This Thing of Darkness

This Thing of Darkness chronicles the real-life relationship between Captain Robert FitzRoy of HMS Beagle and naturalist Charles Darwin during their famous voyage in the 1830s. The story spans nearly four decades, following FitzRoy from his early command of the Beagle through his later years. The narrative centers on FitzRoy's complex mission to survey the South American coastline while attempting to "civilize" four native Fuegians he brings to England. Darwin joins the second voyage as the ship's naturalist, setting in motion a relationship that tests both men's beliefs about science, religion, and humanity. The novel examines the tension between faith and scientific discovery, personal loyalty and professional duty, at a time when traditional Victorian values confronted radical new ideas about human origins and progress.

Readers describe this historical novel as meticulously researched, with many noting it brings the real-life characters of FitzRoy and Darwin into sharp focus. Reviews frequently mention the book's detailed portrayal of 19th century seafaring and its examination of faith versus science. Liked: - Rich character development of FitzRoy - Historical accuracy and period detail - Balance between adventure and philosophical themes - Strong emotional impact of FitzRoy's story Disliked: - Slow pacing in middle sections - Dense scientific and naval terminology - Length (750+ pages) - Some found Darwin portrayed unsympathetically Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (2,900+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (300+ ratings) Common reader comment: "Should be better known - surprised it isn't considered a classic of historical fiction" Several reviewers noted they initially picked up the book for Darwin but became more invested in FitzRoy's narrative arc.

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🔹 The author, Harry Thompson, tragically passed away from lung cancer at age 45 shortly after completing this, his only novel, which was nominated for the Booker Prize in 2005. 🔹 Captain FitzRoy later became the founder of the Met Office and pioneered modern weather forecasting, though he ultimately died by suicide in 1865. 🔹 One of the Fuegian natives FitzRoy brought to England was named Jemmy Button, so-called because he was "purchased" for a single mother-of-pearl button from his tribe. 🔹 Charles Darwin was not the Beagle's first choice of naturalist - he was only invited after the original candidate declined the position. 🔹 Despite their eventual ideological differences over evolution, FitzRoy and Darwin shared a cabin on the Beagle for five years and maintained a friendship for many years after the voyage.