A page turner that will keep you guessing to the very end.
Feature image credit: Simon & Schuster Australia
The Bone Hacker by Kathy Reichs is an enthralling addition to the Temperance Brennan mystery series that will keep readers hooked from start to finish. With 336 pages of captivating storytelling, Reichs once again showcases her talent for crafting suspenseful narratives that leave readers eagerly turning the pages. Indeed, Michael Connelly sums up this book as “a thing of clever beauty — smart, scary, complicated, and engrossing from the first sentence.”
In this instalment, readers are treated to the continued but sporadic presence of Temperance’s significant other, Lieutenant Detective Andrew Ryan. Ryan, a pyrotechnics enthusiast, adds an intriguing dynamic to the story and further develops the personal aspect of Brennan’s life. As a board-certified forensic anthropologist, Brennan’s expertise and dedication shine through as she unravels the many complex mysteries presented in the book.
The story begins with a dramatic event during the Fireworks Festival of Montreal, an annual celebration that takes place in late June. A microburst unexpected storm named Clemence strikes, and Dr. Temperance Brennan finds herself facing her greatest fear: drowning. This gripping introduction sets the tone for the suspenseful journey that awaits readers, with twists and turns to match the ferocity of the storm.
As the investigation unfolds, the involvement of the FBI adds another layer of complexity to the case. Something appears to have stirred up a hornet’s nest, attracting the attention of law enforcement agencies beyond her usual sphere. Throughout the book, Reichs introduces several memorable characters, who contribute to the depth and richness of the story, as well as some previously met in other stories. She adds characters and surprise plot twists that will have you taking a deep breath, feeling outrage at a situation or wondering, “How did I miss that?” The sudden departure of Detective Musgrove and appearance of The Monck, two completely different police officers with whom Tempe has to work, is a prime example of the author’s skill in seamless but emotionally powered character development.
One of the strengths of The Bone Hacker is the relentless pace of the plot. Even at chapter 32 of 36, bodies are still turning up, ensuring that readers remain engrossed until the very end. Reichs skilfully maintains the suspense, weaving twists and turns that keep readers guessing and eager to discover the truth behind the mystery
Reichs’ writing style remains engaging and accessible, allowing readers to easily immerse themselves in the story. Her attention to detail when describing forensic processes and investigative techniques adds authenticity and depth to the narrative. Furthermore, the author’s ability to vividly depict settings and scenes transports readers directly into the heart of the investigation, allowing them to become one with the unfolding tale.
In conclusion, The Bone Hacker is a gripping addition to the Temperance Brennan series, showcasing the prowess of Kathy Reichs, who has produced 22 novels since 1997, as a masterful storyteller. With its well-developed characters, thrilling plot, and spiralling suspense, this book is a must-read for fans of Kathy Reichs or the crime/detective/mystery genre in general. As bodies continue to surface and Brennan’s personal and professional life intertwines, readers will find themselves captivated until the very last page. Other similar books you may enjoy include, Cold Cold Bones, The Bone Code, and A Conspiracy Of Bones.
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: August 2023
RRP: $34.99
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