Most of what I read is non-fiction. In recent years I have made a concerted effort to always be reading one novel. The last novel I finished, Dungeon Crawler Carl, was enjoyable because it was so unusual. The book I picked up next I am enjoying even more. Indeed, reading it reminds me of the addictiveness of fiction that I experienced growing up and in my 20s, when I read a lot of novels.

While I have about 35 pages yet go go, I can say with certainty that Ken Follett’s 1993 novel A Dangerous Fortune is a real page turner. The book is one of his earlier works, and stands apart from his more famous novels, which can be categorized as spy thrillers or historical fiction set in the Britain of the Middle Ages. This book is also set in Britain, but takes place in the later half of the 19th century, during the Victorian period.

There are a few elements that I think make the reading most enjoyable for me. For one, the plot is well layed out, with several strings being pulled through the story to the end. The characters, despite being somehat simply drawn, are interesting and their motivations intriguing. Indeed, I am anxious now that I am near the end to see how the good guys are going to pull through and the bad actors karmically brought to task.

The setting of the book reminds me of Caleb Carr’s excellent book The Alienist. I am also reminded a bit of Kevin Baker’s excellent story Paradise Alley.

If you’re looking for a ‘beach read’ or ‘page turner’, A Dangerous Fortune is a solid choice.