Description
Book SynopsisIn the piazza, a man lies dead. No one will say if they witnessed his killing. This presents a challenge to the investigating officer, a man who earnestly believes in the values of a democratic and modern society. Indeed, his enquiries are soon blocked off by a wall of silence and vested interests; he must work against the community to save it and expose the truth.The narrative moves on two levels: that of the investigator, who reveals a chain of savage crimes; and that of the bystanders and watchers, of those complicit with secret power, whose gossipy, furtive conversations have only one end - to stop the truth coming out. This novel about the Mafia is also a mesmerizing demonstration of how that organization sustains itself. It is both a beautifully, tautly written story and a brave act of denunciation.
Trade ReviewThe most intelligent detective story I have ever read and the ideal introduction to Sciascia's brilliant but little known oeuvre -- Thomas Wright * Daily Telegraph *
The best evocation of Sicily I've read, this is one for the crime connoisseurs -- Leslie Forbes
A very well-written page turner. This is an absorbing and compelling story * Northampton Chronicle *
One of the major writers of the age * Time Literary Supplement *
A detective story that is so much more; sharp and precise and demanding the reader to render judgement * Absolutely Chelsea *
Irresistible... The finest writer [out of these classic sleuth reissues] -- Anthony Cummins * Metro *
