I didn’t see it coming.
Feature image credit: Simon & Schuster Australia
Kathy Reichs’ latest novel in the Temperance Brennan series, Fire and Bones, begins with a jolt, immediately hinting at a multi-layered mystery brimming with action. As fans of the series have come to expect, the novel draws readers into the intricate world of forensic anthropology, but this time, Reichs introduces a notable shift. Though the opening suggests a fast-paced thriller, the story soon settles into a more measured, thoughtful narrative — one that intertwines forensic science with a blend of unusual characters and informative interludes.
Reichs crafts a fascinating plot with Fire and Bones, showcasing her signature forensic detail that has long been the cornerstone of the Temperance Brennan novels. The story takes place in Washington D.C., where Brennan is reluctantly drawn into assisting with the identification of victims from an arson attack in Foggy Bottom, a neighbourhood steeped in history and a past riddled with bootlegging and organised crime. The unusual circumstances surrounding the fire and the history of the district provide fertile ground for Reichs to dig into both past and present criminality, weaving together the puzzle of how these victims fit into a larger, more sinister narrative. Where Fire and Bones deviates from the familiar, however, is in its character dynamics.
Long-time readers of the series will note the near absence of Brennan’s usual investigative partner, Detective Andrew Ryan. His policing role has been taken over by Detective Merle Deery, who brings a new tone to the police procedural aspects of the novel. This shift provides an opportunity for fresh character development and introduces a different kind of interaction between Brennan and the law enforcement world. Additionally, including new characters, like pathologist Jada Thacker and telejournalist Ivy Doyle, offer fresh perspectives, creating an evolving landscape for Brennan to navigate. Doyle, in particular, becomes an unexpected ally for Brennan as the two dive into the investigation, unearthing dark secrets about land owners and the shady dealings surrounding the arson. Their partnership brings an energy to the plot that, while different from the dynamic between Brennan and Ryan, adds a new layer of intrigue.
As is typical of Reichs’ novels, the forensic aspects are informative and engaging. Brennan’s ability to piece together clues from the remains of the victims, followed by detailed research, is central to the story, and Reichs takes her time exploring the scientific process behind the investigation. One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is how Reichs entwines the history of Foggy Bottom with the present-day mystery. The discovery of a fifth body, older than the victims of the arson and wrapped in burlap in a sub-basement, adds a haunting element to the investigation. As Brennan and Doyle dig deeper, the story shifts from identifying fire victims to uncovering long-buried secrets with far-reaching consequences.
Though the novel initially appears to present a straightforward mystery, Reichs cleverly builds layer upon layer of clues, allowing the reader to experience the same revelations as Brennan. The ending brings the various threads together in a way that leaves the reader reflecting on missed clues while feeling the weight of unresolved loss. Fans of the series will appreciate how Reichs continues to evolve Brennan’s world, while new readers will find this instalment accessible and engaging, even with the absence of Detective Ryan.
In Fire and Bones, Reichs delivers a thoughtful and intricate mystery, rich with forensic detail and bolstered by a new cast of characters that breathe fresh life into the series. Though slower paced than the opening suggests, the novel provides an intense puzzle that will leave readers both reflective and satisfied.
Reviewed by Leanne Caune
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Simon & Schuster Australia
Released: July 2024
RRP: $34.95