De Cock en de dwaze maagden by A.C. Baantjer

Why read the book?

A young woman comes to the old Warmoesstraat station to report that her boyfriend has disappeared. At first it looks like the result of a simple break-up. It soon grows into a difficult case of death among young women.

De Cock himself says he has never had such a mysterious case in his hands. Why did the young woman's boyfriend go into hiding? What are her ties to three other young women who live on the Herengracht?

There are more questions still. What part does a squat on the Binnenkant play in their lives? Why does a police commissioner in Hilversum shield a suspect? And are the women victims or culprits?

Favourite quote

What I Loved

This case keeps its secrets well, and De Cock's own admission that it baffles him sets the tone. The interest is in sorting victim from suspect when the line keeps moving.

The Amsterdam locations are used with care, and the puzzle stays open until late. De Cock's patient questioning is the engine of the book.

Key Takeaway

A missing person report can open onto something much larger. De Cock follows the young women's ties until the truth comes clear.

Note

This book is only available in Dutch

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