A brilliant Strike and Robin novel

 

 ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ When I walked into Waterstones and saw this sizeable novel on a towering stack by the door, my heart leapt for joy! Another Strike and Ellacott stunner was about to dominate my life (and Christmas!) in the best way possible. The vast number of pages was complete bliss for me as I want to take my time visiting this world alongside Corm and Robin whilst they unravel the many varied and misleading clues to the mystery. Novels, for me, are all about world building and character development. The reader wants to lose herself in a story that feels authentic and well rounded. Entirely guaranteed with this extremely talented author. I was with her from word one through to the close of the book. I feel sad it has finished so soon but take comfort knowing there are sure to be more adventures for our intrepid duo.

In The Ink Black Heart we delve into the (aptly) savage world of social media and the cruelty that is unleashed on those who don't conform to whatever thought/manipulation/brainwashing/bullying is the flavour of the day. Specifically, the destruction of one of the creators of The Ink Black Heart, a cult classic cartoon. The fandom is vocal and vicious congregating in an online game inspired by the cartoon, led by the mysterious Anomie. As you would expect, there's a fair bit of murder but be warned the language can be extremely vile as the online convos let rip to a shocking, likely realistic, level. Once you get to grips with online chat dialogue, it's plain sailing. Sit back and enjoy.

Of course I loved it. The dynamic between Strike and Robin is so finely crafted, the red herrings and diversions balance the story nicely and the sense of tension/danger is spot on. This might be my favourite thus far? Or is that just joy at seeing Matthew in the rear view? Regardless, The Ink Black Heart is fantastic so don't be put off by the size but, instead, embrace and enjoy it.