I chose this book for the 2017 Guy Fawkes exchange because of the word 'traitor' in the title. Even though there is no gunpowder nor bonfire in it, there is plenty of plotting, and a big, unforeseen explosion at the end.

It probably does belong in the 'Mystery & Thrillers' category, but so much of that format is based on standard, repetitive plots that the books are ho-hum, or worse. Elizabeth George almost deserves a category of her own.

Her books run on the long side, because of the careful way she builds up each character into a credible individual, with his or her own backstory and concerns. She's also brilliant at planting information. When I re-read her books, I'm always completely absorbed because of the excellent writing, and I enjoy being able to spot some of the signals that point to the resolution.

In this book, a prodigiously talented violinist suddenly loses his ability to play. The cause seems buried in a very troubled family history, an incident which the violinist is unable to remember (hence the title). The threads from that family extend outward and create a rich, complex, surprising and satisfying story.

But that's just one person's opinion. Future readers, what do YOU think?

Mailed to Poodlesister for the Guy Fawkes exchange. Included with the book are some chocolates & toffees (a liking mentioned on her profile), and greetings from Minnesota, USA, in the form of a postcard picture of a loon. Here's a link to help you enjoy the experience: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLZBNB2ZwNA

Thank you for all the lovely presents. I've never read any Elizabeth George but I have watched the Inspector Linley tv series so I am familiar with the characters.

I found the book slightly overlong and I wanted to read more about the detectives and less about the potential suspects. I particularly like Havers and Nkata.

Reserved for the Guy Fawkes Special Sunset Mission on 5th November.

Releasing for the Guy Fawkes Special Sunset Mission.