Reviews

The Ruin by Dervla McTiernan

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I’ve already read all of Tana French’s mystery novels, so when I went looking for a mystery/thriller to read before a trip to Ireland, I wanted to try a new-to-me author. I am so glad I branched out and gave Dervla McTiernan a chance! The Ruin, for my money, is every bit as good as the Dublin Murder Squad series. At the beginning of the book, Cormac Reilly is a wet behind the ears cop who responds to a call where a woman has overdosed, leaving her two children alone in a crumbling mansion in the middle of nowhere. Years later, one of the children from that incident turns up dead himself. Reilly is now in Galway, relegated to cold cases and feeling some ennui about his career. The two cases may be connected, and Reilly seems to be the only one willing to take a closer look. I found this book extra compelling because it deals with people in power doing corrupt shit, and it all felt very #relevant. I’ve already added the sequel to my list.

leasummer's review

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3.0

This was kind of a slow start for me, I couldn’t really get into it. I found the dynamics at the police station to be really annoying and seemed over the top for the dramatic factor. The story picks up about the half way point and the last quarter of it is quite good for a thriller. I’m not sure I’ll continue on with the series but I’m glad it ended better than it began.

I really enjoyed the narration on this.

stephasaurous's review against another edition

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dark mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

ashleyrosehaden's review against another edition

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dark mysterious sad tense

4.0

ozziemarie's review

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3.0

I don’t remember much of this and I barely read it yesterday

bookshop_b's review

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5.0

I don’t usually love crime novels but this was awesome!

and_cats's review

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dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

raytheron's review

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4.0

Excellent read! I thoroughly enjoyed the book. The characterisation is good, and the storyline keeps one entranced. I love the subtle hints at the denouement. Highly recommended.