Book Review: 31 Bond Street

Title: 31 Bond Street

Author: Ellen Horan

About the Book:

In the vein of The Alienist, 31 Bond Streettransports readers back to New York City of the 19th century with an unending series of suspenseful twists and turns.

When the brutally stabbed and nearly decapitated body of a society dentist is found in his townhouse in lower Manhattan, the identity of the killer becomes a question that consumes national interest in the days preceding the Civil War.

Set against the background of a bustling and corrupt New York City in 1857, 31 Bond Street is a fascinating archeological dig, taking the reader through the minutiae of a buried past, only to uncover circumstances that are shockingly contemporary; a sensationalist press, burgeoning new wealth, a booming real estate market, and race and gender conflicts. The novel vividly exposes a small slice of lost history as it explores New York City on the eve of the Civil War.

My Review:

31 Bond Street is a wonderful novel of mystery and intrigue.  It was one of those books that carries you away, completely transporting you to another time and place.  The setting, 1850s New York, is fascinating, and is captured remarkably well.

The story is a great one; a wealthy businessman is murdered in his home, and the ensuing investigation involves the man’s family, his household staff, the coroner, the district attorney, a local criminal attorney, and the press.  Everyone has something at stake. The beauty of 31 Bond Street is that it tells a classic story but it tells it in a classic way.  You’ll feel as though you’ve picked up an old book by a famous writer, one that doesn’t have a gimmick or a hook, one that relies on nothing but its story and its storytelling.  In this case, Ellen Horan can do so, because she has nailed it in her first novel.

The characters are interesting and have depth, the dialogue is realistic and dramatic, and the storylines are compelling.   I was thrilled to read this.  It keeps your attention, it is exquisitely well-written, and it is hard to put down.  You know those books, when you want to read “just one more chapter” and the next thing you know, an hour has passed?  That’s 31 Bond Street.  I can’t say enough good things about it.  Anyone who fancies themselves a serious reader will be more than happy with this book.

*I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way. The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this novel.*

31 Bond Street “Cast the Movie” Contest

The Prize? Handmade truffles from Bond Street Chocolates in New York City

Open to worldwide to anyone who has read the book 31 Bond Street.

Ends August 31, 2010.

Enter here.