The Paragon of Animals

Stephen Greenhalgh is Prospect Research Analyst, Advancement Services,
University of Alberta.

This second instalment of the Inspector Devlin series by J.S. Cook, an
author, playwright, and CBC radio commentator, follows the successful A
Cold-Blooded Scoundrel, published in 2005.

When a series of bizarre and grisly murders begin to surface across
late-1800s London, Inspector Devlin of Scotland Yard is called on to
investigate. The inspector’s talents as a seasoned investigator are
soon put to the test, and before long, Devlin determines that he must
use whatever means possible to find the fiend responsible. As the
narrative reaches its climax, the reader may begin wonder if the good
inspector will himself become the city’s latest victim.

Cook is a superb storyteller. Her narrative quickly grabs the
reader’s attention and holds it by incorporating many unexpected
twists and turns. Cook is also adept at creating fascinating characters
and evoking the sights and sounds of late-Victorian London. The Paragon
of Animals is sure to win approval from fans of the mystery genre.