Helpful Score: 13
I enjoy the "Bones" television series and wanted to read the books the show was based after. Don't expect too many similarities between the characters. I found them quite different in personalities. Though, that's not to say I didn't enjoy the book. I found it a very good book. The characters were interesting to read about and the storylines all tied in very well. It was a great book and I'm looking forward to reading all the others in this series!
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Helpful Score: 12
Tempe (for Temperance) Brennan is an interesting character. In this, the first novel in the series, she is working in Montreal as a forensic anthropologist. Murder victims are found, she is caught up in the search for the killer, and circumstances get quite dicey for her.
It is well written. I had a quarrel with the story, however. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
It is well written. I had a quarrel with the story, however. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
Helpful Score: 11
I'd really like to say that I loved this book, but I didn't. Generally, medical and science mysteries are among my favorites and, while I will probably continue with this series, I found this book rather rough. The science was excellent and well done, obviously showing the author's knowledge and experience in the field, but neither the characters nor the plot particularly engaged me. Worth reading, just not a great first entry into a series.
Helpful Score: 8
Not sure about this one. It is my first Kathy Reichs book, and I think I was expecting something more like the "Bones" TV series which is based on these books. I found Brennan to be a much less sympathetic character in the book than on the TV series. While the story was compelling, I found the book to be overly dark and violent. Some may like that, but I would have preferred to see more of the brilliant, but socially inept Tempe that we know from "Bones". I may try another in the series, but not for a while.
Helpful Score: 7
I didn't feel much sympathy for Tempe; I'm not middle-aged, I'm not a recovering alcoholic, I don't have children. I didn't learn much of use about the book's setting; street name upon street name does not a description make. I wasn't frightened at any point; the book is the first in a series, so we know Tempe makes it through the book alive. Finally, the writing was a bit over-the-top in places, as is typical of the genre. I won't continue with this series.
Helpful Score: 6
I didn't care for this book. I was bogged down by all the medical/technology jargon and struggled with the French comments. Could have done without reading this book. Nothing like the tv show.
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Helpful Score: 5
Tempe (for Temperance) Brennan is an interesting character. In this, the first novel in the series, she is working in Montreal as a forensic anthropologist. Murder victims are found, she is caught up in the search for the killer, and circumstances get quite dicey for her.
It is well written. I had a quarrel with the story, however. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
It is well written. I had a quarrel with the story, however. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Helpful Score: 2
Tempe (for Temperance) Brennan is an interesting character. In this, the first novel in the series, she is working in Montreal as a forensic anthropologist. Murder victims are found, she is caught up in the search for the killer, and circumstances get quite dicey for her.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
Helpful Score: 2
This is the first in the Temperance Brennan series - I really liked it. Not only is it an intelligent mystery, but the writing is high quality as well.
Helpful Score: 2
this was my first and certainly not last book that i will read by this author.
Tempe Brennen is a forensic specialist. she seems to get overly involved in series of murders and figues out that they are being done by a serial killer.
a good and exciting book
Tempe Brennen is a forensic specialist. she seems to get overly involved in series of murders and figues out that they are being done by a serial killer.
a good and exciting book
Helpful Score: 2
Pretty good read - somewhat predictable but a great airplane or weekend book. Above average for genre
Helpful Score: 2
The only similarity between the TV series "Bones" and this book's main character is their occupation. This does not, however, take away from either.
Kathy Reichs introduces Temperence Brennan (Tempe) while only revealing basic characteristics. Intelligent and competent as a forensic anthropologist, Tempe has a tendancy to make rash decisions and is a bit of a loner when it comes investigating a case. As a divorced mother, she is vulnerable and has misgivings about her personal life. I look forward to seeing how Reichs developes her.
My only negitive comment has to do with all the similies and metaphores that Reichs uses. There are so many of them in the first part of the book that I nearly stopped reading. They are creative and accurate, but there are too many. It was as if Reichs was trying to use all she had just in case this book was her only one.
Kathy Reichs introduces Temperence Brennan (Tempe) while only revealing basic characteristics. Intelligent and competent as a forensic anthropologist, Tempe has a tendancy to make rash decisions and is a bit of a loner when it comes investigating a case. As a divorced mother, she is vulnerable and has misgivings about her personal life. I look forward to seeing how Reichs developes her.
My only negitive comment has to do with all the similies and metaphores that Reichs uses. There are so many of them in the first part of the book that I nearly stopped reading. They are creative and accurate, but there are too many. It was as if Reichs was trying to use all she had just in case this book was her only one.
Helpful Score: 2
Not a bad read. Comparable to Patricia Cornwell. You got a feeling of some things that were going to happen and also that some of the leads just didn't add up. Very quick read that just sucks you in. I also learned a little French!
Helpful Score: 2
Dr. Temperance Brenna, the wry, impassioned director of forensic anthropology for the province of Quebec is driven to unravel shocking acts of violence by reading the bones of the dead.
In the year since Tempe left behind a shaky marriage in North Carolina, work has often preempted her weekend plans to explore Quebec. But when an unidentified female corpse is discovered meticulously dismembered and stashed in garbage bags, Tempe detects an alarming pattern within the grisly handiwork--and her professional detachment gives way to a harrowing search for a killer in the city's winding streets. With little help from the police, Tempe calls on her expertise, honed in the isolated intensity of the autopsy suite, to investigate on her own. But her determined chase is about to place those closest to her-her best friend and her own daughter-in mortal danger.
Reichs is able to capture forensic anthropology to a "T" because that is what she actually does. This was her first novel and I hope she continues to have Tempperance Brennan in many more novels. I would have thought that reading about forensic anthropology would have been a bit dry, but Reichs is able to convey the mystery and intensity into her writing. It is never boring, so pick this up and get reading!
In the year since Tempe left behind a shaky marriage in North Carolina, work has often preempted her weekend plans to explore Quebec. But when an unidentified female corpse is discovered meticulously dismembered and stashed in garbage bags, Tempe detects an alarming pattern within the grisly handiwork--and her professional detachment gives way to a harrowing search for a killer in the city's winding streets. With little help from the police, Tempe calls on her expertise, honed in the isolated intensity of the autopsy suite, to investigate on her own. But her determined chase is about to place those closest to her-her best friend and her own daughter-in mortal danger.
Reichs is able to capture forensic anthropology to a "T" because that is what she actually does. This was her first novel and I hope she continues to have Tempperance Brennan in many more novels. I would have thought that reading about forensic anthropology would have been a bit dry, but Reichs is able to convey the mystery and intensity into her writing. It is never boring, so pick this up and get reading!
Helpful Score: 1
Good book for first time author Kathy Reichs. I love the series Bones but like the character on tv more then character in book. The author got a little long winded in areas and I had a hard time with all the french comments throughout the book. Other then those little things very good story line. I have already ordered Book 2 to see if her writing improves.
Helpful Score: 1
This was a pretty good book. Meticulously detailed and definitely well-paced and exciting, too. Still, it was not exactly what I was expecting after watching the television show, _Bones_. There really aren't very many similarities at all which was fine, I was just surprised. The book was a lot darker and a lot less charming than the show. The book's plot was quite good and had me guessing to the end. Really, my main complaint was that I didn't really like the main character very much... she was a bit annoying and some of her actions frustrated me to no end! Not to mention she wasn't a very good friend or mother. She put things off to often and ignored things that drove me crazy!! But I am interest to see where this series goes, so I will continue reading her books, but I am not dying to read the next installment.
Helpful Score: 1
It really takes a while for this book to pick up, and it's a LONG book. The main character isn't very likeable, partly because she puts herself in dangerous situations. As other reviews have stated, the book has basically nothing to do with the TV show other than the character's name and very slightly, her job. If I could only describe this book in one word, it would be "dry." Once the action does pick up, it is interesting, although it's pretty predictable. I doubt I will continue the series.
Helpful Score: 1
This author is a Forensic Anthropologist. She brings her forensic expertise to the reader. The reader can experience the senses--sight, sounds, smells, and the ups and downs of being a forensic scientist. You may not be able to sleep for various reasons--one of which might be that you just can't seem to stop reading the book.
Helpful Score: 1
Initially, I expected this storyline to lean more toward the actual series "Bones", which is one of my favorite shows. It took a minute getting used to, and found that I enjoyed the book. I am currently on BK 2, Death Du Jour and hope I enjoy it as well.
The only parts I have a difficult time with are the spurts of French, but not something that will keep me from liking the book. I will be able to give a better review of this series once I get a few more read in this series.
The only parts I have a difficult time with are the spurts of French, but not something that will keep me from liking the book. I will be able to give a better review of this series once I get a few more read in this series.
Jeanne G. (IlliniAlum83) -
Helpful Score: 1
Wonderful "Bones" novel. Nice story development explaining how a series of murders gets "tagged" as serial. Good detective work by Tempe in this one, though she puts herself in harm's way and is working outside her circle of responsibility. Towards the end there are some "dry" spots when they are explaining the forensics-- it almost seems like Reichs got near the end and thought 'Oh, I need to put more forensic stuff in here to satisfy those fans.'
So far after reading 5 of this series, this is my favorite! No relationship stuff gets in way of the story in this one, though her ex, Pete, and Ryan are on Tempe's mind.
So far after reading 5 of this series, this is my favorite! No relationship stuff gets in way of the story in this one, though her ex, Pete, and Ryan are on Tempe's mind.
Helpful Score: 1
This is my first book by this author, I have to read things in order- I have heard some call it a disease...
I think her story gets bogged down with all the detailed medical explanations; while realizing the author is in the profession doesn't mean the reader needs to be overwhelmed with things that simply don't add to the plot.
This will probably be the last book on my shelf from this author, bummer too since I was looking for a 'series' to read all the way through- back to the search!
I think her story gets bogged down with all the detailed medical explanations; while realizing the author is in the profession doesn't mean the reader needs to be overwhelmed with things that simply don't add to the plot.
This will probably be the last book on my shelf from this author, bummer too since I was looking for a 'series' to read all the way through- back to the search!
This is the first in the series and it was absolutely wonderful. Reich keeps several mystery themes going, all at the same time.
I cannot wait to start the next one!
I cannot wait to start the next one!
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Helpful Score: 1
Tempe (for Temperance) Brennan is an interesting character. In this, the first novel in the series, she is working in Montreal as a forensic anthropologist. Murder victims are found, she is caught up in the search for the killer, and circumstances get quite dicey for her.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
Helpful Score: 1
First book in the Temperance Brennan series. I have to say I liked this book a lot. She puts in a lot of descriptive forensic procedures in the book which I love. A very likeable main character with a twist at the end. I will defineatly read the next one in the series.
One word- Excellent
The main character, Temperance Brennan, is very different than how she is portrayed on the TV show "Bones". Once I got past that, I really enjoyed the book. I like this version of Tempe Brennan better!
Good story, but overly wordy.
These books are nothing like the TV series, although I now enjoy both. I like that there is a French connection - I get to read the French and know what it says before the translation - although there is not too much French. The mystery is great - sure there is murder and mayhem - but it is more about putting the pieces together than gore. You also get to learn about a lot science and procedure - very interesting stuff, especially when it is not in a textbook!
Good first book for the series. You empathize with Tempe's frustration in trying to convince people that she is right about the connection between the murders and her determination to prove herself to the "brass." Highly recommend.
Good first book for the series. You empathize with Tempe's frustration in trying to convince people that she is right about the connection between the murders and her determination to prove herself to the "brass." Highly recommend.
Excellent Murder Myster Book. At points I thought I had read it before because it was so close to one that J Patterson had written (after Reichs book was published). I liked the little bits of french in it and the culture notes about Canada . . . making it a little bit educational while entertaining. I am looking forward to reading more of her books. TV WATCHERS BE WARNED -- "Bones" is LOOSELY based on these books. This heroine is middle aged, divorsed (almost) and has a college aged daughter . . . unlike the young gorgeous single hollywood character of the TV show.
After seeing the program "Bones," based on Kathy Reichs's book I wanted to "hear" "Deja Dead" while I am doing my crafts. I was a little disappointed the audio tape was an abridged version.
I liked this book and will probably read Bk 2. I liked the character Temperance (Tempe) a lot and would like to see what else she gets into. The book is a little macabre but makes a good murder mystery.
My daughter got this book, said it was slow but really picked up. very good book.
great murder mystery, interesting protagonist
First book of the Temperance Breenen series and a great starter too.
You can always count on Kathy Reichs to give you a fun and exciting read. Deja Dead is no exception!
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Tempe (for Temperance) Brennan is an interesting character. In this, the first novel in the series, she is working in Montreal as a forensic anthropologist. Murder victims are found, she is caught up in the search for the killer, and circumstances get quite dicey for her.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
The book was very captivating with many twists and turns. I really enjoyed it.
This book is a great way to start the Tempe series! It definitely keeps your interest with the twists, turns, and a-ha moments... she just goes a bit overboard with describing events, places, and characters. All in all, a good read. She sure knows her stuff!
This was a very enjoyable mystery read, with unexpected suspense.
In the beginning I didn't like Dr. Tempe Brennan at all. She had a major attitude problem and it was very annoying. I grew to like her regardless of the attitude but found myself at times thinking she was TSTL (too stupid too live). Some of the stunts she pulled were just plain dangerous and truly ridiculous for an almost 50 year old woman. Her interaction with the cops investigating the serial killer, were just rude and unprofessional. It's no wonder the lead cop was threatening to formaly complain to the board about her behavior.
The serial killer mystery was interesting and intriguing so much as to keep you turning pages just to find out who and why. This book has absolutely nothing to do with the TV series. Everything about Tempe is different in the series, she's younger, nicer, single and childless. Maybe that's why I had such a hard time in the beginning, it was really hard to connect with her after watching the series.
The serial killer mystery was interesting and intriguing so much as to keep you turning pages just to find out who and why. This book has absolutely nothing to do with the TV series. Everything about Tempe is different in the series, she's younger, nicer, single and childless. Maybe that's why I had such a hard time in the beginning, it was really hard to connect with her after watching the series.
First in this series; very well-written.
i really enjoyed this book, it was suspenseful and not exactly what i expected
Excellant
If you like watching the television series Bones, this book is a WOW. Deja Dead by Kathy Reichs is watching Bones (because the series was based on Reichs books) only you can tell what the characters are thinking and work on the puzzle yourself as the clues become known.
Temperance Brennan, working in Montreal, Quebec, brings you into an exciting chase. There is a serial killer out there and she is the only one who has put together the clues in regard to there only being one killer, not several. Follow along as she slowly convinces the police force to acknowledge the patterns she sees in the murders. In the process the killer discovers Tempe is the one making the police take notice, and turns her into the next victim on his list.
Temperance Brennan, working in Montreal, Quebec, brings you into an exciting chase. There is a serial killer out there and she is the only one who has put together the clues in regard to there only being one killer, not several. Follow along as she slowly convinces the police force to acknowledge the patterns she sees in the murders. In the process the killer discovers Tempe is the one making the police take notice, and turns her into the next victim on his list.
Enjoyed the book. Really glad that Dr. Brennan in the book wasn't the airhaed as in the t.v. show. looking forward in reading the rest of her books!
Had me on the edge of my seat.
Really nothing at all like the popular TV series "Bones," but an enjoyable read nonetheless. I'm not a huge fan of the author's writing style at times (the tendency to end every. single. freaking. chapter. with a cliff-hanger can get a bit annoying!) but this is a fun, light read. Sort of like popcorn, really, fun but not really nutritionally satisfying. :)
TV show, Bones, is based upon this series. Tempe Brennan, Quebecâs director of forensic anthropology, is in search of a serial killer which has killed her best friend and has her daughter in mortal danger. A slow beginning but fascinating look of working in a coronerâs office. Harrowing plot and characters. Impeccable writing and suspenseful. Looking forward to book 2 and recommended to those who love gripping thrillers.
The story was good but I was a little disappointed in her writing style. This was my first time reading her.
This is the first book of hers I have read! Talk about a page turner. Loved it.
I read this book on a recommendation of a friend, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I found that it took me a few chapters to get into both the characters and the forensics lingo, but was unable to put it down after I had gotten through that. I would say that if you are expecting the characters to be the same as the t.v. show Bones I didn't see it in this book. The main character's name is Temperance Brennan, but that was where the similarity stopped. (This is the only book I've read in the series, so bear that in mind.) Altogether a fun read, well written and difficult to put down.
I wasn't sure what to expect. I'm a big fan of the tv show Bones so I thought I'd check out the books that inspired it. It was an adjustment. Tempe is nothing like the Bones Tempe, but once I got used to it I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more. I'm also a North Carolina native so it's fun to read Charlotte references.
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Tempe (for Temperance) Brennan is an interesting character. In this, the first novel in the series, she is working in Montreal as a forensic anthropologist. Murder victims are found, she is caught up in the search for the killer, and circumstances get quite dicey for her.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
I bought this book over a year ago, but it sat on my shelf. Then I happen to be watching "Bones" on Fox and saw that it was based on her books. I really enjoyed it!
Richard M. (algernon99) -
Tempe (for Temperance) Brennan is an interesting character. In this, the first novel in the series, she is working in Montreal as a forensic anthropologist. Murder victims are found, she is caught up in the search for the killer, and circumstances get quite dicey for her.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
It is well written, but I had a quarrel with the story. I know I am in the minority here--vastly in the minority, I might add. It seems that one of the main ingredients of a modern bestseller thriller novel is that the main character must be in deadly peril. The serial killer somehow becomes fixated on the detective or medical examiner or whoever is the focus of the novel. I hate that. I had to stop reading Patricia Cornwell because of it--I mean, really, how many dang serial killers can there be in Raleigh, NC? One a year it seems, which is how often a new novel came out. And what are the odds that every one of those serial killers would decide they wanted to kill the medical examiner?
So in this first novel, the killer is looking to do away with the medical examiner! Talk about deja vu!
I decided that although the book was fun to listen to, I was through with this series for the same reason I had to quit Cornwell. Then I ran across a taped version of one of the later novels in the series for a very low price when I had just run out of tapes to listen to. I bought it, and am now 3/4ths of the way through listening to it. It's good. It doesn't (exactly) involve the killer(s) trying to kill Tempe, so maybe Reichs isn't a victim of thriller-writer syndrome after all.
At any rate, this is a good story and the ones that follow seem to be even better.
Another good book by Kathy Reichs. Good suspenseful read.
From the author who inspired the Fox television drama "BONES" - Note: the author, Kathy Reichs, is a board-certified forensic anthropologist. Great read!
In the year since Tempe left behind a shaky marriage in North Carolins, work has often preempted her weekend plans to explore Quebec. But when an unidentified female corpse is discovered meticulously dismembered and stashed in garbage bags. Tempe detects an alarming pattern within the grisly handiwork. Her determined chase is about to place those closest to her-her best friend and her own daughter=in mortal danger.
A Tempe Brennan mystery. Her investigation, this time, will put herself and her best friend and her daughter in mortal danger.
Loved reading about Montreal as well as the process of forensic anthropology. Kathy Reichs is great at exposition - I can't stand it when authors have their characters overexplain or do it unrealistically and she avoids it in a subject which requires lots of explanation.
Really good! This is the first book of hers I have read, and I selected it because it is the first of her series. I can't wait to read the next ones!
Temperance Brennan is a forensic anthropologist working in Quebec. She has seen several murders that she thinks are linked, but no one else does, so she decides to investigate on her own to stop a serial killer.
If you like Patricia Cornwell's books, you will probably like this one. Please be aware that the Tempe in these books is not like the Tempe on the TV show "Bones", even though the books are suppose to be the inspiration for the show.
If you like Patricia Cornwell's books, you will probably like this one. Please be aware that the Tempe in these books is not like the Tempe on the TV show "Bones", even though the books are suppose to be the inspiration for the show.
The FIRST book in the series featuring Temperance Brennan who is a forensic anthropologist in the Province of Quebec abd in North Carolina.
A great read for people who also like Patricia Cornwell, as far as the forensics and mystery. There was less gore, but it was also a little less "leave all the lights on," too, if you like that sort of thing.
The FIRST Tempe Brennan book. After seeing the TV show, "Bones" it was great to get the background for the series. This was an edge of your seat suspense/thriller with great forensic background. I'm looking forward to more of this series.
I enjoy the series, books are fascinating. Even more so when you realize this is her actal field.
Enjoyable read. A bit more forensic gore than I like (I don't mind the forensic science parts at all). I liked the main character, but if you're looking for "Bones" you won't see much of her (and none of the tv characters).
First book by this author for me....it was very well written and kept me on my toes most of the way through.
i enjoy the style of kathy Reichs"s writing and a good story
This is my first book by Kathy Reichs. It was a little difficult to get into but once the action started it never stopped and never disappointed. Very good book
Kathy Reichs broke into the murder mystery genre in a huge way with this book. She makes Temperance Brennan seem so real. All her characters are real and fleshed out. You love some, hate some, and chuckle at the foibles of others. Reichs' knowledge of forensic anthropology brings a reality to the scientific scenes, and her feel for people brings a reality to the personal scenes. I can hardly wait to read more of Brennan's adventures.
In the Patricia Cornwell Line. Good new author, great characterand plot. Keeps you interested all the way!
I loved this book, Kathy Reichs writes a very descriptive thriller that holds you to the end. She also paints a very realistic view on the lifes on law enforcement and what it takes to catch a criminal.
She's recently become one of my favorite authors!
She's recently become one of my favorite authors!
Kathy Reichs' first book about Temperance Brennan. Exciting story.
This is my first Kathy Reichs book but it will not be my last! I loved the little bits of technical stuff thrown in here and there!
Similar to Patricia Cornwall's stuff. Temperance Brennan is a forensic pathologist working in Quebec. The writing is good and the character likeable, but this first book in the series is marred by the main character going all Nancy Drew and doing really dumb things in her pursuit of a serial killer the cops don't believe exists.
Great book. The first in the series that the FOX tv show "Bones" is based on. I would recommend this book highly.
I enjoy all of her books.
This is an excellent book. I've been a fan of Patricia Cornwall for a long time, I may like these books even better. Very engrossing story line, and also a very smart read. I highly recommend it!
i went into the book having been drawn to the television series "Bones". i had a preconception of the protagonist Temperance, and i found myself disliking the woman found in this book immediately. However, as i continued to read through it, i could see some of the wonderments that attracted me to the character coming through. i do however miss the rest of the team from "Bones". The book itself was a pretty good murder mystery with a decent conclusion.
Tempe Brennan is a nice addition to Kay Scarpetta. A great forensic pathology thriller.
A great read. Enjoyed it cover to cover. Couldn't put it down.
Love the series of stories about female forensic anthropologist with thirst for field work.
A great vacation read.
I enjoyed this book. It has a lot of details about forensic anthrolopolgy. It is rather graphic in it's descriptions. However, it was very suspensful and I read it in a very short time. I was hooked by it! If you can handle the graphic descriptions I would highly recommend it.
Don't read this book when you're at home alone! It's chilling--but also hard to put down.
Temperance is like Kay Scarpetta with less political savvy. If you like the early Patricia Cornwell books, you will like this one.
From Library Journal: "A superb new writer introduces her intrepid heroine to crime fiction. Dr. Tempe Brennan, a trowel-packing forensic anthropologist from North Carolina, works in Montreal's Laboratoire de Medecine Legale examining recovered bodies to help police solve missing-persons cases and murders. It's clear to Tempe that the remains of several women killed and savagely mutilated point to a sadistic serial killer, but she can't convince the police. Determined to prevent more brutal deaths, she sleuths solo, tracking her quarry through Montreal's seedy underworld of hookers, where her anthropologist friend Gabby, doing her own scary research, is being stalked by a creep. Despite her ability to work among fetid, putrefying smells that "leap out and grab" and her "go-to-hell attitude" with seasoned cops, Tempe is as vulnerable as a soft Carolina morning. When a grinning skull is planted in her garden, her investigation turns personal and escalates to an intense and satisfying conclusion. Except for imparting an excess of lab information, Reichs, also a forensic anthropologist, drives the pace at a heady clip. A first-class writer, she dazzles readers with sensory imagery that is apt, fresh, and funny (e.g., "fingers felt cold and limp, like carrots kept too long in a cooler bin"). Recommended for all fiction collections, this read is sure to be in demand. -?Molly Gorman, San Marino, Cal. Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
Dr. Tempe Brennan, a trowel-packing forensic anthropologist from North Carolina, works in Montreal's Laboratoire de Medecine Legale examining recovered bodies to help police solve missing-persons cases and murders. It's clear to Tempe that the remains of several women killed and savagely mutilated point to a sadistic serial killer, but she can't convince the police. Determined to prevent more brutal deaths, she sleuths solo, tracking her quarry through Montreal's seedy underworld of hookers, where her anthropologist friend Gabby, doing her own scary research, is being stalked by a creep.
Debut Kathy Reichs book. Some decent humor along with the drama.
the book has a lot of details so the reader has to play close attention.
I can't believe I waited so long to read this series! The good thing is I can now catch up by reading them back to back!
graphic in the morgue
A great start to the Temperance Brennan series. I was very please with this book!
SCARY ENOUGH TO KEEP THE LIGHTS ON AND THE DOG INSIDE BUT ALSO A GOOD MYSTERY READ. AS WITH CORNWELL, IT'A FEMALE CORONER WHO IS A FORENSIC ANTHROLPOLOGIST. THE AUTHOR, KATHY REICHS, REALLY IS ONE SO THE BOOKS RINGS WITH AUTHENTICITY. VERY CSI ESQUE. IN THIS BOOK, SHE'S TRACKING A SERIAL KILLER OF 5 WOMEN INCLUDING A PERSONAL FRIEND.
YOU CAN'T PUT IT DOWN. IT'S NOT WHO YOU THINK IT IS!
YOU CAN'T PUT IT DOWN. IT'S NOT WHO YOU THINK IT IS!
Kathy Reichs does it again...wonderful!
I enjoyed this book. I can tell it is her first book, as her style gets better with subsequent books.
TV show "Bones" based on this book.
Dismembered corpses
What the author does with this series: Kathy Reichs started off slow but gets better and better. This is part of the series called the Tempe Brenner â Forensic Anthropologist. This paragraph applies to all books in this series. Tempe is a anthropologist who works for medical examiners in Montreal, Quebec and Charlotte North Caroline
Even though the books are often very detailed in both location and the examination of the remains, the story often moves faster than you expect.
Do you need to read this series in order: YES or you miss out on too much of the back stories.
Triggers: This is a book about medical examiners at its core, so lots of references to dead bodies, some are described in strong detail (in a forensic way).Our anthropologist ends up in some life threatening situations and on a couple of occasions in the series, animals are killed, sometimes gratuitously. Relatives of Tempe often in up wounded as the bad persons try to get to her through her family.
See where the smash #1 New York Times bestselling Temperance Brennan âcleverly plotted and expertly maintainedâ (The New York Times) series all began with Deja Dead, the first installment from forensic anthropologist and internationally bestselling thriller writer Kathy Reichs. Her life is devoted to justiceâfor those she never even knew. In the year since Temperance Brennan left behind a shaky marriage in North Carolina, work has often preempted her weekend plans to explore Quebec. When a female corpse is discovered meticulously dismembered and stashed in trash bags, Temperance detects an alarming patternâand she plunges into a harrowing search for a killer. But her investigation is about to place those closest to herâher best friend and her own daughterâin mortal danger...
What the author does with this series: Kathy Reichs started off slow but gets better and better. This is part of the series called the Tempe Brenner â Forensic Anthropologist. This paragraph applies to all books in this series. Tempe is a anthropologist who works for medical examiners in Montreal, Quebec and Charlotte North Caroline
Even though the books are often very detailed in both location and the examination of the remains, the story often moves faster than you expect.
Do you need to read this series in order: YES or you miss out on too much of the back stories.
Triggers: This is a book about medical examiners at its core, so lots of references to dead bodies, some are described in strong detail (in a forensic way).Our anthropologist ends up in some life threatening situations and on a couple of occasions in the series, animals are killed, sometimes gratuitously. Relatives of Tempe often in up wounded as the bad persons try to get to her through her family.
See where the smash #1 New York Times bestselling Temperance Brennan âcleverly plotted and expertly maintainedâ (The New York Times) series all began with Deja Dead, the first installment from forensic anthropologist and internationally bestselling thriller writer Kathy Reichs. Her life is devoted to justiceâfor those she never even knew. In the year since Temperance Brennan left behind a shaky marriage in North Carolina, work has often preempted her weekend plans to explore Quebec. When a female corpse is discovered meticulously dismembered and stashed in trash bags, Temperance detects an alarming patternâand she plunges into a harrowing search for a killer. But her investigation is about to place those closest to herâher best friend and her own daughterâin mortal danger...
In the year since Tempe left behind a shakey marriage in North Carolina, work has often preempted her weekend plans to explore Quebec. But when a unidentified female corpse is discovered metiulously dismembered and stashed in garbage bas, Tempe detects an alarming patter within the grisly handiwork and her professional detachment gives way to a horrowing search for a killer in the city's widing streets/.
With little help from the police, Te,pe calls on her expertise, honed in the isolated intensity of the autopsy suite, to investigate on her own. But her determined chase is about to place those closedt to her, her best friend and her own daughter in mortal danger.
With little help from the police, Te,pe calls on her expertise, honed in the isolated intensity of the autopsy suite, to investigate on her own. But her determined chase is about to place those closedt to her, her best friend and her own daughter in mortal danger.
When the bones of a woman are discovered in the grounds of an abandoned monastery, Dr Temperance Brennan of the Laboratoire de Medecine Legale in Montreal is convinced that a serial killer is at work. The detective in charge of the case disagrees with her, but he is forced to revise his opinion.
"Kathy Reichs takes the reader from the morgue to the streets f Quebec like a seasoned novelist. Patricia Cornwell's heroine, Kay Scarpetta, has an able colleague in Reichs' Temperance Brennan."
-Linda Heinzman, Jacksonville Times Union
-Linda Heinzman, Jacksonville Times Union
Another great book for the author whos writes the TV series "Bones". You won't be able to put it down!
Elaine
Elaine
Being a fan of the TV series I thought I would give the book a try if only to see where series came from. I was very disappointed by the dark plodding nature of the book. The main character, Temperance Brennan, goes on and on about her personal problems at home, at work, with her best friend: Well, I got so bored with this book that I put it down unfinished. I'll stick with the quirky, humorous cast of the TV show.
GREAT READING
I love the TV series "Bones". As on TV Tempe helps solve the mystery even though her field is the bones. Recommend to everyone. Takes place in Quebec and gives you insite to that city.
Cameron-Ashley H. (BigGreenChair) reviewed Deja Dead (Temperance Brennan, Bk 1) on + 464 more book reviews
One of the best murder mystery writers of today--every one of her books is fabulous and a great read. The main character is a forensic anthropologist who must unravel the murder.
This is the first Tempe Brennan mystery. It's set in Montreal and is one of the best plotted, first mysteries I have ever read. I also think it's her best mystery.
The back of the book reads "Kathy Reichs blasts into Patricia Cornwell te4rritory_and into the New York Times bestseller list - with this critically acclaimed debut novel inspired by Reichs' own career. Dr. Temperance Breannan, the wry, impassioned director of forensic anthropology for the province of Quebec, is driven to unravel shocking acts of violence by reading the bones of the dead.
"In teh eyar since Tempe left behind a shaky marriage in Nroth Caroolina, work has often preempted her weekend plans to explore Quebec. But when an unidentified female corpse is discovered meticulously dismembered and stashed in garbage bags, Tempe detects an alarming pattern within the frisly handwork...."
Okay, that's enough...the rest is up to you...you read it and see what YOU think of it.
"In teh eyar since Tempe left behind a shaky marriage in Nroth Caroolina, work has often preempted her weekend plans to explore Quebec. But when an unidentified female corpse is discovered meticulously dismembered and stashed in garbage bags, Tempe detects an alarming pattern within the frisly handwork...."
Okay, that's enough...the rest is up to you...you read it and see what YOU think of it.
I thought this book could not possibly be as gross and disgusting as the TV series based on it (Bones). I was wrong. I had to stop reading it.
In the year since Tempe left behind a shaky marriage in North Carolina, work had often preempted her weekend plans to explore Quebec. But when an unidentified female corpse is discovered meticulously dismembered and stashed in gabage bags, Tempe detects an alarming pattern within the grisly handiwork-and she plunges into a harrowing search for a killer in the city's winding streets. With little help from the police, Tempe calls on her expertise, honed in the isolated intensity of the autopsy suite. But her investigation is about to place those closest to her in danger - her best friend and her own daughter - in mortal danger....
