nietzschesghost's review
5.0
Having loved his Stevens and Windermere mystery series I was eager to dive into Laukkanen's brand new series of which Deception Cove in the first instalment, and it certainly didn't disappoint. This is a first-rate, clever crime thriller which is fast-moving with more twists than a pretzel bag and the writing is so wonderfully crisp that the pages almost turn themselves. It's an absorbing and gripping read in which the ominous atmosphere builds and builds to a stifling crescendo. The setting of Cascadia (Pacific Northwest) in a small town devoid of opportunities also adds to the claustrophobia which the author conjures up so well.
The story is complex with multiple threads that all merge as the book progresses. The main characters Mason and Jess are both broken people but for very different reasons. Their paths cross in an entirely unexpected way and they effectively team up against a common foe. This is a fiercely compelling read with suspense aplenty and a setting that is both harsh and beautiful. Above all, this book illustrates the power of animal companions to change the lives of their owners, and I loved that message. The bond between canine Lucy, Jess and Mason is heartwarming to experience and a unique idea for a crime thriller.
I hope this series raises Mr Laukkenens profile considerably as it is clear he is a master storyteller, but so far I don't feel he has had the attention he truly deserves. Many thanks to Mulholland Books for an ARC.
The story is complex with multiple threads that all merge as the book progresses. The main characters Mason and Jess are both broken people but for very different reasons. Their paths cross in an entirely unexpected way and they effectively team up against a common foe. This is a fiercely compelling read with suspense aplenty and a setting that is both harsh and beautiful. Above all, this book illustrates the power of animal companions to change the lives of their owners, and I loved that message. The bond between canine Lucy, Jess and Mason is heartwarming to experience and a unique idea for a crime thriller.
I hope this series raises Mr Laukkenens profile considerably as it is clear he is a master storyteller, but so far I don't feel he has had the attention he truly deserves. Many thanks to Mulholland Books for an ARC.
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