By Gaslight

There are two sets of characters here and initially no clear sense of how their stories insect. One is centred around the famous William Pinkerton in search of a ghost in London; the other Adam Foole who operates on the other side of the law. Charlotte Rickett's name appears in both story-lines.

In over 700 pages in flashbacks the novel ranges over India, South Africa, America as well as Nineteenth Century England. No quotes are used to indicate dialogue. Although historical characters appear this is a work of fiction. Not certain what all the diversions add to the story but they certainly serve to draw out the storyline to epic proportions. There is enough material here for at least two books.