Devil’s Feathers: Inspector Levent Series

by: David Chacko

Published by: Foremost Press

Reviewed by Mayra Calvani

If you like detective mysteries set in exotic countries, then you will enjoy this latest novel by talented author David Chacko.

The story begins with our series detective, Inspector Levent of Istanbul Homicide, vacationing in Bodrum, a beautiful little city on the south of Turkey, on the Mediterranean Sea. Levent’s holiday doesn’t last too long, however, for he is soon called on a case, probably the darkest case he’s had to investigate so far. A man has been mysteriously burned inside his car after stepping out of a small store.

Who is the victim? Why does no one seem to know the real identity of this man, and why do the clues keep pointing more and more to the very center of the Turkish secret police? As Levent interrogates more people, a long list of suspects begins to emerge, and he is soon pulled into a dark vortex of lies and intrigue. At the same time, a profile of the dead man begins to surface, a man of many faces and seemingly many trades. Will Inspector Levent solve the mystery before the whole coast goes into flames?

Devil’s Feathers is an interesting, engaging mystery with a fairly sympathetic detective. The story moves at an even pace, with Inspector Levent taking his time thoroughly following up on clues and interrogating the suspects. The picturesque descriptions add color and an exotic flavor to the prose, making the setting come alive for the reader. It is a well-written mystery as far as police procedures and the investigation go.

However, I would have loved to see a more personal side to the Inspector, in order to connect better with him. As it is, he keeps himself distant from the story. It’s not that he isn’t sympathetic; he is. But he’s also a bit bland at times. Overall, I found this to be a slow read. Again, the writing is good, but it lacks the suspense or excitement that would turn this story into a page-turner.

Armchair Interviews says: Good story with some possible pacing problems.

Author’s Web site: http://www.DavidChacko.com