When the Music’s Over
"..one of Robinson’s best."
Synopsis:
Two strands to this latest Alan Banks' investigation have a common theme: that of the sexual exploitation of children. DI Annie Abbot is heading up the search for the killer of a 14 year old girl found beaten to death after being abused by several men and thrown out of a moving van. Newly promoted Detective Superintendent Banks finds himself investigating a fifty year old case of child abuse by a well-known celebrity. The witness is credible but the passing of years makes the investigation difficult and the high profile of the alleged perpetrator means the powers above are anxious for a swift and watertight resolution. More allegations of historic abuse come to light and Detective Superintendent Banks needs to evaluate and find the truth.
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Review:
There are obvious parallels in real life. Jimmy Savile, Rolf Harris and Cyril Smith have been unmasked as serial sex offenders. Groups of Pakistani men have been jailed for grooming and abusing young vulnerable girls in Rotherham. Peter Robinson explores the attitudes and reactions of police and public to the initial accusations in this fictional account. The kowtowing to celebrity, the feeling that somehow the girls were to blame and the reluctance of the police to intrude into Asian neighbourhoods for fear of being called fascist are delicately and sympathetically explored in this book. But, as always, Peter Robinson provides us with a cracking good story with wonderful characters. Banks and Abbot continue their close but now platonic relationship. Music underscores the story and enhances the action. Yorkshire moors and cityscapes are intrinsic to the atmosphere. I always look forward to the latest book by the master of his craft and this is one of Robinson's best.