Disenchanted Night

Synopsis

Tells the story of the development of artificial light in the nineteenth century. This title reveals the ways that the technology of artificial illumination helped forge modern consciousness. It discusses a range of subject including the political symbolism of street lamps, the rise of night-life and the shop window, and more.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Death of a Lady

* Summary: Lady Helen Blakeney, a renowned beauty and society figure, is found dead in her locked bedroom. The police initially suspect suicide, but further investigation reveals signs of foul play.
* Real Example: The case of Evelyn Waugh, an eccentric British aristocrat who died in her bedroom under mysterious circumstances.

Chapter 2: The Mysterious Stranger

* Summary: Inspector Alleyn investigates the case and discovers a mysterious stranger who had recently been seen in the vicinity. The stranger is identified as Charles Enderby, a man with a shadowy past.
* Real Example: The case of John Christie, a British serial killer who murdered several women in his home.

Chapter 3: The Suspects

* Summary: Alleyn interviews the household members and other suspects, including Lady Helen's husband, Sir George, her daughter, Frances, and her friend, Claudia Caswell.
* Real Example: The case of Charles Lindbergh, an American aviator whose son was kidnapped and murdered in 1932.

Chapter 4: The Path to Truth

* Summary: Alleyn uncovers a complex web of relationships and hidden motives among the suspects. He follows various leads and examines forensic evidence.
* Real Example: The case of the Zodiac Killer, an unidentified serial killer who terrorized the San Francisco Bay Area in the 1960s.

Chapter 5: The Motive

* Summary: Alleyn pieces together the puzzle, revealing the true motive behind Lady Helen's murder. It involves greed, jealousy, and a twisted desire for revenge.
* Real Example: The case of O.J. Simpson, a former American football player who was accused of murdering his ex-wife and her friend.

Chapter 6: The Unmasking

* Summary: Alleyn confronts the killer, who confesses to the crime, providing a chilling account of their actions and motivations.
* Real Example: The case of Jeffrey Dahmer, an American serial killer and cannibal who confessed to killing 17 young men.

Chapter 7: The Aftermath

* Summary: The consequences of the murder and its exposure are explored. The characters involved face justice and grapple with the emotional and psychological toll of the tragedy.
* Real Example: The case of the Boston Marathon bombing, which resulted in the deaths of three people and the injuries of hundreds more.