Criminal psychologist Kit Franklin and her boss Chief Medical Examiner Andy Broussard love to solve crimes. This time, however, they didn’t know they would be right in the middle of it fighting for their own lives. In the process, Kit discovers a secret about herself that will forever change her life. Andy suffers, too, but learns a huge lesson about someone he doesn’t like.
This being the second in the series, there is obviously some back story that I am lacking. However, the author still goes a pretty good job filling in readers on the highlights of their backgrounds. It is enough that if this is the first book that you read, you can follow the characters and know enough about their history together to be able to follow key plot lines. Much like the way JK Rowling summarizes Harry Potter’s back story through all seven books, DJ Donaldson is succinct in explaining what you need to know about the main characters. There are a few unanswered questions, but that just gives me more desire to read the first book.
As Broussard is the Chief Medical Examiner, there is quite a bit written about his line of work. The author goes into detail when describing the autopsies that Andy performs. While it is very detailed, it is handled tastefully and clinically, not graphic and shocking. It reminded me of watching the autopsies you see on tv on many of the popular crime dramas. If you have a weak stomach, this may not be the book for you. But I thought it was ok. Just don’t read certain chapters while you are eating!
There are really two main story lines in this book – Kit’s and Andy’s. While they do overlap – the crimes they are investigating relate back to one single event in the end – the author does a good job switching between story lines and making sure it is clear who’s story line you are with in each chapter or section.
I enjoyed the few tidbits throughout the book of actual scientific knowledge – besides the autopsy info. For example, when out following a lead, Broussard encounters armadillos. “Their presence made him reflect on what odd creatures they were, the only animal known to contract leprosy and one that when pregnant always bore identical quadruplets.” (chapter 12). I learned some great trivia and it was a fun, yet simple and unobtrusive addition to the story.
I also enjoyed the strong character that was Kit. Many books portray the woman as capable but still needing help. While I don’t see myself as a true feminist, I do appreciate strong female characters that can take care of themselves. Kit is smart, resourceful, and strong. No, she can’t solve every problem by herself – because in reality we do need others to help us – but she can definitely handle herself and stand on her own. Yet at the same time, there was a great quote about real men. “Being a man isn’t defined by taking foolish risks. Real men create things. They go to work every day even if they don’t feel like it. They pay their bills with honestly earned money and keep promises they make. They subjugate some of their desires to benefit others. When things are good, they share with those who are struggling. When they’re bad, they work harder. Real men don’t take the easy way.” (Chapter 13). This is so perfect! I love that the author brings it back to everyday people, and it’s not romanticized. This is truly what a real man, in real life is. This is probably my favorite quote from the entire book.
Overall, it’s a well written book. The plot moves quickly enough that it kept me wanting to read more. There are some great twists and turns. I love how the killer is introduced and followed – very intriguing – but I won’t tell more here so I don’t ruin it for you!
Review by Patti Farrington