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Jasmine Sharp and Catherine McLeod #3
Flesh Wounds
Bred in the Bone is the stunning third novel in Brookmyre’s series featuring private investigator Jasmine Sharp and Detective Superintendent Catherine McLeod. Set in the disturbing underworld of Glasgow—a place where countless old scores are still waiting to be settled, and where everyone knows everyone else—Bred in the Bone is a masterful mystery novel that will appeal to readers of Denise Mina, Val McDermid, and Ian Rankin.
Private investigator Jasmine Sharp's father was murdered before she was born, and her mother went to self-sacrificing lengths in order to shield her from the world in which he moved. Since her mother's death, all she has been able to learn is his first name—and that only through a strange bond she has forged with the man who killed him: Glen Fallan. But when Fallan is arrested for the murder of a criminal her mother knew since childhood, Jasmine is finally forced to enter his domain: a place where violence is a way of life and vengeance spans generations.
Detective Superintendent Catherine McLeod has one major Glaswegian gangster in the mortuary and another in the cells for killing him - which ought to be cause for celebration. Catherine is not smiling, however. From the moment she discovered a symbol daubed on the victim's head, she has understood that this case is far more dangerous than it appears on the surface, something that could threaten her family and end her career.
As one battles her demons and the other chases her ghosts, these two very different detectives will ultimately confront the secrets that have entangled both of their fates since before Jasmine was even born.
Private investigator Jasmine Sharp's father was murdered before she was born, and her mother went to self-sacrificing lengths in order to shield her from the world in which he moved. Since her mother's death, all she has been able to learn is his first name—and that only through a strange bond she has forged with the man who killed him: Glen Fallan. But when Fallan is arrested for the murder of a criminal her mother knew since childhood, Jasmine is finally forced to enter his domain: a place where violence is a way of life and vengeance spans generations.
Detective Superintendent Catherine McLeod has one major Glaswegian gangster in the mortuary and another in the cells for killing him - which ought to be cause for celebration. Catherine is not smiling, however. From the moment she discovered a symbol daubed on the victim's head, she has understood that this case is far more dangerous than it appears on the surface, something that could threaten her family and end her career.
As one battles her demons and the other chases her ghosts, these two very different detectives will ultimately confront the secrets that have entangled both of their fates since before Jasmine was even born.
407 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2013
About the author
Christopher Brookmyre
37 books1,443 followersChristopher Brookmyre is a Scottish novelist whose novels mix politics, social comment and action with a strong narrative. He has been referred to as a Tartan Noir author. His debut novel was Quite Ugly One Morning, and subsequent works have included One Fine Day in the Middle of the Night, which he said "was just the sort of book he needed to write before he turned 30", and All Fun and Games until Somebody Loses an Eye (2005).
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December 20, 2014
“Beware the fury of a patient man.”
----John Dryden, an English poet, literary critic, translator, and playwright who became Poet Laureate in 1668.
Christopher Brookmyre, a Scottish best-selling novelist, spun an astounding tale portraying the deepest, darkest corners in the Glasgow crime world in his latest book, Flesh Wounds.
Synopsis:
Private investigator Jasmine Sharp's father was murdered before she was born, and her mother went to self-sacrificing lengths in order to shield her from the world in which he moved. Since her mother's death, all she has been able to learn is his first name - and that only through a strange bond she has forged with the man who killed him.
The biggest thug of Glasgow murdered in a car wash inside his own car and the CCTV footage reveals Glen Fallan as the killer. Soon Glen Fallan is behind the bars. So what is the mystery? Sounds like story ends over here. However, this is just the beginning. Jasmine Sharp, the PI of Glasgow, has a history with Glen Fallan and according to her Glen couldn't be the killer. Enter DC Catherine McLeod who investigates the mystery behind Fallan's motive, mostly the mysterious sign left on the dead man's head. So, as McLeod prepares to cover up her past, Jasmine soon plunges into the untold mysteries of her past, thereby venturing into the forbidden lands of Glasgow under world.
Well, this is the first time, I am reading any Brookmyre novel, so I had no idea that Flesh wounds is a part of a series based on Sharp/McLeod/Fallan. However, it was no trouble for me to read Flesh Wounds as a standalone. The author has skillfully bared the stories of Sharp and Fallan's past in flashes just at the right moments. The author tried to show us how past demons can claw us if they are not put to rest at the right times. Both Mc Leod and Sharp are the two strong characters of this book. As the story progressed, the more we get to know about Sharp and McLeod's characters with depth.
The narration is very strong, ultimately gripping! The moment I started reading, I found an inevitable attraction with the narrative style of the author. The author brought out the dark satire underlying in the plot quite brilliantly. The story unfolded in flashbacks. As the investigation progressed, we eventually see the underlying past behind each find. The author laid out the violence intricately and quite vividly.
Since the mystery is based on an untold past misdoings, so there was no mystery, the past itself being the mystery. Both McLeod and Sharp are flawed characters, trying to come to terms with their devastating past, thus unlocking the key behind this murder. Hence, Flesh Wounds is an engaging read that will arrest your mind and soul until its very end.
Verdict: Christopher Brookmyre is one of the best Scottish crime author, so do not give this book a miss.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Christopher Brookmyre, for giving me the opportunity to read and review his book.
----John Dryden, an English poet, literary critic, translator, and playwright who became Poet Laureate in 1668.
Christopher Brookmyre, a Scottish best-selling novelist, spun an astounding tale portraying the deepest, darkest corners in the Glasgow crime world in his latest book, Flesh Wounds.
Synopsis:
Private investigator Jasmine Sharp's father was murdered before she was born, and her mother went to self-sacrificing lengths in order to shield her from the world in which he moved. Since her mother's death, all she has been able to learn is his first name - and that only through a strange bond she has forged with the man who killed him.
The biggest thug of Glasgow murdered in a car wash inside his own car and the CCTV footage reveals Glen Fallan as the killer. Soon Glen Fallan is behind the bars. So what is the mystery? Sounds like story ends over here. However, this is just the beginning. Jasmine Sharp, the PI of Glasgow, has a history with Glen Fallan and according to her Glen couldn't be the killer. Enter DC Catherine McLeod who investigates the mystery behind Fallan's motive, mostly the mysterious sign left on the dead man's head. So, as McLeod prepares to cover up her past, Jasmine soon plunges into the untold mysteries of her past, thereby venturing into the forbidden lands of Glasgow under world.
Well, this is the first time, I am reading any Brookmyre novel, so I had no idea that Flesh wounds is a part of a series based on Sharp/McLeod/Fallan. However, it was no trouble for me to read Flesh Wounds as a standalone. The author has skillfully bared the stories of Sharp and Fallan's past in flashes just at the right moments. The author tried to show us how past demons can claw us if they are not put to rest at the right times. Both Mc Leod and Sharp are the two strong characters of this book. As the story progressed, the more we get to know about Sharp and McLeod's characters with depth.
The narration is very strong, ultimately gripping! The moment I started reading, I found an inevitable attraction with the narrative style of the author. The author brought out the dark satire underlying in the plot quite brilliantly. The story unfolded in flashbacks. As the investigation progressed, we eventually see the underlying past behind each find. The author laid out the violence intricately and quite vividly.
Since the mystery is based on an untold past misdoings, so there was no mystery, the past itself being the mystery. Both McLeod and Sharp are flawed characters, trying to come to terms with their devastating past, thus unlocking the key behind this murder. Hence, Flesh Wounds is an engaging read that will arrest your mind and soul until its very end.
Verdict: Christopher Brookmyre is one of the best Scottish crime author, so do not give this book a miss.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Christopher Brookmyre, for giving me the opportunity to read and review his book.
June 17, 2021
FLESH WOUNDS is the third and final book in the Jasmine Sharp/Catherine McLeod series by Chris Brookmyre. It can be read as a stand-alone, although reading it after the two previous books in the series will provide a much richer experience.
It was briefly published, several years ago, under the title “Bred in the Bone” in the U.S., although it was always titled FLESH WOUNDS in the U.K., Australia, and Canada. And now, it is being sold as well under the title “Flesh Wounds” by Amazon in the U.S.
From its very beginning, it is a high-octane story, beginning with the murder of a Glasgow gangster, and the action never stops. It is a mystery as well as a thriller; not only is there the gangster’s murder to solve, but as the story progresses, the murder of a young woman 25 years earlier starts to looks like it is tangentially connected to the gangster’s murder.
It partially falls into the category of police procedural, as a substantial portion is concerned with the investigation of DS McLead and her team, particularly DC Thompson (aka Beano), to unravel the mystery. But private detective Jasmine Sharp is also working independently on the case after Fallan — a former gangster and Jasmine’s friend — is charged and imprisoned for the initial murder.
The story also describes how psychological oppressions that occurred in childhood can affect past and current life choices. The lives of both McLeod and Fallan were invaded by gangsters when they were teenagers. Each responded to these invasions in different ways, but their responses still haunt them.
I was lucky to be able to read all three books within a short period of time. Thus, I can view the overarching themes.
First and foremost, the series describes the psychological and emotional growth that occurs as people face, and overcome, adversity. Jasmine Sharp is the best example of showing how people can become stronger. At the beginning of the first book, “Where the Bodies are Buried”, she was inept, hesitant, and fearful as a private detective apprenticing under her Uncle Jim. The second book, “When the Devil Drives”, shows her becoming more competent about her detective skills and more comfortable working with Fallan, a dangerous man. FLESH WOUNDS completes her transformation into a strong (and dangerous) woman.
Both McLeod and Fallan were transformed by their experiences with adversity, although their changes occurred prior to the beginning of the series and is shown only in flashbacks in “Flesh Wounds”. Even Beano grows as a detective as the series progresses.
The series is also about bent cops and their deals with the devil — the devil being personified by Glasgow gangsters who buy their services. This was true in the first and third books in the series, but not in the second; consequently, the second book is the weakest one in the series.
But FLESH WOUNDS, the third book in the series, is the best of all three. Very complex. Very satisfying. I strongly recommend it as one of Brookmyre’s best.
It was briefly published, several years ago, under the title “Bred in the Bone” in the U.S., although it was always titled FLESH WOUNDS in the U.K., Australia, and Canada. And now, it is being sold as well under the title “Flesh Wounds” by Amazon in the U.S.
From its very beginning, it is a high-octane story, beginning with the murder of a Glasgow gangster, and the action never stops. It is a mystery as well as a thriller; not only is there the gangster’s murder to solve, but as the story progresses, the murder of a young woman 25 years earlier starts to looks like it is tangentially connected to the gangster’s murder.
It partially falls into the category of police procedural, as a substantial portion is concerned with the investigation of DS McLead and her team, particularly DC Thompson (aka Beano), to unravel the mystery. But private detective Jasmine Sharp is also working independently on the case after Fallan — a former gangster and Jasmine’s friend — is charged and imprisoned for the initial murder.
The story also describes how psychological oppressions that occurred in childhood can affect past and current life choices. The lives of both McLeod and Fallan were invaded by gangsters when they were teenagers. Each responded to these invasions in different ways, but their responses still haunt them.
I was lucky to be able to read all three books within a short period of time. Thus, I can view the overarching themes.
First and foremost, the series describes the psychological and emotional growth that occurs as people face, and overcome, adversity. Jasmine Sharp is the best example of showing how people can become stronger. At the beginning of the first book, “Where the Bodies are Buried”, she was inept, hesitant, and fearful as a private detective apprenticing under her Uncle Jim. The second book, “When the Devil Drives”, shows her becoming more competent about her detective skills and more comfortable working with Fallan, a dangerous man. FLESH WOUNDS completes her transformation into a strong (and dangerous) woman.
Both McLeod and Fallan were transformed by their experiences with adversity, although their changes occurred prior to the beginning of the series and is shown only in flashbacks in “Flesh Wounds”. Even Beano grows as a detective as the series progresses.
The series is also about bent cops and their deals with the devil — the devil being personified by Glasgow gangsters who buy their services. This was true in the first and third books in the series, but not in the second; consequently, the second book is the weakest one in the series.
But FLESH WOUNDS, the third book in the series, is the best of all three. Very complex. Very satisfying. I strongly recommend it as one of Brookmyre’s best.
November 10, 2014
Flesh Wounds – Brilliant Glasgow Thriller
Private investigator Jasmine Sharp in Flesh Wounds returns in the final book of the Sharp Trilogy written by Chris Brookmyre. Brookmyre’s use of the Glaswegian really brings home the Glasgow setting and at the same time this book ties up all the loose ends, in a bloody violent ending. This is an example of the Glasgow Underworld clashing with the police and the occasional bent copper a shine example of the Glasgow crime thriller.
Jasmine Sharp is still searching for who her father may be and as her mother is dead she is searching all the people that knew her when she was a lot younger. This will drag her real rather in to the midst of the murder investigation being conducted by the Polis into the execution of gangland boss Stevie Fullerton at one of his businesses.
Jasmine does not realise that this murder will drag a lot of history up not only her family history but that of the underworld, bent police and cover ups and a wrongly convicted person in a murder. The murder of Julie Muir 25 years earlier officially had been solved but during this case everything seems to collapse especially when people start searching for the paperwork from the case. Officers are threatened to look the other way and close the case as quickly as possible.
Detective Superintendent Catherine McLeod is the senior investigating officer who is also living in fear during the investigation that her past may come out. We see flashbacks of what McLeod has to hide and what it means to her and her family. The biggest question is will that history come out in the light of day.
What we do see in this thriller is an excellent interaction of all the characters who are strong use of the Glasgow Patter which you can hear them speak. Through the use of language we can explore the darker side of Glasgow and that language brings forth some brilliant imagery, even more so if you know Glasgow.
Flesh Wounds is an excellent conclusion to the Jasmine Sharp trilogy where we get the answers to the questions she has put to herself. At the same time we are sold a pup before finding out at the end the real truth as reader and Sharp can see what has been hidden in plain sight all the time. Brilliant novel by an excellent writer well worth reading and you will not regret it.
Private investigator Jasmine Sharp in Flesh Wounds returns in the final book of the Sharp Trilogy written by Chris Brookmyre. Brookmyre’s use of the Glaswegian really brings home the Glasgow setting and at the same time this book ties up all the loose ends, in a bloody violent ending. This is an example of the Glasgow Underworld clashing with the police and the occasional bent copper a shine example of the Glasgow crime thriller.
Jasmine Sharp is still searching for who her father may be and as her mother is dead she is searching all the people that knew her when she was a lot younger. This will drag her real rather in to the midst of the murder investigation being conducted by the Polis into the execution of gangland boss Stevie Fullerton at one of his businesses.
Jasmine does not realise that this murder will drag a lot of history up not only her family history but that of the underworld, bent police and cover ups and a wrongly convicted person in a murder. The murder of Julie Muir 25 years earlier officially had been solved but during this case everything seems to collapse especially when people start searching for the paperwork from the case. Officers are threatened to look the other way and close the case as quickly as possible.
Detective Superintendent Catherine McLeod is the senior investigating officer who is also living in fear during the investigation that her past may come out. We see flashbacks of what McLeod has to hide and what it means to her and her family. The biggest question is will that history come out in the light of day.
What we do see in this thriller is an excellent interaction of all the characters who are strong use of the Glasgow Patter which you can hear them speak. Through the use of language we can explore the darker side of Glasgow and that language brings forth some brilliant imagery, even more so if you know Glasgow.
Flesh Wounds is an excellent conclusion to the Jasmine Sharp trilogy where we get the answers to the questions she has put to herself. At the same time we are sold a pup before finding out at the end the real truth as reader and Sharp can see what has been hidden in plain sight all the time. Brilliant novel by an excellent writer well worth reading and you will not regret it.
August 18, 2022
When I began the Jasmine Sharp series, I seriously doubted that I would finish them, let alone give this 5 stars. It feels like Brookmyre has written the previous two novels simply to set this up.
I won't give anything away, which makes it hard to review in any depth, but suffice to say this is simply fantastic. I am a big fan of Brookmyre and I think it is fair to say that his usual dark humour is not particularly evident in this book (and indeed the series). However, this does not detract in the slightest. I was left guessing until the end, and when I thought I had figured something out, it would turn out to be a minor development and you then get socked in the face by what is really happening. Brookmyre is an absolute master of suspense, timing and deception.
Whilst I consider this to be the best of the Jasmine Sharp novels, you have to read the preceding two for it to have the necessary impact. Personally I found the first one a slog, and Jasmine to be deeply irritating but stick with it because it is definitely worth it.
I won't give anything away, which makes it hard to review in any depth, but suffice to say this is simply fantastic. I am a big fan of Brookmyre and I think it is fair to say that his usual dark humour is not particularly evident in this book (and indeed the series). However, this does not detract in the slightest. I was left guessing until the end, and when I thought I had figured something out, it would turn out to be a minor development and you then get socked in the face by what is really happening. Brookmyre is an absolute master of suspense, timing and deception.
Whilst I consider this to be the best of the Jasmine Sharp novels, you have to read the preceding two for it to have the necessary impact. Personally I found the first one a slog, and Jasmine to be deeply irritating but stick with it because it is definitely worth it.
February 1, 2014
Bred in the Bone is an intense police procedural that is complex, intelligent, puzzling, and riveting.
Part of a series featuring private investigator Jasmine Sharp and Detective Superintendent Catherine McLeod, Bred in the Bone functions as a stand-alone, but makes me want to read the previous books for some back story.
The story is revealed in alternating chapters about Jasmine Sharp, Catherine McLeod, and a young girl whose name is not given. "Past is prologue" to current events.
Information is divulged little by little, keeping the reader in suspense and continuous speculation. This is so skillfully done that you feel as if you are the fly on the wall, observing behaviors and conversations, accumulating information. It isn't so much the use of red herrings, as the lack of information or awareness required to fully evaluate. You get the knowledge when the characters do, and you have more than one character to rely on, yet solving this mystery necessitates following the pace set by the author until the conclusion.
The beginning is a bit slow, but once the initial chapter is out of the way, the novel moves quickly from one character to another as both Catherine McLeod and Jasmine Sharp investigate the murder for different reasons.
Setting is uniquely important in some novels, and the Glasgow underworld is essential to the success of Bred in the Bone. Brookmyre's Glasgow is dark enough, but not as dark as Denise Mina's Glasgow. Brookmyre manages to present the sinister world of Glasgow's criminal society with enough detail to make it abhorrent, but he is also able to put human faces on even the villains.
While it is apparent that some of the characters and situations have been introduced in the previous novels, the author provides enough information for clarity in subtle ways, avoiding long information dumps. A skillful writer, Mr. Brookmyre leads without condescension--keeping the reader guessing, putting together facts and circumstances, and "participating" in the situations is no minor feat.
The novel has side stories that must unite for a clear picture, but the author deftly steers the reader through the details, hints, and innuendos.
Highly recommended.
Read in November, 2013. Blog post scheduled for May 14, 2014.
NetGalley/Grove Atlantic
Crime/Police Procedural. May, 2014. Print version: 416 pages.
Part of a series featuring private investigator Jasmine Sharp and Detective Superintendent Catherine McLeod, Bred in the Bone functions as a stand-alone, but makes me want to read the previous books for some back story.
The story is revealed in alternating chapters about Jasmine Sharp, Catherine McLeod, and a young girl whose name is not given. "Past is prologue" to current events.
Information is divulged little by little, keeping the reader in suspense and continuous speculation. This is so skillfully done that you feel as if you are the fly on the wall, observing behaviors and conversations, accumulating information. It isn't so much the use of red herrings, as the lack of information or awareness required to fully evaluate. You get the knowledge when the characters do, and you have more than one character to rely on, yet solving this mystery necessitates following the pace set by the author until the conclusion.
The beginning is a bit slow, but once the initial chapter is out of the way, the novel moves quickly from one character to another as both Catherine McLeod and Jasmine Sharp investigate the murder for different reasons.
Setting is uniquely important in some novels, and the Glasgow underworld is essential to the success of Bred in the Bone. Brookmyre's Glasgow is dark enough, but not as dark as Denise Mina's Glasgow. Brookmyre manages to present the sinister world of Glasgow's criminal society with enough detail to make it abhorrent, but he is also able to put human faces on even the villains.
While it is apparent that some of the characters and situations have been introduced in the previous novels, the author provides enough information for clarity in subtle ways, avoiding long information dumps. A skillful writer, Mr. Brookmyre leads without condescension--keeping the reader guessing, putting together facts and circumstances, and "participating" in the situations is no minor feat.
The novel has side stories that must unite for a clear picture, but the author deftly steers the reader through the details, hints, and innuendos.
Highly recommended.
Read in November, 2013. Blog post scheduled for May 14, 2014.
NetGalley/Grove Atlantic
Crime/Police Procedural. May, 2014. Print version: 416 pages.
August 7, 2013
I am really enjoying Chris(topher) Brookmyre's new(ish) Glasgow crime series - the previous volumes are Where The Bodies Are Buried and When The Devil Drives. These books all feature ex-actress-turned-private-investigator Jasmine Sharp, Detective Superintendant Catherine McLeod and reformed (?) Glasgow hard man Glen Fallan. The earlier books introduced Sharp, in particular: this one tells us a bit more about the other two (though Sharp also has some great scenes). In flashbacks, we see Fallan as an apprentice gangster, recruited and rising through the ranks, and learn why McLeod loathes him so deeply.
Again, this book concerns a mystery raked up from the past, as Fallan is arrested almost red handed for the murder of the man who evidently didn't kill him all those years ago - but was previously thought to have. (Not a spoiler: it's in the blurb). It isn't the only one: the book is full of mysteries like that - nothing, whether past crimes or family relationships, is quite what it seems. Fallan, Sharp and McLeod need to find answers for the sake of their careers, families - and lives.
The central characters are portrayed believably. Their relationships have developed through the series. There has been cooperation, but it's been forced cooperation and they are wary of each other - it's fun to see them badmouthing each other as they go about their business. McLeod makes a convincing senior "polis": we hear again about that "dark place" she sometimes goes to, but she's not a clichéd burned our cop with a wrecked home life. "Flesh Wounds" is very much a summation of the series so far - there are satisfying answers to all or most of the questions that hung over the earlier books, but they aren't allowed to hold up a knotty, complicated plot with plenty of twists I didn't see coming. There are a couple of well observed subplots as well - a rather sweet little love story, and one showing the heartbreaking result of prejudice and corruption. Pay close attention to all the details: everything counts, in the end.
The earlier books seem to have divided Brookmyre's fans (though perhaps less so than Pandaemonium and Bedlam). That's a pity as they're very good as being what they are. I think this book is the best of the three, by some way. I hope Brookmyre writes more, though I can see why he might think this is a good place to stop.
Again, this book concerns a mystery raked up from the past, as Fallan is arrested almost red handed for the murder of the man who evidently didn't kill him all those years ago - but was previously thought to have. (Not a spoiler: it's in the blurb). It isn't the only one: the book is full of mysteries like that - nothing, whether past crimes or family relationships, is quite what it seems. Fallan, Sharp and McLeod need to find answers for the sake of their careers, families - and lives.
The central characters are portrayed believably. Their relationships have developed through the series. There has been cooperation, but it's been forced cooperation and they are wary of each other - it's fun to see them badmouthing each other as they go about their business. McLeod makes a convincing senior "polis": we hear again about that "dark place" she sometimes goes to, but she's not a clichéd burned our cop with a wrecked home life. "Flesh Wounds" is very much a summation of the series so far - there are satisfying answers to all or most of the questions that hung over the earlier books, but they aren't allowed to hold up a knotty, complicated plot with plenty of twists I didn't see coming. There are a couple of well observed subplots as well - a rather sweet little love story, and one showing the heartbreaking result of prejudice and corruption. Pay close attention to all the details: everything counts, in the end.
The earlier books seem to have divided Brookmyre's fans (though perhaps less so than Pandaemonium and Bedlam). That's a pity as they're very good as being what they are. I think this book is the best of the three, by some way. I hope Brookmyre writes more, though I can see why he might think this is a good place to stop.
March 22, 2017
Flesh Wounds (aka Bred in the Bone) is the third in the Jasmine Sharp series from Scottish author Christopher Brookmyre. One of those authors that is on the "to be purchased immediately" list, under the category "I'm starting to fret about the time it's taking to get to this one". Welded on fan needless to say.
The Jasmine Sharp series is a bit different from some of Brookmyre's more surreal / out there offerings. Although there's always plenty of cutting humour, dry observation and more than a bit of dragging readers down dark alleys at unexpected times.
This is a very good series. It bounces the reader up and down through Jasmine Sharp's life and times, just as she's riding the shockwaves herself. It will work better if you read at least one of the earlier books before embarking on this one, as there's a lot of build up in explaining Sharp, her mother, her uncle, Fallan DS McLeod and just about everybody else that makes an appearance here. To say nothing of how an aspiring actress ended up as a PI.
These does seem to have been a bit of quibbling about the decidedly different - almost mainstream approach - that Brookmyre has taken in this series, which seems a bit unfair as this is extremely entertaining and engaging crime fiction - with a great central character to boot.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
The Jasmine Sharp series is a bit different from some of Brookmyre's more surreal / out there offerings. Although there's always plenty of cutting humour, dry observation and more than a bit of dragging readers down dark alleys at unexpected times.
This is a very good series. It bounces the reader up and down through Jasmine Sharp's life and times, just as she's riding the shockwaves herself. It will work better if you read at least one of the earlier books before embarking on this one, as there's a lot of build up in explaining Sharp, her mother, her uncle, Fallan DS McLeod and just about everybody else that makes an appearance here. To say nothing of how an aspiring actress ended up as a PI.
These does seem to have been a bit of quibbling about the decidedly different - almost mainstream approach - that Brookmyre has taken in this series, which seems a bit unfair as this is extremely entertaining and engaging crime fiction - with a great central character to boot.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
June 4, 2023
This book was the 3rd in the trilogy and my goodness it was so cleverly written to bring the 3 books together in a such a fantastic and pretty dramatic ending!
June 2, 2014
At first I was a bit worried about Brookmyre going "straight". The sense of fun, the still just about plausible plots, with great one liners meant that on form, they were the equivalent of the best popcorn films with a wise cracking, but not pantomime, cast of action heroes. He actually sends this up in personal favourite One Fine Day - but Lethal Weapon, Die Hard or the Rock could all be similar examples of big explosions and great one liners. But in one or two more recently he was heading towards those James Bonds where even Roger Moore was arching an eyebrow to the camera.
But did he need a Daniel Craig reboot? He works in the same 'world' as his Christopher books (referencing previous characters). And, well, yes.
This is the third, and it feels like this series is starting to hit form and he's finding his balance. Yes it's more 'real' nasty things can and do happen with more threat, it's all fairly plausible. Ironically for some authors going 'serious' there's probably far less gruesome violence than in his other books - but he uses that well to heighten the impact when it does happen. And while the standard execution shooting that starts the book is ten a penny in crime, he adds depth to the cast by having them consider their own levels of desensitisation to the violence, making the reader ask themselves some questions too.
Anyway, along with all this, he lightens up a bit after the more straightlaced beginning to the series, and lets some more one liners and jokes creep in. Which makes this an enjoyable read. He ties together plot lines from the previous books well to offer a semi conclusion to a loose trilogy, but leave room for more. Well plotted, with characters that are becoming more rounded as they develop (I enjoyed 'supporting cop' Beano being fleshed out in this book).
This is enjoyable, fun and a fairly satisfying read.
But did he need a Daniel Craig reboot? He works in the same 'world' as his Christopher books (referencing previous characters). And, well, yes.
This is the third, and it feels like this series is starting to hit form and he's finding his balance. Yes it's more 'real' nasty things can and do happen with more threat, it's all fairly plausible. Ironically for some authors going 'serious' there's probably far less gruesome violence than in his other books - but he uses that well to heighten the impact when it does happen. And while the standard execution shooting that starts the book is ten a penny in crime, he adds depth to the cast by having them consider their own levels of desensitisation to the violence, making the reader ask themselves some questions too.
Anyway, along with all this, he lightens up a bit after the more straightlaced beginning to the series, and lets some more one liners and jokes creep in. Which makes this an enjoyable read. He ties together plot lines from the previous books well to offer a semi conclusion to a loose trilogy, but leave room for more. Well plotted, with characters that are becoming more rounded as they develop (I enjoyed 'supporting cop' Beano being fleshed out in this book).
This is enjoyable, fun and a fairly satisfying read.
June 13, 2018
This is by far he best of the sharp investigations book. Still not as good as the parlabane novels but far more riveting than the last one. The twists and turns in the final act elevated the tension to the nth degree. And inspector mcleods back story added a fascinating new dimension. It s not often that you have the two heroines of the novel genuinely being justifiably antagonistic to each other. Genuinely a good read.
October 31, 2016
Can't help but think it missed out a chunk of what happened to Macleod after all this but I love these books. Jasmine is one of my favourite PIs, and ranks alongside Robin Ellacott.
I might have to start reading his Jack Parlabane novels to tide me over till the next Sharp investigations book is out.
I might have to start reading his Jack Parlabane novels to tide me over till the next Sharp investigations book is out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2013
Ahh, the annual Brookmyre. Where would we be with out it? Enjoyed this hugely compared to his last one (Bedlam) as I have been enjoying this loose trilogy set around his Glasgow gangster set-up. This flowed nicely and I devoured it quickly. Brookmyre on top form really, no more need be said.
August 24, 2013
He's back on form with this latest from the Jasmine, McLeod, Fallan series although I think he has probably now squeezed the last of the mileage out of "who is Jasmine's father". Lets see where he takes us next....
July 6, 2014
4.5 stars
Really enjoyed this gritty police drama set in Glasgow - doubly enjoyable listening to it on audio as it was beautifully read - love Scottish accents!
The plot was fulfilling and the characters complex - I will be checking out more in this series.
Really enjoyed this gritty police drama set in Glasgow - doubly enjoyable listening to it on audio as it was beautifully read - love Scottish accents!
The plot was fulfilling and the characters complex - I will be checking out more in this series.
October 21, 2013
Hurrah - back to classic Brookymre!!! Not his best, but pretty damn good....
December 17, 2017
* I liked this book so much that I am really cross with Christopher Brookmyre for not having written any more books in the series and am seriously considering writing to him to beg him to write more!
* My experience of reading Brookmyre’s books has gone through some peaks and troughs, starting with reading his early books years ago and finding them very funny, through a period where I read some books which I found a bit too politically preachy, to Flesh Wounds which really hit the mark for me.
* I really enjoyed the development of Jasmine’s character as she continued to be naive at times but has really begun to build her investigative nouse. Similarly, Catherine’s character development was intriguing. The wider cast worked amazingly well for me too - I would normally have found the number of characters difficult to follow, especially with my somewhat piecemeal reading habits, but Brookmyre picked out just the right amount of detail for me to make the characters memorable and interesting.
* The locations were well drawn and again places that I wanted to learn more about.
* The twists and turns of the plot and character development were really memorable - even when Brookmyre tricked me with hidden information, his timing of revealing the missing facts worked to pique my interest even further rather than frustrate me. I can imagine someone who is less open to going with the flow of a story being frustrated by some of the concealed information and Brookmyre’s move away from his often hilarious black humour, but for me it was brilliant and I will both be recommending this to others and looking out for more books by Brookmyre.
* My experience of reading Brookmyre’s books has gone through some peaks and troughs, starting with reading his early books years ago and finding them very funny, through a period where I read some books which I found a bit too politically preachy, to Flesh Wounds which really hit the mark for me.
* I really enjoyed the development of Jasmine’s character as she continued to be naive at times but has really begun to build her investigative nouse. Similarly, Catherine’s character development was intriguing. The wider cast worked amazingly well for me too - I would normally have found the number of characters difficult to follow, especially with my somewhat piecemeal reading habits, but Brookmyre picked out just the right amount of detail for me to make the characters memorable and interesting.
* The locations were well drawn and again places that I wanted to learn more about.
* The twists and turns of the plot and character development were really memorable - even when Brookmyre tricked me with hidden information, his timing of revealing the missing facts worked to pique my interest even further rather than frustrate me. I can imagine someone who is less open to going with the flow of a story being frustrated by some of the concealed information and Brookmyre’s move away from his often hilarious black humour, but for me it was brilliant and I will both be recommending this to others and looking out for more books by Brookmyre.
April 22, 2020
I do not enjoy writing reviews no matter how much I like or dislike books. But this absolute CRACKER has to be praised. Every book in this series was amazing and they all lead up to this masterpiece. If everything in the other books was not plotted to lead up to this resolution I will be equally impressed with the magic it took to tie up every disparate strand and hinted secret. My only fear is that now that near perfection has been achieved Mr. Brookmyre will not feel the need to continue this series. Please do not let this be so. I need more Sharp and McLeod. I was SO late to this party. Perhaps the forced isolation of COVID 19 can spark a renewed interest in these formidable female leads for the talented (yes, I am attempting to butter you up for a sequel!) writer.
I must also mention that I listened to these riveting thrillers on Audible and Hilary McLean was a fantastic voice actor. She really brought the characters to life for me. I will be seeking other projects of hers as well as Mr. Brookmyre’s other titles.
I can not recommend this entire series enough.
I must also mention that I listened to these riveting thrillers on Audible and Hilary McLean was a fantastic voice actor. She really brought the characters to life for me. I will be seeking other projects of hers as well as Mr. Brookmyre’s other titles.
I can not recommend this entire series enough.
June 28, 2017
"Bred in the Bone" is the third book in Brookmyre's series featuring actress-turned-PI Jasmine Sharp and Detective Superintendent Catherine McCleod. It may also be the concluding book, as secrets hinted at in the previous volumes are thrust into the open and the invisible web of connections between the sprawling cast of characters is made clear.
This sense of climax gives "Bred in the Bone" a lot of propulsive power - something it needs because the plot itself feels oddly flat and disjointed. It's possible that Brookmyre had too much to say and too many disparate threads to wrap up, resulting in a thriller that lacks the razor sharp focus of previous volumes.
But the true strength of the series - the excellent characterization - remains strong as ever. If "Bred in the Bone" is indeed the last book in this particular series, I'll feel content with the trilogy as a whole - and if another volume comes out in the future, I'll devour it as fast as I can.
This sense of climax gives "Bred in the Bone" a lot of propulsive power - something it needs because the plot itself feels oddly flat and disjointed. It's possible that Brookmyre had too much to say and too many disparate threads to wrap up, resulting in a thriller that lacks the razor sharp focus of previous volumes.
But the true strength of the series - the excellent characterization - remains strong as ever. If "Bred in the Bone" is indeed the last book in this particular series, I'll feel content with the trilogy as a whole - and if another volume comes out in the future, I'll devour it as fast as I can.
August 28, 2022
I'd only read one Chris Brookmyre previous to this (the superb and funny The Sacred Art of Stealing) and I was expecting something like that, but this was different.
Gripping (at times unputdownable) with brilliantly written, complex, dark female protagonists (he writes women very well), this book really keeps you on the edge of your seat. I was up till about one am yesterday, because I couldn't let go of it. The other thing about this is the way things that happen in the past (most of them about 25 years before) suddenly become vital.
My one quibble with it was that there were moments when it felt like a sequel, but then it absolutely didn't (all the loose ends from the past seem to have been tied up), so to read this is the third one in a series with Jasmine and Catherine in it now feels strange. I suspect that means I'm going to have to find the others and read them.
But I need my heart to stop racing first.
Gripping (at times unputdownable) with brilliantly written, complex, dark female protagonists (he writes women very well), this book really keeps you on the edge of your seat. I was up till about one am yesterday, because I couldn't let go of it. The other thing about this is the way things that happen in the past (most of them about 25 years before) suddenly become vital.
My one quibble with it was that there were moments when it felt like a sequel, but then it absolutely didn't (all the loose ends from the past seem to have been tied up), so to read this is the third one in a series with Jasmine and Catherine in it now feels strange. I suspect that means I'm going to have to find the others and read them.
But I need my heart to stop racing first.
January 19, 2018
Bred in the Bone knits up the loose threads from Christopher Brookmyres previous books -Where The Bodies Are Buried and When The Devil Drives. Jasmine Sharp, owner/operator of Sharp Investigations, finally discover who her father was. Detective Inspector Catherine McLeod's animosity towards former gang enforcer Glen Fallan is explained, as is an incident from her own past. The murder of gangland biggie, Stevie Fullerton is a "twofer," as it seeks to implicate Fallan as the killer. This book is set in the past as much as the present, as old vendettas, feuds, resentments and jealousies are exposed and dealt with. Glasgow crime lords are all about revenge, they never forget a slight or lack of respect from someone eager to encroach on their turf. To be more specific would ruin the suspense for other readers of this vivid, exciting, and ultimately satisfying book.
April 27, 2019
The Best Crime Book
I could not put this book down. Read it in days sometimes into the early morning. The characters so likeable and troubled. Each with their own problems. The investigation of the killing of Stevie Fullerton coupled with another crime 25 years ago. Jasmine Sharp being drawn in as a PI. Glen Fallon not appearing at first but accused of murder. Police Officers DS Catherine and DI Laura investigating the murder but dealing with corrupt police offices. Absolutely the best crime book I have read and I am a fan of Chris Brookmyre. I was sorry when I finished the book I do enjoyed it. I would give it 6 stars if I could. I hope their is another Jasmine Sharp book as the characters are so real. Would make a great t.v. drama as good as Line of Duty.
I could not put this book down. Read it in days sometimes into the early morning. The characters so likeable and troubled. Each with their own problems. The investigation of the killing of Stevie Fullerton coupled with another crime 25 years ago. Jasmine Sharp being drawn in as a PI. Glen Fallon not appearing at first but accused of murder. Police Officers DS Catherine and DI Laura investigating the murder but dealing with corrupt police offices. Absolutely the best crime book I have read and I am a fan of Chris Brookmyre. I was sorry when I finished the book I do enjoyed it. I would give it 6 stars if I could. I hope their is another Jasmine Sharp book as the characters are so real. Would make a great t.v. drama as good as Line of Duty.
July 17, 2024
The version I have just finished (I feel somewhat bereft as there are no more McLeod/Sharp books) was titled Flesh Wounds.
No difference, though, and I'm not gonna bore you with my opinions on the best detective (Glasgow Noir at least) trilogy I have read and am ever likely to read; there are plenty other reviews out there that will give you a flavour of this and the other books in the trilogy (Where the Devil Drives, and Where the Bodies ar Buried - make sur to read them in order!), the richness of the three main protagonists, so not just DS McLeod and Jasmine Sharp but Glen Fallan too, the intricate story and untangling of a complex yet fascinating Brookmyrean story thread (in all three books).
Thank you Chris Brookmyre, brilliant, simply brilliant.
No difference, though, and I'm not gonna bore you with my opinions on the best detective (Glasgow Noir at least) trilogy I have read and am ever likely to read; there are plenty other reviews out there that will give you a flavour of this and the other books in the trilogy (Where the Devil Drives, and Where the Bodies ar Buried - make sur to read them in order!), the richness of the three main protagonists, so not just DS McLeod and Jasmine Sharp but Glen Fallan too, the intricate story and untangling of a complex yet fascinating Brookmyrean story thread (in all three books).
Thank you Chris Brookmyre, brilliant, simply brilliant.
July 21, 2022
Christopher Brookmyre - Bred in the bone RR 56 of 84 - 11 7 22
Stupidly I have managed to read book 3 in a series first instead of starting with book 1. Thoroughly enjoyed it as a stand alone but wonder if I have diminished the experience I could have had if I'd got the right order. Other people seem to see the first 2 as a set up for this as a finale. Jasmine Sharp is the private investigator and Catherine McLoead is the DS and the whole story revolves round Glasgow organised crime but also fills in the backstory and links for these 2 main characters. I'd forgotten how slick Brookmyre can be.
Stupidly I have managed to read book 3 in a series first instead of starting with book 1. Thoroughly enjoyed it as a stand alone but wonder if I have diminished the experience I could have had if I'd got the right order. Other people seem to see the first 2 as a set up for this as a finale. Jasmine Sharp is the private investigator and Catherine McLoead is the DS and the whole story revolves round Glasgow organised crime but also fills in the backstory and links for these 2 main characters. I'd forgotten how slick Brookmyre can be.
April 3, 2019
A Jasmine Sharp book, although it could equally be about two of the other key players (Fallon & McCleod) in this magnificent series. When I finished this, I thought, that's it. That's THE best Chris Brookmyre book. Cannae top that, man! Then I realised I always think that when I finish one of his books. He never disappoints. Just when you think you know where the story is going, it zigs. Then zags. A dark (yet funny, darkly funny) tale of extortion, love, corruption, loyalty, betrayal, redemption and regret, this IS my favourite Chris Brookmyre book. Until I read the next one.
May 3, 2021
This is a good ending to the series, although I'm not sure why Brookmyre decided to stop after three books with this group. It seemed that sorting out Jasmine's father's identity and adding on to the staff at her agency would lead to some interesting plotlines. I continue to be disappointed in the lack of pages devoted to Catherine McLeod's character and her family. Brookmyre can write a great page-turner!
September 30, 2023
The third and final in his Jasmine Sharp and Catherine McLeod series. This follows on directly from When the Devil Drives and Where The Bodies Are Buried - and it’s worth reading them first for the character and story development and to make sense of a few references. With the context set, I found this an enjoyable and faster paced read and settled in to his usual cutting commentary, dark humour, and twists and turns. I’m a longtime fan and this is the sixteenth of his novels I’ve read.
October 8, 2017
Feel slightly guilty giving a 2 star rating as it might be my head just wasn't in the right space - I didn't even finish reading this book. I have loved all of the other Brookmyre books but just couldn't even slighlty get into this one. I'll maybe give it another go at some point but for now it can gtf
December 12, 2017
Chris Brookmyre has concocted a thoughtful twisty thriller with this book. Both main female leads (detective and P.I.) are strong and the equal of any of the male characters. However I would strongly recommend reading the two previous books in the series first as the three together make a cracking set.
January 2, 2022
( Format : Audiobook )
"Beware the vengeance of a patient man. "
Absolutely brilliant
Complex but so believable. Very good characters and characteriseation.
The narrator, Sarah Barron, has perfect pace, good intonation, individual voicing for the various protagonists and a very pleasant timbre and Scottish accent which is easy on the ear. An excellent performance which compliments the writing perfectly.
Great book.
"Beware the vengeance of a patient man. "
Absolutely brilliant
Complex but so believable. Very good characters and characteriseation.
The narrator, Sarah Barron, has perfect pace, good intonation, individual voicing for the various protagonists and a very pleasant timbre and Scottish accent which is easy on the ear. An excellent performance which compliments the writing perfectly.
Great book.
July 1, 2022
This is my favourite of the Jasmine Sharp books. While book two gives much of Jasmine's background, this one focuses more on what makes Catherine McLeod who she is. The subplots are artfully woven in to produce a deeply satisfying read. All the questions outstanding from the earlier books are also resolved, particularly who Glen Fallan really is. An excellent read.
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