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Inspector Rebus #25
Midnight and Blue
John Rebus spent his life as a detective putting Edinburgh's most deadly criminals behind bars.Now, he's going to join them...
In this tense, gripping game of cat and mouse, 'The King of Crime' (Express) returns to his much-loved creation, the inimitable John Rebus, as he faces a case unlike any other...
In this tense, gripping game of cat and mouse, 'The King of Crime' (Express) returns to his much-loved creation, the inimitable John Rebus, as he faces a case unlike any other...
352 pages, Hardcover
First published October 15, 2024
1736 people are currently reading
4950 people want to read
About the author
Ian Rankin
423 books6,528 followersAKA Jack Harvey.
Born in the Kingdom of Fife in 1960, Ian Rankin graduated from the University of Edinburgh in 1982 and then spent three years writing novels when he was supposed to be working towards a PhD in Scottish Literature. His first Rebus novel was published in 1987; the Rebus books are now translated into 22 languages and are bestsellers on several continents.
Ian Rankin has been elected a Hawthornden Fellow. He is also a past winner of the Chandler-Fulbright Award, and he received two Dagger Awards for the year's best short story and the Gold Dagger for Fiction. Ian Rankin is also the recipient of honorary degrees from the universities of Abertay, St Andrews, and Edinburgh.
A contributor to BBC2's Newsnight Review, he also presented his own TV series, Ian Rankin's Evil Thoughts, on Channel 4 in 2002. He recently received the OBE for services to literature, and opted to receive the prize in his home city of Edinburgh, where he lives with his partner and two sons.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/ianrankin
Born in the Kingdom of Fife in 1960, Ian Rankin graduated from the University of Edinburgh in 1982 and then spent three years writing novels when he was supposed to be working towards a PhD in Scottish Literature. His first Rebus novel was published in 1987; the Rebus books are now translated into 22 languages and are bestsellers on several continents.
Ian Rankin has been elected a Hawthornden Fellow. He is also a past winner of the Chandler-Fulbright Award, and he received two Dagger Awards for the year's best short story and the Gold Dagger for Fiction. Ian Rankin is also the recipient of honorary degrees from the universities of Abertay, St Andrews, and Edinburgh.
A contributor to BBC2's Newsnight Review, he also presented his own TV series, Ian Rankin's Evil Thoughts, on Channel 4 in 2002. He recently received the OBE for services to literature, and opted to receive the prize in his home city of Edinburgh, where he lives with his partner and two sons.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/ianrankin
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 738 reviews
October 14, 2024
Rebus #25 (yes, read them all!)
Ex DCI John Rebus is in HMP Saughton, Edinburgh serving his sentence alongside lifer and gang leader, Daryl Christie. When one of their fellow inmates is murdered it’s as inevitable as night following day that Rebus will get involved. DS Christine Esson and her new partner DI Jason Mulgrew investigate but especially puzzling is why DI Malcolm Fox, formerly Professional Standards and now Organised Crime, visits the scene. Meanwhile, DI Siobhan Clarke, working alongside DS Cameron Colson are investigating the case of missing 14 year Jasmine Andrews who leaves school and fails to arrive home.
It’s so great to be back with my all time favourite detective who is in shall we settle for reduced but distinctly dangerous circumstances. The tension is palpable, in fact it feels like sitting on a live volcano just waiting for the eruption. All the storylines are good, they are current issues - especially the direction that organised crime usually takes. It’s written with clarity and it’s easy to follow the narrative and inevitably we’re in for some surprises.
I love these characters as they feel like old friends now - here we are introduced to a couple of new ones such as Cammy Colson who is as gloomy as a dreich day overhanging Auld Reekie. Although I’m sure Siobhan must find him gloomy and irritating as he’s not exactly speedy, he does have a personality that matches the dark direction of the plot. IR creates a great atmosphere to accompany his latest novel.
This is a good twisty mystery that keeps me interested and entertained throughout. I’ve no idea how Rankin makes every novel feel as fresh as the last - oodles of creative talent obviously - but long may it continue. Roll on #26!!
Ex DCI John Rebus is in HMP Saughton, Edinburgh serving his sentence alongside lifer and gang leader, Daryl Christie. When one of their fellow inmates is murdered it’s as inevitable as night following day that Rebus will get involved. DS Christine Esson and her new partner DI Jason Mulgrew investigate but especially puzzling is why DI Malcolm Fox, formerly Professional Standards and now Organised Crime, visits the scene. Meanwhile, DI Siobhan Clarke, working alongside DS Cameron Colson are investigating the case of missing 14 year Jasmine Andrews who leaves school and fails to arrive home.
It’s so great to be back with my all time favourite detective who is in shall we settle for reduced but distinctly dangerous circumstances. The tension is palpable, in fact it feels like sitting on a live volcano just waiting for the eruption. All the storylines are good, they are current issues - especially the direction that organised crime usually takes. It’s written with clarity and it’s easy to follow the narrative and inevitably we’re in for some surprises.
I love these characters as they feel like old friends now - here we are introduced to a couple of new ones such as Cammy Colson who is as gloomy as a dreich day overhanging Auld Reekie. Although I’m sure Siobhan must find him gloomy and irritating as he’s not exactly speedy, he does have a personality that matches the dark direction of the plot. IR creates a great atmosphere to accompany his latest novel.
This is a good twisty mystery that keeps me interested and entertained throughout. I’ve no idea how Rankin makes every novel feel as fresh as the last - oodles of creative talent obviously - but long may it continue. Roll on #26!!
January 13, 2025
What happens to a cop when he is sent to prison and finds himself mixing with criminals he has sent there himself. Nothing good! We find Rebus in exactly this position, trying to keep a middle road and out of trouble with the other inmates.
When a fellow prisoner is murdered the tension builds and Rebus attempts to solve the crime with only occasional contact with Siobhan on the outside. Things get worse when the unpleasant Malcolm Fox joins the mix. If you are like me you will spend most of the book praying that he gets what he deserves!
After 25 books the characters are like old friends (except Malcom Fox) and Rebus is just the best. The book finishes on a high note but no real promise that there will be another one. Fingers crossed.
When a fellow prisoner is murdered the tension builds and Rebus attempts to solve the crime with only occasional contact with Siobhan on the outside. Things get worse when the unpleasant Malcolm Fox joins the mix. If you are like me you will spend most of the book praying that he gets what he deserves!
After 25 books the characters are like old friends (except Malcom Fox) and Rebus is just the best. The book finishes on a high note but no real promise that there will be another one. Fingers crossed.
October 26, 2024
MIDNIGHT AND BLUE is definitely a winner for long-term Rebus fans. I started reading it as soon as I downloaded it and didn’t stop until the end. 5+
Short Summary
For six months, Rebus has been locked up in HMP Edinburgh as a consequence of his role in the death of Big Ger Cafferty. Because Rebus was ex-police, initially he was kept in the isolated ‘Separation and Reintegration Unit’. Then, he was transferred to the general population in Trinity Hall because Darryl Christie, the prisoner who ‘ran’ that hall, said he’d protect him: ’He’d wanted to thank Rebus for getting rid of Morris Gerald Cafferty.’
Rebus had agreed to the transfer because: ’If he’d wanted a quiet life he’d have refused the move to the general prison population, but the quiet life wasn’t really his thing, never had been.’
So for the past three months, Rebus has been mingling with the general prison population, getting to know them, and Christie has kept his word to provide him with protection. Then, one of the prisoners, Jackie Simpson, a minor thief, is murdered in his cell. The rumour is that one of the guards either did it, or had unlocked cell doors so another prisoner could carry out the actual killing. The police investigation is going nowhere, so the warden asks Rebus to look into it from the inside.
Siobhan Clarke has been visiting Rebus regularly, but now she has her own case to solve. A 14-year-old schoolgirl has disappeared. During her search for the missing girl, Siobhan encounters another murder, one that appeared to occur about the time the girl went missing. Did the girl run because she killed him? Has she been kidnapped by the killer?
Plus Malcolm Fox, from the Organized Crime Unit, is puttering around the periphery. He has an interest in the Jackie Simpson murder because Simpson was one of his snitches, although he doesn’t share this with the police investigating team. He also is looking into attacks on Christie’s outside team members, and comes across information relevant to Siobhan’s investigation into the missing girl that he doesn’t share with her.
My Perspective
1) I especially liked the scenes in the prison—the hierarchy that naturally formed among prisoners; the illegal drugs that always seemed readily available—‘benzos’ that kept the prisoners high and relatively docile; the relationship between the prisoners and guards:
’The place was short-staffed—all prisons were—and it was near-capacity. Other jails were even more crowded, but life here was made easier for all concerned if someone like Christie exerted a level of control.’
2) Siobhan has returned to her old station—St. Leonard’s—where she first started working with John Rebus many years ago, but now she is feeling her age. ’It often struck her that she was nearer to retirement than to the day she’d joined the force. Much nearer, truth be told.’
My first Ian Rankin book was “Mortal Causes”; I still remember picking the paperback up at the Newfoundland Costco, reading the summary, and as it didn’t cost much, deciding to buy it. In “Mortal Causes”, a young Siobhan acted as a soundboard for Rebus’s musings. Now Rebus is acting as a soundboard for Siobhan’s musings.
3) There are a lot of things going on at the same time, and the story gets complicated, but the killers, when finally identified, are a surprise. Even I, who can generally narrow down the culprits in a mystery novel, was surprised when the offenders (who conducted two unrelated murders) were exposed. So kudos to Ian Rankin for providing mystery readers with two unexpected solutions.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for two previous books in the series:
A Song For Dark Times (Rebus #23)
A Heart Full of Headstones (Rebus #24)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanks to Mulholland Books for providing an electronic copy of this book via Netgalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
Short Summary
For six months, Rebus has been locked up in HMP Edinburgh as a consequence of his role in the death of Big Ger Cafferty. Because Rebus was ex-police, initially he was kept in the isolated ‘Separation and Reintegration Unit’. Then, he was transferred to the general population in Trinity Hall because Darryl Christie, the prisoner who ‘ran’ that hall, said he’d protect him: ’He’d wanted to thank Rebus for getting rid of Morris Gerald Cafferty.’
Rebus had agreed to the transfer because: ’If he’d wanted a quiet life he’d have refused the move to the general prison population, but the quiet life wasn’t really his thing, never had been.’
So for the past three months, Rebus has been mingling with the general prison population, getting to know them, and Christie has kept his word to provide him with protection. Then, one of the prisoners, Jackie Simpson, a minor thief, is murdered in his cell. The rumour is that one of the guards either did it, or had unlocked cell doors so another prisoner could carry out the actual killing. The police investigation is going nowhere, so the warden asks Rebus to look into it from the inside.
Siobhan Clarke has been visiting Rebus regularly, but now she has her own case to solve. A 14-year-old schoolgirl has disappeared. During her search for the missing girl, Siobhan encounters another murder, one that appeared to occur about the time the girl went missing. Did the girl run because she killed him? Has she been kidnapped by the killer?
Plus Malcolm Fox, from the Organized Crime Unit, is puttering around the periphery. He has an interest in the Jackie Simpson murder because Simpson was one of his snitches, although he doesn’t share this with the police investigating team. He also is looking into attacks on Christie’s outside team members, and comes across information relevant to Siobhan’s investigation into the missing girl that he doesn’t share with her.
My Perspective
1) I especially liked the scenes in the prison—the hierarchy that naturally formed among prisoners; the illegal drugs that always seemed readily available—‘benzos’ that kept the prisoners high and relatively docile; the relationship between the prisoners and guards:
’The place was short-staffed—all prisons were—and it was near-capacity. Other jails were even more crowded, but life here was made easier for all concerned if someone like Christie exerted a level of control.’
2) Siobhan has returned to her old station—St. Leonard’s—where she first started working with John Rebus many years ago, but now she is feeling her age. ’It often struck her that she was nearer to retirement than to the day she’d joined the force. Much nearer, truth be told.’
My first Ian Rankin book was “Mortal Causes”; I still remember picking the paperback up at the Newfoundland Costco, reading the summary, and as it didn’t cost much, deciding to buy it. In “Mortal Causes”, a young Siobhan acted as a soundboard for Rebus’s musings. Now Rebus is acting as a soundboard for Siobhan’s musings.
3) There are a lot of things going on at the same time, and the story gets complicated, but the killers, when finally identified, are a surprise. Even I, who can generally narrow down the culprits in a mystery novel, was surprised when the offenders (who conducted two unrelated murders) were exposed. So kudos to Ian Rankin for providing mystery readers with two unexpected solutions.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for two previous books in the series:
A Song For Dark Times (Rebus #23)
A Heart Full of Headstones (Rebus #24)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanks to Mulholland Books for providing an electronic copy of this book via Netgalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
August 14, 2024
John Rebus is in prison in Edinburgh for murder. His solicitor is supposedly working to have him freed, but meanwhile someone in the next cell is killed. Several people on both the inside and outside want John to see what he can find out, but it’s a dangerous game, with two powerful criminals competing for control. Siobhan who is working a case with a missing 14 year old girl who seemed to be flush with cash when she disappeared, learns that dirty cops, underage online pornography, and career criminals are all involved. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
October 13, 2024
One of my husband’s favourite authors and series so here is his review….
Midnight and Blue by Sir Ian Rankin is the 25th book in the DI John Rebus story.
The retired DI has found himself in prison in Edinburgh over the death of longtime gangster Big Ger Cafferty. Inside, he faces old enemies and new allies, but when a murder is committed in a locked cell at midnight, Rebus’ s old habits kick in, how could they not. The guards and prisoners are all suspects, but with no badge or authority, Rebus has to walk a fine line. On the outside, the Edinburgh police continue with the usual day to day missing kids, murders. Is there a link or a wild goose chase?
Is is a good twisty murder mystery, as good as any of the Rebus tales. This can easily be read as a stand-alone but seriously you are going to want to read them all, rebus is that police detective that you can’t help but love, despite not always toeing the line.
A massive thanks to Hachette Australia for the stunning hardback ARC, how gorgeous is it!! Published October 8th in Australia.
Midnight and Blue by Sir Ian Rankin is the 25th book in the DI John Rebus story.
The retired DI has found himself in prison in Edinburgh over the death of longtime gangster Big Ger Cafferty. Inside, he faces old enemies and new allies, but when a murder is committed in a locked cell at midnight, Rebus’ s old habits kick in, how could they not. The guards and prisoners are all suspects, but with no badge or authority, Rebus has to walk a fine line. On the outside, the Edinburgh police continue with the usual day to day missing kids, murders. Is there a link or a wild goose chase?
Is is a good twisty murder mystery, as good as any of the Rebus tales. This can easily be read as a stand-alone but seriously you are going to want to read them all, rebus is that police detective that you can’t help but love, despite not always toeing the line.
A massive thanks to Hachette Australia for the stunning hardback ARC, how gorgeous is it!! Published October 8th in Australia.
March 1, 2025
The opening pages have John Rebus standing in a queue for food. Not in a cafe or at a party or a free for all buffet, but care of HMP Edinburgh. Holding a plastic tray, shuffling along in pecking order along with all the other guests of His Majesty’s Prison.
After spending all his adult life putting crims behind bars, Rebus finds himself sharing the air with them. A slow moving legal team means he awaits his fate regarding his conviction of the demise of his nemesis Big Ger Cafferty. One that he claims not to have done, although he was there. As luck would have it, a murder occurs in one of the cells nearby, and Rebus can’t help but put his ear to the ground and use his detective skills to work out what happened. Was it another inmate or one of the guards? And why?
As is Ian Rankin’s speciality, one story morphs into three or four which keep you glued to the pages. A teenage girl goes missing. A rival gang from Liverpool is making moves to take over Daryl Christie’s Edinburgh turf as he languishes alongside Rebus on the inside. A soft porn site has its founder murdered in his kitchen. Rebus’ ex-colleagues certainly have their hands full, and he uses his wits and lack of access to them to filter through information.
With lots of time on his hands, Rebus has little but his thoughts for company.
”Some nights he’d open his eyes in the darkness, heart pounding, wondering if he might be about to breathe his last. No final words. No bedside gathering.”
I have to admit to having found the amount of characters in the prison a bit hard to keep track of. Lots of names to remember. Maybe I’m getting on a bit. Just like Rebus.
I found the underhandedness and rivalry of the police in different units quite sad. For the fact that it highlighted how in many respects some coppers are just as devious as the crims they’re trying to put away. Just a different chapter of the same book. The writing also made me feel the jadedness of some of the long term characters such as Siobhan Clarke, Malcolm Fox, Christine Esson. Walking the treadmill of a long term career and wondering what the point of it all is.
There’s a lot going on in this book, and I don’t know how easy it would be to read as a standalone, as there is so much history occuring in the background.
Book number 25. Hovering between 3.75 and 4 stars ✩ There are many moments where Rebus’ brilliance and sheer wit shine. Siobhan Clarke becomes more like him than she cares to admit even to herself, with less years between her and retirement than another promotion. And Malcolm Fox continues to pick the wrong side to try to cosy up to at work. They’re starting to sound as tired as I feel at times. Where you don’t quite recognise the world around you anymore.
I’m hoping there will be another book in the works, as this feels an odd way to bid adieu to John Rebus if that ends up being the case.
After spending all his adult life putting crims behind bars, Rebus finds himself sharing the air with them. A slow moving legal team means he awaits his fate regarding his conviction of the demise of his nemesis Big Ger Cafferty. One that he claims not to have done, although he was there. As luck would have it, a murder occurs in one of the cells nearby, and Rebus can’t help but put his ear to the ground and use his detective skills to work out what happened. Was it another inmate or one of the guards? And why?
As is Ian Rankin’s speciality, one story morphs into three or four which keep you glued to the pages. A teenage girl goes missing. A rival gang from Liverpool is making moves to take over Daryl Christie’s Edinburgh turf as he languishes alongside Rebus on the inside. A soft porn site has its founder murdered in his kitchen. Rebus’ ex-colleagues certainly have their hands full, and he uses his wits and lack of access to them to filter through information.
With lots of time on his hands, Rebus has little but his thoughts for company.
”Some nights he’d open his eyes in the darkness, heart pounding, wondering if he might be about to breathe his last. No final words. No bedside gathering.”
I have to admit to having found the amount of characters in the prison a bit hard to keep track of. Lots of names to remember. Maybe I’m getting on a bit. Just like Rebus.
I found the underhandedness and rivalry of the police in different units quite sad. For the fact that it highlighted how in many respects some coppers are just as devious as the crims they’re trying to put away. Just a different chapter of the same book. The writing also made me feel the jadedness of some of the long term characters such as Siobhan Clarke, Malcolm Fox, Christine Esson. Walking the treadmill of a long term career and wondering what the point of it all is.
There’s a lot going on in this book, and I don’t know how easy it would be to read as a standalone, as there is so much history occuring in the background.
Book number 25. Hovering between 3.75 and 4 stars ✩ There are many moments where Rebus’ brilliance and sheer wit shine. Siobhan Clarke becomes more like him than she cares to admit even to herself, with less years between her and retirement than another promotion. And Malcolm Fox continues to pick the wrong side to try to cosy up to at work. They’re starting to sound as tired as I feel at times. Where you don’t quite recognise the world around you anymore.
I’m hoping there will be another book in the works, as this feels an odd way to bid adieu to John Rebus if that ends up being the case.
July 26, 2025
This excellent crime novel is the 25th volume of the "(DI) John Rebus" series.
Storytelling is superb, police procedure perfectly executed, while all characters come splendidly to life in this tale about gang warfare, in- and outside of prison, and about the investigation of a couple of murders that need to be solved by various (ex)detectives.
The book starts off with a break-in that will go wrong for the perpetrator, but also for the user of this shop a man called, Everett Harrison, while for the police, and in particular DI Fox, it will be a hit.
Ex DI John Rebus, now a convicted prisoner at HMP Edinburgh, serving time for the supposed killing of gangster, Big Ger Cafferty, and with Rebus sharing this accommodation are his dangerous henchman and direct neighbour, Everett Harrison, while the notorious Edinburgh gangster, Darryl Christie, is also quite close at hand.
All of a sudden a murder is committed inside the prison, a case foe DS Cristine Esson and DI Jason Mulgrew, while DI Fox from Gartcosh is also not far off this case, while DI Siobhan Clarke and her team need to investigate the disappearance of a young girl called, Jasmine Andrews, and the murder of Zak Campbell.
During these investigations some parts will become entwined, while the various murders will be solved by different persons, and corruption will be dealt with, and always with John Rebus at the heart of everything.
Very much recommended, for this is a brilliant addition to this magnificent series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Tremendous Rebus Outing"!
Storytelling is superb, police procedure perfectly executed, while all characters come splendidly to life in this tale about gang warfare, in- and outside of prison, and about the investigation of a couple of murders that need to be solved by various (ex)detectives.
The book starts off with a break-in that will go wrong for the perpetrator, but also for the user of this shop a man called, Everett Harrison, while for the police, and in particular DI Fox, it will be a hit.
Ex DI John Rebus, now a convicted prisoner at HMP Edinburgh, serving time for the supposed killing of gangster, Big Ger Cafferty, and with Rebus sharing this accommodation are his dangerous henchman and direct neighbour, Everett Harrison, while the notorious Edinburgh gangster, Darryl Christie, is also quite close at hand.
All of a sudden a murder is committed inside the prison, a case foe DS Cristine Esson and DI Jason Mulgrew, while DI Fox from Gartcosh is also not far off this case, while DI Siobhan Clarke and her team need to investigate the disappearance of a young girl called, Jasmine Andrews, and the murder of Zak Campbell.
During these investigations some parts will become entwined, while the various murders will be solved by different persons, and corruption will be dealt with, and always with John Rebus at the heart of everything.
Very much recommended, for this is a brilliant addition to this magnificent series, and that's why I like to call this episode: "A Tremendous Rebus Outing"!
October 22, 2024
Wow! I had deep concerns regarding this book. The thought of a favorite character being sent to prison, and having to operate within those confines, deeply concerned me. After twenty five books, one develops an affinity, a friendship with such an enduring character. So I had deep concerns. I should not have worried. Rankin was more than up to the task, and this Rebus was one of the best he has ever done. With murders both inside and outside the prison to keep all my favorite characters, not just Rebus busy. Ian Rankin is a master at his craft, a pleasure to read and worthy of preordering whatever he writes.
August 5, 2025
There's a wee bit of a gap between Lee Child's writing and that of Ian Rankin.
Both authors arguably publish best selling vehicles for their respective "heroes."
Both heroes solve crimes while facing personal danger.
For both, the clock is ticking.....tensions mount.
Each of these authors is apparently aware there are women in the world.
For Child's forever youthful and indestructible all-American Jack Reacher, the women
are usually small town damsels in need of rescuing from an evil mastermind. Reacher
will kill or maim some bad guys by story's end. The damsel is the "reward" whose offer
of true love, permanent home and stability must sadly be waved off. Reacher is a loner.
Sex ? Well, O.K., if you insist, you youthful and rugged side of beef.
But I get to drop you off at the Greyhound terminal afterward , O.K.?
Don't forget your toothbrush, Reacher.
Rankin's aging, disgraced detective is from Edinburgh, Scotland. John Rebus is
approaching the age of 70 and currently serving a life sentence for attempted
murder. A cop who admittedly lost control during an arrest (in an earlier novel.)
He's a logical thinker, not a fighter. His string of short term romances in the day
produced one failed marriage. One now grown up child. Rebus chooses to live
alone.He was a mentor albeit a flawed and opinionated one. seldom "by the book."
Don't forget your nebulizer, John.
But two adept, intelligent, well drawn female detectives ( D.C. Christine Esson
and D.I. Siobhan Clarke) are given equal time solving crimes while fighting arrogant,
corrupt male mysogynists who are vying for power. Strong no nonsense female
characters also hold positions of authority in the varying police agencies.
Sex ? Yeah, in your dreams, buddy.
In MIDNIGHT AND BLUE the bad guys are outted, just not always punished because of
loopholes in due process or lack of physical evidence. You know, like in the real world.
"The Rankin Factor" should be apparent. 'Off screen' murders and a suicide, but
no gun-play or martial arts; no car chases. The storyline is all character- driven
like a John LeCarre or many an Elmore Leonard thriller.
The female leads including those in management roles provide believable, well
executed characters pivotal to those stories. They work as equals to their male
counterparts. The plots are complex. Yes the characters, whether physically present
or referenced, can sometimes be overwhelming in number. Just pay attention.
The bottom line is a story about realistic, dimensional people, whose lives are shared
with the reader . Leaving the readers feeling like they've experienced something
meaningful, alongside the characters.
Not wondering when the next bus is leaving for wherever.
Both authors arguably publish best selling vehicles for their respective "heroes."
Both heroes solve crimes while facing personal danger.
For both, the clock is ticking.....tensions mount.
Each of these authors is apparently aware there are women in the world.
For Child's forever youthful and indestructible all-American Jack Reacher, the women
are usually small town damsels in need of rescuing from an evil mastermind. Reacher
will kill or maim some bad guys by story's end. The damsel is the "reward" whose offer
of true love, permanent home and stability must sadly be waved off. Reacher is a loner.
Sex ? Well, O.K., if you insist, you youthful and rugged side of beef.
But I get to drop you off at the Greyhound terminal afterward , O.K.?
Don't forget your toothbrush, Reacher.
Rankin's aging, disgraced detective is from Edinburgh, Scotland. John Rebus is
approaching the age of 70 and currently serving a life sentence for attempted
murder. A cop who admittedly lost control during an arrest (in an earlier novel.)
He's a logical thinker, not a fighter. His string of short term romances in the day
produced one failed marriage. One now grown up child. Rebus chooses to live
alone.He was a mentor albeit a flawed and opinionated one. seldom "by the book."
Don't forget your nebulizer, John.
But two adept, intelligent, well drawn female detectives ( D.C. Christine Esson
and D.I. Siobhan Clarke) are given equal time solving crimes while fighting arrogant,
corrupt male mysogynists who are vying for power. Strong no nonsense female
characters also hold positions of authority in the varying police agencies.
Sex ? Yeah, in your dreams, buddy.
In MIDNIGHT AND BLUE the bad guys are outted, just not always punished because of
loopholes in due process or lack of physical evidence. You know, like in the real world.
"The Rankin Factor" should be apparent. 'Off screen' murders and a suicide, but
no gun-play or martial arts; no car chases. The storyline is all character- driven
like a John LeCarre or many an Elmore Leonard thriller.
The female leads including those in management roles provide believable, well
executed characters pivotal to those stories. They work as equals to their male
counterparts. The plots are complex. Yes the characters, whether physically present
or referenced, can sometimes be overwhelming in number. Just pay attention.
The bottom line is a story about realistic, dimensional people, whose lives are shared
with the reader . Leaving the readers feeling like they've experienced something
meaningful, alongside the characters.
Not wondering when the next bus is leaving for wherever.
April 2, 2025
Took awhile to get into this book but interesting plot with its many twists and turns
December 16, 2024
When we last saw Rebus, he was on trial for murder. Divine intervention didn't step in to rescue our crusty hero and he is now a resident of the Scottish prison system. If you think that will douse his feisty spirit, you don't know Rebus. He's still in the game and an inside voice in a troubling murder investigation.
Ian Rankin is in a class all his own in crime fiction. It is incredible that in such a long running series, there has been no diminishment of quality. If you're a reader that loves crime fiction and you haven't met Rebus, you're missing out. Start at Book #1 because you're going to want to be there for the whole ride.
Ian Rankin is in a class all his own in crime fiction. It is incredible that in such a long running series, there has been no diminishment of quality. If you're a reader that loves crime fiction and you haven't met Rebus, you're missing out. Start at Book #1 because you're going to want to be there for the whole ride.
March 16, 2025
Another John Rebus novel, but not much of an improvement on the previous one.
The first part of the book is qute well written & there are some good put twists near the end. However, it felt like Ian Rankin was just going through the motions of writing a Rebus novel. I think it's time he laid Rebus to rest, but if he stilll needs the money then I'm sure a series of novels feauring Siobhan Clarke would prove successful.
If the next Rebus novel is the final one then I will definitely read it, but if it's just another in the series I'll give it a miss.
The first part of the book is qute well written & there are some good put twists near the end. However, it felt like Ian Rankin was just going through the motions of writing a Rebus novel. I think it's time he laid Rebus to rest, but if he stilll needs the money then I'm sure a series of novels feauring Siobhan Clarke would prove successful.
If the next Rebus novel is the final one then I will definitely read it, but if it's just another in the series I'll give it a miss.
October 19, 2024
3.75 stars. Rebus is in prison, but murder still finds him. Also, what happened to Malcolm Fox? He seems to have changed a bit. Enjoyed this 25th book of the series, though.
December 29, 2024
A master class in crime fiction. Perfectly and intricately plotted, pitch perfect in every sense. More Rebus,please.
Rankin and Connelly (Bosch) are so,so far above the rest.
Rankin and Connelly (Bosch) are so,so far above the rest.
October 26, 2024
Much as I love Ian Rankin, I can't help but think his recent books are lacking what made the early ones great. Try reading this back to back with something like Black and Blue and I think you will see what I mean. The whole thing seemed rather pedestrian and I struggled to keep my attention on the text. Ian is a lovely guy I have seen him a couple of times and he is an entertaining speaker. I just wish his latter day books would enthral me like the older ones did.
October 19, 2024
Rebus novels never disappoint me. Ever.
I loved this one. As another reviewer described it, it is very much a locked room mystery. I picked a few clues up along the way but did not see the culprits coming.
But these books are so so so much more than police procedurals. So many of the characters operate on the edge - of what is acceptable, legal, appropriate. Our sympathies are well-managed by Rankin who manages to create difficult, non-team-player, tightrope walking old school ex detective - now in prison it should be said - such an appealing hero. Always brilliantly read by James Macpherson.
A fantastic insight into police life.
Come back soon Rebus.
I loved this one. As another reviewer described it, it is very much a locked room mystery. I picked a few clues up along the way but did not see the culprits coming.
But these books are so so so much more than police procedurals. So many of the characters operate on the edge - of what is acceptable, legal, appropriate. Our sympathies are well-managed by Rankin who manages to create difficult, non-team-player, tightrope walking old school ex detective - now in prison it should be said - such an appealing hero. Always brilliantly read by James Macpherson.
A fantastic insight into police life.
Come back soon Rebus.
December 17, 2024
Midnight and Blue (Inspector Rebus #25) by Ian Rankin.
This story finds Rebus in prison in Edinburgh for the murder of Big Ger Gafferty. The prison is the main environment for this book. I love Rebus and have read all in this series. The main characters are here both inside and outside jail.
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. The Afterwards tells me there will be another book coming. My appreciations for that!
This story finds Rebus in prison in Edinburgh for the murder of Big Ger Gafferty. The prison is the main environment for this book. I love Rebus and have read all in this series. The main characters are here both inside and outside jail.
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. The Afterwards tells me there will be another book coming. My appreciations for that!
October 28, 2024
The Rebus books aren't what they used to be. It's disappointing as he was my favourite detective. I also don't understand why Malcolm Fox's character has been mangled so badly. If it is to show that he isn't so different from young John Rebus, then it isn't working. Young John Rebus was likeable.
October 18, 2024
Rebus in prison, that certainly was something else!
March 2, 2025
Finished Midnight & Blue (Inspector Rebus #25) by Ian Rankin, the latest in the long running Edinburg police procedural series. The series packs a lot more than taut and intriguing story lines, it contains many Scottish cultural aspects, plus great humor and characters a plenty. Rankin provides his readers a revealing take on the mix of the good and bad of Edinburg society -where the bad elements often show good, and the good elements often bad, if not plain rotten. The Edinburg environment, characters, his stories come across as a realistic. Rankin’s dialogue is real, earthy, and spiced with wit and humor. His lead character John Rebus, now retired Inspector, is amongst the genres top cops, ie. Harry Bosch, Inspector Montelbano, Commissario Brunetti, and the famous Maigret series… least not forgetting Edinburg’s original Sherlock Holmes of Scotland Yard.
When Book 25 appeared at Bezos bargain ebook sale price, I snapped it up. Forgetting I had in my kindle library books 15 through 24 unread, I decided to read my most recent acquisition. To my surprise John Rebus, who I knew was retired, was in prison- a life sentence for the murder of his longtime nemesis and king pen hood, Gerald Cafferty. What unfolds is an interesting who done it, of an inmate murder, as well as an investigation into the disappearance of a 14 year old school girl by Rebus’ old running mate Detective Sargent Siobhan Clarke.
Rankin does a superior job of in depicting the daily grind and insanity of prison life… the dialog of inmates and their jailers crackles with authenticity, illhumor, cynicism and grit. As shown in the highlights posted below…
“The Wizard was two places ahead of Rebus… He probably wasn’t any older, but he looked it, and he’d been in prison longer than just about anyone else on the hall. His real name was Gareth Wallace, the nickname stemming from his long grey locks and longer beard. — There was a blur of movement as one of the white-shirted officers hit the alarm. — the order – back to cells – followed by complaints and questions. Ratty was a good eight inches shorter than Rebus, he had the knack of seeing and knowing everything. ‘It’s Jackie,’ he told Rebus. Sure enough, two officers – Novak and Watts – filled Jackie Simpson’s doorway. Rebus and several others had to pass this cell to get to their own.”
Cell. “John Rebus had a cell all to himself. It consisted of a narrow bed, toilet and sink. There was a small desk and some storage space, plus a shelf for personal effects. He had piled here all the books he had promised himself he would read. This was his home now, and had been for the past six months. - Because he was ex-police, it was then decided that he should transfer not to one of the general halls but to the Separation and Reintegration Unit. —prisoners who were either in danger or were a danger to themselves. —Testosterone and wariness filled what air there was. Drug use was hard to miss. He had always known the place simply as Saughton, though the branding on the officers’ shirts these days declared it HMP Edinburgh.” The Governor Tennant. ‘How would you feel about joining the general population in Trinity?’ -we could do with your bed.’ ‘And?’ ‘Darryl Christie is ready to vouch for you, meaning you’ll be protected. He seems to think you did him some sort of favour a while back.’ ‘He’s guaranteeing your safety, John, and we have a single cell that’s just been vacated. You’ve been off the force a good few years – I doubt you’ll come across too many guys you put in here. — ‘So what do you say?’ ‘I say that if someone does me in, I want you grieving at the graveside.’ — Tennent had been right about one thing: Rebus hadn’t become aware of any real grudges against him. — life here was made easier for all concerned if someone like Christie exerted a level of control. Christie had come calling. He’d gained some weight and wore his hair long, swept back from his forehead. He’d wanted to thank Rebus for getting rid of Morris Gerald Cafferty. — Rebus had been convicted of attempted murder rather than murder proper. Even so, the judge had handed down a life sentence. — Cafferty had died, leaving a vacuum of sorts. — ‘One thing you can do for me, lifer to lifer,’ Christie had said that day in the cell -Help me picture the scene.’ ‘Was he scared? Did he show it? Did he beg?’ It was a long time coming. Too long for many…’ — Rebus had eventually replied. ‘He had a code of sorts, things that were beyond the pale. Not every toerag can say the same.’ — Christie’s protection was a mixed blessing; it didn’t do to rile the guy unnecessarily. So he kept himself to himself, worked all the hours he could in the small but well-stocked library, and got to know a few of his companions, finding out who could be trusted to any extent and who should be avoided. — The life sentence felt like Cafferty having one last laugh ...”
Siobhan Clarke investigates missing girl, leading on to a child porn site. She consults a fulltime specialist. —“ ‘They’re usually a lot younger – sorry to be so blunt.’ ‘I don’t know how you can do it.’ ‘The usual answer is: someone has to.’ ‘ But the first answer I gave you,’ she said, ‘that gets to the nub of it really” — As Clarke was descending the staircase, she glanced back and saw Louise Hird making her way to her locked office and its drawers filled with nightmares. Silently she wished the young woman well.”
Sounds. “muffled: coughs; someone still whistling ‘Valerie’; a dull bass thump from one cell, which the POs would soon put a stop to. He could hear the gate to the hall being unlocked and then locked again – an officer coming or going. One of the things that drove Rebus near-demented was the constant unlocking and locking. A door or gate needed to be unlocked, yet beyond it was only a corridor with nothing at the end but another locked door or gate. So why did the first need to be locked?”
Mentor Rebus. ‘You’re not buying it?’ ‘Never fall for the hype, Siobhan. Didn’t I teach you that lesson?’ ‘Most of what you taught me I had to unlearn so they didn’t kick me off the force.’ ‘Fair point.’
Rebus Method. ‘You might think I’m being slow, but it’s the way I work.’ Rebus spun a finger around in the air. ‘In circles, slowly inwards.’ ‘So there is news?’ ‘There might well be – once I’ve talked to Darryl.’ The governor gave a sigh. ‘You’re a pain in the hole, John – did anyone ever tell you that?’ ‘It gets a chapter in my autobiography.’
Child porn perp killed. “The twenty-three teenagers on his books were now real names and faces. Most of them had turned eighteen, but four could be classified as children. — Each step in the investigation had to be meticulous and defence-lawyer-proof. The Procurator Fiscal’s office was in close touch with DCI Carmichael, and he in turn was checking regularly that things were being done in accordance with procedures and protocols. users they’d identified so far – there were almost a thousand regulars, with thousands more one-time payers – were men ranging from their twenties to their seventies, from all corners of the UK and beyond, stretching as far as Australia and Bermuda. So far only one woman, based in Hong Kong but Scots-born.”
The tune travels. “someone was singing behind their cell door. It sounded like ‘Hurt’. Rebus knew Johnny Cash didn’t write it, but it was Cash’s version he liked. He recited the words silently until a mix of pleading and angry voices stilled the singer. Folsom Prison to San Quentin to Saughton. Quite the journey.”
Clarke reviews her case. “one name we’re having trouble identifying – Valerio.’ ‘Like the song?’ She spelled it for him. Rebus nodded. ‘“The Great Valerio” – I think he’s a tightrope-walker. It’s Richard and Linda Thompson. Are you telling me you don’t know the Bright Lights album?’ ‘I could sing it to you if you like?’ ‘What a pity visiting time is up,’ she said with a smile.” Later. “she had her earbuds in and was staring at what looked like a poem on her computer. Realising she had company, Clarke yanked one of the buds out. — a song by Richard and Linda Thompson,’ she started to explain. ‘Valerio is a high-wire act in a circus.’ —reading the lyrics. ‘So he has a safety net, but it’s not really needed because he’s so good, and everyone down below is craning their necks in awe of him.’ Recollection. “he had reached around her at her desk and with a few keystrokes got her computer working. He’d done the same for Zara Shah, too, impressing her with his command of IT jargon. Valerio: the high-wire act… Valerio: so different from the crowd far below… when she’d mentioned the name Valerio to him, he’d blanked it. A name he should have recognised.” Tell tale clue. ‘ it’s from a Sherlock Holmes story, I think. Did you know Conan Doyle was born here in Edinburgh? Got out as soon as he could, mind.’ — ‘The quote’s something to do with ruling out the probable and improbable. Once you’ve done that, even if the solution seems impossible, that’s what it has to be.’
Old Rebus. “somebody needs to do something to take the bastard down.’ ‘Doesn’t have to be a retired cop who’s pushing seventy, though, does it?’ ‘You think I’ve not got it in me?’ Rebus made show of puffing out his chest. Clarke gave a little laugh and shook her head.”
Well no real spoilers, a couple of clues, a few songs… perhaps the taste of prison life will pull you in soon? Or you could go chronological… books 1-24 in order… whichever way, be assured it all good.
When Book 25 appeared at Bezos bargain ebook sale price, I snapped it up. Forgetting I had in my kindle library books 15 through 24 unread, I decided to read my most recent acquisition. To my surprise John Rebus, who I knew was retired, was in prison- a life sentence for the murder of his longtime nemesis and king pen hood, Gerald Cafferty. What unfolds is an interesting who done it, of an inmate murder, as well as an investigation into the disappearance of a 14 year old school girl by Rebus’ old running mate Detective Sargent Siobhan Clarke.
Rankin does a superior job of in depicting the daily grind and insanity of prison life… the dialog of inmates and their jailers crackles with authenticity, illhumor, cynicism and grit. As shown in the highlights posted below…
“The Wizard was two places ahead of Rebus… He probably wasn’t any older, but he looked it, and he’d been in prison longer than just about anyone else on the hall. His real name was Gareth Wallace, the nickname stemming from his long grey locks and longer beard. — There was a blur of movement as one of the white-shirted officers hit the alarm. — the order – back to cells – followed by complaints and questions. Ratty was a good eight inches shorter than Rebus, he had the knack of seeing and knowing everything. ‘It’s Jackie,’ he told Rebus. Sure enough, two officers – Novak and Watts – filled Jackie Simpson’s doorway. Rebus and several others had to pass this cell to get to their own.”
Cell. “John Rebus had a cell all to himself. It consisted of a narrow bed, toilet and sink. There was a small desk and some storage space, plus a shelf for personal effects. He had piled here all the books he had promised himself he would read. This was his home now, and had been for the past six months. - Because he was ex-police, it was then decided that he should transfer not to one of the general halls but to the Separation and Reintegration Unit. —prisoners who were either in danger or were a danger to themselves. —Testosterone and wariness filled what air there was. Drug use was hard to miss. He had always known the place simply as Saughton, though the branding on the officers’ shirts these days declared it HMP Edinburgh.” The Governor Tennant. ‘How would you feel about joining the general population in Trinity?’ -we could do with your bed.’ ‘And?’ ‘Darryl Christie is ready to vouch for you, meaning you’ll be protected. He seems to think you did him some sort of favour a while back.’ ‘He’s guaranteeing your safety, John, and we have a single cell that’s just been vacated. You’ve been off the force a good few years – I doubt you’ll come across too many guys you put in here. — ‘So what do you say?’ ‘I say that if someone does me in, I want you grieving at the graveside.’ — Tennent had been right about one thing: Rebus hadn’t become aware of any real grudges against him. — life here was made easier for all concerned if someone like Christie exerted a level of control. Christie had come calling. He’d gained some weight and wore his hair long, swept back from his forehead. He’d wanted to thank Rebus for getting rid of Morris Gerald Cafferty. — Rebus had been convicted of attempted murder rather than murder proper. Even so, the judge had handed down a life sentence. — Cafferty had died, leaving a vacuum of sorts. — ‘One thing you can do for me, lifer to lifer,’ Christie had said that day in the cell -Help me picture the scene.’ ‘Was he scared? Did he show it? Did he beg?’ It was a long time coming. Too long for many…’ — Rebus had eventually replied. ‘He had a code of sorts, things that were beyond the pale. Not every toerag can say the same.’ — Christie’s protection was a mixed blessing; it didn’t do to rile the guy unnecessarily. So he kept himself to himself, worked all the hours he could in the small but well-stocked library, and got to know a few of his companions, finding out who could be trusted to any extent and who should be avoided. — The life sentence felt like Cafferty having one last laugh ...”
Siobhan Clarke investigates missing girl, leading on to a child porn site. She consults a fulltime specialist. —“ ‘They’re usually a lot younger – sorry to be so blunt.’ ‘I don’t know how you can do it.’ ‘The usual answer is: someone has to.’ ‘ But the first answer I gave you,’ she said, ‘that gets to the nub of it really” — As Clarke was descending the staircase, she glanced back and saw Louise Hird making her way to her locked office and its drawers filled with nightmares. Silently she wished the young woman well.”
Sounds. “muffled: coughs; someone still whistling ‘Valerie’; a dull bass thump from one cell, which the POs would soon put a stop to. He could hear the gate to the hall being unlocked and then locked again – an officer coming or going. One of the things that drove Rebus near-demented was the constant unlocking and locking. A door or gate needed to be unlocked, yet beyond it was only a corridor with nothing at the end but another locked door or gate. So why did the first need to be locked?”
Mentor Rebus. ‘You’re not buying it?’ ‘Never fall for the hype, Siobhan. Didn’t I teach you that lesson?’ ‘Most of what you taught me I had to unlearn so they didn’t kick me off the force.’ ‘Fair point.’
Rebus Method. ‘You might think I’m being slow, but it’s the way I work.’ Rebus spun a finger around in the air. ‘In circles, slowly inwards.’ ‘So there is news?’ ‘There might well be – once I’ve talked to Darryl.’ The governor gave a sigh. ‘You’re a pain in the hole, John – did anyone ever tell you that?’ ‘It gets a chapter in my autobiography.’
Child porn perp killed. “The twenty-three teenagers on his books were now real names and faces. Most of them had turned eighteen, but four could be classified as children. — Each step in the investigation had to be meticulous and defence-lawyer-proof. The Procurator Fiscal’s office was in close touch with DCI Carmichael, and he in turn was checking regularly that things were being done in accordance with procedures and protocols. users they’d identified so far – there were almost a thousand regulars, with thousands more one-time payers – were men ranging from their twenties to their seventies, from all corners of the UK and beyond, stretching as far as Australia and Bermuda. So far only one woman, based in Hong Kong but Scots-born.”
The tune travels. “someone was singing behind their cell door. It sounded like ‘Hurt’. Rebus knew Johnny Cash didn’t write it, but it was Cash’s version he liked. He recited the words silently until a mix of pleading and angry voices stilled the singer. Folsom Prison to San Quentin to Saughton. Quite the journey.”
Clarke reviews her case. “one name we’re having trouble identifying – Valerio.’ ‘Like the song?’ She spelled it for him. Rebus nodded. ‘“The Great Valerio” – I think he’s a tightrope-walker. It’s Richard and Linda Thompson. Are you telling me you don’t know the Bright Lights album?’ ‘I could sing it to you if you like?’ ‘What a pity visiting time is up,’ she said with a smile.” Later. “she had her earbuds in and was staring at what looked like a poem on her computer. Realising she had company, Clarke yanked one of the buds out. — a song by Richard and Linda Thompson,’ she started to explain. ‘Valerio is a high-wire act in a circus.’ —reading the lyrics. ‘So he has a safety net, but it’s not really needed because he’s so good, and everyone down below is craning their necks in awe of him.’ Recollection. “he had reached around her at her desk and with a few keystrokes got her computer working. He’d done the same for Zara Shah, too, impressing her with his command of IT jargon. Valerio: the high-wire act… Valerio: so different from the crowd far below… when she’d mentioned the name Valerio to him, he’d blanked it. A name he should have recognised.” Tell tale clue. ‘ it’s from a Sherlock Holmes story, I think. Did you know Conan Doyle was born here in Edinburgh? Got out as soon as he could, mind.’ — ‘The quote’s something to do with ruling out the probable and improbable. Once you’ve done that, even if the solution seems impossible, that’s what it has to be.’
Old Rebus. “somebody needs to do something to take the bastard down.’ ‘Doesn’t have to be a retired cop who’s pushing seventy, though, does it?’ ‘You think I’ve not got it in me?’ Rebus made show of puffing out his chest. Clarke gave a little laugh and shook her head.”
Well no real spoilers, a couple of clues, a few songs… perhaps the taste of prison life will pull you in soon? Or you could go chronological… books 1-24 in order… whichever way, be assured it all good.
November 15, 2024
Retired detective is in prison for murder. There's a murder in his cell block. Naturally he gets involved because he can't help himself. Meanwhile on the outside there's a missing 14yo old girl absorbing his former partner, Siobhan Clarke's attention. There's a slight linkage. Organized crime, drugs, and pornography. The internecine infighting within the police bureaucracy alludes me. You only need to know DS Malcolm Fox is a one way. I have no desire to read any of Rankin's mysteries with him. The plot is average and bogs down and has an unlikely and unbelievable suspect for another murder. But it ends with hope for Rebus. Time to end this series and hand it over to Siobhan Clarke whom I'd much prefer to read about.
Read
January 18, 2025It has been a while since I have read a Rebus book. I enjoyed it. I've always liked John Rebus. It must be the bad boy in him that I am attracted to. I was surprised that Malcolm Fox from the COMPLAINTS series was turned into a shady character. I wish Mr. Rankin had given Malcolm his own series exploring the COMPLAINTS (Internal Affairs in the US) side of police work.
May 28, 2025
Setting: Edinburgh, Scotland; modern day.
Former police inspector John Rebus has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the attempted murder of his arch-nemesis Ger Cafferty. Pending news of his appeal, Rebus finds himself involved in trying to solve the murder of an inmate in his cell - but was the offence committed by another inmate or a prison officer?
Meanwhile, Rebus's former colleagues are hunting for a 14-year-old schoolgirl who has gone missing from home - only to find she has been appearing on a sex webcam service....
Even now at number 25 in the series, the Rebus novels are still highly entertaining, although as he is now retired and in this one actually incarcerated in prison, it requires a bit more suspension of disbelief to accept what he is allowed to get away with! Another excellent crime novel overall - 8.5/10.
Former police inspector John Rebus has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the attempted murder of his arch-nemesis Ger Cafferty. Pending news of his appeal, Rebus finds himself involved in trying to solve the murder of an inmate in his cell - but was the offence committed by another inmate or a prison officer?
Meanwhile, Rebus's former colleagues are hunting for a 14-year-old schoolgirl who has gone missing from home - only to find she has been appearing on a sex webcam service....
Even now at number 25 in the series, the Rebus novels are still highly entertaining, although as he is now retired and in this one actually incarcerated in prison, it requires a bit more suspension of disbelief to accept what he is allowed to get away with! Another excellent crime novel overall - 8.5/10.
November 5, 2024
By now, I've read enough Rebus novels to have a good feel for the character, but Ian Rankin keeps surprising me. This was a great page-turner, with short chapters and enough twists and turns to keep me engaged throughout. It's also the first Rebus novel where I had no suspects for the two murders that occur. Usually I have a list of several, but that doesn't mean that I have a good track record of solving these cases. I don't. Plus, I also learned some new things about John Rebus.
In the last novel, Rebus was found guilty of a crime and imprisoned. But that doesn't stop his natural curiosity and keen observation to get involved in trying to solve the spin on locked room mysteries that occurs within the prison walls. There's a second murder that takes place in the outside world of Edinburgh, and a missing teenage girl case for the local law enforcement to solve.
Rankin always does a marvelous job of characterization, and in this novel he really fleshes out the roles of some reoccuring associates of Rebus, as well as some new and interesting investigators.
Rebus is aging, but here's hoping he's good for several more novels. I'll keep reading them.
In the last novel, Rebus was found guilty of a crime and imprisoned. But that doesn't stop his natural curiosity and keen observation to get involved in trying to solve the spin on locked room mysteries that occurs within the prison walls. There's a second murder that takes place in the outside world of Edinburgh, and a missing teenage girl case for the local law enforcement to solve.
Rankin always does a marvelous job of characterization, and in this novel he really fleshes out the roles of some reoccuring associates of Rebus, as well as some new and interesting investigators.
Rebus is aging, but here's hoping he's good for several more novels. I'll keep reading them.
October 30, 2024
John Rebus, you can take the man out of CID but you can't take CID out of the man! Even banged up in HMP Edinburgh, he still has the most incredible steely grit and determination when he puts his mind to something. Ex cop that's been placed in Gen Pop. It made for extremely interesting and suspenseful reading. I loved this book! Like all Rebus books, it was extremely hard to put the book down. Sir Ian has struck gold again with the latest in the Rebus novels. It was so well written and descriptive. Lots of twists and turns and huge amounts of suspense. It was the perfect read as I finish off my October TBR list. The book is written in third person from multiple perspectives as always. Which isn't a bad thing in the grand scheme of the novel. We get our teeth into several investigations. I loved all the characters. Even Malcolm Fox. I love to hate him. He's selfish and smarmy. I loved everything about the book and I cannot recommend it enough!!!!
March 2, 2025
Overall I enjoyed this John Rebus novel. I thought the storyline of Rebus finding himself convicted of murder and having to solve a homicide case of a fellow inmate was intriguing while his former detective colleagues, Malcolm Fox, Christine Esson & Siobhan Clarke investigate a missing person & murder on the outside. Being the edgy cop who straddles the law & occasionally crosses legal boundaries and sometimes even garnered begrudging respect of certain criminals gives Rebus an unusual and complex position within the confines of his prison life. Rebus is one of the few ex-CID cop willing to transfer to a cell in the general population giving him the opportunity for new investigatory adventures but placing himself in danger of enemies who hold deadly grudges against him.
While I enjoyed reading this story, I found myself having to suspend belief that even John Rebus could survive in general population while waiting appeal of his conviction & that there would be a criminal boss such as Darryl Christie willing to offer protection to Rebus. Not wholly convinced that Christie would have felt he owed Rebus any protection for contributing to the death of Big Ger, one of Christie’s rivals. (By the way I’m glad Rebus had Christie looking out for him!)
Lastly, there was so much dialogue in the novel rather than character development, it seemed like the author was writing it more for hopes for a tv screenplay than to the appeal to his reader fans. I’ve enjoyed the prior Rebus novels. This one was good but not up to par with his other Rebus stories.
One side note: I am wondering what is in store for Malcolm Fox, if anything. Has the author decided to end his stories? I’m curious to know.
While I enjoyed reading this story, I found myself having to suspend belief that even John Rebus could survive in general population while waiting appeal of his conviction & that there would be a criminal boss such as Darryl Christie willing to offer protection to Rebus. Not wholly convinced that Christie would have felt he owed Rebus any protection for contributing to the death of Big Ger, one of Christie’s rivals. (By the way I’m glad Rebus had Christie looking out for him!)
Lastly, there was so much dialogue in the novel rather than character development, it seemed like the author was writing it more for hopes for a tv screenplay than to the appeal to his reader fans. I’ve enjoyed the prior Rebus novels. This one was good but not up to par with his other Rebus stories.
One side note: I am wondering what is in store for Malcolm Fox, if anything. Has the author decided to end his stories? I’m curious to know.
October 13, 2024
Ian Rankin tries his hand at the locked room mystery and pulls it off with aplomb.
The last Rebus novel finished with the eponymous hero in the dock, accused of murder. This one begins with Rebus in prison, initially in solitary to avoid the malign intentions of cons he helped put away, but he finds himself moved to a cell within the main prison.
The governor could use Rebus’s help with investigating the demise of an inmate who was killed in a seemingly locked cell, under the nose of his drugged cell mate. Is it a fellow prisoner or a prison officer who is responsible for the murder?
Outside, DI Siobhan Clarke is investigating the disappearance of teenage girl, against a backdrop of a struggle for drug supremacy across Edinburgh.
With his usual seamless skill, Rankin integrates these various plots. How does he seem to move a narrative so compellingly and seemingly effortlessly? Add into the mix Rebus managing to torment DS Malcolm Fox even within the confines of HMP Edinburgh and you have another cracking Rebus novel.
Ever since Rebus retired from Police Scotland I’ve wondered how Ian Rankin was going to keep the series going. He seems to find continually inventive ways to land John Rebus into the centre of Edinburgh’s murderous heart. And I’m very glad that he does.
The last Rebus novel finished with the eponymous hero in the dock, accused of murder. This one begins with Rebus in prison, initially in solitary to avoid the malign intentions of cons he helped put away, but he finds himself moved to a cell within the main prison.
The governor could use Rebus’s help with investigating the demise of an inmate who was killed in a seemingly locked cell, under the nose of his drugged cell mate. Is it a fellow prisoner or a prison officer who is responsible for the murder?
Outside, DI Siobhan Clarke is investigating the disappearance of teenage girl, against a backdrop of a struggle for drug supremacy across Edinburgh.
With his usual seamless skill, Rankin integrates these various plots. How does he seem to move a narrative so compellingly and seemingly effortlessly? Add into the mix Rebus managing to torment DS Malcolm Fox even within the confines of HMP Edinburgh and you have another cracking Rebus novel.
Ever since Rebus retired from Police Scotland I’ve wondered how Ian Rankin was going to keep the series going. He seems to find continually inventive ways to land John Rebus into the centre of Edinburgh’s murderous heart. And I’m very glad that he does.
February 6, 2025
Unbelievable. I've read all 25 and followed Rebus through the years. This one is probably the least engaging of them all. Rebus is in prison which really limits what he can do so we spend a lot of time on the outside with the next generation of detectives, one of which he trained himself. But with him locked up and his arch enemy dead, it gets tedious trying to follow the ins and outs of the new gangs of thugs threatening Edinburgh, and Rebus himself.
November 11, 2024
The end must be near for Rebus - he is a character that’s pretty much a spent force. He wasn’t even at the forefront of this instalment.
For a long time I thought it would be great for Rankin to go back and write more instalments from the start of Rebus’s career. Or maybe to kill him off and run with Siobhan. Definitely need to kill off Malcom Fox who is beyond an irritation now!
Hope Rankin reboots things now and avoids a slow demise.
For a long time I thought it would be great for Rankin to go back and write more instalments from the start of Rebus’s career. Or maybe to kill him off and run with Siobhan. Definitely need to kill off Malcom Fox who is beyond an irritation now!
Hope Rankin reboots things now and avoids a slow demise.
October 19, 2024
Over the past several decades Scottish author Ian Rankin has become not just a master of the crime/mystery genre but one of the best in the world at what he does. His long-running and immensely popular series featuring Inspector John Rebus is legendary. Additionally, it has spawned three incarnations of tv series with the BBC featuring actors John Hannah, Ken Stott, and a brand-new series about to air in the UK with actor Richard Rankin.
When I had the pleasure of meeting with Ian Rankin about ten or so years ago he shared with me that he pictured a younger version of Scottish actor Brian Cox, now most famous for his role on Succession, in the part of Rebus. With this newest novel, MIDNIGHT AND BLUE, we are not only treated to Rebus and his usual band of supporting characters but also Detective Malcolm Fox who is featured in another Rankin series.
For those who have not spent time with Rebus in a bit it will be a bit alarming to find that he spends the entire novel in prison, incarcerated for allegedly murdering a key witness in a case he has been working. While he awaits word from his barrister about an appeal, he must navigate the very stealthy and deadly levels that is life in prison, where it is nearly impossible to trust the inmates or the prison guards.
There is a short passage at the top of the novel entitled BEFORE, where we witness a burglar breaking into a nail salon and discovering something unexpected. That crime will play a big role in the events to come in the present action. Rebus has a luxury cell all to himself and has managed to stay on the good side of both fellow inmates and prison personnel. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the word is out that he is under the protection of incarcerated crime lord Darryl Christie, who may be asking Rebus to return that favor in a big way.
Christie has helped Rebus out by getting him access to burner phones that he uses to make unregistered calls to his former police colleagues. This comes in quite handy when there is a brutal murder in the prison of the supposed ‘locked door’ fashion when an inmate named Jackie Simpson has his throat cut in his lower bunk while his roommate on the upper bunk, Jamieson, was apparently drugged and unaware of what was happening. Rumors began to circle about problems Simpson had with a couple of guards and the police are called into handle the matter.
Detective Christine Esson and her new partner Jason Mulgrew are the first on the case. Ironically, Jason took the job that had previously belonged to Rebus’s former colleague Siobahn Clarke. Not only are Clarke and Esson working another case about a missing teen girl and an online sex ring but Esson and her team are being asked to share the prison murder with OCCTU and Malcolm Fox. Fox does not endear himself to anyone in this novel, making that case rather bumpy. It comes as no surprise that both the Warden as well as those who previously worked with Rebus are leaning on him to investigate quietly on the inside to learn what the police could never discover on their own.
Rebus, treading softly, uses all his guile and interpersonal skills to not only learn what he can from the guards who have come under suspicion but also keeping things above-board with the inmates he has worked hard to establish rapport with. When it turns out that the deceased, Simpson, was the burglar depicted at the start of the novel and that the nail salon that was broken into fell under the territory of Darryl Christie, things really get interesting.
There is not a dull moment in this hugely enjoyable novel and the unique nature of how Rebus is used --- as an inmate rather than law enforcement --- adds an additional layer of complexity to the narrative. Rankin has put together a masterful plot that links everything together and then leaves readers on a cliff hanger when Rebus’s barrister finally reaches out to him with news about his appeal. MIDNIGHT AND BLUE is yet another classic from the great Ian Rankin.
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
When I had the pleasure of meeting with Ian Rankin about ten or so years ago he shared with me that he pictured a younger version of Scottish actor Brian Cox, now most famous for his role on Succession, in the part of Rebus. With this newest novel, MIDNIGHT AND BLUE, we are not only treated to Rebus and his usual band of supporting characters but also Detective Malcolm Fox who is featured in another Rankin series.
For those who have not spent time with Rebus in a bit it will be a bit alarming to find that he spends the entire novel in prison, incarcerated for allegedly murdering a key witness in a case he has been working. While he awaits word from his barrister about an appeal, he must navigate the very stealthy and deadly levels that is life in prison, where it is nearly impossible to trust the inmates or the prison guards.
There is a short passage at the top of the novel entitled BEFORE, where we witness a burglar breaking into a nail salon and discovering something unexpected. That crime will play a big role in the events to come in the present action. Rebus has a luxury cell all to himself and has managed to stay on the good side of both fellow inmates and prison personnel. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the word is out that he is under the protection of incarcerated crime lord Darryl Christie, who may be asking Rebus to return that favor in a big way.
Christie has helped Rebus out by getting him access to burner phones that he uses to make unregistered calls to his former police colleagues. This comes in quite handy when there is a brutal murder in the prison of the supposed ‘locked door’ fashion when an inmate named Jackie Simpson has his throat cut in his lower bunk while his roommate on the upper bunk, Jamieson, was apparently drugged and unaware of what was happening. Rumors began to circle about problems Simpson had with a couple of guards and the police are called into handle the matter.
Detective Christine Esson and her new partner Jason Mulgrew are the first on the case. Ironically, Jason took the job that had previously belonged to Rebus’s former colleague Siobahn Clarke. Not only are Clarke and Esson working another case about a missing teen girl and an online sex ring but Esson and her team are being asked to share the prison murder with OCCTU and Malcolm Fox. Fox does not endear himself to anyone in this novel, making that case rather bumpy. It comes as no surprise that both the Warden as well as those who previously worked with Rebus are leaning on him to investigate quietly on the inside to learn what the police could never discover on their own.
Rebus, treading softly, uses all his guile and interpersonal skills to not only learn what he can from the guards who have come under suspicion but also keeping things above-board with the inmates he has worked hard to establish rapport with. When it turns out that the deceased, Simpson, was the burglar depicted at the start of the novel and that the nail salon that was broken into fell under the territory of Darryl Christie, things really get interesting.
There is not a dull moment in this hugely enjoyable novel and the unique nature of how Rebus is used --- as an inmate rather than law enforcement --- adds an additional layer of complexity to the narrative. Rankin has put together a masterful plot that links everything together and then leaves readers on a cliff hanger when Rebus’s barrister finally reaches out to him with news about his appeal. MIDNIGHT AND BLUE is yet another classic from the great Ian Rankin.
Reviewed by Ray Palen for Book Reporter
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