I’ll be honest at the outset; I am not a reader of crime novels. How on earth this little gem landed in my reading pile is a mystery for which I am very grateful.

Von Schirac is a highly respected author of books and plays and is also a leading German defence lawyer.

This book tells of a crime for which the perpetrator admits guilt and offers no excuses or explanations. Caspar Leinen is a newly qualified defence lawyer based in Berlin and keen to make his name with successful cases. Collini, the murderer, is his first case. Early on in his investigations Leinen discovers he is himself related to the murder victim and faces a dilemma. Should he continue to defend the murderer? Leinen’s family connections to the victim, the history of Nazi Germany and his legal training entwine to create a disturbing story unfolding in modern Germany.

This is a slim novel, only 186 pages and large print too. However, this is a book where words are used with absolute precision, no wastage, everyone counts. The author creates scenes with words which create pictures which draw you in and transport you. In my background reading of the author, I found this quote in an interview he gave: “The challenge of writing is simplicity. To write clearly. And that’s my aim.” And it’s also a pure joy to read.

The author’s own grandfather was convicted at Nuremberg of war crimes and this book itself has played a part in the search for justice following the horrors of Nazi Germany. Other reviewers warn against knowing too much of the plot and the story before reading the novel. I hope I haven’t revealed too much for you to be able to enjoy this gem.

This book is part of the Barrow Library’s Community book collection and available to borrow.

Catherine Holmes