Dead Letters
Dead Letters by Jane Haddam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It was with trepidation and yes, a little irritation, that I started reading Jane Haddam’s new novel.
Those of us who have loved Haddam’s Gregor Demarkian series were furious with the last installment. I won’t go into detail, but be forewarned: if you haven’t read the series, start from the beginning, enjoy it all–and DO NOT read the last one.
Okay, on to Dead Letters.
Jane Haddam has always excelled at inner dialogue of her characters. This is ultimately how we get to know everyone in the story. Physical descriptions are minor, which some may not like; but, for me it allows the reader to create their own visual representation.
For example, the main protagonist, Georgia, is drawn with a very light brush. We have very few descriptors of her, other than her being short. We know that the new police chief is very tall, and we know that one of the suspects is also tall. Other than that, the reader is pretty much on their own.
This novel introduces a pet dog, which helps develop Georgia’s character. For instance, the way she immediately bonds with and takes care of the stray animal tells us a lot about her personality. It tells us more about her than a detailed physical description ever would.
Haddam is wonderful at describing what it’s like to live in a small town–or, in an insular neighborhood in a larger town or city. Her metier is in creating characters that just don’t fit the mold that society expects of them.
Georgia is a perfect example. She grew up in the same neighborhood where most of the action takes place. But, she left for college and a career. Therefore, she is both an insider looking out as well as an outsider looking in. This gives her a unique perspective, enabling her to ultimately see through the smoke and mirrors created by the murderer.
Those who have read and loved Haddam’s Gregor Demarkian series will right away be surprised with the point of view change. Demarkian novels were third person, but this novel is first person. I admire the change, as it gives the reader completely different access to the story.
Haddam novels include quite a bit of her own thoughts about society, politics and culture, and this is no exception. A number of characters, through their thoughts or dialogue, mini-rant about a variety of topics. I find this style, done with Haddam’s wry humor, to be really enjoyable. She is spot on with her commentary; but maybe that’s because I tend to agree with her rants!
The mystery was interesting, although I felt there was one major point not explained that could have prevented the murderer for carrying out the moving of the body. But the motives were believable and the slight twist ending was something I should have seen coming but didn’t.
Dead Letters is a really good first in series. I hope Haddam continues to hone her main character. I also would enjoy seeing more of the new police chief. Fingers crossed that Haddam tightens up the execution of the murder and brings us more depth of character.
Final note: I read this as an ebook and there were significant errors that an editor should have caught, one in particular that if you didn’t overlook changed the meaning of an entire portion of the story.
