Questions About A Song for the Dark Times (Inspector Rebus, #23)

by Ian Rankin (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (4)

Just curious - who do other readers see in their mind's eyes when they read Ian Rankin and are imagining John Rebus? Have an actor or other person in mind as you read? Me, I know there is a big difference between New York City and Edinburgh, but in my mind's eye I see Dennis Frantz from NYPD Blues and his Andy Sipowicz character. Is there someone from BBC dramas with the appropriate accent you see?

Michael I think Ken Stott looked the part, but for the grumpy person Rebus is, John Hannah really played the persona very well.

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Can this be read as a stand alone or is it necessary to read the prior books?

Matthew J MacKay Knowing the backstory of the characters adds to the enjoyment of the story, but it can function as a stand-alone mystery. But, do yourself a favor and…moreKnowing the backstory of the characters adds to the enjoyment of the story, but it can function as a stand-alone mystery. But, do yourself a favor and start with the first Rebus and treat yourself to a wonderful series.(less)

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This question contains spoilers... (view spoiler)

Janet Catherina

This answer contains spoilers… (view spoiler)

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A recurring theme in the Rebus books is his Saab, which appears to finally become unserviceable in "A Song for Dark Times". I have not read all the Rebus books but the Saab has significant problems in Knots and Crosses, published 1987. Does he ever change his car, and what model does he drive? I imagine Rebus driving the 2-door 2-stroke Saab 96.

Bob Marshall (Answering my own question) in the prologue to "Saints of the Shadow Bible", set during the 2014 Scottish Independence campaign, Rebus' Saab "produces…more(Answering my own question) in the prologue to "Saints of the Shadow Bible", set during the 2014 Scottish Independence campaign, Rebus' Saab "produces a burst of smoke" as it sets, indicating his car has a 2 stroke engine.
The Saab 96 with a 2 stroke engine was replaced by a 4 stroke version in 1967. so his car is 20 years old in the first book and 45 years old when he gives up trying to keep it on the road in "A Song for Dark Times".(less)

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