The Constant Gardener

I picked up The Constant Gardener by Jon Le Carre' after several friends had recommended the movie to me (which I still haven't seen). The story revolves around Justin Qualye, an English diplomat in Kenya, after the gruesome death of his charismatic and politically-active wife, Tessa. Justin, who has always played by the rules of English society and whom many would describe as a bore, sets off on a personal odyssey to uncover the mystery surrounding Tessa's death. He, of course, becomes a prime suspect in the murder, and then as he draws closer to discovering the truth, becomes a target as well.

John Le Carre' is a prolific British author, with such notable titles in his collection as The Spy Who Came in From the Cold and The Russia House. Drawing from his own personal experience in the British Foreign Service, Le Carre' is known for his spy novels that are filled with intrigue, suspense and espionage, and in the case of The Constant Gardener, the dark sides of political conflict and capitalism.

Le Carre' is a gifted storyteller. This book is captivating, compelling and complex (any other "c" words I could use in that alliteration?). The greatest trouble I had in this reading was capturing the details of British government and offices. These aspects were not vital for the story line, though, so I became accustomed to ignoring the specifics. It is not a feel good story, if that is what you desire; the ending is frustrating, but exactly what needed to happen (hope that doesn't give too much).

Rating: ****