Book Review: A Study in Death

Reviewed By: Jon Jordan - Crime Spree Magazine - RAM

A Study in Death     Amazon US HC Amazon UK PB Amazon Canada HC
Iain McDowall
Class/Genre:   Fantasy
Thomas Dunne/St. Martins; 2001

In this first book by Iain McDowall, we are introduced to Detective Sergeant Kerr and Detective Chief Inspector Jacobsen. The two detective procedural works quite well when done right, and McDowall does it right. The two detectives are different enough that they give the story a nice balance, and they work well together. McDowall also does a wonderful job with his depiction of Crowby, the town in which the series takes place. Such a good job in fact, that I actually looked for it in an atlas before I found out it was fictional. It sure felt real to me.

In this first book, we ride along with Jacobsen and Kerr as they track down the killer of Dr. Roger Harvey, a bachelor professor. The case proves to be difficult as there are no real enemies or suspects. But as the book unfolds we see the detectives struggling with problems of their own which are only made worse by their frustration with the murder.

The book moves at a wonderful clip, with no slow bits to interrupt the pace of the story. It is also quite believably put together. But the best part is characters in the book. McDowall has a wonderful talent for bringing all the people in his book to life.

I finished this book in two sittings, only stopping when I could not keep my open any longer. I eagerly await book two, and three...

Jon Jordan - Crime Spree Magazine - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Jon Jordan - Crime Spree Magazine - RAM