Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Child 44 by Tom Rob Smith

T R S's first novel, well reviewed in Sunday Times and then a birthday pressie from Sheila who hadn't seen the review - coincidence. Detective drama with a harrowing theme (serial child murder) and a stunningly portrayed setting in post-Stalinist russia. A good thriller and a terrific insight into everybody's life in that crazy era (the farce of trying to eat and live in those conditions, and not only do your neighbours betray you, you partner will. Sound like 1984?). My only problem was that it was the book I took into hospital with me on 19 May - not a good time to read something as harrowing as this. But I did, eventually, and it is a good read. Sheila has now bought me his second novel. . . . watch this space.

8/10

No comments: