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The China Thrillers #2
Il quarto sacrificio
La città di Pechino è sconvolta da una serie di atroci omicidi. Ogni vittima porta al collo un cartello numerato in ordine decrescente. Le vittime hanno in comune solo l'età, cinquant'anni, e la frequentazione, in gioventù, della stessa scuola superiore. L'ultima vittima è stato Yuan Tao, un diplomatico con passaporto americano. Il detective Li Yan con la patologa Margaret Campbell indagano su questi omicidi, e pezzo dopo pezzo i due riescono a svelare i contorni di un atroce mosaico, un dramma sbocciato nel clima di follia e barbarie della Rivoluzione Culturale.
381 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2000
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 296 reviews
August 27, 2016
This is the second of the China series by Peter May. This is an engaging crime thriller set primarily in Beijing. There is a great sense of location, with descriptions that make you feel as if you are right there. A major plus for me was the archaeology, history and culture of China, from ancient, the Terracotta Army, the more recent such as the Cultural Revolution and the Red Guards, to the present in terms of cultural references to the Single Child Policy by presenting how it affects the characters in the book. An anguished Margaret Campbell, a forensic pathologist from Chicago, is on the cusp of leaving with a broken heart when she is requested to carry out an autopsy on a Chinese American state department employee. The man has been beheaded. There have been a series of horrific murders of whom the others are Chinese.
Detective Li Yan has been in charge of the murders of the Chinese. Margaret had fallen in love with him but he had been threatened with losing his job if their relationship continued. The two of them find themselves working together in an understandably tense and awkward manner initially to get to the bottom of the mystery. Indeed, a celebrity American archaeologist, Michael, is rather keen on Margaret. They discover that the four victims attended the same school. As Li and Margaret edge ever closer to the truth, they are getting closer in proximity to a dangerous killer who will do anything to prevent the discovery of their secrets and identity.
A well plotted story where I was particularly interested in what motivated the murderer. We find that the past infiltrates the present as a killer seeks retribution. The insights into China and its history are woven expertly into the novel. A recommended read. Thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
Detective Li Yan has been in charge of the murders of the Chinese. Margaret had fallen in love with him but he had been threatened with losing his job if their relationship continued. The two of them find themselves working together in an understandably tense and awkward manner initially to get to the bottom of the mystery. Indeed, a celebrity American archaeologist, Michael, is rather keen on Margaret. They discover that the four victims attended the same school. As Li and Margaret edge ever closer to the truth, they are getting closer in proximity to a dangerous killer who will do anything to prevent the discovery of their secrets and identity.
A well plotted story where I was particularly interested in what motivated the murderer. We find that the past infiltrates the present as a killer seeks retribution. The insights into China and its history are woven expertly into the novel. A recommended read. Thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
August 25, 2020
This is probably not one of Peter May's best books but it was still an entertaining read. There is plenty of excitement and a reasonable mystery and he writes it all well.
I had a few issues with the character of Margaret who is seriously unlikeable. May does not write romance very well and I did not believe in either of her relationships. Those parts of the book left me cold. Nevertheless I enjoyed the Chinese setting, the police work and the forensics.
I probably will not continue with this series now since it appears Margaret and Li continue their strange relationship in the next book which would just make me cross:)
I had a few issues with the character of Margaret who is seriously unlikeable. May does not write romance very well and I did not believe in either of her relationships. Those parts of the book left me cold. Nevertheless I enjoyed the Chinese setting, the police work and the forensics.
I probably will not continue with this series now since it appears Margaret and Li continue their strange relationship in the next book which would just make me cross:)
March 12, 2022
This is the second book in the 'China Thrillers' series and a little bit frustrating. Dr Margaret Campbell is still in China when a series of decapitations occur and she is asked for an opinion by the Chinese police. Once again she is drawn into the world of Li Yan and the tension between them is quite palpable.
Crime aside, Margaret soon discovers a whole lot more about Chinese culture and history. This book explores the events around the Cultural revolution and the current series of murders appears to be tied to this.
A book that was up and down in terms of the characters, but still with an intriguing plot and a lot of interesting Chinese history. I am looking forward to seeing what plays out between Margaret and Li Yan in book three.
Crime aside, Margaret soon discovers a whole lot more about Chinese culture and history. This book explores the events around the Cultural revolution and the current series of murders appears to be tied to this.
A book that was up and down in terms of the characters, but still with an intriguing plot and a lot of interesting Chinese history. I am looking forward to seeing what plays out between Margaret and Li Yan in book three.
August 31, 2016
The Fourth Sacrifice is the second of Peter May’s China Thrillers. Upon finishing The Firemaker, the first, I concluded it was another series I would need to follow. After finishing this one, I’m more than a little bit excited to get my hands on the rest of the series. I’m well and truly addicted, pulled into the series and desperate to see where things will go.
You see, Peter May has been a favourite author since I picked up his Lewis trilogy. The Lewis trilogy will always be my favourite of his books, I have yet to find another that reaches the high of The Blackhouse, but they have all been consistently great reads. He is one of those authors I will always pick up, as I know I’m going to get something good. The same is true of this one: The Fourth Sacrifice is a great read.
As with the first book, we’re offered up a great mystery set in China. It is your classic detective story, only difference being the setting. Rather than dealing with the west, we are based in the east. Anyone who has picked up a Peter May book will know that he is more than capable of bring any place alive. He is great when it comes to the description of a location, even if you have never been there you can easily imagine it through his words. In this one, the end of the century China is easily brought to life, allowing us to imagine what it was like.
Truthfully, I think I enjoyed this one a little bit more than the first.
As with the first book, certain things were predictable. I feel as though this is merely an aspect of Peter May’s early work, before he reached the high he gave us with the Lewis trilogy. This isn’t a bad thing; it simply means there isn’t a massive shock when the bad guy is revealed. You still have the twists and turns, the subterfuge and red herrings, but if you read a lot of crime thrillers you’re going to work things out. There are some specifics that guess work will fail to give, but certain aspects will be clear. Nevertheless, the story is still a great one. There are plenty of connections that you are trying to make, your mind constantly working to unravel every aspect of the story.
Moreover, I came to enjoy the characters more in this one. I enjoyed them in the first, but I couldn’t help but feel as though certain aspects seemed a little bit on the forced side. With this one, we delve even deeper in the personal lives of the two main characters, watching the events unfold, seeing how their interaction differs to the first book. For me, I found it to be a lot more fun that the first one. There was more of the battling of views that I enjoyed so much in the first one, along with a fun mix of emotions brought on from the events of the first book. All in all, it worked to ensure I enjoyed the characters even more – and whilst I have an idea of where things will go, I cannot wait to watch the specifics play out in future books.
As I’ve already mentioned, I’m so ready to carry on with this series. It’s proving to be a lot of fun, and I cannot wait to see where everything goes. I doubt it will knock the Lewis trilogy off the spot of my favourite Peter May work, but the series is certainly crawling slowly up my list of favourite Peter May books.
As a final note, I would like to say the biggest thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to enjoy this one.
You see, Peter May has been a favourite author since I picked up his Lewis trilogy. The Lewis trilogy will always be my favourite of his books, I have yet to find another that reaches the high of The Blackhouse, but they have all been consistently great reads. He is one of those authors I will always pick up, as I know I’m going to get something good. The same is true of this one: The Fourth Sacrifice is a great read.
As with the first book, we’re offered up a great mystery set in China. It is your classic detective story, only difference being the setting. Rather than dealing with the west, we are based in the east. Anyone who has picked up a Peter May book will know that he is more than capable of bring any place alive. He is great when it comes to the description of a location, even if you have never been there you can easily imagine it through his words. In this one, the end of the century China is easily brought to life, allowing us to imagine what it was like.
Truthfully, I think I enjoyed this one a little bit more than the first.
As with the first book, certain things were predictable. I feel as though this is merely an aspect of Peter May’s early work, before he reached the high he gave us with the Lewis trilogy. This isn’t a bad thing; it simply means there isn’t a massive shock when the bad guy is revealed. You still have the twists and turns, the subterfuge and red herrings, but if you read a lot of crime thrillers you’re going to work things out. There are some specifics that guess work will fail to give, but certain aspects will be clear. Nevertheless, the story is still a great one. There are plenty of connections that you are trying to make, your mind constantly working to unravel every aspect of the story.
Moreover, I came to enjoy the characters more in this one. I enjoyed them in the first, but I couldn’t help but feel as though certain aspects seemed a little bit on the forced side. With this one, we delve even deeper in the personal lives of the two main characters, watching the events unfold, seeing how their interaction differs to the first book. For me, I found it to be a lot more fun that the first one. There was more of the battling of views that I enjoyed so much in the first one, along with a fun mix of emotions brought on from the events of the first book. All in all, it worked to ensure I enjoyed the characters even more – and whilst I have an idea of where things will go, I cannot wait to watch the specifics play out in future books.
As I’ve already mentioned, I’m so ready to carry on with this series. It’s proving to be a lot of fun, and I cannot wait to see where everything goes. I doubt it will knock the Lewis trilogy off the spot of my favourite Peter May work, but the series is certainly crawling slowly up my list of favourite Peter May books.
As a final note, I would like to say the biggest thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to enjoy this one.
March 22, 2019
The murder mystery and police procedural part is fine. But this book just dies when it gets to Margaret. She’s unpleasant /unlikeable anyway and the lengthy descriptions of her being romanced by the archaeologist/filmmaker sink the book. And as before there’s too much extraneous tourist description. May should drop the romance (which he’s not very good at) and just center these books on the interesting character of Li. Also no man ever tells a woman how he puts on scent. . .just saying if you’re looking for a clue.
July 24, 2016
This is the 2nd book in the series 'The China Thrillers' by the talented author Peter May.
I have always enjoyed the writing of Peter May and find his novels full of well developed characters that come to life on the page. I am enjoying this series for the same reason but also for the insight into China and its culture. The book is well written with a decent plot but there is so much more to it with the relationships between the main characters and the ongoing sub plots.
Margaret Campbell is a Chicago forensic pathologist who is desperate to leave Beijing and get away from Detective Li Yan, the Chinese policeman with whom she fell in love. But before she leaves she is asked by the American Ambassador to perform an autopsy on an American state department employee who was found beheaded. Margaret's relationship with Detective Li Yan finished when he was ordered not to contact Margaret or he could lose his job but they are pushed together again when they are both investigating the beheading.
I do enjoy thriller series and found this another fascinating read and I already have the remaining 4 books in the series to read.
I have always enjoyed the writing of Peter May and find his novels full of well developed characters that come to life on the page. I am enjoying this series for the same reason but also for the insight into China and its culture. The book is well written with a decent plot but there is so much more to it with the relationships between the main characters and the ongoing sub plots.
Margaret Campbell is a Chicago forensic pathologist who is desperate to leave Beijing and get away from Detective Li Yan, the Chinese policeman with whom she fell in love. But before she leaves she is asked by the American Ambassador to perform an autopsy on an American state department employee who was found beheaded. Margaret's relationship with Detective Li Yan finished when he was ordered not to contact Margaret or he could lose his job but they are pushed together again when they are both investigating the beheading.
I do enjoy thriller series and found this another fascinating read and I already have the remaining 4 books in the series to read.
June 24, 2023
One of the standout aspects of this book is how May seamlessly integrates the social and political backdrop of China into the narrative. He explores issues such as corruption, censorship, and the clash between tradition and modernity, offering a thought-provoking glimpse into contemporary Chinese society.
I think, I kinda love that!
I think, I kinda love that!
May 22, 2020
I am DNF'ing this book and this series. I love all the other Peter May books I've read, but I just can't get into this series. I really wanted to read the series to learn more about China, but I'd rather read a dry history book than this series. The lead female, Margaret Campbell, is so unpleasant. There is also far too much focus on romantic angst rather than the actual murders. Sorry, Mr. May, this series is just not my cup of tea.
August 7, 2018
Really couldn't get into this book, I tried, read about half way. Which is strange for a Peter May. The story, characters really didn't grip me at all. I shall stick to his stories based in the Highlands, I don't know why, I just not for me.
February 19, 2022
Many Goodreads reviewers disliked the character of pathologist Margaret Campbell in the first book of this series--but I found her fairly interesting and forgave her her over-reactions and snap judgments. This time, though, I got seriously tired of her. She is a highly respected pathologist from Chicago, with years of brilliant experience behind her, and yet she is only 31 years old. Did she start medical school when she was 15? Regardless of whether that's true, she has remained at that age emotionally, and she is eventually simply annoying. Even the police investigation in this one gets nowhere--the cops, for all their careful work, are stymied until, literally, a clumsy accident by a package handler at the Beijing airport a few pages from the end makes everything clear. The murderer is utterly unexpected and not especially believable. But there are fascinating descriptions of life in Beijing, and this one includes much lore about the terracotta army, along with horrifyingly vivid stories about Mao's cultural revolution.
August 12, 2015
Trošku se mi nechce udělovat hvězdičky. Už u předchozího dílu jsem měla pocit, že čtu úplně blbou knížku, ale čtu ji s obrovskou chutí.
Kdyby se Rosamunde Pilcher rozhodla psát romantické detektivky, nesahala by v tomto oboru Mayovi ani po kotníky. Normálně jsem mu to sežrala tak, jako naposledy Stanislavu Rudolfovi (později už byla červená knihovna pod moji vysokou úroveň;)). Mlátila jsem se v tom spolu s Margaret jako za mlada :)
Dál jsem se toho opět dozvěděla docela dost o Číně, tentokrát by to bylo na doktorát o terakotové armádě.
A ta detektivka? No... Pro vlastní přesné vyšetření případu v průběhu moc indicií nedostanete, ale těch pár je tak do očí bijících, že není pochyb, kdo je padouch a kdo hrdina. A bez indicií by k tomu postačila i trocha intuice ;)
Dvě hvězdičky by byly pro tu detektivku možná moc přísné. Jako červená knihovna to je klidně na čtyři, ale fuj, to bych se musela stydět, některé věci se veřejně nepřiznávají.
Kdyby se Rosamunde Pilcher rozhodla psát romantické detektivky, nesahala by v tomto oboru Mayovi ani po kotníky. Normálně jsem mu to sežrala tak, jako naposledy Stanislavu Rudolfovi (později už byla červená knihovna pod moji vysokou úroveň;)). Mlátila jsem se v tom spolu s Margaret jako za mlada :)
Dál jsem se toho opět dozvěděla docela dost o Číně, tentokrát by to bylo na doktorát o terakotové armádě.
A ta detektivka? No... Pro vlastní přesné vyšetření případu v průběhu moc indicií nedostanete, ale těch pár je tak do očí bijících, že není pochyb, kdo je padouch a kdo hrdina. A bez indicií by k tomu postačila i trocha intuice ;)
Dvě hvězdičky by byly pro tu detektivku možná moc přísné. Jako červená knihovna to je klidně na čtyři, ale fuj, to bych se musela stydět, některé věci se veřejně nepřiznávají.
July 24, 2017
After a great start with the Fire Maker, this second book in the China series was disappointing. The weak plot meandered about and there was too much emphasis on Margaret's love life at the expense of the plot. The Margaret character has become so disagreeable, I felt it detracted from the story line which was weak anyway.
August 10, 2007
THE FOURTH SACRIFICE (Police Procedural-Li Yan/Margaret Campbell-China-Cont) – Good
May, Peter – 2nd in series
Thomas Dunne Books, 1999, UK Hardcover- ISBN: 9780423364649
First Sentence: By now he knows he is going to die.
*** Chicago forensic pathologist is anxious to leave Beijing and the Chinese policeman with whom she fell in love but hasn’t heard from since their return to the city when she is asked by the American Ambassador to perform an autopsy on an American state department employee found beheaded. Detective Li Yan has been ordered not to contact Margaret or he could lose his job and is investigating the beheading death of two Chinese when he is thrown in contact with Margaret. In spite of he friction between them they need to find the killer before more people die.
*** May’s first book “The Firemaker,” was plot-driven and very suspenseful. This book, is character-driven and doesn’t work as well. The relationship problems are based on the cliché “big misunderstanding’ that five minutes of conversation could have resolved. There are rather large holes in the plot of information it’s hard to believe the protagonists wouldn’t have known. The villain was apparent very early in the story. What I did really enjoy about the book, and made it worth reading, is the incredible sense of place May provides the reader, cultural look at present day China and fascinating information on its history. In spite of its flaws, I enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone with an interest in China.
May, Peter – 2nd in series
Thomas Dunne Books, 1999, UK Hardcover- ISBN: 9780423364649
First Sentence: By now he knows he is going to die.
*** Chicago forensic pathologist is anxious to leave Beijing and the Chinese policeman with whom she fell in love but hasn’t heard from since their return to the city when she is asked by the American Ambassador to perform an autopsy on an American state department employee found beheaded. Detective Li Yan has been ordered not to contact Margaret or he could lose his job and is investigating the beheading death of two Chinese when he is thrown in contact with Margaret. In spite of he friction between them they need to find the killer before more people die.
*** May’s first book “The Firemaker,” was plot-driven and very suspenseful. This book, is character-driven and doesn’t work as well. The relationship problems are based on the cliché “big misunderstanding’ that five minutes of conversation could have resolved. There are rather large holes in the plot of information it’s hard to believe the protagonists wouldn’t have known. The villain was apparent very early in the story. What I did really enjoy about the book, and made it worth reading, is the incredible sense of place May provides the reader, cultural look at present day China and fascinating information on its history. In spite of its flaws, I enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone with an interest in China.
May 6, 2025
(3.5*) This was a slight step down from the previous novel in the series for me. The relationship side of the novel didn't engage me as much this time around and while the case they're investigating is interesting enough, the culprit was pretty easily identified and I spent almost half the story ahead of the protagonists.
I did enjoy it enough to give it 3.5 stars, and I feel generous enough to round up this time
I did enjoy it enough to give it 3.5 stars, and I feel generous enough to round up this time
November 16, 2021
Way better than the first book!
October 15, 2017
Another excellent addition to the China Thrillers... I think I've definitely found a new favourite crime series and go-to author!
April 28, 2015
I think that Peter May is a very good thriller writer, but that the China series is not his best work. There is a lot of detailed research evident in this novel; I now know a lot more about the Terracotta Warriors than I did last week; but I not enamoured of the lead characters and the plot is a bit clunky. Not unenjoyable, but not memorable. I'll concentrate on May's other books and series before returning to this one again.
August 11, 2018
When it came to the fourth sacrifice it was the first time I had read Peter may. I think what drew me to this book more than anything was the setting. I realize this sounds a little shallow, and maybe that's a fair point. But I do have some reason behind it firstly a few years back I spent a month in China, so it holds a special place in my heart. Secondly, while I have read a fair few books set in China I had yet to read a crime book set there. So I was more than a little curious to see how it would play out. What difference would the Chinese police bring to the way a murder gets solved.
I think that in coming into this series on the second novel I was already on the back foot. The author gives no real time for catching the new reader up on who our two leads where. That is on me, I think maybe I have gotten so used to author giving away their first chapters to catching the new ones up. So anyway moving on. Paring an American pathologist with a Chinese cop serves as a way in for a western reader. It gives us someone to relate to within in the book which as I write it sounds odd. It also serves to add some tension between our two leads, they both have there own world views a product of there upbringing and how each country sees it's place in the world. For me, they felt like they played there parts well and came across as complete and well-crafted people. It is also worth noting that while Campbell serves as the fish out of water, Yan has a team to back him up. I liked the way the interacted with each other. They felt to me like a group of people who had worked together for a while. They have that way of mixing the need to do there job well with banter that from the outside would come across as mean or hurtful, but due to there past they know is not meant that way.
The plot for this managed to work that fine line between an excellent police procedural and the latest big U.S crime show, and for me, it totally works. The author has clearly put a great deal of time in to working out each point in his book and making sure the each, in turn, leads to a reasonable conclusion. Over the course of the book the author has managed to bring in enough twists and turns to keep me guessing and my mind working to the final page. I think it would be a very difficult thing to tackle a book in modern China without giving consideration to the politics of the county. It is another area that I felt was done with the right touch. I think it would be far to easy to get heavy handed and push the authors own views on the reader. I would also like to make a point of the inclusion of the terracotta army in the book. I realize how like I have been to travel to the place I have and in a small way, it adds to my enjoyment of reading about a place or things I have seen out in the real world.
The plot for me worked well as a thriller and there was enough in there to keep my mind working as I tried to solve the case. I found the two leads gave me more than a passing interest and I'm sure I will be hunting out the first book in the series. Firstly to learn how the came to be working together and also to explain to me the reasons for where they find themselves at the start of this one.
I think that in coming into this series on the second novel I was already on the back foot. The author gives no real time for catching the new reader up on who our two leads where. That is on me, I think maybe I have gotten so used to author giving away their first chapters to catching the new ones up. So anyway moving on. Paring an American pathologist with a Chinese cop serves as a way in for a western reader. It gives us someone to relate to within in the book which as I write it sounds odd. It also serves to add some tension between our two leads, they both have there own world views a product of there upbringing and how each country sees it's place in the world. For me, they felt like they played there parts well and came across as complete and well-crafted people. It is also worth noting that while Campbell serves as the fish out of water, Yan has a team to back him up. I liked the way the interacted with each other. They felt to me like a group of people who had worked together for a while. They have that way of mixing the need to do there job well with banter that from the outside would come across as mean or hurtful, but due to there past they know is not meant that way.
The plot for this managed to work that fine line between an excellent police procedural and the latest big U.S crime show, and for me, it totally works. The author has clearly put a great deal of time in to working out each point in his book and making sure the each, in turn, leads to a reasonable conclusion. Over the course of the book the author has managed to bring in enough twists and turns to keep me guessing and my mind working to the final page. I think it would be a very difficult thing to tackle a book in modern China without giving consideration to the politics of the county. It is another area that I felt was done with the right touch. I think it would be far to easy to get heavy handed and push the authors own views on the reader. I would also like to make a point of the inclusion of the terracotta army in the book. I realize how like I have been to travel to the place I have and in a small way, it adds to my enjoyment of reading about a place or things I have seen out in the real world.
The plot for me worked well as a thriller and there was enough in there to keep my mind working as I tried to solve the case. I found the two leads gave me more than a passing interest and I'm sure I will be hunting out the first book in the series. Firstly to learn how the came to be working together and also to explain to me the reasons for where they find themselves at the start of this one.
December 31, 2021
This is more of a low-burn thriller than a fast-paced one, but the reader is, nonetheless, drawn at speed through its pages because of the intriguing plot. I would recommend reading The Fire Maker (the first in the series) before this one as it provides the background to the relationship between Margaret and Li Yin.
When an American citizen becomes the fourth victim of a supposed serial-killer in China, the US embassy insists that Margaret, a top American forensic pathologist, assists the Chinese police. She works alongside Li Yin, head of the police department responsible for the case.
Although the investigation uncovers a link between the first three men to be killed (all Chinese), the American victim seems to have no relationship to them. Yet, the similarity between the killings means he must be involved in some way. The big puzzle for the case becomes why the American died at the hand of the same killer.
The investigation is full of unexpected twists all the way through that seem to forever turn the reader’s view of what happened upside-down.
It becomes a little like a travelogue / holiday guide in a few places, but the insight those sections provide into China and its history is integral to the plot and is very interesting. Those parts are fairly well woven into the storyline, so do not detract too much from the flow of the thriller. Peter May provides a fascinating view of life in China, both historically and in the 1980s, when he was there.
The Fourth Sacrifice has an intriguing storyline and is a thriller that paints a fascinating picture of life in China and its history along the way. It’s a great mystery thriller and becomes very difficult to put down as the puzzle over the fourth victim is slowly untangled. A highly recommended book, but read The Fire Maker first.
When an American citizen becomes the fourth victim of a supposed serial-killer in China, the US embassy insists that Margaret, a top American forensic pathologist, assists the Chinese police. She works alongside Li Yin, head of the police department responsible for the case.
Although the investigation uncovers a link between the first three men to be killed (all Chinese), the American victim seems to have no relationship to them. Yet, the similarity between the killings means he must be involved in some way. The big puzzle for the case becomes why the American died at the hand of the same killer.
The investigation is full of unexpected twists all the way through that seem to forever turn the reader’s view of what happened upside-down.
It becomes a little like a travelogue / holiday guide in a few places, but the insight those sections provide into China and its history is integral to the plot and is very interesting. Those parts are fairly well woven into the storyline, so do not detract too much from the flow of the thriller. Peter May provides a fascinating view of life in China, both historically and in the 1980s, when he was there.
The Fourth Sacrifice has an intriguing storyline and is a thriller that paints a fascinating picture of life in China and its history along the way. It’s a great mystery thriller and becomes very difficult to put down as the puzzle over the fourth victim is slowly untangled. A highly recommended book, but read The Fire Maker first.
August 23, 2018
It all depends on where, and how, you place the emphasis. A famous excerpt from very famous detective fiction mentions "the woman". The context expands the sense of the word:
Like so many things about Conan Doyle's Holmes stories, if they don't actually create (or break) the mold for subsequent detective fiction-- their details frame the problem, the thematic thread for the future. If you look through the most successful detectives, you will notice the distinct absence of a woman in their lives. Maybe not ever, but at least in their current adventures. Holmes, of course, but think of a Poirot or Inspector Morse or a dozen others. Not gonna happen, between the pages of the mystery you have in hand, at any rate.
There is no woman, and it serves the author in a couple ways. First and foremost, there are no domestic arrangements to be working around-- the detective can pick up and go at any moment, come home late, after a bullet wound, or wearing a disguise... no questions asked. Second, there is a wistfulness and almost-distracted quality about lost love-- (there inevitably was that-woman in the lives of most detectives, who always vanishes)- that suits the quirky mindset of the cerebral sleuth. None of that moony or juney business here, we are talking murder, after all.
Third and only sometimes-important, it gives us a detective who may just be susceptible to the wiles and charms of the deceptive seduction. But there we are pushed back toward reason one; it domesticates the man and his adventures-- and the complications ensue. The femme fatale for that reason is almost always held at arms length, and that first kiss almost always foretells a catastrophic clash. All well and good. Works for the maestros, works for the classics of the genre. It's worth noting that there is a counter-strain to this theme, which places a strong female either in the lead, from Miss Marple onwards, or which places a strong female in the same buddy-caper harness as the detective himself-- from Nick and Nora Charles to Inspector Lynley and Havers. But they're inevitably lighter, more humorous improvisations on the mystery novel, ingenious but hardly the core curriculum.
Which brings us to Peter May's Fourth Sacrifice. Suffice to say it's a girl-boy team and it doesn't really work. Suffice also to say that virtually every other element in the novel is pretty well done, nice atmospherics, good characters and the ability to non-confusingly outline a large ensemble, good control of pace, time, and staging. But the love affair business-- and here it is complicated by a dalliance with, spoiler, the (obvious) villain-- is dire. I was tempted to include a passage about our heroine having "surrendered herself to his ministrations"... but we don't need to go there. That kind of sentence belongs to Harlequin novels, I think, and not murder mysteries.
Men writing intimate love scenes derived from the interior considerations of a female character --should be very, very careful. It's tricky ground at the best of times, and for this reader, outright disastrous for men to write women in 90% of the cases I've read. Well handled mystery here, horribly teenagey romantic melodramatics. Ooops. I'll not be revisiting Mr. May's list of works.
“To Sherlock Holmes she is always the woman. I have seldom heard him mention her under any other name. In his eyes she eclipses and predominates the whole of her sex. It was not that he felt any emotion akin to love for Irene Adler. All emotions, and that one particularly, were abhorrent to his cold, precise but admirably balanced mind. He was, I take it, the most perfect reasoning and observing machine that the world has seen.... And yet there was but one woman to him, and that woman was the late Irene Adler, of dubious and questionable memory.”I had always read into that, maybe you did, too-- a bittersweet love-lost sort of quality, a rueful unwillingness to even mention her name. THE woman. It can go either way, of course, and she might alternately have been seen by Holmes as a black widow, an almost noirish black angel of the mystery world. As plainly, dismissively descriptive as Genesis has its Eve, as that WOMAN, the other.
Like so many things about Conan Doyle's Holmes stories, if they don't actually create (or break) the mold for subsequent detective fiction-- their details frame the problem, the thematic thread for the future. If you look through the most successful detectives, you will notice the distinct absence of a woman in their lives. Maybe not ever, but at least in their current adventures. Holmes, of course, but think of a Poirot or Inspector Morse or a dozen others. Not gonna happen, between the pages of the mystery you have in hand, at any rate.
There is no woman, and it serves the author in a couple ways. First and foremost, there are no domestic arrangements to be working around-- the detective can pick up and go at any moment, come home late, after a bullet wound, or wearing a disguise... no questions asked. Second, there is a wistfulness and almost-distracted quality about lost love-- (there inevitably was that-woman in the lives of most detectives, who always vanishes)- that suits the quirky mindset of the cerebral sleuth. None of that moony or juney business here, we are talking murder, after all.
Third and only sometimes-important, it gives us a detective who may just be susceptible to the wiles and charms of the deceptive seduction. But there we are pushed back toward reason one; it domesticates the man and his adventures-- and the complications ensue. The femme fatale for that reason is almost always held at arms length, and that first kiss almost always foretells a catastrophic clash. All well and good. Works for the maestros, works for the classics of the genre. It's worth noting that there is a counter-strain to this theme, which places a strong female either in the lead, from Miss Marple onwards, or which places a strong female in the same buddy-caper harness as the detective himself-- from Nick and Nora Charles to Inspector Lynley and Havers. But they're inevitably lighter, more humorous improvisations on the mystery novel, ingenious but hardly the core curriculum.
Which brings us to Peter May's Fourth Sacrifice. Suffice to say it's a girl-boy team and it doesn't really work. Suffice also to say that virtually every other element in the novel is pretty well done, nice atmospherics, good characters and the ability to non-confusingly outline a large ensemble, good control of pace, time, and staging. But the love affair business-- and here it is complicated by a dalliance with, spoiler, the (obvious) villain-- is dire. I was tempted to include a passage about our heroine having "surrendered herself to his ministrations"... but we don't need to go there. That kind of sentence belongs to Harlequin novels, I think, and not murder mysteries.
Men writing intimate love scenes derived from the interior considerations of a female character --should be very, very careful. It's tricky ground at the best of times, and for this reader, outright disastrous for men to write women in 90% of the cases I've read. Well handled mystery here, horribly teenagey romantic melodramatics. Ooops. I'll not be revisiting Mr. May's list of works.
May 3, 2018
The Fourth Sacrifice by Peter May is a recommended thriller and the sequel to The Firemaker.
On the eve of her departure for home, Dr. Margaret Campbell, a forensic pathologist from the United States, is asked to work with the Chinese police and conduct the autopsy of a beheaded man. The man, Yuan Tao, was a naturalized citizen of the United States and he was also apparently the fourth beheaded man in a string of ritual murders that could indicate the work of a serial killer. Margaret finds herself working with police Deputy Section Chief Li Yan, with whom she previously had a romantic relationship, and she is bitter at his perceived rejection of her. She doesn't know that Li was ordered to end his relationship with her. To further complicate matters archeologist Michael Zimmerman, as he introduces Margaret to the treasures of China, is making it clear to her that he is very interested in a relationship with her.
The plot mixes mystery, romance and history in the character driven narrative. The quality of the writing is good. May does do a great job setting the place and provides a lot of excellent information about and background for the Chinese culture. He provides the descriptions and background to create a total picture of China. Aside from the cultural references, there are little nit-picky details and lack of details about other topics that annoyed me. I could chose to set them aside and simply enjoy the story, which is predictable, but moves along quickly (when not trying to educate us about Chinese culture which does slow down the forward movement of the plot).
Since The Fourth Sacrifice is character driven, Margaret presents a bit of a problem, as she is a very unlikable character. Now, I haven't read the first novel, so perhaps she is more personable in that novel and the broken relationship is what drives her negative attitude. While I enjoyed this novel, it didn't leave me wanting to read the first one.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of Quercus.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2018/0...
On the eve of her departure for home, Dr. Margaret Campbell, a forensic pathologist from the United States, is asked to work with the Chinese police and conduct the autopsy of a beheaded man. The man, Yuan Tao, was a naturalized citizen of the United States and he was also apparently the fourth beheaded man in a string of ritual murders that could indicate the work of a serial killer. Margaret finds herself working with police Deputy Section Chief Li Yan, with whom she previously had a romantic relationship, and she is bitter at his perceived rejection of her. She doesn't know that Li was ordered to end his relationship with her. To further complicate matters archeologist Michael Zimmerman, as he introduces Margaret to the treasures of China, is making it clear to her that he is very interested in a relationship with her.
The plot mixes mystery, romance and history in the character driven narrative. The quality of the writing is good. May does do a great job setting the place and provides a lot of excellent information about and background for the Chinese culture. He provides the descriptions and background to create a total picture of China. Aside from the cultural references, there are little nit-picky details and lack of details about other topics that annoyed me. I could chose to set them aside and simply enjoy the story, which is predictable, but moves along quickly (when not trying to educate us about Chinese culture which does slow down the forward movement of the plot).
Since The Fourth Sacrifice is character driven, Margaret presents a bit of a problem, as she is a very unlikable character. Now, I haven't read the first novel, so perhaps she is more personable in that novel and the broken relationship is what drives her negative attitude. While I enjoyed this novel, it didn't leave me wanting to read the first one.
Disclosure: My review copy was courtesy of Quercus.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2018/0...
April 26, 2018
“The Fourth Sacrifice” is the second in Peter May’s China series, but it is not necessary to have read the first one, “The Firemaker” to enjoy this one. There is enough background information as part of the story that new readers will be able to jump in quickly. Margaret Campbell is still in mourning. Everywhere she looks she sees reminders of just one more failure in her life. Just as she is about to leave China, she is asked to perform an autopsy on a state department employee. This pulls her into yet another series of horrible murders.
“The Fourth Sacrifice" is set primarily in set primarily in Beijing and as always, May brings an incredible sense of place to the story. While the history and cultural references at times “slow” the progress of the plot, the descriptions pull readers into the city, and make it impossible for the book to have taken place anywhere else. Although some plot points were somewhat predictable, I still kept turning the pages to see how things moved along.
I received a copy of “The Fourth Sacrifice” from Peter May and Quercus. I love May’s writing style and the incredible sense of place that all his books suggest. While this series does not top the Lewis trilogy series, The China Thrillers are consistent and compelling. I certainly have enjoyed the first two books. I am glad that the series is being re-printed, and I have the next one on my “to read” list.
“The Fourth Sacrifice" is set primarily in set primarily in Beijing and as always, May brings an incredible sense of place to the story. While the history and cultural references at times “slow” the progress of the plot, the descriptions pull readers into the city, and make it impossible for the book to have taken place anywhere else. Although some plot points were somewhat predictable, I still kept turning the pages to see how things moved along.
I received a copy of “The Fourth Sacrifice” from Peter May and Quercus. I love May’s writing style and the incredible sense of place that all his books suggest. While this series does not top the Lewis trilogy series, The China Thrillers are consistent and compelling. I certainly have enjoyed the first two books. I am glad that the series is being re-printed, and I have the next one on my “to read” list.
April 17, 2021
In the second entry to this series, Dr. Margaret Campbell is heading back to the States to lick her wounds after her impetuous affair with Detective Li Yan has seemingly flickered out. Before she can catch her flight out of Beijing, she meets a charming American archaeologist who is filming a documentary series in China and she is asked to perform the autopsy of an American employee at the US consulate who was murdered. Li Yan is assigned to the case and sniping between he and Margaret ensues. This was not my favourite part of the book. Margaret is quite flighty within her personal life. What I did love and raises a 3.5 book to a 4 is the Chinese history that Peter May dives into, especially fascinating was his exploration of the Cultural Revolution through characters that were young at the outset and what the lasting impact was on them.
As a mystery/thriller lover, I'm not sure the foundation was laid for the reveal of the murderer. That was secondary to me as there was much more for me to enjoy in this book.
As a mystery/thriller lover, I'm not sure the foundation was laid for the reveal of the murderer. That was secondary to me as there was much more for me to enjoy in this book.
June 2, 2018
Having finished the first in the series and being frustrated with the character of Dr. Margaret Campbell, I was uncertain about continuing to the next volume. In the end I brought a copy from a second hand book store and it came to the top of my pile.
The story of archaeology, terracotta warriors and ritualistic murder stemming from the Cultural Revolution was a riveting read and kept be in my chair late into the night. Dr. Campbell is still a frustrating character who makes me want to shout as, apart from an autopsy, does little to help and lots to hinder the solving of the mystery.
Have to look for the next in the series now.
The story of archaeology, terracotta warriors and ritualistic murder stemming from the Cultural Revolution was a riveting read and kept be in my chair late into the night. Dr. Campbell is still a frustrating character who makes me want to shout as, apart from an autopsy, does little to help and lots to hinder the solving of the mystery.
Have to look for the next in the series now.
October 1, 2015
Já jsem byl spokojen. Knihu teda je třeba brát spíše jako dobrého průvodce kusem čínské historie, dozvíte se hodně o terekotové armádě i prvním císaři a sjednotiteli, dozvíte se pár detailů o kulturní revoluci a to hodně nenásilnou formou, takže jestli máte rádi takovéhle pozadí, kniha vás potěší. Jako detektivka to není žádný velký šlágr, ale na historizujícím pozadí to neurazí, namakaného detektivkáře ale ani nenadchne...
July 28, 2016
I love a Peter May and his thrillers set in China do not disappoint. I learned a great deal about the Terracotta Warriors, the single child policy, life under Mao and Chinese formal protocols in between enjoying the sparring between Margaret and Li Yan as they attempted to solve the gruesome deaths of several ex school chums, and the ending was a surprise! Looking forward to the next one!
July 18, 2016
Review? Someday, sometime. Book #2 in the China thrillers by Peter May. I'm really enjoying this series. Think of it as "Bones" but in China with Dr Temperance Brennan and a Chinese detective Booth.
September 1, 2018
Nebaví mě romantická linka, nebaví mě ani to, jakým je Margaret ignorantem. A ani to, že se ve svém věku chová jako malá holka.
Ale čínský prostředí je zajímavý a i to, co se dozvídáme o čínské historii je fajn. A koho by nefascinovala terakotová armáda, že? :)
Ale čínský prostředí je zajímavý a i to, co se dozvídáme o čínské historii je fajn. A koho by nefascinovala terakotová armáda, že? :)
February 7, 2017
Slušne vystavané, exotika terrakotovej armády zabrala, výstava bola putovná :-). Ale keď hlavný zločinec bol taký predvídateľný :-(.
April 27, 2024
This is the second in a series of books and I swear that in spite of the fact that this book is engaging and smart and intriguing that I am not going to move on to the third in the series if I can help it. This book is both filled with good writing and interesting information about China, but it is also somewhat of a hokey love story. It is hard to figure out how something can be both so obvious and so surprising! I mean, you almost want to continue with the series to find out what the author can possibly think of next! I have never watched soap opera on afternoon television and that is probably a good thing. Because then I might think that this series is nothing more than a soap opera with quite a bit of Chinese history and culture stirred in to trap those of us who have a particular interest in China for one reason or another.
Here are a few words from Copilot AI to say a little bit more about this strange novel series.
The China Thrillers series by Peter May is a captivating collection of detective novels that seamlessly blend cutting-edge science, drama, wit, and engaging characters. Let’s delve into the overarching themes that set this series apart:
Cultural Fusion and Contrast:
The novels are set in Beijing, a city that serves as a fascinating backdrop for the interplay between Western and Chinese cultures.
The lead protagonists are an American pathologist, Dr. Margaret Campbell, and a Chinese detective, Li Yan. Their partnership bridges cultural gaps, leading to intriguing dynamics and mutual learning.
The clash of traditions, beliefs, and investigative methods adds depth to the stories.
Complex Characters and Relationships:
Dr. Margaret Campbell is a down-on-her-luck pathologist from Chicago. Her acerbic wit and determination make her a compelling character.
Li Yan, the enigmatic Chinese detective, brings his own baggage and secrets. His tempestuous relationship with Margaret adds emotional tension.
Their evolving partnership, fraught with challenges and personal growth, keeps readers engaged beyond mere plot twists.
Scientific Intrigue and Forensics:
Peter May’s meticulous research shines through in the portrayal of forensic science. The novels explore autopsies, DNA analysis, and other investigative techniques.
The mysteries often hinge on scientific clues, making them intellectually stimulating.
Social and Political Context:
The series captures China during its transformation from post-Cultural Revolution to a modern powerhouse.
Readers witness glimpses of old Beijing, with its bound-footed ladies, blue Mao suits, and bustling markets, alongside the rapid changes of the 1990s.
Political intrigue, corruption, and societal shifts provide a rich context for the crimes investigated.
Thrilling Mysteries:
Each book presents a new case, often involving gruesome murders, ancient rituals, or high-stakes conspiracies.
The pacing keeps readers hooked, and the mysteries are more intricate than a typical soap opera plot.
In summary, the China Thrillers series transcends the soap opera genre by weaving together culture, character development, science, and gripping mysteries. It’s a literary journey that immerses readers in the heart of Beijing while unraveling secrets and unraveling crimes.
Here are a few words from Copilot AI to say a little bit more about this strange novel series.
The China Thrillers series by Peter May is a captivating collection of detective novels that seamlessly blend cutting-edge science, drama, wit, and engaging characters. Let’s delve into the overarching themes that set this series apart:
Cultural Fusion and Contrast:
The novels are set in Beijing, a city that serves as a fascinating backdrop for the interplay between Western and Chinese cultures.
The lead protagonists are an American pathologist, Dr. Margaret Campbell, and a Chinese detective, Li Yan. Their partnership bridges cultural gaps, leading to intriguing dynamics and mutual learning.
The clash of traditions, beliefs, and investigative methods adds depth to the stories.
Complex Characters and Relationships:
Dr. Margaret Campbell is a down-on-her-luck pathologist from Chicago. Her acerbic wit and determination make her a compelling character.
Li Yan, the enigmatic Chinese detective, brings his own baggage and secrets. His tempestuous relationship with Margaret adds emotional tension.
Their evolving partnership, fraught with challenges and personal growth, keeps readers engaged beyond mere plot twists.
Scientific Intrigue and Forensics:
Peter May’s meticulous research shines through in the portrayal of forensic science. The novels explore autopsies, DNA analysis, and other investigative techniques.
The mysteries often hinge on scientific clues, making them intellectually stimulating.
Social and Political Context:
The series captures China during its transformation from post-Cultural Revolution to a modern powerhouse.
Readers witness glimpses of old Beijing, with its bound-footed ladies, blue Mao suits, and bustling markets, alongside the rapid changes of the 1990s.
Political intrigue, corruption, and societal shifts provide a rich context for the crimes investigated.
Thrilling Mysteries:
Each book presents a new case, often involving gruesome murders, ancient rituals, or high-stakes conspiracies.
The pacing keeps readers hooked, and the mysteries are more intricate than a typical soap opera plot.
In summary, the China Thrillers series transcends the soap opera genre by weaving together culture, character development, science, and gripping mysteries. It’s a literary journey that immerses readers in the heart of Beijing while unraveling secrets and unraveling crimes.
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