The Patient by Tim Sullivan

I was given an ARC of this book and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The best thing about this story is the character, DS George Cross – I loved his uniqueness, his quirky way of doing things, his logical thought-process, which were traits of Asperger’s Syndrome – spectrum of autism. Evidence rather than instinct was the best kind of investigation, according to Cross.

Going against theories of the incompetent, Cross investigates the death of a young woman due to the pleas of her mother – yet, something doesn’t sit right, so into the mystery he goes.

There are other characters that fit nicely into the story, but it is Cross that made it enjoyable for me – despite his supposed lack of social skills, I liked his style, and the way he tried to take on the advice of his partner, and his straightforward manner. His relationship with his father was fascinating and the way he behaved with regard to those without a real voice. His interaction with Esther was particularly well done. I also liked the way those he worked with understood his ‘difference’ (most, if not all). And he was thought a genius in catching the criminals, so allowances were made for his unusual methods.

Themes such as drug abuse, mental health, difference, politics, murder, suicide (and more), together with the great plo, and characters, made this a compelling read.

The writing style was fast-paced and intelligently done – certainly a page-turner.

A highly recommended crime thriller.