We Begin at the End

The characters, the characters, the characters. They were so nuanced and real and Whitaker writes about cops in a way that rings so true--not just action-adventure heroes--or racist thugs--but flawed, struggling, kind human beings (I am married to a cop). But I loved all of the characters--the grandfather, and Robin, and Thomas Noble--and Duchess. My heart broke for these characters and I loved that too--Whitaker's book is ultimately hopeful and such a testament to love, but he doesn't protect his characters from the bad stuff.

This is an exceptional crime novel. The characters are rich and unforgettable—Duchess and Thomas Noble will stay with me for a very long time. It is also beautifully written—nothing is unnecessary and every word has a purpose. I cried, I laughed and above all I rooted for them. One of those books I wish I'd written myself. A must-read.