Saturday, August 4, 2012

Review: The Lock Artist by Steve Hamilton

Synopsis: Marked by tragedy, traumatized at the age of eight, Michael, now eighteen, is no ordinary young man. Besides not uttering a single word in ten years, he discovers the one thing he can somehow do better than anyone else. Whether it's a locked door without a key, a padlock with no combination, or even an eight-hundred pound safe ... he can open them all. It's an unforgivable talent. A talent that will make young Michael a hot commodity with the wrong people and, whether he likes it or not, push him ever close to a life of crime. Until he finally sees his chance to escape, and with one desperate gamble risks everything to come back home to the only person he ever loved, and to unlock the secret that has kept him silent for so long. (from the back of the book)

Review: I heard Hamilton speak at a writer's conference. He signed my book. And I am so glad I picked it up. This is a marvelous story. The characters have depth, roundness and flaws. The plot, jumping between two time frames, keep the mystery and made me stay up late to finish it. The puzzle-plot reminds me of Agatha Christie. I highly recommend - even if you aren't a mystry fan.

Bookmarks: 8 of 10

Awards: 2011 Edgar Award for Best Novel

Date Finished: 7-31-2012
Pages: 314

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