Black and Blue

by Ian Rankin
Black and Blue cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Crime, Mystery, Thriller/Suspense
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 9171
  • Added: 2025-12-23
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781409107644
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2008-09-18
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In the gripping novel 'Black And Blue,' Ian Rankin, Britain's best crime novelist, delivers a suspenseful tale featuring the iconic DI John Rebus. The story unfolds as a copycat killer, dubbed Johnny Bible, emerges, mimicking the infamous Bible John's crimes from the 1960s. Rebus's unconventional methods have always been a double-edged sword, and this time, they land him in hot water. Taken away from the Johnny Bible inquiry, he's assigned to investigate the murder of an off-duty oilman. However, when his case intersects with the copycat killings, Rebus finds himself under intense media scrutiny and the watchful eye of an internal investigation. One misstep could cost him his job and, quite possibly, his life. /n/n Rankin's masterful storytelling and intricate plotting make 'Black And Blue' a standout in the crime fiction genre. The novel not only delves into the psychological depths of its characters but also explores the complexities of justice and the personal toll of pursuing it. With its richly drawn characters and relentless pace, this special edition includes exclusive extra material, offering fans and new readers alike an enhanced experience. A must-read for anyone who enjoys a masterfully crafted crime thriller.

Reviews
Garry Mulholland · 2024-07-27
ambitious 4.25

The book delves into police corruption and the impact of the oil industry on Scotland. It's a complex and ambitious mix of storylines that Rankin executes well.

The reviewer praises 'Black and Blue' for its ambitious mix of storylines, which Rankin manages to pull off effectively. The book touches on significant social issues, including police corruption and the impact of the oil industry on Scotland's economy and environment. While some loose threads and characters remain, the reviewer finds the overall narrative enjoyable and well-crafted. The depth of the story and its exploration of pertinent issues make it a standout read.

Quick quotes

    The book touches on various social issues, from police corruption to the impact of the oil industry on Scotland's economy and environment.

    It is an ambitious mix of storylines, but Rankin pulls it off well.

    Loose threads -- especially some of the characters -- remain, but it's an enjoyable ride.

Mum of Three World · 2023-01-06
engaging 4.50

The novel is a product of its time, with investigations reflecting the era's technology. It offers a compelling look into the social issues of the period.

The reviewer highlights that 'Black and Blue' is a crime novel very much of its time, with investigations using payphones, photos picked up from developers, the library, and Teletext. This reflection of the era's technology adds a layer of authenticity to the story. The book also touches on various social issues, providing a compelling look into the societal landscape of the time. The reviewer appreciates the novel's ability to capture the essence of its period, making it a rich and engaging read.

Quick quotes

    Black and Blue is a crime novel very much of its time.

    Investigations use payphones, photos picked up from the developers, the library and Teletext.

    It offers a compelling look into the social issues of the period.

The Invisible Event · 2019-05-28
intriguing 4.00

While the plot may become formulaic, the book still offers a gripping and intricate read. The character development and twists keep the story engaging.

The reviewer notes that while they initially enjoyed the series, they began to notice a formulaic nature in the plotting. Despite this, the book remains a gripping read with well-defined characters and intricate plotting containing many twists and turns. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the story and the way it keeps the reader engaged throughout. However, they do mention that the formulaic nature of the plotting may become apparent to even a novice reader of crime fiction.

Quick quotes

    I enjoyed the first few, until the formulaic nature of the plotting became clear even to me, a novice reader of crime fiction.

    There always seems to be a twist or a turn that keeps you engaged.

    The characters are well-defined and the plotting is intricate.

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