Strip Jack
| Industry | Publishing |
|---|---|
| Products | Books |
Strip Jack is a crime novel published in 1992 by Ian Rankin, serving as the fourth book in the Inspector Rebus series. An audiobook version is also available, narrated by James MacPherson.
The title alludes to the card game known as "Strip Jack Naked".
Plot
During a police operation targeting an Edinburgh brothel, the well-liked Member of Parliament Gregor Jack is unexpectedly apprehended. When his wife Elizabeth goes missing and two corpses are found, suspicion falls on local thespian Rab Kinnoul. Detective Inspector John Rebus feels empathy toward Jack and delves into his network of acquaintances, including Andrew MacMillan, who is institutionalized in a psychiatric facility due to a previous homicide. The investigation uncovers signs that Jack has been intentionally set up to ruin both his public image and political career.
Connections to other Rankin books
- The story introduces recurring figures such as Patience Atkin and police administrator Frank Lauderdale; Lauderdale is portrayed as a longstanding presence, while Patience already has a tense rapport with Rebus.
- Rebus’ earlier involvement with DI Gill Templer in Knots and Crosses partially explains his challenges in forming a relationship with Patience.
Writing Strip Jack
In the introduction to Rebus: The St Leonard Years, Rankin remarks that this novel represents a transition toward placing Rebus within a more authentic Edinburgh environment. A subplot features the fictional closure of Greater London Road police station and the reassignment of personnel to real-life stations like St Leonards.
Reception
The novel was met with high praise: Publishers Weekly gave it a starred review, comparing Rebus to Colin Dexter’s Inspector Morse and emphasizing the richly detailed and immersive setting Rankin created. Kirkus Reviews highlighted its "unconventional characters" and unique narrative approach.