Very good investigation by a reporter into deaths that were brutal. Keep the reader's interest throughout, the ending was very hard to guess-in fact, I had not called it. I will read more by this author.
"Truth lies within a little and certain compass, but error is immense." Great writing drew me into this story, and the intricate maze of guilt and innocence kept my attention all the way through. If you love a good mystery in the Ruth Rendall tradition (not a cozy tale), you might like it too. Great that those on the trail are not connected to law inforcement.
Walters is something of a master of complexity. I have only read a few of her books so far but each has many twists and turns, much like real life.
Olive Martin was convicted of the murder of her sister and mother, a gruesome killing that left the bodies in pieces in the kitchen. Olive is intelligent and very large, and was known for her protection and love of her younger sister.
Rosalind Leigh, romance novelist, is pushed by her agent to do a story on Olive. Poeple want to know why Olive did it, and why she confessed. Reluctantly, Roz agrees, as her latest romance novel has not found a publisher. She seems to be out of touch so a different type book might get her name back in print.
Initially, Roz is not interested in the case, and finds Olive "disgusting". Olive is not taking care of herself and it shows. But there are little hints when Roz interviews her that there may be a story here. Olive is not particularly forthcoming and does not make it easy.
Over time, though, Roz pursues the story, both by interviews in prison and by hunting down others involved in the case. She starts to formulate a theory or two. The work is difficult because witnesses seem to contradict each other.
Throughout her investigation, Roz's mind changes back and forth. Is Olive guilty or not? Is everything in Olive's house as reported by others? What is the real story?
I found the book absorbing and interesting, and enjoyed the complications. It was hard to put down, cost me many hours of sleep.
What a treasure! Minette Walters has a gift for revealing the raw emotions that lie a scratch's depth beneath the veneer of civilization. The plot might read a bit gruesomely but it's actually an EXCELLENTLY-paced detective novel. The undercurrent of mutual attraction between Rosalind Leigh the writer-detective, left wounded by her past, and an ex-policemen with problems coming at him from all sides is masterful. This book shows you cannot judge a book by its cover, but the cover might not be the opposite of what the book contains, either... This is captivating reading, perfect for a chilly night with a hot toddy beside you.
THE SULPTRESS is an intriguing mystery about a very gruesome crime(the murder of a mother and daughter.) The author provides many clues with 'twists and turns' that will keep you reading and guessing 'who did it,' well into the night. A 'creepy' but good thriller!
1993 Edgar winner, has well developed characters (who you may or may not find likable)and an involved plot. At times almost think able to believe that the plot has been resolved and then there is another twist. This is the 2nd book written by an author that has gone to be very successful and adept at writing non-conventional plots. The action in this book can be graphic/unpleasant but well paced action. There has been a BBC mini series made of the book.
Really enjoy this author! Loved the book! Have to admit that I pondered on the ending to this book for quite some time. Worth the read if you ask me!
