GRAFTON Sue

Book Review – S IS FOR SILENCE by Sue Grafton

Book Review – S IS FOR SILENCE by Sue Grafton

This is the second novel by Sue Grafton that I have read. I thoroughly enjoyed B is for Burglar when I read it over a year ago and was looking forward to reading another Kinsey Millhone mystery.

Unfortunately S is for Silence didn’t live up to expectations for me. The murder mystery story itself was quite good, with a reasonably complex plot with clues gradually unveiled through flashbacks from multiple characters viewpoints. For me however, the element I most enjoyed in B is for Burglar, the personal touch of PI Kinsey Millhone, was somehow lacking this time round. Rather than being a central figure, she seemed to play a lesser role in this novel.

B IS FOR BURGLAR by Sue Grafton

B IS FOR BURGLAR by Sue Grafton

Kinsey Millhone, Grafton’s no-nonsense, gutsy female private investigator is the benchmark in the crime/detective genre. Although the settings are a little dated now, the book having been written over 20 years ago (back when people sent letters and checked through paper records rather than online databases) this doesn’t detract from the story. While the plot is strong, snappy and filled with clever linkages and details, it remains an easy, relaxing read. Grafton writes dialogue very well and doesn’t let descriptive narrative get in the way of a compelling story. Great author, great book!