Using Atlanta's 1881 International Cotton Exposition as the backdrop to his second novel, Matthew Guinn (The Resurrectionist) expertly weaves fact and fiction to create this gripping historical mystery.
Georgia's capital is recovering and finding its way in the post-Civil War era; the exposition is intended to show the world that the South is transforming and using technology to more efficiently handle cotton production. However, a serial killer is striking in Atlanta. If word gets out, it could foil the exposition.
Police chief Vernon Thompson believes the killer is an insider, so he needs an investigator separate from his department, someone he can trust to solve the case quickly and quietly. Thompson summons his friend and disgraced former detective Thomas Canby back to the city and pairs him with Atlanta's first African-American officer, Cyrus Underwood. Together the two outcasts face down a killer who may just embody pure evil.
In his author's note, Guinn admits to taking a few liberties with history's timeline for the sake of his story, but these small creative licenses take nothing from the excitement and suspense of the novel. The atmosphere is as vibrant as the brilliant new electric lights adorning the exposition facilities. It illuminates the dynamic and eclectic cast--from the city's wealthy industrialists to its colorful outliers--as well as the advances and disgraces of the era. Finally, the deeply philosophical theme of good and evil gives the reader meaty food for thought.
Fast-paced, intense and as relevant to today as the 19th century, The Scribe is noteworthy indeed. --Jen Forbus of Jen's Book Thoughts