Marley’s Ghosts was my March follower book pick after a lot of people suggested reading it. When I posted bout it being my March pick, JP himself was very kind to message me and ask if I’d like him to send me a copy! It’s an interesting book with essentially one storyline that I was really interested in and another that I found very underwhelming and, despite likely meaning the opposite, felt like filler.
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As I mentioned above, Marley’s Ghosts essentially tells two stories – a modern-day crime story about an ex-police officer who ends up getting involved in a crime whilst on holiday and also the story of Marley’s past and
Marley’s Ghosts plot – 4.25/5
Marley’s Ghosts’ two separate storylines are interwoven throughout the book. The main story tells of Marley going on a walking holiday to relax, but getting involved in a crime and ending up helping the local police. During this story, Sheerin also tells us the story of Marley’s life as a child, growing up and then his first love.
For me, these stories of his past were far more interesting and emotionally engaging than the modern-day stories. The modern-day story was a fairly basic crime thriller that felt quite relaxed, never really that fast-paced or intense. Whilst embroiled in the modern day scenario, he also has a little bit of a summer romance too – something I did find quite interesting but also something that I don’t think comes to a satsifyig end.
The stories of Marley’s difficult childhood and when he meets his first love are the best part of the book offering genuinely emotional ad itriguing looks ito the life of Marley outside of his work. These interlude stories absolutely add to the story and I felt were essential to actually make the book any good in the end.
Marley’s Ghosts characters – 4/5
Our main character Jake Marley is a relatively interesting character. Having finished his career and now determined to go off and enjoy his life without having to worry about the stresses of work, he oozes a personality of someone who’s laid-back attitude is the personality he’s chosen to take in retirement.
He does crack the odd joke and his confidence in his field both add respectability to his personality and make him a good main protagonist.
Some of the other characters, such as Marley’s father, his two love interests and the police officer in Austria, all have deep enough personalities to make them memorable and enjoyable too, which is the least you can ask for when reading a crime thriller.
Marley’s Ghost final rating 4.25/5
Marley’s Ghosts is a relatively cosy crime thriller with a fairly average crime story but a really powerful and emotional backstory. With solid characters, a main plot that never really gets tense or fast-paced, and, as aforementioned, a genuinely enjoyable backstory to our main protagonist, I’d recommend Marley’s Ghost for those looking for an easy-to-read and enjoyable crime thriller with something a bit different to it.
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