Mortal Causes

by Ian Rankin
Mortal Causes cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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Paperback • £9.99
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Technical
  • ID: 9170
  • Added: 2025-12-23
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781451649161
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2011-03-22
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Inspector John Rebus of the Edinburgh police force has always had a love-hate relationship with the city's annual festival. But this year, the festivities take a dark turn when he discovers the lifeless body of Billy Cunningham, son of notorious gangster Big Ger Cafferty, hanging from a butcher's hook in the medieval quarter of Mary King's Close. As Rebus delves into the case, he realizes that the killer is no ordinary criminal, but a professional who could strike fear into the heart of even Big Ger himself. With the stakes higher than ever, Rebus must navigate a web of deceit and danger to bring the killer to justice. The sixth installment in the Inspector Rebus series, Mortal Causes is a gripping tale of crime and suspense that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its vivid depiction of Edinburgh's underbelly and its complex, flawed protagonist, this novel is a testament to the enduring appeal of the crime genre.

Reviews
Mum of Three World · 2017-01-27
satisfying 4.00

This was a challenging but ultimately satisfying read. The reviewer found it to be one of the harder Inspector Rebus novels but enjoyed it immensely.

The reviewer describes this novel as the hardest Inspector Rebus book they've read so far, but ultimately very satisfying. They appreciate the depth and complexity of the story, which kept them engaged despite its challenges. The reviewer also notes that the book's exploration of themes and characters is particularly noteworthy, making it a standout in the series.

Quick quotes

    For me, this has been the hardest Inspector Rebus novel to read to date.

    But it was ultimately a very satisfying read.

    I would definitely recommend this book to fans of the series.

Classic Mystery Blog · 2011-03-10
good 3.50

The plot moves forward sensibly, with some predictable elements typical of the genre. The book's pacing and structure are well-executed.

The reviewer appreciates the book's tight plot and engaging narrative, noting that while some elements are predictable, the story remains compelling. They highlight the book's ability to keep the reader engaged throughout, making it a satisfying read. The reviewer also mentions that the book's structure and pacing are well-balanced, contributing to an enjoyable reading experience.

Quick quotes

    The plot kept moving forward and it came together sensibly.

    While some elements were predictable, as is often the nature of a book.

    It came together sensibly and while some elements were predictable, as is often the nature of a book.

BooksPlease · 2010-01-17
complex 4.50

This book is more than just crime fiction; it delves into complex themes of guilt and revenge. The reviewer appreciates its depth and psychological exploration.

The reviewer highlights that this book, like others in the series, goes beyond typical crime fiction. They praise its exploration of psychological themes such as guilt and revenge, which add layers of complexity to the story. The reviewer also notes that the book's character development and thematic depth make it a standout read, offering more than just a straightforward crime narrative.

Quick quotes

    This book, like the other Rebus books I've read, is more than crime fiction.

    It's a complex story exploring the psychology of guilt, revenge and more.

    It's a complex story exploring the psychology of guilt, revenge and more.

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