De Cock en de dode harlekijn by A.C. Baantjer

Why read the book?

De Cock faces a double murder in a known Amsterdam hotel. The two victims are dressed to look like macabre harlequins. He has only two clues, and both come from unexpected people: a six year old girl who could not sleep, and a respected accountant.

Working from these, De Cock tracks down the suspect. But when he finally meets him, he talks the man out of turning himself in.

That choice brings the fury of his superior, Commissioner Buitendam, who cannot understand it. The clash between De Cock's judgement and the rules he is meant to follow runs through the case.

Favourite quote

What I Loved

The two odd witnesses, a small child and a careful accountant, make a strong base for the puzzle. The strange staging of the bodies gives the book a memorable image.

Best of all is De Cock's decision near the end, which shows he follows his own sense of right over the letter of the law.

Key Takeaway

A mystery where De Cock trusts his own conscience over his bosses, even when it costs him.

Note

This book is only available in Dutch

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