Even Dogs in the Wild (A Rebus Novel, 20)

Dive into the gripping world of Edinburgh crime with Ian Rankin's "Even Dogs in the Wild," the 20th thrilling installment in the beloved Inspector Rebus series. This paperback edition, a reprint from Back Bay Books, delivers 368 pages of suspense, intrigue, and the complex relationships that define Rankin's iconic characters. Published in 2016, this novel weaves together seemingly disparate threads of murder, political maneuvering, and long-buried secrets, forcing Rebus and his colleagues to confront the darkest corners of human nature. John Rebus, reluctantly retired and struggling to adjust to civilian life, finds himself drawn back into the murky world he knows best. Detective Inspector Siobhan Clarke is facing immense pressure as she investigates the perplexing death of David Minton, a senior government prosecutor. The circumstances are suspicious: a supposed robbery with nothing of value missing. The only clue is a cryptic note left at the scene, hinting at a deeper conspiracy. Meanwhile, Malcolm Fox, ostracized within the police force due to his past in Complaints, feels sidelined and underutilized. Assigned to a mundane surveillance detail, he sees the Minton case as a chance to prove himself and regain his colleagues' trust. He offers his assistance to Clarke, eager to put his skills to good use. Adding another layer of complexity, Rebus receives a desperate plea from an unexpected source: his long-time nemesis, "Big Ger" Cafferty. The notorious gangster is shaken after a near-miss assassination attempt, complete with a threatening note identical to the one found at Minton's home. Cafferty, for all his criminal dealings, is genuinely terrified and trusts only Rebus to uncover who wants him dead. As Clarke, Fox, and Rebus delve deeper into their respective investigations, they begin to realize the cases are intertwined. They uncover a web of connections that implicates Minton's influential friends in a shocking, decades-old crime. The past refuses to stay buried, and the consequences threaten to shatter the fragile peace of Edinburgh's underworld and the corridors of power. "Even Dogs in the Wild" is a masterclass in police procedural, showcasing Rankin's talent for crafting intricate plots, morally ambiguous characters, and a palpable sense of place. The novel expertly explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, redemption, and the corrupting influence of power. Rebus, despite his flaws and his troubled past, remains a compelling and relatable figure, driven by a strong sense of justice and a deep understanding of the criminal mind. This is not just a whodunit; it's a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of morality and the enduring legacy of past actions. Whether you're a long-time Rebus fan or a newcomer to the series, "Even Dogs in the Wild" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates intelligent, suspenseful crime fiction. Expect twists, turns, and a satisfying resolution that will leave you pondering the nature of good and evil long after you've turned the final page.