Bangkok Tattoo : Book Review

"Bangkok Tattoo" is an exhilarating crime novel penned by the talented author, John Burdett. The gripping narrative takes place in the bustling and corrupt city of Bangkok, where readers are introduced to Sonchai Jitpleecheep, a distinctive Thai police detective with a unique perspective on life and crime. When the murder of a foreigner, bearing a tattoo of black hearts on his body, shakes the city, Sonchai is assigned to the case. As he delves deeper into the investigation, Sonchai comes across a labyrinth of dark secrets that implicates the underbelly of Bangkok, the sex trade, and influential figures within society.

Burdett's writing is enthralling, effortlessly immersing readers into the seedy and chaotic world of Bangkok. The author's vivid descriptions transport readers to the lively streets, fragrant markets, and layers of corruption that define the city. Through the eyes of Sonchai, readers are provided with a gritty and authentic glimpse into Thai culture and society, as well as the delicate balance between tradition and modernity.

Sonchai Jitpleecheep himself is a captivating and complex character. Balancing his devout Buddhist beliefs with the challenges of being a half-Thai, half-foreign detective, Sonchai grapples with personal demons while seeking justice. Burdett expertly crafts Sonchai's character, blending his spiritual convictions with his experiences in navigating Bangkok's underworld, resulting in a morally ambiguous yet ultimately likable protagonist.

The plot of "Bangkok Tattoo" is a relentless and unpredictable journey that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Burdett masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, each filled with intrigue, suspense, and surprising twists. In addition to the thrilling murder investigation, the book delves into themes of identity, cultural clashes, and the corrosive nature of power.

In summary, "Bangkok Tattoo" is a compelling and immersive crime novel that offers an intricate exploration of both the dark underbelly and vibrant essence of Bangkok. With well-developed characters, a captivating plot, and a richly portrayed setting, John Burdett solidifies himself as a master of the crime genre. This book is essential reading for fans of crime fiction and anyone intrigued by the intersection of culture, crime, and spirituality.

What are readers saying?

John Burdett's novel "Bangkok Tattoo" has generated a range of responses from readers. As the second installment in the Sonchai Jitpleecheep series, the book delves into the seedy and gritty underbelly of Bangkok, Thailand.

Many readers lauded the book for its unique setting and captivating plot. They appreciated Burdett's vivid descriptions of Bangkok, which allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the city's atmosphere. The author's thorough research into Thai culture and customs was also widely praised, as it lent an authentic feel to the story. Readers found it difficult to put the book down due to its fast pace and intriguing plot twists.

However, some readers found the book excessively graphic and disturbing. The explicit and violent scenes depicted in the story may unsettle sensitive readers. Additionally, a few readers felt that the plot was convoluted and difficult to follow, missing the charm and depth of the previous installment in the series, "Bangkok 8".

Despite these contrasting opinions, readers overwhelmingly appreciated the character development in "Bangkok Tattoo". The protagonist, Sonchai Jitpleecheep, was regarded as a captivating and multifaceted character. His struggles with morality and personal relationships added depth to the story and made him relatable. Furthermore, the supporting characters were also well-developed, enhancing the overall narrative.

Another aspect that received positive feedback was Burdett's ability to infuse humor into the dark storyline. This blending of suspense and comedy provided moments of relief and levity within the intense plot. The author's use of witty dialogue and observations added an entertaining element to the book.

BangkokTattoo CrimeFiction ThailandMystery