4.05
Part of "Inspector Ian Rutledge" series
"A Fearsome Doubt: A Mystery of the Scottish Highlands" by Charles Todd is a gripping historical mystery novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The book is the first in the Ian Rutledge series, and it introduces readers to the troubled protagonist, a Scotland Yard detective who is haunted by the ghost of a soldier he was forced to execute during World War I. The story is set in 1919, in the Scottish Highlands, where a young woman has gone missing, and her father, a powerful and wealthy landowner, is desperate to find her. Rutledge is sent to investigate, and he quickly discovers that the woman's disappearance is not an isolated incident. There have been other disappearances in the area, and the locals are terrified. As Rutledge delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies that threaten to destroy the fabric of the community. The investigation forces him to confront his own demons, and he must come to terms with the trauma of the war and the guilt he feels over the execution of the soldier. Todd's writing is masterful, and the vivid descriptions of the Scottish Highlands and the tight-knit community add depth and richness to the story. The characters are well-developed, and Rutledge is a complex and compelling protagonist. The pacing is excellent, and the tension builds steadily throughout the book, culminating in a thrilling and unexpected conclusion. Overall, "A Fearsome Doubt" is a brilliant historical mystery that will appeal to fans of authors like Caleb Carr and Anne Perry. It is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that explores the human condition and the long-lasting impact of war. Highly recommended...
Alex Grecian
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