4.17
Part of "Bernie Gunther" series
"A Quiet Flame" by Philip Kerr is a gripping historical thriller that transports readers to Argentina in 1950. The novel features Bernie Gunther, Kerr's popular protagonist, who is now working as a hotel detective after fleeing the Nazi regime. However, Gunther's past continues to haunt him, and he finds himself drawn into a dangerous investigation when a former flame asks him to find her missing husband. As Gunther delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit and corruption that leads to the highest levels of Argentine society, including former Nazis who have sought refuge in the country. Kerr's meticulous research and attention to detail bring the era to life, immersing readers in a world of glamour and danger, where nothing is as it seems. Gunther is a complex and compelling protagonist, a man who is both a product of his time and a rebel against it. He is haunted by his past actions and struggles to reconcile his own morality with the demands of the world around him. Kerr explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the human capacity for both good and evil. "A Quiet Flame" is a masterful blend of historical fiction and thriller, with a complex plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Kerr's prose is sharp and witty, and his ability to create vivid and memorable characters is unparalleled. This novel is a must-read for fans of historical fiction, thrillers, and complex, morally ambiguous protagonists. Overall, "A Quiet Flame" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that will leave readers questioning their own assumptions about the past and the present. It is a testament to Kerr's skill as a writer that he can create a story that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating, and "A Quiet Flame" is a shining example of his talent...
Dennis Lehane
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