1.5 rounded up to 2 stars. I didn’t care for it and was overall just unimpressed. ( )

I enjoy this series more with each book. It may be familiarity, or it may be the author getting in to the flow better, but I'm glad there's plenty more to read ( )

Rankin creates a vulnerable, human character in Rebus and several other familiar and likeable types. Enough intrigue and possibility to keep you guessing to the end - but it doesn't quite hang together. ( )

Detective Inspector John Rebus is loaned to the London police because they are dealing with a mystifying serial killer and he has the reputation of being able to solve such crimes. Never mind that the reason he had solved one such case (detailed in Knots and Crosses) was its extremely personal nature, London authorities figure he has a special way of working that will stand him in good stead. Also never mind that the London coppers are resentful of an outsider being brought onto their turf, or that Rebus not only must deal with the case but also must pay some attention to his ex-wife and teenage daughter, who now live in London; never mind that his daughter is dating a rather dodgy older boy…. I’m enjoying the Rebus series as an antidote to the many cozy mysteries that I’ve been reading lately; not only are they suspenseful, but they are also quite literate, something we no longer find that often in mysteries since ratcheting up the gore seems to be the order of the day at present. These books *are* gory, but Rebus is an interesting character, full of contradictions and doubts; and I’m happy to know that I have many more books in the series to read! Recommended. ( )

The first two Rebus books were good, this one was great. A clever, beautifully revealed mystery, a gripping plot, a smattering of very well written action, just the right amount if humour and a superb protagonist. ( )