Naked Prey

by John Sandford

The #1 New York Times bestselling Lucas Davenport novel from John Sandford.

Two people are found hanging naked from a tree in the woods of northern Minnesota. What makes the situation particularly sensitive is the bodies are of a black man and a white woman. Lynching is the word everyone’s trying not to say, but as Lucas Davenport begins to discover, the murders are not at all what they appear to be. And there is worse to come—much, much worse.

“All but impossible to put down.”—The Washington Post

“Fast paced and full of surprises, this may be Sandford’s best novel yet.”—Library Journal

464 pages, Paperback

Published May 4, 2004

About the author

John Sandford is the pen name of John Roswell Camp, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author known for his gripping thrillers and popular crime series. After earning degrees in history, literature, and journalism from the University of Iowa, Camp began his writing career as a reporter, first at The Miami Herald and later at The Saint Paul Pioneer Press, where he earned critical acclaim for in-depth series on Native American communities and American farm life. His work won him the Pulitzer Prize for Feature Writing in 1986.
In 1989, Camp transitioned into fiction, publishing two novels: The Fool's Run under his real name and Rules of Prey under the pseudonym John Sandford. The latter launched the long-running “Prey” series, starring Lucas Davenport, a sharp, fearless investigator navigating politically sensitive crimes across Minnesota and beyond. The series grew to include spin-offs and crossovers, notably featuring characters like Virgil Flowers, a laid-back BCA agent with a sharp wit, and Letty Davenport, Lucas's equally determined daughter, who stars in her own series starting in 2022.
Sandford’s books have consistently appeared on the New York Times bestseller list, with over two dozen debuting at number one. Known for his dynamic storytelling, fast pacing, and keen attention to detail, Sandford combines his journalistic roots with a gift for character-driven narratives. He remains an avid reader and outdoorsman, and continues to write compelling fiction that resonates with readers who enjoy intelligent thrillers grounded in realism and driven by memorable protagonists.

Reviews

[Carol Aselton · Rating 4.75 out of 5]

Unexpectedly, I was kept at the edge of my seat by this book, and must say, it was excellent. John Sanford (pseudonym for John Camp, who I don't believe I ever read) is an excellent writer. He is quick, witty, keeps the story moving, a not too much romance, and the characters are not only believable, the main ones were quite interesting. His descriptions of Minnesota were excellent. I felt like I have been there, though I have not and would definitely not go in the winter. I read a couple of John Sanford books way back, honestly can't remember them, but will definitely keep my eyes open for more of his to read. Excellent mystery writer!

[Mark Peterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good mystery. Messed up on the geography of northern Minnesota. I know it sounds like I'm nitpicky, but facts are facts. Also, having worked in law enforcement for a county sheriff's department, some things were not very realistic either. Otherwise, decent story.

[Susan Beam-Gilleland · Rating 5 out of 5]

More from Lucas Davenport......Explains how Lettie came to be his adopted daughter.