MYSTERY

The Devouring: A Billy Boyle World War II Mystery

Soho Crime. Sept. 2017. 320p. ISBN 9781616957735. $26.95; ebk. ISBN 9781616957742. M
COPY ISBN
In this 12th series entry, Billy Boyle and friend Kaz are sent to neutral Switzerland to investigate the murder of a banking official with ties to the OSS. But our heroes are shot down over France before reaching Switzerland. With the assistance of Anton Lasho, a member of the Sinti (Romany) ethnic group, out to avenge the slaughter of his family by the Nazis, they make it over the border and find that Swiss banks are openly laundering gold stolen from concentration camp victims. Extensive historical and military contextual detail, copious suspense, plenty of action, and the innate politics of power are distinctive traits of this acclaimed World War II-set series.
VERDICT The theme of Swiss complicity with the Nazis and their profiteering is absorbing and should appeal to historical fiction fans, mystery readers, and military buffs. Read-alikes include Martin Limón's fast-paced "Sueño and Bascom" military mysteries, and J. Robert Janes's "St-Cyr and Kohler" series set in occupied France.
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


RELATED 

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?