... a compelling, rip-roaring crime story peppered with dry South African humour ... Meyer’s depiction of Stellenbosch is spot on, from the persistent traffic and parking issues to income disparities ... includes a wonderfully vivid depiction of the Stellenbosch setting and the multiple references to its neighbourhoods and restaurants warmed this reader’s Stellenbosch heart ... Meyer’s short, punchy chapters keep readers on their toes, but sometimes make it hard to focus on the overarching storylines. The expansive cast of characters, many with Afrikaans nicknames coined according to their appearances or mannerisms, could confuse, but fortunately most add interest and some light comic relief ... everything you would expect from a Deon Meyer novel. It’s clear why his books have been translated into 127 languages. He knows how to craft an engaging and clever plot through multiple threads without losing the attention of his audience. The Dark Flood grips, entertains and satisfies. It comes recommended, even if you’re not a Stellenbosch local.
... a character-driven novel, and Griessel’s history of alcoholism is one of the main characters (albeit one without a speaking role). Larceny abounds, and in at least a couple of the cases, readers will almost hope that the perps get away with it. Even the book’s villains are laden with backstory, and it is borderline impossible to avoid feeling some level of sympathy for one and all. Fans of Jo Nesbø’s similarly character-driven Harry Hole mysteries will find lots to like here.
Absorbing procedural details lead to an explosive confrontation with a ruthless street gang and a police-corruption scheme that links SAPS to the country’s devastating political scandals. It’s a grim period for South Africa, but Griessel and Caputo remain loyal to justice and to each other. A gritty but surprisingly hopeful installment in Meyer’s immensely popular series.
The translator leaves in enough Afrikaans words to flavor the narrative, but the reader will occasionally ponder their meanings ... The plotlines are tightly knitted together, and the story ends with a nifty twist ... A well-crafted blend of suspense, culture, and humor. Meyer is terrific.
... stellar ... Meyer adds a Madoff-like financial fraudster and a homicide as he toggles between story lines and keeps things moving toward the wholly satisfying conclusion. This is the best work yet from this gifted author.
