Another In The Sin Bin (Press, 19 October 1985)
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Summary: Another In The Sin Bin (Press, 19 October 1985)
Lawrence Sanders’ novel "The Fourth Deadly Sin," published in 1985, showcases the author's hallmark of polished writing and intricately woven plots. The story centres around Edward X. Delaney, a retired Chief of Detectives with the New York Police Department, who is drawn back into the world of criminal investigation when his former boss requests his assistance on a murder case. Delaney, who savours this return to action as much as his penchant for exotic open sandwiches, becomes embroiled in the investigation of a brutal murder. The victim, a psychiatrist highly regarded by his peers, is discovered dead in his office, having been beaten to death with a ballpeen hammer. The case intensifies as the victim's wealthy and strikingly beautiful wife pressures law enforcement for swift justice. Delaney forms a team of detectives to delve into the complexities surrounding six of the deceased's patients, all of whom have shown tendencies towards violence. This premise allows Sanders to blend the mundane with the bizarre, examining the lives of individuals immersed in peculiar circumstances where murder seems a plausible extension of their realities. Among the characters encountered are a agoraphobic, who is fascinated with the occult; an idiosavant; a troubled ex-Vietnam veteran; a young woman facing suicidal ideations; and a guilt-stricken homosexual with exquisite tastes. Each of these figures adds layers of intrigue to the investigation, creating a rich tapestry of potential motives and backgrounds, which keeps readers engaged. Sanders has a knack for crafting compelling narratives that are difficult to resist, characterised by hardboiled American police procedural elements. His adept use of language, evident from the very first line describing the ominous November sky over Manhattan, draws the reader in and maintains momentum throughout the novel. With "The Fourth Deadly Sin," he continues his reputation for producing entertaining literature with a quality of writing that captivates and involves the audience. Ultimately, readers are left contemplating the nature of sin and human behaviour, pondering not just the thematic implications of the titular "deadly sins," but also the myriad complexities of each character's life woven throughout the story.
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