The interest of this novel lies not in the relatively simple murder mystery but the historical context and the characters. In the manner of a Fred Vargas, Chabon has the gift to create beings to the palpable presence through descriptions of both original and subtle. We can and will take a liking to the old investigator of 89 years whose name is never mentioned but whose identity is self-same.
If this is the suspense you are looking for, go your way. But if you love the characters, literary style and inspired petulant, or the work of a great writer of British detective novel which pays tribute Chabon, you probably have a good time.
