A clever and original novel. Through the historical fiction set against the more sinister aspects of the former Communist state of East Germany the author can raise contemporary issues in a unique way.
David Young writes with insight and fictional liberty to combine fact with what ifs and challenge political assumptions and reveal policing in a conflicted state.
Young’s brilliant detective is female, not so unusual in this socialist regime but deemed too young and inexperienced, placed under duress further by being over-promoted and set up for a crash.
Unfortunately, she has the heart and mind of a thorough investigator, she cannot by side-tracked or silenced. So, the secret police desiring an unopposed approach to law and order through fear and threat have a strong adversary believing in justice and truth.
This is played out cleverly as Karin Müller is at heart a loyal socialist and faithful public servant.
In this case she is confronted by the Stasi riding rough shod over personal choice and morality to advance the state goals to the detriment of individual freedom and political fair play.
Interwoven into this compelling plot is the tension of one of their own, being potentially caught up in the conspiracy and life being in grave danger.
I loved the writing as in the previous 2 books in this series. I would happily have given it a higher rating but for the confusing chronological sequencing which at times made for a confusing and disruptive reading experience. However, I am sure when I re-read this novel the quality of the author’s skill and accomplishment will shine through. I look with increased anticipation to book 4 as Karin life becomes more confusing and uncertain even as she discovers her own upbringing. You feel revelations are coming and you worry for this courageous woman and loving mother.
David Young writes with insight and fictional liberty to combine fact with what ifs and challenge political assumptions and reveal policing in a conflicted state.
Young’s brilliant detective is female, not so unusual in this socialist regime but deemed too young and inexperienced, placed under duress further by being over-promoted and set up for a crash.
Unfortunately, she has the heart and mind of a thorough investigator, she cannot by side-tracked or silenced. So, the secret police desiring an unopposed approach to law and order through fear and threat have a strong adversary believing in justice and truth.
This is played out cleverly as Karin Müller is at heart a loyal socialist and faithful public servant.
In this case she is confronted by the Stasi riding rough shod over personal choice and morality to advance the state goals to the detriment of individual freedom and political fair play.
Interwoven into this compelling plot is the tension of one of their own, being potentially caught up in the conspiracy and life being in grave danger.
I loved the writing as in the previous 2 books in this series. I would happily have given it a higher rating but for the confusing chronological sequencing which at times made for a confusing and disruptive reading experience. However, I am sure when I re-read this novel the quality of the author’s skill and accomplishment will shine through. I look with increased anticipation to book 4 as Karin life becomes more confusing and uncertain even as she discovers her own upbringing. You feel revelations are coming and you worry for this courageous woman and loving mother.