2008-10-15 Another Thriller from Ellory

A Simple Act of Violence is very different to RJ Ellory's last novel A Quiet Belief In Angels in that it is more of a crime thriller.

But, yet again, nothing is quite as it seems. What apparently begins as a serial killer investigation in Washington soon emerges as something far more complicated.

Detective Robert Miller, the lead investigating officer gradually becomes more baffled by the case and Ellory's writing leaves the reader frantically turning the pages to find out just how is the `Ribbon Killer'.

Although the plot is very complex and incorporates the history of illegal drug trafficking and corruption within Intelligence agencies in the USA, this does not deter from the fast-moving and thrilling story line.

Ellory has not held back at all, the reader learns of massive undercover operations that have taken place during the many wars and conflicts that the USA have been part of, going back to the Nicaraguan conflict in the 1980s.

The lead character, Robert Miller is something of an enigma, he has a past that includes scandal and maybe cover up. Miller does not come across as your usual thriller detective - he has many weaknesses, and at times appears somewhat gullible and naïve.

The novel is interspersed with narrative from an unnamed character, the reader is kept guessing throughout the main of the story as to who this character really is. This narrative adds to the tension of the story, filling in some missing gaps for the reader, if not for Miller.

This is certainly no ordinary crime thriller, and Roger Ellory is certainly no ordinary author. I sat up until 1.30am to finish the novel.

Although 600 pages in length, the story is set over only ten full days, interspersed with recollections from the past and a smattering of American political history.

I cant recommend this highly enough and am so pleased to hear that RJ Ellory has secured a further book deal and