Has anyone here read "Child 44"?

[EC]

Best book ever...just starting sequel "Secret Speech" and so far it has the same hold on me as did Child. This author leaves every chapter in intrigue guaranteeing the reader will keep reading...can't put it down.

[sharp_stick]

1. I did

I enjoyed it pretty much throughout but thought the ending was rushed and contrived. I'll leave it at that because I don't like dropping spoilers.

[Freethinker65]

3. I read it for a book club and agree with your assessment nt

[EC]

4. Spoiler on "Secret Speech"?

I was wondering. The blub says that he spent alot of time on Child, so I was wondering why Secret was out so fast. Rushed ending could explain it. If you meant on Child, I just figured it was because he was planning a follow up.

[Freethinker65]

5. I don't know anything about the sequel (?)

The first book was loosely based on a real person. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrei_Chikatilo

[EC]

7. Thanks for the page

I think I did read that it was a real case. What I really liked was the official denial standing in the way of even investigating the case because "the state was so ideal that murder just doesn't exist"mindset. Something like I see in the Anti Women's Health group and their need to make abortion illegal. They seem to think that just because it's illegal it won't happen anymore. Just complete denial of reality...of course the repubs are really good at that.

[sharp_stick]

6. No I meant spoilers on Child-44

I haven't had a chance to read Secret Speech yet though I do plan on it. Thanks for reminding me about it, I'll add it to my list now.

I didn't want to add any plot points to my assessment of Child-44 because I do think it's a lot of fun to read and I'd hate to ruin it for anyone.

Child-44 was Smiths first novel and that's mainly why I think the ending felt the way it did for me. I imagine actually cleanly finishing a novel with so many plot points is hard enough for a veteran mystery/thriller writer never mind a "newbie".

Smith showed IMO an excellent ability to bring you into the world of the book and I fully expect Secret Speech and other novels to be really good.

[polly7]

2. Thanks for the recommendation. It sounds like something I'd enjoy. nt.