Let the Devil Sleep

These books hit SO VERY CLOSE to the mark and yet I am always left feeling that something is missing, even with the kitchen sink approach that Verdon employs. I have enjoyed the puzzle-making aspects of the series, but the solving always seems too pat, too simple and easily explained though completely unforeseen. Auxiliary characters are caricatures of the way the reader is supposed to feel about them, and the books seem crafted around retired detective Gurney and his prey, with little regard to the mystery that requires their interaction.

I find myself frustrated with the length and depth of detail of these books, and at the same time hoping that the author will, with the newest installment in the series, find purchase with the promise of the genius he sometimes flashes.