The Scoundrel Harry Larkyns By Rebecca Gowers

The astonishing true story of a nineteenth-century scoundrel and his murder at the hands of photographer Eadweard Muybridge, a founding father of cinema

SHORTLISTED FOR THE HWA NON-FICTION CROWN

Diamond thief, guerrilla fighter, spy, decorated hero, bohemian rogue and lover of several notorious women - all describe Major Harry Larkyns. Yet he has long been dismissed as merely a liar and a cheat, famous only for being shot dead in 1874 by the unnerving photographer Eadweard Muybridge. But has history properly understood either the killer or his victim? Part biography, part crime investigation, THE SCOUNDREL HARRY LARKYNS uncovers some extraordinary truths, and is historical detective work at its finest.

'One of the best books of the year' Irish Times
'Strange, brilliant, quirky and illuminating' Country Life
'A story that is as eventful as it is tragic' Guardian
'A masterpiece of historical detective work' Keith Lowe

Book Information

Format: Paperback

Published: 2020

Genre: History, Biography

Pages: 384

Dimensions: 196 x 128mm