Review of The Eye That Never Sleeps by Author Clifford Browder

Clifford Browder’s The Eye That Never Sleeps, which dates back to New York City in the late 19th century, poses a decidedly brilliant take on the historical crime thriller with a tantalizingly twisted narrative that masterfully brings together history, mystery, and characters. developed.

A growing mystery is afoot in the sprawling New York City metropolis of 1869 when three banks are robbed in a nine-month period. Of particular concern is the theft of the Banco de Comercio, which is considered the heist of the century. Furthermore, the thief has the gall to brag about the thefts by sending the president of each bank gloating over rhyming verses and a bank key within days of waking up from each planned robbery.

Meanwhile, unfortunately for the bankers, the police department has been overwhelmed by the myriad of cases from other criminal investigations that leave the city’s bankers in increasing despair. In search of answers, they turn to agent / private detective Sheldon Minick, who agrees to take over the case for a substantial advance allowing the financially distressed detective to pay the bills and bring meat to his table.

An intriguing character from the start, Minick seems reserved and intelligent, but odd, as he not only enjoys baffling the criminals he pursues, but his clients as well. Additionally, a master of disguise, he manages to successfully infiltrate the infamous Thieves Ball that the police had previously found impenetrable to eliminate potential suspects. It is there, at the ball, that Sheldon Minick meets Slick Nick Prime, aka Nicholas Hale, a master crackman and a swaggering dandy whose wealth and cunning allows him to respond to his inclinations at will.

Consequently, excitement ensues as these two complex characters come together in an exciting game of entanglement and wit with intimate perspectives on the psyche and lifestyles of men on display. As a result, the lives of the very different characters are brought into focus through the revealing details of the history, politics and personalities of the time, with particular attention to the division of quality of life, ultimately providing a compelling look. to the rich and privileged life. of the criminal Hale against the poor but good Minick.

All in all, I really enjoyed The Eye That Never Sleeps. I enjoyed being immersed in a story that captured the reality of that time in early New York history, especially as a New Yorker myself. I highly recommend this book. It was a worthy read that was both informative, compelling, and entertaining.