The Devil’s Cathedral

Having read and thoroughly enjoyed David Fairer's first book, Chocolate House Treason, I was keen to read this follow-up. I was not disappointed! Using the social and cultural tensions that came to the fore at this time as his plot driver as mayhem and murder at London's Theatre Royal and May fair challenge the Chocolate House protagonists, the author's passion and knowledge for this period shines through, and I found this a totally immersive read. There is a depth and vividness that brings this world alive, with some lovely touches of humour and humanity woven into the narrative. Just loved it, as did the rest of my book group.

This is a hugely enjoyable mystery set in Queen Anne's London, with an engaging cast of characters and a vivid evocation of the sights (and smells!) of eighteenth-century life. Actors, thugs, puritans, poets, pig-roasts, dastardly deeds in the costume store, and sinister plots to wreck the theatre. Strongly recommended. ------ Amazon reviewer https://www.amazon.co.uk/Devils-Cathedral-Mystery-Queen-London/dp/1800464452/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=the+devil%27s+cathedral&qid=1633860241&qsid=134-1283031-6913522&s=books&sr=1-1&sres=1800464452%2C6200493995%2C1974633020%2CB0017CZ20I%2CB00B8XQF66%2CB07KQKSBQ4%2CB0017WULN6%2CB07BD3Z158%2C3934941826%2C0312279981%2CB088N8ZV3P%2CB0008CNB74%2C0061349488%2CB01L3UJM3G%2CB07PDNJ92R%2C0811737683

A fascinating blend of history and fiction, with a generous dollop of suspense! A richly rewarding read.

A wonderful book, recreating all the atmosphere of 18th century theatre life, with a mysterious plot for readers to solve, and a suspenseful climax. I learned how Mayfair got its name: from the carnivalesque street fair and entertainments. David Fairer's thorough research makes the reader feel they are actually there. I particularly enjoyed the author's own renderings of typical plays of the time. A brilliant book cover!

The Devil's Cathedral fuses an exciting mystery with an exploration of a vital aspect of eighteenth-century London. Debates about the theatre come alive with an amazing power, violence, and contemporary relevance, and the sounds and smells of the London theatres and fairs are vividly evoked. David Fairer's impressive scholarship is imaginatively translated into a tale that is intellectually and emotionally engaging.