Twisty and laden with numerous moments of increased anticipation that propel the reader forward with urgency, The Instruments of Darkness is an incredibly well written story with a little bit of everything – crime, investigations, violent action and a touch of the supernatural. John Connolly has crafted an explosive thriller loaded with darkness and scheming, counteracted by sincerity and righteousness.
Colleen Clark is accused of abducting and killing her own son, and everyone in Maine thinks she’s guilty. But she’s entitled to a defense and fair trial. Enter Lawyer Moxie Castin and private investigator Charlie Parker, who after some initial investigating believe Colleen to be innocent. But proving that she was set up is the hard part. Involving a husband who is certain of his wife’s guilt, a medium/psychic with a dubious past, strange characters and even stranger houses in the woods, and racists arming themselves for battle, the investigation will take multiple twists and turns – some deadly – until the truth is finally revealed.
This was my first Charlie Parker novel, but it certainly won’t be my last. I was struck by Parker’s quiet professionalism and pragmatic investigations approach that leaves emotion out of the equation. He’s intelligent, highly capable and relentless. He has a stable of resources at his disposal that allows him to obtain critical and hard to get information or provide muscle/backup for dangerous situations, situations in which he’s able to handle himself with aplomb. Furthermore, he has a past that adds depth to his actions, motivations and thought processes. All of which make him a fascinating character.
And in The Instruments of Darkness, all those character traits come into play. Parker engages in a battle of wits with cunning lawyers. He must discern fact from fiction as he interviews individuals with various motivations and reputations. He puts himself in harm's way in the name of justice. All the while there’s a darkness lurking that he may be uniquely qualified to understand. Leading to a showdown where no one is left unscathed. It’s exciting and compelling stuff.
It's a masterfully crafted tale by John Connolly. One that is sure to thrill and satisfy long-term Parker fans while also providing an accessible on ramp for new readers to experience this excellent series.
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