A dazzling debut, a gripping, panoramic novel of magic and science, love and death set in 1920s America
A dazzling debut, a gripping, panoramic novel of magic and science, love and death set in 1920s America
Charles Carter, dubbed Carter the Great by Houdini himself, was born into privilege but became a magician out of need: only when dazzling an audience can he defeat his fear of loneliness. But in 1920s America the stakes are growing higher, as technology and the cinema challenge the allure of magic and Carter's stunts become increasingly audacious. Until the night President Harding takes part in Carter's act only to die two hours later, and Carter finds himself pursued not only by the Secret Service but by a host of others desperate for the terrible secret they believe Harding confided in him.
Seamlessly blending reality and fiction, Gold lays before us a glittering and romantic panorama of our modern world at a point of irrevocable change.“With elements of the whodunnit and, crucially fo a book about magic tricks, the howdunnit, this is a four-course meal of a novel”
Engaging, comical and, yes, magical, this is a sure-fire contender for the debut novel of the year. - Christian House, Independent on Sunday
Mesmerising ... the plot turns a dazzling array of somersaults ... Savour its every page - Graham Caveney, IndependentA top-hat-and-tails performance...suspenseful, compendious, moving and persuasive - Michael ChabonIt's refreshing to see an author so obviously into his characters and debut novelist Glen David Gold radiates enthusiasm in his tale of magician Charles Carter, implicated in the death of 29th US president Warren Harding. What's most unbelievable about this stagey set-up is that it's based on actual events. The droll, good-natured narrative never stumbles over 600 pages and Gold's characters, the endearingly troubled Carter at the top of the bill, sit so naturally in the proceedings they positively seem to enjoy being part of his show. Encore please! - The FaceA magnificent achievement. The plot is endlessly inventive and surprising and pulls the reader through some very complicated events in the most compelling way. - Charles PalliserAn extraordinary story ... a daredevil feat of writing that will remind you how much fun reading can be - Helen Brown, Daily TelegraphBrilliantly inventive and constantly surprising ... you're unlikely to read a better book this year. - EveA stormer of a novel, this- the perfect read for people who despise airport blockbusters yet find themselves on aeroplanes longing for a good, meaty page turner - The GuardianGlen David Gold was born in Hollywood and raised in San Francisco where he began his life-long love of the strange and dazzling aspects of history. Carter Beats the Devil is his first novel.
Charles Carter, dubbed Carter the Great by Houdini himself, was born into privilege but became a magician out of need: only when dazzling an audience can he defeat his fear of loneliness. But in 1920s America the stakes are growing higher, as technology and the cinema challenge the allure of magic and Carter's stunts become increasingly audacious. Until the night President Harding takes part in Carter's act only to die two hours later, and Carter finds himself pursued not only by the Secret Service but by a host of others desperate for the terrible secret they believe Harding confided in him.Seamlessly blending reality and fiction, Gold lays before us a glittering and romantic panorama of our modern world at a point of irrevocable change.
This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.