Research

By: Philip Kerr

Narrated by: Nigel Carrington

Houston publishes so many books a year that he can't possibly write them himself. He has a ghost team; writers, agents, publishers. So when he takes a year out to write something of quality, a novel that will win prizes, a lot of people stand to lose their livelihoods. Now Houston, the prime suspect in his wife's murder, has disappeared. He could be anywhere and there are many who'd like to find him.

©2014 Philip Keer (P)2014 W F Howes Ltd

Critic reviews

"A high-concept novel tackled in unabashed fashion." ( Independent)

"A cracking thriller ... the story unfolds at a white-knuckle pace with a sense of the unknown that is genuinely disturbing." ( The Times)

Well written Book Of Bastards.

There wasn’t a single likable male character in this book, and the female characters cardboard cutouts waiting to be victimized. Philip Kerr is a brilliant writer, but this is not his best work, although very well read.

Terrific Dialogue

Enlivened by extraordinary narration. I listen to a lot of audio books & Nigel Carrington’s character differentiation and development in this story is extraordinary. Which frankly is the breath of life for the book as it is comprised almost entirely of dialogue. The story is compelling, twisty and well paced — only diminished by its end which seemed a terrible let down after such a strong lead-up. Almost like the author had written himself into a corner and just gave up. Kerr is a great writer though and the wit and sparkle of the dialogue and plotting are well worth the credit!

Superior

The superior literary quality is evident from page one. It is replete with references to the work of other writers which I found lends depths of meaning. The story line is beautifully ironic, including that it is written in a style that the author defines as not being commercially successful. The narration is unparalleled. There are elements of Byron’s “My Last Duchess” as the true nature of the protagonist is revealed layer by layer. After the end, there is much to ruminate over. Mr. Kerr’s ability as a writer is exceptional.

Great mystery/thriller - great performance

Great story. Really enjoyed the twists and the inherent irony. The reading was one of the best I've heard so far.

First non Bernie book I've tried

Huge fan of The Bernie Gunther series and not disappointed by this title at all