Mystery Book Reviews

Book Review: Three to Kill by Jean-Patrick Manchette

By Angela Youngman Feb 20, 2007, 11:16 GMT

Travelling salesman Georges Gerfaut stops to help an injured motorist - who on arrival at hospital is discovered to have gunshot wounds. Gerfaut by this time has disappeared. Three days later while on holiday with his wife and children, he is attacked and nearly killed by two men. Further attacks on his life follow. Gerfaut goes on the run, communicating with his family by telegram. Life becomes an unusual holiday as he virtually disappears - from sight in the mountains intent on saving his own life - while tracking down those who are trying to kill him.

A very lean, sparse novel as though every word has been considered and all extraneous words deleted. An intriguing storyline which keeps the momentum going throughout the book. Quite well written, and will appeal to anyone who likes hard boiled mysteries.