I have become addicted to Peter Robinson's excellent series of Inspector Banks novels. In Banks himself, Robinson has created a fascinating, likable but flawed, well-rounded detective, who I find to be just as engaging as Michael Connelly's Harry Bosch (I started reading the Banks books when I ran out of Bosch books, and I find the Banks series to be just as enjoyable as the Bosch series). The supporting cast is also extremely well characterized, both the regulars and the one-offs, from the young and talented Detective Constable, the Neanderthal and sexist Detective Sergeant, to the sleazy purveyor of under-the-counter pornography who is persuaded to help with the investigation through not exactly by-the-book techniques.
This book has a compelling and ingenious plot, with several twists and turns, and one or two major surprises. The book wasted no time in starting the action, from the very first sentence:
"The uniformed constable lifted the tape and waved Detective Chief Inspector Banks through the gate at two forty-seven in the morning".
Banks and his colleagues are summoned to a farm to investigate the execution-style murder of an accountant. The victim at first appears to be a classic accountant type, gray and boring, but the investigation uncovers a whole other side to him. The pacing is perfect, and held my interest so much that I read this book in 2 days, which seems to be a pattern for me with the Banks books.
I enjoy the Yorkshire setting of these books; it is a pleasant change from familiar locations like Los Angeles. Robinson makes you feel as though you are there, with his depictions of the scenery , the places, the pubs, the people, and snippets like "'Bloody hell, Alan', he said by way of greeting, 'tha looks like Columbo!'"
I have not been reading the Banks novels in the correct order; I started our by reading the most highly reviewed books in the series (like "In a Dry Season"), but this has not really been a problem for me. Robinson does not assume any previous knowledge on the part of the reader.
I am happy that there are still several books in this series that I have not yet read. Now, on to the next one.......
Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime
Try Prime
and start saving today with fast, free delivery
Loading your book clubs
There was a problem loading your book clubs. Please try again.
Not in a club? Learn more
Join or create book clubs
Choose books together
Track your books
Bring your club to Amazon Book Clubs, start a new book club and invite your friends to join, or find a club that’s right for you for free.
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Discover the latest buzz-worthy books, from mysteries and romance to humor and nonfiction. Explore more
Frequently bought together
$7.69
Get it as soon as Wednesday, Apr 3
In Stock
+
Total price:
To see our price, add these items to your cart.
Choose items to buy together.
Similar items that may deliver to you quickly
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
About the author
Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in the United States on March 14, 2011
Reviewed in the United States on December 30, 2022
Reviewed in the United States on November 16, 2020
Reviewed in the United States on March 20, 2016
Top reviews from other countries
Stuart Nutt
The best Banks story yet
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on March 7, 2024
