Carl's Reviews > The Skull Mantra
The Skull Mantra (Inspector Shan, #1)
by
by

I'm being generous in giving this 3 stars. In a way, it reminded me of a Tony Hillerman book: a body found in mysterious circumstances, which can only be explained by delving into the native culture/religion, which is at odds with the modern, conquering culture, so someone must bridge that gap to understand, thus find, the killer(s). Add a remote, beautiful, exotic location, an intricate plot, and you may have a great book.
The main problem with this book was the overly intricate and dense plot, making it hard to follow and figure out just what was going on. I don't want to take notes when reading a mystery. I should know why the investigator is going somewhere and why he needs to talk to someone.
Additionally, the author beats you over the head with the injustices of the Chinese system of government and justice, especially as applied to the subjugated Tibetans.
I almost gave up on the book a few times, and finally, with about a third or less left, just opened up randomly toward the end, so I could find whatever resolution there would be. Haven't gone back to the parts I missed; doubt I will.
The main problem with this book was the overly intricate and dense plot, making it hard to follow and figure out just what was going on. I don't want to take notes when reading a mystery. I should know why the investigator is going somewhere and why he needs to talk to someone.
Additionally, the author beats you over the head with the injustices of the Chinese system of government and justice, especially as applied to the subjugated Tibetans.
I almost gave up on the book a few times, and finally, with about a third or less left, just opened up randomly toward the end, so I could find whatever resolution there would be. Haven't gone back to the parts I missed; doubt I will.
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Reading Progress
Started Reading
September 15, 2009
–
Finished Reading
September 21, 2009
– Shelved