One Sentence Summary:
When a Spanish diplomat’s daughter goes missing, a team of investigative experts is assembled to track down a deranged killer, uncovering the dark secrets of society’s elite along the way.
Book Genre:
Historical fiction, mystery, thriller
Main Topic of the Book:
The hunt for a child killer and the inner workings of New York City’s social and political structure in the late 19th century.
Key Ideas:
- The disturbing nature of human behavior and the darker side of society, regardless of socio-economic status
- The impact of childhood trauma on adult behavior
- The importance of forensic investigation and psychological profiling in solving crimes
- The role of women in a male-dominated society
Main Parts of the Book and Short Summary:
The Angel of Darkness is divided into four parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the investigation and addressing different themes. These parts are:
- Part One: The Will of the Child – The disappearance of Spanish diplomat’s daughter brings together crime reporter John Schuyler Moore, detective Laszlo Kreizler, and socialite Sara Howard to form a team determined to find the perpetrator before it’s too late.
- Part Two: The Eyes of a Child – As they gather evidence and begin to piece together the killer’s profile, the team encounters resistance and threats from powerful figures in society who want to bury the truth.
- Part Three: The Will of the Master – The team delves deeper into the dark underworld of New York City, navigating dangerous situations and facing personal demons, all in pursuit of the killer.
- Part Four: The Will of Justice – In a thrilling climax, the team finally confronts the killer and must use all of their skills to bring him to justice, while also facing the consequences of their actions.
Key Takeaways:
- “The Angel of Darkness” is a dark and chilling story that explores the depths of human depravity and the complexities of society.
- The book sheds light on the development of forensic investigation and psychological profiling as tools for solving crimes.
- The characters are dynamic and complex, with their own personal struggles and motivations that drive the story forward.
Author’s Background and Qualifications:
Caleb Carr is a renowned American military and political historian, as well as a best-selling author. He has a master’s degree in international relations and a doctoral degree in military history. His expertise in these fields is evident in the intricate details and historical accuracy portrayed in his novels.
Target Audience:
Those interested in historical fiction, psychological thrillers, and murder mysteries would enjoy “The Angel of Darkness.” Additionally, fans of Caleb Carr’s previous works, such as “The Alienist,” would also find this book engaging.
Publisher and First Publication Date:
“The Angel of Darkness” was published by Random House Publishing Group on October 13, 1997.