The Dark Side of The Road

The Dark Side of The Road (2015) Simon R. Green

I have an off-and-on relationship with Simon Green’s stories. Some I love very much (Nightside) while others, I just can’t get into (The Secret Histories). But finding it on sale, I decided to give this new book a try.

Ishmael Jones lives under the radar, working for secret agencies, doing things that others can’t.

My reflection met my gaze with a cold, mistrustful stare. A very familiar face because it hadn’t changed in so very long. Not the one I would have chosen; but good enough. I was tall, slim, dark-haired and handsome enough if you weren’t too choosy. A long rangy figure who appeared to be in his mid twenties. Dressed well, but anonymously. The kind of stuff you can buy anywhere, so you can fit in anywhere. An easy smile, a casual look, and dark eyes that gave away absolutely nothing.

Right before Christmas, in the midst of a terrible storm, he receives a call from his boss and mentor to come to Belcourt Manor, the Colonel’s family home.

This book is classic snarky Simon Green.

Don’t worry if you can’t tell me any of your secrets; just make up some fascinating lies. That’s what I always do.’

‘It’s amazing,’ said Jeeves. ‘You keep talking and you keep coming up with things, and yet not one of them is ever remotely comforting.’

‘It’s a gift,’ I said.

And as with the Nightside books (and in the classic style of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle) the cases and histories that are hinted at are delightful and horrifying.

(T)he Murder Generals; the Dark Lady from Under the Hill; the Queen in Waiting and the Cathedral in Flames; and the High Orbit Ghosts. They all threatened the world, in their time, until the Colonel and I put them down.

I do love how what he hints at is far more horrifying that what he could describe.

Is this book for everyone? Probably not, as I think that Simon Green may be a specific taste, but if you enjoyed Nightside, or like The Rivers of London, then you should enjoy this latest Simon Green offering.
Rating: 8/10

Published by Severn House Digital

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