Night Train

This is one of those books that can not be characterized as a single genre. It is a compilation of mystery, psychological suspense, and an exploration of the impact of death and suicide on those close to the victim. Mr. Amis' writing is superb. He uses a concise and hard-hitting style to narrate the examination of an apparent suicide of the daughter of a police officer. I could not put the book down and I asked my husband to read it so that we could discuss it together. As a clinical social worker and psychotherapist, I found it profoundly insightful about the mysteries of death and suicide.

this book is more a philosophical inquiry into human existence than it is a detective novel. try to seek out Janis Bellow's "review" on Night Train - you will be illuminated by her insight: the complexity of Amis' playing field (both of style and theme) here.p.s. linda hamilton's reading is superb! her audio version of the book foreshadows a great screenplay (possibly a movie deal?) for night train.

While Times Arrow is still my favorite Amis, it could only be done once in that style and he must move on. The same goes for Night Train. What is important to objectively remember is the challenge he has imposed on himself. He has chosen to write a book in the voice of an American, female, police officer...that is not a writer, but a person, a non-writer going about telling us not even a story as much as events with some commentary anyone couldn't resist including. That he was able to "stifle" his talents as a writer and the urge to say things beautifully, as a writer would rather than the average person cop he has chosen, is a very dificult task. That he has the guts to move you to be as unfulfilled and left wanting, just as Night Trains "voice" is commendable. We don't get all the answers in life, and in this case, it is comforting to have her company in this reality. The suicide, police department, and surrounding information was also very interesting territory to receive somewhere other than the typical crime-detective offerings.

Martin Amis can be tough to hold on to - especially when he drags out the despicable characters of a LONDON FIELDS, or THE INFORMATION. There is never a question of the genius at work - still, you wanna invite the guy to your sister's wedding so he can meet some NICE PEOPLE. But NIGHT TRAIN is a quick, gentle surprise. A first-person detective narrative that can be read in one sitting and still explores the depths of characters involved as fully as any of his larger books. This is a beauty. I recommend it heartily.