A complex novel of nineteenth century literary Boston. The interweaving of Dante's Divine Comedy into a serial killer thriller is ingenious but the premise involves extensive exposition by conversation. I found this sense of overhearing the story to be rather distancing. So, although I was interested, I will not be reading Pearl's other novel. ( )

This is a great murder mystery set as historical fiction, based upon an actual literary event; Longfellow's translation of Dante's Divine Comedy. A neat read full of references to Dante's great work (really makes me want to re-read) in which the author teases us with numerous possible suspects and a surprise ending. I thought the last couple of pages (wrap up) a little weak - but overall - an engrossing novel - well worth reading. ( )

Picked this one up randomly at Costco one day. I know you're not supposed to judge a book by it's cover, but I bought this one strictly based on the cover. Turned out well though as it was a very intriguing story. Very creative. ( )

The Dante Club is an engrossing, intellectual murder mystery, complicated in its plot, with a surprising ending. Lovers of Dante will enjoy the discussions of his work and it's applications in the story. It's not a 'brainless' read, readers must pay attention, but it's well the effort. ( )

Substance: Bending the facts about an historical curiosity to create a murder mystery, Pearl concocts a conspiracy around H. W. Longfellow's translation of The Divine Comedy, aided by O. W. Holmes, J. R. Lowell, J. t. Fields, and G. W. Greene. (So far have only finished Part I.)
Style: Muddy and pretentious, repetitive, and boring. ( )