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A review by jenmcmaynes
Master of the Moor by Ruth Rendell
3.0
I would actually give this book 2.5 stars, if possible.
This psychological study just didn't hit any of the right notes for me. The 'mystery' was virtually non-existent, and I had figured it out well before the end. The characters, which should have been the driving force of this book, were flat and not very likable (with the exception of Lyn, whom I was rooting for throughout). And the psychology on display, including a nice Oedipus complex, was so text-book, Pysch 101 that watching it unfold wasn't very exciting. Perhaps when the book was first published this would have been more cutting edge?
On the plus side, the rather large twist that occurs at about the three-quarter mark was excellent! I didn't see it coming, and thought Rendell did a great job with the build-up and revelation. Also, her descriptions of the moor conveyed the barren, harsh beauty nicely and really added to the overall atmosphere of the story.
Overall, I wasn't super impressed, but will continue trying out Rendell, since I enjoy her works as Barbara Vine very much.
This psychological study just didn't hit any of the right notes for me. The 'mystery' was virtually non-existent, and I had figured it out well before the end. The characters, which should have been the driving force of this book, were flat and not very likable (with the exception of Lyn, whom I was rooting for throughout). And the psychology on display, including a nice Oedipus complex, was so text-book, Pysch 101 that watching it unfold wasn't very exciting. Perhaps when the book was first published this would have been more cutting edge?
On the plus side, the rather large twist that occurs at about the three-quarter mark was excellent! I didn't see it coming, and thought Rendell did a great job with the build-up and revelation. Also, her descriptions of the moor conveyed the barren, harsh beauty nicely and really added to the overall atmosphere of the story.
Overall, I wasn't super impressed, but will continue trying out Rendell, since I enjoy her works as Barbara Vine very much.