The Blue Nowhere
This is one of Jane’s books that she recommended I read. She really likes her crime thrillers, whereas I am more of a fantasy/science fiction fan. Still, I’m always willing to give new things a try (even if it is just to say I don’t like them). Basic premise is this: One gifted computer expert likes to break into people’s lives through their computers, then use the information on there to get close enough to stab them through the heart. Another gifted computer expert who is serving jail time, and is also an old acquaintance of the first hacker, is brought in to work with the Police to stop the murderous rampage. There were lots of nice twists and unexpected turns, it really felt at times that I was reading a movie rather than a book; Not a movie script, but an actual movie. The pacing was swift, the action scenes tight and very Hollywood. Phate, at one point actually says that he “touches himself at night”. That, for me, was the comedy highlight, no matter how unintended. All the more funny when you find out the identity of his accomplice at the end…
The Vanished Man
Now, I’ve only read two of Deaver’s books, but do they all follow a pretty similar theme? A killer surfaces with a knowledge of a profession not usually associated with murder, then the Police draft in someone in that trade to help with their investigations. Do they all follow that trend? Saying that, I totally loved Kara – the young apprentice magician that the Police brought in to help with tracking the killer. Not as awesome as Lyra from His Dark Materials, but almost. This book was also full of unusual twists, red herrings, surprise revelations and had me second- and third-guessing what was actually going on. A Deaver trademark, I take it.
I don’t think I’m looking forward to reading any more Jeffery Deaver books. The two I have read, while being entertaining, were virtually identical in structure. Sure, 99% of the ideas, settings, themes and characters were different, but it just felt as if he’s found his rhythm, realised it sells books, and has settled into it. Jane does have more by him, so if I ever run out of books to read then I’ll give them a try, if only to find out they are formulaic. I hope they’re not.
