Author masters art of thrillers

There are many words that describe David Morrell's latest novel, “Murder as a Fine Art.”

Author Douglas Preston called it a “masterpiece.”

“Brilliant” also comes to mind.

I prefer to simply call it the best book Morrell has ever written. The best book I have ever read.

Best known for his first novel - “First Blood,” the book that made Rambo a household name - Morrell has put together a remarkably well-written and well-researched story about London in 1854.

Typical of his writings, “Murder as a Fine Art” mixes reality with fiction, a task that meant two years of research for Morrell.

The story follows the real-life Thomas DeQuincey's return to London, years after his infamous “Confessions of an Opium Eater” had been published as well as another a tale about the Radcliffe Highway murders.

The fiction takes over when, 43 years after those real-life murders in 1811, a copycat has emerged among the yellow fog and grimy streets of London.

DeQuincey, back in town thanks to an anonymous donor to promote his writings, becomes a suspect because of his tongue-in-cheek portrayal of the earlier murders as “fine art.”

The story that follows has elements of suspense, high action and intrigue.

It is so well written - especially diary passages by DeQuincey's daughter, Emily - that you actually feel dirty when a constable gets stuck in the mud, battling two wild pigs while trying to save the footprint of the murderer.

It's hard to keep fact from fiction at times, but that's what makes Morrell a true master and these kinds on novels.

Sit back and enjoy this wonderful tale, go back in time and feel the grit. And don't be surprised if you can't put it down.