The Black Book
ISBN: 9780752883571
Description
When a close colleague is brutally attacked, Inspector John Rebus is drawn into a case involving a hotel fire, an unidentified body, and a long forgotten night of terror and murder. Pursued by dangerous ghosts and tormented by the coded secrets of his colleague's notebook, Rebus must piece together a jigsaw no one - perhaps not even he - wants completed.
Reviewed on 29th March 2013
The fifth Rebus novel admits in its introduction that the author has realised that this is now a series, and its clear from the narrative as an array of characters return from previous novels, and the regular cast is rounded out with a number of new allies and antagonists. If anything, it almost reaches the point where there are too many characters to keep an eye on, and several times I found myself struggling to remember who one was.
The plot is remarkably simple when you wrap your head around it, as Rebus's team maintain a stakeout with Trading Standards and investigate a random stabbing. There are a lot of elements and twists which blend together well to create a satisfying mystery.
The story of Rebus personal life also continues and is actually one of the most fun aspects of this book, as he develops relationships with a surprising set of cohabitants. Rebus is a great character and I really enjoy reading about his thoughts and escapades.
A great book from almost all corners which I've really enjoyed reading. I'm glad that there's plenty more in the series to look forward to.
