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A review by caomhin
No Other Darkness by Sarah Hilary
5.0
A powerful, clever book that draws you in.
As is often the way with new books I opened it up for a quick look at what I could expect. That was dangerous. The prologue sucked me in like a whirlwind.
The handful of chapters that followed seemed tame, almost anti-climactic in fact, as the story was built up. It feels harsh saying that because they're perfectly good, it's just those opening lines are so intense you can't help but notice things slow down considerably. The story builds again very gracefully though. After the introductions and some background I found myself once more absorbed, and by the climax of the book I was aware I wouldn't want to put it down.
The plot takes you on a wild ride. Hilary drips clues at you allowing you to piece together the events just before she reveals them. As the plot unravels surprises lurk in the shadows. A wonderfully written mystery.
And the writing is easily accessible too. You don't need forensic knowledge of the Met or London. The author doesn't rely on obtuse language or inside knowledge to give the book excessive depth. It is a remarkably light read in that regard, making it far too easy to keep consuming - it's like popcorn, you keep reaching for more until you suddenly realise just how much you've devoured in one sitting.
I expected this to be a good book to read on the bus or train, and that would work, but just to allow yourself time to plough on I'd say this is a great airport/airplane novel. Maybe even one for the beach or beside the pool. You don't need to invest lots to find the qualities of this book.
A great read, definitely a book to pick up if you like your mysteries to keep you on your toes.
A complimentary copy of this book was supplied for review by the publisher as part of the "First Reads" program.
As is often the way with new books I opened it up for a quick look at what I could expect. That was dangerous. The prologue sucked me in like a whirlwind.
The handful of chapters that followed seemed tame, almost anti-climactic in fact, as the story was built up. It feels harsh saying that because they're perfectly good, it's just those opening lines are so intense you can't help but notice things slow down considerably. The story builds again very gracefully though. After the introductions and some background I found myself once more absorbed, and by the climax of the book I was aware I wouldn't want to put it down.
The plot takes you on a wild ride. Hilary drips clues at you allowing you to piece together the events just before she reveals them. As the plot unravels surprises lurk in the shadows. A wonderfully written mystery.
And the writing is easily accessible too. You don't need forensic knowledge of the Met or London. The author doesn't rely on obtuse language or inside knowledge to give the book excessive depth. It is a remarkably light read in that regard, making it far too easy to keep consuming - it's like popcorn, you keep reaching for more until you suddenly realise just how much you've devoured in one sitting.
I expected this to be a good book to read on the bus or train, and that would work, but just to allow yourself time to plough on I'd say this is a great airport/airplane novel. Maybe even one for the beach or beside the pool. You don't need to invest lots to find the qualities of this book.
A great read, definitely a book to pick up if you like your mysteries to keep you on your toes.
A complimentary copy of this book was supplied for review by the publisher as part of the "First Reads" program.