In 1870 Charles Dickens died, having published only six installments of his final novel. (Dickens method was to publish novels one chapter per month in authorized magazines and then publish the book upon completion of the magazine series.) His American publisher, Fields & Osgood , was struggling and if Dickens had secretly finished Drood, they must be the first to find the manuscript and publish it. It seems that the publishing business was populated by unprincipled men. In fact, this story is full of scoundrels.

Mr. Pearl wastes no time developing rich characters that I formed strong feelings for and against. Young Daniel Sand is murdered when he goes to the docks to retrieve the Dickens manuscript shipped from his English publisher. James Osgood sets out to find the missing manuscript, save his firm and solve Daniel’s murder. Of course, a beautiful woman is involved, as are a wide array of the most fascinating characters I’ve read. As the story unfolds, the stakes become ever higher. The ending is even more intense and satisfying.

The Last Dickens is Matthew Pearl’s best novel, so far and it is the best use of your entertainment time and money I can think of.

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