Book review - The Murderer's Ape

 

Title: The Murderer's Ape

Author: Jakob Wegelius

Genre: mystery

Similar books: The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge by Eugene Yelchin

                      The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Rating:

detail oriented

Summary (provided by publisher): Sally Jones is not only a loyal friend, she's an extraordinary individual. In overalls or in a maharaja's turban, this unique gorilla moves among humans without speaking but understanding everything. She and the Chief are devoted comrades who operate a cargo boat. A job they are offered pays big bucks, but the deal ends badly, and the Chief is falsely convicted of murder.

For Sally Jones this is the start of a harrowing quest for survival and to clear the Chief's name. Powerful forces are working against her, and they will do anything to protect their secrets.

My opinion: Stylistically, this book is reminiscent of older books. I was reminded somewhat of reading Doctor Dolittle or Toby Tyler. These are slower, meandering adventures with plenty of attention to detail. And that is certainly the case with The Murderer's Ape. There is far more attention paid to how Sally Jones occupies her time after the Chief's arrest than in the investigation into clearing his name. The new evidence comes along largely as a side product as Sally Jones meets new people and has varied experiences. While the mystery is compelling and thoughtful, the slower pace may be frustrating for younger readers.

More information: The Murderer's Ape releases September 10.

Advanced Reader Copy provided by NetGalley