The Uttermost Farthing: A Savant's Vendetta

"The Uttermost Farthing: A Savant's Vendetta" by R. Austin Freeman is a crime novel about a genius named Humphrey Challoner, whose world shatters when his wife is murdered. A well-respected expert in criminal anthropology, Challoner becomes obsessed with getting revenge on the killer, which results in morally questionable choices as he mixes his scientific knowledge with his thirst for vengeance. The book begins from the perspective of his friend, Dr. Wharton, who recounts Challoner's history, showing him as a strange but talented man who was once famous in his field but now lives an isolated life surrounded by reminders of his loss. Challoner plans to challenge the criminal world and settle a "debt" with his wife's murderer. With its frightening elements, like his collection with human remains, the book sets a dark tone that shows the character's inner struggles.