Synopsis: A best selling psychological thriller from Monika Feth, translated from German by award winner Anthea Bell. Eighteen-year-old Jenna, daughter of a famous author of crime fiction, is sharing a flat with her friends Caro and Merle when the ‘Necklace Murderer’ strikes for the third time. When one day Caro is found murdered - stabbed seven times with her necklace missing, just like the other girls, Jenna and Merle swear revenge and begin the hunt for their best friend’s murderer. Little do they know the danger in which they have put themselves.

Review This book is a must for older teenage readers who love crime writing and psychological thrillers, as well as, readers who simply enjoy delving into the minds of others. The ostensibly simple plot is explored through a more complex narrative structure that shifts between characters and point of view: Jenna’s story is told through a first person account while an omnipotent narrator exposes the emotions and workings of a criminal mind. Furthermore, Detective Superintendent, Bert Melzig, becomes an intriguing central figure in the hunt to find the killer and Feth develops his character almost to the point of domesticity. That is, we see beyond his role as Detective and witness his weaknesses and private concerns. In fact, the novel’s strength lies in the detailed insight into the psychology of all of its characters, even the marginal ones. Besides conforming successfully to what one would expect of a gripping crime novel,  The Strawberry Picker’ also deals sensitively with the struggles of growing up: sexuality; relationships; parents; taking responsibility. Feth touches upon issues of self-harming and abuse as well as exploring the nature of grief and fear.

Unsuitable for younger readers, this psychological thriller bridges the gap between teen and adult fiction, engaging readers with disturbing events and complex psychological insight.

2007-07-26