The Complaints

by Ian Rankin
The Complaints cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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Paperback • £10.99
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Technical
  • ID: 10033
  • Added: 2026-01-05
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9781409107293
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2009-09-03
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Malcolm Fox works for 'The Complaints,' the unit that investigates other cops. Middle-aged, sour, and unwell, Fox is given a new task: to investigate Jamie Breck, a cop suspected of being dirty. As Fox delves deeper, he discovers there's more to Breck than meets the eye, leading to a dangerous game of cat and mouse. Set against the backdrop of an aggressive Edinburgh winter, this gripping tale explores the dark side of policing and the personal struggles of those who serve./n/nFrom the No.1 bestselling author of A SONG FOR THE DARK TIMES, THE COMPLAINTS is praised for its involving narrative and sure-footed guide through the city's underbelly. With a father in a care home and a sister in an abusive relationship, Fox's personal life adds depth to his professional challenges. As murder intervenes, Fox must navigate a treacherous path to uncover the truth.

Reviews
Irresponsible Reader · 2018-12-10
positive 4.00

The novel is enjoyable with a cleverly constructed mystery and a serious challenge for the new character. The plot is well-paced and engaging.

The reviewer expresses their enjoyment of the novel, highlighting how Ian Rankin introduces a serious challenge for his new character, Malcolm Fox. The mystery is cleverly constructed, keeping readers on their toes. The reviewer appreciates the well-paced plot, which maintains engagement throughout. They also mention that Rankin's writing style makes the story accessible and enjoyable. Overall, the sentiment is positive, with a focus on the book's strengths in character development and plot construction. The reviewer seems to appreciate the fresh start with a new protagonist, while also acknowledging the inevitable comparisons to Rebus.

Quick quotes

    I really enjoyed the novel, and Rankin gave his new character a serious challenge to start with.

    A very cleverly constructed mystery to untangle.

    The reviewer appreciates the well-paced plot, which maintains engagement throughout.

Petrona · 2010-06-02
excellent 4.50

The book delivers a twisty, solid plot and is much more than just a mystery. The character of Malcolm Fox is compelling and the writing is superb.

The reviewer praises 'The Complaints' for its twisty and solid plot, which goes beyond the typical mystery novel. They highlight the compelling character of Malcolm Fox, who is well-developed and engaging. The writing is described as superb, with not a word wasted. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the story, which offers more than just a straightforward mystery. The setting in Edinburgh adds to the atmosphere, making the story even more immersive. Overall, the sentiment is highly positive, with a focus on the book's strengths in character development, plot construction, and writing style. The reviewer seems to enjoy the fresh perspective that Rankin brings with his new protagonist.

Quick quotes

    Ian Rankin delivers a twisty, solid plot in The Complaints, but the book is much more than that.

    The character of Malcolm Fox is compelling and the writing is superb.

    The setting in Edinburgh adds to the atmosphere, making the story even more immersive.

The Guardian · PD James · 2009-09-11
positive 4.00

Ian Rankin's new detective is a worthy successor to Rebus, with a compelling and layered plot. The character development is strong, and the mystery is cleverly constructed.

In this review, PD James praises Ian Rankin's new detective, Malcolm Fox, as a worthy successor to the beloved Rebus. They highlight the book's compelling and layered plot, which keeps readers engaged throughout. The character development is particularly strong, with Fox's personality and motivations well-drawn. The mystery at the heart of the story is cleverly constructed, offering a satisfying challenge for both the characters and the readers. Overall, the review suggests that 'The Complaints' is a solid addition to Rankin's repertoire, with a fresh protagonist who holds great promise for future stories.

Quick quotes

    Ian Rankin's new detective is a worthy successor to the much-missed Rebus.

    The character development is particularly strong, with Fox's personality and motivations well-drawn.

    The mystery at the heart of the story is cleverly constructed, offering a satisfying challenge for both the characters and the readers.

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