This is the maiden voyage for this series which involves a young police detective, Murdoch, who is gifted in the sciences. It takes place in Toronto in the 1890's and the principle character uses methods that are far beyond the normal scope of a routine police officer. There are some stretches here. The story begins with a big controversy as to whether the Alternating Current is dangerous to society which has relied strictly on battery power to this point. Even that is new technology. During a demonstration of the evils of AC, the woman who pulls he switch during that demonstration is electrocuted. Murdoch sets about trying to do what police do. He is fortunate for who should be on the scene but Nicola Tesla, one of his heroes. The involve themselves with electrical experiments that help to explain what happened to the young woman and why. We are also introduced to other characters who will involve themselves with Murdoch. There is also a little romance thing between a young female suspect and Constable Crabtree. He is an ingratiating character and the byplay is good fun.
