Book Review: The Devil and The River By RJ Ellory

In yet another of her brilliant literary critiques, Patricia Ledger reviews RJ Ellory's latest thriller The Devil and The River.

What a treat - a new book from one of my favourite authors - R.J. Ellory - and The Devil and The River certainly does not disappoint.

Set in the Deep South of the USA in the 1970s, the book begins with the horrific discovery of a young dead girl found drowned on the banks of the Mississippi River. However, when local Sheriff, John Gaines, arrives to investigate, the full horrors of the death lead to unspeakable repercussions. A suspect is quickly arrested but all is not as it seems and more deaths and tragic events unfold.

I would hate to give too much away - the plot intensifies into a truly heartstopping thriller with so many twists and turns. The characters are both fascinating and in some cases repelling. I also enjoyed the undercurrent story of Sheriff Gaines` experiences in the Vietnam War and one of the chief suspects` experiences in the 2nd World War and how these effected their post-war mentalities and lives. Intertwined are also undercurrents of corruption, and the Klu Klux Klan - I could almost feel myself in the hot, swampy, oppressive and insular States of the Deep South.

The ending is terrific  - so great to be surprised and satisfied.

Ellory never ceases to entertain and I strongly recommend this book to our Total Guide readers - I think you will become as hooked as I am and try out some more of his great thrillers.