The Quirke series of novels - Benjamin Black

[sloblock]

I started reading these lately, as I like a good number of John Banville's books and enjoyed the first of his 'Benjamin Black' ones that I read (Prague Nights - I recommend with moderate enthusiasm).

But I am finding the Quirke books close to pure shit. Am I missing something? Do they improve as the series goes on? Or should I just write off my Kindle expenditure on the 6-pack?

[BBJ]

I enjoyed them but I suppose it's a matter of taste as I'm very much into crime literature. Hope it improves for you!

[doppellanger]

I've just finished Prague Nights and thought the same, moderately good. I've read one of the Quirke books and I thought it was just ok, haven't been bothered to get any more.

I think Banville himself doesn't think that much of the crime genre and that shows in the books - it's like he's making some effort but not really trying that hard.

The tv series of the book was on tv here but only in German but I was still able to watch a few episodes. Makes Dublin seem like a gritty, grimy, grubby city, so probably fairly realistic