It also reveals that for all his skill as scriptwriter, Cross is above all else a gifted novelist.

The novel is a reminder that the show’s Emmy nomination for best mini-series and Cross’ nomination for best writing were well deserved. He also throws in some deft foreshadowing of later events for those who have seen the TV show.Ĭross’ storytelling skill and deft characterization emphasizes how much credit he deserves for creating Luther–one of the best crime series to show up on TV in a long time. To say more would risk spoiling things for readers, but in this case the journey is as satisfying as the destination. Plus, just because the ultimate ending is known doesn’t stop Cross from adding a few well-executed twists before the conclusion. Indeed, Elba’s physicality, the anguished twist of his face, the mental and physical toll his job takes on him infuses the novelistic Luther. His original Luther was different, but now he says, “Idris is Luther.” He happily acknowledges the extent to which Elba’s portrayal of Luther has influenced how he sees the character. Knowing where the story is going to end up frees Cross to really dive into the character of Luther and to focus on his evolution.Ĭross’ portrayal of Luther in print shows how much the making of the TV show influenced the writing of the book. The Calling showcases Luther in all his complicated glory, exploring how the very characteristics that make him a great detective also carry the seeds of his unraveling.Ĭross admits he struggled with the idea of doing a prequel, worried that fans of the TV show would be turned off because to some extent they knew the ending.īut the opposite proves true. Luther is hunting a killer and a kidnapper. More disturbing, Sarah Lambert was 8.5 months pregnant and the murderer stole her unborn child.

The Calling finds Luther investigating the murder of the Lamberts, a husband and wife brutally killed in their own home.

The calling neil cross