England in the picturesque 18th-century era of the Spectator, Henry Esmond, the stage coach and horse pistols, is made the basis of an interesting historical romance by Georgette Heyer in The Black Moth. in workmanship and interest it is an agreeable specimen of the historical type novel. Outstanding among the scenes portrayed in the vigorous action are the ball masque, the Pump Room at Bath, and other historical sites. Belles in crinolines and beaux in powdered wigs and silk stockings furnish a picturesqueness to the various scenes. Action is centered about “The Black Moth,” a sinister figure, who wears his hair unpowdered, has other characteristic differences from the general run, and only once meets his match with a sword. There is a winsome heroine who is also the center of lively action.
The Springfield Sunday Republican (Illinois, USA), Sunday, December 25, 1921
