The Empty Mirror
J. Sydney Jones
St. Martin's
The Empty Mirror
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Vienna, 1898. Five murders have taken place. The latest is the young model
of the controversial painter Gustav Klimt. This alone makes Klimt an obvious
suspect but his past and his bearing compound the problem. Klimt goes to his
lawyer Karl Werthen (read Watson) who goes to Dr. Hans Gross (Holmes) noted
criminologist. Together they set out to prove Klimt's innocence. The tour of
Vienna is part of the appeal of Jones's mystery. Mr. Jones lived in Vienna over
twenty years and clearly loves the city. He accurately captures the turn of
the century mood in Europe as well; as the murders reveal some darker aspects
of times. The Empty Mirror is a fine start to what the front
flap promises will be a series of city mysteries from the turn of the century.
Mr. Jones has set a high standard with a believable team of 'detectives' and
a beautiful city to match. A fine first effort for this series.
David Biemann