DEAD SOULS by Ian Rankin

Finished Su 7/1/12

My Post on Good Reads:


I am an avid fan of Ian Rankin, so I would recommend all of the John Rebus series. Primarily this book concerns Darren Rough, a Sex Offender who is just out of prison, and he is involved with the death/suicide of Rebus's friend, James Margolies. Also, Cary Oakes, a Scottish criminal who went on to become a multiple murderer in America is back in the Edinburgh area, and is being interviewed by journalist, Jim Stevens. And, as with all of the Ian Rankin books, DEAD SOULS concerns numerous plot-lines and character developments, but I think the that the major development in this book is that John Rebus is drinking again.

John Rebus is a remarkable character, and it's always a treat to traverse 'the mean streets' of Edinburgh with this good-hearted, yet neurotic detective.


Link to Amazon about the novel:
http://www.amazon.com/Dead-Souls-Inspector-Minotaur-Mysteries/dp/0312974205

Numerous plot-lines and character developments   John Rebus is drinking again, and his adult daughter is paralyzed from the waist down and in a wheelchair ,  and this seems to be because of a hit and run driver. This is not a story that is developed. 

Darren Rough- Sex Offender who is just out of prison, and Rebus 'outs him' to the locals. He had something to do with the death/suicide of a cop, James Margolies.

Cary Oakes- Born in Scotland but had a career as a multiple murderer in America. He has been released, and his back in Edinburgh and being interviewed by a journalist, Jim Stevens.

Cal and Jamie Brady (Mother is Van)- They live in the housing complex with Darren Rough, and they lead a public campaign to have him thrown out. GAP

Janice Mee and Brian Mee- Married couple and Rebus was a boyfriend of Janice several decades ago. No sex, but he seemed to really love her, and he has a great respect for Brian (Barney). Brian fought for Mitch when he was attacked at a dance years ago. And, this led to John Rebus joining the army, and not marrying Janice.

Damon Mee- the son of Brian and Janice. He is missing and this makes Janice reconnect with Rebus.

Alan Archibald- A retired cop who is trying to find out if Cary Oakes actually killed his niece.

Ama Petrie and Nicol Petrie- Brother and sister and they are kind of 'Upper Crust Rich'. Nicky is a drag queen and is the person seen with Damon when he disappears at the bar.

Dr. Joseph Margolies- He is an administrator in a children's home and a child molester. He is the father of the cop that Rebus knew, and responsible for the cover-up. He is not caught.

Shiellion House- This is a court case about child molestation that Rebus is involved with. Darren Rough was abused by these people. but his life is forever ruined.