The Calling of the Grave

One thing I became aware of, after reading the first 4 books of the series, is that in each book, David Hunter is played by his own mind. He’s aware of something but can’t quite place it. A thought or scene triggers something in his mind, but gone as fast as it came. Only to be connected later in the story. They appear once, but never at the same time or page; they usually fit in where the investigation is close to taking another turn. For better or worse remains to be seen. I experienced this like a riddle. At what point in the story it would appear, and where it might lead. A lot of times I try to decipher it myself, only with minimal success. Later on, when the dots get connected, my thoughts would wander back to that moment, curious if my assumption was right. This riddle-like quality, the forensic inputs and Dr Hunter’s ability to always put himself in precarious situations make it an enjoyable read. Some people in the stories might hate his approach, but he’s getting results, and the people who stand by him are aware of that and wouldn’t let him down.

Simon Beckett ist immer dann am Besten, wenn er David Hunter Tatorte und Leichen untersuchen lässt. Leider kommt das in diesem Buch kaum vor. Das Buch ist über weite Strecken vorhersehbar und die Charaktere verhalten sich manchmal einfach doof. Schon ganz zu Beginn, als sie nach weiteren Gräbern suchen. Es ist ja ab und zu ganz gut, wenn man als Leser mehr weiss, als die Charaktere. Wenn die allerdings erst ganz am Ende des Buches auf etwas kommen, was man ganz zu Anfang schon geahnt hat, dann ist das schon etwas ärgerlich.