Amazon.co.uk Review
Be aware: this is not your typical Cornwell novel. Not only is there no Kay Scarpetta, but
Isle of Dogs is a comic romp, a real departure for this author. It centres around a couple of characters from past books--police chief Judy Hammer and reporter-turned-cop Andy Brazil of
Hornet's Nest and
Southern Cross--but the plot, style and tone will remind you more of
Carl Hiaasen's dark comedies.
The madcap doings get underway when the addled, nearly blind governor of Virginia confusedly launches a speed-trap program on isolated Tangier Island, whose prickly, eccentric residents promptly attempt secession. Cornwell adeptly interweaves other crisscrossing plot lines involving a gang of street-stupid thugs gunning for Hammer and Brazil, an angel-faced serial killer, a kidnapped dog and more. She does miss a few beats: the pacing sags during certain episodes, and at times the writing strains so hard for laughs that instead it draws winces. Nonetheless, Isle of Dogs is for the most part a funny, diverting read and a refreshing departure for Cornwell. --Nicholas H Allison, Amazon.com
--This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.
Review
After the Governor of Virginia orders speed traps to be installed on all streets the eccentric inhabitants of the island of Tangier threaten to secede, claiming their independence in that the first settlers there were from London's Isle of Dogs in 1607. Newly installed Virginia State Police Chief Judy Hammer and state trooper Andy Brazil find themselves at their wits end in this darkly comic romp.
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