A review by dee7496
The Dark Remains by William McIlvanney, Ian Rankin

lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

I read this book before having read any of McIlvanney's other 'Laidlaw' books (this is a prequel that was left unfinished when WM passed away). WM's estate commissioned Ian Rankin to finish the manuscript. Not being familiar with any of the previous books or characters, this book felt very flat to me, and where I thought it might lead me into a WM reading spree, sadly it has not.  I might still try the first Laidlaw book at some point, but then again I'm not sure I connected with his character enough for me to want to spend another 200 pages in his company. But i never say never!