Tangled Web UK Review July 2000
The Blood Tree by
Paul Johnston
hbk out June 00
Published by Hodder & Stoughton
at £16.99
The year is 2026 and Edinburgh is an independent city state ruled by the Council of guardians and increasingly troubled by gangs of kids on the rampage. Someone has broken into the archives of the Old Scottish Parliament and stolen documents from a genetic engineering file. Following quickly on the break in two murders occur. In each case the victim is mutilated and covered with blood drenched branches.
Quint Dalrymple, maverick investigator is called in to investigate. The trail leads him to Glasgow, a flourishing modern state, where there has also been a string of horrific murders. As Quint moves closer to revealing the pattern behind the killings the case takes on a completely unexpected and chilling personal dimension.
Johnston’s creation of a shabby, gloomy and impoverished Edinburgh and the contrast with the vibrant, democratic state of Glasgow provides both an excellent setting for the story as well as an opportunity for wry comment on the state of cities, how we are governed, tourism, marketing and myths. Quint Dalrymple is an engaging protagonist. His relationships with friends and family form an important part of the book and are woven into the investigation. The plot is convoluted and a rather convenient and comprehensive confession ties up all the ends but The Blood Tree is an imaginative and enjoyable read and the futuristic setting well worth a visit.
Manchester Evening News 16/06/00
(
Cath Staincliffe
- Author of the highly acclaimed Sal Kilkenny Mysteries set on the Mean Streets of Manchester)
