Oscar Wilde and the Candlelight Murders

From 2007 onwards, Gyles Brandreth has begun a series of detective stories starring the famous Victorian author Oscar Wilde. Accompanied by two fellows named Robert Sherard and Arthur Conan Doyle (yes, him indeed), dear Oscar tries to solve mysteries. The books – or at least this very one – wish for faithfulness and veracity. The story is thus told by Sherard, according to the diaries he hold at the time. As being a close friend of Wilde, he presents us the man that lies behind the author, either enhanced and attacked when under trial.

In the first investigation, Oscar has to face the death of one of his friends and students, Billy Wood. He turns to Conan Doyle in search for help, and the latter directs him to a young Scotland Yard inspector named Fraser. At first, Oscar is not believed, so Sherard and him will begin to investigate by themselves. As an absolute admirer of Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes, Wilde constantly refers to Holmes' science of deduction and tries to think as Holmes would have think. His observations and deductions will lead to a perfect a Columbo-like disclosure. We have figured out some elements, but the best part will be revealed.

Despite the genuine interest given by this story, Brandreth leaves the reader uncertain about it. Oscar Wilde's investigation oscillates between his quest and his usual day-life during a period of several months. In other words the author alternates between long passages based on historical facts and the breathlessness of the investigation. There is too big a gap between the two. However in the end, we tend to forget these details, so much that we are eager to know the truth. In addition, Brandreth has carefully mingled Oscar Wilde's famous quotes and witticisms, to add some pleasure, authenticity and Wilde's universe to the book (what is essential!).

All in all, Gyles Brandreth is just as effective as Stephanie Barron is with her Jane Austen Mysteries. Jane Austen and Oscar Wilde are safe bets these days in the bookshelves.

Quotes :

“There is no friendship possible between men and women, Robert. Remember that. There is passion, enmity, worship, love, but no friendship.” (real quote used by Brandreth)

“why should we not joyfully admit, both od us, that there are some people – other people – we do not wish to see again? It is not ingratitude. It is not indifference. They have simply given us all they have to give and we must move on.” (sounds like a real quote)