In The Galway Silence:

A Jack Taylor Novel

By Ken Bruen

I want to thank NetGalley and Grove Atlantic for providing me with a digital copy of this book  

This is my first read of a Ken Bruen novel (Jack Taylor series #13) so I must admit I am a bit of a neophyte when it comes to following Bruen’s style of storytelling.  How it compares to other books within the series is for others to say, but for me it is a difficult novel to read.  The discourse is rapid and choppy and at times difficult to follow. 

Jack Taylor says he is happy, although his drinking and drug consumption have you wondering.  So when Monsieur Renaud enters the bar and asks Jack to find out who killed his twin sons he refuses to take the job.  Of course, as with any good detective, saying no is not that easy. This change of heart as well as the return of a girlfriend and then his ex-wife spins things out of control for Jack and many of the people close to him.  

The story itself is interesting but morbid.  The black humor and quick-witted insults serve to speed the book along, but for me they are also a distraction.  Frequent and non-relevant references to worldwide current events will quickly date the book (at least I hope Trump is history very soon).    Having said this, once you are into the rhythm of Ken Bruen’s style of writing, this story is a unique and engaging read.  It can be funny and yet heartbreaking.  I recommend one give it a try and for the reason I score it 3/5.