aPriL does feral sometimes 's Reviews > Tooth and Nail

‘Tooth and Nail’ by Ian Rankin is number three in the Edinburgh’s Inspector John Rebus series of mysteries. I wish all mysteries could have endings like this book! Loved it! Keystone Kops would have optioned the rights to vid it.

Rebus has been asked to go to London. He is representing Lothian and Borders Police, or as John's boss put it, ""No fuck ups, John."" Rebus has unexpectedly become a reputed expert on serial murderers although he truly feels mystified by why anyone would think that, especially the London police, and especially since the cases that apparently this new reputation is based on wasn't that in his opinion. Yet, here he is.

A killer is killing middle-aged women in a monstrous fashion involving biting and knives. Early days, but already four bodies with the recognized modus operandi have turned up. The press are going bonkers, already calling the murderer "the Wolfman." The only Englishman showing him any respect, faint as it is, is Detective Inspector George Flight.

Rebus finds time to visit his ex-wife Rhona in her new London flat to see his daughter, Samantha. Both women look terrifically good and happy he morosely notices. He also meets Samantha's lout of a boyfriend who he hates on sight.

FYTP.

This novel is fast-paced and a very exciting mystery! But there are graphic scenes, so sensitive readers beware. The series is very popular and in my opinion, has aged well despite it's age (book one is Knots and Crosses, published in 1987). Highly recommended.