Pullman's novel is written in the style of a melodrama with the stock characters of the noble hero, the coldblooded villain, and the virtuous heroine. While Sally Lockhart fills the role of the heroine, Jim and Frederick assume the roles of the heroes with some assistance from the Reverend Bedwell.

Mrs. Holland and Hendrick Van Eeden are cast as the primary villains.

Throughout the book are the typical melodramatic elements of emotional scenes, impossible situations, and dramatic chases. Also woven into the story is a look at the social evils of the time.

Cliffhangers at the ends of chapters are reminiscent of the works of serial writers of the 1800s such as Charles Dickens.

The novel consists of two parallel plots that are closely intertwined. It is only when both are joined in the excit ing conclusion that the events of the novel and the actions...