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Forensic Mysteries #1
The Christopher Killer
Fascinated by forensics, seventeen-year-old Cameryn Mahoney persuades her father, the county coroner in sleepy Silverton, CO, to take her on as his assistant. But she never expects her first case to involve the death of a friend! Rachel Geller, a beautiful young waitress, is found strangled in a field with a Christopher medal around her neck—clearly marking her as the fourth victim of a serial killer. Cameryn is determined to help find Rachel’s killer, and attending the autopsy gives her the first clue. But as she follows her instincts and gets closer to the killer, Cameryn suddenly finds herself on the verge of becoming his fifth victim!
288 pages, Hardcover
First published May 4, 2006
128 people are currently reading
3158 people want to read
About the author
Alane Ferguson
42 books265 followersAlane Ferguson was born in Cumberland, Maryland, in 1957. She attended the University of Utah and Westminster College where she studied journalism. Later, Alane became interested in writing for children, mostly, she says, to follow the example of her mother, successful author Gloria Skurzynski. Her mother has written over fifty-seven books for children, while Alane is currently completing her thirty-second. Alane and her mother co-authored a series for National Geographic. Their novel, WOLF STALKER, was the first work of fiction National Geographic had published in its as of then 109 year history. WOLF STALKER was nominated for the 1998 Mystery Writer's of America's Edgar Allan Poe Award and the newest and 13th book in the series, NIGHT OF THE BLACK BEAR, was launched in spring of 2007. A recipient of the 1990 Edgar Allan Poe Award as well as the Belgium's Children's Choice Award for her young adult novel SHOW ME THE EVIDENCE, Alane was also a nominee for her third young-adult mystery, POISON. She received a 2007 Edgar nomination for her young adult novel, THE CHRISTOPHER KILLER, the first in the Sleuth Forensic Mystery series. Alane won the Children's Crown Classic Award for CRICKET ANDTHE CRACKERBOX KID, the American Bookseller's Association's "Pick of the List" for her picture book entitled THAT NEW PET, and has been on numerous ALA Recommended Books for Reluctant Young Readers and Young Adult's Choice list.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 520 reviews
January 10, 2021
It had potential but it didn't work for me! A very average 2.5-star read.
The blurb sounded intriguing and it started out well but then I faced my ongoing conundrum with novels of late...a protagonist whose age and abilities are too incongruous for credibility! Cameryn is only 17 but her father (and all the others) allow her to be an assistant coroner; accessing materials, information and data that is just not possible. Cammie drove me nuts!
I love a great YA read and combine that with one of my favourite genres crime and I thought I had a winner...alas the only win was that it was a very short read!
The blurb sounded intriguing and it started out well but then I faced my ongoing conundrum with novels of late...a protagonist whose age and abilities are too incongruous for credibility! Cameryn is only 17 but her father (and all the others) allow her to be an assistant coroner; accessing materials, information and data that is just not possible. Cammie drove me nuts!
I love a great YA read and combine that with one of my favourite genres crime and I thought I had a winner...alas the only win was that it was a very short read!
December 15, 2015
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Review:
Suspense, my ass. This is more like a book where a teenager is a detective-slash-medical examiner wannabe. The execution of characters were lame and the mystery isn't exactly mysterious.
I love forensic science and I watch a lot of shows where Medical Examiners slice up dead bodies to determine the cause of death and all that shit. I also know that not because I watch CSI and read crime books, I'm already an expect when it comes to science stuff. Hell no. I'm not an expert in that thing but I'm expert is spotting lame books.
I don't have a problem with the plot. In fact, I love it. I'm excited to read this one because *gasp* a 17 years old girl is now an assistant to a Coroner!
Cameryn was said to be a smart girl who borderlines the genius level. That's true. She is well versed when it comes to the process of autopsy. The science stuff in this book is well appreciated by yours truly. In fact, I have a mini orgasm when during the slicing and dicing and all the gorey stuff was being done, the ME gave us a commentary on whatis and whatnots.
*Don't be alarmed.I'm not sick. Just weird.*
But the real reason why I gave this book a 2 star are the following:
Characters:
Cameryn is smart but she lacks common sense.
For all the life of me, I can't comprehend why a supposed to be smart girl would go into the hotel room of the murderer (that she suspected) to find some incriminating evidence to nail his ass without even thinking of having a back up!
What also bothers me is that, yes she's well versed in forensic science and all that geeky stuff but REALLY. I can't believe that she discover things that a seasoned ME and police officers can't. Cameryn, you're a 17 years old teenager who despite being smart is still a teenager. Get real.
Her friends (Adam and Lyric) are supposed to make the story more interesting but they're useless.
Her father lacks some character.
The police has no spunk.
The murderer is boring.
The mystery:
Women are being killed and the killer left a Saint Christopher medal in the crime scene. That was the MO.
Can you see the potential, BECAUSE I CAN. This is something that should have been explosive and thrilling.
I was like:
But nooo. The potential was there but the story was poorly done that it left a bitter taste in my mouth.
I was waiting for the author to give the mystery some twist and turns. What I got instead was a rushed simple ending when in fact the author made the crime more "difficult" than what it actually was.
Ugh. This is a let down. I'm not sure if I'll read the 2nd book or what because the first book scar me for life.
I'm on a crime books spree this week so if you guys know any good crime book where people randomly sprout medical words, you can recommend it to me. :)
September 11, 2009
Young Cameryn's father is the town's coroner. Since Cameryn dreams of becoming a forensic pathologist someday and her father is overworked, she begs her dad to allow her to become his assistant. When he finally gives him, Cameryn is all smiles--until the dead bodies start appearing and The Christopher Killer's victims become more personal than Cameryn ever thought possible. Suddenly a target, Cameryn must solve the serial murder's case before she becomes part of the file. There are few better mystery stories at the young adult level than this Christopher Killer series (see also The Angel of Death and Circle of Blood). These are serious pageturners: students are raving about how great these stories are and I've seen students reading through them in just a day or two.
June 17, 2007
17-year-old Cameryn Mahoney's dad is the town's forensic pathologist, and Cameryn wants nothing more than to follow in his footsteps. When she convinces him to make her his assistant, she has no idea that one of the first deaths she'll investigate is that of her friend Rachel. Rachel is the fourth victim in a string of killings known as Christopher Killings, girls who are strangled and then left with St. Christopher medals on their corpses.
Cameryn throws herself into the forensic work, trying to separate herself emotionally from the case to solve Rachel's murder. The involvement of a famous psychic who predicted Rachel's death, as well as clues that lead Cameryn to suspect the people around her only complicate the case.
This was another lender from work, and I was not really that impressed. Cameryn's personality seemed a little flakey to me - one moment she's the skeptic scientist, the next she's running to the psychic for answers. And the people around her felt extremely one-dimensional and flat to me. The plot twists, too, were predictable and unimpressive. It was an okay read, but I wouldn't bother recommending it to anybody.
Cameryn throws herself into the forensic work, trying to separate herself emotionally from the case to solve Rachel's murder. The involvement of a famous psychic who predicted Rachel's death, as well as clues that lead Cameryn to suspect the people around her only complicate the case.
This was another lender from work, and I was not really that impressed. Cameryn's personality seemed a little flakey to me - one moment she's the skeptic scientist, the next she's running to the psychic for answers. And the people around her felt extremely one-dimensional and flat to me. The plot twists, too, were predictable and unimpressive. It was an okay read, but I wouldn't bother recommending it to anybody.
August 6, 2014
I loved Nancy Drew, Scooby-Doo and other meddling kid mysteries growing up, but this was just too ridiculous. A high school student as an assistant to the medical examiner? I really did not like the main character, either. I felt she was a know-it-all teen, and thank you, I already have one of those.
July 13, 2019
I'm not really sure exactly how I came upon this book originally, outside of the fact I was looking for forensic mystery books. I'm hooked and Alane Ferguson has written an awesome book, even if it is YA, it's still good and I'll looking forward to the remainder of the series.
January 15, 2017
This was really great!
August 19, 2018
Thank you Sharon J for recommending this book series to me. This is the first book of the series, and I loved it. I love forensic mysteries because of CSI, Criminal Minds, and Bones. This was an amazing read. Cameryn Mahoney is a 17 year old girl who wants to be a forensic pathologist. I really loved her character. The fact that she went to investigate the murder was really interesting to read. She is a really strong and smart character. I would want to be best friends with her. This book was gruesome, but after watching Bones and CSI, I really was fascinated with the details of the decomposing bodies and the autopsies. The ending was really good. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series. Overall, an incredible read.
January 7, 2008
Are you a fan of CSI or Bones? If so, this series is for you. Alane Ferguson has written a good forensic mystery. Cameryn Mahoney is a seventeen-year-old with dreams to become a forensic pathologist. She is in a great position to do so with her father being the county coroner. The budget problems have prevented the county from hiring an assistant for him and the work load has been too much. So, he asks Cameryn to be his assistant and she accepts, even though her Mammaw (Irish way of referring to grandmother) doesn't want her to. Mammaw thinks that her focus on death and forensics is a danger to her soul and will lead her down a dark path in life. Cameryn simply wants to use science to allow the dead to tell the tale of their death.
Silverton, Colorado is a silent, sleepy town where nothing much happens. There hasn't been a case of murder in years, but all that changes when a serial killer decides to make a resident of Silverton his next victim. Rachel is a friend of Cameryn's, they even worked together at a local diner. Losing a friend is hard enough, but for Cameryn it is even harder. She not only has to feel the loss, but has to suffer through the details of processing her body as a crime scene and participate in the autopsy.
Cameryn decides to investigate the murder with the help of a few friends, but mostly on her own. She is a strong and clever character and a wonderful role model for girls. Alane Ferguson sets up a possible love interest for Cameryn with the new sheriff's deputy as well as a long running story line that can continue throughout the entire series. The sequel is titled The Angel of Death. This book is appropriate for upper middle school grades and above. The only determining factor will be how well you can stomach the details of the stages of a decomposing body and of course the procedures of an autopsy.
Silverton, Colorado is a silent, sleepy town where nothing much happens. There hasn't been a case of murder in years, but all that changes when a serial killer decides to make a resident of Silverton his next victim. Rachel is a friend of Cameryn's, they even worked together at a local diner. Losing a friend is hard enough, but for Cameryn it is even harder. She not only has to feel the loss, but has to suffer through the details of processing her body as a crime scene and participate in the autopsy.
Cameryn decides to investigate the murder with the help of a few friends, but mostly on her own. She is a strong and clever character and a wonderful role model for girls. Alane Ferguson sets up a possible love interest for Cameryn with the new sheriff's deputy as well as a long running story line that can continue throughout the entire series. The sequel is titled The Angel of Death. This book is appropriate for upper middle school grades and above. The only determining factor will be how well you can stomach the details of the stages of a decomposing body and of course the procedures of an autopsy.
June 7, 2012
17 year old Cameryn Mahoney wants to be a forensic pathologist. Living in a teeny town in the mountains of Colorado, she doesn't get to see much in the way murders and forensics, even with her dad being the county coroner. So Cameryn learns what she can by studying her books. Until a new deputy comes to town, and the Christopher Killer drops a body right at the town's doorstep.
This forensic mystery is rock-solid. Solid characters, solid plot, solid writing, and solid details regarding the science of forensics.
Each character is distinctively drawn. You get cozy with the ones you need to, you like the ones you're supposed to, you get annoyed with the ones who are annoying, and you doubt the ones you're supposed to doubt. Nothing lacks in this author's characterizations.
The descriptions are lovely without being over the top, and you can easily imagine the picturesque scenery of the Colorado mountains. The descriptions of the dead and the autopsy are realistic, but artfully done so as not to be gory.
While you know the killer really can't be just *anyone*, there are enough red herrings to keep you guessing until the end who the Christopher Killer is.
The only niggly thing for me was the amount of time spent going over every detail in the forensic's lab. For me, I'm kind of an action girl, and I'd much rather have shortened that (it went on for *quite* a long time) and get right back to the mystery at hand. But boy oh boy, this author makes up for it in the end. The climatic scene was fraught with tension and suspense. This author *knows* how to write tension. I had to force myself to slow my reading down, wanting to rush through to the end to see how it all panned out. The ending of this book could easily be used as a teaching tool for writers. The "how to end a book with tension" class.
Excellent read for mystery-lovers.
This forensic mystery is rock-solid. Solid characters, solid plot, solid writing, and solid details regarding the science of forensics.
Each character is distinctively drawn. You get cozy with the ones you need to, you like the ones you're supposed to, you get annoyed with the ones who are annoying, and you doubt the ones you're supposed to doubt. Nothing lacks in this author's characterizations.
The descriptions are lovely without being over the top, and you can easily imagine the picturesque scenery of the Colorado mountains. The descriptions of the dead and the autopsy are realistic, but artfully done so as not to be gory.
While you know the killer really can't be just *anyone*, there are enough red herrings to keep you guessing until the end who the Christopher Killer is.
The only niggly thing for me was the amount of time spent going over every detail in the forensic's lab. For me, I'm kind of an action girl, and I'd much rather have shortened that (it went on for *quite* a long time) and get right back to the mystery at hand. But boy oh boy, this author makes up for it in the end. The climatic scene was fraught with tension and suspense. This author *knows* how to write tension. I had to force myself to slow my reading down, wanting to rush through to the end to see how it all panned out. The ending of this book could easily be used as a teaching tool for writers. The "how to end a book with tension" class.
Excellent read for mystery-lovers.
November 21, 2008
The Christopher Killer
By Alane Ferguson
Review by Erik Pawlowski
Alane Ferguson, author of The Christopher Killer, writes with unbelievable description. She could turn a one-word subject into a whole book, and this is part of the reason why this book is so good.
* * *
The Christopher Killer’s main character is Cameron Mahoney, who dreams of following in her father, Pat Mahoney’s footsteps as a County Coroner. The only obstacle in her way is her grandma, who she refers to as mammaw. That doesn’t stop Cameron though, because when her dad lets her assist him, she is absolutely thrilled! Since the County Coroner usually deals with murders, this could’ve been a risky job for her to be in, but there hasn’t been a murder for decades, so her father has no worries. Unfortunately, there was a murder in this sleepy Rocky Mountain town in Colorado. And it's not just the murder of a stranger, but Cameron's friend, Rachel Geller. Added to that is the fact that it's not a random murder, but seems to be part of a serial killer's spree. The murderer always leaves a St. Christopher medal on the victim's body, thus earning him the moniker The Christopher Killer. As Cameron sets out to assist her father, she suddenly finds herself drawn into a murder investigation. As the police in this small town search for clues as to who may have murdered the lovely Rachel, Cameron is determined to start putting her knowledge of forensics to good use.
* * *
This book had me guessing page by page. Your thoughts and predictions will all of a sudden turn a 360 when Cameron finds a new clue. To see what ends up happening with Cameron and the murdered Rachael, read The Christopher Killer.
By Alane Ferguson
Review by Erik Pawlowski
Alane Ferguson, author of The Christopher Killer, writes with unbelievable description. She could turn a one-word subject into a whole book, and this is part of the reason why this book is so good.
* * *
The Christopher Killer’s main character is Cameron Mahoney, who dreams of following in her father, Pat Mahoney’s footsteps as a County Coroner. The only obstacle in her way is her grandma, who she refers to as mammaw. That doesn’t stop Cameron though, because when her dad lets her assist him, she is absolutely thrilled! Since the County Coroner usually deals with murders, this could’ve been a risky job for her to be in, but there hasn’t been a murder for decades, so her father has no worries. Unfortunately, there was a murder in this sleepy Rocky Mountain town in Colorado. And it's not just the murder of a stranger, but Cameron's friend, Rachel Geller. Added to that is the fact that it's not a random murder, but seems to be part of a serial killer's spree. The murderer always leaves a St. Christopher medal on the victim's body, thus earning him the moniker The Christopher Killer. As Cameron sets out to assist her father, she suddenly finds herself drawn into a murder investigation. As the police in this small town search for clues as to who may have murdered the lovely Rachel, Cameron is determined to start putting her knowledge of forensics to good use.
* * *
This book had me guessing page by page. Your thoughts and predictions will all of a sudden turn a 360 when Cameron finds a new clue. To see what ends up happening with Cameron and the murdered Rachael, read The Christopher Killer.
November 21, 2008
The Christopher Killer is about 17 year old Cameryn Mahoney, who has the annoying habit of challenging her elders. She also has the unshakable desire to be a forensic pathologist and a very strong stomach. This comes in handy during the autopsy of a friend,the latest victim of a serial killer whose signature is a St.Christopher's medal left with each body. The vivid autopsy scenes are surprising given the fairly routine story line and agreeable though certainly not complex,characters.It's Cammie's energy and chutzpa that really propel the story,and readers will sympathize with her as she struggles to decide whether ti keep faith in science or be sucked in by a charismatic psychic.Cammie is really interested in figuring out the stories that the dead have to tell,but she has to have a lot of personal strength,knowledge, and patience, to figure out those storiesd. This book really focuses on the aspects of crime solving.when i was reading this book it made me think about CSI and all the crime scenes they have to figure out.I also thought about all the people in the world that get murdered every second of the day.A text-to-self connection would be when my great grandpa died and they did an autopsy on him and all the great description about Rachel's autopsy reminded me of it. My favorite part in this book is when Cammie sneaks into Dr. Jewel's hotel and gets caught. Great book for anyone if youcan handle squirmish descriptions.
March 28, 2012
In the small town of Silverton, Colorado, lives a teenage girl names Cameryn Mahoney. She's kind of an odd duck, living with her coroner father and her Irish Catholic Meemaw (Grandma). Cameryn is fascinated with forensic science, and somehow convinces her father that she would be perfect as his assistant. When Cameryn visits her first crime scene with her father, she becomes ill. Since that went so well, her father takes her to observe an autopsy for a murder victim recently found in the woods. This victim turns out to be Cam's friend Rachel, murdered by the mysterious Christopher Killer, who leaves a St. Christopher's medal on all his victims. Can Cameryn and her brilliant instincts discover who the Christopher Killer is before she too, becomes a victim?
Of course she can! Otherwise how would there be sequels? I had to make myself finish this book. Cameryn is not an impressive heroine. She supposedly has read tons of forensic texts, has seen graphic pictures of crime scenes, studies forensic science constantly, but becomes convinced of the supernatural by a shady tv psychic. She also comes off as a snob with her fellow high school students, especially a goth-type loner her best friend likes. And then, wammo! Cameryn figures it all out! In less than 3 days she has the mystery solved, all neat and tidy. She was thoroughly dislikable and I doubt I will be reading any more of this author's work. - Melinda Dye, review for Mystery
Of course she can! Otherwise how would there be sequels? I had to make myself finish this book. Cameryn is not an impressive heroine. She supposedly has read tons of forensic texts, has seen graphic pictures of crime scenes, studies forensic science constantly, but becomes convinced of the supernatural by a shady tv psychic. She also comes off as a snob with her fellow high school students, especially a goth-type loner her best friend likes. And then, wammo! Cameryn figures it all out! In less than 3 days she has the mystery solved, all neat and tidy. She was thoroughly dislikable and I doubt I will be reading any more of this author's work. - Melinda Dye, review for Mystery
April 12, 2017
average murder mystery but the forensic bits were good
February 8, 2020
I had to read this for a class unfortunately, and it was honestly soooo not my type of book. Very juvenile. Very annoying. It was short though, and very quick to read.
July 14, 2023
lame. i appreciate that the author put so much research into the forensics. the autopsy scene was genuinely good. but also the story was so fucking lame.
December 11, 2020
The Christopher Killer is a mystery thriller with an underlying story of resilience. Seventeen-year-old Cameryn Mahoney has always dreamed of becoming a forensic pathologist. Her father, the town’s coroner, decided to hire her as his assistant to help her get more experience in the field. Little does she know, she would soon be wrapped up in a homicide case involving her close friend Rachel Geller. Believing in only science and the facts, Cameryn decides to investigate the case to try and catch the murderer known as the “Christopher Killer.”
The author, Alane Ferguson, developed strong characters and clearly defined each of their roles throughout the book. Ferguson’s creation of the supporting characters strongly impacted the story’s outcome. For example, Dr. Moore, a medical examiner, provided a great deal of support to the investigation. Without his character in the book, Cameryn may not have known anyone else to go to for specific information regarding the case. In addition, Ferguson’s use of mocking diction demonstrates Dr. Moore’s narcissistic tendencies toward Cameryn. Another supporting character, Ben Short, was characterized by Alane Ferguson to display parody with the use of humorous comments such as “We got to take this body to the chop shop,” referring to the autopsy suite.
Cameryn, the main character, displayed a lot of characteristics portrayed by the author. Juxtaposition was exhibited through Cameryn’s genius mentality. For example, her knowledge of the characteristics and differences between an organized and disorganized killer was astonishing for her age. Knowing the differences made them realize they now have a lead in the case. Cameryn’s familiarity with medical jargon such as the properties and components of DMSO, or Dimethyl sulfoxide, also helped develop leads in the investigation.
Alane Ferguson used a great sense of statistics in regards to the outcome of the story. In a conversation between Cameryn and the Christopher Killer, the killer used numbers to compare the relevance of the victims. The Christopher Killer stated, “There are two hundred and sixty million people in this country. Four deaths are statistically irrelevant.”
This was a great and intriguing book overall. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys mystery thrillers.
The author, Alane Ferguson, developed strong characters and clearly defined each of their roles throughout the book. Ferguson’s creation of the supporting characters strongly impacted the story’s outcome. For example, Dr. Moore, a medical examiner, provided a great deal of support to the investigation. Without his character in the book, Cameryn may not have known anyone else to go to for specific information regarding the case. In addition, Ferguson’s use of mocking diction demonstrates Dr. Moore’s narcissistic tendencies toward Cameryn. Another supporting character, Ben Short, was characterized by Alane Ferguson to display parody with the use of humorous comments such as “We got to take this body to the chop shop,” referring to the autopsy suite.
Cameryn, the main character, displayed a lot of characteristics portrayed by the author. Juxtaposition was exhibited through Cameryn’s genius mentality. For example, her knowledge of the characteristics and differences between an organized and disorganized killer was astonishing for her age. Knowing the differences made them realize they now have a lead in the case. Cameryn’s familiarity with medical jargon such as the properties and components of DMSO, or Dimethyl sulfoxide, also helped develop leads in the investigation.
Alane Ferguson used a great sense of statistics in regards to the outcome of the story. In a conversation between Cameryn and the Christopher Killer, the killer used numbers to compare the relevance of the victims. The Christopher Killer stated, “There are two hundred and sixty million people in this country. Four deaths are statistically irrelevant.”
This was a great and intriguing book overall. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys mystery thrillers.
October 17, 2017
I liked this novel due to its detailed characters and mysterious story. The coolest part of this whole novel would have to be how the author took facts and information from forensic scientists and real coroners. All this extra work made this novel a true murder mystery and I would recommend it to anyone.
July 4, 2015
It so pleasing to know that there is another human being out there just like me! Let's jump in:
I really connected to this book, I loved Cameryn, I was able to relate and connect to her on a whole other level. Connecting to characters in other books was never much of an issue, but when I was reading about Cameryn I felt like I was looking in a mirror. The beginning of the book was a little rocky, in my opinion, the dialogue between Cameryn and her father almost seemed forced and there were some awkward moments. Though once the plot really started progressing, you could tell the author had gotten into a groove.
The book is really interesting murder mystery given new life, the perspective of a coroner versus the detective, police officer, etc. which was what really kept me interested in this book. It was really cool learning about the different medical terms and even though I'm not an expert on the matter, but you could really tell that Mrs. Ferguson knew her stuff. Another thing I felt was a little disappointing was that I thought it would be more gory and graphic (as a lover of both these things). While it was both of those (especially in that scene where she was describing the dead body) I just thought that it would be to the point where you need a vomit bag on stand-by. Granted if she had done that I would likely be the only person who ever read it. I also thought it be a little more twisted and darker, though I think that would have taken away the likeability of the characters. Speaking of the scene with the dead body, that scene was really long and while it was interesting, as an action girl, I kind of needed more to happen.
One final criticism would be that the other characters, besides Cameryn, seemed a little flat and one-dimensional though this might be because it is the first book in the series. Or it could be on purpose because it does place in a backwoods town, as someone from a backwoods town sometimes the people there can seem really one dimensional.
The ending was really fantastic and I will be really excited to learn about in the next few books and really shed some light on Cameryn's parents (all I'm gonna say). It really left me with an OHMIGOD, shocker moment which is always super satisfying. One other thing: I ship Justin and Cameryn (all I'm gonna say)
Besides my few criticisms, I really liked the book, I felt like it’s not something that you see often and it kept me on my toes the whole time, I never wanted to put it down.
I really connected to this book, I loved Cameryn, I was able to relate and connect to her on a whole other level. Connecting to characters in other books was never much of an issue, but when I was reading about Cameryn I felt like I was looking in a mirror. The beginning of the book was a little rocky, in my opinion, the dialogue between Cameryn and her father almost seemed forced and there were some awkward moments. Though once the plot really started progressing, you could tell the author had gotten into a groove.
The book is really interesting murder mystery given new life, the perspective of a coroner versus the detective, police officer, etc. which was what really kept me interested in this book. It was really cool learning about the different medical terms and even though I'm not an expert on the matter, but you could really tell that Mrs. Ferguson knew her stuff. Another thing I felt was a little disappointing was that I thought it would be more gory and graphic (as a lover of both these things). While it was both of those (especially in that scene where she was describing the dead body) I just thought that it would be to the point where you need a vomit bag on stand-by. Granted if she had done that I would likely be the only person who ever read it. I also thought it be a little more twisted and darker, though I think that would have taken away the likeability of the characters. Speaking of the scene with the dead body, that scene was really long and while it was interesting, as an action girl, I kind of needed more to happen.
One final criticism would be that the other characters, besides Cameryn, seemed a little flat and one-dimensional though this might be because it is the first book in the series. Or it could be on purpose because it does place in a backwoods town, as someone from a backwoods town sometimes the people there can seem really one dimensional.
The ending was really fantastic and I will be really excited to learn about in the next few books and really shed some light on Cameryn's parents (all I'm gonna say). It really left me with an OHMIGOD, shocker moment which is always super satisfying. One other thing: I ship Justin and Cameryn (all I'm gonna say)
Besides my few criticisms, I really liked the book, I felt like it’s not something that you see often and it kept me on my toes the whole time, I never wanted to put it down.
November 10, 2012
Reviewed by Me for TeensReadToo.com
In the quiet, small town of Silverton, Colorado, eighteen-year-old Cameryn Mahoney is planning to follow in her father's footsteps and pursue a career in forensic pathology. Her dad, the unassuming yet efficient Pat Mahoney, is the local county coroner, and Cameryn is determined to follow his lead--much to the chagrin and near-disgust of her Mammaw. Cameryn's grandmother is convinced that her "love" of death and dying, and her insistence on not becoming a "real" doctor, along with her inability to cook, will lead her down the wrong path.
But Cameryn is determined, and she's also thrilled when she finally talks her dad into letting her assist him. After all, sure, the county coroner does deal with death occasionally, but they haven't had an actual murder in decades, so her father figures there can't be any harm in letting his daughter tag along to scenes or assist with autopsies. Unfortunately, he was wrong.
There has been a murder in this sleepy Rocky Mountain town. And it's not just the murder of a stranger, but Cameryn's friend, Rachel Geller. Added to that is the fact that it's not a random murder, but seems to be part of a serial killer's spree. The murderer always leaves a St. Christopher medal on the victim's body, thus earning him the moniker The Christopher Killer. As Cameryn sets out to assist her father, she suddenly finds herself drawn into a murder investigation. As the police in this small town search for clues as to who may have murdered the lovely Rachel, Cameryn is determined to start putting her knowledge of forensics to good use.
This is a great book, similar to the style and stories of the television show CSI. If you're interested in forensics or just like watching the process on television, you're going to thoroughly enjoy the mystery that is THE CHRISTOPHER KILLER. Not to mention the fact that this is just the beginning of a new series, so there will be more books starring Cameryn down the road! The other great thing about the book, besides its excellent characters, dialogue, and storyline, is the fact that even though it's a mystery that deals with murder, it's a good fit even for middle-school readers. You won't go wrong picking up a copy of this first book in the FORENSIC MYSTERY series!
In the quiet, small town of Silverton, Colorado, eighteen-year-old Cameryn Mahoney is planning to follow in her father's footsteps and pursue a career in forensic pathology. Her dad, the unassuming yet efficient Pat Mahoney, is the local county coroner, and Cameryn is determined to follow his lead--much to the chagrin and near-disgust of her Mammaw. Cameryn's grandmother is convinced that her "love" of death and dying, and her insistence on not becoming a "real" doctor, along with her inability to cook, will lead her down the wrong path.
But Cameryn is determined, and she's also thrilled when she finally talks her dad into letting her assist him. After all, sure, the county coroner does deal with death occasionally, but they haven't had an actual murder in decades, so her father figures there can't be any harm in letting his daughter tag along to scenes or assist with autopsies. Unfortunately, he was wrong.
There has been a murder in this sleepy Rocky Mountain town. And it's not just the murder of a stranger, but Cameryn's friend, Rachel Geller. Added to that is the fact that it's not a random murder, but seems to be part of a serial killer's spree. The murderer always leaves a St. Christopher medal on the victim's body, thus earning him the moniker The Christopher Killer. As Cameryn sets out to assist her father, she suddenly finds herself drawn into a murder investigation. As the police in this small town search for clues as to who may have murdered the lovely Rachel, Cameryn is determined to start putting her knowledge of forensics to good use.
This is a great book, similar to the style and stories of the television show CSI. If you're interested in forensics or just like watching the process on television, you're going to thoroughly enjoy the mystery that is THE CHRISTOPHER KILLER. Not to mention the fact that this is just the beginning of a new series, so there will be more books starring Cameryn down the road! The other great thing about the book, besides its excellent characters, dialogue, and storyline, is the fact that even though it's a mystery that deals with murder, it's a good fit even for middle-school readers. You won't go wrong picking up a copy of this first book in the FORENSIC MYSTERY series!
February 23, 2017
This was an okay book. I thought that is was kind of slow in spots throughout the book. The author Alane Ferguson wrote a lot of very detailed things in the story. If you like books that bring a challenge to follow with them then this is a book for you. I couldn't quite finish it because I couldn't keep up with what was going on.
March 24, 2016
. March 24,2016
Giselle Mendoza
The Christopher killer is a great book. If you like forensic mystery this would be a good book to read. Alane Ferguson researched and talked to people that worked as pathologist or knew about forensics.
I loved the characters. I liked how the author made the main character Struggle with the people that didn't believe she would be able to handle the job she wanted. They treated her like a kid but the author made her overcome that and to show that she is capable of what she wants to do. The setting of the place helped the book to be more interesting because it's a small town with a few people you're wondering who killed the person . You can't trust anyone because they can end up being the killer . The setting made me get more suspicious because anyone could be it .
In the book my favorite part was when cameryn became an assistant for her dad and the other workers didn't believe she could do it they wanted her to leave but the dad believed she could do the work. He told them she was going to stay because she works for him . I liked this part because it shows the relationship they have between each other . He believes in her and he expressed it .
The author did a wonderful job of the expressing the characters feelings and describing everything they saw that was important.The author also did a good job of helping us picture the scary position cameryn was in when she was with the killer.
The Christopher Killer is a great book to read it has great description and if you like murder books this would be a good book for you.
Giselle Mendoza
The Christopher killer is a great book. If you like forensic mystery this would be a good book to read. Alane Ferguson researched and talked to people that worked as pathologist or knew about forensics.
I loved the characters. I liked how the author made the main character Struggle with the people that didn't believe she would be able to handle the job she wanted. They treated her like a kid but the author made her overcome that and to show that she is capable of what she wants to do. The setting of the place helped the book to be more interesting because it's a small town with a few people you're wondering who killed the person . You can't trust anyone because they can end up being the killer . The setting made me get more suspicious because anyone could be it .
In the book my favorite part was when cameryn became an assistant for her dad and the other workers didn't believe she could do it they wanted her to leave but the dad believed she could do the work. He told them she was going to stay because she works for him . I liked this part because it shows the relationship they have between each other . He believes in her and he expressed it .
The author did a wonderful job of the expressing the characters feelings and describing everything they saw that was important.The author also did a good job of helping us picture the scary position cameryn was in when she was with the killer.
The Christopher Killer is a great book to read it has great description and if you like murder books this would be a good book for you.
April 24, 2012
WOW. How to start on this book? I actually tried to read this book in high school, but some of my classmates had a car accident and unfortunately died, and I did not feel like reading a book about dead people so I stopped. But I did started it, I thought I would be able to deal with it, but I was SO wrong. It was too hard. So I decided to try it out again, ironically a few weeks ago, another classmate of the class before mine suffered an accident and died too. Anyways, when I read this book, I did not know if I was disgusted, repulsed, amazed or scared. I have never been a fan of autopsies and the morgue and all that, I hated it, it gave me nightmares. But not that long ago, that changed. I started watching the show "BONES" and really got into forensic anthropology, so much that I bought 3 textbooks and decided I was going to be one too. And even though I don't have that ambition anymore I am still fond of the job. Maybe that is why the second time I tried to read it, I actually read it. And instead of throwing up I smiled at the procedures, for I knew them by heart. I got into the book so much, it was like I was trying to find the killer. This is a GREAT read and I LOVED everything about it, I can't wait for the next one :D
May 22, 2012
This book was recommend by my teacher. This is a kind of book I never though of reading. Once I started reading it, I feel in love with it. This book is about a girl named Cameryn who loves forensics science. Since she's read so many books about it, she decides to work as an assistant for father who is the coroner. She loves doing what does until, it gets personal. After this insistent she was truly determined to find out what happened. To get the truth out, she has to go threw a lot of people and evidence in the small town of Sliverston. As the main character of the story, Cameryn has developed as a person. In the beginning of story she always talked about how she all about the facts, but toward the middle and end when they bring up her mother, she begins to become more emotional and started to open up. Especially since all this happening is apart of her life/ people she's close with. I recommend this book to anyone, because I never expected myself to like it but I loved it! I'm hoping to read the next one. I'am encouraging for many others to read this book too and enjoy it like I did!
November 1, 2008
I would describe the Forensic Mystery series as Nancy Drew meets CSI. Cameryn Mahoney, the protagonist, is the daughter of the Colorado County coroner, and she is obsessed with forensics.
Convincing her father to hire her as his assistant, Cammie joins her father to investigate the first murder in her town in several years. When the killer gets too close, Cammie fights to solve the crime before she becomes one of his victims.
The descriptions of the crime scene, the victim, and the details of an autopsy add gritty details to the story, but overall, this book has the same tone as the Nancy Drew books-- the hero is a likeable good girl with brains, the other townspeople are stereotypes (the grizzled sheriff with the handsome deputy, the wise-cracking waitress, etc.), and the murderer is caught before the final pages.
I can see many middle school girls falling in love with Cammie and this series. It is just edgy enough to hold their attention, and it is nice step forward for girls who spent their younger years reading about Nancy, Sammie Keyes, Petra, and other girl sleuths.
Convincing her father to hire her as his assistant, Cammie joins her father to investigate the first murder in her town in several years. When the killer gets too close, Cammie fights to solve the crime before she becomes one of his victims.
The descriptions of the crime scene, the victim, and the details of an autopsy add gritty details to the story, but overall, this book has the same tone as the Nancy Drew books-- the hero is a likeable good girl with brains, the other townspeople are stereotypes (the grizzled sheriff with the handsome deputy, the wise-cracking waitress, etc.), and the murderer is caught before the final pages.
I can see many middle school girls falling in love with Cammie and this series. It is just edgy enough to hold their attention, and it is nice step forward for girls who spent their younger years reading about Nancy, Sammie Keyes, Petra, and other girl sleuths.
July 16, 2008
This is a extremely mature young adult novel. Cameryn Mahoney is our protaganist, a senior in high school, almost 18. She's always wanted to be a forensic pathologist. Her father is the local coroner in Silverton, CO. When he complains that he can't get the budget for an assistant, he takes Cameryn's suggestion & hires her (out of his pocket). Naturally, this is a boon for her when one of Cameryn's friends becomes the fourth victim of the Christopher Killer, who has been killing young women across the United States for over a year, always leaving a St. Christopher medal on the victim. Cameryn has trained herself to see what others don't, but her age is a detriment in the course of her investigation since officials have a hard time taking her seriously.
This is a very accurate and quite descriptive mystery. I thought it was an excellent book and hope the author can keep up the good work.
This is a very accurate and quite descriptive mystery. I thought it was an excellent book and hope the author can keep up the good work.
November 21, 2008
This book is about a young highschool student, Cameryn Mahony, who becomes a ferensics patholigist. Her father highers her as his assistant. She is a very intelligent 17-year-old who just happens to be very close to her first case. One of her friends, Racheal, was killed by a very cunning serial killer. Cameryn is torn between 2 worlds- the world of science and the world of the dead. When she meets Dr. Jewel, she is a certain sceptic but Dr. Jewel has the power to tweak Cameryn's mind to make her doubt not only her knowledge... but her beliefs. This book reminds me of cold case because of the twists and turns of the many options of killers. As soon as you think you know the story, the story flips and leaves you hanging off a cliff. On a rate of 1-5 I rated it as 5 stars, because this book had me dig deep into my brain, pulling out things I knew, and the facts from the book. I was on the edge of my seat, hungry for more.
-ashlyn saeger
-ashlyn saeger
January 12, 2010
Camryn convinces her father ( The town coroner) to take her on as an assistant, since she dreams of a career in forensics. When all signs point to a notorious serial killer hitting their sleepy town, she's determined to decode the story the dead are telling so they can have justice. Our plucky teen doesn't quite hit the ground running though, all her reading hasn't quite prepared her for all the sites, smells, inner turmoil, and characters she'll have to contend with.
I enjoyed this novel, you gotta love that a heroines super power is being exceptionally observant. That said, this is not a fly though the pages thrill ride sorta book. Which may or may not be a deal breaker for you.
And Camryn's detective style is more Nancy Drew than Veronica Mars. She's not a edgy in a personality sense. Just a good kid who worships at the alter of science and wants answers.
I enjoyed this novel, you gotta love that a heroines super power is being exceptionally observant. That said, this is not a fly though the pages thrill ride sorta book. Which may or may not be a deal breaker for you.
And Camryn's detective style is more Nancy Drew than Veronica Mars. She's not a edgy in a personality sense. Just a good kid who worships at the alter of science and wants answers.
May 7, 2011
A very quick read with a good twist (actually now that I think about it, there are two twists ... the murderer and what Dr. Jewel about the girl spirit next to Cameryn). The plot device of false suspects and the villian's monologue was a bit overdone, but the mystery was good enough to compensate (I guess I was comparing a bit too much to Agatha Christie which no one wins that comparison).
Your basic procedural murder mystery ... a bit gruesome at times (parts of the autopsy where described in detail) but not really gory. The main mystery was solved, but the overarching mystery surrounding why Cameryn's mother left is still unresolved resulting in a bit of a cliff-hanger (enough for those who want to read the rest of the series, but closed enough for those who don't).
If the heroine hadn't done the stupid thing of getting caught I probably would have given another star.
Your basic procedural murder mystery ... a bit gruesome at times (parts of the autopsy where described in detail) but not really gory. The main mystery was solved, but the overarching mystery surrounding why Cameryn's mother left is still unresolved resulting in a bit of a cliff-hanger (enough for those who want to read the rest of the series, but closed enough for those who don't).
If the heroine hadn't done the stupid thing of getting caught I probably would have given another star.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 14, 2009
This book is about a small town where nothing happensin silverton, colorado. until now. Cameryn wants to be a csi like her dad but she never thought she would be sloving the murder of someon she knows. The christopher killer kidnaps young women and kills all across the country and Rachel just happened to be his next vitum. Cameryn will stops at nothing to find out who this guy is. She finds herself in the worst possible place. face to face with the killer. I could not put it down. It keeps you quessing on evry twist an dturn. i would say this is a book for people my age. even if you dont like sad stories you will love this book.
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