Past Reason Hated: An Inspector Banks Novel    by Peter Robinson Order:  USA  Can William Morrow, 2016 (1991) Hardcover, Softcover, Paperback, CD, e-Book      Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth Past Reason Hated by Peter Robinson is a wonderful read. Although an older book first published in 1991, no spider webs are hanging from this classic English mystery. It is as up-to-date as any other book on the shelves. No cell phones or computers aid in the capture of criminals; but the police get the job done. Caroline Hartley's life was one of secrets. Is this what got her murdered? She was slashed to death in her own apartment, which she shared with her lover – a woman who left her husband to live as a lesbian. Chief Inspector Alan Banks digs deeply into Caroline's life. Finding various motivations for the murder, he becomes determined to uncover whatever caused her death. Susan Gay, Banks' newest detective on the force, is working with him as they try to unravel the many clues that always seem to set them off in different directions. Gay has her own brush with death. Tension mounts as Banks and Gay, separately and together, interview possible suspects. I had no clue until the last few pages as to who the culprit was. I was so wrong! I did notice one thing. Cigarettes played a big role in the policemen's days. As did imbibing alcoholic beverages while on and off duty. Almost seemed like I was watching an episode of Mad Men. Good book though. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews