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Alex Delaware #42
Malice
Not yet published
Expected 2 Feb 27Psychologist Alex Delaware and Homicide Detective Milo Sturgis face one of their most baffling and troubling cases in this riveting thriller from the #1 New York Times bestselling “master of suspense” (Los Angeles Times).
It begins with what seems like a particlarly malignant case of envy. Alben Opfer, a gifted, self-motivated eighteen-year-old comes to Los Angeles with big enrollment at an elite private school, followed by admission to an equally prestigious college, and, finally, a career in Hollywood. All that ends when his body is found on a university campus, shot to death, and in a bizarre display of cruel triumph, stabbed post-mortem.
Suspicions falls on Alben's estranged half brother, whose troubled past stands in stark contrast to Alben's promising future. Then another victim is murdered in the same distinctive way. And another. And another.
Maddeningly, there seems to be no link among the victims. Males and females, they span a wide age range and come from different worlds. Yet someone has doomed them to dying horribly.
Alex and Milo find themselves peeling back layers of L.A. life, traveling in and out of the shadows, as they hunt for a psychopath who operates out of pure malice.
It begins with what seems like a particlarly malignant case of envy. Alben Opfer, a gifted, self-motivated eighteen-year-old comes to Los Angeles with big enrollment at an elite private school, followed by admission to an equally prestigious college, and, finally, a career in Hollywood. All that ends when his body is found on a university campus, shot to death, and in a bizarre display of cruel triumph, stabbed post-mortem.
Suspicions falls on Alben's estranged half brother, whose troubled past stands in stark contrast to Alben's promising future. Then another victim is murdered in the same distinctive way. And another. And another.
Maddeningly, there seems to be no link among the victims. Males and females, they span a wide age range and come from different worlds. Yet someone has doomed them to dying horribly.
Alex and Milo find themselves peeling back layers of L.A. life, traveling in and out of the shadows, as they hunt for a psychopath who operates out of pure malice.
320 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication February 2, 2027
About the author
Jonathan Kellerman
144 books6,028 followersJonathan Kellerman was born in New York City in 1949 and grew up in Los Angeles. He helped work his way through UCLA as an editorial cartoonist, columnist, editor and freelance musician. As a senior, at the age of 22, he won a Samuel Goldwyn Writing Award for fiction.
Like his fictional protagonist, Alex Delaware, Jonathan received at Ph.D. in psychology at the age of 24, with a specialty in the treatment of children. He served internships in clinical psychology and pediatric psychology at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and was a post-doctoral HEW Fellow in Psychology and Human Development at CHLA.
IN 1975, Jonathan was asked by the hospital to conduct research into the psychological effects of extreme isolation (plastic bubble units) on children with cancer, and to coordinate care for these kids and their families. The success of that venture led to the establishment, in 1977 of the Psychosocial Program, Division of Oncology, the first comprehensive approach to the emotional aspects of pediatric cancer anywhere in the world. Jonathan was asked to be founding director and, along with his team, published extensively in the area of behavioral medicine. Decades later, the program, under the tutelage of one of Jonathan's former students, continues to break ground.
Jonathan's first published book was a medical text, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF CHILDHOOD CANCER, 1980. One year later, came a book for parents, HELPING THE FEARFUL CHILD.
In 1985, Jonathan's first novel, WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS, was published to enormous critical and commercial success and became a New York Times bestseller. BOUGH was also produced as a t.v. movie and won the Edgar Allan Poe and Anthony Boucher Awards for Best First Novel. Since then, Jonathan has published a best-selling crime novel every year, and occasionally, two a year. In addition, he has written and illustrated two books for children and a nonfiction volume on childhood violence, SAVAGE SPAWN (1999.) Though no longer active as a psychotherapist, he is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Psychology at University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine.
Jonathan is married to bestselling novelist Faye Kellerman and they have four children.
Like his fictional protagonist, Alex Delaware, Jonathan received at Ph.D. in psychology at the age of 24, with a specialty in the treatment of children. He served internships in clinical psychology and pediatric psychology at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and was a post-doctoral HEW Fellow in Psychology and Human Development at CHLA.
IN 1975, Jonathan was asked by the hospital to conduct research into the psychological effects of extreme isolation (plastic bubble units) on children with cancer, and to coordinate care for these kids and their families. The success of that venture led to the establishment, in 1977 of the Psychosocial Program, Division of Oncology, the first comprehensive approach to the emotional aspects of pediatric cancer anywhere in the world. Jonathan was asked to be founding director and, along with his team, published extensively in the area of behavioral medicine. Decades later, the program, under the tutelage of one of Jonathan's former students, continues to break ground.
Jonathan's first published book was a medical text, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF CHILDHOOD CANCER, 1980. One year later, came a book for parents, HELPING THE FEARFUL CHILD.
In 1985, Jonathan's first novel, WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS, was published to enormous critical and commercial success and became a New York Times bestseller. BOUGH was also produced as a t.v. movie and won the Edgar Allan Poe and Anthony Boucher Awards for Best First Novel. Since then, Jonathan has published a best-selling crime novel every year, and occasionally, two a year. In addition, he has written and illustrated two books for children and a nonfiction volume on childhood violence, SAVAGE SPAWN (1999.) Though no longer active as a psychotherapist, he is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Psychology at University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine.
Jonathan is married to bestselling novelist Faye Kellerman and they have four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Starting off with a strange and troubling ritualistic murder, this 43rd book of the series again reunites LAPD Detective Milo Sturgis and psychologist Alex Delaware, who are tasked with hunting down an elusive killer. However, before the case gets much traction, two similar murders occur. Despite the fact that the victims didn’t know one another, Alex notes that they may have been part of a “homicidal scam”; whereby, each of the victims had been carefully lured into a a dangerous situation with the hope of such varied rewards as a scholarship, romantic relationship, or literary success. With few other clues to go on, this police procedural moves forward with good, old-fashioned detective work, combined with Alex’s psychological insights. Along with false leads, twists and turns, and colorful characters, the novel ended with a satisfying and believable conclusion.
Ironically, while Alex’s immediate world is filled with predicability (i.e., professional therapist, girlfriend, playful dog, nice house), the crime scenes that he encounters are always full-on unpredictable with few clues, false hunches, and, of course, surprising connections to seemingly unrelated facts. It’s also noteworthy that while Los Angeles and technology may go through changes over time, Alex is as young in this novel as he was at the beginning of the series in 1985. Even so, as well as a cast of regular detectives, the series continues to include Alex’s close friend, Sturgis, along with his longtime girlfriend, Robin, whose flawless perfection always makes her come across like a character created by AI. In any event, Jonathan Kellerman has once again knocked it out of the park…and the book definitely deserves a full 5-stars.
My thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
Ironically, while Alex’s immediate world is filled with predicability (i.e., professional therapist, girlfriend, playful dog, nice house), the crime scenes that he encounters are always full-on unpredictable with few clues, false hunches, and, of course, surprising connections to seemingly unrelated facts. It’s also noteworthy that while Los Angeles and technology may go through changes over time, Alex is as young in this novel as he was at the beginning of the series in 1985. Even so, as well as a cast of regular detectives, the series continues to include Alex’s close friend, Sturgis, along with his longtime girlfriend, Robin, whose flawless perfection always makes her come across like a character created by AI. In any event, Jonathan Kellerman has once again knocked it out of the park…and the book definitely deserves a full 5-stars.
My thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Longtime reader and fan of the series, so being invested in the 41 prior books likely (totally!) has me a bit biased but yet again I happily fell right into Alex's world. This instalment provided an excellent murder mystery that had me guessing until Milo and Alex worked it all out (no spoilers to ruin anything for other readers).
First time readers don't need to have read any of the previous books to enjoy this novel. Usually I find that having read all the preceding books helps to provide context into the characters as they develop and grow. This time, not so much, which is why this title is especially well-suited as a standalone.
One thing that seemed to show up again with this book was the somewhat excessive, tedious driving descriptions from place to place. I couldn't help but think this is just padding to increase word count as it doesn't really contribute to moving the story forward in any meaningful way. Unless I am missing something and there are readers out there that are fully into detailed driving descriptions?
And while I did enjoy the book for the murder mystery and familiar characters, as a devotee to the series and of course being miss pickypants, it felt like this one was a bit mundane and hollow with regard to the continuing evolution of the characters and their relationships.
I did really appreciate the little shout out for his wife Faye Kellerman's book The Ritual Bath. She retired her series and I can't help wondering if Jonathan Kellerman may be considering the same given the last few books were, as only someone who has read the full series might note, not as character-rich as the earlier ones. Nonetheless, I hope that is not the case as I still enjoyed the book and do recommend to other murder mystery lovers.
Disclosure: Received an uncorrected ARC of this book from NetGalley and Ballantine Books/Penguin Random House LLC (Thank you!) in exchange for an honest review.
First time readers don't need to have read any of the previous books to enjoy this novel. Usually I find that having read all the preceding books helps to provide context into the characters as they develop and grow. This time, not so much, which is why this title is especially well-suited as a standalone.
One thing that seemed to show up again with this book was the somewhat excessive, tedious driving descriptions from place to place. I couldn't help but think this is just padding to increase word count as it doesn't really contribute to moving the story forward in any meaningful way. Unless I am missing something and there are readers out there that are fully into detailed driving descriptions?
And while I did enjoy the book for the murder mystery and familiar characters, as a devotee to the series and of course being miss pickypants, it felt like this one was a bit mundane and hollow with regard to the continuing evolution of the characters and their relationships.
I did really appreciate the little shout out for his wife Faye Kellerman's book The Ritual Bath. She retired her series and I can't help wondering if Jonathan Kellerman may be considering the same given the last few books were, as only someone who has read the full series might note, not as character-rich as the earlier ones. Nonetheless, I hope that is not the case as I still enjoyed the book and do recommend to other murder mystery lovers.
Disclosure: Received an uncorrected ARC of this book from NetGalley and Ballantine Books/Penguin Random House LLC (Thank you!) in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the ARC. t's been a while since I've read an Alex Delaware novel, but I've always been a fan of Jonathan Kellerman. I had high hopes for this book, but it fell a little short. Alex and Milo are back tracking down the killer of a high school student with dreams of a better life and a desire to meet his brother. When more victims are discovered, the focus of the investigation shifts. While I was invested in finding out who the killer was, I struggled with connecting to the characters. The characters, the killer's motivation, and the connection between the victims all fell a little flat.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Can it be that this is the 42nd in the Alex Delaware series and that I have read all of them? I think this was one of the first adult mystery series I started following.
In this installment, a bright, motivated but poor student is found murdered. He was shot, stabbed after death, and left away from the murder scene. Could the culprit be someone close to home, his jealous half brother with whom he has only recently become acquainted? When two more unrelated bodies are found, killed following the same MO, psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis are baffled as to the connection among the three victims.
Kellerman writes true police procedurals, albeit with a unique twist as Milo is unconventional and Alex provides psychological insight. The stories follow a familiar rhythm, with the duo chasing leads, generating and discussing different theories, interviewing persons of interest, and enjoying a few good meals. Kellerman’s descriptions are particularly vivid and entertaining, and he consistently presents fresh perspectives on cases. Whenever I open a Kellerman book, I find it difficult to put it down.
This book can be read as a standalone, but if you are a fan of this series, it is always enjoyable to meet up once again with these characters.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @RandomHouse @BallantineBooks for the DRC.
In this installment, a bright, motivated but poor student is found murdered. He was shot, stabbed after death, and left away from the murder scene. Could the culprit be someone close to home, his jealous half brother with whom he has only recently become acquainted? When two more unrelated bodies are found, killed following the same MO, psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis are baffled as to the connection among the three victims.
Kellerman writes true police procedurals, albeit with a unique twist as Milo is unconventional and Alex provides psychological insight. The stories follow a familiar rhythm, with the duo chasing leads, generating and discussing different theories, interviewing persons of interest, and enjoying a few good meals. Kellerman’s descriptions are particularly vivid and entertaining, and he consistently presents fresh perspectives on cases. Whenever I open a Kellerman book, I find it difficult to put it down.
This book can be read as a standalone, but if you are a fan of this series, it is always enjoyable to meet up once again with these characters.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @RandomHouse @BallantineBooks for the DRC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In Jonathan Kellerman's Malice (Ballantine Books 2027), forty-seventh in the Alex Delaware series, psychologist Alex Delaware and Homicide Detective Milo Sturgis are caught in a confusing series of seemingly unrelated murders. The victims are different sorts of people from different areas with no discernable motives and no reason to think they are related except the manner of death. Milo finds nothing to tie them together and Alex finds almost no psychological threads to pull. If watching these two analyze clues and discuss the Who What When and Wasn’t is what intrigues you about a detective mystery, you are going to love this book. If you're looking for pulse pounding action that bounces all over the place, this will probably be boring (like my husband does). You may even scratch your head and wonder if the pieces will ever connect--until they do and it all finally bursts open. I can’t tell you what Alex sees no one else does, but if you’ve read others in the series, you’ll be applauding. It's very Alex Delaware.
October 25, 2026
It’s almost unbelievable that this is the 42nd book in the Alex Delaware/Milo Sturgis series. I think I started the series (and then binged) sometime in the late 1990s. Time is moving slow for the main characters. The way they converse you’d surmise that maybe they have 15 years, no more than 20, of shared memories. If anything, Dr. Delaware needs a new car. For an environmentally-minded guy, that early 2000s Cadillac has to be a gas guzzler.
“Malice” does not depart from Kellerman’s successful formula. There’s a puzzling murder that’s irritating Lt. Sturgis, so he calls old friend Dr. Delaware to see if there’s some psychological motive he’s missing. There’s always a lot of back and forth regarding theories. Suspects are deeply scrutinized and then they might fall off the radar as alibis get established.
In this installment, a gifted but generally isolated teenager from a disadvantaged home is found dumped far from home with a gunshot to his head, with an unnecessary coup d'état knife wound to his heart. An extensive deep dive into the victim’s background, family, and acquaintances turns up very little. Then another body, totally different in victimology, is dumped in a similar fashion
Nothing makes sense to Milo, but Alex believes it makes sense to the killer. They just have to find the sparse clues leading to the connections between corpses.
“Malice” did lag in the middle, until Dr. Delaware makes some brilliant observations that Sturgis is willing to consider since there’s nothing else to go on. It’s a fascinating, tension building story line as the police go from despair to SWAT mode.
These police procedurals are never stale (even though they started in pre-cellphone days) and Kellerman has adapted modern day technology into his crime-solving. Alex and Milo are reliable and competent and it’s through hard police work that the crimes they investigate get solved. How they bounce theories off one another is the brilliant core of these thrillers. 4.5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Milo has green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): YES/NO Kellerman has always been incredibly descriptive of the southern California high desert from gnarled pittosporum, old eucalyptus, and creosote bushes (of which he even throws around the Latin name, Larrea tridentata).
Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy.
“Malice” does not depart from Kellerman’s successful formula. There’s a puzzling murder that’s irritating Lt. Sturgis, so he calls old friend Dr. Delaware to see if there’s some psychological motive he’s missing. There’s always a lot of back and forth regarding theories. Suspects are deeply scrutinized and then they might fall off the radar as alibis get established.
In this installment, a gifted but generally isolated teenager from a disadvantaged home is found dumped far from home with a gunshot to his head, with an unnecessary coup d'état knife wound to his heart. An extensive deep dive into the victim’s background, family, and acquaintances turns up very little. Then another body, totally different in victimology, is dumped in a similar fashion
Nothing makes sense to Milo, but Alex believes it makes sense to the killer. They just have to find the sparse clues leading to the connections between corpses.
“Malice” did lag in the middle, until Dr. Delaware makes some brilliant observations that Sturgis is willing to consider since there’s nothing else to go on. It’s a fascinating, tension building story line as the police go from despair to SWAT mode.
These police procedurals are never stale (even though they started in pre-cellphone days) and Kellerman has adapted modern day technology into his crime-solving. Alex and Milo are reliable and competent and it’s through hard police work that the crimes they investigate get solved. How they bounce theories off one another is the brilliant core of these thrillers. 4.5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Milo has green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): YES/NO Kellerman has always been incredibly descriptive of the southern California high desert from gnarled pittosporum, old eucalyptus, and creosote bushes (of which he even throws around the Latin name, Larrea tridentata).
Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Four victims. One very specific method of murder. And absolutely no obvious reason why any of them should be connected. Jonathan Kellerman had me hooked.
Malice begins with the discovery of a young man who has been shot precisely in the brainstem, stabbed postmortem, and dumped in a secluded area on a college campus. And there are absolutely no clues. Then another body turns up. And another. By the time there are four victims, the method is clearly a connection, but finding anything else that ties them together is another matter. Even more puzzling, the fourth victim is the brother of the first.
Enter LAPD detective Milo Sturgis and psychologist Alex Delaware, who make one heck of an investigative team.
I particularly enjoyed Milo. He's smart, methodical, and has a wonderfully dry, sometimes macabre sense of humor that made me laugh at some very unexpected moments. Alex complements him perfectly. He doesn't spend the entire book trying to psychoanalyze everyone in sight. He observes, listens, thinks things through, and occasionally sees something from an angle Milo hasn't considered. Their different strengths work together naturally, and I thoroughly enjoyed following the investigation with them.
Kellerman's writing is also wonderfully visual. I could see this story as I read it: the locations, the crime scenes, the environments where Milo and Alex were working. He gives enough detail to put me firmly into the scene without slowing the story down with description just for description's sake.
But the real hook for me was that murder method. It was so distinctive that it seemed impossible for these deaths not to be connected, yet there was seemingly nothing tying the victims together. And, of course, Kellerman kept me guessing. I never figured out where he was taking me, which made watching everything finally come together even more satisfying. No spoilers here, but I finished this one with a very big smile.
I honestly don't have a meaningful criticism. I didn't get bored. I didn't get frustrated. I didn't roll my eyes even once. The plotting was smart, the mystery kept me guessing, the characters kept me entertained, and the ending absolutely landed. This was exactly the kind of crime novel I love.
Readers should be aware of descriptions of murder, violent death, and crime scenes, including postmortem violence and discussion of human remains.
Fans of intelligent police procedurals and psychological crime fiction, especially readers who enjoy trying to solve seemingly unrelated murders alongside the investigators, should have a great time with this one. Malice was my kind of murder and mayhem from beginning to end.
Malice begins with the discovery of a young man who has been shot precisely in the brainstem, stabbed postmortem, and dumped in a secluded area on a college campus. And there are absolutely no clues. Then another body turns up. And another. By the time there are four victims, the method is clearly a connection, but finding anything else that ties them together is another matter. Even more puzzling, the fourth victim is the brother of the first.
Enter LAPD detective Milo Sturgis and psychologist Alex Delaware, who make one heck of an investigative team.
I particularly enjoyed Milo. He's smart, methodical, and has a wonderfully dry, sometimes macabre sense of humor that made me laugh at some very unexpected moments. Alex complements him perfectly. He doesn't spend the entire book trying to psychoanalyze everyone in sight. He observes, listens, thinks things through, and occasionally sees something from an angle Milo hasn't considered. Their different strengths work together naturally, and I thoroughly enjoyed following the investigation with them.
Kellerman's writing is also wonderfully visual. I could see this story as I read it: the locations, the crime scenes, the environments where Milo and Alex were working. He gives enough detail to put me firmly into the scene without slowing the story down with description just for description's sake.
But the real hook for me was that murder method. It was so distinctive that it seemed impossible for these deaths not to be connected, yet there was seemingly nothing tying the victims together. And, of course, Kellerman kept me guessing. I never figured out where he was taking me, which made watching everything finally come together even more satisfying. No spoilers here, but I finished this one with a very big smile.
I honestly don't have a meaningful criticism. I didn't get bored. I didn't get frustrated. I didn't roll my eyes even once. The plotting was smart, the mystery kept me guessing, the characters kept me entertained, and the ending absolutely landed. This was exactly the kind of crime novel I love.
Readers should be aware of descriptions of murder, violent death, and crime scenes, including postmortem violence and discussion of human remains.
Fans of intelligent police procedurals and psychological crime fiction, especially readers who enjoy trying to solve seemingly unrelated murders alongside the investigators, should have a great time with this one. Malice was my kind of murder and mayhem from beginning to end.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"The body was dumped close to my house." And so, it begins for Alex Delaware in Malice, Book #42 of the Alex Delaware/Milo Sturgis series. And no, you do not need to read 41 previous books to enjoy this one. The story works perfectly fine as a standalone, although I would highly recommend this excellent series! Jonathan Kellerman's first book, When the Bough Breaks came out in 1985. The year I graduated high school. I have been there for each one of the 40 books that came after. I believe this is book #42 in the series. Like, seriously. Who does that? Who else has written the same character for FORTY-TWO books and still keeps it fresh, timely and exciting? Jonathan Kellerman! That's who! He maintains the streak with this one, Malice. Alex Delaware is an LA psychologist. His best friend, Milo Sturgis, is a detective who often asks Alex to consult on his cases. As he does with this one. Someone has dumped the body of a teenager from the wrong side of the tracks close to where Alex lives. The teenager is a good kid who has managed to work his way into an elite prep school. Well now he's dead with a bullet hole and a stab wound. Why? As the search continues, Milo discovers other similar murders. It's up to them once again to solve the case! These two characters work together so well. I love their back-and-forth banter as they brainstorm. Alex, Milo and all the secondary characters are like old friends, and I cannot say enough about them. But as for just this book alone, yes. It is definitely a god read, fast-paced, suspenseful and with great characterization. And hopefully it will open the door to a 42-book happy relationship! Or if you are already a fan, yep. More of what always works so well!
Thank you so much to #NetGalley, Jonathan Kellerman and Ballantine Books for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you so much to #NetGalley, Jonathan Kellerman and Ballantine Books for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I've been reading this series since the very beginning, so solving another case with Alex and Milo always feels like a visit with old friends. At this point, there's not a whole lot of character building going on because we know our main crew so well, but that leaves plenty of room for the mystery. I feel like that's where this series is really excelling right now. For long-time fans, we just jump right in from the first pages, and the action doesn't stop until the last page has been turned.
In this installment, we follow the main characters as they try to solve a string of what seem like unrelated murders in which the victims are both shot and stabbed. They'll have to find a common link if they hope to close the case, and as always, Alex Delaware will prove an integral part of figuring out the solution. We do get slightly less of the side characters than I would like in this one, but I still love the way that Jonathan Kellerman walks us through the case as it's unfolding. I can't think of another series that follows such a linear progression as this one does; we are apprised of all the steps the detectives are taking, and we find evidence and clues right alongside them. I love reading these books for the procedural aspect alone. I have no idea how close it is to actual police work, but it makes for a great story.
If you have not read this series before, I'd recommend starting with an earlier installment as we do get much more character development and relationship building towards the beginning of these novels, but if you're already a fan, I'd say this is another solid effort. I definitely will be anxiously awaiting the next one.
In this installment, we follow the main characters as they try to solve a string of what seem like unrelated murders in which the victims are both shot and stabbed. They'll have to find a common link if they hope to close the case, and as always, Alex Delaware will prove an integral part of figuring out the solution. We do get slightly less of the side characters than I would like in this one, but I still love the way that Jonathan Kellerman walks us through the case as it's unfolding. I can't think of another series that follows such a linear progression as this one does; we are apprised of all the steps the detectives are taking, and we find evidence and clues right alongside them. I love reading these books for the procedural aspect alone. I have no idea how close it is to actual police work, but it makes for a great story.
If you have not read this series before, I'd recommend starting with an earlier installment as we do get much more character development and relationship building towards the beginning of these novels, but if you're already a fan, I'd say this is another solid effort. I definitely will be anxiously awaiting the next one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this book courtesy of NetGalley for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
Overview: Alex just returned from Hawai'i. He isn't looking forward to what is waiting for him. You see, Milo Sturgis sent him a message. There was a weird murder while Alex was out. A teenage boy has been found shot and ritualistically stabbed. Worries about it being a family dispute seem to be derailed, when a second body is found. The only thing that the victims have in common is that they had a dream that they were coming close to attaining. Why have these people been killed? Can Milo and Alex find the killer? Let's find out.
Dislikes: Toni had bad tastes in men. I don't think that she ever truly had a chance to survive.
Alban's family life was really messed up. He acted more like the parent with his mother. And his brother held a lot of bitterness due to the fact that Alban stayed with their mom.
Likes: Milo has a great set of detectives that work in his unit. They made a quick job of cutting through the leads on the victims. He also made in-roads to other police stations in the best way possible.
Alex had Robin's support, and her ears whenever he needed a soundboard to figure out what he was missing.
Milo and Alex meet up with a cleaning service connected to the second victim. Turns out that there was a former cop working security. It was a wonderful time.
Conclusion: This was a fun book. If you like suspense novels, or Alex Delaware in general, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
Overview: Alex just returned from Hawai'i. He isn't looking forward to what is waiting for him. You see, Milo Sturgis sent him a message. There was a weird murder while Alex was out. A teenage boy has been found shot and ritualistically stabbed. Worries about it being a family dispute seem to be derailed, when a second body is found. The only thing that the victims have in common is that they had a dream that they were coming close to attaining. Why have these people been killed? Can Milo and Alex find the killer? Let's find out.
Dislikes: Toni had bad tastes in men. I don't think that she ever truly had a chance to survive.
Alban's family life was really messed up. He acted more like the parent with his mother. And his brother held a lot of bitterness due to the fact that Alban stayed with their mom.
Likes: Milo has a great set of detectives that work in his unit. They made a quick job of cutting through the leads on the victims. He also made in-roads to other police stations in the best way possible.
Alex had Robin's support, and her ears whenever he needed a soundboard to figure out what he was missing.
Milo and Alex meet up with a cleaning service connected to the second victim. Turns out that there was a former cop working security. It was a wonderful time.
Conclusion: This was a fun book. If you like suspense novels, or Alex Delaware in general, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars
Just a quick word of "thanks" to both netgalley.com, as well as Ballantine Books/Random House for an advanced reading copy of Malice, in exchange for my honest opinions of this novel.
Malice is book #42 in the Alex Delaware/Milo Sturgis psychological thrillers written by Jonathan Kellerman. I have been on board with this series from the beginning - probably my favorite reading series. Although Malice can be read as a "stand-alone" novel, it does help to have read some of the previous Delaware/Sturgis novels to get a feel of what's to come in this novel. As usual, Malice connected with me as being an enjoyable psychological thriller. The novel starts with the line, "The body was dumped close to my house." We find out that detective Milo Sturgis is working on an unusual crime in which a body has been placed, with a bullet hole in the back of the head, a knife-piercing in the chest, but little to no blood at the scene. Milo contacts his psychologist-friend, Dr. Alex Delaware, to see if there are any insights into this crime scene Alex can provide. As the story continues, we find two similar murders, without a true connection between the three victims. Always interesting, and always an enjoyable read, Malice adds to my indulgence of this series. This novel certainly kept my interest, and I look forward to future Delaware/Sturgis novels.
Just a quick word of "thanks" to both netgalley.com, as well as Ballantine Books/Random House for an advanced reading copy of Malice, in exchange for my honest opinions of this novel.
Malice is book #42 in the Alex Delaware/Milo Sturgis psychological thrillers written by Jonathan Kellerman. I have been on board with this series from the beginning - probably my favorite reading series. Although Malice can be read as a "stand-alone" novel, it does help to have read some of the previous Delaware/Sturgis novels to get a feel of what's to come in this novel. As usual, Malice connected with me as being an enjoyable psychological thriller. The novel starts with the line, "The body was dumped close to my house." We find out that detective Milo Sturgis is working on an unusual crime in which a body has been placed, with a bullet hole in the back of the head, a knife-piercing in the chest, but little to no blood at the scene. Milo contacts his psychologist-friend, Dr. Alex Delaware, to see if there are any insights into this crime scene Alex can provide. As the story continues, we find two similar murders, without a true connection between the three victims. Always interesting, and always an enjoyable read, Malice adds to my indulgence of this series. This novel certainly kept my interest, and I look forward to future Delaware/Sturgis novels.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. The book will be published on February 2nd, 2026.
Number 42 in what has quickly become my favorite police procedural series, starring a gruff, inexorable, gay LA homicide detective and his best friend Alex Delaware, a psychologist who has a real talent for consulting on extra twisted murder cases. In this case, they track down the psychopath who has attached his own particular twist to the killing of three apparently unrelated victims.
AI suggests that this series is also a psychological thriller series — I agree with the psychological part, but I’m happy to say that while I’m on the edge of my seat during the entire trip, I’m never anxious (which is what often happens in books I label thrillers). Perfect for me.
I started reading this series a couple of years ago and have read them completely out of order with no problems. Kellerman is quite good at recapping any bit of history necessary to understand the narrative in a short set of aptly placed sentences. And while I usually read (as opposed to listen to) books, this is one series that I prefer opting for audio — John Rubinstein — the reader for most of the series — is fantastic and I’ve become accustomed to the personalities he imbues in the characters via their voices.
Number 42 in what has quickly become my favorite police procedural series, starring a gruff, inexorable, gay LA homicide detective and his best friend Alex Delaware, a psychologist who has a real talent for consulting on extra twisted murder cases. In this case, they track down the psychopath who has attached his own particular twist to the killing of three apparently unrelated victims.
AI suggests that this series is also a psychological thriller series — I agree with the psychological part, but I’m happy to say that while I’m on the edge of my seat during the entire trip, I’m never anxious (which is what often happens in books I label thrillers). Perfect for me.
I started reading this series a couple of years ago and have read them completely out of order with no problems. Kellerman is quite good at recapping any bit of history necessary to understand the narrative in a short set of aptly placed sentences. And while I usually read (as opposed to listen to) books, this is one series that I prefer opting for audio — John Rubinstein — the reader for most of the series — is fantastic and I’ve become accustomed to the personalities he imbues in the characters via their voices.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you have followed this “odd couple” duo through the last 41 novels, you will be gratified by another entertaining, suspenseful storyline characterized by the author’s signature dry humor and his classic ability to paint vivid, evocative word pictures. If you are new to the Alex Delaware series, you are in for a treat. I finished the book in one day and will have to wait patiently for next year’s release. It was an easy, fast-paced read with plenty of questions leading Alex, Milo and his team through a maze of potential suspects and motives. As usual, the pieces all fell together through good detective work coupled with psychological insights in a satisfying conclusion. Malice was an appropriate title reflecting the killer’s modus operandi.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another 5 star classic Alex and Milo thriller from Kellerman.
Once again, Milo Sturgis enlists Alex Delaware to help him solve a complex murder of a young, and very promising student from an underprivileged environment who managed to make it into a highly regarded prep academy. Milo's instinct tells him there is more to this seemingly random crime than they are seeing. And when a second killing occurs, his inner radar is screaming that these are not random crimes even though nothing seems to connect them. And Alex agrees with him.
Together, he and Alex methodically work and walk the scenes to find the connection that they ate both sure exists.
A fabulous mystery read; the psychologist and the homicide detective are once again, on their toes and meshing
seamlessly in this thrilling addition to the series.
Ready for the next one, please.
Once again, Milo Sturgis enlists Alex Delaware to help him solve a complex murder of a young, and very promising student from an underprivileged environment who managed to make it into a highly regarded prep academy. Milo's instinct tells him there is more to this seemingly random crime than they are seeing. And when a second killing occurs, his inner radar is screaming that these are not random crimes even though nothing seems to connect them. And Alex agrees with him.
Together, he and Alex methodically work and walk the scenes to find the connection that they ate both sure exists.
A fabulous mystery read; the psychologist and the homicide detective are once again, on their toes and meshing
seamlessly in this thrilling addition to the series.
Ready for the next one, please.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Forty-two novels into this series, Alex Delaware and Milo Sturgis remain engaging characters much like Holmes and Watson that a lover of Johnathan Kellerman's mysteries look forward to spending time with them as they solve another murder or, in this novel, a series of unique murders. Tying the disparate murder victims who are treated with utter disdain by their killer makes for a fascinating journey as one reads this novel When the ultimate motive is revealed it came as a partial surprise, but one that is plausible.
One of the strengths of 'Malice' is that if you are a first time Johnathan Kellerman reader you will be inspired to read more in the series. Delaware and Sturgis make a formable pairing.
Thank you Ballentine Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read this arc in return for an honest review.
One of the strengths of 'Malice' is that if you are a first time Johnathan Kellerman reader you will be inspired to read more in the series. Delaware and Sturgis make a formable pairing.
Thank you Ballentine Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read this arc in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another great story in this series! 3.5 stars
When a gifted high school student turns up murdered, Milo Sturgis and his consultant/friend/psychologist Alex Delaware start the search for the killer. More bodies pile up and a suspect is identified, but then that person also turns up dead. More suspects, more false leads.
This book keeps the reader guessing and doesn't let up. So many twists and turns in the plot and Milo and Alex are left searching, along with Milo's band of detectives, the "baby D's". It's hard to say a lot more without giving up the spoiler, and I don't do that. I did feel like the actual suspect and motive were a bit anti-climatic, although the build up was good as always.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
When a gifted high school student turns up murdered, Milo Sturgis and his consultant/friend/psychologist Alex Delaware start the search for the killer. More bodies pile up and a suspect is identified, but then that person also turns up dead. More suspects, more false leads.
This book keeps the reader guessing and doesn't let up. So many twists and turns in the plot and Milo and Alex are left searching, along with Milo's band of detectives, the "baby D's". It's hard to say a lot more without giving up the spoiler, and I don't do that. I did feel like the actual suspect and motive were a bit anti-climatic, although the build up was good as always.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“Malice” by Jonathan Kellerman is a compelling psychological mystery that delivers the tension and dark atmosphere we’ve come to expect from the Alex Delaware series.
One of the reasons I continue to enjoy this series is that it is written with Kellerman’s own professional experience with the emphasis on the psychological makeup of both his suspects and victims. That insight adds depth to the mystery and makes the characters especially intriguing.
As always, there are plenty of twists and turns along the way, making book 43 every bit as satisfying and enjoyable as its predecessors. Another strong addition to a consistently entertaining read! Recommended for all fans of psychological mysteries, and police procedurals.
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jonathan Kellerman has a deliciously twisted mind and how he manages to keep coming up with these books is a marvel and a mystery. I find Milo to be one of my most favorite fictional characters ever. He and Alex have an easy and comfortable friendship that is enviable and wonderful.
I am only giving this four stars because this is one of the first books I have read by Kellerman that I felt was thin on the plot, especially the connections between the victims. While I think it was clever, I just felt there was too much disconnect and it didn't leave me with the "wow what a motive/plot/twist" I usually get from his books.
It was still an excellent book and I was kept interested the entire time, if not just to find out the WHY of the whole thing and he did not disappoint.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC.
I am only giving this four stars because this is one of the first books I have read by Kellerman that I felt was thin on the plot, especially the connections between the victims. While I think it was clever, I just felt there was too much disconnect and it didn't leave me with the "wow what a motive/plot/twist" I usually get from his books.
It was still an excellent book and I was kept interested the entire time, if not just to find out the WHY of the whole thing and he did not disappoint.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC.
Review of advance copy
It starts with the murder of a gifted high school boy, full of ambition and promise. Next it's a shy, quiet divorcee, then a down-on-his-luck dreamer who can’t seem to ever get it right. Three deaths with zero intersection and no connections, but they're all clearly victims of the same perpetrator.
We're back with the dynamic duo of psychologist Alex Delaware and police lieutenant Milo Sturgis as they try to solve the murders before the killer can strike again. With an assist from beloved characters Moses, Alicia, and Binchy, it's compelling police procedure, intriguing psychological analysis, and non-stop action from beginning to end.
This one will appeal to mystery and thriller fans of all kind, and the familiar cast makes it feel like coming home. The streets of LA are a dangerous place, but with Delaware and Sturgis on the job, we can all rest easier at night.
We're back with the dynamic duo of psychologist Alex Delaware and police lieutenant Milo Sturgis as they try to solve the murders before the killer can strike again. With an assist from beloved characters Moses, Alicia, and Binchy, it's compelling police procedure, intriguing psychological analysis, and non-stop action from beginning to end.
This one will appeal to mystery and thriller fans of all kind, and the familiar cast makes it feel like coming home. The streets of LA are a dangerous place, but with Delaware and Sturgis on the job, we can all rest easier at night.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Looking at my Goodreads shelf, I have previously shared Jonathan Kellerman is my favorite author (and I have several that I love!). I have been reading his books since my teens with When the Bough Breaks, the very first book in the Milo/Alex series. I was very excited to receive this ARC of Malice from Ballantine Books. Kellerman's descriptions are so vivid, I can immediately picture the character(s) or scene(s). This book was not my favorite in this series, but still a good, solid Milo/Alex murder case(s) to solve. Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine books for the ARC. All opinions are my own. I will admit I pushed this read ahead of others on my NetGalley shelf. :) Rating: 4 stars Publication date: 02 Feb 2027
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Alex Delaware is asked to consult on another murder case. The body of a young man who attends an elite prep school is found dumped near to where Alex lives. A bullet to the back of the head and a stab wound are the two characteristics of this murder. Soon, Alex and Milo, the detective who brings him in on cases, find there are at least four cases similar in circumstances. As Milo and Alex investigate, the reader finds the way detectives work out a case--looking for clues, examining the crime scene and trying to figure out the mind of the murderer. This is a good read which can be read without reading the other books in the series. I always look forward to each new Alex Delaware book. Happy reading and detecting with this one! Thanks to NetGalley for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The gang is back in the newest Alex Delaware mystery, MALICE, and none of them are happy about the case they've just gotten.
Not Milo Sturgis, because there are too many unanswered questions and the suspects are suspicious, but not enough to arrest.
Not ALex Delaware because he can't quite believe the reason he's come up with to explain the motivations behind the murders.
Certainly not the victims or the survivors of their deaths, because each one seems more wrong than the next.
This story revolves around 3 murders of people who were finally getting a foothold on their lives and futures, only to be snuffed out before it could begin.\
No wonder everyone is sad.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the sneak peek.
4 stars.
Not Milo Sturgis, because there are too many unanswered questions and the suspects are suspicious, but not enough to arrest.
Not ALex Delaware because he can't quite believe the reason he's come up with to explain the motivations behind the murders.
Certainly not the victims or the survivors of their deaths, because each one seems more wrong than the next.
This story revolves around 3 murders of people who were finally getting a foothold on their lives and futures, only to be snuffed out before it could begin.\
No wonder everyone is sad.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the sneak peek.
4 stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As a longtime Kellerman fan (of the family, really), I was eager to get Malice in my queue. As a serial murderer once again ravages LA, our favorite dynamic duo of Detective Milo Sturgis and best friend Alex Delaware are on the case. Unlike most of Kellerman’s series, I really struggled to connect with either the victims or the characters. Milo and Alex’s bromance fell a little flat in this novel, and it was evident that after 40+ books, our heroes either need to evolve more or perhaps go out with a bang. The twists were good, but the story's connection was fractured. Without spoiling the WHO or WHY, it satisfied the motive but left my itch far from scratched.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for letting me read this arc early and freely for an honest review.
#libraryninja
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine for letting me read this arc early and freely for an honest review.
#libraryninja
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for giving me access to an early read of Jonathan Kellerman’s latest book - amazing #42! Alex and Detective Milo Sturgis pair up once again to solve the case of a serial murderer. Bodies are being left in out-of-the-way places after being shot and knifed. The victim’s are all nice, non-threatening individuals who were on the verge of turning their lives around. Figuring out how the connection between these disparate individuals will help solve whodunnit. Alex speculates that the murderer kills those who have dreams of getting ahead. But how did the murderer know these individuals? A real page turner. Bring on the next installment!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is the next book in the Alex Delaware Series. In this book Alex and Milo Sturgis investigate a serial killer where the connections are somewhat tenuous. With the help of their crew of “kids:, they eventually determine who is the killer. The author manages to keep such a long running series both fresh and engaging. A must read for fans of the series.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Goodreads, Net Galley, Amazon and my nonfiction book review blog.
I received a free Kindle copy of this book courtesy of publisher with the understanding that I would post a review on Goodreads, Net Galley, Amazon and my nonfiction book review blog.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jonathan Kellerman’s Malice is a compelling mystery that delivers the tension and intricate character work readers expect from the Alex Delaware series. The investigation draws Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis into a disturbing case filled with secrets, unexpected connections, and increasingly unsettling revelations.
The pacing kept me engaged, and the gradual uncovering of the truth made the mystery difficult to put down. Alex and Milo’s partnership remains one of the novel’s greatest strengths.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.
All opinions are my own.
The pacing kept me engaged, and the gradual uncovering of the truth made the mystery difficult to put down. Alex and Milo’s partnership remains one of the novel’s greatest strengths.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC.
All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am beginning to believe that Alex and Milo are indestructible. Once again they take on a case with no leads, but with brilliant teamwork and interesting characters, build a case to catch a killer.
I felt the book began slowly and I almost sit it aside. It didn’t take long to kick into gear and hold my interest all the way through. No wonder this is such a popular series.
Please, add it to your to read list.
I felt the book began slowly and I almost sit it aside. It didn’t take long to kick into gear and hold my interest all the way through. No wonder this is such a popular series.
Please, add it to your to read list.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
You never go wrong with an Alex Delaware story. Classic Milo and Alex in this murder mystery. The story has interesting plotlines as well as the always enjoyable relationship with Milo. Very little of side characters in this installment but all the usuals make an appearance.
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
August 29, 2026
Another Alex Delaware novel that did not disappoint! I love the duo Alex and Milo and the book jumps right in and doesn’t stop until the last page. The mystery kept me guessing all the way through and had enough twists to keep me hooked but never confused.
August 29, 2026
I’m always excited to read an Alex Delaware novel and this one didn’t disappoint. It was a solid mystery with Alex being pulled into another one of Milo’s cases. Lots of time with the team and solid observations. It was an enjoyable read.
I received an early copy through Netgalley but all opinions are my own.
I received an early copy through Netgalley but all opinions are my own.
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