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Gallows Thief

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'Gallows Thief' by Bernard Cornwell is a historical fiction novel set in 1817 London, post Napoleonic wars. The story follows Captain Rider Sandman, a Waterloo veteran turned investigator, who is hired to prove the innocence of a man sentenced to hang for a murder he did not commit. Sandman delves into the seamy streets of London, uncovering the flaws in the justice system and racing against time to find the real killer before it's too late. combines elements of murder mystery, social commentary, and historical accuracy to create a thrilling narrative that captures the ambiance of early 19th-century London.

With a writing style akin to Cornwell's Sharpe novels, 'Gallows Thief' presents readers with a well-crafted plot, a likeable protagonist in Sandman, and sturdy supporting characters that add depth to the story. offers a departure from Cornwell's usual battle-heavy narratives, focusing instead on the intricacies of the criminal justice system, the social dynamics of the era, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Through vivid descriptions and engaging storytelling, Cornwell brings Regency England to life, weaving together elements of mystery, historical accuracy, and social commentary into a captivating tale of justice and redemption.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Rider Sandman as an admirable protagonist surrounded by a diverse cast that reflects the social dynamics of the time.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging and descriptive, effectively immersing readers in the historical setting while maintaining suspense and entertainment.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot revolves around a historical mystery in 19th century London, focusing on Rider Sandman's attempts to prove the innocence of a convicted painter while addressing social issues like the death penalty.

Setting:

The setting is 19th century London, vividly illustrating the gritty aspects of the criminal justice system and the social atmosphere of the time.

Pacing:

The pacing can be slow and repetitive in places, but it builds tension effectively, although some readers feel the conclusion is rushed.
RIDER SANDMAN WAS UP LATE THAT MONDAY MORNING because he had been paid seven guineas to play for Sir John Hart’s eleven against a Sussex team, the winners to share a bonus of a hundred guineas, and Sa...

Notes:

The book is set in 19th century London, specifically the year 1817.
The protagonist, Rider Sandman, is a veteran of the Battle of Waterloo.
Rider returns to London to find his family in disarray after his father's suicide due to gambling losses.
He is forced to take a job investigating a murder case to support his family.
The story revolves around a convicted painter accused of murdering a Countess, but Rider believes he is innocent.
The novel features elements of mystery and suspense with unexpected plot twists.
Rider's investigation involves navigating the harsh and gritty realities of the London criminal justice system.
There is a significant critique of the death penalty featured in the narrative.
The book has been compared to Jack Reacher novels for its pacing and action.
Cornwell is known for well-researched historical novels, and this one is no exception.
Rider Sandman is not a typical military character; he is also portrayed as educated and gentlemanly despite his diminished circumstances.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include graphic depictions of executions and themes related to capital punishment.

From The Publisher:

The year is 1820. Rider Sandman, a hero of Waterloo, returns to London to wed his fiancée. But instead of settling down to fame and glory, he finds himself penniless in a country where high unemployment and social unrest rage, and where men-innocent or guilty-are hanged for the merest of crimes.

When he's offered a job as private investigator to re-open the case of a painter due to be hanged for a murder he didn't commit, Sandman readily accepts-as much for the money as for a chance to see justice done in a country gone to ruins.

Soon, however, he's mired in a grisly murder plot that keeps thickening. Sandman makes his way through gentlemen's clubs and shady taverns, aristocratic mansions, and fashionable painters' studios determined to rescue the innocent young man from the rope. But someone doesn't want the truth revealed.

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