Book Review: Strip Jack by Ian Rankin

Rebus’ life is full of twists and turns, some are the creation of his own actions along with jeopardising investigations he is often involved in. Strip Jack is another one of those. The depth Rankin bestows in his character is enchanting. Rankin’s words complete Rebus. They’re companionship is brawny. Without one of them, I cannot imagine other one’s world.

I have read more than half of the books published under John Rebus’ series and this one is a masterpiece. If you ask me, why? For the reason that I have never seen any of the Rankin’s story to start and end at equal levels so astonishingly.

The story begins with a police operation. Raiding a brothel in a relatively high-class neighbourhood but, they happen to find the an MP name Gregor Jack belonging to North and South Esk constituency who, so far in the public eye had been an immaculate. However, Rebus was convinced that there was something strange about it, considering the horde of reporters who were waiting outside the brothel during the raid, something which only the police had known. Jack’s wife is missing and is eventually found in the river, murdered. MP Gregor Jack is bereaved and at the same time, is going through a bad time because of the brothel incident and John Rebus, is keen to uncover the mystery surrounding this incident.

The plot moves steadily, if you have read any of the Rankin’s books before, you  can imagine how it moves, transparently. Rankin certainly has his own visionary way of representing Scotland to his readers. Music is another big part of both the character and its creator and I believe that’s one personal touch provided by the author to his artistry creation.

This complete mystery is perfect for a wintry weekend. Recommended!

5 out of 5

Explore Ian Rankin:

Book Reviews- Set in Darkness, Saints of the Shadow Bible, A Cool Head

Essay on John Rebus