An Unkindness of Ravens

Inspector Wexford

ISBN: 1-55690-538-6 Order from: Recorded Books

A well-designed mystery with a number of red herrings and observations of social interaction in England in the eighties, the novel lacks suspense due to a detached tone and lack of engaging characters.

Reviewed by David on November 15, 2000

Genre: Mystery (Police Procedural)

Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of An Unkindness of Ravens.

Chief Inxpector Wexford initially tends to discount a report of a missing husband. However, when signs of possible foul play appear, Wexford starts to suspect that rather than running off with a mistress, the missing man may no longer be alive.

With a number of possible suspects, but no evidence, Wexford and his staff have a long and tedious investigation in front of them.

Full Review: While the characters in this police procedural are well drawn, none are deeply enough portrayed to engage one's interest. While feeling respect for Wexford, and occasional exasperation, puzllement and admiration for his suspects, the feelings evoked by the observant and detached plot are too slight for a truly good adventure.

The plot in general is satisfying, although the red herrings thrown in the Inspector's way seem too deliberate to be completely plausible. The resolution, delicately telegraphed, is chillingly plausible as it repeats at least one well-publicised case.

Occasional expositions by Wexford are at times irritatingly smug, pehaps intentionally so to complete his image of a decent, intelligent, intuitive but imperfect policeman. As a mystery novel, this book works well. However, its lack of excitement leaves significant room for improvement.

Overall: 5.5; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 5.5; Style: 6; World-building: 5; Originality: 5;

ISBN: 1-55690-538-6 Order from: Recorded Books