The Way of All Flesh by Ambrose Parry

Chris Brookmyre and Dr. Marisa Haetzman join forces on their debut novel under their Ambrose Parry moniker

Book Review by Mika Cook | 07 Sep 2018
Book title: The Way of All Flesh
Author: Ambrose Parry

The Way of All Flesh is the historically criminal brainchild of Chris Brookmyre and Dr. Marisa Haetzman – you can call them Ambrose Parry. Will Raven, a medical student in Victorian Edinburgh, is about to embark on an apprenticeship with the renowned Dr Simpson, specialist in Midwifery. It's a chance to trade the dangers of Old Town for a safer life in the New Town. However, Will’s past might stand in his way – not to mention an increasing number of young women that have been found dead after botched operations.

The primary drive is the development of anaesthetics and the discovery of chloroform, based upon material uncovered by Haetzman. The brutality of Victorian medical advances and its blatant disregard for human life perfectly offsets the spree of deaths which eventually unites Will and Sarah, Dr Simpson's unconventional protégé. There is a clear parallel between the hazards of medical progress in the Victorian era and the dangers of childbirth, or the prevention thereof, and this makes for a compelling read. This is a novel full of contradictions, for which 19th-century Edinburgh provides a perfect backdrop.

The archaic nature of the dialogue can at times feel stunted, though this is resolved as the characters find their footing, while the rich historical backdrop and clever intricacies of the plot are the real stars of The Way of All Flesh. A refreshing addition to the historical crime genre. 

Canongate, out now, £14.99 https://canongate.co.uk/books/2502-the-way-of-all-flesh/