Rough Country was an enjoyable read, with plenty of twists and turns throughout. It was also a book that I felt brought out the emotions of those involved in the situation, whether they were directly involved or spectators to the investigation, as this was a book that cut to the heart of the rural town and its occupants. Delving into their lives and beliefs and secrets, in the search for the truth of Kasey’s death. I felt the prologue was the strongest part of the book and does an excellent job of making you sit up in your chair and hooking you into the story.
What I particularly enjoyed about this book is that the plot wasn’t constrained to the immediate timeframe, instead exploring and linking events across decades and weaving them together into the present events. This added a depth to the story, that wasn’t necessary there at other points, especially in terms of the investigation that felt a little lost in the rest of what was happening at times.
There was a large cast of characters in this one that is introduced fairly quickly and closely together, and while some stood out more than others, it was difficult to keep track of them at times. That said Raleigh made for an interesting character, and while he was fairly typical in terms of modern detectives/protagonists having a somewhat troubled past, he was enjoyable to read. I liked his approach to the investigation, very methodical and calm in the face of everything that is happening, and I felt that he carried the investigation aspect of the book and gave it the sense of progress and professionalism.
Brearton has an easy, flowing writing style, and the pacing was excellent, and this is a well-plotted story with just the right amount of tension and plot twists to leave you needing to know what happened next. Creating an entertaining read, that fans of crime fiction will enjoy