Every reader of mysteries is interested in the puzzle: who done it? I happy to say that the author, Peter Lovesey, plays fair with the reader. Although I cannot say much about the plot without giving too much away, I can say that the command of period detail is excellent. In particular, Mr. Lovesey has lovingly recreated the boisterous atmosphere of 19th century British music halls, with all their sentimental and tawdry acts.

But when someone begins sabotaging music hall acts, Sergeant Cribb begins to look for the connections behind the sabotage. Assisted by Constable Thackeray, who would rather do anything than attend mandatory literacy classes, Cribb immerses himself in the music halls, trying to anticipate the next "accident".

For anyone looking for a mystery steeped in 19th century popular entertainment, I recommend this book. ( )

Cribb and Thackeray investigate a series of seeming accidents in the lowlife music halls ( )