A historical non-fiction narrative, the work interweaves the stories of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago and a concurrent series of murders by Dr. H.H. Holmes. The dual narrative structure presents a juxtaposition of the grandeur and progress embodied by the World’s Fair with the depravity and darkness occurring simultaneously in the same city.
Its significance lies in its ability to capture a pivotal moment in American history, showcasing both the optimism of the Gilded Age and the unsettling undercurrents of societal change. It provides a detailed account of the fair’s planning, construction, and impact, while simultaneously exploring the chilling crimes of one of America’s first documented serial killers. The book offers readers a glimpse into the social, cultural, and technological landscape of the late 19th century, providing valuable historical context.