The Laughing Policeman is a well written novel that blends the genres of a crime thriller with horror. In this story, the Author introduces the reader to the main protagonist, Charlie Haynes, who is an ageing ex-detective. Charlie is sent in to investigate the ritualistic killings of 3 teenagers, whose murders are of a similar pattern to a cold case, where a serial killer had targeted a family of travellers for reasons unknown.
The further Charlie digs, the more he realises that something truly evil is afoot, and what is more alarming is that the killer has a personal connection to him. Can he free an innocent girl and bring the killer to justice?
This is a really great plot that moves along at a good pace, with lots of atmosphere, tension, conflict and drama. The characters are well developed so much so that readers will definitely struggle not to have any feelings of compassion or sympathy for the killer!
The dialogue is credible and there are no significant editorial issues to detract from the book. I have to say that I really enjoyed the story and remained engaged throughout.
I am therefore awarding 5 stars.
