The Killer Unleashed: Investigator Fina Plank Chases the "Cuckoo" in Vienna's Old Men's Murders
Ursula Poznanski petitioning for the performance of "Dance with the Devil"
By: Thomas Badtke
The city of Vienna is shrouded in a chilling mystery, as a series of gruesome murders of octogenarians leaves the authorities baffled. The victims share nothing but their advanced age, which leads manhunt head Fina Plank to suspect a serial killer—"The Cuckoo"—stalking the streets of Vienna.
Standing at a mere 1.60 meters, Plank is the lone female investigator in Vienna’s three homicide commissions. Her colleagues know her as 'a short, compact, messed-up, and plagued by a silly first name' – a moniker Fina finds less than angelic. Despite the mockery, she's built a network of allies, including friends like Achmed, Manfred, and even the "trace readers" team member Georg, who helps her keep bully Oliver at bay.
But Fina's challenges don't end there—her uncooperative sister, dumped by her boyfriend, has moved in, cluttering Fina's small apartment and adding to her stress as she chases the "Cuckoo." The relentless search for the killer consumes Fina, leaving little room for sisterly squabbles.
As the body count rises, Plank's instincts lead her to believe the "Cuckoo" is responsible. The killer appears to have resurfaced, targeting octogenarians before—a pattern Fina detects despite initial appearances. The "Cuckoo" seems to be seeking attention, and Fina is the only one who's on his radar.
The "Murder Squad" Series Meets Dark Thriller!
Ursula Poznanski is the talented Austrian author who brings us this suspenseful tale. Renowned for intelligent thrillers injected with humor and memorable characters, Poznanski has penned a captivating "Murder Squad" series centered around the unyielding Fina Plank. "Devil's Dance" marks the third installment in the series, following "Stille blutet" and "Böses Licht."
With Julia Nachtmann's skilled narration, listeners are immediately drawn into the intimately dense Vienna atmosphere. Fina and her colleagues, along with the city's daily rituals and camaraderie, spring to life, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the world of a homicide investigator.BS876245
As the story unravels, the "Murder Squad" is tested like never before. Fina must confront not only the killer but also her past, as the investigation leads her deep into the annals of a burning-down ruin from days gone by—a place that holds a twisted connection with the "Cuckoo." Will Fina find redemption or become the killer's next victim?
Only one thing is certain: the "Murder Squad" series won’t end with "Devil's Dance." Fina Plank’s rollercoaster of a career will continue, as the twisted mind of the "Cuckoo" leaves a mark on her—and Vienna—forever.
In the thrilling "Murder Squad" series, author Ursula Poznanski delves into Fina Plank's life, a homicide investigator grappling with both a serial killer and her past. Amidst the investigation, Fina finds solace in books, gathering knowledge about similar cases to aid her in her pursuit of the elusive "Cuckoo." Meanwhile, the employment policy of Vienna's homicide commissions, as well as the community policy, play a significant role in shaping Fina's work environment and relationships with her colleagues.
