Mosman Readers

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His Bloody Project by Graeme Macrae Burnet

This book has been described as literary crime by some but it is also an expose of the crofting system in mid 19th century Scotland. In 1869 Roderick Macrae is charged with the brutal slaying of three people in a remote crofting community.

In His Bloody Project, author Graeme Macrae Burnet recounts the story of the murders and the subsequent trial.

The story is recounted via Roderick’s memoir, court transcripts, medical reports, police statements and newspaper articles. Therefore the writing style reflects the time in which the novel is set. Roderick admits to the crime however his lawyer puts together a strong defence to try to save him from the gallows.

We wonder why Roderick doesn't defend himself more vigorously, or try to cover up the crime? There are questions about his sanity and his motive.

Throughout the book we wonder will he hang for the murders. I would recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction as well as lovers of crime.