by

Michael Connelly

 8 out of 10

Clever, intelligent writing with a couple of twists.

Connelly has broken away from his usual characters and taken us into the world of future nano-technology interspersed with the seedy life of USA corporate life, pornography and prostitution.

How far would you go to see if a stranger was okay? Henry Pierce takes us out out to find who is Lilly and gets more than he bargains for. The reader will find themselves yelling to Henry from time to time to get over it and how can a scientist be so stupid. As well, you will be yelling for him to 'get out of there' as he wanders in and out of places he shouldn't. Your anxiety for Henry will be palpable and for some it will be overwhelming.

There is some violence and a little lust though our character seems to have the constitution of a Schwarzenegger rather than Einstein. The main focus remains though on the central character playing detective and getting burnt in the process.

Connelly probably lost a few friends in the police force over this one as he plays to the stereotypes of  'finding the sucker to lay the blame on' rather than justice for all. He comes round with some peace offerings at the end but I am not sure that will find him the blessings from the force that he might desire - maybe this is life in USA as it really is.

Its a cleaver story and while you might think you know it all you will not. There are plenty of twists in the tail to make you more than satisfied. I wonder if we will see more of Henry Pierce in years to come - he certainly should have a spot with Sherlock and Watson -maybe Harry and Henry!

© David K. Evans (2005)

Open Encyclopaedia Project