I really wanted to enjoy The Mouthless Dead – the premise is certainly intriguing, and there’s a definite air of Mr Ripley-style psychological tension woven into the story. But unfortunately, for me, the novel just didn’t deliver.
Set against the real-life backdrop of the infamous Wallace murder case of 1931, Anthony Quinn builds his story around the mystery of an unsolved crime and the inspector still haunted by it fifteen years later. The setup is atmospheric, and the historical details are well-researched, but I found the narrative slow-moving and often lacking in engagement. There’s a heavy, almost meandering quality to the storytelling that made it difficult to stay invested.
While there are hints of suspense and psychological unease throughout, the journey felt more like a slog than a thrill. I kept waiting for the story to kick into gear or offer a new twist, but the path to the conclusion was too predictable for my taste. The resolution didn’t feel earned, and by the time I reached the end, I regretted not giving up sooner – though I did soldier through to the final page.
This book will likely appeal to readers who enjoy slow-burn historical crime fiction and don’t mind a more literary, atmospheric approach. But if you’re looking for a gripping mystery or a satisfying psychological payoff, this one may leave you cold.