This review was originally part of the New Books Magazine Blog Tour.
Ian McFadyen was an unknown writer to me despite being prolific, this story is apparently the eighth of the Inspector Carmichael mysteries This was one of those delightful books that initially offered no particular expectations. Indeed the title suggested a dark, messy thriller but the book turned out to be a gripping paradox of a crime story. Paradox? Well in spite of the fact that it is set in modern times with mobile phones, internet searches, forensic sophistication, PNC, SOCO etc. it reads like a detective tale of old. Some solid, almost old fashioned policing that strikes a balance with the modern methods available. A small village where the police team are tight, loyal, efficient and tenacious this complex and convoluted crime is policed and investigated systematically and methodically. For the reader that is a boon because it is easy to keep on top of events without having to scratch your head and keep referring back.
Ian McFadyen was an unknown writer to me despite being prolific, this story is apparently the eighth of the Inspector Carmichael mysteries This was one of those delightful books that initially offered no particular expectations. Indeed the title suggested a dark, messy thriller but the book turned out to be a gripping paradox of a crime story. Paradox? Well in spite of the fact that it is set in modern times with mobile phones, internet searches, forensic sophistication, PNC, SOCO etc. it reads like a detective tale of old. Some solid, almost old fashioned policing that strikes a balance with the modern methods available. A small village where the police team are tight, loyal, efficient and tenacious this complex and convoluted crime is policed and investigated systematically and methodically. For the reader that is a boon because it is easy to keep on top of events without having to scratch your head and keep referring back.
The narrative sparkles along, offering clues aplenty, some are red herrings, that certainly make the reader think. We are led down some garden paths but never allowed to roam lost. And in spite of the number of dead bodies and violence it never presents as a dark, soulless read. The myriad characters who make their exits and entrances throughout the story bring the narrative to life with their intrigues and personalities.
A nice, topical little sub plot using Inspector Carmichael’s daughter allows a seamless segue into the main plot using character and event which then can be jettisoned for the most part as the objective has been achieved. Neatly done, Mr. McFadyen!
It’s a substantial tome but with an easy accessible style that sees the pages fly by you as you read on and on to find out when, where, why and who ‘dunnit’! One thing did bug me though and I have to give it voice and that was the amount of detail about the case Inspector Carmichael divulged to his wife, Penny. It seemed contrary to his character. He presented as somebody who goes largely by the book. And the details of a case are confidential even to the nearest and dearest aren’t they?
I can see this book translating well to the little screen as a series like Line of Duty maybe. There’s enough substance in it. And I think that was part of its appeal - there was a familiarity about it. Not in the sense that it was predictable or formulaic but, again paradoxically, given that it is a crime story, there was a subtle and underlying warmth that pervaded the book.
Now if you’ll excuse me I’m off to the library to get my hands (no blood) on some more Inspector Carmichael stories.
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