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dennasus's review against another edition
mysterious
medium-paced
3.0
I liked Shanti and Caine, even though the Buddhism philosophy felt a bit random sometimes. The crime itself was intriguing enough, but a bit too gross in some aspects for my taste. So I don't know... I would definitely read 2nd book of this series to see how see more Shanti and Caine
carlyw33's review
mysterious
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
pema66's review
2.0
As an art loving Buddhist I expected to really enjoy this book. I did like the characters of Vincent Caine and Marlene and the crime was interesting, but the writing style and quite a lot of the police dialogue required a lot of practice of the paramitas to get through!
I doubt very much that a female Asian DI would have the same attitudes and phrases as a 1970s male detective. It was very Shanti does the Sweeney!
Throughout the book, but most noticeably in the first third, the writing was so heavy with speech that it almost read like a play. Some people might enjoy this style but it’s not for me. I was also driven half insane by Shanti using Benno’s name every single time she addressed him within a long conversation. People just don’t do that.
I think with a few less cliches, tighter writing, and a better drawn companion character, I might be interested in giving the mindful detective himself one more chance, because I like the premise.
I doubt very much that a female Asian DI would have the same attitudes and phrases as a 1970s male detective. It was very Shanti does the Sweeney!
Throughout the book, but most noticeably in the first third, the writing was so heavy with speech that it almost read like a play. Some people might enjoy this style but it’s not for me. I was also driven half insane by Shanti using Benno’s name every single time she addressed him within a long conversation. People just don’t do that.
I think with a few less cliches, tighter writing, and a better drawn companion character, I might be interested in giving the mindful detective himself one more chance, because I like the premise.
tessamcevan's review against another edition
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
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