By Lynn Shepherd
Delacorte Press, 2012. 340 pgs. Mystery
"The Solitary House" is a historical novel that occurs in Dickensian London alongside the plot of "Bleak House." Characters from Dickens's novel make appearances as Charles Maddox, a thief taker, tries to unravel two perplexing mysteries. The first is a case of a missing child and the second involves a certain lawyer, Mr. Tulkinghorn, and his shady associates.
Many gifted writers are turning back to the classics to gain inspiration for new adventures featuring characters readers have loved for over a century. What sets this book apart is the interesting and skillful way Shepherd weaves his story with that of Lady Deadlock, Inspector Bucket, and Mr. Tulkinghorn.
Readers not familiar with the story and characters of "Bleak House" can still enjoy "The Solitary House," but knowing at least the basics of the original novel certainly adds to the fun this new work. If you, like me, don't want to commit to reading 800-plus pages of Dickens to prepare for "The Solitary House," then try grabbing the BBC film instead (though even that is a good seven hours long).
CZ
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