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Break Even
Detective Olaf Bauer thought he’d seen the last of his brother when he put him behind bars. But when a legal loophole sets Max free, their violent past comes roaring back to life.
To complicate matters, Olaf takes on a puzzling murder case. Digging deeper, he unearths disturbing links between a dead journalist, Max’s release, and a politician’s disappearance.
Four key figures emerge as pieces in the puzzle: a cunning lawyer, an enigmatic pub owner, a morally conflicted professor, and a hospice nurse carrying an unexpected burden.
What dark secret binds them together from twenty years ago?
And how do the dots connect in the current circus?
To complicate matters, Olaf takes on a puzzling murder case. Digging deeper, he unearths disturbing links between a dead journalist, Max’s release, and a politician’s disappearance.
Four key figures emerge as pieces in the puzzle: a cunning lawyer, an enigmatic pub owner, a morally conflicted professor, and a hospice nurse carrying an unexpected burden.
What dark secret binds them together from twenty years ago?
And how do the dots connect in the current circus?
- GenresMystery
277 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 20, 2024
About the author
Nick Buckets
5 books3 followersNick used to work with pen & paper until he switched to a keyboard so that he can be closer to his other half. When not writing crime fiction, he crunches data behind a computer screen. Nick lives with his wife in Berlin.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 27, 2024
This was true cloak and dagger the whole way through. It kept me turning pages and thinking. When they showed the connections I was amazed, because it seemed so clear after they showed it all. Dah! The pieces all fell in place. Suspense and drama in every part. This was quite intense. It was a very personal mission with brother against brother that made it more compelling and impactful. The suggestion of upper level police corruption and who it was made me angry and sad, but it fits well with the storyline. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.
April 25, 2025
This is book 2 in the Olaf Bauer series, but can easily be read as a standalone. The books are set in Berlin & Bauer is a police detective, but this story is so much more than a police procedural.
The book starts with Olaf’s brother being released from prison on a technicality &, to make matters worse, he (Olaf) has to physically sign his release papers. So begins a variety of unrelated investigations: the death of a prominent investigative journalist, the kidnapping of a politician, the undercurrent of neo-Nazi rumblings & the reacquaintance of four once close friends. Oh. Almost forgot. Someone trying to kill Olaf on more than one occasion.
Olaf is a great, no nonsense character, very often trusting his instincts rather than what is presented to him. He is a dogged detective & doesn’t suffer fools gladly. This was a pacy read & I can’t wait to meet Herr Bauer again.
The book starts with Olaf’s brother being released from prison on a technicality &, to make matters worse, he (Olaf) has to physically sign his release papers. So begins a variety of unrelated investigations: the death of a prominent investigative journalist, the kidnapping of a politician, the undercurrent of neo-Nazi rumblings & the reacquaintance of four once close friends. Oh. Almost forgot. Someone trying to kill Olaf on more than one occasion.
Olaf is a great, no nonsense character, very often trusting his instincts rather than what is presented to him. He is a dogged detective & doesn’t suffer fools gladly. This was a pacy read & I can’t wait to meet Herr Bauer again.
August 18, 2024
I definitely liked this book more than Book 1 of the series. The writing has greatly improved and was even more engrossing than Book 1. You can read this book as a standalone but I would recommend that you read Book 1, if not the story story too, to get a familiarity with the characters.
The story oscillates between the present and the past, without confusing the readers and goes on to tell how the past impacts the future.
I am used to reading the books where the detectives have partners, but somehow Olaf not having a partner made the book better mainly because there are already multiple characters whose story goes hand in hand.
The book is not overly lengthy and short and simple chapters keep the momentum going, though I would prefer having a little more English words than German, since not knowing anything about Germany made me a little confused (it won't affect your reading experience to a great degree- basic word for hospital and police station are easily identifiable).
I also felt that Olaf seemed a little easy going to deal with things at a later stage, when they had a time sensitive case, and doesn't find out other means to find out the truth even when he suspects that someone is hiding something.
There are other factors in the story, which relates to Germany and mainly Berlin's history, which I was unaware of (The Berlin Wall, for example- I have heard of it, don't know the whole story), but I liked the book despite the fact. If you are aware of the history and the events, you would like the story even better.
I am looking forward to Book 3, which would probably close all the gaps and deal more with Olaf's past.
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story oscillates between the present and the past, without confusing the readers and goes on to tell how the past impacts the future.
I am used to reading the books where the detectives have partners, but somehow Olaf not having a partner made the book better mainly because there are already multiple characters whose story goes hand in hand.
The book is not overly lengthy and short and simple chapters keep the momentum going, though I would prefer having a little more English words than German, since not knowing anything about Germany made me a little confused (it won't affect your reading experience to a great degree- basic word for hospital and police station are easily identifiable).
I also felt that Olaf seemed a little easy going to deal with things at a later stage, when they had a time sensitive case, and doesn't find out other means to find out the truth even when he suspects that someone is hiding something.
There are other factors in the story, which relates to Germany and mainly Berlin's history, which I was unaware of (The Berlin Wall, for example- I have heard of it, don't know the whole story), but I liked the book despite the fact. If you are aware of the history and the events, you would like the story even better.
I am looking forward to Book 3, which would probably close all the gaps and deal more with Olaf's past.
I received an advance copy of the book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 22, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Nick Buckets’ Break Even is a gripping addition to the Olaf Bauer series, blending intense personal drama with a complex murder investigation. This second installment delves deeper into the life of Detective Olaf Bauer, offering readers a thrilling ride through the streets of Berlin.
The novel kicks off with the unexpected release of Olaf Bauer’s brother, Max, from prison due to a legal loophole. This sudden turn of events reopens old wounds and sets the stage for a high-stakes confrontation between the two brothers. As Olaf digs deeper, he uncovers a web of secrets that ties these events together, leading to a shocking revelation about a dark incident from twenty years ago.
Buckets excels in creating multi-dimensional characters. Olaf Bauer is portrayed with a compelling mix of determination and vulnerability, making him a relatable and engaging protagonist. The tension between Olaf and Max adds a personal layer to the narrative, heightening the stakes and emotional intensity.
Break Even explores themes of justice, family loyalty, and the long shadows cast by past actions. Buckets’ writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the gritty atmosphere of Berlin and the psychological complexities of his characters.
The novel’s pacing is expertly managed, with a balance of action and introspection that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Buckets skillfully builds suspense, with well-timed twists and turns that maintain a high level of intrigue.
Break Even is a compelling and well-crafted thriller that showcases Nick Buckets’ talent for storytelling. It is a worthy sequel that not only advances the overarching narrative of the Olaf Bauer series but also stands strong as a standalone novel.
Nick Buckets’ Break Even is a gripping addition to the Olaf Bauer series, blending intense personal drama with a complex murder investigation. This second installment delves deeper into the life of Detective Olaf Bauer, offering readers a thrilling ride through the streets of Berlin.
The novel kicks off with the unexpected release of Olaf Bauer’s brother, Max, from prison due to a legal loophole. This sudden turn of events reopens old wounds and sets the stage for a high-stakes confrontation between the two brothers. As Olaf digs deeper, he uncovers a web of secrets that ties these events together, leading to a shocking revelation about a dark incident from twenty years ago.
Buckets excels in creating multi-dimensional characters. Olaf Bauer is portrayed with a compelling mix of determination and vulnerability, making him a relatable and engaging protagonist. The tension between Olaf and Max adds a personal layer to the narrative, heightening the stakes and emotional intensity.
Break Even explores themes of justice, family loyalty, and the long shadows cast by past actions. Buckets’ writing is sharp and evocative, capturing the gritty atmosphere of Berlin and the psychological complexities of his characters.
The novel’s pacing is expertly managed, with a balance of action and introspection that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. Buckets skillfully builds suspense, with well-timed twists and turns that maintain a high level of intrigue.
Break Even is a compelling and well-crafted thriller that showcases Nick Buckets’ talent for storytelling. It is a worthy sequel that not only advances the overarching narrative of the Olaf Bauer series but also stands strong as a standalone novel.
February 10, 2025
4.5 stars.
Detective Olaf Bauer has to contend with his lowlife rapist brother, Max while investigating the strange death of a left-wing journalist. The story is told from multiple points of view, but mostly it's Olaf's POV.
I liked this book a lot. It reads like a TV series with the detective uncovering the cause of death and his brother and his past as side stories. Beyond Olaf and Max, the novel is filled with rich and colorful characters that enrich the story.
Despite it being a good book, a couple of things bothered me. They might simply have been cultural differences - this book is set in Berlin - but Olaf sometimes seemed amateurish. He's clearly a competent detective and a decent person, but some of the questions he asked his coworkers shouldn't have been asked by someone with his experience. They made him seem like a novice, and I felt it was a little insulting to all of us who read a lot of mystery novels.
The second thing that kind of bugged me was at times different characters overreacted to a simple statement. I don't know if it's a German thing or just character flaws, but I found myself getting confused, like maybe I'd missed something.
Despite the minor flaws in the novel, however, I do recommend this book. It's the second in a series, but it's a standalone. So, you'll be fine if you haven't read the first book.
Detective Olaf Bauer has to contend with his lowlife rapist brother, Max while investigating the strange death of a left-wing journalist. The story is told from multiple points of view, but mostly it's Olaf's POV.
I liked this book a lot. It reads like a TV series with the detective uncovering the cause of death and his brother and his past as side stories. Beyond Olaf and Max, the novel is filled with rich and colorful characters that enrich the story.
Despite it being a good book, a couple of things bothered me. They might simply have been cultural differences - this book is set in Berlin - but Olaf sometimes seemed amateurish. He's clearly a competent detective and a decent person, but some of the questions he asked his coworkers shouldn't have been asked by someone with his experience. They made him seem like a novice, and I felt it was a little insulting to all of us who read a lot of mystery novels.
The second thing that kind of bugged me was at times different characters overreacted to a simple statement. I don't know if it's a German thing or just character flaws, but I found myself getting confused, like maybe I'd missed something.
Despite the minor flaws in the novel, however, I do recommend this book. It's the second in a series, but it's a standalone. So, you'll be fine if you haven't read the first book.
September 2, 2024
An intriguing crime mystery, Break Even (2024) by Nick Buckets is the second in the Detective Olaf Bauer series. Set in Germany, the novel opens with Olaf signing the papers to release his older brother Max from prison - despite Olaf being responsible for putting him there. The narrative is spread over seven days in Berlin, 2021 and has chapter flashbacks to twenty years ago, providing the backstory. Olaf is concerned that Max's threats against him may be followed though, after he receives warnings and is then a victim of an attempted hit-and-run. Meantime, as Olaf investigates the murder of a journalist, he interviews a lawyer, pub owner, university professor and a hospice nurse caring for his father. Then a politican is kidnapped and Olaf discovers some interesting links, including some leading back to his own brother, Max. Although part of a series, this is a standalone review of a sophisticated and engaging police procedural, with a four and a half stars read rating. With thanks to Impressum and the author, for an uncorrected advanced review copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement.
September 20, 2024
Book 2 of the Detective Olaf Bauer series and the pace quickens up from book 1 which I recommend you read first, although does read well as a stand-alone. Olaf’s criminal brother Max has been released from prison and vows to kill him. His father is terminally ill and refuses to talk to him and he is looking for a new partner in the office. And it is the middle of winter in Berlin!
Briefly, Olaf is asked to look into the apparent murder of a prominent journalist. It appears the journalist was investigating something really serious but what and involving whom? And what does it have to do with a double homicide some 20 years earlier and the kidnapping of a politician?
Trying to unravel the mess whilst avoiding attempts to kill him, presumably by Max, Olaf has a lot on his hands. Bauer is a great character unwavering and persistent, he’s really growing on me. An exciting and fast paced thriller and an enjoyable read, although there are a few loose ends I assume leading to book 3. Looking forward to more thrills from the dogged detective!
Briefly, Olaf is asked to look into the apparent murder of a prominent journalist. It appears the journalist was investigating something really serious but what and involving whom? And what does it have to do with a double homicide some 20 years earlier and the kidnapping of a politician?
Trying to unravel the mess whilst avoiding attempts to kill him, presumably by Max, Olaf has a lot on his hands. Bauer is a great character unwavering and persistent, he’s really growing on me. An exciting and fast paced thriller and an enjoyable read, although there are a few loose ends I assume leading to book 3. Looking forward to more thrills from the dogged detective!
November 3, 2024
Hidden Gems introduced me to this author and series through the ARC program. When this one was offered, I was anxious to see where it would take Olaf Bauer. It might help to have read the first book to understand more of Olaf’s backstory. This story opens with Olaf picking up his brother from jail, where he had put him at the end of book one. Obviously, their relationship is as bad as that situation indicates and their father is in hospice care.
Olaf’s new case is the death of a newspaper reporter that was originally looked at as a potential suicide. As he investigates, the situation becomes more complicated and appears to be connected to a cold case and possibly his brother. The author builds the mystery of the old case through flashbacks as the new characters are introduced, and the plot moving with lots of tension and suspense as the story evolves.
Really good police procedural, with lots of action and mystery, plus an interesting location in Berlin that included the current city but with nod to its history. Will definitely continue with the series if offered.
Olaf’s new case is the death of a newspaper reporter that was originally looked at as a potential suicide. As he investigates, the situation becomes more complicated and appears to be connected to a cold case and possibly his brother. The author builds the mystery of the old case through flashbacks as the new characters are introduced, and the plot moving with lots of tension and suspense as the story evolves.
Really good police procedural, with lots of action and mystery, plus an interesting location in Berlin that included the current city but with nod to its history. Will definitely continue with the series if offered.
September 12, 2024
Hands down, another winner from Nick Bucketts! His characters are realistic, fully developed, and multi-dimensional. There's plenty of suspense, unexpected revelations, twists and turns, and conspiracy galore. Once again I kept Pronouce.com busy making sure I was pronouncing German names and locations correctly, but it was fun. Mr. Bukcet's police procedural series set in Germany is the first one that I have read and I am thoroughly enjoying it. The details ring true and the action keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. The relationship between Olaf and his father and brother is heartwrenching and gives a very human touch to the characters. Although, I have to admit to wanting to wrap my hands around Max's (Olaf's brother) neck more than a few times.
I highly recommend this series and I can't wait to get the next book, so Mr. Buckets needs to write fast!
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens and this review is my honest opinion.
I highly recommend this series and I can't wait to get the next book, so Mr. Buckets needs to write fast!
I received a review copy from the author via BookSirens and this review is my honest opinion.
July 31, 2024
I'm going to admit right up front that I'm the wrong audience for this novel therefore my review may be overly critical. Olaf is an independent, motorcycle riding Berlin cop who grew up on the east side of the wall. He is pursuing the murder of a respected journalist and is headed on a collision course with 4 successful people who thought they had buried the mistakes of their youth.
I was bothered by the character of Olaf. He did not have a partner, was allowed to use his personal motorcycle for professional duties, and seemed too quick to develop grudges. This is a very popular series, well written, with an obviously flawed character in Olaf. All of the characters are well developed. For the aficionado of Berlin or German espionage, this is a great story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was bothered by the character of Olaf. He did not have a partner, was allowed to use his personal motorcycle for professional duties, and seemed too quick to develop grudges. This is a very popular series, well written, with an obviously flawed character in Olaf. All of the characters are well developed. For the aficionado of Berlin or German espionage, this is a great story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 10, 2024
I enjoyed the 20 years prior flash back technique the author used to set the scene for the detective’s case today. It was not obvious what the connection was between suspects he interviewed but as the story developed it started to become more clear.
I did find some sentence structure was a bit convoluted in places. I am not sure if Buckets wrote this in a second language or if it was translated. It wasn’t a deal breaker but did require me to re-read some passages to grasp what he was saying. I may have to look into book #1 in this series for more insight on the detective Olaf Bauer .
I was provided an ARC for this book coming out in a couple of months and provide this review voluntarily.
I did find some sentence structure was a bit convoluted in places. I am not sure if Buckets wrote this in a second language or if it was translated. It wasn’t a deal breaker but did require me to re-read some passages to grasp what he was saying. I may have to look into book #1 in this series for more insight on the detective Olaf Bauer .
I was provided an ARC for this book coming out in a couple of months and provide this review voluntarily.
August 3, 2024
This is set in modern Berlin, and follows Olaf Bauer, a detective in the city. This is book 2, and it helps to read the first book, but you could start here for sure.
I enjoyed this book. Bad luck follows this guy around. In this book, he is without a partner, working on the murder of a reporter. Meanwhile, the brother who he put behind bars is out and causing trouble again. This book as a very well-done, complicated plot. The tension mounts throughout the book which is what you want in an action police type book.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys police/crime books, or action books, especially if they are interested in a new setting (as in not London, or New York).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this book. Bad luck follows this guy around. In this book, he is without a partner, working on the murder of a reporter. Meanwhile, the brother who he put behind bars is out and causing trouble again. This book as a very well-done, complicated plot. The tension mounts throughout the book which is what you want in an action police type book.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys police/crime books, or action books, especially if they are interested in a new setting (as in not London, or New York).
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 5, 2024
Detective Olaf Bauer is galled by having to release his violent brother, Max, from prison due to a legal loophole. He knows that it's just a matter of time until Max commits another crime, so he vows to watch him closely.
As is my habit, I read 25% of a book (at least) before abandonment. It was a struggle with this one. I did not like Olaf, despite his noble aims, and I had no interest in what happened with Max. There were a number of grammatical errors in the book, and though I believe that English may not be the author's first language, a competent editor should have corrected these. So, between the grammar issues, unlikeable characters, and unengaging story, I didn't make it to the end of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
As is my habit, I read 25% of a book (at least) before abandonment. It was a struggle with this one. I did not like Olaf, despite his noble aims, and I had no interest in what happened with Max. There were a number of grammatical errors in the book, and though I believe that English may not be the author's first language, a competent editor should have corrected these. So, between the grammar issues, unlikeable characters, and unengaging story, I didn't make it to the end of the book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 12, 2024
Not great. This book is written by a non-native English writer and although at first some of the mistakes add charm to the book, by the end I was quite irritated by the writing style. The plot is cryptic, told over two time periods and the links are not revealed until quite late into the book. Olaf, the main detective, has few social contacts and chased around interviewing people without a clear purpose (that the reader knew about) and without gaining much information. Towards the end of the book, the plot did come together.
All in all, not really my cup of tea. I had been hoping for some background facts about Berlin, which did not really come, though there is a passing reference to Checkpoint Charlie. Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
All in all, not really my cup of tea. I had been hoping for some background facts about Berlin, which did not really come, though there is a passing reference to Checkpoint Charlie. Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC
September 12, 2024
I did not like the book. Did not finish it. Very slow read, the main character, Detective Olaf, I did not like at all. The story dragged along, at one point we switched to a past time line about two girls that up to the point I stopped never even mentioned the girls. I wish I saw hat other reviewers saw with it being a page turner, couldn't put it down, filled with thrills and excitement! Perhaps we have different definitions of those words, but from my understanding of excitement there wasn't any in the book, again up to the point that I had read. I wanted to like the book but couldn't. If I have to force myself to read then the book is not enjoyable and that was the case with Break Even The most that I was able to read in one setting was 2 pages.
August 20, 2024
I enjoyed the twists in this novel and felt that the switches between present day and the past were done well & in a way that wasn't confusing.
The only thing that really jarred with me was the teens discussion about whether one had been asked for ID to buy beers when they had just finished their Abitur. That is just a US American type perspective that wouldn't happen & felt so weird for me that I almost didn't read on. It's a detail, but didn't quite fit with the rest of the book for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The only thing that really jarred with me was the teens discussion about whether one had been asked for ID to buy beers when they had just finished their Abitur. That is just a US American type perspective that wouldn't happen & felt so weird for me that I almost didn't read on. It's a detail, but didn't quite fit with the rest of the book for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 6, 2024
I didn't read the first book so it took me a few pages to get an idea as to the characters and their backstories. Olaf is a detective whose jobs has interfered with his personal life enough times that he doesn't really have a life outside of the job anymore. Although the plot was a bit predictable, I like the world-building that's going on behind the scenes of the basic plot, setting the stage for the next book or even next few books.
Received as an ARC from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
Received as an ARC from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2024
This was the second book in the series. I haven't read the first book but this did not affect the reading of this one. Very well written, a story about an event that took place 20 years ago and how it connects to events of today. It kept me gripped from start to finish. Highly recommended and I will definitely read this author again.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 17, 2024
This is the second book I have read by this author. I liked this one even more than the first one. The story builds up slowly to the events of 20 years ago, which, of course, affects what is currently happening. It is interesting how Olaf connects the clues. I recommend the book.
I received this book from the author for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received this book from the author for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 6, 2024
He put his brother behind bars and he hoped he would not see them again but they are now out. They used a legal loophole to get out of jail. He is also handed a difficult murder case which may involve his brother? What is going on? How will he get on? Can he stop his brother? See how he gets on
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
September 21, 2024
I had a difficult time reading the bulk of this book. I found a minimum of twenty-two typos / errors. I didn't mind that I had to look up some German words since I believe that individuals should learn something new everyday of their lives.
The last chapters in this book, were really good and kept me engrossed. All in all, it will be a good book once all of the errors / typos are fixed.
The last chapters in this book, were really good and kept me engrossed. All in all, it will be a good book once all of the errors / typos are fixed.
September 27, 2024
Absolutely a good find. You will not easily figure out the connection between the characters early on making for an exciting read. Olaf will be a great character to develop a series around. A homicide detective who really is persistent and ver perceptive. Look forward to author’s future books. Thanks book sirens for the loan
October 24, 2024
Undoubtedly, the crime fiction genre is experiencing significant growth, and the sheer number of crime novels available is staggering. Sadly, there is also a lot of the same: books that heavily rely on cliches and formulaic plots. Even though Break Even can be seen as a police procedural it’s a welcome breath of fresh air for various reasons.
Full review: https://westwordsreviews.wordpress.co...
Full review: https://westwordsreviews.wordpress.co...
August 18, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers only.
I throughly enjoyed this book from start to finish, it was a real page Turner for me.
Each page there was more twists and turns and had me wanting to get to the end to see how it ended.
I loved the characters in the book, especially the main character Olaf
I would be really interested to read more stories around this character.
Thank you for allowing me to read this book.
I throughly enjoyed this book from start to finish, it was a real page Turner for me.
Each page there was more twists and turns and had me wanting to get to the end to see how it ended.
I loved the characters in the book, especially the main character Olaf
I would be really interested to read more stories around this character.
Thank you for allowing me to read this book.
December 4, 2024
ADVANCED REVIEW COPY
This was a first time encounter for me with German author Nick Buckets (Nikolaos Karaiskos).
The cover describes this as Detective Olaf Bauer Book Two BUT the "also by Nick Buckets" page gives us two previous titles - ""Fading Echoes" and "Berlin Seeds"...a rapid piece of detective work on my part reveals that the former was a short story, set years before the series, introducing the character.
I enjoyed the book - it certainly stands alone though I suspect some of the characters I encountered may well have featured in the previous novel, if not the short story...however there are a lot of loose ends that left me ultimately dissatisfied and reduced my rating to three stars. I'm sure that these will be addressed in future entries in the series but I feel, sitting here now having read to the end, that great chunks of motive and rationale are missing...the whys and wherefores of the grey man for instance, and just why and how he instils fear one moment but can be forced into making an ultimately shallow appearance in another (yes, I know, plot device BUT it's an unsatisfactory plot device to this reader)
The tale revolves around an apparent political kidnapping which Olaf Bauer is officially only on the periphery of. There's a lot about the various factions of political and crime enforcement life in modern Germany which Mr Buckets does his best to explain without getting too complicated in the telling. Bauer has complex relations with both his dying father and his criminal brother which occur throughout the book - there are some inconsistencies in what's suggested, said and done but I guess families are like that so would it be picky to get upset about them? I don't want to leave spoilers but tell me how you feel when you get to the end and the opportunity to fire a fatal bullet is not taken, is indeed just stopped without any comment from the author or the character ...
I think I'd like to read the previous and the next books in the series - maybe I'll review my score upwards if some of those short comings are addressed eh?
This was a first time encounter for me with German author Nick Buckets (Nikolaos Karaiskos).
The cover describes this as Detective Olaf Bauer Book Two BUT the "also by Nick Buckets" page gives us two previous titles - ""Fading Echoes" and "Berlin Seeds"...a rapid piece of detective work on my part reveals that the former was a short story, set years before the series, introducing the character.
I enjoyed the book - it certainly stands alone though I suspect some of the characters I encountered may well have featured in the previous novel, if not the short story...however there are a lot of loose ends that left me ultimately dissatisfied and reduced my rating to three stars. I'm sure that these will be addressed in future entries in the series but I feel, sitting here now having read to the end, that great chunks of motive and rationale are missing...the whys and wherefores of the grey man for instance, and just why and how he instils fear one moment but can be forced into making an ultimately shallow appearance in another (yes, I know, plot device BUT it's an unsatisfactory plot device to this reader)
The tale revolves around an apparent political kidnapping which Olaf Bauer is officially only on the periphery of. There's a lot about the various factions of political and crime enforcement life in modern Germany which Mr Buckets does his best to explain without getting too complicated in the telling. Bauer has complex relations with both his dying father and his criminal brother which occur throughout the book - there are some inconsistencies in what's suggested, said and done but I guess families are like that so would it be picky to get upset about them? I don't want to leave spoilers but tell me how you feel when you get to the end and the opportunity to fire a fatal bullet is not taken, is indeed just stopped without any comment from the author or the character ...
I think I'd like to read the previous and the next books in the series - maybe I'll review my score upwards if some of those short comings are addressed eh?
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