I like that these stories are based on actual events—and then embellished with a fictional retelling of some real small town class-struggles, packed with unreliable characters clinging to shaky systems of toxic belief amid a rather bleak life in the 18th century. And bleak it is. You can’t even see past the bleak atmosphere because of the acid rain and noxious fog that has descended upon the country. And of course, religion offers zero hope. 

In the midst of the thick mist, Dr Silkstone needs to solve a set of mysterious deaths. He sets his scalpel to the task with his trusty sidekick, Franklin, the white lab rat (before lab rats were a thing, apparently). And he’s fallen hard for a Lady (with little foundation to their relationship, even though I think Thomas is a super decent guy and can understand why she’s fallen—just can’t see his motives exactly—other than she needs rescuing and she might be aesthetically beautiful, and these both appeal to him). And there are some complications here to do with Lydia’s lost son that they face together.

It’s got some fairly good action and interesting bits about historical culture and systems of the day which are explored on several planes, though nothing gets overly complicated. In fact, it all seems a bit too easily resolved.

In reflection, I can’t help but want more from Lydia. Thomas is the star, obviously, but I think his choice in woman might be a tad more exotic or intelligent. Lydia is too easily swayed and discouraged and manipulated. She’s shown hints of having strength, but her character is really weak overall. Maybe that’s intentional, but just seems Thomas has more brains than to be with someone so intellectually dull. Who knows…

On to the next one, see what happens…