The Sound of Broken Glass

Detective Inspector Gemma James and Detective Sergeant Melody Talbot investigate the murder of a barrister found in a seedy London hotel. The case leads them into the Crystal Palace area of South London, where the victim had deep connections. The narrative alternates between the present-day investigation and flashbacks to the 1980s, focusing on a teenage boy named Andy Monahan and his relationship with a school teacher. These parallel storylines become increasingly interconnected as the investigation progresses. Duncan Kincaid, Gemma's husband and fellow detective, takes a supporting role while on leave to care for their children, offering insights from home while Gemma pursues the expanding case. The investigation reveals links between the victim and the local music scene of Crystal Palace, both past and present. The novel explores themes of childhood trauma, the lasting impact of seemingly small choices, and how the past shapes present identities. Against the backdrop of a changing London neighborhood, the story examines the ripple effects of actions across decades.

Readers appreciate how the book weaves together two parallel storylines - one in the present and one from 15 years ago. Many note the strong character development, particularly of Duncan Kincaid and Gemma James. Reviewers highlight Crombie's detailed portrayal of Crystal Palace in South London and her research into the area's history and music scene. Common criticisms include the slow pacing in the first third of the book and confusion over keeping track of the multiple timelines and characters. Some longtime series readers found the reduced role of Duncan Kincaid disappointing. Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (6,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (500+ ratings) Sample reader comments: "The parallel plots kept me guessing until the end" - Amazon reviewer "Too many characters to keep straight" - Goodreads reviewer "Crystal Palace comes alive as almost another character" - Barnes & Noble reviewer "Missed having more of Duncan's perspective" - Goodreads reviewer

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🔍 The novel weaves together both contemporary and historical storylines set in Crystal Palace, a South London neighborhood named after the massive glass exhibition hall that once stood there until it burned down in 1936. 🖋️ Deborah Crombie, though American-born, writes exclusively British mysteries and visits London several times a year to research her novels. She has never lived in England permanently. 🎸 The book explores London's music scene, particularly focusing on the punk and indie rock culture that flourished in Crystal Palace during the 1970s and remains part of the area's identity. 👥 This is the 15th book in Crombie's Duncan Kincaid/Gemma James series, but it primarily features Detective Inspector Gemma James's sergeant, Melody Talbot, as the main investigator. 🏛️ Crystal Palace Park, which features prominently in the novel, still houses life-sized models of dinosaurs created in the 1850s - the first dinosaur sculptures ever created for public display.