For the reader this book is a comfortable reunion with Richard Jury and the usual cast of characters PLUS a very clever plot based on the Hitchcock film Vertigo. Remarkable that Martha Grimes is still writing good mysteries after so many years.
The Old Jury is back! Martha Grimes is going back to her original style and it's a good mystery!
Andrew K. (kuligowskiandrewt) -
It took me awhile to get into "Vertigo 42". The book is the 23rd book in Martha Grimes' "Richard Jury" series; it's the first one I've picked up, but the author takes the shortcut of assuming that the reader has already read the previous 22, or at least some of them. (In fairness, many series authors take the same short-cuts on character introductions in books and television series.) As such, it took me much longer to become emotionally invested in the characters than might a regular reader of this series.
The mystery itself did (eventually) worm its way into my psyche, and I found myself eagerly awaiting the reveal and conclusion, as opposed to the simple end of the book which is what I was feeling in the first part of the book.
I do not suggest this book as an introduction to the series and the author. However, I saw enough interesting things to suggest I give the author another chance with an early book in this series.
RATING: 3 1/2 stars, rounded up to 4 stars where 1/2 stars are not permitted.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book in a random draw, without obligation.
The mystery itself did (eventually) worm its way into my psyche, and I found myself eagerly awaiting the reveal and conclusion, as opposed to the simple end of the book which is what I was feeling in the first part of the book.
I do not suggest this book as an introduction to the series and the author. However, I saw enough interesting things to suggest I give the author another chance with an early book in this series.
RATING: 3 1/2 stars, rounded up to 4 stars where 1/2 stars are not permitted.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of this book in a random draw, without obligation.
I am a hugh fan of Martha Grimes and always enjoy her work. This was a very interesting story taking you from a twentysome year old mystery to the current year. Certainly kept me involved. Loved it.
