Book review: G.P. Robbins’ Dead Weight

In G.P. Robbins’ Dead Weight (Magic, Mayhem, and the Law in Precinct #153 Book 1) Precinct 153 was the place weird and weirder came to look normal. Sometimes, however, there are just events that take the cake, like the fearsome and respected ruler of New York City almost being assassinated by eggs. But that is the least of Jace’s worries. With a recent spur of brutal, stomach-churning crimes, organ theft, and kidnapping, the rookie detective has really been thrown in at the deep end. Can he prove his mettle and piece together a case that has everyone scratching their heads? This will certainly be a baptism by fire, especially if his new roommate is allowed anywhere near the kitchen.

The writing style of G.P. Robbins reminds me a little of how it would be to read a collaboration created by the writers of RIPD, Bright and Happy. The combination of playful antics and humor is perfectly offset with the darker themes of ongoing investigations. There has clearly been a lot of thought put into not only the characters’ development but the world building and the mythos of the magical hierarchy. Dead Weight really focuses on the issue of large cases with next to no leads and the troubles thereof, which also allows ample time for all the characters to have their time in the spotlight in a slow-burn mystery. You get to see the inner workings and frustrations of Precinct 153 as they put together their case based on clues and instinct unraveling the threads and slowly building a bigger picture, and getting that picture is one Hell of a challenge as everything seems to pile against progress. Character-driven, this book is a must for those who love deep and developed characters with their own personalities that shy away from cookie-cutter expectations. The interactions and challenges are priceless, and you’ll be grinning, cringing, and looking on in horror right along with them.

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