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Dr. Edward Jenner #1
Precious Blood
The nightmare of 9/11 left New York City medical examiner Edward Jenner shattered and emotionally scarred. He thought he'd turned away from forensics--and life--for good, but the mutilation murder of a college student is pulling him back. The body of a young woman, nailed to the wall of her East Village apartment, has Jenner convinced that there's a serial killer prowling the city--and a second horrific murder only confirms his most terrible fears. The desperate hunt for a psychopath--and Jenner's troubling obsession with a beautiful, frightened woman who could be the maniac's next victim--is pushing the forensic expert to the limits of his physical and mental endurance.
But as the shadows deepen it gets harder to tell who is the hunter and who is the prey. And which one will live . . . and who will die.
But as the shadows deepen it gets harder to tell who is the hunter and who is the prey. And which one will live . . . and who will die.
512 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2007
19 people are currently reading
688 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Hayes
68 books267 followersBritish-born Jonathan Hayes is a senior forensic pathologist in New York City. He has lectured internationally in his field, and teaches at New York University School of Medicine; he is a Fellow of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. A prolific and eclectic freelance writer, Hayes writes regularly for the New York Times, New York magazine, GQ, Food and Wine, Martha Stewart Living and many other magazines. In "Precious Blood", Hayes's first novel, a forensic pathologist burnt out after 9/11 hunts a serial killer on the streets of New York."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
July 3, 2008
Jonathan Hayes, a forensic pathologist himself for the city of New York, writes his first thriller PRECIOUS BLOOD from a place of pure authenticity. Though Publisher's Weekly complained of the lack of "...insufficient focus on his protagonist's emotional state...", I found that the essence of that emotional state permeates every fiber of Dr. Jenner's being as he is dragged into the dark, sickness of the killer's escalation into mind-bending cruelty. The book may seem to some slow to build but I found as the serial killer mounted his campaign of carnage, the author used clinical detatchment brilliantly to imbue his characterizations: They are not so much gross-out moments of blood lust as they are a sensory, visceral, tactile explosion of a killer on a mission that parallels Jenner's coming to terms with his own demons in the aftermath of 9/11's senseless horror. Jenner is as human as Hayes himself while remaining a fictional character.
This may be Hayes first attempt at writing a serial killer thriller, but something tells me Jenner's story isn't finished and we can only hope for a series that continues to explore his journey with many more page-turning, realistic stories.
This may be Hayes first attempt at writing a serial killer thriller, but something tells me Jenner's story isn't finished and we can only hope for a series that continues to explore his journey with many more page-turning, realistic stories.
March 18, 2019
Pretty good. Not as good as most of the other books/authors I usually read. I did enjoy it though.
June 26, 2011
I'm usually not a fan of the serial killer genre, but this one's a good solid read. Jonathan Hayes' debut introduces Edward Jenner, who, like Hayes himself, is a Medical Examiner in New York City. Hayes has a very deft hand; he puts in just enough detail, about pathology and about life in his beloved New York, to keep the reader's interest without slowing the story down.
The main thing that makes or breaks a serial killer novel is the killer himself. At first I was afraid Hayes' villain, who starts off by literally nailing a pretty young college student to the wall of her apartment, was going to be a "behold my power and glory" nutcase lifted straight out of RED DRAGON. Eventually, however,he gets his own scary voice and his own twisted backstory.
Highly Recommended.
The main thing that makes or breaks a serial killer novel is the killer himself. At first I was afraid Hayes' villain, who starts off by literally nailing a pretty young college student to the wall of her apartment, was going to be a "behold my power and glory" nutcase lifted straight out of RED DRAGON. Eventually, however,he gets his own scary voice and his own twisted backstory.
Highly Recommended.
September 27, 2021
I can't read digitally during work so I have been scrounging through what paperbacks are accessible, leading me to some mid-2000's pulp. The first "I gotta have something to read or I'll die" paperback was Precious Blood by Jonathan Hayes. One of my clients very kindly gave this to me since she was getting rid of her father's old books. Predictably, the 99 year old war vet with dementia who used to own this book has more interesting, personal, and heartfelt stories to tell than Precious Blood.
I could get through this book because something in my head, while not being terribly impressed with it, will always be able to read a serial killer story. For the same reason I spent most of 2018 watching every single prodecural detective show on Netflix (and from any country, in any language- I covered a lot of bases), I was able to blaze through Precious Blood during work and not be bored. If you're someone who will basically read any serial killer novel, and get some enjoyment even for just comparing it to the dozens of others you've read, you might find this can help you pass the time. But I wouldn't recommend anyone go out of their way to read this.
Pros:
-Decently written, the author is a forensic pathologist so all of the forensic/autopsy stuff seemed legit. I wouldn't have minded more, because the stuff in between was kinda drab.
-The kidnapped gal does get at least a small gesture of revenge against the serial killer, however tiny. She is not a total damsel in distress.
-Having a fun time seeing the killer set up the whole murder around Catholic Saints, which are the Pokemon of the religious world. One can be into saints like one is into baseball cards,
Cons:
-Multiple gorgeous thin white women being terribly murdered and their bodies put on display- it's honestly boring- look, I watched so many detective shows. This book could have been ONE episode of CSI: New York. MAYBE a two-parter because they like to stretch the serial killers out. But when a book takes four or five times as long to get thru but still gives you the exact content of one episode of a detective show, or a decent detective movie, you really start to want more out of your book experiences. And all I got was a bunch of dead college girls- AGAIN!
-If you are sick to death of religious-mania serial killers I got some bad news! This guy has no other personality traits and every journey inside his head is essentially "can't believe these slutty girls, I had better purify them." It's uninspired. We've seen this guy before and we will see him again. This is nothing.
-The 9/11 stuff is also uninspired. Look, I get it- even at age 10 I remember the shock and fear that people felt, and we lived across the entire country. This is a horrific thing to witness, I can't imagine what it must have been like in New York at the time. But Jenner's PTSD is about as impersonal as you can get. Absolutely nothing I couldn't write myself, as someone who experienced 9/11 as a story on the news at age 10 and all of the adults around me being freaked out. There isn't even an event that bothered him, just general 9/11 memories. It is barely part of the story and adds no depth.
- This Jenner dude is boring as heck. Unappealing, uninteresting, bland. Look, I'm not immune to the "young woman in my t-shirt teaches me about tenderness and love and saves me" fantasy. I actually loved it in Lady in the Water. We all want to be cuddled by someone beautiful and we all want to be loved and treated with compassion and I think this fantasy appeals to so many people because so many of us crave that level of acceptance on some level. But Jenner is such a boring-ass blank slate that the only reason it could happen here is poor Ana's trauma with being almost killed by a serial killer, and how is that flirty or fun or any good at all? I guess this character really is just a means for middle aged white men who lead totally unremarkable lives to project onto, because this man has nothing besides his mild interst in aromatherapy, which is only mentioned once.
-It ends as abruptly as a 40's black and white romance movie, which I suppose means he wants us to read the next book, but unless I happen to find book #2 on one of my client's bookshelves that probably won't happen. Sorry bud.
I could get through this book because something in my head, while not being terribly impressed with it, will always be able to read a serial killer story. For the same reason I spent most of 2018 watching every single prodecural detective show on Netflix (and from any country, in any language- I covered a lot of bases), I was able to blaze through Precious Blood during work and not be bored. If you're someone who will basically read any serial killer novel, and get some enjoyment even for just comparing it to the dozens of others you've read, you might find this can help you pass the time. But I wouldn't recommend anyone go out of their way to read this.
Pros:
-Decently written, the author is a forensic pathologist so all of the forensic/autopsy stuff seemed legit. I wouldn't have minded more, because the stuff in between was kinda drab.
-The kidnapped gal does get at least a small gesture of revenge against the serial killer, however tiny. She is not a total damsel in distress.
-Having a fun time seeing the killer set up the whole murder around Catholic Saints, which are the Pokemon of the religious world. One can be into saints like one is into baseball cards,
Cons:
-Multiple gorgeous thin white women being terribly murdered and their bodies put on display- it's honestly boring- look, I watched so many detective shows. This book could have been ONE episode of CSI: New York. MAYBE a two-parter because they like to stretch the serial killers out. But when a book takes four or five times as long to get thru but still gives you the exact content of one episode of a detective show, or a decent detective movie, you really start to want more out of your book experiences. And all I got was a bunch of dead college girls- AGAIN!
-If you are sick to death of religious-mania serial killers I got some bad news! This guy has no other personality traits and every journey inside his head is essentially "can't believe these slutty girls, I had better purify them." It's uninspired. We've seen this guy before and we will see him again. This is nothing.
-The 9/11 stuff is also uninspired. Look, I get it- even at age 10 I remember the shock and fear that people felt, and we lived across the entire country. This is a horrific thing to witness, I can't imagine what it must have been like in New York at the time. But Jenner's PTSD is about as impersonal as you can get. Absolutely nothing I couldn't write myself, as someone who experienced 9/11 as a story on the news at age 10 and all of the adults around me being freaked out. There isn't even an event that bothered him, just general 9/11 memories. It is barely part of the story and adds no depth.
- This Jenner dude is boring as heck. Unappealing, uninteresting, bland. Look, I'm not immune to the "young woman in my t-shirt teaches me about tenderness and love and saves me" fantasy. I actually loved it in Lady in the Water. We all want to be cuddled by someone beautiful and we all want to be loved and treated with compassion and I think this fantasy appeals to so many people because so many of us crave that level of acceptance on some level. But Jenner is such a boring-ass blank slate that the only reason it could happen here is poor Ana's trauma with being almost killed by a serial killer, and how is that flirty or fun or any good at all? I guess this character really is just a means for middle aged white men who lead totally unremarkable lives to project onto, because this man has nothing besides his mild interst in aromatherapy, which is only mentioned once.
-It ends as abruptly as a 40's black and white romance movie, which I suppose means he wants us to read the next book, but unless I happen to find book #2 on one of my client's bookshelves that probably won't happen. Sorry bud.
January 28, 2022
He knows a lot about investigations & crimes! Love it! 🩸🩸🩸
“I'm a forensic pathologist; this means that I examine the bodies of those who have died in unnatural, violent or suspicious circumstances. Nights, I write; I'm working on my third novel, and have written a lot for magazines and newspapers.” Dr Jonathan Hayes
“I'm a forensic pathologist; this means that I examine the bodies of those who have died in unnatural, violent or suspicious circumstances. Nights, I write; I'm working on my third novel, and have written a lot for magazines and newspapers.” Dr Jonathan Hayes
December 22, 2011
Ah, the serial killer. That sociopathic individual that gives Americans such a delicious thrill. I'm not sure what it says about us as a people that we are so fascinated with sick, twisted, violent death, but given the number of books, movies, and true crime shows on the subject, we seem to have a never-ending curiosity.
I will admit to this morbid fascination in myself. I like to think that my interest is as a result of my profound desire to understand the human mind, but I suspect there is a fair amount of of rubbernecker syndrome as well. It's almost as though we (I) want to be shocked and horrified. Well, if revulsion and horror is what you are looking for, then you could do worse than to pick up a copy of Jonathan Hayes book, Precious Blood.
The book centers around Dr. Edward Jenner, a former pathologist with the New York City police who had to retire after the daily horror of trying to identify 9-11 victims caused him to have a breakdown. Now living off his savings, he agrees to take a job as an independent pathologist in the murder of the daughter of a friend-of-a-friend. The murder scene is obviously staged, the victim nailed upside down on the wall. Her roommate, Ana, managed to get away, but not before seeing the killer-and him seeing her. Afraid for her safety, Jenner takes her in until his friend, Ana's uncle, could return. It soon become apparent that this was not the first time this killer has struck, and they soon have new cases to investigate as well. Jenner, while not having any real authority in the case, continues to investigate, his investigation gaining more urgency once he begins having feelings for Ana.
As thrillers go, this one was pretty good. The killer's religious motivation is not exactly original, but it did have a different twist on the theme than most books. Jenner's character is fairly well-developed, though his relationship with Ana does not really feel entirely authentic. The final show-down is suspenseful, and the ending satisfying. While there is nothing earth-shattering about Precious Blood, as popcorn books go it does its job admirably.
I will admit to this morbid fascination in myself. I like to think that my interest is as a result of my profound desire to understand the human mind, but I suspect there is a fair amount of of rubbernecker syndrome as well. It's almost as though we (I) want to be shocked and horrified. Well, if revulsion and horror is what you are looking for, then you could do worse than to pick up a copy of Jonathan Hayes book, Precious Blood.
The book centers around Dr. Edward Jenner, a former pathologist with the New York City police who had to retire after the daily horror of trying to identify 9-11 victims caused him to have a breakdown. Now living off his savings, he agrees to take a job as an independent pathologist in the murder of the daughter of a friend-of-a-friend. The murder scene is obviously staged, the victim nailed upside down on the wall. Her roommate, Ana, managed to get away, but not before seeing the killer-and him seeing her. Afraid for her safety, Jenner takes her in until his friend, Ana's uncle, could return. It soon become apparent that this was not the first time this killer has struck, and they soon have new cases to investigate as well. Jenner, while not having any real authority in the case, continues to investigate, his investigation gaining more urgency once he begins having feelings for Ana.
As thrillers go, this one was pretty good. The killer's religious motivation is not exactly original, but it did have a different twist on the theme than most books. Jenner's character is fairly well-developed, though his relationship with Ana does not really feel entirely authentic. The final show-down is suspenseful, and the ending satisfying. While there is nothing earth-shattering about Precious Blood, as popcorn books go it does its job admirably.
October 30, 2012
A very fast-paced and chilling thriller. This was an excellent debut for Jonathan Hayes. Before I had even read the book I was aware that the author was a forensic pathologist. The detail of the investigation is profound and obviously from a man with common knowledge of this expertise, however the way in which the novel is written enables many readers to take it all in and become understanding and captivated by it all. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and hope to find that the author has written again. I'll definitely be looking up more of his books in the future!!!
March 22, 2015
This was a good mystery that kept me turning pages trying to find out what would happen next. There were times when I found both the main characters frustrating and annoying, but I was caught off guard by how much I cared about them and wanted them to survive when they were squaring off against the killer.I know wasn't that realistic the way the cops handled things and reacted, but after all it's a work of fiction, I don't think that diminishes the book in any way. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys thrillers, and I'm glad I took a chance on this author.
October 23, 2011
Engrossing thriller, finished it in one week which is pretty quick for me. Enjoyable, haunted characters, and a chilling, super-creepy villain. If you enjoy the genre, you'll enjoy Precious Blood. There were a few pieces of the story I found to be unnecessary, and I'm not sure how I feel about Jenner overall; which is why I resisted a five-star rating.
September 3, 2008
new author, new character i WANT to read more about!
dr edward jenner has amazing potential in being the 'newest crime detective' in the form of a forensic pathologist.
GREAT read! i want mORE@!!! totally twisted plot and i LOVED the references to 'home'(somerset,pa)even if they werent accurate!
dr edward jenner has amazing potential in being the 'newest crime detective' in the form of a forensic pathologist.
GREAT read! i want mORE@!!! totally twisted plot and i LOVED the references to 'home'(somerset,pa)even if they werent accurate!
May 27, 2008
Derivative and cliche.
April 13, 2011
After the big reveal 86% of the way thru I gave up. I had no idea who that person was and was waiting on that reveal to make or break this book. Eager to start on something else. Next!
April 2, 2020
Dr. Edward Jenner is a pathologist. He worked for the city of New York until after 9-11, which left him emotionally scarred. Now he makes his living consulting and occasionally lecturing. His latest case is that of a young girl who has been horrifically murdered; tortured and her body nailed to the wall. Her parents have hired him to use his expertise in addition to that of the forensic office to find out what happened.
When the killer left, he didn't realize that the girl's roommate was also in the apartment. Ana De Jong, managed to flee by the fire escape; the killer saw her too late once she was on the ground. She saw him and is able to give the police a description, although she is traumatized and feels that he will come after her as well.
Jenner has problems from the start. Although he still has many friends in the medical examiner's office from his time there, the head of the office dislikes him intensely and fired him a year ago. Any help given him has to be done under the radar. The policeman in charge of the case, Roggetti, is willing to work with him. Soon, it is apparent that this is not a singular murder but one in a series. Each features a young woman brutally tortured before her death.
Jenner has the insight that the killer is following the deaths of various saints and kills on that saint's day. Ana has come to him for help and he is protecting her, although there seems to be a romantic relationship starting there as well. That fact gives Jenner a personal stake in finding the killer before he can strike again.
This is the debut novel of an author who is a pathologist himself. His expertise with the procedures gives the book more authority but there are issues as well. It is fairly unbelievable that the police would decide to work hand in hand with an man who is not associated with either the police or the medical examiner's office. It is also unlikely that the experience of being a pathologist would make one able to carry out a high stakes murder investigation. That was the biggest problem I found with the book. Otherwise, it was an impressive debut. The ending is particularly suspenseful and the reader will be affected by this killer. This book is recommended for mystery readers.
When the killer left, he didn't realize that the girl's roommate was also in the apartment. Ana De Jong, managed to flee by the fire escape; the killer saw her too late once she was on the ground. She saw him and is able to give the police a description, although she is traumatized and feels that he will come after her as well.
Jenner has problems from the start. Although he still has many friends in the medical examiner's office from his time there, the head of the office dislikes him intensely and fired him a year ago. Any help given him has to be done under the radar. The policeman in charge of the case, Roggetti, is willing to work with him. Soon, it is apparent that this is not a singular murder but one in a series. Each features a young woman brutally tortured before her death.
Jenner has the insight that the killer is following the deaths of various saints and kills on that saint's day. Ana has come to him for help and he is protecting her, although there seems to be a romantic relationship starting there as well. That fact gives Jenner a personal stake in finding the killer before he can strike again.
This is the debut novel of an author who is a pathologist himself. His expertise with the procedures gives the book more authority but there are issues as well. It is fairly unbelievable that the police would decide to work hand in hand with an man who is not associated with either the police or the medical examiner's office. It is also unlikely that the experience of being a pathologist would make one able to carry out a high stakes murder investigation. That was the biggest problem I found with the book. Otherwise, it was an impressive debut. The ending is particularly suspenseful and the reader will be affected by this killer. This book is recommended for mystery readers.
June 18, 2017
For a debut novel, Precious Blood exceeded my expectations. Medical examiner Edward Jenner was hired to investigate the exceedingly gruesome murder of a young woman in New York City. Needless to say, other murders follow and as the numbers mount, the severity of cruelty increases. There are decapitated heads soaking in deep puddles of milk, pole impalements and a creative new use for an ice cream scooper other than dipping ice cream.
Jenner is forbidden to investigate any of the other murders due to the fact that he stole the chief coroner’s girlfriend. Jenner investigates anyway because the one victim who got away, Ana De Jong, chooses to live with him. Jenner tries to solve the case before the killer gets to his beloved Ana.
Maybe this sounds like just another forensic suspense thriller. Not so.
Jonathan Hayes is a new voice in the genre. His narrative is unlike any other and he does an excellent job of drawing the reader in. The hook is that Jonathan Hayes reveals very little about the killer. The killer is dubbed “The Inquisitor” and all we know about the guy is the fact that he’s a guy. Hayes leaves the details up to you. Even on the last page we are left to wonder. The Inquisitor could be anyone. He can have any face. He has every face. He has the face lying next to you. He’s every person you can conjure. The technique of revealing very little information works very well in film as well as in novels.
I made the mistake of reading this late at night. Violent icy shivers plagued me in spite of an electric blanket, a duvet and four additional layers of bedclothes. As I write this, I’m stifling a yawn. I’m two days now without sleep. I’m thinking of seeking professional help. Well done Jonathan Hayes. Very well done indeed.
This is my second time reading this book. It still fits like a tailored concrete suit now ten years later and donned backwards.
Jenner is forbidden to investigate any of the other murders due to the fact that he stole the chief coroner’s girlfriend. Jenner investigates anyway because the one victim who got away, Ana De Jong, chooses to live with him. Jenner tries to solve the case before the killer gets to his beloved Ana.
Maybe this sounds like just another forensic suspense thriller. Not so.
Jonathan Hayes is a new voice in the genre. His narrative is unlike any other and he does an excellent job of drawing the reader in. The hook is that Jonathan Hayes reveals very little about the killer. The killer is dubbed “The Inquisitor” and all we know about the guy is the fact that he’s a guy. Hayes leaves the details up to you. Even on the last page we are left to wonder. The Inquisitor could be anyone. He can have any face. He has every face. He has the face lying next to you. He’s every person you can conjure. The technique of revealing very little information works very well in film as well as in novels.
I made the mistake of reading this late at night. Violent icy shivers plagued me in spite of an electric blanket, a duvet and four additional layers of bedclothes. As I write this, I’m stifling a yawn. I’m two days now without sleep. I’m thinking of seeking professional help. Well done Jonathan Hayes. Very well done indeed.
This is my second time reading this book. It still fits like a tailored concrete suit now ten years later and donned backwards.
August 6, 2022
A tense thriller, beautifully written and well-researched
Dr. Jonathan Hayes is a seasoned medical examiner, a brilliant storyteller and a true New Yorker. His narrative voice reflects these facts; his prose is in turns gritty, sober, and hilarious. Dr. Jenner is an appealing, relatable character whose journey is both harrowing and fascinating. This was a fun, exciting read. I recommend it.
Dr. Jonathan Hayes is a seasoned medical examiner, a brilliant storyteller and a true New Yorker. His narrative voice reflects these facts; his prose is in turns gritty, sober, and hilarious. Dr. Jenner is an appealing, relatable character whose journey is both harrowing and fascinating. This was a fun, exciting read. I recommend it.
November 17, 2025
For most of the book, I was a bit bored.
I did not like the ‘relationship’ that blossomed, but maybe that was the point.
It only really captured my attention in the last 100 pages (so 3/4 of the way in).
Even so, the ending was so abrupt.
It wasn’t a bad book by any means, but didn’t capture my attention enough.
I did not like the ‘relationship’ that blossomed, but maybe that was the point.
It only really captured my attention in the last 100 pages (so 3/4 of the way in).
Even so, the ending was so abrupt.
It wasn’t a bad book by any means, but didn’t capture my attention enough.
October 17, 2017
This is a really good book about a retired pathologist who gets dragged into a case. Really interesting character, great plot that moves along well. It's the first book I've read by Jonathan Hayes and I will definitely be reading more.
April 20, 2025
I liked the story line. A retired medical examiner is asked to look into a case by a family friend. He’s very good at what he does and picks up in many misses clues about the killer. The attraction between young girl and him is unrealistic but whatever. He dies follow the trail to find the killer
May 8, 2017
Page turner :-)
June 20, 2017
A well written book that kept my attention all the way through.
Read
November 14, 2019Didn’t finish as I had no urge to return to it. Sorry not for me at the moment
December 13, 2020
I tried and tried to get into this book and I just couldn't. Finally I've decided to not waste my time any longer. I will gladly mail this book to anyone for free. It definitely was not for me.
February 10, 2024
Readable, but very predictable. Follows generic religious nutjob kills attractive young women pattern, with some unnecessary sexualisation of the surviving victim
October 18, 2015
Diese Rezension (falls man das, was ich mir hier jetzt aus den Fingern sauge, so nennen kann) – und eine weitere desselben Kalibers schiebe ich schon eine Weile vor mir her, weil ich ehrlich gesagt, so überhaupt nicht weiß, was ich dazu schreiben soll. Alles schon hundertmal dagewesen…
Man nehme ein Handbuch für Thrillerautoren und die dazugehörige Grabbelkiste für Plots und Charaktere und werfe dann wild in die Thriller-Mixmaschine für Schreibanfänger (es war anno 2008 Herrn Hayes Debütroman) folgende Dinge: farblos-stereotype Protagonisten: in love 21-Jährige Zicken-Tussi, (Mitbewohnerin der zuerst Dahingeschlachteten) und psychogebeutelter forensischer Pathologe, nein, diesmal ist es nicht die zufällig ermordete Familie (gibts überhaupt noch Polizeibeamte im gehobenen, kriminalistischen Dienst, denen KEINER weg gemeuchelt wurde?) oder das einfache, schnöde Ehe-Aus wegen Jobüberlastung, es ist der 11. September, welcher Jenner zusetzt. Wow.
Weiter gehören zum Rezept: Schubladen-Freaks als Nachbarn (ja, irgendein PC- Nerd ist immer dabei, meist programmieren die und werden mit einer total innovativen Software steinreich! Is so!!), klassisch vordesignte Kollegen (kennt Jemand den guten und den bösen Bullen noch nicht?), jede Menge Mädchen-Schlachtereien (gibt`s eigentlich einen Thriller, in dem jugendliche, MÄNNLICHE Opfer vorkommen?), die natürlich auch detailliert beschrieben werden müssen und bloß nicht zu vergessen: der Psycho höchstselbst (das Stichwort „Kindheit“ muss ich jetzt nicht auch noch bemühen, oder?), der diesmal auf religiösen Wahn-Pfaden wandelt. [Und psssst….Krebs hat er auch, also wenn die den nicht kriegen, wäre es vllt. gar nicht soooo schlimm,weil der eh demnächst den Löffel abgegeben muss…aber bei DEEEEM Plot ist ja klar, daß die den kriegen…]
Man könnte die Zutaten jetzt kräftig durch-shaken und mit einer winzigen Prise Kreativität noch irgendwas halbwegs Nettes im 3-Sterne-Bereich draus machen. Diese Prise Kreativität wurde allerdings bedauerlicherweise vergessen, dafür alles lau und kraftlos gerührt -nicht geschüttelt- und aufs Papier gegossen, auf dem sich die Sätze dann zu etwas formiert haben, was weder neu, innovativ, spannend, mitreißend und ansprechend sondern nur langweilig, total vorhersehbar und gegen Ende dann auch zäh ist. Dafür aber, daß es so zäh ist, kommt das Ende dann auch ziemlich apruppt. Wupps und fertig. Sehr seltsames Ende.
Pluspunkt (Ironiemodus): der Titel ist absolut passend, es ist wirklich ein Martyrium dieses Hörbuch bis zum Ende anzuhören, ich war ein paarmal drauf und dran, abzubrechen. Das lag definitiv nicht am Sprecher, sondern auch an den teilweise dummblöden Dialogen: müssen 2 beruflich rivalisierende Männer tatsächlich Gespräche darüber führen, wer wen wann als Bettgefährte einer Kollegin ( die ansonsten nebulös bleibt und gar nicht auftaucht) abgelöst hat, nur um sich gegenseitig eine reinzuwürgen? Ich hasse derartige Plattheiten, zumal sie mit der Handlung als Solcher gar nichts zu tun haben. Und Ana ist auch ohne heimliche Drogenabhängigkeit und kalten Entzug in des Irren Fängen schon nervig genug…aber irgendwas muss ihr im dunklen Verlies ja Flügel verleihen (und ich dachte immer, Drogenentzug wäre eine körperlich ANSTRENGENDE Sache…wie man sich doch irren kann, 3 Tage Keller und gut isses.)
Torsten Michaelis als Sprecher hat seine Sache gut gemacht und bekommt 4 Sterne. Er liest ausdrucksvoll und hat eine angenehme Vorlesestimme.
Eine Hör- oder Leseempfehlung kann ich hier nicht geben. Mag sein, daß es Leute gibt, die mit „Schema F“ auch mehr als hundertmal können, ich gehöre nicht dazu. Ich habe mich wirklich gelangweilt. Das Doofe an diesen Büchern ist: man hört weiter, weil man sich ständig sagt: nee also, das kann es ja wohl nicht gewesen sein, da kommt bestimmt noch was, was ANDERS ist. Bestimmt wird das noch spannend…tja, das passiert aber nie. Und nicht nur nicht bei Thrillern…
Man nehme ein Handbuch für Thrillerautoren und die dazugehörige Grabbelkiste für Plots und Charaktere und werfe dann wild in die Thriller-Mixmaschine für Schreibanfänger (es war anno 2008 Herrn Hayes Debütroman) folgende Dinge: farblos-stereotype Protagonisten: in love 21-Jährige Zicken-Tussi, (Mitbewohnerin der zuerst Dahingeschlachteten) und psychogebeutelter forensischer Pathologe, nein, diesmal ist es nicht die zufällig ermordete Familie (gibts überhaupt noch Polizeibeamte im gehobenen, kriminalistischen Dienst, denen KEINER weg gemeuchelt wurde?) oder das einfache, schnöde Ehe-Aus wegen Jobüberlastung, es ist der 11. September, welcher Jenner zusetzt. Wow.
Weiter gehören zum Rezept: Schubladen-Freaks als Nachbarn (ja, irgendein PC- Nerd ist immer dabei, meist programmieren die und werden mit einer total innovativen Software steinreich! Is so!!), klassisch vordesignte Kollegen (kennt Jemand den guten und den bösen Bullen noch nicht?), jede Menge Mädchen-Schlachtereien (gibt`s eigentlich einen Thriller, in dem jugendliche, MÄNNLICHE Opfer vorkommen?), die natürlich auch detailliert beschrieben werden müssen und bloß nicht zu vergessen: der Psycho höchstselbst (das Stichwort „Kindheit“ muss ich jetzt nicht auch noch bemühen, oder?), der diesmal auf religiösen Wahn-Pfaden wandelt. [Und psssst….Krebs hat er auch, also wenn die den nicht kriegen, wäre es vllt. gar nicht soooo schlimm,weil der eh demnächst den Löffel abgegeben muss…aber bei DEEEEM Plot ist ja klar, daß die den kriegen…]
Man könnte die Zutaten jetzt kräftig durch-shaken und mit einer winzigen Prise Kreativität noch irgendwas halbwegs Nettes im 3-Sterne-Bereich draus machen. Diese Prise Kreativität wurde allerdings bedauerlicherweise vergessen, dafür alles lau und kraftlos gerührt -nicht geschüttelt- und aufs Papier gegossen, auf dem sich die Sätze dann zu etwas formiert haben, was weder neu, innovativ, spannend, mitreißend und ansprechend sondern nur langweilig, total vorhersehbar und gegen Ende dann auch zäh ist. Dafür aber, daß es so zäh ist, kommt das Ende dann auch ziemlich apruppt. Wupps und fertig. Sehr seltsames Ende.
Pluspunkt (Ironiemodus): der Titel ist absolut passend, es ist wirklich ein Martyrium dieses Hörbuch bis zum Ende anzuhören, ich war ein paarmal drauf und dran, abzubrechen. Das lag definitiv nicht am Sprecher, sondern auch an den teilweise dummblöden Dialogen: müssen 2 beruflich rivalisierende Männer tatsächlich Gespräche darüber führen, wer wen wann als Bettgefährte einer Kollegin ( die ansonsten nebulös bleibt und gar nicht auftaucht) abgelöst hat, nur um sich gegenseitig eine reinzuwürgen? Ich hasse derartige Plattheiten, zumal sie mit der Handlung als Solcher gar nichts zu tun haben. Und Ana ist auch ohne heimliche Drogenabhängigkeit und kalten Entzug in des Irren Fängen schon nervig genug…aber irgendwas muss ihr im dunklen Verlies ja Flügel verleihen (und ich dachte immer, Drogenentzug wäre eine körperlich ANSTRENGENDE Sache…wie man sich doch irren kann, 3 Tage Keller und gut isses.)
Torsten Michaelis als Sprecher hat seine Sache gut gemacht und bekommt 4 Sterne. Er liest ausdrucksvoll und hat eine angenehme Vorlesestimme.
Eine Hör- oder Leseempfehlung kann ich hier nicht geben. Mag sein, daß es Leute gibt, die mit „Schema F“ auch mehr als hundertmal können, ich gehöre nicht dazu. Ich habe mich wirklich gelangweilt. Das Doofe an diesen Büchern ist: man hört weiter, weil man sich ständig sagt: nee also, das kann es ja wohl nicht gewesen sein, da kommt bestimmt noch was, was ANDERS ist. Bestimmt wird das noch spannend…tja, das passiert aber nie. Und nicht nur nicht bei Thrillern…
October 28, 2008
Edward Jenner is a former medical examiner living in New York City. He is pulled back into his craft when his good friend, Douggie's niece, Ana, witnesses the gruesome murder of her roommate, Andy. Andy's father hires Jenner to examine his daughter's case alongside the New York City medical examiner, Steve Whittaker. When Whittaker overlooks a vital piece of evidence left on the body, Jenner doesn't. The murderer left markings on the body, markings that resemble Greek writing. The case turns out to be more than Jenner bargained for when a string of similar murders, also with the strange writing, are discovered and the monster comes after Ana.
PRECIOUS BLOOD is not for the squeamish reader. Hayes is a medical examiner himself, and he didn't hold back on the graphic details involved in the deaths at the hands of his psycho killer. Hopefully that statement doesn't sound like a negative point against the novel because it isn't. The detail was very realistic; the kind of detail that makes you double check your door locks at night.
Edward Jenner is a character that intrigues me. He comes into this story with baggage from his experiences through the 9/11 tragedy. His foil is Steve Whittaker. Jenner is a character who is capable of compassion and emotion. Whittaker is cold and unrelenting. Jenner is driven by his relationships with others, even the dead bodies. Whitaker is driven only by his ambition and his desire to be recognized. But Jenner isn't predictable. Often when we have a character who is compassionate and kind and whatnot, we can predict everything that person is going to do, or we know HOW that person is "supposed" to behave in accordance with the stereotype. Jenner doesn't always follow that pattern, and that can be unsettling. Even now having finished the book, I'm still trying to figure out little nuances about Jenner's character. I think Hayes wants Jenner to maintain that little bit of mystery but still be a dependable character. And let's face it, how often are "real" beings truly predictable 100% of the time?
Jun is probably my favorite character in the book. He brings a touch of comic relief to the extremely dark plot. And the idea of the leather pants, the orange fur coat...he definitely stands out.
I'm often critical of female characters, especially if they fall too closely to the "stereotypical" damsel in distress. Ana was too much of a "damsel in distress" for me to really like her. But I regularly reminded myself that she was supposed to be a typical, college-age, party girl. That was supposed to be her role. And she fit that role well.
The plot of PRECIOUS BLOOD was a complex series of events. I listened to this book on audio and I'm not sure if I maybe missed some points at the end, but there were some elements that I thought were left hanging; they didn't quite end up all neatly knitted into the design of the plot. And the other possibility is that Hayes is impressing on the reader that a psychopath can't be explained. There will always be questions left hanging; it's the nature of the beast.
The questions that obviously were not answered for a reason are the ones that I am confident will appear in the sequel to this novel. I don't see Whittaker going away. Hayes left the door wide open for Jenner to return.
The reader for this audio book was Kirby Heyborne. I believe this is the first audio I've heard of his reading, and I think he did an outstanding job. I'm not an expert on dialects, but I was impressed with his changing between Asian, Hispanic and Irish throughout the novel. Heyborne provided each character with a distinct sound. And he infused a very darkly dramatic tone befitting the novel.
PRECIOUS BLOOD is not for the squeamish reader. Hayes is a medical examiner himself, and he didn't hold back on the graphic details involved in the deaths at the hands of his psycho killer. Hopefully that statement doesn't sound like a negative point against the novel because it isn't. The detail was very realistic; the kind of detail that makes you double check your door locks at night.
Edward Jenner is a character that intrigues me. He comes into this story with baggage from his experiences through the 9/11 tragedy. His foil is Steve Whittaker. Jenner is a character who is capable of compassion and emotion. Whittaker is cold and unrelenting. Jenner is driven by his relationships with others, even the dead bodies. Whitaker is driven only by his ambition and his desire to be recognized. But Jenner isn't predictable. Often when we have a character who is compassionate and kind and whatnot, we can predict everything that person is going to do, or we know HOW that person is "supposed" to behave in accordance with the stereotype. Jenner doesn't always follow that pattern, and that can be unsettling. Even now having finished the book, I'm still trying to figure out little nuances about Jenner's character. I think Hayes wants Jenner to maintain that little bit of mystery but still be a dependable character. And let's face it, how often are "real" beings truly predictable 100% of the time?
Jun is probably my favorite character in the book. He brings a touch of comic relief to the extremely dark plot. And the idea of the leather pants, the orange fur coat...he definitely stands out.
I'm often critical of female characters, especially if they fall too closely to the "stereotypical" damsel in distress. Ana was too much of a "damsel in distress" for me to really like her. But I regularly reminded myself that she was supposed to be a typical, college-age, party girl. That was supposed to be her role. And she fit that role well.
The plot of PRECIOUS BLOOD was a complex series of events. I listened to this book on audio and I'm not sure if I maybe missed some points at the end, but there were some elements that I thought were left hanging; they didn't quite end up all neatly knitted into the design of the plot. And the other possibility is that Hayes is impressing on the reader that a psychopath can't be explained. There will always be questions left hanging; it's the nature of the beast.
The questions that obviously were not answered for a reason are the ones that I am confident will appear in the sequel to this novel. I don't see Whittaker going away. Hayes left the door wide open for Jenner to return.
The reader for this audio book was Kirby Heyborne. I believe this is the first audio I've heard of his reading, and I think he did an outstanding job. I'm not an expert on dialects, but I was impressed with his changing between Asian, Hispanic and Irish throughout the novel. Heyborne provided each character with a distinct sound. And he infused a very darkly dramatic tone befitting the novel.
March 28, 2013
The story had a good premise but there were a few too many plot holes for my liking and it wasn't very well planned out. By the last few sentences, I was left with that 'but....why?' feeling - I needed to know more about the killer and his motives for the killings weren't made very clear. Yes, he went through abuse but why the fascination for such elaborate deaths? Characters were left up in the air - the ones you think are key characters turn out not to be (one of them is referred to by 3 different names throughout the book - and I don't think it's on purpose. Editing oversight maybe??).
In a story like this, it's important that the reader and characters connect, form a relationship so that when the going gets tough for them you worry, get upset, wish them well. Unfortunately, none of that happened here. There was no time to get to know the characters. A little silly in places; some plots come out of nowhere. For example, I didn't like the heroin hook in the story. The protags lady friend gets hooked on the stuff (no warning at all). It just seemed so pointless - only because this is not what drove the lady friend, this was not her vice. This only came about half way through the book and ended not long after - however she was 'addicted'. And going through a withdrawal that lasted 24 -48 hours? Correct me if I'm wrong but surely an addiction to a drug like that takes a lot longer than 2 nights? My point is, the addiction part of the book made no relevance to any other part. It did not tie in the story, it did not shape this womans character - it did absolutely nothing. One of the very many disappointing holes in the book. The protags back story seemed to start and finish with 9/11 - HIS main driving force behind this story. Before that, who knows? All we know is the here and now - give or take 10 years. Some authors have a knack of making you feel like you've KNOWN their characters for years right from the first page (Mr King, I salute you!)- unfortunately this author is not one of them.
Having said all that though, I say read it. After all, this is only my opinion. And again, I'll say that this story had the potential to be a brilliant read - and someone else may enjoy it more than I did.
In a story like this, it's important that the reader and characters connect, form a relationship so that when the going gets tough for them you worry, get upset, wish them well. Unfortunately, none of that happened here. There was no time to get to know the characters. A little silly in places; some plots come out of nowhere. For example, I didn't like the heroin hook in the story. The protags lady friend gets hooked on the stuff (no warning at all). It just seemed so pointless - only because this is not what drove the lady friend, this was not her vice. This only came about half way through the book and ended not long after - however she was 'addicted'. And going through a withdrawal that lasted 24 -48 hours? Correct me if I'm wrong but surely an addiction to a drug like that takes a lot longer than 2 nights? My point is, the addiction part of the book made no relevance to any other part. It did not tie in the story, it did not shape this womans character - it did absolutely nothing. One of the very many disappointing holes in the book. The protags back story seemed to start and finish with 9/11 - HIS main driving force behind this story. Before that, who knows? All we know is the here and now - give or take 10 years. Some authors have a knack of making you feel like you've KNOWN their characters for years right from the first page (Mr King, I salute you!)- unfortunately this author is not one of them.
Having said all that though, I say read it. After all, this is only my opinion. And again, I'll say that this story had the potential to be a brilliant read - and someone else may enjoy it more than I did.
August 22, 2012
Precious Blood by Jonathan Hayes: a first novel by the author, who is (or was) a New York City medical examiner (ME). I had mixed feelings about the book. Recommended highly to me by a friend, I loved the locations - I could picture many of them - and that gave me an immediate connection to the book. But I felt the story was too gruesome, which may be strange as I have enjoyed various gruesome Scandinavian crime stories, but I can't help it.
Set mostly in Manhattan, with side trips to Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the story revolves around the search for a serial killer, who is obsessed with making his victims die in the same way that their namesake saints did, centuries before. The main protagonist of the story, Dr. Edward Jenner, is an ex-forensic pathologist, having resigned from his post as a New York City pathologist after working with the bodies of 9/11 victims. He is asked to look into a murder, as a private consultant, by a friend, who is the guardian of a flat mate of one of the victims, and thus becomes embroiled in the whole series of murders. He has a bad relationship with the current head of the NYC ME dept, which causes difficulties in his investigations, but he gets on well with the police.
The flatmate turns up and moves in with Jenner, which seemed a little far-fetched to me, but it created story lines allowing the murderer to also target Jenner. It did seem to me that the arc of the story was a little not so much predictable as just standard. A growing escalation in the crimes, a growing knowledge of who the killer was in his past, and so on. The author did deliver authentic forensic atmosphere, but he left some bits hanging, perhaps to be resolved in the next story - (spoiler alert) - for example, what happens to Jenner after he fails to appear at court when required to?
Basically, it was OK. I don’t think I'll be looking for the seque
Set mostly in Manhattan, with side trips to Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the story revolves around the search for a serial killer, who is obsessed with making his victims die in the same way that their namesake saints did, centuries before. The main protagonist of the story, Dr. Edward Jenner, is an ex-forensic pathologist, having resigned from his post as a New York City pathologist after working with the bodies of 9/11 victims. He is asked to look into a murder, as a private consultant, by a friend, who is the guardian of a flat mate of one of the victims, and thus becomes embroiled in the whole series of murders. He has a bad relationship with the current head of the NYC ME dept, which causes difficulties in his investigations, but he gets on well with the police.
The flatmate turns up and moves in with Jenner, which seemed a little far-fetched to me, but it created story lines allowing the murderer to also target Jenner. It did seem to me that the arc of the story was a little not so much predictable as just standard. A growing escalation in the crimes, a growing knowledge of who the killer was in his past, and so on. The author did deliver authentic forensic atmosphere, but he left some bits hanging, perhaps to be resolved in the next story - (spoiler alert) - for example, what happens to Jenner after he fails to appear at court when required to?
Basically, it was OK. I don’t think I'll be looking for the seque
July 22, 2013
Nach dem bestialischen Mord an ihrer Mitbewohnerin flüchtet sich Ana zu dem forensischen Pathologen Edward Jenner. Dieser befindet sich eigentlich im Ruhestand, weil er die Identifizierungsarbeiten nach dem 11. September psychisch nicht verkraftet hat. Nur hin und wieder nimmt er kleine Jobs an. Als Ana bei ihm auftaucht, möchte er sie so schnell wie möglich der Polizei übergeben, aber sein Beschützerinstinkt siegt. Schon bald kommen sich die beiden näher und so wird die Jagd nach dem Mörder, der auch Anas Leben bedroht eine persönliche Angelegenheit für Jenner. Denn das Morden geht weiter und jedes seiner Opfer verkörpert einen Märtyrer und stirbt so wie es die Geschichten vorgeben. Je näher sie ihm kommen, desto brutaler schlägt er zu.
Die Grundstory ist eigentlich nicht schlecht, aber dafür die Umsetzung. In der Literatur gibt es mehr als einen am Leben gescheiterten Ermittler, aber Jenner war für mich nicht überzeugend. Vor allem sein bizzares Hobby, das destillieren von Düften machte ihn unglaubwürdig. Ebenso die Affäre zu der 20 Jahre jüngeren Ana, die so völlig aus der Luft gegriffen plötzlich zwischen den Seiten auftaucht. Bei dieser Art Romanen möchte ich auch mit dem Opfer mitleiden, aber das gelingt bei der Figur Ana nicht. Sie ist so widersprüchlich das sie mir auf die Nerven fiel. Himmelhochjauchzend zu Tode betrübt, drogen- und alkoholabhängig, dann aber wieder lebenshungrig. Die Charaktere waren schlicht und ergreifend nicht richtig durchdacht. Der Autor hat es meiner Meinung nach auch ein bisschen mit der Produktplazierung übertrieben. Einmal hätte ich mir ja Weetabix als Früstück gefallen lassen, als dann aber noch für Rasierklingen mit dem vollen Namen geworben wurde, war bei mir der Ofen aus. Manchmal ist weniger halt einfach mehr.
Das Buch ist eben nicht der Kracher und andere könnten das Thema weit fesselnder umsetzen.
Die Grundstory ist eigentlich nicht schlecht, aber dafür die Umsetzung. In der Literatur gibt es mehr als einen am Leben gescheiterten Ermittler, aber Jenner war für mich nicht überzeugend. Vor allem sein bizzares Hobby, das destillieren von Düften machte ihn unglaubwürdig. Ebenso die Affäre zu der 20 Jahre jüngeren Ana, die so völlig aus der Luft gegriffen plötzlich zwischen den Seiten auftaucht. Bei dieser Art Romanen möchte ich auch mit dem Opfer mitleiden, aber das gelingt bei der Figur Ana nicht. Sie ist so widersprüchlich das sie mir auf die Nerven fiel. Himmelhochjauchzend zu Tode betrübt, drogen- und alkoholabhängig, dann aber wieder lebenshungrig. Die Charaktere waren schlicht und ergreifend nicht richtig durchdacht. Der Autor hat es meiner Meinung nach auch ein bisschen mit der Produktplazierung übertrieben. Einmal hätte ich mir ja Weetabix als Früstück gefallen lassen, als dann aber noch für Rasierklingen mit dem vollen Namen geworben wurde, war bei mir der Ofen aus. Manchmal ist weniger halt einfach mehr.
Das Buch ist eben nicht der Kracher und andere könnten das Thema weit fesselnder umsetzen.
September 26, 2012
Jonathan Hayes' Precious Blood touches on NYC during the time of 9/11. The hero is NYC medical examiner Edward Jenner who worked throughout the horrifying days after 9/11. The aftermath left Jenner emotionally scarred and he'd left the field of pathology. But when one of his closest friends calls for his help, Jenner is forced back to help in the forensic investigation of the brutal mutilation of a young woman.
The victim is found naked and nailed to the wall. Jenner is certain that there is a serial killer prowling NYC. Jenner has taken it upon himself to help his friend's niece, the victim's roommate and a witness to the crime. The young woman's stay brings about all sorts of complications for Jenner - in his personal life and professional - and draws the attention of the dangerous and unstable killer.
While I enjoy a certain amount of violence and action in my thrillers, my threshold for gore is quite low. As far as graphic violence goes, Precious Blood is quite explicit. That was something that kept me from fully enjoying the novel. On the other hand, the plot is complex and the lead characters are well fleshed out. If you enjoy the grittier, violent, thrillers, then Precious Blood will give deliver both in excitement and thrills. It has the added bonus of giving us an inside view of what NYC was like during the frantic days after 9/11 from the point of view of someone who truly lived it.
The victim is found naked and nailed to the wall. Jenner is certain that there is a serial killer prowling NYC. Jenner has taken it upon himself to help his friend's niece, the victim's roommate and a witness to the crime. The young woman's stay brings about all sorts of complications for Jenner - in his personal life and professional - and draws the attention of the dangerous and unstable killer.
While I enjoy a certain amount of violence and action in my thrillers, my threshold for gore is quite low. As far as graphic violence goes, Precious Blood is quite explicit. That was something that kept me from fully enjoying the novel. On the other hand, the plot is complex and the lead characters are well fleshed out. If you enjoy the grittier, violent, thrillers, then Precious Blood will give deliver both in excitement and thrills. It has the added bonus of giving us an inside view of what NYC was like during the frantic days after 9/11 from the point of view of someone who truly lived it.
March 17, 2013
Precious Blood By Jonathan Hayes. ....
WOW.
I found this book at Dollar Tree, actually, and I am SO glad that I picked it up!
Kathy Reichs says:
"Taut and chilling, a fast-paced thriller, written by a real player in the game of forensic sleuthing"
And she's right!
Edward Jenner is an ex Medical Examiner, who afer 9/11 goes through a period of severe depression, and emotional turmoil.
He is brought back into the forensic department as a personal favor, and ends up helping in the race to catch a serial killer.
There is a description of 9/11 in this book, that is absolutely true to the date.
I remember 9/11 like it was yesterday. I live in Utah, and remember the screens, the pictures, the horror.. and the description of that morning in this book, put those visions right back into my head, it is that good.
The ending?
INCREDIBLE!
I was nail biting for the last several chapters and trust me, you will be too!
I don't want to spoil anything but you will be on the edge, waiting to see what sort of damage is done when, or IF Jenner reaches this final victim in time.
It's urgent, and Soooo Creepy!
This book should not have been in the dollar store where I found it, and I think its definitely worth buying. I will read again for sure.
- CJ
WOW.
I found this book at Dollar Tree, actually, and I am SO glad that I picked it up!
Kathy Reichs says:
"Taut and chilling, a fast-paced thriller, written by a real player in the game of forensic sleuthing"
And she's right!
Edward Jenner is an ex Medical Examiner, who afer 9/11 goes through a period of severe depression, and emotional turmoil.
He is brought back into the forensic department as a personal favor, and ends up helping in the race to catch a serial killer.
There is a description of 9/11 in this book, that is absolutely true to the date.
I remember 9/11 like it was yesterday. I live in Utah, and remember the screens, the pictures, the horror.. and the description of that morning in this book, put those visions right back into my head, it is that good.
The ending?
INCREDIBLE!
I was nail biting for the last several chapters and trust me, you will be too!
I don't want to spoil anything but you will be on the edge, waiting to see what sort of damage is done when, or IF Jenner reaches this final victim in time.
It's urgent, and Soooo Creepy!
This book should not have been in the dollar store where I found it, and I think its definitely worth buying. I will read again for sure.
- CJ
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