Thursday, April 7, 2011

A Prisoner of Birth


Traveling to Smith College and just finished a GREAT book by Jeffrey Archer, A Prisoner of Birth.  This mystery parallels in many ways a 21st century The Count of Monte Cristo by Dumas, which I also loved. The story of two sides of the tracks from England’s West End and Southside.  The protagonist, Danny Cartwright, is accused of killing his best friend outside a bar, but he didn’t do it, except he was in the wrong part of town, and the actual killer was able to have Danny arrested.  The “four musketeers” as they are fondly referred to in the story, led by Spencer Craig, are actually responsible for the cover-up of Craig’s actions as murderer.  The book chronicles Danny’s court trial, time in jail and then a twist occurs.  Danny’s jail mate (Sir Nicholas Moncrieff) commits suicide.  Or is he killed?  Danny and his other cellmate (Big Al) create a plan for Danny to disguise himself as the recently deceased Moncrieff.  Once Danny escapes, he leads Sir Nicholas’ life in which he inherits land and a stamp collection, much to the dismay of Moncrieff’s long lost uncle.  Court cases, Danny facing three of the four musketeers (one dies suddenly while also in jail), and Danny’s reunion with his long lost love (the sister of the deceased friend) all make for a drama of epic proportions.  This mystery/love story with intrigue at every corner is also like another favorite of mine, Shadow of the Wind.  I realize that I really do enjoy the mystery-type stories.  Add this to your list.  Archer is an outstanding author who has developed a story worth reading, though I listened to it!  A 2008 published book, so a nice recent one.  You should enjoy!

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