by Kathy Reichs

A Mystery/Thriller, 2000 by Scribner, 368 Pages

What I Didn’t Like:

Sort of a warning for anyone not familiar with this series, they are very science driven and detail focused. Not really a problem if you go in expecting it.
Again, a warning for this series, if you are a fan of the Bones TV show it’s important to note that this is NOT the same Temperance Brennan as the TV series. The supporting characters are different, the vibe is different, the setting is different, and Brennan is different.
The way Ryan was sort of sidelined for this one was frustrating. Similarly to the TV show, Brennan’s personal relationships are what adds to the story. Yet in this book, it felt like they were taking a back seat and that was frustrating.

The mystery here is intense and interesting. There’s a lot of elements here that add to the danger from victims who are children to motorcycle gangs. It all adds to the intensity.
The science in this series always shines. Kathy Reichs was a forensic anthropologist and she leaves much of that in her books. The brilliance of this series is in the way the police procedure and anthropology is accurate.
Kit. Of all the family members of Dr Brennan’s that have been pulled in so far, he’s my favorite. I feel like he has lasting potential in the series as they have an interesting relationship and yet he makes mistakes that could continue to get him into trouble.

Fans of science and accuracy in mystery books. Reichs is really unmatched in how much she’s able to teach you ACCURATELY about science while still delivering a satisfying mystery.