Mortal Causes : Book Review

The sixth book in the Inspector Rebus series, "Mortal Causes" by Ian Rankin, takes readers on a thrilling journey through the seedy underbelly of Edinburgh amidst the backdrop of the city's famous festival. This crime novel dives deep into the dark world of criminal gangs and their connections to political extremism, creating an intricate and compelling narrative.

The story revolves around a series of apparent sectarian killings that have the city on edge. Rebus, the relentless detective, finds himself entangled in a complex network of old and new rivalries between various factions. But his main focus is on solving the murder of a young woman with ties to the IRA. As tensions rise and the body count mounts, Rebus must confront his own personal demons while making difficult choices to bring justice to those responsible.

Ian Rankin expertly weaves together multiple plot threads, immersing readers in a captivating and multi-layered story that keeps them engaged from start to finish. His descriptive writing brings to life the vibrant atmosphere of Edinburgh during the festival, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. The city itself becomes a character, with its history and cultural clashes playing a significant role in the unfolding events.

Rebus is a complex and flawed protagonist, making him relatable and compelling. Readers can easily connect with his struggle to balance his personal life with his professional responsibilities. As an investigator, his relentless drive to uncover the truth shines through, even if it means putting his own life on the line.

"Mortal Causes" is a gripping and atmospheric crime novel that will have readers hooked until the very end. With well-developed characters, a intricate plot, and its exploration of complex societal issues, Ian Rankin once again proves his mastery of the genre. Fans of gritty and realistic crime fiction will be enthralled by this thrilling addition to the Inspector Rebus series.

What are readers saying?

Ian Rankin's book "Mortal Causes" has received a wide range of reviews from readers, with some praising its intricacies and skillful writing, while others found it lacking in depth.

Many readers were captivated by the complex and engaging plot of "Mortal Causes." They enjoyed the twists and turns, as well as the well-researched historical background that intertwines with the modern-day setting. The fast pace and unpredictability of the story kept these readers engaged, making it difficult to put the book down.

The character development in the novel also received positive feedback from some reviewers. They appreciated the depth and nuances of the characters, finding them to be relatable and well-crafted. The interactions between the protagonist, Inspector John Rebus, and a variety of supporting characters were particularly praised for their realism and contribution to the overall narrative.

However, there were some readers who felt that "Mortal Causes" lacked depth and failed to fully engage them. They found the plot to be confusing at times, with too many unresolved subplots. These reviewers believed that the historical elements overshadowed the main storyline, making it challenging to stay invested.

Furthermore, a few readers expressed disappointment with the pacing of the novel. They felt that although the story started strong, it lost momentum as it progressed. These slower parts affected their overall enjoyment and made it feel like a slog to get through at times.

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