Book Review: "Thunderstruck" by Erik Larson

Erik Larson novels are great and I have read my fair share of them. These include recent reads like Dead Wake and then less recent reads like The Devil in the White City. I think his books are excellent works of the nonfiction novel. They are philosophically compelling and often give us an insight into a particular case that we have not had the liberty of being introduced to before in true crime or in documentary format. So let's take a look at this book entitled Thunderstruck which covers in some ways, the Dr Crippen case...

The story begins with Guglielmo Marconi, a brilliant and determined Italian inventor obsessed with harnessing the invisible waves of wireless communication. Marconi’s journey starts in Bologna, where he experiments in his family’s attic, working tirelessly to perfect his rudimentary technology. Despite scepticism from scientific elites, Marconi’s relentless ambition drives him to demonstrate the practical applications of his invention. He faces repeated setbacks, including technical failures, derision from established scientists, and competition from rival inventors like Nikola Tesla. Nevertheless, Marconi establishes the Marconi Wireless Telegraph Company and secures financial backing from prominent investors, solidifying his role as a trailblazer in communication technology. This opens up a huge scope in the book and I think it really sets a great stage for intertwining two very compelling stories.

Simultaneously, Larson introduces Hawley Harvey Crippen, a mild-mannered homeopathic doctor living in London with his flamboyant and domineering wife, Cora. Crippen’s life is characterised by quiet dissatisfaction. His marriage is marked by tension and neglect, as Cora prioritises her aspirations for a career in the theatre over her husband’s feelings. Crippen, longing for affection, begins an affair with Ethel Le Neve, his young and devoted secretary. Their illicit relationship remains a secret for some time, but it becomes a catalyst for the tragedy that will unfold. I read the novel that John Boyne wrote about Dr Crippen entitled Crippen and that really gave me a good background before making my way into this novel, making sure I was all set - and there were no horrific surprises.

As Marconi’s wireless technology gains prominence, he achieves a significant breakthrough by successfully transmitting messages across the Atlantic Ocean, a feat that cements his reputation as a visionary. His invention revolutionises communication, providing an invaluable tool for maritime safety and global connectivity. However, Marconi’s success comes at a personal cost. He becomes increasingly isolated, consumed by his work and embroiled in patent disputes. His strained relationships with colleagues and family members reveal the human toll of his genius. In contrast to Marconi’s rise, Crippen’s life spirals into chaos. Cora’s suspicions of his infidelity deepen their marital rift, leading to frequent arguments. One fateful evening, Cora disappears. Crippen claims that she has returned to America, but her sudden absence raises questions among her friends and neighbours. These suspicions grow when Crippen moves Ethel into his home, and the couple behaves as though Cora never existed. These two contrasts are absolutely brilliant, they really get the story going in different directions and make for a great pace for the book.

The narrative intensifies as Scotland Yard becomes involved. Inspector Walter Dew, a meticulous and determined investigator, is assigned to the case. A search of Crippen’s house uncovers human remains buried in the cellar. Forensic analysis suggests foul play, and Crippen becomes the prime suspect. Realising the gravity of his situation, Crippen flees with Ethel, disguising her as his son. They board the SS Montrose, bound for Canada, believing they can evade capture.

At this juncture, the two narrative threads converge dramatically. Marconi’s wireless technology plays a pivotal role in Crippen’s pursuit. The captain of the SS Montrose, suspicious of his passengers, uses the ship’s Marconi wireless system to send a message to Scotland Yard, alerting them to Crippen’s whereabouts. This marks one of the first uses of wireless communication in law enforcement, showcasing the practical and transformative impact of Marconi’s invention. The two stories converge in a great way, Erik Larson really brings both stories alive in the most compelling way. Both stories have protagonists who go through a down and an up, one thinking he's got away with everything and yet - there are some things he simply does not know.

All in all, this book is the perfect read for getting into a case like Crippen's whilst also maintaining the reading about the case itself. There are so many great things about the experience of reading this book and only one of them happens to be the incredible storyline. Read it for yourself and find out.