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The Naturalist #2
Looking Glass
Professor Theo Cray caught one of the most prolific serial killers in history using revolutionary scientific methods. Cut off from university research because of the shroud of suspicion around him after the death of his former student and the aftermath of catching his quarry, Cray tries to rebuild his life but finds himself drawn into another unsolved case.
The desperate father of a missing child, ignored by the authorities and abandoned by his community, turns to Theo for help. The only clues are children’s drawings and an inner-city urban legend about someone called the Toy Man.
To unravel the mystery behind the Toy Man, Theo must set aside his scientific preconceptions and embrace a world where dreams and nightmares carry just as much weight as reality. As he becomes immersed in the case, he discovers a far-reaching conspiracy—one that hasn’t yet claimed its last victim.
The desperate father of a missing child, ignored by the authorities and abandoned by his community, turns to Theo for help. The only clues are children’s drawings and an inner-city urban legend about someone called the Toy Man.
To unravel the mystery behind the Toy Man, Theo must set aside his scientific preconceptions and embrace a world where dreams and nightmares carry just as much weight as reality. As he becomes immersed in the case, he discovers a far-reaching conspiracy—one that hasn’t yet claimed its last victim.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,036 reviews
August 8, 2023
I've decided that I would probably read just about anything by this author. This story made a huge impression on me, and Andrew Mayne has already been added to my "just buy it" list. I liked his character Theo Cray. His lone wolf style reminded me of my favorite book boyfriend Charlie Parker. "Without the supernatural bent." When and if the people he works for can be convinced that he knows what the heck he's doing, he'll be damn near unstoppable. The big bad in this story, the Toyman, gave me the heebie jeebies. Looking forward to the next in the series, and I've already bought the first book. Recommended. My thanks to Thomas and Mercer publishing, and Netgalley for letting me read and review.
November 27, 2018
Book two in the Dr. Theo Cray series has Theo with a new job and a new set of problems. He’s still managing to piss everyone off. When he leaves the job, he decides to take on another investigation. This time it’s a young boy who went missing 9 years ago in LA. Before long, he’s seeing signs of another serial killer.
The book has lots of supposed science and data management theories. I’m not sure how real they are. Theo truly is a bit of a jerk, smarter than most people and not afraid to tell them. He has access to all sorts of cutting edge equipment. And as the book goes on, there’s a conspiracy theory at work. You have to suspend belief at times, but the book is definitely engaging.
I liked that this book has a different premise. There’s an urban myth about The Toy Man, a black Santa type figure who brings toys to good boys but punishes the bad. Is this man real? Is he the one taking the missing boys? Because the missing boys are black and from poor neighborhoods, the police haven’t done a lot to investigate.
This is a fast paced mystery. I listened to this and it’s not always an easy audiobook because of the complexity of some of the theories. This is a book that requires you to pay attention.
I’m not a big one for conspiracy theories so the ending didn’t really do it for me.
The narrator does a good job and his voice seems exactly how I envision Theo soundin
March 31, 2018
This book and the book before it, about the same character, are hard reading for me, since I'm not sure I understand even half of what the character is thinking. Of course the character has a way of thinking that makes him what he is and gives him the ability to see thing differently than most of us so my not understanding him isn't a complaint. I enjoyed the book, despite the violence, since the violence was meant to stop more violence. I wouldn't mind reading more books about Theo Cray's work in the future, as he does what he thinks needs to be done, while having to compromise his values along the way. Thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for this ARC in return for an honest review.
April 2, 2021
Andrew Mayne is more versatile than many other authors I have read over the last few years. While he remains within the crime thriller genre, Mayne uses unique situations and protagonists that keep the reader on their toes and wondering. While I devoured two of his other series already, I was eager to get my hands on his Theo Cray novels, as I hear they are quite different, even by Mayne standards. Professor Theo Cray is still buzzing from his discovery of a serial killer in rural Montana, but is not all that keen about people using him for his skills alone. When Cray is asked to help locate a missing boy in Los Angeles, he reluctantly agrees, which only opens a complex web that he could not have predicted. One of the better crime thrillers I have read over the last number of years, Mayne proves that he is miles apart from others in the genre. Perfect for the lover of unique novels in the genre, as well as Mayne fans alike!
Theo Cray prides himself on being a computational biologist, one who studies the systems in which things live, but his past discovery of a serial killer in rural Montana is what everyone remembers. After leaving academia because of a somewhat problematic set of decisions, Cray finds himself working for a company that seeks to predict terrorist activities. However, Cray soon sees that he is being used for what he knows and his sentiments are not taken into account. It’s surely not the life for him, though he needs something to occupy his time.
Cray’s notoriety has left him having to dodge many people who want his help locating their loved ones, using his unique tracking measures. When a man approaches Cray for help locating his son, the biologist-cum-crime solver wonders if this might be a sign. There is no trace of the boy and the authorities have decided that it is not worth their time. The poor Los Angeles community has also given up hope that there will be anything they can do. All that’s left are some drawings that might mean nothing.
As Cray begins to look into things, he makes a valiant effort not to offend anyone, though his style of investigating is unique and not always pleasant. He is abrupt and direct, while also bending the rules as he sees fit. When Cray uncovers that there are other young boys that have gone missing, it all comes back to the drawings they made of a Toy Man, someone who gives presents to young children, but is said to punish the bad.
When Cray uncovers another interesting trait about the children, he is on a mission to solve the crime. The case takes on new meaning and gains momentum as Cray travels across the country to follow traces of the Toy Man and what might be really going on. It’s a race to uncover the truth, even if everyone else has given up on what matters most, the life of a little boy!
Since discovering the world of Andrew Mayne, I cannot say that I have been disappointed in the least. His unique take on forensics and crime detecting leaves the reader with something exciting as they delve deeper into the novels. This third series of his has proven to be anything by usual, offering up some wonderful spins on the traditional approaches, helping him to stay apart and be noticed.
Theo Cray is definitely unique as he tackles life and the criminal element. He is happy to pursue what makes him happy, using a unique skill set to find answers where others cannot. While he refuses to ‘colour in the lines’, Cray gets results and so many have come to accept his ways, if only for the time being. His grit and determination have shone through in this novel again, as he chases after clues that appear to take him further into danger. It’s a chilling story that leaves the reader wondering what else they can learn about him.
Andrew Mayne does a masterful job once again developing a supporting cast. There is so much to learn about Cray’s interaction with others, as well as how these characters present themselves. The story comes to life repeatedly and the reader is able to use these strong secondary characters to see where things are headed. The action is non-stop and it is those who grace the pages of the book that make them all the more exciting for sure.
Andrew Mayne never ceases to amaze me with his approach to storytelling. A strong narrative that pushes along throughout the story, there is something for everyone. Many will like the uniqueness that Mayne offers, particularly the momentum seen throughout the narrative. Short chapters leave the reader pushing further and wanting more, if only to see the next twist on the horizon. I devoured this piece and cannot wait to see what’s next in the Theo Cray series.
Kudos, Mr. Mayne, for a brilliant novel that will have me telling anyone who will listen about all you have done in the genre.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Theo Cray prides himself on being a computational biologist, one who studies the systems in which things live, but his past discovery of a serial killer in rural Montana is what everyone remembers. After leaving academia because of a somewhat problematic set of decisions, Cray finds himself working for a company that seeks to predict terrorist activities. However, Cray soon sees that he is being used for what he knows and his sentiments are not taken into account. It’s surely not the life for him, though he needs something to occupy his time.
Cray’s notoriety has left him having to dodge many people who want his help locating their loved ones, using his unique tracking measures. When a man approaches Cray for help locating his son, the biologist-cum-crime solver wonders if this might be a sign. There is no trace of the boy and the authorities have decided that it is not worth their time. The poor Los Angeles community has also given up hope that there will be anything they can do. All that’s left are some drawings that might mean nothing.
As Cray begins to look into things, he makes a valiant effort not to offend anyone, though his style of investigating is unique and not always pleasant. He is abrupt and direct, while also bending the rules as he sees fit. When Cray uncovers that there are other young boys that have gone missing, it all comes back to the drawings they made of a Toy Man, someone who gives presents to young children, but is said to punish the bad.
When Cray uncovers another interesting trait about the children, he is on a mission to solve the crime. The case takes on new meaning and gains momentum as Cray travels across the country to follow traces of the Toy Man and what might be really going on. It’s a race to uncover the truth, even if everyone else has given up on what matters most, the life of a little boy!
Since discovering the world of Andrew Mayne, I cannot say that I have been disappointed in the least. His unique take on forensics and crime detecting leaves the reader with something exciting as they delve deeper into the novels. This third series of his has proven to be anything by usual, offering up some wonderful spins on the traditional approaches, helping him to stay apart and be noticed.
Theo Cray is definitely unique as he tackles life and the criminal element. He is happy to pursue what makes him happy, using a unique skill set to find answers where others cannot. While he refuses to ‘colour in the lines’, Cray gets results and so many have come to accept his ways, if only for the time being. His grit and determination have shone through in this novel again, as he chases after clues that appear to take him further into danger. It’s a chilling story that leaves the reader wondering what else they can learn about him.
Andrew Mayne does a masterful job once again developing a supporting cast. There is so much to learn about Cray’s interaction with others, as well as how these characters present themselves. The story comes to life repeatedly and the reader is able to use these strong secondary characters to see where things are headed. The action is non-stop and it is those who grace the pages of the book that make them all the more exciting for sure.
Andrew Mayne never ceases to amaze me with his approach to storytelling. A strong narrative that pushes along throughout the story, there is something for everyone. Many will like the uniqueness that Mayne offers, particularly the momentum seen throughout the narrative. Short chapters leave the reader pushing further and wanting more, if only to see the next twist on the horizon. I devoured this piece and cannot wait to see what’s next in the Theo Cray series.
Kudos, Mr. Mayne, for a brilliant novel that will have me telling anyone who will listen about all you have done in the genre.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
April 9, 2019
I loved the Naturalist (book 1 which I also reviewed), but book two in the series, Looking Glass, while it was well worth the read, it wasn’t quite as good to me.
The Good:
-Scientist Theo Cray is approached by a grieving father whose son is missing. Theo reluctantly agrees to help, then it takes on its own life.
-There is a serial killer that has been hunting there for many years. He takes children that almost no one would miss and the authorities won’t take seriously. The bones in the yard were interesting too.
-Theo uses the methodology he used in Montana to hunt for a serial killer in Los Angles.
-A very good story.
The Bad:
Not really bad, but what I liked about the first book was that it was really different. Taking place in Montana and looking for a serial killer that everyone thought was a bear, with an interesting methodology. Nice!
Read It:
If you liked the first one, read this one. It was interesting, I very much enjoyed the book.
The Good:
-Scientist Theo Cray is approached by a grieving father whose son is missing. Theo reluctantly agrees to help, then it takes on its own life.
-There is a serial killer that has been hunting there for many years. He takes children that almost no one would miss and the authorities won’t take seriously. The bones in the yard were interesting too.
-Theo uses the methodology he used in Montana to hunt for a serial killer in Los Angles.
-A very good story.
The Bad:
Not really bad, but what I liked about the first book was that it was really different. Taking place in Montana and looking for a serial killer that everyone thought was a bear, with an interesting methodology. Nice!
Read It:
If you liked the first one, read this one. It was interesting, I very much enjoyed the book.
March 20, 2018
5 of 5 stars at The BiblioSanctum https://bibliosanctum.com/2018/03/20/...
Before I started Looking Glass, I made sure to clear my schedule for the rest of the day because I had a feeling I wouldn’t want to be interrupted. As it turned out, I was right. God help anyone who would have dared disturb me, it sure wouldn’t have been pretty! This was a book I finished in just one sitting, and in that time, you couldn’t have pried it loose from my hands with a crowbar.
This second installment of The Naturalist follows protagonist Theo Cray as he once again digs his heels into a case involving the missing victims of a serial killer. You can jump into it without having read the first book, but just bear in mind there will be some references and spoilers to his time in Montana if you ever have plans to go back and read it. In the aftermath of those events, Theo has become a bit of national celebrity for helping catch a prolific killer, but at the same time, his involvement in such a high-profile case has also made him anathema to the academic community. Stuck doing soul-draining work for the government, Theo finds himself drawn to the hunt again when a distraught father of a missing boy shows up on his doorstep with a request to look into his case.
The only problem? Little Christopher Bostrom disappeared nine years ago, and for most investigators this would mean a cold case with no chance of being solved. Theo, however, is scientist who finds patterns, and after crunching some numbers and doing some database searches, the results he finds are disturbing. Not only was Christopher a likely victim of a serial child abductor and murderer, there is evidence that this killer is still on the loose and active today. The only clues Theo has to go on are a couple of kids’ drawings and an eerie urban legend told among elementary school children about a mysterious figure called the Toy Man.
The author has done it again. I spent most of this book with my heart in my throat, because even when there wasn’t much action on the page, Mayne was able to keep up the intensity and fast pace with his vivid descriptions of the scientific processes and fascinating facts. Looking Glass was an electrifying book that never had me bored for a second. Because so much of what Theo does also involves computational biology, or the study of the development and application of biological data to generate patterns and models, readers with an interest in any of the related scientific fields will likely eat this one right up.
In addition, Theo Cray is fast becoming one of my favorite protagonists. As a vigilante scientist, he’s an unconventional hero, a bit socially awkward and tactless because he’s more used to dealing in facts and not feelings. He’s also frighteningly clever and fast on his feet, using what he knows of social and behavioral patterns to spin elaborate scenarios and identities for himself to get out of sticky situations. What’s more, ever since the events of The Naturalist, Theo’s heart has become hardened which has in turn emboldened him, making him more focused and gutsier when it comes to getting what he needs. When he’s not keeping me on the edge of my seat with his high-risk escapades, he’s making me laugh with his reckless yet ingenious stunts like that one particular incident involving an Amazon delivery box and glowing bacteria. At the end of the day, Theo Cray is a weirdo nerd, and I love him for both his intellect and humor.
As for the story, I won’t be going into too much detail because the less you know going in, the better it is going to be. Suffice to say Mayne knows how to get a reader’s blood racing. One small lead from a cold case ends up snowballing into a series of bombshell clues which lead to even bigger and more shocking discoveries. From my experience with The Naturalist, I already know the author is not afraid to go all out, even if it means delving into the realm of the incredible and far-fetched, though in the context of this tale it was easy to just follow along. I’m certainly glad I did with Looking Glass, because I can’t remember the last time I had this much fun with a book.
Hard to believe the first book could have been topped, but I believe Andrew Mayne has done it. I love this series so much, it’s almost ridiculous how badly I want to read more right now. I’m thrilled to discover a third book is already in the works, but the bad news is that it’s not listed to come out until early next year. Oh, this wait is seriously going to suck…
Before I started Looking Glass, I made sure to clear my schedule for the rest of the day because I had a feeling I wouldn’t want to be interrupted. As it turned out, I was right. God help anyone who would have dared disturb me, it sure wouldn’t have been pretty! This was a book I finished in just one sitting, and in that time, you couldn’t have pried it loose from my hands with a crowbar.
This second installment of The Naturalist follows protagonist Theo Cray as he once again digs his heels into a case involving the missing victims of a serial killer. You can jump into it without having read the first book, but just bear in mind there will be some references and spoilers to his time in Montana if you ever have plans to go back and read it. In the aftermath of those events, Theo has become a bit of national celebrity for helping catch a prolific killer, but at the same time, his involvement in such a high-profile case has also made him anathema to the academic community. Stuck doing soul-draining work for the government, Theo finds himself drawn to the hunt again when a distraught father of a missing boy shows up on his doorstep with a request to look into his case.
The only problem? Little Christopher Bostrom disappeared nine years ago, and for most investigators this would mean a cold case with no chance of being solved. Theo, however, is scientist who finds patterns, and after crunching some numbers and doing some database searches, the results he finds are disturbing. Not only was Christopher a likely victim of a serial child abductor and murderer, there is evidence that this killer is still on the loose and active today. The only clues Theo has to go on are a couple of kids’ drawings and an eerie urban legend told among elementary school children about a mysterious figure called the Toy Man.
The author has done it again. I spent most of this book with my heart in my throat, because even when there wasn’t much action on the page, Mayne was able to keep up the intensity and fast pace with his vivid descriptions of the scientific processes and fascinating facts. Looking Glass was an electrifying book that never had me bored for a second. Because so much of what Theo does also involves computational biology, or the study of the development and application of biological data to generate patterns and models, readers with an interest in any of the related scientific fields will likely eat this one right up.
In addition, Theo Cray is fast becoming one of my favorite protagonists. As a vigilante scientist, he’s an unconventional hero, a bit socially awkward and tactless because he’s more used to dealing in facts and not feelings. He’s also frighteningly clever and fast on his feet, using what he knows of social and behavioral patterns to spin elaborate scenarios and identities for himself to get out of sticky situations. What’s more, ever since the events of The Naturalist, Theo’s heart has become hardened which has in turn emboldened him, making him more focused and gutsier when it comes to getting what he needs. When he’s not keeping me on the edge of my seat with his high-risk escapades, he’s making me laugh with his reckless yet ingenious stunts like that one particular incident involving an Amazon delivery box and glowing bacteria. At the end of the day, Theo Cray is a weirdo nerd, and I love him for both his intellect and humor.
As for the story, I won’t be going into too much detail because the less you know going in, the better it is going to be. Suffice to say Mayne knows how to get a reader’s blood racing. One small lead from a cold case ends up snowballing into a series of bombshell clues which lead to even bigger and more shocking discoveries. From my experience with The Naturalist, I already know the author is not afraid to go all out, even if it means delving into the realm of the incredible and far-fetched, though in the context of this tale it was easy to just follow along. I’m certainly glad I did with Looking Glass, because I can’t remember the last time I had this much fun with a book.
Hard to believe the first book could have been topped, but I believe Andrew Mayne has done it. I love this series so much, it’s almost ridiculous how badly I want to read more right now. I’m thrilled to discover a third book is already in the works, but the bad news is that it’s not listed to come out until early next year. Oh, this wait is seriously going to suck…
August 28, 2018
Absolutely superb! Possibly even better than the first one largely because it feeds into all my paranoia about cover ups! If you haven’t read these first two books in this amazing series, I suggest you do ASAP! Recommended.
February 27, 2020
Wow, what an excellent thriller. I haven't read the first book in this series, but I will definitely do it now. I just wanted something like that.
This is not a book for people sensitive to cruelty, especially those sensitive to harm to children. But if you don't mind some gruesome elements in your books, you should definitely read this book.
Theo is not your standard detective or even an amateur sleuth, he is above all a scientist. After the events of the first book, he is involved in tracking down the potential terrorists, work he is not satisfied with. Forced to take a break, he decides to solve the case of a boy who went missing years ago. The case turns out to be much more complicated and much larger than it seems at first.
As I said, Theo is primarily a scientist. So, to find a murderer, he uses the modern scientific methods of social sciences and mathematics. I found it incredibly fascinating. I like this classic police work, but when I read something like that I am fascinated by both the idea itself and the amount of work that the author had to do in preparation for writing this book. And I always wonder what the truth is. Which technologies and theories used by Theo are true or at least can actually be used as described in the book. As a result, we get a story completely different from the others. Really unique.
And a very interesting, remarkable hero. Morally ambiguous. This does not mean that Theo has no moral code or goes against social norms. Not at all. Theo has a strong moral code but his own. It is fascinating to observe his moral dilemmas and discover where his boundaries are placed. That is why the narrative in first person that I usually don't like didn’t disturbed me here. Theo's determined, somewhat cynical, sometimes slightly chill voice gave this story an additional, interesting aspect.
In contrast, the case of murders is not so unlike what we can find in other books. Yes, these are terrifying crimes with an interesting side thread, but nothing extraordinary. This absolutely does not mean that the plot is not interesting. This book is so well written that I liked things I usually don't like. Usually I prefer not to know who the killer is and I prefer when the detective's goal is to discover the perpetrator of the crime. And here, we learn a lot about the killer very early. And the whole thing comes down to catching him rather than finding out what happened to the boys. But all this is given in such a remarkable form, and the action is so fast that I was delighted.
I would definitely recommend this book to any thriller fan. This is for sure one of the best books I've read recently. And proof that the book does not have to be excessively long to be excellent and contain a whole lot of twists and turns. I feel like recently the authors of thrillers have fallen into some trend of writing unnecessarily long books. This is an excellent example that it can be done differently.
This is not a book for people sensitive to cruelty, especially those sensitive to harm to children. But if you don't mind some gruesome elements in your books, you should definitely read this book.
Theo is not your standard detective or even an amateur sleuth, he is above all a scientist. After the events of the first book, he is involved in tracking down the potential terrorists, work he is not satisfied with. Forced to take a break, he decides to solve the case of a boy who went missing years ago. The case turns out to be much more complicated and much larger than it seems at first.
As I said, Theo is primarily a scientist. So, to find a murderer, he uses the modern scientific methods of social sciences and mathematics. I found it incredibly fascinating. I like this classic police work, but when I read something like that I am fascinated by both the idea itself and the amount of work that the author had to do in preparation for writing this book. And I always wonder what the truth is. Which technologies and theories used by Theo are true or at least can actually be used as described in the book. As a result, we get a story completely different from the others. Really unique.
And a very interesting, remarkable hero. Morally ambiguous. This does not mean that Theo has no moral code or goes against social norms. Not at all. Theo has a strong moral code but his own. It is fascinating to observe his moral dilemmas and discover where his boundaries are placed. That is why the narrative in first person that I usually don't like didn’t disturbed me here. Theo's determined, somewhat cynical, sometimes slightly chill voice gave this story an additional, interesting aspect.
In contrast, the case of murders is not so unlike what we can find in other books. Yes, these are terrifying crimes with an interesting side thread, but nothing extraordinary. This absolutely does not mean that the plot is not interesting. This book is so well written that I liked things I usually don't like. Usually I prefer not to know who the killer is and I prefer when the detective's goal is to discover the perpetrator of the crime. And here, we learn a lot about the killer very early. And the whole thing comes down to catching him rather than finding out what happened to the boys. But all this is given in such a remarkable form, and the action is so fast that I was delighted.
I would definitely recommend this book to any thriller fan. This is for sure one of the best books I've read recently. And proof that the book does not have to be excessively long to be excellent and contain a whole lot of twists and turns. I feel like recently the authors of thrillers have fallen into some trend of writing unnecessarily long books. This is an excellent example that it can be done differently.
September 3, 2019
I’m just as happy with this book as I was with The Naturalist! Dr. Theo Cray is gaining experience in hunting serial killers, and this book exposes him to a dark political underworld. I think I’m going to have to read Murder Theory, the next book, immediately!
February 8, 2024
Між Фазами Місяця - Ендрю Мейн
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Я вже чекаю переклад третьої частини пригод професора Клея.
Як тут все було смачно - і детальне та важке розслідування, і несподівані повороти сюжету.
Тут головному герою довелось мандрувати по країні, бо новий противник мав значно більший досвід та послужний список за попереднього пійманого звіру.
Протагоніст для мене - взірець в швидкості прийняття рішень та відвазі. Він не боїться слухати власну інтуїцію (в мене є така проблемка) та не рахується з авторитетами (база).
Обов'язково раджу до читання всім любителям детективів-трилерів.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Я вже чекаю переклад третьої частини пригод професора Клея.
Як тут все було смачно - і детальне та важке розслідування, і несподівані повороти сюжету.
Тут головному герою довелось мандрувати по країні, бо новий противник мав значно більший досвід та послужний список за попереднього пійманого звіру.
Протагоніст для мене - взірець в швидкості прийняття рішень та відвазі. Він не боїться слухати власну інтуїцію (в мене є така проблемка) та не рахується з авторитетами (база).
Обов'язково раджу до читання всім любителям детективів-трилерів.
April 21, 2018
Professor Theo Cray has a reputation as a rogue scientist willing to do anything to catch a killer. Having just used every scientific and investigative tool at his disposal to catch a serial killer in Montana, Cray is approached by a father whose son disappeared 9 years before. The police assumed the boy was involved in gang activity because the area of South California he disappeared in is known for violence. His father knows better. Cray agrees to look into it, and finds that a killer called the "Toy Man'' has been stalking, enticing and murdering young, black boys for years. Once again acting outside of law enforcement, Cray is on the trail of a dangerous serial killer and making use of every revolutionary scientific approach he knows to pinpoint a suspect, getting himself into hot water again in the process.
Looking Glass is the second book in the Naturalist series, but the first book by Andrew Mayne that I have read. Readers can jump in and start the series with book two like I did, but be forewarned that lots of information about the first story is revealed during the second book. I don't mind....I'm still going to backtrack and read the first book, even though I know who the killer is already and some of the events leading up to his capture. Cray is an interesting character. He is highly intelligent and very knowledgeable about scientific investigation, procedure and testing. He thinks in a purely logical manner, which makes emotion and social situations a bit tough for him. He tends to come off as a jerk, but it's really just directness and true knowledge, not know-it-all jerkishness. He annoys law enforcement because he bypasses their investigations when they refuse to listen to him. He solves cases they can't solve themselves and doesn't care whose toes he steps on. When I first started Looking Glass, I had a hard time liking this character. He really did come off as a bit of a self-absorbed academic. But, then I got pulled into the story and came to understand that Theo Cray merely looks at all things in a purely logical and scientific manner. He has a goal and uses everything in his disposal to reach that goal -- this time, it's catching a serial killer preying on children. It wasn't long before I was totally on Cray's side, forgiving him for his personality.
This story is well-written and just amazing. The suspense is fantastic and the investigation is incredibly interesting. Cray has access to new scientific tests and tools that help him ferret out clues. Whether or not these things are actually available I have no clue....but the science seemed credible enough to me. I'm no expert....so I just went with the flow and enjoyed the story. Loved it! By the end, I was completely immersed in the story. The ending is fantastic! (No spoilers from me! Read the book!)
A third book in this series, Murder Theory, will be coming out in February, 2019. I can't wait!! I will be backtracking to read the first book, The Naturalist. Andrew Mayne has written several other books including the Station Breaker series and the Jessica Blackwood novels. I will be reading his other books while I wait for the new Theo Cray novel.
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this novel from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Looking Glass is the second book in the Naturalist series, but the first book by Andrew Mayne that I have read. Readers can jump in and start the series with book two like I did, but be forewarned that lots of information about the first story is revealed during the second book. I don't mind....I'm still going to backtrack and read the first book, even though I know who the killer is already and some of the events leading up to his capture. Cray is an interesting character. He is highly intelligent and very knowledgeable about scientific investigation, procedure and testing. He thinks in a purely logical manner, which makes emotion and social situations a bit tough for him. He tends to come off as a jerk, but it's really just directness and true knowledge, not know-it-all jerkishness. He annoys law enforcement because he bypasses their investigations when they refuse to listen to him. He solves cases they can't solve themselves and doesn't care whose toes he steps on. When I first started Looking Glass, I had a hard time liking this character. He really did come off as a bit of a self-absorbed academic. But, then I got pulled into the story and came to understand that Theo Cray merely looks at all things in a purely logical and scientific manner. He has a goal and uses everything in his disposal to reach that goal -- this time, it's catching a serial killer preying on children. It wasn't long before I was totally on Cray's side, forgiving him for his personality.
This story is well-written and just amazing. The suspense is fantastic and the investigation is incredibly interesting. Cray has access to new scientific tests and tools that help him ferret out clues. Whether or not these things are actually available I have no clue....but the science seemed credible enough to me. I'm no expert....so I just went with the flow and enjoyed the story. Loved it! By the end, I was completely immersed in the story. The ending is fantastic! (No spoilers from me! Read the book!)
A third book in this series, Murder Theory, will be coming out in February, 2019. I can't wait!! I will be backtracking to read the first book, The Naturalist. Andrew Mayne has written several other books including the Station Breaker series and the Jessica Blackwood novels. I will be reading his other books while I wait for the new Theo Cray novel.
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this novel from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
March 15, 2023
İlk kitapta sinirimi bozan her şey burada da vardı. Peki neden devam ettim? Ben de inanın anlam veremiyorum kendime. Baş karakter aslında aşırı bilimsel yöntemlerle katilleri bulan ama her nedense bunu siz hepiniz ben tek kafasında yapan, sosyopat olması muhtemel bir karakter. Böyle düşününce sosyopat demek de doğru değil bence, ama psikiyatrik bozukluk skalasında nerede çözemedim. Seviyor muyum katlanamıyor muyum arada kalıyorum sürekli. Her yere cengaver gibi tek başına gitmesi, o sonlardaki hapishane sahnesi felan bunlar aksiyon filmlerinde gerçek olamayacak şekilde iyi sonlanan şeyler gibi bence. Bitirmeye yaklaşırken daha okumam heralde bu seriden dedim ama bitirdikten sonra acaba sonrakini de okusam mı diye düşünmeden edemedim. Böyle iki arada bir derede hissettiğim garip bir seri kısacası.
March 13, 2022
Another page turner. Some places in book were drawn out and technical but overall a great read.
February 17, 2020
Enganchada a este científico caza asesinos y sus peculiares métodos. Los libros se leen del tirón, lástima que de momento no hay más traducidos. Toca esperar pero merece la pena.
March 11, 2023
3,5 / 5
Bu ben tek hepinize karşı kurguları J. Wick veya J. Bauer değilse pek sevmiyorum 😏
Bir de yazarın bilimsel konuları bu kadar detaylandırarak anlatması ne derece gerekli? Amaç sayfa sayısını mı arttırmak 🤔
Bu ben tek hepinize karşı kurguları J. Wick veya J. Bauer değilse pek sevmiyorum 😏
Bir de yazarın bilimsel konuları bu kadar detaylandırarak anlatması ne derece gerekli? Amaç sayfa sayısını mı arttırmak 🤔
June 8, 2021
Looking Glass', book two in The Naturalist series by Andrew Mayne, is a superb thriller! I'm in love - with the book, with the series, with Dr. Theo Cray, with Mayne - the whole package. Mr. Mayne, I will be buying every novel you write!
I am copying the book blurb because it is accurate:
"Professor Theo Cray caught one of the most prolific serial killers in history using revolutionary scientific methods. Cut off from university research because of the shroud of suspicion around him after the death of his former student and the aftermath of catching his quarry, Cray tries to rebuild his life but finds himself drawn into another unsolved case.
The desperate father of a missing child, ignored by the authorities and abandoned by his community, turns to Theo for help. The only clues are children’s drawings and an inner-city urban legend about someone called the Toy Man.
To unravel the mystery behind the Toy Man, Theo must set aside his scientific preconceptions and embrace a world where dreams and nightmares carry just as much weight as reality. As he becomes immersed in the case, he discovers a far-reaching conspiracy—one that hasn’t yet claimed its last victim."
Cray is developing into a very tough guy! Originally, in 'The Naturalist', book one, Dr. Cray was a self-involved scientist geek more comfortable with mathematics and computer algorithms than he was with murder and serial killers and corrupt police.
Because of his exposure to both criminals and the varying forces of the law supposedly enforcing the legal system of America in the previous book, he has upped his game. He no longer is a university professor but he has become a civilian operative working for a Defense Intelligence Agency contractor called OpenSkyAI. His desk job is to sort through data points, searching for clues to terrorists who are enemies of the United States.
The shocks he had after a student he liked was murdered in Montana by a serial killer affected Clay profoundly. He has changed his entire life as a result. Although he is working for the government, he no longer trusts any officials of any kind, suspecting they will be compromised in performing their duties by politics or ambition. So far, he has been correct. On his own, he has learned to shoot a gun and he has taken martial arts lessons.
The people he works for have their agenda, Clay has his. Sometimes the agendas intersect, but sometimes they don't. When they don't, Clay has learned how and when to cover his ass when he goes off-script. Clay wants to actually track down and stop killers. Officials often do not....
In his narrative, Clay knew he was different from most people, and most certainly he is a genius, but he never really knew or cared before how different he is. In tracking down the Toy Man, he realizes suddenly the line between himself and serial killers is only one of who they each have chosen to hunt. Gentle reader, "looking glass" is another term for mirror.
Clay uses a lot of science studies and logic to aid him in his hunts. Some readers will feel there are too many "info dumps", I suppose, of various science methodologies, although the "dumps" are rarely more than a few paragraphs. However, for me, Clay is as logical as a Vulcan and as passionate for justice as Sherlock Holmes. In fact, I suspect it is Arthur Conan Doyle's character of Sherlock Holmes Mayne is tribute-imitating in the creation of Theo Clay. The similarities are striking! Looking glasses indeed.
I am copying the book blurb because it is accurate:
"Professor Theo Cray caught one of the most prolific serial killers in history using revolutionary scientific methods. Cut off from university research because of the shroud of suspicion around him after the death of his former student and the aftermath of catching his quarry, Cray tries to rebuild his life but finds himself drawn into another unsolved case.
The desperate father of a missing child, ignored by the authorities and abandoned by his community, turns to Theo for help. The only clues are children’s drawings and an inner-city urban legend about someone called the Toy Man.
To unravel the mystery behind the Toy Man, Theo must set aside his scientific preconceptions and embrace a world where dreams and nightmares carry just as much weight as reality. As he becomes immersed in the case, he discovers a far-reaching conspiracy—one that hasn’t yet claimed its last victim."
Cray is developing into a very tough guy! Originally, in 'The Naturalist', book one, Dr. Cray was a self-involved scientist geek more comfortable with mathematics and computer algorithms than he was with murder and serial killers and corrupt police.
Because of his exposure to both criminals and the varying forces of the law supposedly enforcing the legal system of America in the previous book, he has upped his game. He no longer is a university professor but he has become a civilian operative working for a Defense Intelligence Agency contractor called OpenSkyAI. His desk job is to sort through data points, searching for clues to terrorists who are enemies of the United States.
The shocks he had after a student he liked was murdered in Montana by a serial killer affected Clay profoundly. He has changed his entire life as a result. Although he is working for the government, he no longer trusts any officials of any kind, suspecting they will be compromised in performing their duties by politics or ambition. So far, he has been correct. On his own, he has learned to shoot a gun and he has taken martial arts lessons.
The people he works for have their agenda, Clay has his. Sometimes the agendas intersect, but sometimes they don't. When they don't, Clay has learned how and when to cover his ass when he goes off-script. Clay wants to actually track down and stop killers. Officials often do not....
In his narrative, Clay knew he was different from most people, and most certainly he is a genius, but he never really knew or cared before how different he is. In tracking down the Toy Man, he realizes suddenly the line between himself and serial killers is only one of who they each have chosen to hunt. Gentle reader, "looking glass" is another term for mirror.
Clay uses a lot of science studies and logic to aid him in his hunts. Some readers will feel there are too many "info dumps", I suppose, of various science methodologies, although the "dumps" are rarely more than a few paragraphs. However, for me, Clay is as logical as a Vulcan and as passionate for justice as Sherlock Holmes. In fact, I suspect it is Arthur Conan Doyle's character of Sherlock Holmes Mayne is tribute-imitating in the creation of Theo Clay. The similarities are striking! Looking glasses indeed.
June 18, 2022
Very chaotic, very fun, very few brain cells required.
October 13, 2023
перша частина мені сподобалась трохи більше, але й ця була цікавою! серед трилерів — дуже класний представник жанру, читається легко і швидко за рахунок коротких розділів і динамічного сюжету, сам сюжет — цікаве розслідування серійний вбивств, в тексті згадуються навіть реальні маніяки і їхні діяння, тож, думаю, любителям тру крайму(кажу, як любителька тру крайму) має сподобатись історія про розслідування Тео Крея (він, до речі, дуже класний головний герой). коротше кажучи, хороша і захоплива книжка!
February 10, 2020
«Розслідування, яке веде науковець? I’m in!» - так подумала я і підсіла на цю серію. Єдина маленька проблемка полягає в тому, що деякі наукові методи, описані американцем Мейном, звучать для мене, українки, як наукова фантастика. Ця тема з бактеріями дійсно існує?! Я б не відмовилася від післямови, де б такі речі розібрали і пояснили. А оскільки до цього ніхто не додумався, то доводиться мучити googlе, очікуючи третю частину)))
February 14, 2020
Цьому світу потрібен герой і ім'я йому Тео Крей! Справді, що може бути кращим за привабливого, дещо соціопатичного, дико розумного та милого месника-науковця?)
Дуже динамічна річ, без зайвих деталей - гарний детектив і навіть певні малоймовірні "збіги" не зіпсували задоволення від читання. Серію рекомендую :)
Дуже динамічна річ, без зайвих деталей - гарний детектив і навіть певні малоймовірні "збіги" не зіпсували задоволення від читання. Серію рекомендую :)
May 28, 2023
There is no doubt that Professor Theo Cray is highly intelligent. He proved that in The Naturalist where he caught a serial killer in Montana the authorities didn't know existed. But he also lacks people skills and manages to alienate just about everyone. He lost his previous job because of suspicion around him and now in his new job with a contractor assisting the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) he has managed to piss off his boss.
The father of a missing child turns to Theo for help. Although his son has been missing for years and it is unlikey he is alive the father is looking for justice. Theo decides now is a good time to take some time off from his job and agrees to help. The investigation takes him first to Los Angeles where he discovers an inner-city urban legend about someone called the Toy Man. A black Santa type figure who brings toys to good boys and punishes the bad boys. Calls to police, if there are any, from the poor neighborhood are largely ignored. When Theo uncovers irrefutable evidence of a serial killer the police treat him like an interloper.
Undeterred Theo follows the evidence to Atlanta. By this point he is convinced there is a conspiracy that involves a cover up. A conspiracy protecting a serial killer. And there is another victim out there that Theo needs to save. Atlanta was the scene of horrific child murders between 1979 and 1980 and Theo's investigation is reopening a wound that never heals but he doesn't care. There is another child out there he needs to save. Only this time there is a conspiracy to protect the killer.
The father of a missing child turns to Theo for help. Although his son has been missing for years and it is unlikey he is alive the father is looking for justice. Theo decides now is a good time to take some time off from his job and agrees to help. The investigation takes him first to Los Angeles where he discovers an inner-city urban legend about someone called the Toy Man. A black Santa type figure who brings toys to good boys and punishes the bad boys. Calls to police, if there are any, from the poor neighborhood are largely ignored. When Theo uncovers irrefutable evidence of a serial killer the police treat him like an interloper.
Undeterred Theo follows the evidence to Atlanta. By this point he is convinced there is a conspiracy that involves a cover up. A conspiracy protecting a serial killer. And there is another victim out there that Theo needs to save. Atlanta was the scene of horrific child murders between 1979 and 1980 and Theo's investigation is reopening a wound that never heals but he doesn't care. There is another child out there he needs to save. Only this time there is a conspiracy to protect the killer.
May 6, 2018
Great Series
This is the second installment of The Naturalist series. Dr. Theo Cray started out as a professor, now he works in the murky world of national security. His talents are valuable tools for catching serial killers.
This is the second installment of The Naturalist series. Dr. Theo Cray started out as a professor, now he works in the murky world of national security. His talents are valuable tools for catching serial killers.
July 23, 2023
I do love this series, imperfections and all!
Imagine a scientific genius. Our professor is a bit of a paranoid misanthrope; on the other hand, he's come to care deeply about unaccounted-for missing persons after one of his own students was killed in the first book. Thanks to his very successful ideas on finding killers, he's been snapped up by a super secret branch of the government to work on anti-terrorism efforts. Now our genius has his big brain AND resources. A government ID badge doesn't hurt, either.
This time, a grieving father approaches Dr. Theo Cray. His son, Christopher, was only 9 when he never came home from school. The police found Chris' bike on the side of a road and they knocked on neighbors' doors, but the case got cold. Although the crime happened nearly a decade before, he is still desperate for answers and justice. The location makes it challenging: Christopher lived in South Central LA, an area saturated with high crime, poverty, drugs and violence. Finding a killer in this target-rich environment isn't like finding a needle in a haystack; it's more like which needle is the needle we're looking for?
This is my second Andrew Mayne novel, and I really like his style. He uses lots of short chapters that keep the pace flying, and all the science gives it a researched flavor. Where he loses me a little is that Theo often gets incredibly lucky, and the outcomes have (so far) been wildly far-fetched. Still, I've had more fun with these books than I have with most others. I'm willing to trade plausibility for a good, fast-paced story with a MC I can root for.
Imagine a scientific genius. Our professor is a bit of a paranoid misanthrope; on the other hand, he's come to care deeply about unaccounted-for missing persons after one of his own students was killed in the first book. Thanks to his very successful ideas on finding killers, he's been snapped up by a super secret branch of the government to work on anti-terrorism efforts. Now our genius has his big brain AND resources. A government ID badge doesn't hurt, either.
This time, a grieving father approaches Dr. Theo Cray. His son, Christopher, was only 9 when he never came home from school. The police found Chris' bike on the side of a road and they knocked on neighbors' doors, but the case got cold. Although the crime happened nearly a decade before, he is still desperate for answers and justice. The location makes it challenging: Christopher lived in South Central LA, an area saturated with high crime, poverty, drugs and violence. Finding a killer in this target-rich environment isn't like finding a needle in a haystack; it's more like which needle is the needle we're looking for?
This is my second Andrew Mayne novel, and I really like his style. He uses lots of short chapters that keep the pace flying, and all the science gives it a researched flavor. Where he loses me a little is that Theo often gets incredibly lucky, and the outcomes have (so far) been wildly far-fetched. Still, I've had more fun with these books than I have with most others. I'm willing to trade plausibility for a good, fast-paced story with a MC I can root for.
April 7, 2018
First Sentence: Tiko kicked the deflated soccer ball down the alley, laughing as MauMau, the tan puppy with the chewed-up ear, chased it into the puddle, his too-big paws splattering mud and droplets everywhere.
Professor Theo Cray is trying to put his life back on track after having been responsible for the capture of a mass serial killer. The father of a missing child has been ignored by law enforcement and sees Theo as the last hope for finding his child. The only clue is the child’s bike still where the boy was last seen, and stories of “The Toy Man.” As Theo investigates, it’s clear that this is a case of more than one missing child.
Mayne has written an opening that tears at your heart but won’t let you stop reading. One is drawn into the suspense almost immediately. You are also drawn to the character—“What does your get say?” “I’m a scientist. I’ve trained myself not to have a gut.” One is also drawn to the fact that Mayne is an author who truly makes one think—“The real danger is that the good guys will blindly keep doing bad things that they don’t see as bad. It’s why people who would give the shirt off their back to help the poor and the hungry will then march against genetically modified food, even if such food products could save millions of children from blindness or starvation. It’s when people who want democracy in the Middle East find themselves building military bases instead of schools and hospitals.”
This is one painful book to read. One is only peripherally aware of how many children, in fact, especially those from families of illegals, broken homes and those afraid to talk to the authorities are missing and that there is next to nothing being done to find them. A major clue in the story is nearly as disturbing, but very effective for it so being.
One weakness the plot has is the redundant references back to Cray’s previous case. It almost seems to be a plot filler and takes the effectiveness away from this story. There is, however, one link made which does work—“Don’t think just because you survived one monster you’ll survive the next. I’m alive because I kept running from them. Not to them.”
Mayne does creepy well. He excels at creepy. He creates visual images that may stay with one, but one certainly hopes they don’t.
The scientific information can, at times, be a bit overwhelming. But it is fascinating and not so complex that one doesn’t get the gist of what is being conveyed. Even Cray’s analysis can make one think—“Every murder has at least five important factors: a victim, a means of death, a location, a time, and a murderer. Solving for one or more of them can lead you to a solution, much like an equation, assuming they’re not all random.”
The link between the killings is unique. And then Mayne introduces the tried, true, and highly effective element of racing against the clock.
It helps that Mayne’s humor lightens the darkness of the events—“There has to be some other distraction that doesn’t involve a siren and dead hostages. Shit. There is. There’s actually an app for that.” He throws in an effective plot twist, and some excellent advice--“Never believe anything that’s reported in the first twenty-four hours. In the age of social media, this is especially true.”
The story contains a lot of information, some of which may not interest everyone but may well fascinate others. One might wish for author notes.
“Looking Glass” is a twisty, grim, and takes one to unexpected places. While not Mayne’s best book, it keeps one reading non-stop from page one to the very end.
LOOKING GLASS (Trad Mys-Theo Cray-US-Contemp) – G+
Mayne, Andrew – 2nd in series
Thomas & Mercer – March, 2018
Professor Theo Cray is trying to put his life back on track after having been responsible for the capture of a mass serial killer. The father of a missing child has been ignored by law enforcement and sees Theo as the last hope for finding his child. The only clue is the child’s bike still where the boy was last seen, and stories of “The Toy Man.” As Theo investigates, it’s clear that this is a case of more than one missing child.
Mayne has written an opening that tears at your heart but won’t let you stop reading. One is drawn into the suspense almost immediately. You are also drawn to the character—“What does your get say?” “I’m a scientist. I’ve trained myself not to have a gut.” One is also drawn to the fact that Mayne is an author who truly makes one think—“The real danger is that the good guys will blindly keep doing bad things that they don’t see as bad. It’s why people who would give the shirt off their back to help the poor and the hungry will then march against genetically modified food, even if such food products could save millions of children from blindness or starvation. It’s when people who want democracy in the Middle East find themselves building military bases instead of schools and hospitals.”
This is one painful book to read. One is only peripherally aware of how many children, in fact, especially those from families of illegals, broken homes and those afraid to talk to the authorities are missing and that there is next to nothing being done to find them. A major clue in the story is nearly as disturbing, but very effective for it so being.
One weakness the plot has is the redundant references back to Cray’s previous case. It almost seems to be a plot filler and takes the effectiveness away from this story. There is, however, one link made which does work—“Don’t think just because you survived one monster you’ll survive the next. I’m alive because I kept running from them. Not to them.”
Mayne does creepy well. He excels at creepy. He creates visual images that may stay with one, but one certainly hopes they don’t.
The scientific information can, at times, be a bit overwhelming. But it is fascinating and not so complex that one doesn’t get the gist of what is being conveyed. Even Cray’s analysis can make one think—“Every murder has at least five important factors: a victim, a means of death, a location, a time, and a murderer. Solving for one or more of them can lead you to a solution, much like an equation, assuming they’re not all random.”
The link between the killings is unique. And then Mayne introduces the tried, true, and highly effective element of racing against the clock.
It helps that Mayne’s humor lightens the darkness of the events—“There has to be some other distraction that doesn’t involve a siren and dead hostages. Shit. There is. There’s actually an app for that.” He throws in an effective plot twist, and some excellent advice--“Never believe anything that’s reported in the first twenty-four hours. In the age of social media, this is especially true.”
The story contains a lot of information, some of which may not interest everyone but may well fascinate others. One might wish for author notes.
“Looking Glass” is a twisty, grim, and takes one to unexpected places. While not Mayne’s best book, it keeps one reading non-stop from page one to the very end.
LOOKING GLASS (Trad Mys-Theo Cray-US-Contemp) – G+
Mayne, Andrew – 2nd in series
Thomas & Mercer – March, 2018
March 14, 2018
4.5 of 5 stars
It's ridiculous how much I'm enjoying this series - I love 'em.
RTF
It's ridiculous how much I'm enjoying this series - I love 'em.
RTF
May 12, 2024
Another Cleverly Plotted Serial Killer Story
This is the second book about Theo Cray that I have read and its another excellent story. Some stories are just fun but this was is so clever. It started out with what truly seemed to be an impossible case and yet somehow Theo is smart enough to actually find clues. And then he starts closing in on a suspect too... It's truly amazing! How does he do that?? And he is not scared to break rules or even the law if that is what he has to do..many of his ideas are very unorthodox as well which certainly adds more excitement to the plot.
So I read this whole book in one day. Yes it was that good! Some books make me feel sleepy but not this one. Its far too interesting. What will Theo do next? What will he find? And he certainly finds some gory stuff in here!
This particular story is about a serial killer called the Toy Man. And he is a very prolific one unfortunately. His preferred prey is young boys from disadvantaged neighborhoods. I guess he hopes they are less likely to be reported missing. But Theo is now on the case in Los Angeles California.
I like Theo in these cases as he is very smart and he isn't scared to break a few rules to catch the killer. Since he isn't law enforcement he doesn't have the power they do but then he knows stuff they certainly don't. These tales are very unpredictable which certainly makes them more fun to read. They are great for the smart reader. In here Theo uses many of his own items in the hunt, things like computer programs, various strange sprays, cameras and all sorts of stuff. Since he is a scientist he has no real idea how to trail someone properly and at times he is caught doing the most bizarre things (which is kind of funny as then how in the world do you explain that)?
These books have strange covers but the stories are so fascinating! You definitely need to try these.
This is the second book about Theo Cray that I have read and its another excellent story. Some stories are just fun but this was is so clever. It started out with what truly seemed to be an impossible case and yet somehow Theo is smart enough to actually find clues. And then he starts closing in on a suspect too... It's truly amazing! How does he do that?? And he is not scared to break rules or even the law if that is what he has to do..many of his ideas are very unorthodox as well which certainly adds more excitement to the plot.
So I read this whole book in one day. Yes it was that good! Some books make me feel sleepy but not this one. Its far too interesting. What will Theo do next? What will he find? And he certainly finds some gory stuff in here!
This particular story is about a serial killer called the Toy Man. And he is a very prolific one unfortunately. His preferred prey is young boys from disadvantaged neighborhoods. I guess he hopes they are less likely to be reported missing. But Theo is now on the case in Los Angeles California.
I like Theo in these cases as he is very smart and he isn't scared to break a few rules to catch the killer. Since he isn't law enforcement he doesn't have the power they do but then he knows stuff they certainly don't. These tales are very unpredictable which certainly makes them more fun to read. They are great for the smart reader. In here Theo uses many of his own items in the hunt, things like computer programs, various strange sprays, cameras and all sorts of stuff. Since he is a scientist he has no real idea how to trail someone properly and at times he is caught doing the most bizarre things (which is kind of funny as then how in the world do you explain that)?
These books have strange covers but the stories are so fascinating! You definitely need to try these.
March 16, 2018
Another fantastic read from Mayne!
I eagerly awaited the next book after the terrific book, The Naturalist. Of course, I was hoping this book would live up to the other one. I'm here to tell you it's even better.
I love the way the hero uses science as both his means to investigate and to capture the bad guy. The story was gripping and fast paced. An easy read even with the level of technical detail. I've read plenty of crime fiction, thrillers, suspense, etc and Mayne is, quite simply, one of the best.
I eagerly awaited the next book after the terrific book, The Naturalist. Of course, I was hoping this book would live up to the other one. I'm here to tell you it's even better.
I love the way the hero uses science as both his means to investigate and to capture the bad guy. The story was gripping and fast paced. An easy read even with the level of technical detail. I've read plenty of crime fiction, thrillers, suspense, etc and Mayne is, quite simply, one of the best.
January 29, 2024
This is the second book in The Naturalist series. Dr. Theo Cray is a brilliant but socially awkward scientist who hunts down serial killers. He has a penchant to “go rogue,” stretching the boundaries of what he is legally allowed to do, which repeatedly gets him in trouble. He is also adept at finding ways to get himself out of trouble using his creative intelligence and logic. This story fills in the answers to some of the questions left hanging at the end of the first book; however, this second book can easily be read as a standalone. The story here revolves around a missing child whose father asks Theo for help. Theo’s search takes him from Los Angeles to Atlanta, and centers around a mysterious Toy Man.
The best part of this book, for me, is the scientific detail and the train of thought in which Theo simultaneously breaks down and analyzes the data while also assembling the bigger picture. Theo is a great character, and it is easy to root for him. This book is rather outside my normal reading, as I tend to avoid books about serial killers, but in this instance, we do not witness any of the killings on the page. It is more an after-the-fact investigation, along with an attempt to prevent further harm. Toward the end it turns into a thriller and stretches the believability meter, but I enjoyed it more than most thrillers I’ve read. Regular readers of the genre will probably enjoy it even more than I did.
3.5
The best part of this book, for me, is the scientific detail and the train of thought in which Theo simultaneously breaks down and analyzes the data while also assembling the bigger picture. Theo is a great character, and it is easy to root for him. This book is rather outside my normal reading, as I tend to avoid books about serial killers, but in this instance, we do not witness any of the killings on the page. It is more an after-the-fact investigation, along with an attempt to prevent further harm. Toward the end it turns into a thriller and stretches the believability meter, but I enjoyed it more than most thrillers I’ve read. Regular readers of the genre will probably enjoy it even more than I did.
3.5
April 16, 2019
Tohle je přímo ukázkový případ toho, co se nazývá "čtivo". Krátké kapitoly, končící vždycky tak, aby vás táhli kupředu, bizarní sériový vrah... a aby čtenář neměl pocit čisté cukrové vaty, jsou přihozená i nějaká sociální témata (někdo unáší a zabijí děti z nižších sociálních skupin) a samozřejmě, spoustu faktů - ať z přírody nebo ze života sériových vrahů. Potud by to byla knížka, kterou byste mohli vycpat a používat na literárních školách jako učební pomůcků. Do toho hrdina, který má sklon být lehce autistický... což je sice módní, ale díky tomu se autor vyhýbá tomu, aby musel na každé stránce projevovat emoce, plakat či stydět se za svou bílou pleť - a může se soustředit čistě na pohyb vpřed, na řešení problémů.
Do té chvíle je do to fajn... i když si člověk říká, že to hrdinovi všechno až nějak moc vychází, každá stopa vede dál. Dokonce člověk odpustí autorovi i to, že se police chová účelově jako skupina pitomců, jenom proto, aby mohl být hrdina zase proti všem. I to, že tady fakt tlačí na pilu ohledně počtu mrtvých. Jakoby si říkal, že čím víc mrtvých, tím lepší román. Ale pak přichází poslední třetina. A tak je fakt špatná. Do příběhu se sériovým vrahem vstupuje nový prvek, který je podivný a nesmyslný a najednou se celé finále z konfrontace s psychopatem mění v politický thriller, kde je samo dopadení vraha v podstatě nepodstatné a odbyté (stejně jako jeho motivy a spousta dalších věcí). Je to proto, že si autor netroufl udělat souboj čistě mezi černým vrahem a bílým hrdinou... nebo si myslel, že to nestačí a potřebuje tam přihodit něco většího? Jasně, udělat uspokojivý konec je u thrilleru vždycky to nejtěžší, ale udělat takhle neuspokojivý konec... to je fakt umění.
Do té chvíle je do to fajn... i když si člověk říká, že to hrdinovi všechno až nějak moc vychází, každá stopa vede dál. Dokonce člověk odpustí autorovi i to, že se police chová účelově jako skupina pitomců, jenom proto, aby mohl být hrdina zase proti všem. I to, že tady fakt tlačí na pilu ohledně počtu mrtvých. Jakoby si říkal, že čím víc mrtvých, tím lepší román. Ale pak přichází poslední třetina. A tak je fakt špatná. Do příběhu se sériovým vrahem vstupuje nový prvek, který je podivný a nesmyslný a najednou se celé finále z konfrontace s psychopatem mění v politický thriller, kde je samo dopadení vraha v podstatě nepodstatné a odbyté (stejně jako jeho motivy a spousta dalších věcí). Je to proto, že si autor netroufl udělat souboj čistě mezi černým vrahem a bílým hrdinou... nebo si myslel, že to nestačí a potřebuje tam přihodit něco většího? Jasně, udělat uspokojivý konec je u thrilleru vždycky to nejtěžší, ale udělat takhle neuspokojivý konec... to je fakt umění.
July 5, 2018
I read this book immediately after finishing The Naturalist. I adored the first book and the second was nearly as good. The killer is quite different in this story--a sort of Voodoo boogey man. The ending stretched the vigilante theme, and reality, a bit too far IMHO. But nevertheless, this is still a white-knuckled read that kept me engrossed and I love the character of Dr. Theo Cray. I highly recommend both "The Naturalist" and this sequel.
You can read my longer review of The Naturalist here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
You can read my longer review of The Naturalist here:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
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