This was a truly intriguing read. Firstly, because of the person about whom the book is about: Arthur Bernard Leckie. He was a prominent figure in Hoover’s FBI with links to Marilyn Monroe and, like the famous film star, died suspiciously. I mean, if that doesn’t grab your attention, then I don’t know what will, especially if you love a conspiracy theory.
Secondly, the book is written by his grandson, Scott Leckie and there is a sense of Scott trying to connect with the grandfather who he never knew, despite the fact that they probably would not have had many world views in common. This adds an extra element, a personal one which permeates the book and Scott’s voice is ever present in his observations and his commentary, some of it quite humorous so that although you feel like he is invested in investigating his grandfather, Scott’s style is more that of a curious observer rather than someone who is likely to be shaped by what he discovers.
Unfortunately, Scott does not have a lot to go on in order to establish the sort of man his grandfather was. But don’t let that fool you into thinking that this is a read with very little fodder: the way that this book unfolds is well done throughout. Scott Leckie takes the evidence that he has been able to acquire and examines each individual piece, sharing with us his insights and his reflections. This is also presented within the context of the time and I have learnt an inordinate amount about Hoover, the fears and concerns of Americans and the means used to uncover and collate information in order to stem the Communist threat. Add to this some Hollywood glamour and other famous names and you have an enthralling read.
And what is also good about this book is that you can speculate with Scott about what his grandfather’s life was about. He has enough in the form of letters and newspaper cuttings and photos (a lot of which he shares so you can see them too) to make a picture of his grandfather but this picture is blurred and indistinct. In the theorising is the enjoyment. Scott is asking “Who was this man, my ancestor?” and you’re with him as he tries to make sense of what he’s found.
A truly interesting read.
Rachel Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
This review was first published on Reedsy Discovery where I was privileged to read it as an ARC.
Scuffed Granny 