What do you think?
Rate this book
Temperance Brennan #1
Déjà Dead
Anthropologiste judiciaire, Temperance Brennan n'aura pas le tranquille week-end qu'elle l'espérait. Convoquée d'urgence, elle doit examiner les restes d'une femme découpée en morceaux, que la police vient de découvrir dans l'ancien parc du Grand Séminaire. A partir de ces éléments macabres, elle tente d'identifier la victime. Les ressemblances entre ce crime et celui d'une jeune fille commis un an plus tôt la persuade de l'existence d'un tueur en série. Cette thèse est d'abord combattue par les policiers mais la découverte d'un autre cadavre réussit à les convaincre. Les meurtres continuent et à la suite d'une erreur du tueur, Temperance se lance sur la piste. Elle ignore encore qu'elle figure en bonne place sur sa liste, comme future victime.
Ce premier roman de Kathy Reichs, qui exerce le même métier que son héroïne, ne décevra pas les amateurs de suspense et de course poursuite. Un thriller dans la veine de l'univers de Patricia Cornwell, avec tous les ingrédients du genre. --Claude Mesplède
541 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 2, 1997
5903 people are currently reading
92449 people want to read
About the author
Kathy Reichs
153 books17.4k followersKathy Reichs is a forensic anthropologist for the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of North Carolina, and for the Laboratoire des Sciences Judiciaires et de Médecine Légale for the province of Quebec. She is one of only fifty forensic anthropologists certified by the American Board of Forensic Anthropology and is on the Board of Directors of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. A professor of anthropology at The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Dr. Reichs is a native of Chicago, where she received her Ph.D. at Northwestern. She now divides her time between Charlotte and Montreal and is a frequent expert witness in criminal trials.
Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best First Novel (1998): Deja Dead
Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best First Novel (1998): Deja Dead
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,084 reviews
February 8, 2012
eh, it was okay. I am a huge fan of the TV series Bones, which is loosely based off Kathy Reichs' series, of which this is the first book. However, I realized exactly how LOOSELY BASED the series is after reading this book. what I love about the show is the romantic tension and sparkling humor and wit. these books are so much dryer and less fun. Even the lead character is less appealing--instead of being a gorgeous unattached doctor, she's an older alcoholic doctor, with a messy divorce and a teenage daughter. the supporting characters are also much less appealing. I guess it really is the lack of humor and relatability that makes this book such a disappointment after watching and loving the show. Call me shallow, but I prefer my fascinating forensic details served up with a little humor, romance, and appealing, attractive characters. Also, the book seemed much more violent, although that may have been my imagination. I just didn't enjoy this book. I'm awfully glad it was written, though, or I might never have had Bones to watch. :)
***Disclaimer--several years and seasons later of Bones, I have to say I'm no longer a fan of that either anymore. I like a BALANCE of humor and forensic details, romantic tension and reality. Bones has become almost farsical humor, and that makes me sad. Because now I don't care for the book it's based on, OR the show. :(
***Disclaimer--several years and seasons later of Bones, I have to say I'm no longer a fan of that either anymore. I like a BALANCE of humor and forensic details, romantic tension and reality. Bones has become almost farsical humor, and that makes me sad. Because now I don't care for the book it's based on, OR the show. :(
May 20, 2013
Separate the tv show and this book. You will be very disappointed if you come in thinking it'll be like the tv show. The characters, setting, and story are drastically different. However, I think this book is a lot better than the show and I liked the first seasons of Bones. The lead character is more believable. She has faults like any normal human being and doesn't always make the smart choices. She isn't a superhero on crack (she actually gets pretty banged up). The character seems more human. She's not out of touch with reality like how the TV show plays Brennan.
The author's descriptions are detailed and medically oriented. I enjoyed that as someone in a medical profession, but you don't need to be to understand. The French I feel the same. I don't speak French, but had no trouble following. There really is very little actual French in the book and most characters speak to her in English as Brennan is an American-born doctor. There isn't a lot of romantic tension in this book. It builds up over the series if you keep reading. This is the first book which really sets the background for later books.
Fair warning: The crimes ARE violent and emotionally disturbing at times. This book isn't for people who want to read sunshine and roses or want a superhero who always saves the day. It's definitely dark. There are some sad moments that made me want to light the book on fire. If you've never read a crime novel or aren't really into them I'd suggest something else- not this series.
The author's descriptions are detailed and medically oriented. I enjoyed that as someone in a medical profession, but you don't need to be to understand. The French I feel the same. I don't speak French, but had no trouble following. There really is very little actual French in the book and most characters speak to her in English as Brennan is an American-born doctor. There isn't a lot of romantic tension in this book. It builds up over the series if you keep reading. This is the first book which really sets the background for later books.
Fair warning: The crimes ARE violent and emotionally disturbing at times. This book isn't for people who want to read sunshine and roses or want a superhero who always saves the day. It's definitely dark. There are some sad moments that made me want to light the book on fire. If you've never read a crime novel or aren't really into them I'd suggest something else- not this series.
January 28, 2008
Honestly, I didn't like this book much during the first several chapters. It's obvious she was a novice writer and her over-use of metaphors drove me crazy! Also, not being a French speaker, all the French (slightly excessive in my opinion) annoyed me a bit.
I am a fan of the tv show 'Bones', which is based on this series of books, so I was excited to start. There are some major differences between the tv and the book versions of the main character, which was a transition for me, but I ended up like it.
I loved the end of the book, I thought that was very well written. Can't really explain why, spoilers and such, so you'll have to find out for yourself! lol
Overall I did enjoy the book and I read it very quickly...her use of foreshadowing was impressive and kept me wanting to turn the next page.
I'd definitely recommend this book and I will be continuing the series.
I am a fan of the tv show 'Bones', which is based on this series of books, so I was excited to start. There are some major differences between the tv and the book versions of the main character, which was a transition for me, but I ended up like it.
I loved the end of the book, I thought that was very well written. Can't really explain why, spoilers and such, so you'll have to find out for yourself! lol
Overall I did enjoy the book and I read it very quickly...her use of foreshadowing was impressive and kept me wanting to turn the next page.
I'd definitely recommend this book and I will be continuing the series.
July 29, 2011
Christ, was it a struggle to get through this book. When I read up on her books on Amazon it said "Better than Patricia Cornwell!!" so I thought DAMN this MUST be good, seeing as I loved many of PC's earlier novels.
It sucked. Not only did it suck... but it sucked hardcore. I was halfway through the book and still couldn't keep track of who half of the characters were. I dreaded anytime a conversation ended because that meant she was about to start one of her endlessly descriptive blurbs.
Don't get me wrong, being descriptive is good when trying to help you get a mental image of what is going on in a book... but getting a detailed description of which street she takes when driving places or a three page step by step explaination of how she digitally compares teeth impressions is a bit much.
I shit you not, she actually wrote something like ... first I click file and go to blah blah, then I click on the photo and drag so the frame of dots shows up, then I click blah blah ... and on and on and on. Did I buy a crime novel or Photoshop for dummies?
Ugh, just because I'm a sucker for punishment (and have no other unread books around) I'll probably give her 2nd book a go. If it's not substantially better than this one within the first 1/4 of the book. I'm tossing them both.
As for the 'Better than Patricia Cornwell' crap. What a joke, this book wasn't even better than PC's WORST.
It sucked. Not only did it suck... but it sucked hardcore. I was halfway through the book and still couldn't keep track of who half of the characters were. I dreaded anytime a conversation ended because that meant she was about to start one of her endlessly descriptive blurbs.
Don't get me wrong, being descriptive is good when trying to help you get a mental image of what is going on in a book... but getting a detailed description of which street she takes when driving places or a three page step by step explaination of how she digitally compares teeth impressions is a bit much.
I shit you not, she actually wrote something like ... first I click file and go to blah blah, then I click on the photo and drag so the frame of dots shows up, then I click blah blah ... and on and on and on. Did I buy a crime novel or Photoshop for dummies?
Ugh, just because I'm a sucker for punishment (and have no other unread books around) I'll probably give her 2nd book a go. If it's not substantially better than this one within the first 1/4 of the book. I'm tossing them both.
As for the 'Better than Patricia Cornwell' crap. What a joke, this book wasn't even better than PC's WORST.
February 6, 2017
This was my first exposure to Kathy Reichs, and I must say, I'm impressed! As a fan of the TV show Bones, I found this debut novel of Dr. Brennan much more enjoyable than the TV character. The book had plenty of twists and turns while keeping a quick pace. The only turn off for me was the French names and locations...I found it difficult to distinguish between the characters and locations, but that is understandable due to the book taking place in Montreal. I look forward to continuing the story of Dr. Brennan and her graphic descriptions of murder scenes!!
June 2, 2021
Books on forensic anthropology pique my interest. Thank you Jennifer for recommending this series! This is very good, I borrowed Déjà Dead from Hoopla and it's an abridged version, 4h 30m. I get to know the characters and the mystery moves at rapid pace (obviously). Really enjoyed it, even the French which I don't understand. I'm excited with Quebec, Canada setting. I'll be reading more from Kathy Reichs.
September 3, 2012
"i was killed by curiosity like a finely tuned cat."
that was not, actually, one of the many similes this book is drowning in, but it may as well have been. some real examples:
"In my mind’s eye I could see her standing at a pay phone, scanning her surroundings, her eyes never resting, broadcasting fear like Radio Free Europe."
or
"She was thin as soup in a homeless shelter"
or
"For the third time in as many days I saw daybreak, an event I embrace as eagerly as Joe Montana welcomes an all-out blitz."
i don't even know what that means.
not to mention such general sparklers as:
"I had enough pharmaceuticals in me to numb the Iraqi army ..."
the iraqi army is an odd choice for a book published in 1998, though i guess it takes place in 1994. still, odd choice for a book that takes place in 1994. unless there was some iraqi army drug scandal i'm forgetting all about. or was the iraqi army the lasting symbol of "a big group of people who it would take a lot of drugs to numb" back in 1994?
it may be that i only read this book because i've been feeling really negative about almost everything i've read recently, and my reviews have fallen on a spectrum from cranky to brutal, which may or may not be fair. might as well read something that i know i would hate, right? the sad truth is that when i was bored last winter i watched some of the t.v. show bones, which is based on these books. smart science lady who is smart and says smart science-y stuff and figures out stuff in a smart way? (i am also smart, as is evidenced by the previous sentence.) sign me up!
but the "same" character in this book says things like:
"I watched him walk away, admiring once again the way he filled his 501’s."
and constantly comments on how she can't quite figure something out, there's something she's missing, there's a piece of the puzzle that doesn't fit. all the while, i'm screaming at the book, "i can tell you what you're missing! it's fucking obvious!"
also, this book would be half the size if any of these near-interchangeable characters actually told each other anything. they're supposed to be running an investigation. together.
or maybe a decent editor would have sufficed.
the final reality is that i just didn't care about anyone in this book. well, that's not true. i really liked the lead character's cat. so maybe i finished the book to find out what happened to the cat. or maybe i finished it so i could exorcise my book crankiness and take it all out on kathy reichs.
we'll see. watch out, Woman in the Dunes
that was not, actually, one of the many similes this book is drowning in, but it may as well have been. some real examples:
"In my mind’s eye I could see her standing at a pay phone, scanning her surroundings, her eyes never resting, broadcasting fear like Radio Free Europe."
or
"She was thin as soup in a homeless shelter"
or
"For the third time in as many days I saw daybreak, an event I embrace as eagerly as Joe Montana welcomes an all-out blitz."
i don't even know what that means.
not to mention such general sparklers as:
"I had enough pharmaceuticals in me to numb the Iraqi army ..."
the iraqi army is an odd choice for a book published in 1998, though i guess it takes place in 1994. still, odd choice for a book that takes place in 1994. unless there was some iraqi army drug scandal i'm forgetting all about. or was the iraqi army the lasting symbol of "a big group of people who it would take a lot of drugs to numb" back in 1994?
it may be that i only read this book because i've been feeling really negative about almost everything i've read recently, and my reviews have fallen on a spectrum from cranky to brutal, which may or may not be fair. might as well read something that i know i would hate, right? the sad truth is that when i was bored last winter i watched some of the t.v. show bones, which is based on these books. smart science lady who is smart and says smart science-y stuff and figures out stuff in a smart way? (i am also smart, as is evidenced by the previous sentence.) sign me up!
but the "same" character in this book says things like:
"I watched him walk away, admiring once again the way he filled his 501’s."
and constantly comments on how she can't quite figure something out, there's something she's missing, there's a piece of the puzzle that doesn't fit. all the while, i'm screaming at the book, "i can tell you what you're missing! it's fucking obvious!"
also, this book would be half the size if any of these near-interchangeable characters actually told each other anything. they're supposed to be running an investigation. together.
or maybe a decent editor would have sufficed.
the final reality is that i just didn't care about anyone in this book. well, that's not true. i really liked the lead character's cat. so maybe i finished the book to find out what happened to the cat. or maybe i finished it so i could exorcise my book crankiness and take it all out on kathy reichs.
we'll see. watch out, Woman in the Dunes
November 1, 2018
SOOOOO disappointed that this doesn't have the same exact characters like the show. Or like the show in general.
Deja Dead is the first book of the Temperance Brennan series. Now, I'm slightly obsessed with the show, Bones. Which is where you meet the character Temperance Brennan.. so of course, I had some expectations for the first book. Sadly, it's not set in D.C. and her people are not in it either. Well.. yet.
Temperance is an okay kind of character - just like she is in the first episode of the tv show. Now her book character is completely different than her tv character. She has a kid, is divorced, and a recovering alcoholic. Luckily, her job is the same.. it's just set in Canada. Sort of close to D.C. but not really. Then there's some sort of love interest, at least in my eyes, and that's with detective Andrew Ryan. I could totally see him as the "Booth" but I have yet to determine if I like them or not.
Throughout the book, she is trying to solve murders. However, that's not the only thing going on in her hectic life. Nope, she's like constantly being attacked by the bad guys. It's kind of sad to see that happen but it does make the book a bit more interesting. I just kind of wished it was such a touch and go book. It was definitely slow and boring in some parts and in other's the pace definitely picked up.
Overall, I hope that the next book will a bit more interesting since I plan to read her entire series.
Deja Dead is the first book of the Temperance Brennan series. Now, I'm slightly obsessed with the show, Bones. Which is where you meet the character Temperance Brennan.. so of course, I had some expectations for the first book. Sadly, it's not set in D.C. and her people are not in it either. Well.. yet.
Temperance is an okay kind of character - just like she is in the first episode of the tv show. Now her book character is completely different than her tv character. She has a kid, is divorced, and a recovering alcoholic. Luckily, her job is the same.. it's just set in Canada. Sort of close to D.C. but not really. Then there's some sort of love interest, at least in my eyes, and that's with detective Andrew Ryan. I could totally see him as the "Booth" but I have yet to determine if I like them or not.
Throughout the book, she is trying to solve murders. However, that's not the only thing going on in her hectic life. Nope, she's like constantly being attacked by the bad guys. It's kind of sad to see that happen but it does make the book a bit more interesting. I just kind of wished it was such a touch and go book. It was definitely slow and boring in some parts and in other's the pace definitely picked up.
Overall, I hope that the next book will a bit more interesting since I plan to read her entire series.
April 5, 2012
This book is exactly as good as you'd expect it to be when you buy it for 7 Euros at the airport out of desperation when you have nothing else to read and you need something to occupy your time on a 9 hour flight from Europe to the US. Which is to say, it was awful.
Where to even start? How about with some of the terrible similes that appear every two pages or so (sometimes even more frequently)?
"I'm as familiar with the ebb and flow of Gabby's moods as I was with my own menstrual cycles."
"The swarm seemed to absorb him, like an army of antibodies seeking out and surrounding a foreign protein."
"One false lash had loosened, and it curved upward on her lid, like a millipede rising to test the air."
"They ran through the rain, clinging together like socks just out of the dryer."
These are but a few examples I found in about five minutes worth of scanning the book. There are literally hundreds just like these to be found, each one as chuckle worthy as the last.
Let's move to the characters. Or should I say character. There really seems to be only one: Doctor Temperance Brennan. She's the star of this book, an expert in the field of forensic anthropology, who for some reason spends more time out of the lab than looking at the bones of the victims. Her favorite activities include: talking with her cat, having her blood turn to ice whenever some shocking revelation is made, musing over how horny she is, being unable to concentrate on things because she's thinking about the case or making up weird sports metaphors, being too concentrated on the case and therefor unable to do anything else other than investigate whatever caught her attention, having her anxiety levels reach new heights every time something scary happens, thinking about how much she would like a drink, and of course doing very dangerous and stupid things alone because "Hey, why not? I'm the main character of this book so I should definitely be gallivanting around by myself with no back up or training in cop-like activities because that is just sooooo smart." Let's just say that I was not as big of a fan of her character as I was hoping I would be.
Every other character in this book is just a loose amalgamation of physical characteristics, maybe (and just maybe) one odd personal tick, and a name. They appear and disappear as needed, giving Brennan some kind of useful clue and then vanishing, having served their purpose. Or, in the case of Gabby, appearing to prove that Brennan has a friend, quickly becoming very annoying, and then vanishing. I mean, heck, the only thing I can remember about Ryan (who is arguably one of the more important secondary characters) is that he has blue eyes "like lasers" and a nice ass. And I finished this book today.
Other great things about this book include: the absolutely riveting descriptions of different scientific procedures which were in no way boring and dry! The totally pointless and random use of foreshadowing! The insertion of French words and phrases every now and then to remind the reader that this is Montreal! Using the "Every Chapter Ends In A Cliffhanger" things as a way to keep the reader interested (I hate that)! The list goes on.
To finish I will say this: I will grant that this is Kathy Reichs first book, and having read a later one I can say I think her writing improves a bit (then again it's been awhile since I read that...) and that I did finish this one because I was interested in seeing who the criminal was (and what his motivation was, which sadly was not explained as fully as I would have liked it to be). I've read worse books than this, but I can't say I would ever recommend this to anyone else, not even as airplane reading.
Where to even start? How about with some of the terrible similes that appear every two pages or so (sometimes even more frequently)?
"I'm as familiar with the ebb and flow of Gabby's moods as I was with my own menstrual cycles."
"The swarm seemed to absorb him, like an army of antibodies seeking out and surrounding a foreign protein."
"One false lash had loosened, and it curved upward on her lid, like a millipede rising to test the air."
"They ran through the rain, clinging together like socks just out of the dryer."
These are but a few examples I found in about five minutes worth of scanning the book. There are literally hundreds just like these to be found, each one as chuckle worthy as the last.
Let's move to the characters. Or should I say character. There really seems to be only one: Doctor Temperance Brennan. She's the star of this book, an expert in the field of forensic anthropology, who for some reason spends more time out of the lab than looking at the bones of the victims. Her favorite activities include: talking with her cat, having her blood turn to ice whenever some shocking revelation is made, musing over how horny she is, being unable to concentrate on things because she's thinking about the case or making up weird sports metaphors, being too concentrated on the case and therefor unable to do anything else other than investigate whatever caught her attention, having her anxiety levels reach new heights every time something scary happens, thinking about how much she would like a drink, and of course doing very dangerous and stupid things alone because "Hey, why not? I'm the main character of this book so I should definitely be gallivanting around by myself with no back up or training in cop-like activities because that is just sooooo smart." Let's just say that I was not as big of a fan of her character as I was hoping I would be.
Every other character in this book is just a loose amalgamation of physical characteristics, maybe (and just maybe) one odd personal tick, and a name. They appear and disappear as needed, giving Brennan some kind of useful clue and then vanishing, having served their purpose. Or, in the case of Gabby, appearing to prove that Brennan has a friend, quickly becoming very annoying, and then vanishing. I mean, heck, the only thing I can remember about Ryan (who is arguably one of the more important secondary characters) is that he has blue eyes "like lasers" and a nice ass. And I finished this book today.
Other great things about this book include: the absolutely riveting descriptions of different scientific procedures which were in no way boring and dry! The totally pointless and random use of foreshadowing! The insertion of French words and phrases every now and then to remind the reader that this is Montreal! Using the "Every Chapter Ends In A Cliffhanger" things as a way to keep the reader interested (I hate that)! The list goes on.
To finish I will say this: I will grant that this is Kathy Reichs first book, and having read a later one I can say I think her writing improves a bit (then again it's been awhile since I read that...) and that I did finish this one because I was interested in seeing who the criminal was (and what his motivation was, which sadly was not explained as fully as I would have liked it to be). I've read worse books than this, but I can't say I would ever recommend this to anyone else, not even as airplane reading.
November 24, 2019
3 stars
So after watching the show and loving it and kinda missing it since it finished, I decided to pick up the book. Sadly the only thing the series and the book have in common is the name and profession of the female protagonist. Nothing else. Not even the plot. And the plot of this one could have been adapted for the screen in my opinion.. For me the tv series was better. But if I had read this when it came out (in the 90s) I would have enjoyed it more.
So after watching the show and loving it and kinda missing it since it finished, I decided to pick up the book. Sadly the only thing the series and the book have in common is the name and profession of the female protagonist. Nothing else. Not even the plot. And the plot of this one could have been adapted for the screen in my opinion.. For me the tv series was better. But if I had read this when it came out (in the 90s) I would have enjoyed it more.
January 9, 2020
This was very difficult for me to get through. Not because of the scary content. While yes, the content is quite dark and grossly disturbing, that is not what set me back. This is an extreme procedural novel. Generally I do not mind, however I have never come across the likes of a book where at least half of the novel is spent in explaining procedures. In this case, specific to bone analysis, knife/blades and finger prints.
At some point, I think the author must ask themselves, does it feel like I'm writing a research paper more so than a fictional novel? And if the answer is yes....then it's time to stop and edit.
I believe this is roughly 400+ pages. At least 75, more likely 90 pages should have been trimmed out. The book is about a bone anthropologist, who works at the coroners office and she discovers a serial killer who is murdering and dismembering women in a horrible grotesque manner (...as if there is a non horrible manner??). Of course I should be greatly disbursed by the details of the murders, however, I was so bored with the non-stop monologues and overuse of similes that I didn't care what happened. For every 1 page of dialogue between main characters there was 3 pages describing bone procedures or how to navigate downtown Montreal.
After finishing the Freida Kline series by Nicci French, I have been looking to find a new series with a special main character to follow. Based on the reviews and description I thought this might be a similar fit. Sadly, I was incorrect. As this was not it for me, and I will not be continuing with this series.
At some point, I think the author must ask themselves, does it feel like I'm writing a research paper more so than a fictional novel? And if the answer is yes....then it's time to stop and edit.
I believe this is roughly 400+ pages. At least 75, more likely 90 pages should have been trimmed out. The book is about a bone anthropologist, who works at the coroners office and she discovers a serial killer who is murdering and dismembering women in a horrible grotesque manner (...as if there is a non horrible manner??). Of course I should be greatly disbursed by the details of the murders, however, I was so bored with the non-stop monologues and overuse of similes that I didn't care what happened. For every 1 page of dialogue between main characters there was 3 pages describing bone procedures or how to navigate downtown Montreal.
After finishing the Freida Kline series by Nicci French, I have been looking to find a new series with a special main character to follow. Based on the reviews and description I thought this might be a similar fit. Sadly, I was incorrect. As this was not it for me, and I will not be continuing with this series.
July 19, 2022
3.5 stars
First book of a large series. Forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan finds a body in a plastic bag and that is the start of a series of murders in which she gets personally involved. I thought it a bit slow and very detailed. As this is the first book I might try the next in the series to see if it is worth following up.
First book of a large series. Forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan finds a body in a plastic bag and that is the start of a series of murders in which she gets personally involved. I thought it a bit slow and very detailed. As this is the first book I might try the next in the series to see if it is worth following up.
September 2, 2018
My first introduction to Temperance Brennan was through Emily Deschanel’s great performance in the hit show Bones.
I’m currently working my way through the boxset and eventually planned on reading these books, but as it’s been established numerous times in the series that these books are separate entities I decided I might as well start now.
This Temperance is so completely different. She’s in her late forties, a divorced recovering alcoholic with a teenage daughter. Normally this would be an interesting introduction to a character to launch the series but I missed the social awkward TV version!
I like that the story was set in Canada though, with Quebec being a French speaking province it added an interesting dimension to the side characters.
The story itself was nice intriguing crime story thriller as a serial killer is on the loose. It did feel slightly slow in places.
I’m sure that once I get used to this original version of Brennan, I’m going to enjoy this series even more!
I’m currently working my way through the boxset and eventually planned on reading these books, but as it’s been established numerous times in the series that these books are separate entities I decided I might as well start now.
This Temperance is so completely different. She’s in her late forties, a divorced recovering alcoholic with a teenage daughter. Normally this would be an interesting introduction to a character to launch the series but I missed the social awkward TV version!
I like that the story was set in Canada though, with Quebec being a French speaking province it added an interesting dimension to the side characters.
The story itself was nice intriguing crime story thriller as a serial killer is on the loose. It did feel slightly slow in places.
I’m sure that once I get used to this original version of Brennan, I’m going to enjoy this series even more!
May 19, 2013
This is the first of the Temeperance Brennan books. If you are looking for the Bones version of Temperance Brenna, this is not it. Think of this as the original and the Bones version as being the modified version designed to be appealing to a wide television audience.
In many ways Kathy Reich's books remind me of Patricia Cornwell's. Or perhaps I should say Patricia Cornwell's remind me of Kathy Reich's, seeing as KR first began writing in the forensic's genre before PC did, add to that a the fact that KR's real life in many ways parallel's the fictional character of Tempe Brennan and you have a book with a particular flavor of authenticity that you can only get from a writer who has done more than just simply research a subject.
If you are looking for books that set the foundation for the current multimedia love for forensic work crossing into the realm of detective investigation, these a great series of books to spend your time with, just keep in mind, that these books tend to be a bit more graphic and gritty than many similarly themed books written by other authors.
In many ways Kathy Reich's books remind me of Patricia Cornwell's. Or perhaps I should say Patricia Cornwell's remind me of Kathy Reich's, seeing as KR first began writing in the forensic's genre before PC did, add to that a the fact that KR's real life in many ways parallel's the fictional character of Tempe Brennan and you have a book with a particular flavor of authenticity that you can only get from a writer who has done more than just simply research a subject.
If you are looking for books that set the foundation for the current multimedia love for forensic work crossing into the realm of detective investigation, these a great series of books to spend your time with, just keep in mind, that these books tend to be a bit more graphic and gritty than many similarly themed books written by other authors.
January 16, 2021
This novel came out in 1990s. It’s interesting reading about a time when people somehow managed to solve crimes without cell phones . . .
This is the first in a long series of novels featuring forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennen. There were sections that were seriously tense as Tempe gets herself in the middle of a series of brutal murders. She sees the connection between the women who are mutilated and thinks they have a serial killer on their hands, initially to the consternation of the actual law enforcement officers in charge of tracking down who is killing these women, who range in age. Through the way the limbs were severed, Tempe sees similarities, but she goes beyond her actual job, putting herself and others she cares about in danger.
I enjoyed this. I usually like to read series books in order, but I think if I read a book by Reichs again I’ll pick something that came out more recently so it doesn’t feel like I’m reading historical fiction rather than straight crime fiction.
This is the first in a long series of novels featuring forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennen. There were sections that were seriously tense as Tempe gets herself in the middle of a series of brutal murders. She sees the connection between the women who are mutilated and thinks they have a serial killer on their hands, initially to the consternation of the actual law enforcement officers in charge of tracking down who is killing these women, who range in age. Through the way the limbs were severed, Tempe sees similarities, but she goes beyond her actual job, putting herself and others she cares about in danger.
I enjoyed this. I usually like to read series books in order, but I think if I read a book by Reichs again I’ll pick something that came out more recently so it doesn’t feel like I’m reading historical fiction rather than straight crime fiction.
January 8, 2026
__________________________
Does [the suspect] merely have a grotesque interest in violence? ... Movie producers and publishing houses make millions off the same theme. — Déjà Dead
Déjà Dead , of course, makes use of some of the same cliches that appear in cozies, but this book is about as cozy as a sleeping bag filled with hornets.
Dr. Temperance Brennan has a bone to pick, and she’s good at it. She’s a forensic anthropologist—a specialist who studies human skeletal remains to help identify the dead and understand what happened to them. She works with medical examiners, law enforcement, and disaster response teams to interpret bones when a body is decomposed, burned, or otherwise unrecognizable. It’s not my dream job, but to each her bone.
As the book begins, some workers at a construction site have discovered a badly decaying nude body of a young woman and Brennan is called in to identify her. The cause of death is quite clear. The woman’s hands, legs, and head have been surgically removed from her torso, and the body has been horribly mutilated. It is disturbing even to someone who deals with violent deaths as a living. During her analysis, Brennan notices that the wounds resemble those from a murder in the previous year—and the pattern is impossible to ignore.
Here’s where one of the cozy clichés appears. Brennan informs the police detective that she suspects that they are dealing with a serial killer. The cop throws a fit. He informs her that she is not a police officer and to mind her own business. This, of course, leads to Brennan deciding to investigate the possibility of a serial killer at large in the city on her own—with tragic results.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Stars. I usually avoid books steeped in hyperviolent, bone-rattling brutality, but I loved this one. The violence isn’t presented in sadistic, blow by blow detail; instead, it’s filtered through the clinical eye of a professional. Kathy Reichs is a real-life forensic anthropologist, and it shows. She makes the story and the procedures used to solve similar crimes seem very authentic. Highly recommended for mystery lovers and bone collectors.
Does [the suspect] merely have a grotesque interest in violence? ... Movie producers and publishing houses make millions off the same theme. — Déjà Dead
Déjà Dead , of course, makes use of some of the same cliches that appear in cozies, but this book is about as cozy as a sleeping bag filled with hornets.
Dr. Temperance Brennan has a bone to pick, and she’s good at it. She’s a forensic anthropologist—a specialist who studies human skeletal remains to help identify the dead and understand what happened to them. She works with medical examiners, law enforcement, and disaster response teams to interpret bones when a body is decomposed, burned, or otherwise unrecognizable. It’s not my dream job, but to each her bone.
As the book begins, some workers at a construction site have discovered a badly decaying nude body of a young woman and Brennan is called in to identify her. The cause of death is quite clear. The woman’s hands, legs, and head have been surgically removed from her torso, and the body has been horribly mutilated. It is disturbing even to someone who deals with violent deaths as a living. During her analysis, Brennan notices that the wounds resemble those from a murder in the previous year—and the pattern is impossible to ignore.
Here’s where one of the cozy clichés appears. Brennan informs the police detective that she suspects that they are dealing with a serial killer. The cop throws a fit. He informs her that she is not a police officer and to mind her own business. This, of course, leads to Brennan deciding to investigate the possibility of a serial killer at large in the city on her own—with tragic results.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Stars. I usually avoid books steeped in hyperviolent, bone-rattling brutality, but I loved this one. The violence isn’t presented in sadistic, blow by blow detail; instead, it’s filtered through the clinical eye of a professional. Kathy Reichs is a real-life forensic anthropologist, and it shows. She makes the story and the procedures used to solve similar crimes seem very authentic. Highly recommended for mystery lovers and bone collectors.
November 2, 2025
Пореден пример, как не трябва да се издават книжни серии...
Няколко различни издателства през годините са публикували първата (x2), петата, десетата и единадесетата част от тази поредица на български и толкова. Как човек да не се наслади на бездарното им изпълнение?
По мотиви от този роман е създаден популярен тв сериал - "Кости". Гледал съм няколко епизода, но видяното не ме заинтригува достатъчно.
Самата книга е добре написана до средата си, може би прекалява на моменти авторката с описанията на кости, рязането им и прочие, но карай.
И изведъж, главната героиня - съдебния антрополог Бренън решава да изпъкне и се залавя да се вре малоумно из полицейската работа по ня��олко случая на убити и разчленени жени, където и когато ѝ падне. С цел да блесне и да разгадае сама куп серийни убийства в Монреал, щото местните канадски ченгета са тъпаци, с изключение на един, дето има готин задник. Не се е получило особено добре, според мен.
Моята оценка - 2,5*.
Вероятно няма да продължа поредицата.
Няколко различни издателства през годините са публикували първата (x2), петата, десетата и единадесетата част от тази поредица на български и толкова. Как човек да не се наслади на бездарното им изпълнение?
По мотиви от този роман е създаден популярен тв сериал - "Кости". Гледал съм няколко епизода, но видяното не ме заинтригува достатъчно.
Самата книга е добре написана до средата си, може би прекалява на моменти авторката с описанията на кости, рязането им и прочие, но карай.
И изведъж, главната героиня - съдебния антрополог Бренън решава да изпъкне и се залавя да се вре малоумно из полицейската работа по ня��олко случая на убити и разчленени жени, където и когато ѝ падне. С цел да блесне и да разгадае сама куп серийни убийства в Монреал, щото местните канадски ченгета са тъпаци, с изключение на един, дето има готин задник. Не се е получило особено добре, според мен.
Моята оценка - 2,5*.
Вероятно няма да продължа поредицата.
September 6, 2021
عالمة الأنثروبولوجيا " تمبرنس برينان " تعمل في مختبرات الطب الشرعي حيث إنها مختصة بفحص الهياكل العظمية للجثث التي تم قتلها وتشويهها لتحليلها والتعريف بهويتها..
تكتشف بأن ثمة رابط يجمع عدد من الجرائم التي تتعلق بجثث عدد من النساء الضحايا وقد تم تقطيعهن وتشويه أجسادهن بصورة مرعبة وحشية...
نحن إذن بصدد مواجهة قاتل متسلسل منحرف طليق ، ولكن فريق البحث الجنائي لا يقتنع بذلك ، هل تكتفي هى بدورها بالدعم التقني دون أن تتعدى صلاحيات المحققين ، تلتزم بمتطلبات عملها دون أن تتخطى الحدود ، ولكن عن أي حدود نتحدث ؟
هى لا تقتنع بأن هناك حدوداً تفصل بين عملها وعمل البحث الجنائي ، يمكنها أن تقوم هى الأخرى بطرح الأسئلة ، تحليل المعلومات الأولية ؛ تتبع سير التحقيقات والتقصي عن أي تفاصيل واردة بالملفات الأرشيفية بل وقد تنطلق وحيدة إلى مسرح الجريمة للنبش عن العظام ..تجمع المعطيات وتلتقط أصغر تفصيلة تمسك بها لا تفلتها ببراعة لافتة ...
لم تكن تمتلك من الشجاعة لتفعل ذلك بل كان إصرارها على أن لا تنتهي تلك الجرائم البشعة بكونها مجهولة...
رواية رائعة...مخيفة..وشيقة بسردها لأدق التفاصيل دون أن يتسلل إليك الشعور بالملل ، شعرت بمتعة بالغة فيما يخص المعلومات الدقيقة عن الطب الشرعي ...
كم كان مُبهر السرد التوصيفي للأمكنة..للأشياء..وللمشاعر وحتى التقاء النظرات ورنين الأصوات...
حتى اللحظة الأخيرة تشعر كما لو أن أحدهم يمرر نصل سكين على عنقك...أمرٌ مرعب ..لكن لابأس بالنهاية ستكون بخير.....
تكتشف بأن ثمة رابط يجمع عدد من الجرائم التي تتعلق بجثث عدد من النساء الضحايا وقد تم تقطيعهن وتشويه أجسادهن بصورة مرعبة وحشية...
نحن إذن بصدد مواجهة قاتل متسلسل منحرف طليق ، ولكن فريق البحث الجنائي لا يقتنع بذلك ، هل تكتفي هى بدورها بالدعم التقني دون أن تتعدى صلاحيات المحققين ، تلتزم بمتطلبات عملها دون أن تتخطى الحدود ، ولكن عن أي حدود نتحدث ؟
هى لا تقتنع بأن هناك حدوداً تفصل بين عملها وعمل البحث الجنائي ، يمكنها أن تقوم هى الأخرى بطرح الأسئلة ، تحليل المعلومات الأولية ؛ تتبع سير التحقيقات والتقصي عن أي تفاصيل واردة بالملفات الأرشيفية بل وقد تنطلق وحيدة إلى مسرح الجريمة للنبش عن العظام ..تجمع المعطيات وتلتقط أصغر تفصيلة تمسك بها لا تفلتها ببراعة لافتة ...
لم تكن تمتلك من الشجاعة لتفعل ذلك بل كان إصرارها على أن لا تنتهي تلك الجرائم البشعة بكونها مجهولة...
رواية رائعة...مخيفة..وشيقة بسردها لأدق التفاصيل دون أن يتسلل إليك الشعور بالملل ، شعرت بمتعة بالغة فيما يخص المعلومات الدقيقة عن الطب الشرعي ...
كم كان مُبهر السرد التوصيفي للأمكنة..للأشياء..وللمشاعر وحتى التقاء النظرات ورنين الأصوات...
حتى اللحظة الأخيرة تشعر كما لو أن أحدهم يمرر نصل سكين على عنقك...أمرٌ مرعب ..لكن لابأس بالنهاية ستكون بخير.....
July 25, 2010
I'm happy to report I've found a new series that I really enjoyed-- although not for the faint of heart or sensitive of stomachs. It took me longer than usual to get over the opening chapters because this author is as precise in the physiological details as I've ever read-- I could practically smell the decay. Once I mastered "skimming the grossest of details," I was hooked!
This novel features some interesting characters and I love that it's set in Montreal, Quebec... a city I didn't know much about until reading this book (and hey, I can say &%*hole en Francais now... a little cultural bonus my French-speaking children enjoyed).
The book cover proclaimed that this series is the basis for the Bones show on Fox-TV, but that isn't why I picked it up. However, I did agree with one of the book notes-- if you like Patricia Cornwell, then you'll enjoy this author just as much!
I've been looking for a new mystery series to indulge myself in, and this one is perfect!
This novel features some interesting characters and I love that it's set in Montreal, Quebec... a city I didn't know much about until reading this book (and hey, I can say &%*hole en Francais now... a little cultural bonus my French-speaking children enjoyed).
The book cover proclaimed that this series is the basis for the Bones show on Fox-TV, but that isn't why I picked it up. However, I did agree with one of the book notes-- if you like Patricia Cornwell, then you'll enjoy this author just as much!
I've been looking for a new mystery series to indulge myself in, and this one is perfect!
May 25, 2015
I am only sorry for waiting so long to read it. Great story! I think KR does have a sense of humor and I loved all of the technical stuff. Another series added to my list.
October 26, 2025
3.5⭐
I actually finished the epilogue on 29/10 whilst having my prehistoric fusebox upgraded, and the rest of the book several months earlier.
Wasn't bad for a debut. As I liked the TV show Bones (Need to get back to that, still on season 8 for some reason.) - thought I'd give this book a shot to see what it's like, and to stay one step ahead of the forensics should I turn into a maniac, someday. Someday? Also, wanted to see how the show differs from the book.
Like the show, the novel is also very dark. More so, come to think of it. Not as gory or disturbing as the Outlast Trials, though, but I digress. I bought a few more of her books, as they were on offer, though they're reasonably priced - as is.
Temp seems more impulsive in the book and does things that made me wonder if she was going dense. Total lack of self preservation, at times, which was a bit annoying. I did find the forensic stuff interesting, where it goes into minute (or is it my noot?) detail. Don't know why it took me so long to read. Makes me wonder if I'll ever finish GOT when I get around to starting it. That's if G.R.R. Martin gets around to finishing it. But I digress. Again.
In summation. Good. A bit difficult to read at times, mainly because of the french words/sentences that popped-up sporadically, though the english equivalent was shown as well, I think, lol. I'll probably read more of the series, eventually. Will probably check out Patricia Cornwell, too.
I actually finished the epilogue on 29/10 whilst having my prehistoric fusebox upgraded, and the rest of the book several months earlier.
Wasn't bad for a debut. As I liked the TV show Bones (Need to get back to that, still on season 8 for some reason.) - thought I'd give this book a shot to see what it's like, and to stay one step ahead of the forensics should I turn into a maniac, someday. Someday? Also, wanted to see how the show differs from the book.
Like the show, the novel is also very dark. More so, come to think of it. Not as gory or disturbing as the Outlast Trials, though, but I digress. I bought a few more of her books, as they were on offer, though they're reasonably priced - as is.
Temp seems more impulsive in the book and does things that made me wonder if she was going dense. Total lack of self preservation, at times, which was a bit annoying. I did find the forensic stuff interesting, where it goes into minute (or is it my noot?) detail. Don't know why it took me so long to read. Makes me wonder if I'll ever finish GOT when I get around to starting it. That's if G.R.R. Martin gets around to finishing it. But I digress. Again.
In summation. Good. A bit difficult to read at times, mainly because of the french words/sentences that popped-up sporadically, though the english equivalent was shown as well, I think, lol. I'll probably read more of the series, eventually. Will probably check out Patricia Cornwell, too.
January 26, 2019
2.5 / 5 stars
warning to anybody & everybody who wants to read this because it's the series Bones is based on. don't do it. there is literally zero parallels between the book and tv series, apart from the main character sharing a name. no quirky side characters, attractive & hilarious FBI agents or banter.
Seriously, stay away. This book has no Booth, Zack, Angela, Hodgins, Sweets or any of your other well loved characters. Even Temperance Brennan holds none of the familiar and well loved traits; she's emotional (ugh, I'll get onto that later), in her late forties, a mother, divorced and a recovering alcoholic.
Yeah, I know.
I went into this book knowing there would be so many differences from the show, but I thought I'd at least be capable of making connections. I couldn't. There was nothing similar about these two stories and it took me a while to push through and accept it for what it was. But when I was able to do that, I slowly began to enjoy myself.
Tempe Brennan travels from her home in the South of the U.S every year during her break working on a college board, to lend her expertise in Quebec, Canada.
During one of her stints in Quebec, a string of mutilated (all very graphically described, heavy emphasis on the sexual mutilations, so be wary if that's something you might find hard to handle) female bodies come onto her table and Tempe's the only one who seems to see the link.
This was a very well written and easy to follow crime book, which I appreciated. Usually, I struggle to fall into crime stories, either from it dragging or being too slow in the drama. This was often funny and had a lot more depth than a usual thriller, the side plots and characters were all quite intriguing.
Now, I did have a problem with Tempe. She was irrational and often ruled by her emotions. I became sick of her running into dangerous situations by herself, just to prove a point. All the while having a dialog about "whether this is the right thing to do?" or, "am I doing this just to prove I'm right?". It's the typical trope; woman runs into danger because she thinks she's 'big and strong' and then needs somebody to come save her.
Now don't get me wrong, I love women who face problems head-on and fight the bad guys, etc. But, this takes careful planning, preparation and logic. Not getting in your car alone, way after dark and running to an abandoned church where other dead bodies have been found. You don't keep rummaging through the forest when your flashlight goes out, or when it starts pouring with rain and thunder.
Also, after getting beamed on the back of the head and moved from one part of the creepy churchyard to another (while unconscious), you don't try and convince yourself that it might have been a tree that hit you. I was just so frustrated at this point. Did the tree suddenly grow out of the ground and get the shakes?
The overall story was pretty enjoyable. Dry in certain areas with a heavy emphasis on technical description, but the unique way the author linked the killer to the crimes was interesting. I have the second one on my kindle, and because I am curious to see how the series progresses, I'll probably read it. I also fell into a ship on the last few pages. It feels like a cliffhanger, I must continue just to see what happens with these two characters.
warning to anybody & everybody who wants to read this because it's the series Bones is based on. don't do it. there is literally zero parallels between the book and tv series, apart from the main character sharing a name. no quirky side characters, attractive & hilarious FBI agents or banter.
Seriously, stay away. This book has no Booth, Zack, Angela, Hodgins, Sweets or any of your other well loved characters. Even Temperance Brennan holds none of the familiar and well loved traits; she's emotional (ugh, I'll get onto that later), in her late forties, a mother, divorced and a recovering alcoholic.
Yeah, I know.
I went into this book knowing there would be so many differences from the show, but I thought I'd at least be capable of making connections. I couldn't. There was nothing similar about these two stories and it took me a while to push through and accept it for what it was. But when I was able to do that, I slowly began to enjoy myself.
Tempe Brennan travels from her home in the South of the U.S every year during her break working on a college board, to lend her expertise in Quebec, Canada.
During one of her stints in Quebec, a string of mutilated (all very graphically described, heavy emphasis on the sexual mutilations, so be wary if that's something you might find hard to handle) female bodies come onto her table and Tempe's the only one who seems to see the link.
This was a very well written and easy to follow crime book, which I appreciated. Usually, I struggle to fall into crime stories, either from it dragging or being too slow in the drama. This was often funny and had a lot more depth than a usual thriller, the side plots and characters were all quite intriguing.
Now, I did have a problem with Tempe. She was irrational and often ruled by her emotions. I became sick of her running into dangerous situations by herself, just to prove a point. All the while having a dialog about "whether this is the right thing to do?" or, "am I doing this just to prove I'm right?". It's the typical trope; woman runs into danger because she thinks she's 'big and strong' and then needs somebody to come save her.
Now don't get me wrong, I love women who face problems head-on and fight the bad guys, etc. But, this takes careful planning, preparation and logic. Not getting in your car alone, way after dark and running to an abandoned church where other dead bodies have been found. You don't keep rummaging through the forest when your flashlight goes out, or when it starts pouring with rain and thunder.
Also, after getting beamed on the back of the head and moved from one part of the creepy churchyard to another (while unconscious), you don't try and convince yourself that it might have been a tree that hit you. I was just so frustrated at this point. Did the tree suddenly grow out of the ground and get the shakes?
The overall story was pretty enjoyable. Dry in certain areas with a heavy emphasis on technical description, but the unique way the author linked the killer to the crimes was interesting. I have the second one on my kindle, and because I am curious to see how the series progresses, I'll probably read it. I also fell into a ship on the last few pages. It feels like a cliffhanger, I must continue just to see what happens with these two characters.
February 21, 2023
I loved everything about this. I do not understand why I did not know about this book, this series. Perhaps I am living under a rock? I have never seen the TV show, Bones, that is apparently based on this series. I loved the setting in Montreal, one of my favorite cities. My paternal grandparents were Québécois, so I love all things French Canadian. And I live in North Carolina where the author lives. Again-do I live under a rock? 🪨
Aside from all of this, the author writes very compellingly in a style that I like. The characters are wonderfully fleshed out. It was super suspenseful, and I could not wait to get back to reading. I may be late to the Tempe Brennan party, but I am here for the duration!
Aside from all of this, the author writes very compellingly in a style that I like. The characters are wonderfully fleshed out. It was super suspenseful, and I could not wait to get back to reading. I may be late to the Tempe Brennan party, but I am here for the duration!
July 9, 2023
I know I’m late to the game but I am FINALLY getting to Kathy Reichs’ Bones series, and Déjà Dead was book one, so what better place to start?
Temperance Brennan is making a new life for herself in Montreal, after the dissolution of her first marriage, working as a forensic anthropologist, trying to give identities to recovered bones, and give justice to grieving families. Brennan is called in when a dismembered female body is found, its pieces stuffed in garbage bags, but Tempe discovers a disturbing pattern amongst the bones and is convinced she has seen something like this before. Brennan brings her suspicions forward but no one in law enforcement believes that there’s a serial killer in their midst. So, Dr. Brennan must go at it alone, determined to find justice, even when she, too, becomes a target.
Reichs is a certified forensic anthropologist, and has practiced in Quebec (where the novel takes place) and in the Southern United States. Her knowledge and experience are evident in every page, through not only her very specific breakdown of the bone decomposition, but also through her respectful acknowledge of the Quebecois language and Francophone culture. Although this novel is fiction, Reichs introduces readers to not only Dr. Brennan, but to herself as well, as a writer and a scientist.
As mentioned, this novel goes into quite a lot of scientific detail about the human body; how it works, how it decomposes, how the muscles, bones and joints break down and how quickly, which doesn’t add to the dramatic plot, but is completely fascinating from an educational standpoint.
Tempe appears cold, stand-offish and completely awkward, but she is also exceptionally brilliant and honest. She has a deep love for her daughter and a strong affection for her ex-husband, and her passion for her work makes her a deeply compassionate human, contrary to what she displays to the world. Dr. Brennan is the female protagonist rarely seen- intelligent, self-confident and strong willed, and I adore her.
The story has many characters, and many different plot angles which all meet cohesively in a satisfying ending. “Déjà Dead” is the first of many Temperance Brennan novels, and I have quite the chore ahead of me in reading all (or at least, most)of them. However, if the rest are as quirky and delightful as “Dead”, I will have no problem completing the task!
Temperance Brennan is making a new life for herself in Montreal, after the dissolution of her first marriage, working as a forensic anthropologist, trying to give identities to recovered bones, and give justice to grieving families. Brennan is called in when a dismembered female body is found, its pieces stuffed in garbage bags, but Tempe discovers a disturbing pattern amongst the bones and is convinced she has seen something like this before. Brennan brings her suspicions forward but no one in law enforcement believes that there’s a serial killer in their midst. So, Dr. Brennan must go at it alone, determined to find justice, even when she, too, becomes a target.
Reichs is a certified forensic anthropologist, and has practiced in Quebec (where the novel takes place) and in the Southern United States. Her knowledge and experience are evident in every page, through not only her very specific breakdown of the bone decomposition, but also through her respectful acknowledge of the Quebecois language and Francophone culture. Although this novel is fiction, Reichs introduces readers to not only Dr. Brennan, but to herself as well, as a writer and a scientist.
As mentioned, this novel goes into quite a lot of scientific detail about the human body; how it works, how it decomposes, how the muscles, bones and joints break down and how quickly, which doesn’t add to the dramatic plot, but is completely fascinating from an educational standpoint.
Tempe appears cold, stand-offish and completely awkward, but she is also exceptionally brilliant and honest. She has a deep love for her daughter and a strong affection for her ex-husband, and her passion for her work makes her a deeply compassionate human, contrary to what she displays to the world. Dr. Brennan is the female protagonist rarely seen- intelligent, self-confident and strong willed, and I adore her.
The story has many characters, and many different plot angles which all meet cohesively in a satisfying ending. “Déjà Dead” is the first of many Temperance Brennan novels, and I have quite the chore ahead of me in reading all (or at least, most)of them. However, if the rest are as quirky and delightful as “Dead”, I will have no problem completing the task!
October 3, 2020
CW:
Confession: I just couldn't get into this because my brain kept saying things like 'she didn't have grown daughter in the TV show'. Looking at it objectively though I have to say I found the writing style to be stilted. It was almost felt procedural, which is appropriate in the crime scene sections but in other parts it felt like we were being told everything in a step by step fashion e.g. I got the can from the cupboard. I put it on the bench. I got a can opener from the draw. etc. The story itself was engaging if not a titch predictable. Just okay for me.
Confession: I just couldn't get into this because my brain kept saying things like 'she didn't have grown daughter in the TV show'. Looking at it objectively though I have to say I found the writing style to be stilted. It was almost felt procedural, which is appropriate in the crime scene sections but in other parts it felt like we were being told everything in a step by step fashion e.g. I got the can from the cupboard. I put it on the bench. I got a can opener from the draw. etc. The story itself was engaging if not a titch predictable. Just okay for me.
November 23, 2018
now i am hooked. This was such a great, easy and creative book. i was hooked after the first page.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
The characters were easy to fall in love with and follow, along with the story. the author made the mental visions so easy and vivid of the surroundings and the characters actions felt so real.
i would highly recommend this author and this book.
February 7, 2008
I had a good time reading this book, it's my second read by Reichs and I'm looking forward to more. I like the thriller feel, the fast paced action and even the gory details and suspense parts that keep you on the edge of your seat regarding what's going to happen next.
The plot revolves around the discovery of human remains that Brennan quickly relates to another murder whose victim she has come in contact with in the past. As the police doesn't seem to give credence to her serial murder theory Tempe takes more chances to prove she is right and soon finds herself in danger and the target of the killer's attention.
However I would have liked it even more if there was more focus on the criminal profile - it was a mystery till the end regarding who it was and what were the motivations, and if there was more contextualization of Brennan's character and life. She was a bit too adventurous, had only one friend and her relationship with her daughter and ex-husband is only approached in a glance. A B.
Having said that and since I'm also a fan of the TV series Bones I must say that the books are nothing like the series although they are both good in their own way.
The plot revolves around the discovery of human remains that Brennan quickly relates to another murder whose victim she has come in contact with in the past. As the police doesn't seem to give credence to her serial murder theory Tempe takes more chances to prove she is right and soon finds herself in danger and the target of the killer's attention.
However I would have liked it even more if there was more focus on the criminal profile - it was a mystery till the end regarding who it was and what were the motivations, and if there was more contextualization of Brennan's character and life. She was a bit too adventurous, had only one friend and her relationship with her daughter and ex-husband is only approached in a glance. A B.
Having said that and since I'm also a fan of the TV series Bones I must say that the books are nothing like the series although they are both good in their own way.
May 12, 2017
From the start of the book I just couldn't get into it. I found the writing to not flow very well and there was just way too much information.
Things I didn't like about Deja Dead:
- The French and English writing. I know the book is set in Montreal, but the author doesn't have to point out what language people are speaking. Also the author would translate some french words, but leave others. I ended up just skimming over the french words.
- The main character. Couldn't connect with her at all.
- I didn't care about any of the characters in the book, even the murder victims.
- The medical procedures going on. So boring.
Even though I've heard that the books get better, I'm done with this series for now.
Things I didn't like about Deja Dead:
- The French and English writing. I know the book is set in Montreal, but the author doesn't have to point out what language people are speaking. Also the author would translate some french words, but leave others. I ended up just skimming over the french words.
- The main character. Couldn't connect with her at all.
- I didn't care about any of the characters in the book, even the murder victims.
- The medical procedures going on. So boring.
Even though I've heard that the books get better, I'm done with this series for now.
May 17, 2009
I made it to chapter 4 of this book (pg45) but really had to stop. The book itself was good, don’t get me wrong… HOWEVER, I picked it up specifically because I totally LOVE the TV show “Bones” which is based off of this series of books. And as everyone knows, the book(s) that a TV show, mini-series, or movie is based upon are always better… boy was I wrong.
I love forensics stories with a good plot & this one has that, BUT I just can’t get involved with the book’s “Tempe” because she’s sooooo much weaker than the “Bones” I am used to.
The TV show must be extremely, loosely based off this book series or they had to pay the author just for the character’s name, Temperance Brennan. I say this because NOTHING is the same with the main character… in the book she’s recently divorced, has/had a girl child, is a recovering alcoholic, is NOT the head forensic anthropologist at the institute she works in but a lowly peon, she is not scientifically logical but emotionally visceral… I can list more, but it is just too depressing. :(
To make matters worse, there are NONE of the supporting characters known in the series, which in very hilarious, & sometimes poignant ways, assist Temperance to understand what it means to be human. Instead of Booth, she has to deal with this fat, dumpy, angry, sexist, weasel of a man as the investigating police officer. She also has no working, or personal relationships with anyone else that works at the institute; everyone else in the building is disconnected & aloof toward her. Granted, I only made it to chapter 4, so maybe these characters come later in the book, or series, but I refuse to waist any more of my time with this book.
I only suggest this book to someone who does not own a TV, & has therefore NEVER seen the series. Anyone who has seen the series before reading the books will be sorely disappointed.
I love forensics stories with a good plot & this one has that, BUT I just can’t get involved with the book’s “Tempe” because she’s sooooo much weaker than the “Bones” I am used to.
The TV show must be extremely, loosely based off this book series or they had to pay the author just for the character’s name, Temperance Brennan. I say this because NOTHING is the same with the main character… in the book she’s recently divorced, has/had a girl child, is a recovering alcoholic, is NOT the head forensic anthropologist at the institute she works in but a lowly peon, she is not scientifically logical but emotionally visceral… I can list more, but it is just too depressing. :(
To make matters worse, there are NONE of the supporting characters known in the series, which in very hilarious, & sometimes poignant ways, assist Temperance to understand what it means to be human. Instead of Booth, she has to deal with this fat, dumpy, angry, sexist, weasel of a man as the investigating police officer. She also has no working, or personal relationships with anyone else that works at the institute; everyone else in the building is disconnected & aloof toward her. Granted, I only made it to chapter 4, so maybe these characters come later in the book, or series, but I refuse to waist any more of my time with this book.
I only suggest this book to someone who does not own a TV, & has therefore NEVER seen the series. Anyone who has seen the series before reading the books will be sorely disappointed.
March 4, 2015
Kathy Reichs can do no wrong! I adore her writing, and the legitimacy of her words. As someone who took some anthro, anatomy and physiology classes, I can say that this book is very smart (and this forensic anthropologist knows her stuff!). I love how Kathy Reichs makes her novels seem real, and like the reader is actually part of the story while following Temperance Brennan!
The first novel of Kathy Reichs's series follows Temperance deciding to go on a little vacation, but finding out that a corpse discovered is not from an old burial site but instead a dismembered female in trash bags.
This investigation proves to be very troublesome when threats are delivered to Tempe and eventually to her daughter and her best friend. Tempe must crack the case and find out who killed this poor female before it is too late!
The story itself was very smart, and I didn't see the ending coming. Very rarely can I find a book where I don't guess the stereotypical ending, so this novel was a real gem! The realistic descriptions and the information I gained from this book were excellent as well! This book was well planned and thought out!
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in crime dramas, mystery, want a good read that will also teach you something new or just want a good read in general!
Five out of five stars! I love Kathy Reichs and her Temperance Brennan series!
The first novel of Kathy Reichs's series follows Temperance deciding to go on a little vacation, but finding out that a corpse discovered is not from an old burial site but instead a dismembered female in trash bags.
This investigation proves to be very troublesome when threats are delivered to Tempe and eventually to her daughter and her best friend. Tempe must crack the case and find out who killed this poor female before it is too late!
The story itself was very smart, and I didn't see the ending coming. Very rarely can I find a book where I don't guess the stereotypical ending, so this novel was a real gem! The realistic descriptions and the information I gained from this book were excellent as well! This book was well planned and thought out!
I would recommend this book to anyone who is interested in crime dramas, mystery, want a good read that will also teach you something new or just want a good read in general!
Five out of five stars! I love Kathy Reichs and her Temperance Brennan series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,084 reviews