I like a good quote and here are some of my favorites from this book: By including quotes from Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, the author draws parallels between the Edison/Westinghouse rivalry and the rivalries we see among some of today’s big tech companies. Each short chapter begins with a quote from both historical as well as modern day inventors. The layout of the book is also an effective tool for conveying what’s involved in the art, science and business of “inventing”.

Who knew patent law and the science of electricity could be so exciting! What ensues is a lot of intrigue and subterfuge that make this story into a good legal thriller that includes corporate espionage, attempted murder and plenty of double crossing. Additionally, Paul feels he has much to prove and isn’t opposed to using some sketchy means to win his cases. The results of the legal battle will have significant financial consequences and potentially determine the standards that will be used as electrical systems are rolled out across the country. Paul is charged with the unfortunate task of fighting the 311 patent-related lawsuits that Edison has filed against Westinghouse. However, the main character in this story is Westinghouse’s young attorney, Paul Cravath.

We get a glimpse of their personalities, methods and character. Three of these men – Edison, Westinghouse and Nikola Tesla – have prominent roles in this novel. All of this inventiveness was happening in a short period of time and being driven by a handful of men. The technological advances – the telephone, the lightbulb, x-rays, etc – were breathtaking in their ingenuity as well as their potential impact on every day life. This period in American industry is remarkable. The Last Days of Night actually a very interesting and well crafted story. Based on that description, you might be thinking *yawn*, but stay with me! The Last Days of Night is a novel based on the battle between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse to establish some of the standards for the emerging electricity infrastructure during the late 1880’s. (This in no way affects the honesty of my reviews!) All commissions will be donated to the ALS Association. As an Amazon Associate I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. This post may contain Amazon Affiliate links.

The last days of night book