Last year I was honoured to be asked to interview the fabulous Lynda La Plante. Good Friday recently had its paperback publication day, so I’ve decided to share the link to my Q&A and a #minireview of one of my favourite book series! Enjoy ?
During 1974 and 1975 the IRA subjected London to a terrifying bombing campaign. In one day alone, they planted seven bombs at locations across central London. Some were defused – some were not.
Jane Tennison is now a fully-fledged detective. On the way to court one morning, Jane passes through Covent Garden Underground station and is caught up in a bomb blast that leaves several people dead, and many horribly injured. Jane is a key witness, but is adamant that she can’t identify the bomber. When a photograph appears in the newspapers, showing Jane assisting the injured at the scene, it puts her and her family at risk from IRA retaliation.
‘Good Friday’ is the eagerly awaited date of the annual formal CID dinner, due to take place at St Ermin’s Hotel. Hundreds of detectives and their wives will be there. It’s the perfect target. As Jane arrives for the evening, she realises that she recognises the parking attendant as the bomber from Covent Garden. Can she convince her senior officers in time, or will another bomb destroy London’s entire detective force?
‘La Plante excels in her ability to pick out the surprising but plausible details that give her portrayal of everyday life in a police station a rare ring of authenticity’ Sunday Telegraph
My #Mini Review
I’m a huge fan of this series so I bought myself a copy (even though the fabulous Bonnier Zaffre sent me a proof -thank you) and immediately got stuck in!
The author takes us back to London in the 70’s where we see the politics in policing, inequality, terrorism, fear, relationships, the search for justice to name just a few of the themes present in this novel.
I was immediately hooked by the prologue and loved the fact that we were taken back to where it all began for Jane Tennison. A compelling and relevant story for the timeline and an absolute page-turner for me. I loved the narrative, the vibe and the excellent description which filled these pages.
The characterisation was fantastic but I’ll focus on Jane Tennison for this mini review because (a) she is my favourite and (b) it really shows how much she has changed. I bloody LOVE Jane! Tenacious, dedicated, determined, focussed but also quite vulnerable and somewhat naive at times we see the early makings of this iconic character and I couldn’t be happier.
Do I recommend this book? Oh you bet your sweet arse I do! Fans of this series will love the insight and new readers will enjoy the riveting plot, fantastic characterisation and the OMG moments for sure! I highly recommend you grab your copy today!
