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Inspector Lynley #10
In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner
The central plot deals with two bodies found in a circle of prehistoric stones. Who were they? How did they get there? Did the victims even know each other? Detectives Thomas Lynley and Barbara Havers find themselves caught up in a mystery that grows more perplexing the longer they contemplate it.
As usual with George, the mystery itself is well devised and a lot of fun to speculate on as you read.
As usual with George, the mystery itself is well devised and a lot of fun to speculate on as you read.
You don't think of the Agatha Christie style of novel as being overhauled, but in fact, a number of very good writers have been pushing the cozy into some brave new areas. Nancy Pickard, Joan Hess, and Carolyn Hart, to name just a few, have demonstrated that the cozy can be serious as well as seriously (or pointedly, if you prefer) funny.
Over the past decade, Elizabeth George has also been pushing the Christie-style mystery into richer and more rewarding areas. Her new novel, In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner, is so rich in character, incident, and theme that one finally has to take it seriously, not just as a mystery but as a novel as well. I'm not going to say that it "transcends the mystery genre," because that's offensive to mystery writers. And rightly so. But I will say that, in much the same way that Sharyn McCrumb has expanded the range of the serious crime novel, George has also pushed her particular form to the limits.
596 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1999
701 people are currently reading
3425 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth George
105 books5,525 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Susan Elizabeth George is an American author of mystery novels set in Great Britain. Eleven of her novels, featuring her character Inspector Lynley, have been adapted for television by the BBC as The Inspector Lynley Mysteries.
She was born in Warren, Ohio, but moved to the San Francisco Bay Area when she was eighteen months old. She was a student of English, receiving a teaching certificate. While teaching English in the public school system, she completed an advanced degree in psychology.
Her first published novel was A Great Deliverance in 1988, featuring Thomas Lynley, Lord Asherton, a Scotland Yard inspector of noble birth; Barbara Havers, Lynley's assistant, from a very working-class background; Lady Helen Clyde, Lynley's girlfriend and later wife, of noble birth as well; and Lynley's friends Simon and Deborah St. James.
This Elizabeth George is distinct from the other author named Elizabeth George (Christian author).
Series:
* Inspector Lynley
Susan Elizabeth George is an American author of mystery novels set in Great Britain. Eleven of her novels, featuring her character Inspector Lynley, have been adapted for television by the BBC as The Inspector Lynley Mysteries.
She was born in Warren, Ohio, but moved to the San Francisco Bay Area when she was eighteen months old. She was a student of English, receiving a teaching certificate. While teaching English in the public school system, she completed an advanced degree in psychology.
Her first published novel was A Great Deliverance in 1988, featuring Thomas Lynley, Lord Asherton, a Scotland Yard inspector of noble birth; Barbara Havers, Lynley's assistant, from a very working-class background; Lady Helen Clyde, Lynley's girlfriend and later wife, of noble birth as well; and Lynley's friends Simon and Deborah St. James.
This Elizabeth George is distinct from the other author named Elizabeth George (Christian author).
Series:
* Inspector Lynley
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 543 reviews
November 17, 2014
Number ten is superb and proves the series is worthy of reading
I absolutely believe this novel proves George to be a literary writer. Without question she also writes with a feminine 'taint'. As long as men make the rules of what quality writing must consist of, the author probably will never completely receive what she is due in respect or awards. But as for my opinion, there are few writers, literary or genre, who can fulfill both the requirements of providing reading entertainment, informing the reader about elements of class and society, while illuminating the truths of the human heart. She truly sees men and women with a profound clarity. The writing of this series has not always attained the same heights as the author's understanding of people - until this book in the series. I think nothing reveals humanity as much as the novels of the mystery genre when written by good writers.
This is the book where Elizabeth George definitively crossed over into the higher realm of literary writer. However, because of the continuing and ongoing threads between Thomas Lynley, Detective Inspector at New Scotland Yard, Earl of Asherton, and DI Constable Barbara Havers, working class maven, I recommend reading the previous nine books in the series first, in order. The revealed depths of their relationship is only understood in the context of the evolving knowledge of the reader about them.
Class defines both characters. It affects their perceptions and their educated skill set. Both being citizens of England, Class could not be of more importance in how they do their jobs. Between the two of them, they make one hell of a detective. Separately, they are somewhat hampered by the social circles they inhabit and their access to information and authority. While both appear to be highly qualified people who wish to solve crimes as well as being very ambitious to do well, I think Havers is the better detective. However, she finds herself wronged because of her sex and her Class. She also sometimes is misunderstood by those who have not 'walked in her shoes'. Lynley is frequently blinded completely by the upperclass education and social chains of his Class, and he has been misled by his preconceptions far more often than Barbara Havers has been by her perceptions. Both make errors in judgement, but I believe Havers has improved far more as a detective than has Lynley. I don't mean to demean Lynley as I think his heart is in the right place. It's seems obvious to me he is trying to help more than harm. But his unawareness of unconscious beliefs in the automatic hierarchical superiority of his Class and sex keeps coming between him and Havers. Because he cannot see the invisible underpinnings of his thinking, he often denies Havers the benefit of the doubt and often increases the punishment of her faults while diminishing the degree of her accomplishments. The interplay of Class and sex discrimination in the relationship between Lynley and Havers is spectacularly background with deceptive subtlety, and it's partially why I love this ongoing mystery series.
To any reader who is thrilled by good writing along with a fun mystery, Elizabeth George is a crackerjack writer of literary talent. Do not judge her by the earlier books alone. It has taken her a bit of evolving to fine tune her ability to write and swing around her weight with her publisher while meeting the requirements of the general reader picking up a novel convenient to hand shopping in the grocery store. Men may never find her as much fun to read because George emphasizes relationship and family drama over gory violence. However, while the men-dominated literary award circles might sniff a bit over the soap opera elements, I ADORE this series for it.
Oh, and the plot? Convoluted with red herrings and monster emotions and high stakes and psychological misery and underworld depravity and class delusions and bizarre personalities and mysterious murder. Very satisfying to read and extremely difficult to put down when real life intrudes. LOVED IT!!!
I absolutely believe this novel proves George to be a literary writer. Without question she also writes with a feminine 'taint'. As long as men make the rules of what quality writing must consist of, the author probably will never completely receive what she is due in respect or awards. But as for my opinion, there are few writers, literary or genre, who can fulfill both the requirements of providing reading entertainment, informing the reader about elements of class and society, while illuminating the truths of the human heart. She truly sees men and women with a profound clarity. The writing of this series has not always attained the same heights as the author's understanding of people - until this book in the series. I think nothing reveals humanity as much as the novels of the mystery genre when written by good writers.
This is the book where Elizabeth George definitively crossed over into the higher realm of literary writer. However, because of the continuing and ongoing threads between Thomas Lynley, Detective Inspector at New Scotland Yard, Earl of Asherton, and DI Constable Barbara Havers, working class maven, I recommend reading the previous nine books in the series first, in order. The revealed depths of their relationship is only understood in the context of the evolving knowledge of the reader about them.
Class defines both characters. It affects their perceptions and their educated skill set. Both being citizens of England, Class could not be of more importance in how they do their jobs. Between the two of them, they make one hell of a detective. Separately, they are somewhat hampered by the social circles they inhabit and their access to information and authority. While both appear to be highly qualified people who wish to solve crimes as well as being very ambitious to do well, I think Havers is the better detective. However, she finds herself wronged because of her sex and her Class. She also sometimes is misunderstood by those who have not 'walked in her shoes'. Lynley is frequently blinded completely by the upperclass education and social chains of his Class, and he has been misled by his preconceptions far more often than Barbara Havers has been by her perceptions. Both make errors in judgement, but I believe Havers has improved far more as a detective than has Lynley. I don't mean to demean Lynley as I think his heart is in the right place. It's seems obvious to me he is trying to help more than harm. But his unawareness of unconscious beliefs in the automatic hierarchical superiority of his Class and sex keeps coming between him and Havers. Because he cannot see the invisible underpinnings of his thinking, he often denies Havers the benefit of the doubt and often increases the punishment of her faults while diminishing the degree of her accomplishments. The interplay of Class and sex discrimination in the relationship between Lynley and Havers is spectacularly background with deceptive subtlety, and it's partially why I love this ongoing mystery series.
To any reader who is thrilled by good writing along with a fun mystery, Elizabeth George is a crackerjack writer of literary talent. Do not judge her by the earlier books alone. It has taken her a bit of evolving to fine tune her ability to write and swing around her weight with her publisher while meeting the requirements of the general reader picking up a novel convenient to hand shopping in the grocery store. Men may never find her as much fun to read because George emphasizes relationship and family drama over gory violence. However, while the men-dominated literary award circles might sniff a bit over the soap opera elements, I ADORE this series for it.
Oh, and the plot? Convoluted with red herrings and monster emotions and high stakes and psychological misery and underworld depravity and class delusions and bizarre personalities and mysterious murder. Very satisfying to read and extremely difficult to put down when real life intrudes. LOVED IT!!!
April 23, 2021
"Dit boek is één van de betere die ik al gelezen heb van haar. George heeft opnieuw een parel afgeleverd!"
https://elinevandm.wordpress.com/2021...
https://elinevandm.wordpress.com/2021...
March 21, 2018
"How sharper than a serpent’s tooth it is To have a thankless child!" —King Lear
Reading a Lynley mystery each month is honing my chunckster reading skills! Are none of these books less that 600 pages? It's a good exercise, as this year I wanted to focus on reading hefty books (page count) over number of books. While this one was a bit heavier in content than I would normally prefer (I subtracted a star from my rating), it does make me want to dive into a classic of equal size. All the references to Shakespeare weren't lost on me. I was just cheesed off at Lynley in this particular book. But I realized that I think the crowning gem of this series is Barbara Havers. She fascinates me! And now Constable Winston Nkata is also drawing me in. I don't know if I'll jump into the next book in the series right away. It's sitting on my shelf and has over 700 pages. Yeah. I need a breather, but I'm finally halfway through the series!
March 8, 2014
The mystery portion was intriguingly convoluted, but, man, is Elizabeth George long-winded! 6 pages devoted to the back story and daily details of the person who found the body, another 6 pages for the back story and daily details of the kid who found the murder weapon, and we also get a continuing, unnecessary side plot about the murder victim's boyfriend, his alcoholic father, and their failing family estate.
I was also occasionally distracted by the odd vocabulary choices. It sometimes felt as if Ms. George was using the thesaurus tool and choosing the most arcane or unusual synonym, regardless of flow or appropriateness. I love words and the specificities allowed by a wide vocabulary, but sometimes the best word is the obvious, everyday word. Ex: "His instructions could not have been more pellucid." There is NO reason not to simply use the word "clear" in this sentence. "Pellucid" adds nothing but unintentional humor.
One final thought: Inspector Lynley is insufferable to Barbara Havers in this book. He holds his approval and forgiveness over her head for an affront that (a) was not perpetrated against him and (b) she was already punished for severely by his superiors. By the end of the book, he has decided to oh-so-magnanimously bestow his good opinion, but he never apologizes AND it takes an unnecessary and illogical tragedy to make him come around. That was annoying to me, especially since Barbara is only too grateful to have him merely stop being awful to her.
I was also occasionally distracted by the odd vocabulary choices. It sometimes felt as if Ms. George was using the thesaurus tool and choosing the most arcane or unusual synonym, regardless of flow or appropriateness. I love words and the specificities allowed by a wide vocabulary, but sometimes the best word is the obvious, everyday word. Ex: "His instructions could not have been more pellucid." There is NO reason not to simply use the word "clear" in this sentence. "Pellucid" adds nothing but unintentional humor.
One final thought: Inspector Lynley is insufferable to Barbara Havers in this book. He holds his approval and forgiveness over her head for an affront that (a) was not perpetrated against him and (b) she was already punished for severely by his superiors. By the end of the book, he has decided to oh-so-magnanimously bestow his good opinion, but he never apologizes AND it takes an unnecessary and illogical tragedy to make him come around. That was annoying to me, especially since Barbara is only too grateful to have him merely stop being awful to her.
April 18, 2012
I know who done it! I know who done it! HA!
Another favorite author and detective discovered compliments of PBS "Masterpiece Mystery." I have not been reading the Inspector Lynley series in order. This is because I am having difficulties coming across used copies of the author. I know that sounds cheap, but I am cheap. And, it seems a tragedy of tragedies to spend money on shipping for a paperback book. So, I haunt the library cast-off book store where the lovely volunteer keeps her eyes open for any Elizabeth George coming through the stacks of contributions. I truly believe the author is fully worth the $1 I spend per book.
George is one of those mystery writers that is good at the details. There is no anger as a result of facts and clues added at the last minute. The clues are there for you to follow the leads. Her writing does take you down some twists that can make you think you know who is guilty only to have the suspect vindicated. But, that is the fun of a mystery, is it not?
Inspector Lynley of the books is a much more complicated man than the character depicted in the BBC series. The BBC Lynley seems to have it more together while coming off as a bit of a prig, while George's Lynley is more complicated and introspective. BBC Lynley is always right, even while he treats his wife somewhat badly, while George's Lynley admits when he is wrong and at least tries to treat his wife well. Lynley's BBC wife is not as strong as George's character, and George's DI Havers is a much more intriguing mess of a character than the BBC Havers. George's books are long...but great companions for long plane trips with several transfers.
My one criticism: Watermelon Pop-Tarts?? (O_o) Eeeewwwww!
Another favorite author and detective discovered compliments of PBS "Masterpiece Mystery." I have not been reading the Inspector Lynley series in order. This is because I am having difficulties coming across used copies of the author. I know that sounds cheap, but I am cheap. And, it seems a tragedy of tragedies to spend money on shipping for a paperback book. So, I haunt the library cast-off book store where the lovely volunteer keeps her eyes open for any Elizabeth George coming through the stacks of contributions. I truly believe the author is fully worth the $1 I spend per book.
George is one of those mystery writers that is good at the details. There is no anger as a result of facts and clues added at the last minute. The clues are there for you to follow the leads. Her writing does take you down some twists that can make you think you know who is guilty only to have the suspect vindicated. But, that is the fun of a mystery, is it not?
Inspector Lynley of the books is a much more complicated man than the character depicted in the BBC series. The BBC Lynley seems to have it more together while coming off as a bit of a prig, while George's Lynley is more complicated and introspective. BBC Lynley is always right, even while he treats his wife somewhat badly, while George's Lynley admits when he is wrong and at least tries to treat his wife well. Lynley's BBC wife is not as strong as George's character, and George's DI Havers is a much more intriguing mess of a character than the BBC Havers. George's books are long...but great companions for long plane trips with several transfers.
My one criticism: Watermelon Pop-Tarts?? (O_o) Eeeewwwww!
August 19, 2019
Not too much to say except that reading about the fallout from Haver's actions in the last book drove this one a lot. Havers is still with the force, but demoted. Lynley feels as if Havers was not properly punished for what she did and is reluctant to work with her again. Through a new case though (the investigation into two young people who are found murdered) Havers works mostly with Winston Nkata in this one. So we get to see a new dynamic between long standing characters. And we get to see more changes between Lynley and Helen now that they are married. Per usual, Lynley is angry that Helen dares to act independent of him. I thought the case was interesting, but the why behind it was pretty ridiculous. Usually that would be enough for me to lower a star. However, I read the next book in the series already, and this one is practically Shakespeare compared to that one.
"In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner" has Lynley asked to investigate from a former undercover who was well renowned in the police force. The man's twenty year old daughter is found dead and a nearby young man is also found. Through a lot of twists and turns, Lynley finds out about a darker life that the young woman was embarking on. What I thought was interesting about this one is that so many people were setting out to protect others, but in the end, if any of them had been honest about things, I think a different ending would have happened.
Lynley is a prig in this one. He's pretty ticked that Havers disobeyed a direct order and he wants her to show some contrition about what she did. This of course gets back to Lynley not really liking it when the women in his life don't act as he wants then to. Heck, this book sets up several unpleasant revelations regarding how he views his now wife. She is supposed to agree with him always and not take anyone else's side. This view of marriage is quite grim.
Havers though she's feeling thrown due to the ultimate decision about her police fate and now with Lynley not really talking to her or wanting to talk to her, is still focused on showing him what she can do. She also wants to prove him wrong and I can't blame her. I loved her burgeoning friendship with Winston though. He truly sees Havers for how she is and how good she is. Something Lynley often does not.
The writing was good, but could have been cut way back. Per usual George throws in POVs via a variety of people I won't get into here. The flow does work though because she keeps the book moving pretty crisply until you find out who the murder is and I really went what and shook my head.
The ending leaves things on a more hopeful and friendly note with Havers and Lynley though.
"In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner" has Lynley asked to investigate from a former undercover who was well renowned in the police force. The man's twenty year old daughter is found dead and a nearby young man is also found. Through a lot of twists and turns, Lynley finds out about a darker life that the young woman was embarking on. What I thought was interesting about this one is that so many people were setting out to protect others, but in the end, if any of them had been honest about things, I think a different ending would have happened.
Lynley is a prig in this one. He's pretty ticked that Havers disobeyed a direct order and he wants her to show some contrition about what she did. This of course gets back to Lynley not really liking it when the women in his life don't act as he wants then to. Heck, this book sets up several unpleasant revelations regarding how he views his now wife. She is supposed to agree with him always and not take anyone else's side. This view of marriage is quite grim.
Havers though she's feeling thrown due to the ultimate decision about her police fate and now with Lynley not really talking to her or wanting to talk to her, is still focused on showing him what she can do. She also wants to prove him wrong and I can't blame her. I loved her burgeoning friendship with Winston though. He truly sees Havers for how she is and how good she is. Something Lynley often does not.
The writing was good, but could have been cut way back. Per usual George throws in POVs via a variety of people I won't get into here. The flow does work though because she keeps the book moving pretty crisply until you find out who the murder is and I really went what and shook my head.
The ending leaves things on a more hopeful and friendly note with Havers and Lynley though.
October 22, 2012
This was a long book. Too often, I find myself disappointed when I get to the end of a story; having grown to know the characters, becoming interested in the created community beyond the immediate concerns of the plot and just enjoying the ride. Ms. George's Inspector Lynley books are becoming longer, it seems, with each new installment. Yet I am reading them as fast as I can. The characters are believable and presented warts and all (sometimes exploring their faults more than their strengths). This one was a bit surprising since the relationship between Lynley and Havers is strained, and neither one reacts as I would expect.
I would say the mystery aspect of the plot almost takes a backseat to the exploration of motives, prejudices, and the tendency to fail to see the big picture when we hone in on what we think is the truth.
I am very impressed with the author's use of language - I usually have to look up at least one word in the dictionary while reading her books. Also, the British verbiage is remarkable, seeing as the author is an American. The slang, dialects and phrases really keep you rooted in the UK. It does not have the feel of a mystery set in a generic location, with British place names inserted.
I would say the mystery aspect of the plot almost takes a backseat to the exploration of motives, prejudices, and the tendency to fail to see the big picture when we hone in on what we think is the truth.
I am very impressed with the author's use of language - I usually have to look up at least one word in the dictionary while reading her books. Also, the British verbiage is remarkable, seeing as the author is an American. The slang, dialects and phrases really keep you rooted in the UK. It does not have the feel of a mystery set in a generic location, with British place names inserted.
June 22, 2020
The mystery itself is quite good and I have a soft-spot for Havers but the way race, class and especially gender play out in this book is extremely problematic and most of those problems are personified in the arrogant and charmless Lynley.
Lynley manages to let his unacknowledged misogyny rule his relationships - both personal and professional, he let his hypocrisy rife because when he slips and doesn't follow the rules (eg when he roughs up a suspect because he is too emotional to stop and think) that is seen as an understandable part of his nature but he very obviously spends 600 tedious pages of a 700 page book expecting women to obey him and asking for an unquestioning loyalty which he does not return. To add insult to injury HE has talked Helen into marrying him against her inclinations and now he expects her to be nothing but the devoted countess to his absent and allowed to have other interests count.
When he is forced to reflect on himself he concludes it's because his Mum did something that made him sad when he was little that has quite understandably made him feel entitled to control all women. Which is very sad but understandable. That sort of misuse of psychoanalysis is enraging! Lynley shares many traits in common with three of the suspects as well as various other crimnal masculinities portrayed in the book. I was shocked at one stage where a suspects alibi was domestic violence (ie he was too busy roughing up his own wife to do the other crime) and this was not considered criminal behaviour. Mildly distasteful perhaps but not criminal.
WTAF????????
The main think I liked in the book (as usual) was Havers and her friendship with her neighbours (I hope it will grow into a wholesome romance but I have my doubts) is lovely. Interestingly the only men in the book who are not toxic are non-white (Ngkata and Haddiyah's father) or too good to be true servants (and happy with their lot in life). Rich white women have stupid emotional dependencies on men that stunt their intelligence. Basically my "eat the rich" reflex kicks in. Lynley's bullying of Havers (which is what it is) is justified in terms of the "chain of command" the proper way the police force works which is enough to make you question many things about the police force.
The portrayal of S and M is a whole other enraging issue but anyway...
All in all this book has some probably unintended effects in terms of class, gender and race critiques. I'm a bit shocked because the person who originally recommended this series to me was a feminist I really admired but maybe she reads to deconstruct. I just want more Havers less Lynley!
Lynley manages to let his unacknowledged misogyny rule his relationships - both personal and professional, he let his hypocrisy rife because when he slips and doesn't follow the rules (eg when he roughs up a suspect because he is too emotional to stop and think) that is seen as an understandable part of his nature but he very obviously spends 600 tedious pages of a 700 page book expecting women to obey him and asking for an unquestioning loyalty which he does not return. To add insult to injury HE has talked Helen into marrying him against her inclinations and now he expects her to be nothing but the devoted countess to his absent and allowed to have other interests count.
When he is forced to reflect on himself he concludes it's because his Mum did something that made him sad when he was little that has quite understandably made him feel entitled to control all women. Which is very sad but understandable. That sort of misuse of psychoanalysis is enraging! Lynley shares many traits in common with three of the suspects as well as various other crimnal masculinities portrayed in the book. I was shocked at one stage where a suspects alibi was domestic violence (ie he was too busy roughing up his own wife to do the other crime) and this was not considered criminal behaviour. Mildly distasteful perhaps but not criminal.
WTAF????????
The main think I liked in the book (as usual) was Havers and her friendship with her neighbours (I hope it will grow into a wholesome romance but I have my doubts) is lovely. Interestingly the only men in the book who are not toxic are non-white (Ngkata and Haddiyah's father) or too good to be true servants (and happy with their lot in life). Rich white women have stupid emotional dependencies on men that stunt their intelligence. Basically my "eat the rich" reflex kicks in. Lynley's bullying of Havers (which is what it is) is justified in terms of the "chain of command" the proper way the police force works which is enough to make you question many things about the police force.
The portrayal of S and M is a whole other enraging issue but anyway...
All in all this book has some probably unintended effects in terms of class, gender and race critiques. I'm a bit shocked because the person who originally recommended this series to me was a feminist I really admired but maybe she reads to deconstruct. I just want more Havers less Lynley!
March 23, 2017
Tenth in the Inspector Lynley mystery series set at Scotland Yard in London.
My Take
This was such a sad story on so many levels. The end of a family line. The end of hopes. The useless death of an amazing person.
In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner revolves around Nicola Maiden and her lifelong pursuit of what she wants…now — she never has learned the value of spiritual self-fulfillment. Nik has always gone for immediate gratification and stopped at nothing to ensure it with never a thought for how it might impact anyone around her.
Thomas is angry that Barbara could ignore the chain-of-command and is determined that she will learn her place while Lady Helen comes to a realization as to just why Thomas is really angry with Barbara.
A fascinating look at how three different, strong people approach the evidence and the judgments they make based on it, the different directions it takes them. Each party has strong reasons for their choices and any one of them could be correct.
In the end, it simply proves that one should never allow one's own perceptions to smear the evidence.
Lots of red herrings in this story. And each little fish is interesting in its own right.
The Story
The daughter of an old friend of Thomas' is missing. Well, missing until she's found brutally murdered out on the moors in a henge. Nor is she alone in her death, and it's this second victim that provides the clues and the public destruction of a number of people.
The clues lead all over and both tidy up and destroy a variety of people as Lynley, Nkata, Havers, and Hanken push their way through the evidence leading to a high-end escort service, a brilliantly successful musical in the West End, a couple of artists who will crack you up, a happily retired couple building their retirement with a successful yet intimate hotel, and a beleaguered young man doing what he can to revive the family fortunes.
The Characters
Lady Helen Lynley makes me rather nuts. She's never able to come right out and say anything. Instead she dances around a topic until I want to strangle her. She simply keeps pushing and pushing at a person just like a therapist does when they want you to come to the realization on your own. And it does work in this instance…making me crazy!!
What I like about Thomas Lynley is he can be such a stubborn ass, but he does mull things over and is willing to admit when he's wrong. A bit of a Neanderthal, but there's hope for this old dog to learn new tricks!
Barbara Havers has been on suspension for three months since the incident in Essex over the summer in Deception on His Mind , 9, and the final results are in. She also learns where Thomas stood on the issue. Barbara is even more of a bulldog on this case. I understand where she's coming from but, lord, she does need to learn.
DC Winston Nkata has a much greater role this time around — I do like him. He's intelligent with a great sense of humor and a desire to improve himself. I do like that we learn a bit more about his youthful history! He's also quite loyal and supportive.
Brief glimpses of Simon and Deborah with a bit more with Lady Helen. Hadiyyah is as sweet as ever although a bit annoying with the constant repetition while her father, Azhar, is still the most amazing man. The nasty Assistant Commissioner David Hillier makes a very brief, vituperative appearance.
Nicola Maiden is a spoiled brat. Her parents, Thomas' friends, Andrew and Nan, have always protected her from the negative aspect of her father's career
Detective Inspector Peter Hanken of the Buxton police force is less than happy that the victim's father has requested Scotland Yard intrude on his case. He does provide George with the opportunity to examine the motives of a parent in protecting their child…for all the good that does.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a bare interpretation of the murder scene with its sparse trees and not-enough stones for the Nine Sisters Henge. The title, however, is spot on as everyone from Havers to Lynley, Hanken to Maiden are all In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner.
My Take
This was such a sad story on so many levels. The end of a family line. The end of hopes. The useless death of an amazing person.
In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner revolves around Nicola Maiden and her lifelong pursuit of what she wants…now — she never has learned the value of spiritual self-fulfillment. Nik has always gone for immediate gratification and stopped at nothing to ensure it with never a thought for how it might impact anyone around her.
Thomas is angry that Barbara could ignore the chain-of-command and is determined that she will learn her place while Lady Helen comes to a realization as to just why Thomas is really angry with Barbara.
A fascinating look at how three different, strong people approach the evidence and the judgments they make based on it, the different directions it takes them. Each party has strong reasons for their choices and any one of them could be correct.
In the end, it simply proves that one should never allow one's own perceptions to smear the evidence.
Lots of red herrings in this story. And each little fish is interesting in its own right.
The Story
The daughter of an old friend of Thomas' is missing. Well, missing until she's found brutally murdered out on the moors in a henge. Nor is she alone in her death, and it's this second victim that provides the clues and the public destruction of a number of people.
The clues lead all over and both tidy up and destroy a variety of people as Lynley, Nkata, Havers, and Hanken push their way through the evidence leading to a high-end escort service, a brilliantly successful musical in the West End, a couple of artists who will crack you up, a happily retired couple building their retirement with a successful yet intimate hotel, and a beleaguered young man doing what he can to revive the family fortunes.
The Characters
Lady Helen Lynley makes me rather nuts. She's never able to come right out and say anything. Instead she dances around a topic until I want to strangle her. She simply keeps pushing and pushing at a person just like a therapist does when they want you to come to the realization on your own. And it does work in this instance…making me crazy!!
What I like about Thomas Lynley is he can be such a stubborn ass, but he does mull things over and is willing to admit when he's wrong. A bit of a Neanderthal, but there's hope for this old dog to learn new tricks!
Barbara Havers has been on suspension for three months since the incident in Essex over the summer in Deception on His Mind , 9, and the final results are in. She also learns where Thomas stood on the issue. Barbara is even more of a bulldog on this case. I understand where she's coming from but, lord, she does need to learn.
DC Winston Nkata has a much greater role this time around — I do like him. He's intelligent with a great sense of humor and a desire to improve himself. I do like that we learn a bit more about his youthful history! He's also quite loyal and supportive.
Brief glimpses of Simon and Deborah with a bit more with Lady Helen. Hadiyyah is as sweet as ever although a bit annoying with the constant repetition while her father, Azhar, is still the most amazing man. The nasty Assistant Commissioner David Hillier makes a very brief, vituperative appearance.
Nicola Maiden is a spoiled brat. Her parents, Thomas' friends, Andrew and Nan, have always protected her from the negative aspect of her father's career
Detective Inspector Peter Hanken of the Buxton police force is less than happy that the victim's father has requested Scotland Yard intrude on his case. He does provide George with the opportunity to examine the motives of a parent in protecting their child…for all the good that does.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a bare interpretation of the murder scene with its sparse trees and not-enough stones for the Nine Sisters Henge. The title, however, is spot on as everyone from Havers to Lynley, Hanken to Maiden are all In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner.
May 4, 2008
This is the Finnish version of Elizabeth George : In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner.
The book was quite lengthy and got a bit boring at times. The story just didn't seem to go anywhere though it grew roots to every direction. I guess crime investigations are like that in real life too. I didn't like Thomas Lynley at all, he acted too "I'm so much more sophisticated than others". Not that I liked Barbara much more, she was as odd as Lynley.
The thing that wondered me most is how come they really thought the murderer was after Nicola? Nicola had been killed neatly, but instead the boy had multiple stab wounds and blood all over the place. Any police should know that if the murder is messy, it's usually done by a person who knows the victim. If the victim is killed "cleanly", like Nicola was, the murderer didn't know the victim and just had to kill her. This little thing ruined the basic plot so badly, that I had no respect for polices that slobby in their jobs.
At least the story had lots of twists and turns, so I did finish it.
The book was quite lengthy and got a bit boring at times. The story just didn't seem to go anywhere though it grew roots to every direction. I guess crime investigations are like that in real life too. I didn't like Thomas Lynley at all, he acted too "I'm so much more sophisticated than others". Not that I liked Barbara much more, she was as odd as Lynley.
The thing that wondered me most is how come they really thought the murderer was after Nicola? Nicola had been killed neatly, but instead the boy had multiple stab wounds and blood all over the place. Any police should know that if the murder is messy, it's usually done by a person who knows the victim. If the victim is killed "cleanly", like Nicola was, the murderer didn't know the victim and just had to kill her. This little thing ruined the basic plot so badly, that I had no respect for polices that slobby in their jobs.
At least the story had lots of twists and turns, so I did finish it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2017
Well this is the 10th book I have read by this author. It was 594 pages long and a heavy hardback. I'm always impressed with the author's vocabulary and after reading 10 books with the same characters my fondness grows for them. There was some friction between Detective Inspector Lynley and Barbara Havers in this episode which was unsetting and bothered me. Up to this point they worked well together with mutual admiration, however now I feared I was about to lose a favorite character. I'm happy to say it concluded to my satisfaction.
April 1, 2012
Yea! YaY!! Tommy finally sees why Barb had to shoot at the DCI to save her little neighbor. Of course his illumination comes about because of Helen, who is far more intelligent than she or her friends give her credit. I love Helen, she is by far my favorite character, she is bubbly, happy and yet conflicted about her importance in the world. She is the kind of friend I would love to cultivate, someone who is loyal to a fault and fun to be with. The mystery was so involved--as all EG's books are--It made me think about the murdered girl's choices. Her parents were baffled by her choice to lead a low lifestyle when she had been brought up with love and advantages. It all comes down to free will. You can teach a child to follow a path but there comes a time when they must decide if they will stay on it. Sad ending for the murdered girls parents all around. Good read.
November 20, 2020
Boy, a lot of characters bugged the crap out of me in this book. At the top of the list is Thomas Lynley, himself. He should know the girl in Essex was not some random child, but someone Barbara knew (since in a previous book he knew she was looking for a birthday present for Hadiyyah). Of course, the way he was acting, maybe he didn't bother garnering this information from Barbara. I also disliked DI Hanken. Good detectives don't have tunnel vision, zeroing in on one suspect and disregarding all others. Yet that's what he did. And I liked Nicola less and less as the book went on. The last straw was when the reader learns she told her father not to expect any financial help in his old age. She was self-centered and materialistic in the extreme (aside from being a skank). And Lynley, Havers and Webberley's superior, David Hillier, is always an ass.
By contrast, thank heaven, we have characters who win our admiration. Helen continues to show why she is one of my favorites with her thoughtful defense of Barbara and her genuine extension of friendship. Poor Winston was stuck in the middle, yet he still managed to convey a strong sense of loyalty to Barbara.
A couple of other negative aspects. Once again, Ms. George obsesses over looks. It seems poor Barbara can't get through a day without being called a cow or a pig. I hate to disabuse Ms. George's suppositions, but average-looking people (i.e. not cute and perky) are not assailed daily with ugly insults. Most people mature overtime and playground insults are left behind by most aside from the pathetic few. As I've stated in the past, Ms. George also seems obsessed with sex. Plot points revolving around this topic are fine in doses, but every single time? Try branching out a little and being more creative. Don't have nearly every single motive driven by lust. And once again, the book is too long by half.
The best part happened near the end. I am so glad that Azhar found out the truth of what happened on that boat in Essex. Bumps up the rating a notch. Yet I couldn't give more than 3 stars because of the ungodly length of the book. Over 700 pages!!!
By contrast, thank heaven, we have characters who win our admiration. Helen continues to show why she is one of my favorites with her thoughtful defense of Barbara and her genuine extension of friendship. Poor Winston was stuck in the middle, yet he still managed to convey a strong sense of loyalty to Barbara.
A couple of other negative aspects. Once again, Ms. George obsesses over looks. It seems poor Barbara can't get through a day without being called a cow or a pig. I hate to disabuse Ms. George's suppositions, but average-looking people (i.e. not cute and perky) are not assailed daily with ugly insults. Most people mature overtime and playground insults are left behind by most aside from the pathetic few. As I've stated in the past, Ms. George also seems obsessed with sex. Plot points revolving around this topic are fine in doses, but every single time? Try branching out a little and being more creative. Don't have nearly every single motive driven by lust. And once again, the book is too long by half.
The best part happened near the end. I am so glad that Azhar found out the truth of what happened on that boat in Essex. Bumps up the rating a notch. Yet I couldn't give more than 3 stars because of the ungodly length of the book. Over 700 pages!!!
April 28, 2009
As usual, Elizabeth George keeps me glued to the pages, and sporadically reaching for the dictionary (reredos?).
I find it interesting that some people gave this one fewer stars because they hated the way Lynley behaved toward Havers etc. HELLO? THEY AREN'T REAL PEOPLE, PEOPLE! The fact that we are disappointed in him sort of indicates EG's skill at characterization, wouldn't you say?
Anyhow, complex plot, and I didn't recall all the details from the first time I read it (I get her stuff ASAP and devour it, then re-read in a few years)so the plot twists were surprising...probably one good thing about getting older, I can re-read mysteries and still be surprised.
Although this one came after, it made me want to re-read Deception on His Mind, so . . .
I find it interesting that some people gave this one fewer stars because they hated the way Lynley behaved toward Havers etc. HELLO? THEY AREN'T REAL PEOPLE, PEOPLE! The fact that we are disappointed in him sort of indicates EG's skill at characterization, wouldn't you say?
Anyhow, complex plot, and I didn't recall all the details from the first time I read it (I get her stuff ASAP and devour it, then re-read in a few years)so the plot twists were surprising...probably one good thing about getting older, I can re-read mysteries and still be surprised.
Although this one came after, it made me want to re-read Deception on His Mind, so . . .
June 25, 2008
I think like most Elizabeth George fans, I got frustrated with the way Lynley behaved in this book. Normally I get through her books in a flash, but with this one I got so bogged down in the Havers/Lynley mess. One of the things I like so much about this series is their relationship and it was on the skids. I wanted to hit him.
But, it was George, so it was still a good read.
But, it was George, so it was still a good read.
May 28, 2008
Coming in at number ten in the series, this one took a whole different tack. While I was completely annoyed with the fact that Lynley and Havers were on the outs, I can't deny it was an interesting story as a result. Having three people involved in the case doggedly pursuing different suspects was a truly interesting twist. So many little twists within the twists, too. I have to say that I read this one faster than the others... if only to get to the reconciliation between the two detectives. Though, I have to say that Lynley's pigheadedness has rather put me off him a bit... I'd better get to that next one soon so that he can hopefully redeem himself in my eyes!
George is an expert and weaving intricate, detailed tales that often lead in every direction as indeed police investigations often do. In this case, I have to wonder about her research regarding the world of domination and S&M, as well as escorts!
George is an expert and weaving intricate, detailed tales that often lead in every direction as indeed police investigations often do. In this case, I have to wonder about her research regarding the world of domination and S&M, as well as escorts!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2021
Too long, too much implicit and explicit misogyny, some racism, and excessive psychologising and existential musing. Despite that, it is an intriguing story, and George writes well. I'm really starting to dislike Lynley. He makes so many mistakes, and the female characters continue to forgive him because he expresses some remorse. We know he will keep making the same mistakes, though. I doubt that George is really deconstructing misogyny and class, which is probably what she would assert. I'm starting to suspect that she is reinforcing some dreadful gender and class assumptions.
May 29, 2024
“Deception On His Mind” had such an explosive ending, I leaped into this sequel to see the outcome. This was hard to read because Barbara’s heroism with clear, positive results, was judged harshly by Thomas Lynley. I despised him throughout this story. His wife and friends easily understood that saving a life superseded every consideration.
Thomas only relented after making an error in this case, despite having days for thorough deliberation. He comprehended that Barbara had only had seconds in which to act, in her previous, solo case. Thomas’s epiphany was stark. His judgement had lost a life but her instinct saved one. Her judgement was a triumph, not a transgression.
I drew relief in this 718 page mystery from Barbara’s bond with Hadiyyah & Azhar and likeable, intelligent officer Winston Nkata becoming a prominent character. Thomas wanted Barbara in the background, making it beneficial to have Winston working with Thomas or Barbara directly.
“In Pursuit Of The Proper Sinner” was so complex, I forgot about the musician upon whom the novel opened. Numerous characters had problems that might provoke a murder. They spanned from the moors, into the sex trade of 1999 London. Readers who bemoan motives they can work out, would relish such far-ranging issues; that only Barbara’s tenacity and Winston’s trust in her, sifted them out! Barbara faced another case in which she had to disobey orders that were on the wrong track.
The Daughter of moor hoteliers was slain, beside a man they did not know. Their neighbour loved Nicola Maiden, whose alcoholic Father could hardly afford their dilapidated manor. Nicola’s London roommates were artists and hookers, who had worked for a suspicious couple’s seedy company. Elizabeth George achieved a multifaceted head-scratcher that I applaud with five stars! I can’t believe all these plots fit together.
Thomas only relented after making an error in this case, despite having days for thorough deliberation. He comprehended that Barbara had only had seconds in which to act, in her previous, solo case. Thomas’s epiphany was stark. His judgement had lost a life but her instinct saved one. Her judgement was a triumph, not a transgression.
I drew relief in this 718 page mystery from Barbara’s bond with Hadiyyah & Azhar and likeable, intelligent officer Winston Nkata becoming a prominent character. Thomas wanted Barbara in the background, making it beneficial to have Winston working with Thomas or Barbara directly.
“In Pursuit Of The Proper Sinner” was so complex, I forgot about the musician upon whom the novel opened. Numerous characters had problems that might provoke a murder. They spanned from the moors, into the sex trade of 1999 London. Readers who bemoan motives they can work out, would relish such far-ranging issues; that only Barbara’s tenacity and Winston’s trust in her, sifted them out! Barbara faced another case in which she had to disobey orders that were on the wrong track.
The Daughter of moor hoteliers was slain, beside a man they did not know. Their neighbour loved Nicola Maiden, whose alcoholic Father could hardly afford their dilapidated manor. Nicola’s London roommates were artists and hookers, who had worked for a suspicious couple’s seedy company. Elizabeth George achieved a multifaceted head-scratcher that I applaud with five stars! I can’t believe all these plots fit together.
January 6, 2017
Een interessant boek. Je wordt steeds op het verkeerde been gezet wie de dader is van de moorden. In dit boek wordt grondig speurwerk verricht. Dat is wat mij wel aanspreekt bij de boeken van Elizabeth George. Verschillende verdachten komen aan bod en elk spoor wordt onderzocht. Soms heb je bij thrillers dat vanaf het begin haast wel duidelijk is wie het gedaan heeft. Dat is bij dit boek niet het geval. Wat wel grappig is, is dat in dit boek verwezen wordt naar het boek Rebecca van Daphne du Maurier. Dat boek heb ik laatst gelezen. Zo tegen het einde mocht de ontknoping van mij wel komen. Toen zat ik er echt op te wachten. Helaas moest ik toen nog een kleine 100 blz. Normaal ben ik ook niet zo'n liefhebber van hele dikke boeken. (Deze is 646 blz.) Ik vind dit echter wel een leuke serie, dus daarom begin ik er dan toch aan. Al met al toch wel een interessant boek.
April 6, 2022
When you start one of these novels, you know you're in for a lengthy detailed case, so I'm always hesitant to start, but haven't been disappointed yet. This could be my favorite yet, as the characters are really becoming good acquaintances of mine, with all the human flaws seen in everyone I know. Lynley is up for learning a lesson in this episode, as he delves into the murder of an old colleague's daughter. It's an emotional story that kept me guessing til the end, and the end brought a tear to my eye.
August 3, 2022
I'd give it a 3.5. Might have been a 4 but i find,that lynleys actions,always seems,to to too easulily forgiven. His hostility to babara i didnt like and helens still explains lynleys flaws to easily away. Aside,from that the mystery was pretty good.
Side note: Maybe a little less fpcus,on a characters inner musings as it,didnt really add much of anything to the story for,me.
Side note: Maybe a little less fpcus,on a characters inner musings as it,didnt really add much of anything to the story for,me.
July 27, 2020
Brilliant (as usual).
January 13, 2023
This series is superb! I really love how the author seamlessly leads from one book to the next but the focus changes to a new character and that character's thoughts and experiences so that you get a wonderful rounding out of them and get to see the other players in a new viewpoint. It's quite glorious! Plus it really makes you want to pick up the next book to see where it goes from there. A murder mystery series it may be, but the intricate plots and the character development are bar none.
This particular edition in the series has you split between the detecting duo of Lynley and Havers as they work a case in their particular fashions, with Lynley ignoring his team mate because of her fall from grace (in the previous novel) and Havers going against the grain as she investigates the other side of the murder that her boss has dismissed because he refuses to acknowledge any other options but his own. It makes for great tension and really adds to the pressure.
I loved how this one really showcases how difficult it is to track down and find a killer. The details and how they are interpreted can be the difference between charging someone innocent and someone guilty. How things can go out of hand if you don't keep an open mind to all the possibilities. How important it is to listen to all the scenerios, even though you don't want to. Often what seems so cut and dried can end up being a real mess and things are dredged up that aren't what you expect.
A great book! Can't wait to carry on with the series.
This particular edition in the series has you split between the detecting duo of Lynley and Havers as they work a case in their particular fashions, with Lynley ignoring his team mate because of her fall from grace (in the previous novel) and Havers going against the grain as she investigates the other side of the murder that her boss has dismissed because he refuses to acknowledge any other options but his own. It makes for great tension and really adds to the pressure.
I loved how this one really showcases how difficult it is to track down and find a killer. The details and how they are interpreted can be the difference between charging someone innocent and someone guilty. How things can go out of hand if you don't keep an open mind to all the possibilities. How important it is to listen to all the scenerios, even though you don't want to. Often what seems so cut and dried can end up being a real mess and things are dredged up that aren't what you expect.
A great book! Can't wait to carry on with the series.
May 22, 2018
Lynley has it in for Havers because she didn't follow proper chain of command in a previous case, and also shot an officer. Now she gets scut work as well as demotion. He's off to Derbyshire to assist in an investigation of the murder of the daughter of an old Scotland Yard colleague, and doesn't want Havers involved, even though she's on the right trail.
March 6, 2023
What can I say about this series that I haven't already said? The books are fun, the nurse's mysteries are good, I love the characters and the interpersonal relationships, all stuff I've said before. It all still holds true with this book and I'm already looking forward to the next.
October 7, 2017
My only reason for not giving this book 5 stars is that it wasn't as tight a story or as compelling a tale as the one that preceded it. The title is quite apt in that there are two murdered bodies found on the moor, a girl and a guy, but because the girl was the daughter of a former undercover rozzer, that is the reason Lynley is called to assist with the investigation and the angle they pursue from the start.
After Havers last case she had expected she might be in trouble, but she had thought Lynley would be the one to take her part and go to bat for her. But when he instead tries to show her the error of her ways, show her who's boss, demonstrate the discipline of the chain of command and set her down a peg (enough cliche`s?), she chafes at his heavy hand. And Barbara being Havers, she does what he asks of her (only just) and then in her 'free time' investigates other aspects of the case and develops a different lead suspect.
And what Lynley fails to understand is that his friends, and his wife, and even the second constable he added to the case in place of Havers, Winston Nkata, all see that perhaps his characterization of Barbara and his set down of her is more to do with her gender than what she actually did in Essex on the case in which she involved herself while on leave.
But in the end, after Lynley's judgement in the case leads to tragedy and with his wife Helen's gentle hand, Lynley of his own volition realizes his relationship with his mother has colored his judgement about Havers actions in Essex and with this last case and they reconcile.
**********************************************
As I added the notes above to my personal book journal I found I had read this before but had absolutely zero recollection of it at all. And seeing the date I had finished it in the past I know why I had no recall of it. It was read in the summer of 2008 just six weeks before my father died of cancer. I had been reading like a fiend as distraction ever since his diagnosis some 15 months previous some 83 books, easily one a week. And what I wrote then shows I wasn't really reading.
**********************************************
I've started the bad habit of not finishing books I've started and by my count I have six going (some started nearly a year ago), but not this one. I started this up north last weekend visiting for the folks 50th Anniversary and what we know will be the last. This is the second E. George novel I've read with Inspector Lynley and Barbara Havers. George writes a very dense and complicated tale. Very dark in tone, not only because it deals with murder, but it explores the sick and twisted side of humanity, the part more animalistic than human. Lynley is called to the Peak district to assist in the murder of a young couple, the dead girl the daughter of a retired colleague. Nicola Maiden was pampered by her parents and grew up to be materialistic, and a bit of a wild child. She became a dominatrix whore meting out punishment for money and Lynley is convinced she was the intended target not the guy she was with, that one of her lovers wanted her exclusively and struck them down in a jealous rage. Lynley & Havers are on the outs. She's been demoted over a previous case and he thinks she needs to learn a lesson and gives her grunt work to do and ignores her when she puts forth ideas that point to the guy as the target. This time Havers was right. George also continues to explore relationships between men and women. There were two passages in the middle of the book I marked, one - the thoughts of a spinster thinking fondly of the days of marriage of convenience, the other is Lynley waxing poetic on the 'transcendent joy' that sex in marriage should be.
**************************************
2017 - noting what I had marked nine years ago, versus the passage I marked during this read: I was drawn to a passage on page 536 when the dead girl's father reflects on her materialism and the 'career' she chose entirely because of the money it would provide for her to buy anything she desired. That out of guilt over his time spent away from his only child in his career he'd been an easy touch when she wanted something special. He saw that she was caught in a pattern of endless dissatisfaction - samsara. This dharma lesson was the passage I marked: "And when she acquired what she had begged to possess, she wasn't able to see that it satisfied her only briefly. Her vision was occluded from this knowledge because what stood in her way was always the desire for the next object that she believed would soothe her soul".
After Havers last case she had expected she might be in trouble, but she had thought Lynley would be the one to take her part and go to bat for her. But when he instead tries to show her the error of her ways, show her who's boss, demonstrate the discipline of the chain of command and set her down a peg (enough cliche`s?), she chafes at his heavy hand. And Barbara being Havers, she does what he asks of her (only just) and then in her 'free time' investigates other aspects of the case and develops a different lead suspect.
And what Lynley fails to understand is that his friends, and his wife, and even the second constable he added to the case in place of Havers, Winston Nkata, all see that perhaps his characterization of Barbara and his set down of her is more to do with her gender than what she actually did in Essex on the case in which she involved herself while on leave.
But in the end, after Lynley's judgement in the case leads to tragedy and with his wife Helen's gentle hand, Lynley of his own volition realizes his relationship with his mother has colored his judgement about Havers actions in Essex and with this last case and they reconcile.
**********************************************
As I added the notes above to my personal book journal I found I had read this before but had absolutely zero recollection of it at all. And seeing the date I had finished it in the past I know why I had no recall of it. It was read in the summer of 2008 just six weeks before my father died of cancer. I had been reading like a fiend as distraction ever since his diagnosis some 15 months previous some 83 books, easily one a week. And what I wrote then shows I wasn't really reading.
**********************************************
I've started the bad habit of not finishing books I've started and by my count I have six going (some started nearly a year ago), but not this one. I started this up north last weekend visiting for the folks 50th Anniversary and what we know will be the last. This is the second E. George novel I've read with Inspector Lynley and Barbara Havers. George writes a very dense and complicated tale. Very dark in tone, not only because it deals with murder, but it explores the sick and twisted side of humanity, the part more animalistic than human. Lynley is called to the Peak district to assist in the murder of a young couple, the dead girl the daughter of a retired colleague. Nicola Maiden was pampered by her parents and grew up to be materialistic, and a bit of a wild child. She became a dominatrix whore meting out punishment for money and Lynley is convinced she was the intended target not the guy she was with, that one of her lovers wanted her exclusively and struck them down in a jealous rage. Lynley & Havers are on the outs. She's been demoted over a previous case and he thinks she needs to learn a lesson and gives her grunt work to do and ignores her when she puts forth ideas that point to the guy as the target. This time Havers was right. George also continues to explore relationships between men and women. There were two passages in the middle of the book I marked, one - the thoughts of a spinster thinking fondly of the days of marriage of convenience, the other is Lynley waxing poetic on the 'transcendent joy' that sex in marriage should be.
**************************************
2017 - noting what I had marked nine years ago, versus the passage I marked during this read: I was drawn to a passage on page 536 when the dead girl's father reflects on her materialism and the 'career' she chose entirely because of the money it would provide for her to buy anything she desired. That out of guilt over his time spent away from his only child in his career he'd been an easy touch when she wanted something special. He saw that she was caught in a pattern of endless dissatisfaction - samsara. This dharma lesson was the passage I marked: "And when she acquired what she had begged to possess, she wasn't able to see that it satisfied her only briefly. Her vision was occluded from this knowledge because what stood in her way was always the desire for the next object that she believed would soothe her soul".
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2021
I love mysteries, and no one writes better mysteries than Elizabeth George. I am totally in love with her "Inspector Lynley" series. I was disappointed that her long awaited Lynley #21 was not going to be released in May 2021, but had been pushed back to January 2022; however, I understand that the author wants every word to be perfect and needed some extra time to finish her latest masterpiece. Suffice to say, I will read SOMETHING TO HIDE the day it is released.
Until the coming winter, and the release of SOMETHING TO HIDE, I've been entertaining myself with rereads of Ms. George's books. My latest reread was the masterful IN PURSUIT OF THE PROPER SINNER. I had read this book when it was published, but because of its complexity, I didn't remember every detail. My rereading was wonderful.
The first thing I noticed when I began reading this book was the high quality of Ms. George's prose, especially when compared to other mysteries. I love that. I love that Ms. George takes the time to give us the best written books possible.
I also love all the subplots she creates. If you follow her on Instagram, like I do, you know the creation of even one of these complex mysteries is a huge undertaking. Yet Ms. George balances all the characters and subplots like a master juggler with so many balls in the air.
Thankfully, both Lynley and Havers were featured in this book (although I also enjoyed DECEPTION ON HIS MIND, which featured only Havers, Lynley being away on his honeymoon). I also enjoyed Winston Nkata and, of course, Azhar and his charming daughter, Hadiyyah. There were, of course, characters I didn't care for, but they were written to be despicable. And of course, the list of suspects was long. If anyone tells me they had the whole thing figured out before reaching the climax, I'm not going to believe them. This book was far too complex for that.
Elizabeth George's books are always quite dark, but I love that darkness. I am not a fan of cozies other than an occasional Miss Marple. Ms. George also writes about social issues endemic in today's UK, and I enjoy that aspect of her books as well. Most enjoyable of all, is the fact that Ms. George gives us a very well written mystery, with lots of complexity, lots of ambiguity, lots of characters, and a very satisfying ending. How she does this, time after time, is simply beyond my imagination. It has to be even more work than her photos depict, but I'm thankful she enjoys doing it.
This is a wonderful book in the "Inspector Lynley" series. It can stand alone, as can all her books, but you really get the most out of them if you read them in order. The relationships among the core characters are quite dynamic, and that dynamism is something that only adds to the enjoyment.
I can't recommend IN PURSUIT OF THE PROPER SINNER highly enough. It's a wonderful mystery that will keep you reading all night or during the day, when you should be doing other things. For me, these are the best mysteries ever written. I'll be so glad when "Inspector Lynley" #21 is released in January. I so look forward to spending time with Lynley, Havers, and Nakata again. They've become best friends.
Until the coming winter, and the release of SOMETHING TO HIDE, I've been entertaining myself with rereads of Ms. George's books. My latest reread was the masterful IN PURSUIT OF THE PROPER SINNER. I had read this book when it was published, but because of its complexity, I didn't remember every detail. My rereading was wonderful.
The first thing I noticed when I began reading this book was the high quality of Ms. George's prose, especially when compared to other mysteries. I love that. I love that Ms. George takes the time to give us the best written books possible.
I also love all the subplots she creates. If you follow her on Instagram, like I do, you know the creation of even one of these complex mysteries is a huge undertaking. Yet Ms. George balances all the characters and subplots like a master juggler with so many balls in the air.
Thankfully, both Lynley and Havers were featured in this book (although I also enjoyed DECEPTION ON HIS MIND, which featured only Havers, Lynley being away on his honeymoon). I also enjoyed Winston Nkata and, of course, Azhar and his charming daughter, Hadiyyah. There were, of course, characters I didn't care for, but they were written to be despicable. And of course, the list of suspects was long. If anyone tells me they had the whole thing figured out before reaching the climax, I'm not going to believe them. This book was far too complex for that.
Elizabeth George's books are always quite dark, but I love that darkness. I am not a fan of cozies other than an occasional Miss Marple. Ms. George also writes about social issues endemic in today's UK, and I enjoy that aspect of her books as well. Most enjoyable of all, is the fact that Ms. George gives us a very well written mystery, with lots of complexity, lots of ambiguity, lots of characters, and a very satisfying ending. How she does this, time after time, is simply beyond my imagination. It has to be even more work than her photos depict, but I'm thankful she enjoys doing it.
This is a wonderful book in the "Inspector Lynley" series. It can stand alone, as can all her books, but you really get the most out of them if you read them in order. The relationships among the core characters are quite dynamic, and that dynamism is something that only adds to the enjoyment.
I can't recommend IN PURSUIT OF THE PROPER SINNER highly enough. It's a wonderful mystery that will keep you reading all night or during the day, when you should be doing other things. For me, these are the best mysteries ever written. I'll be so glad when "Inspector Lynley" #21 is released in January. I so look forward to spending time with Lynley, Havers, and Nakata again. They've become best friends.
February 8, 2020
I read this book for my book club and it is the first one of this series I've read. I think the book suffered for the lack of background I had. The investigation is fine and the mystery is resolved as they usually are, but the real story in this book was the animosity between Havers and Lynley, who used to be best buds. Havers did something in the last book that Lynley disagrees with and now he doesn't really trust is ex-sidekick. She kicks butt while solving the mystery for him against his wishes and Lynley comes across looking like a jerk. I'm sure that if I had read the first 9 books, I'd have felt less like strangling him, but there you go. I did sneak a peak at the end of the 9th book to find out what happened to make Havers such a Pariah. I'd have done the same and I can't believe Lynley didn't take her side!
And the murder victims were so unappealing that I really didn't care who killed them.
I thought the book was a bit rambling and on the long side ( I'll point to a part where Lynley waxed philosophical about London's history for a while). The plot went in so many directions and seemed to drag on a bit. Only the last quarter of the book really grabbed my attention and made me not want to put it down. And the S & M plot line was a bit of a surprise. Maybe it should be in the jacket description or something because some people may not appreciate it popping up in their book! And the incest plot line was weird and a bit of a turn off.
This book wasn't a feminist's dream. British Police Constables who were women apparently had a W tacked on the front of their rank until 1999 to make sure that everyone knew they were female. And the female WPCs were shown to sit around chatting in the office. The empowered female characters were mostly prostitutes and Havers was described in unflattering terms about her looks and weight frequently. In one memorable scene, Lynley describes a character as "plain but hardy, of peasant stock, a perfect specimen for childbearing and labour on the land." Sigh.
Lynley's argument with his wife was weird. Helen forgave him and said "Words aren't reality..." and implied that he didn't need to apologize and that there was nothing to forgive. Okay, let's see if she is saying that after she's been married for more than a couple of weeks! :)
This author loves her fifty dollar (pound?) vocabulary words! I consider myself pretty well-educated but I had to look up about 20 words. I also had to look up some British terms that I wasn't familiar with.
I totally wish I could go see Hamlet the Musical. :)
And the murder victims were so unappealing that I really didn't care who killed them.
I thought the book was a bit rambling and on the long side ( I'll point to a part where Lynley waxed philosophical about London's history for a while). The plot went in so many directions and seemed to drag on a bit. Only the last quarter of the book really grabbed my attention and made me not want to put it down. And the S & M plot line was a bit of a surprise. Maybe it should be in the jacket description or something because some people may not appreciate it popping up in their book! And the incest plot line was weird and a bit of a turn off.
This book wasn't a feminist's dream. British Police Constables who were women apparently had a W tacked on the front of their rank until 1999 to make sure that everyone knew they were female. And the female WPCs were shown to sit around chatting in the office. The empowered female characters were mostly prostitutes and Havers was described in unflattering terms about her looks and weight frequently. In one memorable scene, Lynley describes a character as "plain but hardy, of peasant stock, a perfect specimen for childbearing and labour on the land." Sigh.
Lynley's argument with his wife was weird. Helen forgave him and said "Words aren't reality..." and implied that he didn't need to apologize and that there was nothing to forgive. Okay, let's see if she is saying that after she's been married for more than a couple of weeks! :)
This author loves her fifty dollar (pound?) vocabulary words! I consider myself pretty well-educated but I had to look up about 20 words. I also had to look up some British terms that I wasn't familiar with.
I totally wish I could go see Hamlet the Musical. :)
January 15, 2025
In diesem Teil ist das Verhältnis zwischen Thomas Lynley und Barbara Havers mehr als gestört. Grund dafür sind die Ereignisse aus dem Teil davor, der Barbara eine Suspendierung eingebracht hat. Beide sind enttäuscht voneinander: Lynley von Barbaras Verhalten und Barbara davon, dass er nicht zu ihr gehalten hat. Deswegen gibt es auch in diesem Teil immer wieder Streit zwischen den beiden und ich schlage mich hier auf Barbaras Seite. Lynley sieht nur das, was sie getan hat, der Grund ist ihm egal und er bestraft sie ein ums andere Mal dafür. Dass er Nkata nach Derbyshire mitnimmt und Barbara eine öde Aufgabe nach der anderen in London zuweist, scheint ihm fast Spaß zu machen. Der Kleinkrieg zwischen den beiden ist nicht nur anstrengend zu lesen. Er führt auch dazu, dass die Ermittlungen nicht so rund laufen, wie sie laufen könnten.
Dieses Mal ist es mir schwer gefallen, Mitleid mit den Opfern zu fühlen. Nicht, dass sie ihr Schicksal verdient hätten. Aber je mehr ich gerade über Nicola erfahre, desto unsympathischer wird sie mir. Sie macht, was sie will, ohne auch nur einen Moment darüber nachzudenken, ob sie damit jemand verletzt. Nicht nur damit, was sie macht, sondern auch, wie sie es tut. Ihr sind die Gefühle der Menschen in ihrer Umgebung völlig egal und es macht ihr nichts aus, sie vor den Kopf zu stoßen.
Das neue Duo Winston Nkata und Barbara Havers passt gut zusammen. Anfangs sind sie sich des anderen noch nicht sicher im Verlauf der Ermittlungen lernen sie, einander zu vertrauen. Winston baut Barbara wieder ein wenig auf, auch wenn der Schmerz über den Verrat immer noch tief sitzt.
Es gibt viele mögliche Szenarien, was abgelaufen sein kann und warum die beiden jungen Menschen ermordet wurden. Die Ermittlungen laufen mal in die eine, mal in die andere Richtung. Ich fand sie nicht immer stimmig, gerade weil in Derbyshire und London an unterschiedlichen Ansätzen gearbeitet wurde und Lynley Barbaras Erkenntnisse komplett ignoriert. Den Handlungsstrang von Nicolas und Samantha hätte ich so ausgebreitet nicht gebraucht, da hat sich für meinen Geschmack zu viel wiederholt.
Mich überrascht beim Lesen der älteren Fälle immer wieder, wie unsympathisch ich Thomas Lynley ich jetzt stellenweise finde. Vielleicht deshalb, weil er sich (glücklicherweise) so verändert hat. Vielleicht aber auch deshalb, weil mir viel mehr auffällt, wie er die Menschen in seinem Umfeld behandelt und wie wenig mir das gefällt. Aber trotz aller Kritik hat mir der rereRead besser gefallen als bei den ersten beiden Malen.
Dieses Mal ist es mir schwer gefallen, Mitleid mit den Opfern zu fühlen. Nicht, dass sie ihr Schicksal verdient hätten. Aber je mehr ich gerade über Nicola erfahre, desto unsympathischer wird sie mir. Sie macht, was sie will, ohne auch nur einen Moment darüber nachzudenken, ob sie damit jemand verletzt. Nicht nur damit, was sie macht, sondern auch, wie sie es tut. Ihr sind die Gefühle der Menschen in ihrer Umgebung völlig egal und es macht ihr nichts aus, sie vor den Kopf zu stoßen.
Das neue Duo Winston Nkata und Barbara Havers passt gut zusammen. Anfangs sind sie sich des anderen noch nicht sicher im Verlauf der Ermittlungen lernen sie, einander zu vertrauen. Winston baut Barbara wieder ein wenig auf, auch wenn der Schmerz über den Verrat immer noch tief sitzt.
Es gibt viele mögliche Szenarien, was abgelaufen sein kann und warum die beiden jungen Menschen ermordet wurden. Die Ermittlungen laufen mal in die eine, mal in die andere Richtung. Ich fand sie nicht immer stimmig, gerade weil in Derbyshire und London an unterschiedlichen Ansätzen gearbeitet wurde und Lynley Barbaras Erkenntnisse komplett ignoriert. Den Handlungsstrang von Nicolas und Samantha hätte ich so ausgebreitet nicht gebraucht, da hat sich für meinen Geschmack zu viel wiederholt.
Mich überrascht beim Lesen der älteren Fälle immer wieder, wie unsympathisch ich Thomas Lynley ich jetzt stellenweise finde. Vielleicht deshalb, weil er sich (glücklicherweise) so verändert hat. Vielleicht aber auch deshalb, weil mir viel mehr auffällt, wie er die Menschen in seinem Umfeld behandelt und wie wenig mir das gefällt. Aber trotz aller Kritik hat mir der rereRead besser gefallen als bei den ersten beiden Malen.
October 23, 2024
Probably Elizabeth George's most well written novel to date. I have been reading them in order and they really have improved over time. This novel takes place right after her last novel which was a detective Havers solo adventure. Havers gets punished for her actions in that novel here.
This should easily have been a 4 star novel. I really feel connected to the characters. Only problem I have is Elizabeth George doesn't realize we all do not want to read a 500 page novel that is expanded to 700 pages for no reason. 10 opening Prologue pages to explain a backstory that easily could have been 3 pages. Many chapters are stretched out in this manner. Is there a proper editor for Elizabeth George? Just the extensive use of big words where they are not needed. Murder mysteries do not need 700 pages. I find myself rushing because there are so many books I want to read and Elizabeth George is bogging me down with excess filler. I still recommend this excellent read. Just a bit too long for this story. Respectfully, Thomas.
This should easily have been a 4 star novel. I really feel connected to the characters. Only problem I have is Elizabeth George doesn't realize we all do not want to read a 500 page novel that is expanded to 700 pages for no reason. 10 opening Prologue pages to explain a backstory that easily could have been 3 pages. Many chapters are stretched out in this manner. Is there a proper editor for Elizabeth George? Just the extensive use of big words where they are not needed. Murder mysteries do not need 700 pages. I find myself rushing because there are so many books I want to read and Elizabeth George is bogging me down with excess filler. I still recommend this excellent read. Just a bit too long for this story. Respectfully, Thomas.
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