Edward Branley at a book signing reviewed Complaints by Ian Rankin
Review of 'Complaints' on 'Goodreads'
4 stars
The Complaints is Ian Rankin's first novel featuring Detective Inspector Malcolm Fox as the protagonist. DI Fox works for the "Complaints and Conduct Department" of Lothian and Borders Police, the cops for Edinburgh (now part of Police Scotland). "The Complaints" are Scotland's version of the Internal Affairs department/bureau you'd find in most American police departments. DI Fox and his team are the IAB cops, part of the "rat squad."
(potential spoilers below)
The novel starts out fairly straightforward, an investigation of an allegedly dirty cop. The story takes a personal turn, as the cop being investigated is in turn assigned to look into the death of the abusive boyfriend of Fox's sister. The internal politics and behind-the-scenes machinations from there are the sorts of things one would expect from Rankin.
The story is solid and believable, although a bit worn. Rankin had his franchise character, DI John Rebus, butting heads …
The Complaints is Ian Rankin's first novel featuring Detective Inspector Malcolm Fox as the protagonist. DI Fox works for the "Complaints and Conduct Department" of Lothian and Borders Police, the cops for Edinburgh (now part of Police Scotland). "The Complaints" are Scotland's version of the Internal Affairs department/bureau you'd find in most American police departments. DI Fox and his team are the IAB cops, part of the "rat squad."
(potential spoilers below)
The novel starts out fairly straightforward, an investigation of an allegedly dirty cop. The story takes a personal turn, as the cop being investigated is in turn assigned to look into the death of the abusive boyfriend of Fox's sister. The internal politics and behind-the-scenes machinations from there are the sorts of things one would expect from Rankin.
The story is solid and believable, although a bit worn. Rankin had his franchise character, DI John Rebus, butting heads with corrupt senior cops so many times, I let out a sigh when it came to Fox turning his attention to high-and-mightys as well. Unlike Rebus, though, it's Fox's job to follow the trail of corruption, so I let it go, and wasn't disappointed.
Fox is a teetotaler, which is a distinct difference in behavior and tone from Rebus. He's believable, but the stark contrast between the two men makes me wonder if Rankin believes that a middle ground can actually exist. His younger detectives drink, as do other characters. Is it possible to rise to the level of DI and not be an alcoholic?
Overall, this was a most enjoyable crime story. Recommended.