Blackout by Simon Scarrow is a historical murder mystery thriller set in WW II Germany.
Blurb:
As Germany goes to war, the Nazis tighten their terrifying grip. Paranoia in the capital is intensified by a rigidly enforced blackout that plunges the city into oppressive darkness every night, as the bleak winter sun sets.
When a young woman is found brutally murdered, Criminal Inspector Horst Schenke is under immense pressure to solve the case, swiftly. Treated with suspicion by his superiors for his failure to joining the Nazi Party, Schenke walks a perilous line - for disloyalty is a death sentence.
The discovery of a second victim confirms Schenke's worst fears. He must uncover the truth before evil strikes again.
As the investigation takes him closer to the sinister heart of the regime, Schenke realises there is danger everywhere - and the warring factions of the Reich can be as deadly as a killer stalking the streets . . .
Review:
I love a good historical fiction novel, especially if it's set in a European setting. Blackout was just what I wanted to read as it is set in Berlin Germany during 1939. The suspense-building power of Simon was extraordinary.
The unsafe dark cold winter with enforced blackout within the streets creates an environment of fear for the people. This further increases the criminal activities that happen within these dark alleys. Apart from the fear of criminal incidents, people are also worried about the war and the rise of Nazi party influence through the city. Amidst all this, Crime Inspector Horst is leading an investigation for the rape and murder of the film star, Gerda Korzeny. It was until another woman is found, that Schenke is more determined to find the ruthless serial killer.
Through his investigation, Schenke will realize the road to justice is much worse than imagined. The involvement of political parties, including the Nazi Regimes, and the constant pressure on the police will make things difficult for him. But the need for justice and to save the other women from the monster, is more important for Schenke than anything.
The constant tension throughout the investigation was a nail-biting experience. I loved the psychological conundrum that Schenke was facing during his investigation. The need to reveal the truth whilst knowing the realities of the investigation, created a constant tension. The political propaganda intricately weaved through the murder mystery was just the perfect mix.
This is a great nail-biting murder mystery with a lot of actual facts from Nazi-occupied Germany during WW2. If you are a historical fiction buff, this is a must-read for you.
