters plus an accurate historical setting. And, a great plot.
Diana H. (dianaleigh) reviewed The Queen of Bedlam (Matthew Corbett, Bk 2) on + 13 more book reviews
Wow! I almost gave up on this book early on as it started out a bit slow. I had just finished listening to the first Matthew Corbett book "Speaks the Night bird" which I gave 4 stars. It also starts out rather gritty (like the first one) and sometimes it is just a bit much. So I told myself I would give it one more chapter, and it really took off. I liked this story and mystery even better than the first one, and I like how Matthew's character is developing. Plus, his journey as a detective is quite exciting. This book has one of the most suspenseful scenes ever written in my opinion! I was completely on the edge of my seat. The setting of late 17th century New York and surrounding areas is also interesting. McCammon is gifted in the way he reveals things to the reader at the after they have been revealed to the main character; you learn them as the character reveals them as part of the story. Very clever. I am on to the next one
Robert McCammon is one of my favorite authors and he again does not disappoint. In this intricately plotted sequel to Speaks the Nightbird, McCammon delivers a richly developed story with a host of interesting characters that will catch you in its spell early in the rather thick (645-page) volume. The author credibly captures the feeling of 18th-century life in the growing New York colony while weaving together related and unrelated plot threads in a compelling story. While Speaks the Nightbird is referenced throughout the story, you will be able to enjoy the Queen of Bedlam without having read its prequel. Matthew Corbett is a law clerk whose world and life are in a state of change. His innate curiosity and sense of justice impress and annoy those around him and compel the action for most of the story. A murderer is brutally striking down local well-known citizens, striking fear throughout the town. The printmaster is fanning the flames with his publication. A new city leader has come to town with new ideas. The local minister is taking secret late-night walks. An old woman with an unknown identity waits in a sanitarium. A secret sinister force lurks, makes plans and gains strength. Meanwhile, an interesting and headstrong woman with a dark cloud of bad luck comes to town, as well as a mysterious and powerful woman with an unusual business proposition - both to have an effect on Matthew's ordered life. I enjoyed this book more than Speaks the Nightbird and highly recommend this terrific book.
