The Skull and the Nightingale

The Skull and the Nightingale (2013) by Michael Irwin. Moderately interesting novel, set in 1761, about Richard Fenwick, a young man with no family and no means, who is supported by his godfather. But his godfather is no benign benefactor; rather, he wishes Richard to experience London, in all its fetid and sensual glory, and to write letters to him (the godfather) telling him about his (Richard's) exploits. In other words, the godfather wants to live vicariously through his young (age 23) godson. Irwin, the author, is an academic, and no doubt his work contains many interesting references and insights into London in 1761; but I was not able to perceive them and saw only a mannered novel, modestly interesting, with a slightly disappointing ending. That it is a good book I have no doubt. But I was not able to fully appreciate it, and I doubt many Americans will. Grade: B