Faithless in Death Book Review

Okay, so the joke was on me with this book. Nothing in the blurb prepared me for what I found in this story. I am new to this series, and to J.D. Robb which meant I had no idea what to expect. Based on the blurb I started reading expecting crime fiction – which essentially it is – but I was not prepared for a futuristic tale.

I was not focusing when I started this book which led me to completely miss the date mentioned on the very first page. (I never registered the mention of the year 2061 on page one).

Needless to say, I found myself being a little confused, not understanding everything that was happening, which I put down to being in lockdown and having lost touch with what’s happening in the world. Can you imagine my surprise and relief when I eventually figured out that the story was set in the future? I had to laugh at myself for being so dense.

This crime fiction looks at the lives of a religious cult, their beliefs and the extent they would go to for what they believe in. Yet when it’s all broken down, it is no more than greed, a need for power, control and of course money.

Being new to the series, there was a lot I did not understand – terms and reference to electronic devices that flew right over my head. However, looking past the futuristic elements this was an intriguing tale with loads of surprises along the way.

Faithless in Death is a crime fiction novel with all the elements that make for a gripping crime novel. Had I known beforehand that this was a futuristic novel, I would most likely not have picked it up. I found it difficult to keep up with the technology and even the way the characters spoke was not natural. I believe a lot of my confusion was because I haven’t read any other books in the series, leaving me a little on the outside with this book.

The characters are a colourful bunch, with long term relationship clearly in play. I am convinced that reading this series in order will make it a much more enjoyable read. The book hints at past experiences which make the characters a lot more appealing.

Crunch time, did I love this book or hate it?

Neither I am afraid. I loved the basic story; it was interesting and entertaining. I was curious about where it was headed and eager to find out who killed Ariel. Unfortunately, because I am new to the series I felt left out, which made it difficult to become completely invested.

This book will be well accepted by those familiar with the series, and readers who enjoy a futuristic crime novel. The important thing is to know upfront that this is a futuristic story – I am convinced that if I was prepared for that I would have enjoyed the book a lot more.

I have to add that I blame myself for not going into this story with my eyes wide open – I missed the date reference at the begin – the author was pretty clear on that basis – so my lack of focus while reading was largely to blame for a lot of my misunderstanding.

The author did a good job on this novel and I would recommend it to fellow crime fiction enthusiast. Be aware that this story is set in the 2060s and you will find it greatly entertaining.