The Infernal Machine: A True Story of Dynamite, Terror, and the Rise of the Modern Detective - Book reviews of The Infernal Machine: A True Story of Dynamite, Terror, and the Rise of the Modern Detective

'The Infernal Machine: A True Story of Dynamite, Terror, and the Rise of the Modern Detective' book reviews

Review for'The Infernal Machine: A True Story of Dynamite, Terror, and the Rise of the Modern Detective'

The Infernal Machine: A True Story of Dynamite, Terror, and the Rise of the Modern Detective by author Giles Milton is a riveting historical non-fiction that delves deep into the world of late 19th and early 20th-century terrorism and the consequent evolution of police work. In this intricately researched narrative, Milton chronicles the use of dynamite as a weapon of terror and the subsequent international efforts to combat the growing threat. This book is an engrossing study of the interplay between technological advancements and the methods of law enforcement that arose in response to them.

Milton begins by tracing the origins of dynamite, a seemingly benign invention by Alfred Nobel, which quickly became the tool of choice for anarchists and revolutionaries across the world. The book's narrative is anchored around the 1894 bombing of the Greenwich Observatory in London, an event that shook the nation and became a pivotal moment in the history of terrorism and criminal investigation. The author skillfully juxtaposes the progress of scientific innovation with the darker side of its misuse, creating a compelling backdrop for the emergence of modern detective work.

The book shines in its portrayal of the detectives and police officials who found themselves in an unprecedented battle against an invisible and highly unpredictable enemy. Milton delves into the lives of these early detectives, notably Inspector William Melville of Scotland Yard, whose pioneering work laid the foundations for contemporary investigative techniques. The reader is given a front-row seat to the painstaking process of evidence gathering, surveillance, and the use of forensics, which were in their infancy at that time. Through detailed accounts, Milton illustrates how these early methods of detection, some of which were borrowed from the world of espionage, became the standard for police forces everywhere.

One of the most intriguing aspects of The Infernal Machine is the global scope of the narrative. Milton doesn't confine his tale to London; instead, he takes us on a journey through Europe and across the Atlantic to America, where dynamite terrorism was spreading fear and chaos. By doing so, he paints a picture of a world grappling with the dark side of industrial progress and globalization, a theme that resonates with contemporary issues of technology and security.

The book is not without its occasional detours into the personal lives of the characters involved, which sometimes slows down the narrative. While these moments provide depth to the individuals, at times they can feel like a distraction from the central story. However, Milton's prose is engaging and accessible, making the complex subject matter digestible for a wide range of readers, from history buffs to those interested in the origins of modern law enforcement.

In conclusion, The Infernal Machine is a comprehensive and illuminating account of a transitional period in history, where the old world met the new in a violent clash. Giles Milton's meticulous research and storytelling prowess make it a standout work that not only informs but also entertains. The book serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with technological innovation and the timeless struggle to maintain order in the face of those who seek to disrupt it. For anyone interested in the history of terrorism, the evolution of police work, or the societal impacts of technological advancements, The Infernal Machine is a must-read.

Similar BooksMore