Book review: Wavewalker

By Stella Duffy
Published by Serpent’s Tail

Synopsis: Saz has been hired by a mystery employer, the Wavewalker, to investigate the activities of Dr Maxwell North, an internationally acclaimed therapist, healer and guru. She starts by experiencing ‘The Process’ at a meeting in London, then insinuates herself into North’s life and home, not realising the extent to which North will go to protect the dark secrets of his past. Starting in ‘70s San Francisco, then crashing into her own ‘90s London life, the investigation propels Saz into dangerous territory and a highly combustible conclusion.
How did this book end up in my hands? I bought this book many years ago. I’m ashamed to say I can’t even remember when I bought it but long enough ago to have followed me through many house moves.
Was it a page-turner? Yes, every twist in the plot was completely unexpected – right to the very end.

Having read the synopsis, did the book meet my expectations? Yes. The story was well developed, the characters engaging and the different locations added an interesting touch to an already interesting detective story. I am not a fan, however, of the numerous sex scenes, which I didn’t find necessary to the plot. I am all for giving visibility to lesbians in film and literature but it felt forced sometimes, a little like a caricature.

Did I like the ending? I don’t want to give too much away but – despite it not being a pleasant ending per se – it was indeed fitting to the story.

Did the book leave me with unanswered questions? No, once you reach the last page all loose ends are nicely tied up and the story comes to a satisfactory conclusion.

Three words to describe it. Uneasy. Compelling. Humorous.

Do I like the cover? This cover makes me feel uneasy every time I look at it but that’s what it is supposed to do so I can’t say it’s not served its purpose.

Have I read any other books by the same author? I have read the first book in the Saz Martin series, Calendar Girl, which I also greatly enjoyed.

Will I want to read other books by the same author? Yes. The third book in the Saz Martin series, Beneath the Blonde, is waiting on my shelves. I do like to take a break from book series though so I won’t be reading it too soon.

Will I be recommending this book? Yes, definitely. Saz is a very likeable character and, while being an engaging crime book, I like the humorous voice in which it is narrated.

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