02 Dark Hollow by John Connolly


== Plot synopsis ==
This is the second novel in the Charlie Parker series.
Charlie Parker is a former NYPD cop turned private detective. In the first novel we learnt that his wife and daughter were murdered by a serial killer.
In this novel, a client of his is accused of murder and then his young wife and child are brutally murdered. With the client on the run, Parker has no answers. Did the client kill his own wife and child and the other people?
Parker investigates and sets out to track down his prime suspect and find out what is going on. However, someone else is tracking both of them. As the bodies pile up, crimes from the distant past and present intermingle as he comes face to face with evil incarnate.
The case turns out to be more personal than he could ever have imagined . . .


== My thoughts ==
This novel isn't really that easy to summarise but I did like it. It drew me in from the start and kept me reading. You are never sure who the killer(s) are right till the end.
I like the way the author is able to use language in a very poetic way in certain sections especially when Parker thinks he is seeing the ghosts of his dead wife and child. The author is also able to describe scenes in great detail and in such a way that you are able to easily picture them in your mind. I found certain images quite disturbing though, for example there's one part in the novel where he describes someone discovering some decomposing bodies coated with flies. I wouldn't recommend you read this while you are eating or if you have a weak stomach.


You also get to learn a bit more about Parker in this novel and his past including about his grandfather which helps to develop his character. I would recommend you start by reading the first novel in this series (Every Dead Thing) so you are familiar with his back-story and so you can understand why he acts in the way he does.


== Audio narration and availability ==
This was narrated by Jeff Harding. I didn't like his voice which I found a bit too emotionless but I kept listening due to the gripping plot.
This is available from the Isis Publishing web site (www.isis-publishing.co.uk). It is currently selling for £32.49 which is for the audio CD version. I would recommend you pick this up from your local library if possible.


== Summary and recommendation ==
I give this 4 stars. I liked the themes it explores like redemption and the nature of evil. It is also an intricate and well crafted mystery novel, that keeps you guessing - The pieces of the puzzle don't come together right till the end.