Reviews

★★★★☆: - A very good book that was enjoyable and well-written. The story was interesting and unique. About 80% through, I figured out the plot twist prior in my mind, but the ending was still satisfying. I've enjoyed his prior series, and look forward to finishing this series.

paradox27's review against another edition

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4.0

3.5 rounded up to 4 stars. This book again felt like watching Criminal Minds (or other procedurals), and could be a great TV show. I felt like the characters were well described and given good background stories (although a bit stereotypical) and I'm hoping the second book would expand on this a bit (especially on Jack, Violet, and Kiko). In the first book, we only saw Claire's and maybe a bit of Fitz's characters described more in depth. The case the team tried to solve was original and well made-up, but I knew from the beginning of the book who the 'fifth victim' was. Bit predictable for my liking and sometimes too slow. Looking forward to give the second book a shot and see where that leads.

hear_me_roar's review against another edition

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4.0

Was a good read. Characters were likable and relatable. Book was predictable, but I did like it. Will probably read another of the series.

sjach's review

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slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.5

Unfortunately, I never really came to care about any of the characters, or why the killer was doing what she was doing the way she was doing it. The plot felt very formulaic and predictable. The characters, while all individuals, never developed any depth.
I was disappointed that, with no hint of renewed purpose etc. during the course of the novel, the main character who was ready to retire in the beginning, decided not to at the end. It felt like a convenient decision that would allow the book to become the first in a series, rather than a reflection of the character’s desires. There was never a turning point that suggested she wanted to keep working after all, nor for any particular reason.

The cast of characters were introduced as if you were supposed to already be familiar with them, which I found obnoxious. I felt I was always one step behind or missing something when a certain personal effect or coin was mentioned, as if I hadn’t been clued into its significance. Now I think it was just the author being confusing while trying to clarify ownership of something.

If I hadn’t been reading it with a book club, I wouldn’t have picked it up.

thebookdivareads's review

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challenging dark mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

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