A Set of Rogues   By: Frank Barrett (1848-)

A Set of Rogues by Frank Barrett is a riveting novel that kept me hooked from the very first page. The story takes place in the lively and bustling streets of London, where a group of intriguing and complex characters come together to form an unlikely alliance.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is Barrett's mastery of character development. Each character is incredibly well-crafted, with their own distinct personality, quirks, and motivations. From the charming and charismatic leader, Monty, to the enigmatic and mysterious Thomas, every character adds depth and vibrancy to the story.

The plot itself is a thrilling and fast-paced adventure, filled with unexpected twists and turns. As the rogues embark on their mission, they face a multitude of obstacles and challenges that test their loyalty and bonds of friendship. Barrett expertly weaves together action, suspense, and wit, creating a story that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

I was particularly impressed by Barrett's vivid descriptions of Victorian-era London. The attention to detail in capturing the ambiance and atmosphere of the city added an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative. I could almost hear the sounds of the bustling streets and smell the lingering scent of smoke-filled taverns.

Additionally, the dialogue in this novel is clever and witty, laced with humor and banter that brings the characters to life. Each conversation reveals more about the characters' relationships and motivations, further deepening the reader's connection to the story.

However, I do have one minor critique of the book. At certain points, the pacing felt slightly uneven, with some scenes dragging on while others rushed by too quickly. This disrupted the overall flow of the narrative and made it slightly challenging to fully immerse myself in the story.

Despite this small flaw, A Set of Rogues is an incredibly entertaining read that I would highly recommend to anyone seeking a thrilling historical adventure. Frank Barrett's masterful storytelling, well-developed characters, and vibrant setting make this novel a standout in its genre. I am eagerly looking forward to reading more of Barrett's work in the future.

First Page:

There being no plays to be acted at the "Red Bull," because of the Plague, and the players all cast adrift for want of employment, certain of us, to wit, Jack Dawson and his daughter Moll, Ned Herring, and myself, clubbed our monies together to buy a store of dresses, painted cloths, and the like, with a cart and horse to carry them, and thus provided set forth to travel the country and turn an honest penny, in those parts where the terror of pestilence had not yet turned men's stomachs against the pleasures of life... Continue reading book >>