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The Forensic Genealogist #7
The Wicked Trade
‘Once again the author has carefully built the story around real places, real people, and historical facts - and whilst the tale itself is fictional, it’s so well written that you’d be forgiven for thinking it was true’LostCousinsWhen Morton Farrier is presented with a case revolving around a mysterious letter written by a disreputable criminal, he finds himself delving into a murky Georgian underworld of smuggling and murder on the Kent and Sussex border. With his skills as a forensic genealogist, Morton must untangle the mysterious Ann Fothergill's association with the notorious Aldington Gang and the brutal killing of Quartermaster Richard Morgan. As Morton's research deepens, he begins to suspect that his client's family might have more troublesome and dangerous expectations of his findings. Fans of the Morton Farrier genealogical crime mystery series will love this seventh installment, although it can also be enjoyed as a stand-alone story.‘I can thoroughly recommend this book, which is a superior example of its genre. It is an ideal purchase for anyone with an interest in reading thrillers and in family history studies. I look forward to the next instalment of Morton Farrier’s quest!’Waltham Forest FHS‘Nathan Dylan Goodwin has the uncanny ability to take an historical story and skilfully weave it into the modern setting of a genealogical mystery. This story has suspense, intrigue, and lots of solid research…’Napa Valley Genealogical Society‘Nathan Dylan Goodwin's latest book, The Wicked Trade, is a fast-paced read of genealogical intrigue with a basis of actual and true historical facts laced with mystery and suspense. The authentic historical basis of the book simply engulfs you in a time warp. A must read not to be missed’The Baytown Genealogical Society, IncFor updates on Nathan Dylan Goodwin's Website & www.nathandylangoodwin.com
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2018
492 people are currently reading
344 people want to read
About the author
Nathan Dylan Goodwin
32 books625 followersAuthor of the acclaimed genre-bestselling Forensic Genealogist series, featuring Morton Farrier.
Born in the famed battle town of Hastings, England, Nathan Dylan Goodwin has always had a passion for writing in one form or another. Having gained a degree in Radio, Film and Television Studies, Nathan went on to gain a Masters degree in Creative Writing, from Canterbury Christ Church University.
Nathan started his writing career with non-fiction, his first book 'Hastings at War' being published in May 2005. This was followed by three further local history books pertaining to the area around his home town of Hastings.
His first forays into fiction writing culminated in the publication in 2013 of 'Hiding the Past' - a genealogical crime mystery novel. This was followed in 2014 by book two in the series - 'The Lost Ancestor'. Also released in 2014 was the the third, a Morton Farrier novella - 'The Orange Lilies'. The fourth book in the series, 'The America Ground' was published in September 2015, followed in September 2016 by 'The Spyglass File'. The sixth in the series, 'The Missing Man' was another Morton Farrier novella and was followed by 'The Suffragette's Secret', a short-story. 'The Wicked Trade' was the ninth instalment of the series and is a full-length novel, as is the 2020 follow-on, 'The Sterling Affair.' 'The Foundlings' followed on and 2023 saw Nathan's return to Morton's world once more in 'The Deserter's Tale'. 2025 was the chosen moment for the long-awaited 'The Hop-Picker Murders'.
The 11th November 2018 saw Nathan release the first of a second series, called Ghost Swifts, Blue Poppies and the Red Star - Mrs McDougall Investigates Book 1. This features a distant relative of Nathan's in the starring role and is set in the aftermath of the First World War.
In December 2018, Nathan created a prequel to the whole Forensic Genealogist series, in the form of a short story, The Asylum, which is available for FREE via his official website.
Nathan designed a special online choose-your-own-story for Morton Farrier fans and wrote about the protagonist's activities during the English 2020 Coronavirus lockdown. The story is currently free and is hosted on the author's website.
January 2021 saw Nathan launch a third series, Venator Cold Case Series book 1 - 'The Chester Creek Murders.' This series is a US-based spin-off from his UK-based stories and features Madison Scott-Barnhart as the lead character. October 2022 brought us the next installment of the series, 'The Sawtooth Slayer.'
In his forties, Nathan enjoys running, skiing, reading, genealogy, writing and time with his husband, son, dog and chickens.
That about sums it up!
Born in the famed battle town of Hastings, England, Nathan Dylan Goodwin has always had a passion for writing in one form or another. Having gained a degree in Radio, Film and Television Studies, Nathan went on to gain a Masters degree in Creative Writing, from Canterbury Christ Church University.
Nathan started his writing career with non-fiction, his first book 'Hastings at War' being published in May 2005. This was followed by three further local history books pertaining to the area around his home town of Hastings.
His first forays into fiction writing culminated in the publication in 2013 of 'Hiding the Past' - a genealogical crime mystery novel. This was followed in 2014 by book two in the series - 'The Lost Ancestor'. Also released in 2014 was the the third, a Morton Farrier novella - 'The Orange Lilies'. The fourth book in the series, 'The America Ground' was published in September 2015, followed in September 2016 by 'The Spyglass File'. The sixth in the series, 'The Missing Man' was another Morton Farrier novella and was followed by 'The Suffragette's Secret', a short-story. 'The Wicked Trade' was the ninth instalment of the series and is a full-length novel, as is the 2020 follow-on, 'The Sterling Affair.' 'The Foundlings' followed on and 2023 saw Nathan's return to Morton's world once more in 'The Deserter's Tale'. 2025 was the chosen moment for the long-awaited 'The Hop-Picker Murders'.
The 11th November 2018 saw Nathan release the first of a second series, called Ghost Swifts, Blue Poppies and the Red Star - Mrs McDougall Investigates Book 1. This features a distant relative of Nathan's in the starring role and is set in the aftermath of the First World War.
In December 2018, Nathan created a prequel to the whole Forensic Genealogist series, in the form of a short story, The Asylum, which is available for FREE via his official website.
Nathan designed a special online choose-your-own-story for Morton Farrier fans and wrote about the protagonist's activities during the English 2020 Coronavirus lockdown. The story is currently free and is hosted on the author's website.
January 2021 saw Nathan launch a third series, Venator Cold Case Series book 1 - 'The Chester Creek Murders.' This series is a US-based spin-off from his UK-based stories and features Madison Scott-Barnhart as the lead character. October 2022 brought us the next installment of the series, 'The Sawtooth Slayer.'
In his forties, Nathan enjoys running, skiing, reading, genealogy, writing and time with his husband, son, dog and chickens.
That about sums it up!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 13, 2018
As a Kentish Man, I enjoy these books - the character of Morton Farrier is well drawn and likeable for his weaknesses as well as his tenacity. This book does not put Morton in danger, as in some of the previous books, but the current day narrative focuses on his complicated family, having found his biological parents. The historic narrative focuses on a reasonably true depiction of smuggling on the South Kent coast in the 1820s. All in all, an enjoyable book.
March 23, 2018
Well done mystery, with great history presented in a very interesting, read-able way.
August 25, 2020
I have read and enjoyed all 9 novels in the "Forensic Genealogist" series, and this is the first one I had difficulty finishing, hence the 3 stars.
So many books I read nowadays use the dual timeline format, and this is no different to the previous tomes. This time, however, I found the present day thread a tad tedious, with the family reunions which didn't add much to the story except for the question of George's lack of empathy (to be followed up later, I expect) and a rather grotesque baddy.
The historic smuggling thread was much more interesting and I appreciate the fact that it is all based on real events and people. I used to take school groups to the Hastings Smugglers Adventure in St Clements Caves, and can remember how important it was at one time.
So, not as good as the previous novels, but I shall probably follow this series further.
So many books I read nowadays use the dual timeline format, and this is no different to the previous tomes. This time, however, I found the present day thread a tad tedious, with the family reunions which didn't add much to the story except for the question of George's lack of empathy (to be followed up later, I expect) and a rather grotesque baddy.
The historic smuggling thread was much more interesting and I appreciate the fact that it is all based on real events and people. I used to take school groups to the Hastings Smugglers Adventure in St Clements Caves, and can remember how important it was at one time.
So, not as good as the previous novels, but I shall probably follow this series further.
April 7, 2018
Best genealogical mysteries around
I have read all of Nathan Dylan Goodwin’s Forensic Genealogist series, and none of them have disappointed me. Too often, genealogical mysteries are either boring or contrived. Goodwin’s works are neither, and this latest entry offers proof of that fact.
I have read all of Nathan Dylan Goodwin’s Forensic Genealogist series, and none of them have disappointed me. Too often, genealogical mysteries are either boring or contrived. Goodwin’s works are neither, and this latest entry offers proof of that fact.
April 8, 2018
This is the 7th of Nathan Dylan Goodwin’s series and still holds the interest and intrigue of the series. The characters are more developed and more interesting because of it and the genealogy thread fascinating. Very good read!
April 14, 2018
Great story
This is another excellent book in this series with plenty to interest anyone who likes history genealogy or just a great story
This is another excellent book in this series with plenty to interest anyone who likes history genealogy or just a great story
July 4, 2022
As always, with this series, the strengths lie in the historical flashbacks and genealogical research element of the story. I really enjoy learning about some of the real history behind the book. There were no great plot twists in this one; all the elements of the story were predictable. As a result, it wasn’t as gripping as some of the others, but it still keeps you turning the pages, which I think is owing to the fact there are characters you can develop an attachment to.
As always, I feel these books could really do without the modern-day villains. Also, sometimes I feel I can see too much of the ‘working out’ of the writing process. It follows a very tick-box approach to mystery writing. For the large part, I do enjoy the real places featured, especially the ones of historical interest, but sometimes it can feel a bit like an advertisement for Rye businesses!
Morton is much more likeable in this book than in other instalments. I enjoyed his chaotic family life, but felt it could have been curtailed a bit. It felt like the main focus of the book, rather than the mystery, which could have been developed more. Jack is a lovely character, though, and Grace provides genuinely amusing comic relief, as babies often do.
It wasn’t the strongest book in the series, but it’s a light, cosy read, especially if you’re into genealogy and history.
As always, I feel these books could really do without the modern-day villains. Also, sometimes I feel I can see too much of the ‘working out’ of the writing process. It follows a very tick-box approach to mystery writing. For the large part, I do enjoy the real places featured, especially the ones of historical interest, but sometimes it can feel a bit like an advertisement for Rye businesses!
Morton is much more likeable in this book than in other instalments. I enjoyed his chaotic family life, but felt it could have been curtailed a bit. It felt like the main focus of the book, rather than the mystery, which could have been developed more. Jack is a lovely character, though, and Grace provides genuinely amusing comic relief, as babies often do.
It wasn’t the strongest book in the series, but it’s a light, cosy read, especially if you’re into genealogy and history.
March 22, 2018
Morton's new assignment leads him to researching smuggling — the Wicked Trade of the title — in Kent and Sussex in the 19th century. The story moves back and forth between Morton's research into Ann Fothergill's past, and Ann's story as she experiences it. The author seamlessly weaves his fictional characters into the actual history of the times, presently a fascinating and believable picture. The contemporary mystery is less compelling than the historical one, as the reader views it from the perpetrator's point of view, but it does add another layer to the story. The characters and their actions seem believable, the story is well-written, and hard to put down. Highly recommended.
While this can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend beginning with the first book in the series, Hiding the Past, as Morton's search for his own ancestry informs the entire series.
While this can be read as a stand-alone, I recommend beginning with the first book in the series, Hiding the Past, as Morton's search for his own ancestry informs the entire series.
February 2, 2025
I should not have taken so long to read this book. But I started it as an audio book. It has become obvious to me that I just don’t like audio books! So when I finally switched to reading rather than listening, it went fast. Goodwin is always a great read. His historical research is impeccable. The book has its own story arc that requires genealogical sleuthing to resolve. But there’s also a piece of Morton Farrier’s own story that is very endearing. I’m always looking for my next Forensic Genealogist read.
February 13, 2018
Brilliant. Once again Nathan has provided a story that keeps you enthralled. The history this story contains becomes real to the reader.
How the story unfolds let's you see that history and the present time become one. The people relate to each other. The history becomes now with the brilliance of the author that is able to bring this story to life.
How the story unfolds let's you see that history and the present time become one. The people relate to each other. The history becomes now with the brilliance of the author that is able to bring this story to life.
February 12, 2018
10stars
Another cracker from start to finish, Only put it down after being threatened by my mutinous family to feed them or else, Roll on the next NDG forensic mystery 😄
Another cracker from start to finish, Only put it down after being threatened by my mutinous family to feed them or else, Roll on the next NDG forensic mystery 😄
March 19, 2018
Mr Goodman just keeps getting better. The historical background adventures are engrossing and full of interesting historical details. The genealogical investigation is full of your favourite characters and a cast of modern day villains.
Can’t wait for the next one.
Can’t wait for the next one.
March 12, 2018
Awesome addition to the series!
I love this series. Only bad thing is I read them too fast. I'm ready for the next book Mr. Goodwin!
I love this series. Only bad thing is I read them too fast. I'm ready for the next book Mr. Goodwin!
February 21, 2018
Genealogist Morton Farrier finds himself researching the shadowy world of Georgian smugglers after a client asks him to research the life of his ancestor, Ann Fothergill. Using a letter she wrote in 1827 as his starting point, research soon points to her connection with the notorious Aldington Gang, a group from the south of England whose reputation spread far and wide. Just exactly how did Ann make her money and why is someone in the present day so interested in Morton’s work?
This is the seventh book in the Morton Farrier series and, I don’t know how he does it, but Nathan Dylan Goodwin keeps pulling it out of the bag! I’m a huge fan of genealogical fiction and it’s fair to say that while some is better than others, I would definitely put this author up there with the best. Such is my love of Morton Farrier, as soon as I realised that another book had been published, I immediately downloaded it and, despite my mounting reading pile, started to read straight away!
Like other books in the series, The Wicked Trade is told in multiple time frames, in this case the present day and the 1820s. Both parts of the story were equally as compelling and I enjoyed finding out about Ann’s life and also the research Morton took to uncover it. As a fellow genealogist, I am always interested in Morton’s visits to record offices and I am always pleased with the author’s attention to detail. Morton’s life has changed a lot since the start of the series, and since the birth of his daughter he has other commitments in addition to his job so it was good to see how he is juggling his personal and professional life.
The story of Ann Fothergill was a fascinating one and showed how it doesn’t matter the circumstances in which you were born, if there is a chance to improve your life you should take it. I found I had mixed feelings towards Ann. I admired her for her ability to turn her life around from an illiterate streetwalker to the owner of public houses but, on the other hand, her involvement with the Aldington Gang and the subsequent events left me with a nasty taste in my mouth.
I loved the historical detail in the book and it painted a great picture of how smugglers operated in the nineteenth century. The use of language that would have been spoken at the time also gave the story a more authentic feel.
There is still much to tell about Morton Farrier so I hope that another book is in the pipeline!
This is the seventh book in the Morton Farrier series and, I don’t know how he does it, but Nathan Dylan Goodwin keeps pulling it out of the bag! I’m a huge fan of genealogical fiction and it’s fair to say that while some is better than others, I would definitely put this author up there with the best. Such is my love of Morton Farrier, as soon as I realised that another book had been published, I immediately downloaded it and, despite my mounting reading pile, started to read straight away!
Like other books in the series, The Wicked Trade is told in multiple time frames, in this case the present day and the 1820s. Both parts of the story were equally as compelling and I enjoyed finding out about Ann’s life and also the research Morton took to uncover it. As a fellow genealogist, I am always interested in Morton’s visits to record offices and I am always pleased with the author’s attention to detail. Morton’s life has changed a lot since the start of the series, and since the birth of his daughter he has other commitments in addition to his job so it was good to see how he is juggling his personal and professional life.
The story of Ann Fothergill was a fascinating one and showed how it doesn’t matter the circumstances in which you were born, if there is a chance to improve your life you should take it. I found I had mixed feelings towards Ann. I admired her for her ability to turn her life around from an illiterate streetwalker to the owner of public houses but, on the other hand, her involvement with the Aldington Gang and the subsequent events left me with a nasty taste in my mouth.
I loved the historical detail in the book and it painted a great picture of how smugglers operated in the nineteenth century. The use of language that would have been spoken at the time also gave the story a more authentic feel.
There is still much to tell about Morton Farrier so I hope that another book is in the pipeline!
March 6, 2018
Brilliant
A fantast read, that holds the reader from page one. I couldn't put it down once I started to read.
A fantast read, that holds the reader from page one. I couldn't put it down once I started to read.
March 7, 2018
I love these books and can't wait for the next one
February 24, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love the way that the present is linked to the past through the medium of genealogy. As a genealogist myself, I love following the search for historic information as I do the same on a regular basis. The way the words are written, I feel I am looking over Morton's shoulder while he is working. I have always been fascinated by smuggling as it happened in my area during Prohibition. The fact that many of the events depicted in the story actually happened just adds to the enjoyment. The only downside to reading one of Goodwin's books is that I don't get any sleep once I start it as I often read the books in one sitting. I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes history, genealogy, or just a very good read.
February 24, 2018
Outstanding read
Another story I couldn't put down but forced myself to do so in order to prolong it. Always waiting for the next story about Morton Farrier.
Another story I couldn't put down but forced myself to do so in order to prolong it. Always waiting for the next story about Morton Farrier.
February 25, 2018
As always a page turner. Highly recommend. If your into family history this book is for you.
February 17, 2018
Read the whole series of Morton Farrier (The Forensic Genealogist) books and have enjoyed them for the rollicking good stories. I dabble in amateur genealogy myself and, while I cannot imagine ever being abducted or shot at for the secrets that might emerge, the stories have been entertaining and informative. Got quite fond of Morton and his convoluted biological family relationships. Amazes me how all these fictional professional genealogists are adopted and their biggest mystery is their own family history. Can't imagine where the author will go with that thread now that it is largely resolved but look forward to any more books in the pipeline. The series would also be of interest to anyone from Kent....
April 15, 2018
Totally Engaging. Brilliantly Researched.
I have read all of Nathan Dylan Goodwin's books in the Morton Farrier series, and I think "The Wicked Trade" has got to be my favourite so far. Revolving around the English smuggling trade in the early 19th century, the plot is exciting, the writing style engaging and the mystery ongoing until the very end (I love it when an author keeps you guessing). While Goodwin is always very good at blending historical events with his fictitious storylines, I found this book to be especially masterful in that regard. I also find myself getting more and more interested in the ever-unfolding family histoty of the main character, Morton himself. A great book for anyone interested in English history, genealogy, murder mysteries or forensic detective stories. As always, I look forward to the next in the series.
I have read all of Nathan Dylan Goodwin's books in the Morton Farrier series, and I think "The Wicked Trade" has got to be my favourite so far. Revolving around the English smuggling trade in the early 19th century, the plot is exciting, the writing style engaging and the mystery ongoing until the very end (I love it when an author keeps you guessing). While Goodwin is always very good at blending historical events with his fictitious storylines, I found this book to be especially masterful in that regard. I also find myself getting more and more interested in the ever-unfolding family histoty of the main character, Morton himself. A great book for anyone interested in English history, genealogy, murder mysteries or forensic detective stories. As always, I look forward to the next in the series.
April 14, 2018
Morton farrier genealogical series
I have read all of the series so far, and can not pick a favourite, indeed I have loved them all. Nathans very clear style of writing brings to life characters and storyline as clear as watching a movie. The subtle twists, guesses, the who and what did it keeps the reeders imagination lusting for conclusions. I would love to see Morton farrier brought to the small screen as a mini series, a very well done Nathan Dylan Goodwin
I have read all of the series so far, and can not pick a favourite, indeed I have loved them all. Nathans very clear style of writing brings to life characters and storyline as clear as watching a movie. The subtle twists, guesses, the who and what did it keeps the reeders imagination lusting for conclusions. I would love to see Morton farrier brought to the small screen as a mini series, a very well done Nathan Dylan Goodwin
May 4, 2018
I really enjoyed this one. I loved that this book focused a lot of Morton and his growing family and getting to know more about his biological family. The amount of time spent on the present didn't deter from the detail of the story of the past. Ann was certainly an interesting, yet very flawed person, so she made for a great story. I'll be waiting for the next one to come out!
March 28, 2018
The worst thing I can say about these books is that they end and I have to wait for the next one.
June 24, 2018
I received a review copy of this book from the author.
The Wicked Trade and The Suffragette’s Secret are the newest entries in the “Morton Farrier, Forensic Genealogist” series by Nathan Dylan Goodwin, compiled in one volume. Morton Farrier is a genealogist living in Rye, United Kingdom. His research for clients and his research into his own and his wife’s family histories inform the stories told.
In The Suffragette’s Secret, described as a short story, he pursues the history of his wife Juliette’s great grandmother, Grace Emmerson Barwise of Brighton. In a parallel story Morton and Juliette become parents of their first child. In alternate chapters, we learn Grace’s activities in the cause for women’s rights, the methods Morton employs to research her life and the stresses and joys of becoming parents.
The Wicked Trade is an exciting novel about smuggling along the southeastern coast of England in the 1820s. Morton’s client Arthur Fothergill presents documents describing his great-grandmother, Ann Fothergill. She was “sent to prison no less than 36 times” and yet became a successful businesswoman. Along with the documents was a gold guinea coin. Arthur wishes to know more about her and to find the father of her child William Fothergill. His nephew is more interested in the gold coin and the treasure that may remain hidden in Ann’s history.
The author recreates the smuggling trade using regional dialect. Morton’s research in local and national archives lead him to unusual sources such as original naval and court records, which are described in detail.
In a parallel story Morton and his wife Juliette host his biological father, his wife and Morton’s half-brother from the United States. His brother is not as enthusiastic as Morton’s father about knowing Morton. He reunites his father with his biological mother as well.
These are well-written and researched mysteries that would have great appeal for family historians as well as readers of mysteries.
The Wicked Trade and The Suffragette’s Secret are the newest entries in the “Morton Farrier, Forensic Genealogist” series by Nathan Dylan Goodwin, compiled in one volume. Morton Farrier is a genealogist living in Rye, United Kingdom. His research for clients and his research into his own and his wife’s family histories inform the stories told.
In The Suffragette’s Secret, described as a short story, he pursues the history of his wife Juliette’s great grandmother, Grace Emmerson Barwise of Brighton. In a parallel story Morton and Juliette become parents of their first child. In alternate chapters, we learn Grace’s activities in the cause for women’s rights, the methods Morton employs to research her life and the stresses and joys of becoming parents.
The Wicked Trade is an exciting novel about smuggling along the southeastern coast of England in the 1820s. Morton’s client Arthur Fothergill presents documents describing his great-grandmother, Ann Fothergill. She was “sent to prison no less than 36 times” and yet became a successful businesswoman. Along with the documents was a gold guinea coin. Arthur wishes to know more about her and to find the father of her child William Fothergill. His nephew is more interested in the gold coin and the treasure that may remain hidden in Ann’s history.
The author recreates the smuggling trade using regional dialect. Morton’s research in local and national archives lead him to unusual sources such as original naval and court records, which are described in detail.
In a parallel story Morton and his wife Juliette host his biological father, his wife and Morton’s half-brother from the United States. His brother is not as enthusiastic as Morton’s father about knowing Morton. He reunites his father with his biological mother as well.
These are well-written and researched mysteries that would have great appeal for family historians as well as readers of mysteries.
May 5, 2023
In this volume, Morton the genealogist is happily married with a young daughter, and his wife is about to return to duty as a policewoman. He takes on a case for an old man who wants to know about a female ancestor who left an intriguing letter which hinted at the presence of gold found after the letter's intended recipient had apparently gone abroad. The evidence is a single gold sovereign.
I found the framing modern day story rather confusing. There seemed to be two nephews with a fixation on the gold, though one appeared in only one scene and the behaviour of the other grew increasingly preposterous. I was also confused by the set up of Morton's family as early books had it that he was born after his birth mother had been raped - given the friendly relationship with his father, that clearly wasn't the case.
The 19th century story of smuggling was more interesting though I did think there was a huge historical "clanger" dropped early on relating to a sum of money which it was absurd that a labourer's wife would even possess let alone give away. Perhaps it was meant as a clue, but later on, the character being researched refers to seeing this person with gold in a different context rather than when she was handed the huge sum, so perhaps the scene wasn't meant that way. It was also not credible that the same money fetched so little at the pub or failed to draw interest especially since it's clear elsewhere that a drink cost a lot less. I have noticed major mistakes elsewhere in this series so it might be another failure to do thorough historical research.
The book dragged a bit and I set it aside to read another so I can only rate it as an OK 2 stars.
I found the framing modern day story rather confusing. There seemed to be two nephews with a fixation on the gold, though one appeared in only one scene and the behaviour of the other grew increasingly preposterous. I was also confused by the set up of Morton's family as early books had it that he was born after his birth mother had been raped - given the friendly relationship with his father, that clearly wasn't the case.
The 19th century story of smuggling was more interesting though I did think there was a huge historical "clanger" dropped early on relating to a sum of money which it was absurd that a labourer's wife would even possess let alone give away. Perhaps it was meant as a clue, but later on, the character being researched refers to seeing this person with gold in a different context rather than when she was handed the huge sum, so perhaps the scene wasn't meant that way. It was also not credible that the same money fetched so little at the pub or failed to draw interest especially since it's clear elsewhere that a drink cost a lot less. I have noticed major mistakes elsewhere in this series so it might be another failure to do thorough historical research.
The book dragged a bit and I set it aside to read another so I can only rate it as an OK 2 stars.
January 7, 2023
This case being investigated by genealogist Morton Farrier centers around his client's relative who lived in the early 1820's. The historical part of the story is in that time period, in the geographic are of Kent and a lot of it has to do with smuggling along the coast (the "wicked trade") which was apparently rampant at that time.
This was interesting as I had never heard how prevalent smuggling was, or how much police effort was devoted to catching smugglers. Of course, at that time in British history, trials were short and consequences were great - convicted smugglers were often hanged within days of the verdict. So, the stakes were high, but the times were tough and it wasn't that difficult to round up dozens of desperate men to help haul the smuggled goods even when they knew the risks.
The modern part of the story gives us more insight into Morton's life. His wee daughter Grace is turning one and relatives near and far are coming to celebrate with the young family, making for some awkward moments.
One of the things I like about Goodwin's books is that he gives us ideas of how to do our own genealogical research. One example here is when he writes of his character "Logging into The Genealogist website, Morton ran a search in the Tithe & Land Owner record collection for Braemar Cottage, Aldington. Receiving just one result, he clicked it and a large scale map of the village loaded before him." These nuggets give us ideas to try in our own searches.
This was interesting as I had never heard how prevalent smuggling was, or how much police effort was devoted to catching smugglers. Of course, at that time in British history, trials were short and consequences were great - convicted smugglers were often hanged within days of the verdict. So, the stakes were high, but the times were tough and it wasn't that difficult to round up dozens of desperate men to help haul the smuggled goods even when they knew the risks.
The modern part of the story gives us more insight into Morton's life. His wee daughter Grace is turning one and relatives near and far are coming to celebrate with the young family, making for some awkward moments.
One of the things I like about Goodwin's books is that he gives us ideas of how to do our own genealogical research. One example here is when he writes of his character "Logging into The Genealogist website, Morton ran a search in the Tithe & Land Owner record collection for Braemar Cottage, Aldington. Receiving just one result, he clicked it and a large scale map of the village loaded before him." These nuggets give us ideas to try in our own searches.
June 23, 2018
Ah, lovely! Another book by Nathan Dylan Goodwin and it is as compelling as always.
I love the detail of the genealogy work and the mixing of the stories of Morten's life with those of the people in history. There are really four stories going on: the tale of the smugglers in the early 19th century, the account of Morten's research to try to track down his client's relative, the quest of someone to track down a treasure - this part confused me a little but it confused Morten too so I thought that worked quite well - and the next instalment of Morten's family, in this book with both of his birth parents meeting for the first time since he was conceived. I was thinking that the historical fiction goes far beyond what Morten could have discovered by his research but that is what makes it feel real as Mr Goodwin dramatises it for us and there is no harm in that.
My only quibble was that, in the end, the results from the final stages of the research - analysing the DNA and making a decision on the father of Ann’s child - were merely reported. The research itself wasn't shown to us. However, I'm not sure how easily it would be to do that because it is quite technical analysis. Even so, I'd love to see more of it.
The quibble did not change the fact that I love this series of books and look forward to the next one.
I love the detail of the genealogy work and the mixing of the stories of Morten's life with those of the people in history. There are really four stories going on: the tale of the smugglers in the early 19th century, the account of Morten's research to try to track down his client's relative, the quest of someone to track down a treasure - this part confused me a little but it confused Morten too so I thought that worked quite well - and the next instalment of Morten's family, in this book with both of his birth parents meeting for the first time since he was conceived. I was thinking that the historical fiction goes far beyond what Morten could have discovered by his research but that is what makes it feel real as Mr Goodwin dramatises it for us and there is no harm in that.
My only quibble was that, in the end, the results from the final stages of the research - analysing the DNA and making a decision on the father of Ann’s child - were merely reported. The research itself wasn't shown to us. However, I'm not sure how easily it would be to do that because it is quite technical analysis. Even so, I'd love to see more of it.
The quibble did not change the fact that I love this series of books and look forward to the next one.
September 13, 2021
Goodwin has again succeeded in writing an interesting book, incorporating history and genealogy. The Wicked Trade is set on the southern coast of England in the 1820s, recounting the hazardous smuggling activities carried out by men, mired in poverty and desperate to feed their families. As usual, the best part of the book are the flashbacks into the past, narrating the experiences of the characters. Genealogist Morton Farrier investigates the life of Ann Fothergill, who, through her own strength of will, pulls herself out of a life of abject poverty and drunkenness to become a literate and successful owner of several pubs. Of course, this does not happen without involvement in the smuggling activities and a couple of murders. In present time, Morton's investigations are complicated by the quite humorous misadventures of his client's nephew who believes there is a cache of gold guineas to be found. While conducting his searches, Morton is also experiencing his usual emotional angst about his personal history, this time over the visit of his biological father, step-mother and half brother. And again, Morton uncovers a new little mystery in his own family tree.
June 13, 2021
I'm enjoying this English-set "forensic genealogist" historical mystery series. The historical event investigated this time involved coastal smuggling in the 1820s. The 1820s are a tough decade for English genealogical research, so I was interested to see what the steps taken would be.
Loved it! I appreciate that Morton visits local archives to get his information (I can only do this vicariously, since I'm in America). I also appreciated learning some background about how Ann Fothergill is able to purchase her inns from the bankers, given that she's from the lower classes. I have some similar situations with English innkeeper, "publican" and "victualler"ancestors, so this was interesting to me personally.
The main character, Morton, has a nice character-arc progression during the series. He's at a place now where he's getting to know his birth father's family. The present-day scenes were good, but honestly, I'm all about the historical characters and their stories. Great stuff! Looking forward to the next story in the series...
Loved it! I appreciate that Morton visits local archives to get his information (I can only do this vicariously, since I'm in America). I also appreciated learning some background about how Ann Fothergill is able to purchase her inns from the bankers, given that she's from the lower classes. I have some similar situations with English innkeeper, "publican" and "victualler"ancestors, so this was interesting to me personally.
The main character, Morton, has a nice character-arc progression during the series. He's at a place now where he's getting to know his birth father's family. The present-day scenes were good, but honestly, I'm all about the historical characters and their stories. Great stuff! Looking forward to the next story in the series...
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