This was the first John Banville novel that I’ve read, a random pick from a local charity shop. Despite the hugely tough subject matter, it was very well written and the lead character, Detective Inspector St John Strafford (first name pronounced Sinjun) is quite fascinating.
The book covers a snowy period in 1957, set in Ireland. DI Strafford is sent to a rural village to investigate the grisly murder of a local priest, Father Tom. His job is tough due to the strange Osbourne family who draw a veil over any clues that may help to track down the killer. His side kick Jenkins may have been onto something, but disappears. Meanwhile, Strafford must survive the terrible food at the big house or the freezing cold in the local pub where he is staying.
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