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Rockwell and Decker #2
Her Perfect Bones
The girl’s body is curled up like a shell and almost completely buried in sand. Only her fingertips can be seen, reaching helplessly up towards an escape she will never find…
Seventeen-year-old Shelby Mayfield sits alone on a bus to Fog Harbor, California. Aside from a few items of clothing, all she has with her is twenty-two dollars, the ragdoll she’s kept since kindergarten, and the devastating secret she’s been hiding.
How long will it be before her family realizes she’s gone?
Can anyone see the fresh bruise on her cheek beneath the makeup?
Perhaps she was a fool to believe the person she is meeting in this remote little town could help her…
When a girl’s body is found hidden in a barrel in a woodland cabin, the local police are at a loss. The film from an old camera found looped around her neck is their only lead, but Criminal Psychologist Olivia Rockwell’s blood turns to ice when she recognizes the ragdoll in one of the girl’s last photographs. She used to own one just like it, and it can only mean one thing: if she doesn’t dig deep into the mind of a deadly killer from her past—her own father—more innocent lives will be in danger…
A totally gripping and utterly addictive crime thriller for readers who love Lisa Regan, Kendra Elliot and Melinda Leigh. But be warned: you’ll be sleeping with the lights on after you’ve raced through the pages in one sitting!
Seventeen-year-old Shelby Mayfield sits alone on a bus to Fog Harbor, California. Aside from a few items of clothing, all she has with her is twenty-two dollars, the ragdoll she’s kept since kindergarten, and the devastating secret she’s been hiding.
How long will it be before her family realizes she’s gone?
Can anyone see the fresh bruise on her cheek beneath the makeup?
Perhaps she was a fool to believe the person she is meeting in this remote little town could help her…
When a girl’s body is found hidden in a barrel in a woodland cabin, the local police are at a loss. The film from an old camera found looped around her neck is their only lead, but Criminal Psychologist Olivia Rockwell’s blood turns to ice when she recognizes the ragdoll in one of the girl’s last photographs. She used to own one just like it, and it can only mean one thing: if she doesn’t dig deep into the mind of a deadly killer from her past—her own father—more innocent lives will be in danger…
A totally gripping and utterly addictive crime thriller for readers who love Lisa Regan, Kendra Elliot and Melinda Leigh. But be warned: you’ll be sleeping with the lights on after you’ve raced through the pages in one sitting!
368 pages, Paperback
First published February 11, 2021
368 people are currently reading
2754 people want to read
About the author
Ellery A. Kane
17 books441 followersForensic psychologist by day, novelist by night, Ellery Kane has been writing--professionally and creatively--for as long as she can remember. Just like many of her main characters, Ellery loves to ask why, which is the reason she became a psychologist in the first place. Real life really is stranger than fiction, and Ellery's writing is often inspired by her day job. Evaluating violent criminals and treating trauma victims, she has gained a unique perspective on the past and its indelible influence on the individual. And she's heard her fair share of real life thrillers.
Ellery lives in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, a picturesque setting that provides the backdrop for many of her novels. If you don't find Ellery interviewing murderers behind prison walls or pecking away at her latest novel, she is probably at the gym landing a solid jab-cross to a punching bag; riding bicycles with her special someone; or enjoying a movie the old-fashioned way--at the theater with popcorn and Milk Duds.
Ellery was previously selected as one of ten semifinalists in the MasterClass James Patterson Co-Author Competition and is the author of the Doctors of Darkness, Rockwell and Decker, and Legacy Series, with two standalone thrillers from Bookouture coming in 2022.
If you'd like to receive a notification when new books are released, please sign up for Ellery's newsletter at ellerykane.com. Ellery also signs e-books on authorgraph.com.
Ellery lives in the San Francisco Bay Area of California, a picturesque setting that provides the backdrop for many of her novels. If you don't find Ellery interviewing murderers behind prison walls or pecking away at her latest novel, she is probably at the gym landing a solid jab-cross to a punching bag; riding bicycles with her special someone; or enjoying a movie the old-fashioned way--at the theater with popcorn and Milk Duds.
Ellery was previously selected as one of ten semifinalists in the MasterClass James Patterson Co-Author Competition and is the author of the Doctors of Darkness, Rockwell and Decker, and Legacy Series, with two standalone thrillers from Bookouture coming in 2022.
If you'd like to receive a notification when new books are released, please sign up for Ellery's newsletter at ellerykane.com. Ellery also signs e-books on authorgraph.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
February 9, 2021
When the body of a young woman is found stuffed in a barrel in a cabin in Fog Harbour, the local police find themselves with a thirty five year old cold case. The body turns out to be that of Shelby Mayfield who ran away from home in 1985. Detective Will Decker (Deck) and his partner Jimmy Benson (aka JB) are assigned the case and their investigation of how she came to be held captive in a cabin in Fog Harbour and who murdered her and stuffed in a barrel is the focus of the novel. Olivia Rockwell, the prison criminal psychologist, who worked with Deck on a previous case also becomes involved in the investigation when Deck asks to pick her brain on what she thinks happened. A photo of a rag doll Shelby had with her sends shivers down her spine as she recalls where she has seen such a doll before.
There are a lot of side stories in this second book in the series, some continuing on from the first book and not yet resolved, so paving the way for a future episode. Olivia's father in jail for killing a prostitute, although he has always claimed to be innocent. However, as a member of a notorious gang, the Oaktown Boys, he is not generally believed, especially when her body was found in his home. Deck's brother Ben, also a cop, is in jail for an unlawful shooting that Deck witnessed. He also has been threatened by the Oaktown Boys and Deck is worried enough to have him moved to Fog Harbour prison. I was expecting this book to pick up where the last one finished up with the escape of serial killer Drake Devere from Fog Harbour prison, where he was one of Olivia's most challenging patients. However, this is clearly on hold for another book.
I find I'm warming more to the characters in this second book than in the first. They initially appeared somewhat stereotyped and overburdened with their tortured pasts and trust issues. However, they are starting to round out more into warmer individuals focusing more on the present and less on the past, although that is never far away. Deck and Olivia are still behaving like teenagers, failing to admit that they are attracted to each other, but there is less sniping at each other than before and hopefully their relationship can move on in the next book. JB is a welcome member of the team with his easy going nature and his banter with Deck. I'm curious to see where this series is going to go next with not only the development of the characters but also the various unresolved threads introduced so far.
With many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy to read
There are a lot of side stories in this second book in the series, some continuing on from the first book and not yet resolved, so paving the way for a future episode. Olivia's father in jail for killing a prostitute, although he has always claimed to be innocent. However, as a member of a notorious gang, the Oaktown Boys, he is not generally believed, especially when her body was found in his home. Deck's brother Ben, also a cop, is in jail for an unlawful shooting that Deck witnessed. He also has been threatened by the Oaktown Boys and Deck is worried enough to have him moved to Fog Harbour prison. I was expecting this book to pick up where the last one finished up with the escape of serial killer Drake Devere from Fog Harbour prison, where he was one of Olivia's most challenging patients. However, this is clearly on hold for another book.
I find I'm warming more to the characters in this second book than in the first. They initially appeared somewhat stereotyped and overburdened with their tortured pasts and trust issues. However, they are starting to round out more into warmer individuals focusing more on the present and less on the past, although that is never far away. Deck and Olivia are still behaving like teenagers, failing to admit that they are attracted to each other, but there is less sniping at each other than before and hopefully their relationship can move on in the next book. JB is a welcome member of the team with his easy going nature and his banter with Deck. I'm curious to see where this series is going to go next with not only the development of the characters but also the various unresolved threads introduced so far.
With many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a copy to read
February 22, 2021
I enjoyed reading Ellery A. Kane's latest police procedural / psychological mystery-thriller. Her Perfect Bones is a well-plotted mystery, featuring a cast of complex characters, and with a strong sense of setting. Having travelled in northern coastal California several years ago, I found that the book brought a sense of nostalgia for the stunning setting of dramatic coast bordered by mysterious redwood forests.
Will Decker is a detective based in Fog Harbor (a fictional location somewhere in the vicinity of the real Crescent City), California. Off-duty, he's alerted by a frantic neighbour, who's made the blood-curdling discovery of a young woman's body, hidden in a sand-filled barrel in his cabin's basement.
The investigation by Decker and his colleague Detective Jimmy Benson, firstly to identify the woman in the barrel, then to solve the mystery of her death, leads the detectives to a San Francisco parolee, an elderly former porn-film producer who once owned the cabin and a lonely woman who lives in the backwoods.
Meanwhile, Dr. Olivia Rockwell, chief psychologist at the nearby Crescent Bay State Prison, is dealing with confronting personal issues, in addition to the demands of her professional role. Her father, imprisoned for the murder of a prostitute - which he has always denied - is up for parole. Her efforts to prove his innocence take her also to San Francisco, and the underworld of criminal gangs operating in the city's social housing areas.
Decker and Rockwell each harbour romantic feelings for the other, which they're reluctant to reveal, giving rise to a sweet (if rather far-fetched) sub-plot, as they circle one another while balancing their professional relationship and several high-octane situations with suspects.
I felt there was a well-executed escalation of tension over the course of the book, as the various threads of the investigation come together to reveal a ruthless killer.
Her Perfect Bones was a satisfying, undemanding read with some excellent insight into the complexities of working in the criminal justice system. Author Ellery A. Kane has clearly drawn on her personal experience from her "day job" as a forensic psychologist, injecting a healthy dose of verisimilitude, without overburdening the narrative with technical detail.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy police/psychology crossover mysteries and evocative settings.
My thanks to the author, Ellery A. Kane, publisher Bookouture and NetGalley for the oppportunity to read and review this title.
Will Decker is a detective based in Fog Harbor (a fictional location somewhere in the vicinity of the real Crescent City), California. Off-duty, he's alerted by a frantic neighbour, who's made the blood-curdling discovery of a young woman's body, hidden in a sand-filled barrel in his cabin's basement.
The investigation by Decker and his colleague Detective Jimmy Benson, firstly to identify the woman in the barrel, then to solve the mystery of her death, leads the detectives to a San Francisco parolee, an elderly former porn-film producer who once owned the cabin and a lonely woman who lives in the backwoods.
Meanwhile, Dr. Olivia Rockwell, chief psychologist at the nearby Crescent Bay State Prison, is dealing with confronting personal issues, in addition to the demands of her professional role. Her father, imprisoned for the murder of a prostitute - which he has always denied - is up for parole. Her efforts to prove his innocence take her also to San Francisco, and the underworld of criminal gangs operating in the city's social housing areas.
Decker and Rockwell each harbour romantic feelings for the other, which they're reluctant to reveal, giving rise to a sweet (if rather far-fetched) sub-plot, as they circle one another while balancing their professional relationship and several high-octane situations with suspects.
I felt there was a well-executed escalation of tension over the course of the book, as the various threads of the investigation come together to reveal a ruthless killer.
Her Perfect Bones was a satisfying, undemanding read with some excellent insight into the complexities of working in the criminal justice system. Author Ellery A. Kane has clearly drawn on her personal experience from her "day job" as a forensic psychologist, injecting a healthy dose of verisimilitude, without overburdening the narrative with technical detail.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy police/psychology crossover mysteries and evocative settings.
My thanks to the author, Ellery A. Kane, publisher Bookouture and NetGalley for the oppportunity to read and review this title.
February 12, 2021
3.5 stars
Her Perfect Bonesby Ellery A. Kane is the second in the Rockwell & Decker series.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books)
Olivia Rockwell is a Criminal Psychologist working at Crescent Bay State Prison, in her hometown of Fog Harbor, California. Her father is in another prison, serving a life sentence. Detective Will Decker moved to Fog Harbor after his brother was convicted of shooting a woman, ending up in prison because Will turned him in.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
When the body of a young girl is found in a barrel of sand in the cellar of an old cabin, there are few cues as to her identity. She has a piece of film around her neck. She was pregnant. Tracking down the former owner of the cabin, the detectives find that a movie was shot in the basement of the cabin, which included a girl in chains.
Olivia's father is up for parole, but the end result is not what she was expecting. Olivia is about to find out more about her family than she ever knew. She will also have to do some investigating of her own if she is going to find out the answer to her most important question. This will put her life in danger.
Meanwhile, Will is having family problems of his own.
My Opinions:
I didn't enjoy this one as much as the last book. The plot was still good, but it just seemed there was so much going on with the two main characters, and none of it good. It just got depressing instead of exciting.
With reference to the characters, I still like both Will and Olivia, and I have really begun to like JB. Emily was a little less annoying.
I am just rather sick of all the family issues, and wish the book would just concentrate on one good plot instead of so many side-stories.
I will continue to read the books in this series though, as the books are relatively fast reads, and the central plot/mystery is always good.
For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, author information and a favorite quotation or two from this book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
February 16, 2021
This second installment in the mystery/thriller series featuring criminal psychologist Olivia Rockwell and Fog Harbor, California, Detective Will Decker, continues a couple of months after the first. Since #1 ended with a bit of unfinished business involving escaped serial killer Drake Devere, I expected a resolution with him, but this book focuses on an entirely different situation even as it dangles more information about Olivia's convict father.
A young woman's body is found in a barrel in the basement of the cabin next door to Will's woodland home. Of course it's a homicide and Will and his partner, JB, are tasked with finding out what happened in this 35-year-old murder. Who is the girl and what happened to her in that house? NO SPOILERS.
A bit more fast-paced than the first, the narrative moves along told from the alternating viewpoints of Olivia and Will. Some of what happens seems a bit far-fetched as Olivia's involvement in the case as some sort of liaison to the Fog Harbor PD puts her always right in the action. The interaction between Olivia and Will is meant to be platonic and professional but each secretly really wants romance so that got really annoying. Just hook up already! I enjoyed this well enough but I had figured out where it was going fairly early on. Still waiting as more tidbits about Olivia's dad are revealed, and figure this is going to go on forever. I am not sold on either of the characters but do get a kick out of JB's sense of humor. Will I read the third? I figure it's at least a year away so I will need a reminder to look for it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. It was really good to read it immediately after finishing the first in the series. Definitely you will not want to start this book without having read that one.
A young woman's body is found in a barrel in the basement of the cabin next door to Will's woodland home. Of course it's a homicide and Will and his partner, JB, are tasked with finding out what happened in this 35-year-old murder. Who is the girl and what happened to her in that house? NO SPOILERS.
A bit more fast-paced than the first, the narrative moves along told from the alternating viewpoints of Olivia and Will. Some of what happens seems a bit far-fetched as Olivia's involvement in the case as some sort of liaison to the Fog Harbor PD puts her always right in the action. The interaction between Olivia and Will is meant to be platonic and professional but each secretly really wants romance so that got really annoying. Just hook up already! I enjoyed this well enough but I had figured out where it was going fairly early on. Still waiting as more tidbits about Olivia's dad are revealed, and figure this is going to go on forever. I am not sold on either of the characters but do get a kick out of JB's sense of humor. Will I read the third? I figure it's at least a year away so I will need a reminder to look for it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. It was really good to read it immediately after finishing the first in the series. Definitely you will not want to start this book without having read that one.
March 14, 2021
I enjoyed this one a lot. It was a relatively quick read that kept me turning the pages. I haven't read the first book in this series, so there was some background information that I was missing, but I think the book holds up well as a standalone. The characters were all quite likable. The plot, although a little convoluted at times, kept me guessing until the end. I'll definitely keep my eyes peeled for the next book!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
**ARC Via NetGalley**
July 22, 2021
I was thrilled to return to Fog Harbor to join Detective Will Decker and Criminal Psychologist Olivia Rockwell in their hunt for the perpetrators behind the body found in the barrel of sand. Read on to see what I thought of this installment in the Rockwell and Decker series,
Her Perfect Bones by Ellery Kane takes the reader back to Fog Harbor. The end of the first book, Watch Her Vanish, left me with questions regarding Olivia’s past and her relationship with her father and detective Will Decker. I got some answers, but there is still more to come.
Olivia and William have yet to get it right as it relates to the attraction between them. They both want each other, but Olivia fears getting involved with William. I totally understand her reasons. Hopefully, she will move on from her past.
This time around the story did not have have the level of suspense I hoped for. There were three scenes that I thought would cause my heart to leap to my throat. However, before I could process these moments, it ended. Despite this, I enjoyed the mystery. This was not an easy one to figure out. However, as the end drew near, the picture became clear, and I had a fair idea as to the who and the why.
Meanwhile, Olivia is investigating the circumstances leading to her father’s death. An investigation which led to surprising discoveries and increased the possibility of danger landing on her doorstep.
Will’s partner, JB, as usual, kept me laughing. There was never a dull moment when he was around.
The mystery surrounding the body found in the barrel was resolved. However, closure as it relates to circumstances surrounding the death of Olivia’s father remains unresolved.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Her Perfect Bones delivered a solid mystery with a satisfying end, while leaving the reader hungry for more.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Her Perfect Bones by Ellery Kane takes the reader back to Fog Harbor. The end of the first book, Watch Her Vanish, left me with questions regarding Olivia’s past and her relationship with her father and detective Will Decker. I got some answers, but there is still more to come.
Olivia and William have yet to get it right as it relates to the attraction between them. They both want each other, but Olivia fears getting involved with William. I totally understand her reasons. Hopefully, she will move on from her past.
This time around the story did not have have the level of suspense I hoped for. There were three scenes that I thought would cause my heart to leap to my throat. However, before I could process these moments, it ended. Despite this, I enjoyed the mystery. This was not an easy one to figure out. However, as the end drew near, the picture became clear, and I had a fair idea as to the who and the why.
Meanwhile, Olivia is investigating the circumstances leading to her father’s death. An investigation which led to surprising discoveries and increased the possibility of danger landing on her doorstep.
Will’s partner, JB, as usual, kept me laughing. There was never a dull moment when he was around.
The mystery surrounding the body found in the barrel was resolved. However, closure as it relates to circumstances surrounding the death of Olivia’s father remains unresolved.
Conclusion/Recommendation
Her Perfect Bones delivered a solid mystery with a satisfying end, while leaving the reader hungry for more.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
Want to read
July 28, 2023Her Perfect Bones by Ellery A. Kane is the second book in the Rockwell and Decker series. I personally have not read book one and was still very much able to read and follow book two. However, I enjoyed book two so much that I fully intend to read book one and all future books in this series.
Her Perfect Bones is a fast-paced thriller, and it has ALOT going on. While it has one main plot, there are a handful of subplots being pursued in regard to the main characters. I enjoyed the smaller side stories, but I can see how they may muddle the water and may not be every readers cup of tea.
I honestly can't wait to read more about Rockwell and Decker. I am ecstatic to have found another series worth following!
Thank you, Bookouture, for having me as part of this blog tour.I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Her Perfect Bones is a fast-paced thriller, and it has ALOT going on. While it has one main plot, there are a handful of subplots being pursued in regard to the main characters. I enjoyed the smaller side stories, but I can see how they may muddle the water and may not be every readers cup of tea.
I honestly can't wait to read more about Rockwell and Decker. I am ecstatic to have found another series worth following!
Thank you, Bookouture, for having me as part of this blog tour.I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 19, 2021
The description was super intriguing. The body of a young girl is found in a barrel inside a basement of a cabin. It seems like she has been buried there for a few decades at least. Furthermore, she was pregnant. Who would do something so cruel? Detective Will Decker and his partner will have to solve this cold case.
I actually haven't read the first book in the series but I don't think you necessarily have to. You would definitely benefit from reading the series from the beginning because I could tell that there are plot lines that start in the first book and are continued in this second installment and will probably carry over to the next books as well. I didn't feel lost while reading but if I had those details the story would have been deeper.
As it stands I really enjoyed this. The two main characters, Decker and Rockwell, are complex, flawed and layered individuals, great protagonists to read about. The chapters were very short, and I was flipping those pages faster, the pacing was really well done. The mystery was compelling, it kept me intrigued the whole way through. Closer to the end I started to realize who was doing all this but it did not take away from my enjoyment.
One criticism I have is that there is a lot going on in such a short book. There are so many plot lines that at times I forgot that there is a main mystery to be solved, so much time was spent on sideline plots. There is a main crime to solve, the mystery of Olivia's dad, the mysteries of Will as he has a few, the mystery of the big villain of the series, the General. It all reminded me of crime tv shows, only those can have like 24 episodes and 10 seasons to explore all that. And this is just a small book series. Maybe I feel this way because I haven't read book one, I don't know, we'll see when the next book comes out. But that is my only criticism, in all other aspects this was a solid thriller and I would definitely recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I actually haven't read the first book in the series but I don't think you necessarily have to. You would definitely benefit from reading the series from the beginning because I could tell that there are plot lines that start in the first book and are continued in this second installment and will probably carry over to the next books as well. I didn't feel lost while reading but if I had those details the story would have been deeper.
As it stands I really enjoyed this. The two main characters, Decker and Rockwell, are complex, flawed and layered individuals, great protagonists to read about. The chapters were very short, and I was flipping those pages faster, the pacing was really well done. The mystery was compelling, it kept me intrigued the whole way through. Closer to the end I started to realize who was doing all this but it did not take away from my enjoyment.
One criticism I have is that there is a lot going on in such a short book. There are so many plot lines that at times I forgot that there is a main mystery to be solved, so much time was spent on sideline plots. There is a main crime to solve, the mystery of Olivia's dad, the mysteries of Will as he has a few, the mystery of the big villain of the series, the General. It all reminded me of crime tv shows, only those can have like 24 episodes and 10 seasons to explore all that. And this is just a small book series. Maybe I feel this way because I haven't read book one, I don't know, we'll see when the next book comes out. But that is my only criticism, in all other aspects this was a solid thriller and I would definitely recommend.
Thank you to Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2020
Are you looking for action? An epic car chase? Slow burn romance that's filled with tension? What about really cool crime scenes? Twist and turns you never see coming? Then this is the book for you! I love Decker and Rockwell! Even though this book is on the longer side: it never once dragged on. Which is something other books in this genre have done for me. It's perfectly paced between keeping you on the edge of your seat and giving you room to breathe before the next big moment.
As with every book, this author's writing keeps getting better. She's getting so good with her witty dialogue and I'm here for it!
Start this series today! You will not regret it! It's worth it alone for the gritty world the author has built and how she keeps flushing out these complex characters. I can't wait to see where this goes next!
*Thanks to the author and NetGalley for this title in exchange for an honest review*
As with every book, this author's writing keeps getting better. She's getting so good with her witty dialogue and I'm here for it!
Start this series today! You will not regret it! It's worth it alone for the gritty world the author has built and how she keeps flushing out these complex characters. I can't wait to see where this goes next!
*Thanks to the author and NetGalley for this title in exchange for an honest review*
February 15, 2021
Her Perfect Bones is the second instalment in the criminal psychologist Olivia Rockwell and Detective Will Decker series set in Fog Harbour, California. The book opens with a prologue from 1985 when a seventeen year old pregnant teen boards the greyhound bus in order to run away from home. She travels to Fog Harbour believing it is the change she needs in life to make a fresh start. Fast forward nearly four decades and as Will is tending to his garden he sees Sam Weatherby frantically running towards him. He informs him that as he was clearing out his grandfather Jack's old cabin next door to Will's home he came upon a barrel too heavy to move complete with gruesome contents. Will ascends the basement stairs to try to find out what exactly the barrel holds and discovers the body of a mummified young woman with a ring around her fourth metacarpal and packed into the steel drum with sand, confirming what Sam had described. He awaits the arrival of partner Detective Jimmy Benson (JB) — who had a serious change of mood after giving up both nicotine and sugar in the past few weeks. A short time later JB and medical examiner Chet Clancy turn up to surveil the scene. Via the autopsy they identify the body as that of Shelby Mayfield and uncover a Nikon FA camera with a cracked lens and an undeveloped roll of film from the sand surrounding her corpse with the stonewashed jeans, high top sneakers and 1984 summer olympics t-shirt pointing them to the time period she was killed.
She seemingly died from multiple skull fractures as a result of three instances of blunt force trauma to the head with one of them causing an intercranial hematoma. The team find themselves with a thirty-five-year-old cold case on their hands and must comb through the evidence to attempt to bring closure to the case once and for all. But soon they have more than one murder on their plate. This is a compulsive and thoroughly engrossing police procedural with plenty of fast paced action, twists and turns, and a large pool of suspects with possible motives for the team to check out but with very few clues it's hard going and each step forward is earned through blood, sweat and tears. There is never a dull moment with the main thread of the plot being accompanied by several more minor threads primarily related to the personal lives of Decker and Rockwell. Decker's brother Ben, who is also a cop, resides in prison after committing the unlawful shooting of a woman that Decker witnessed and that resulted in his transfer to Fog Harbour PD. He has been threatened by the notorious Oaktown Boys which results in a move to FH prison for his safety. Whilst Olivia's father is also incarcerated but is up for parole. He was a member of the Oaktown Boys and was convicted of killing a prostitute but has always maintained his innocence. However, most don't believe him with the damning evidence that her body was discovered under his roof. A riveting, intense and well conceived read. Highly recommended.
She seemingly died from multiple skull fractures as a result of three instances of blunt force trauma to the head with one of them causing an intercranial hematoma. The team find themselves with a thirty-five-year-old cold case on their hands and must comb through the evidence to attempt to bring closure to the case once and for all. But soon they have more than one murder on their plate. This is a compulsive and thoroughly engrossing police procedural with plenty of fast paced action, twists and turns, and a large pool of suspects with possible motives for the team to check out but with very few clues it's hard going and each step forward is earned through blood, sweat and tears. There is never a dull moment with the main thread of the plot being accompanied by several more minor threads primarily related to the personal lives of Decker and Rockwell. Decker's brother Ben, who is also a cop, resides in prison after committing the unlawful shooting of a woman that Decker witnessed and that resulted in his transfer to Fog Harbour PD. He has been threatened by the notorious Oaktown Boys which results in a move to FH prison for his safety. Whilst Olivia's father is also incarcerated but is up for parole. He was a member of the Oaktown Boys and was convicted of killing a prostitute but has always maintained his innocence. However, most don't believe him with the damning evidence that her body was discovered under his roof. A riveting, intense and well conceived read. Highly recommended.
February 17, 2021
Her Perfect Bones is the 2nd book featuring Ellery A. Kane's detectives Rockwell and Decker.
The story begins with seventeen-year-old Shelby Mayfield who is sitting alone on a smelly bus. She has her brother's blue duffel bag with her filled with everything she owns including a tatty book, an old T-shirt, her ragdoll and a little bit of money. She has thrown up twice, watching the remains of her peanut butter and jelly sandwich floating around in the bottom of the metal toilet bowl. She will get off the bus at Fog Harbor station and wait for the car to take her to her new life...
Four decades later, Detective Will Decker is doing a bit of weeding, when his neighbour, Sam Weatherby arrives, his face ashen. He has found a barrel in his basement which is too heavy to lift, emitting a foul odour. It contains a human hand, the skin an unnatural brown, as well as the rest of a body, densely packed with sand. Will's partner, Detective Jimmy Benson (JB) arrives soon after, as well as Fog Harbor's medical examiner, Chet Clancy. The corpse has lacerations to the back of the head, is later identified and the detectives realise they are dealing with a cold case.
Her Perfect Bones had a well-thought-out plot and there was a lot going on. The characters all had strong personalities and the vast array of suspects all with possible motives but few clues meant some hard work for the team. The author's writing was fluent, and I never found myself bored or bogged down with detail. There was never a dull moment with the main thread of the plot accompanied by other subplots chiefly concerning the private lives of Decker and Rockwell. An intense and riveting read. The main storyline is well wrapped up leaving a few dangling threads, paving the way for further development in future books. I can't wait to read more about Rockwell and Decker.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
The story begins with seventeen-year-old Shelby Mayfield who is sitting alone on a smelly bus. She has her brother's blue duffel bag with her filled with everything she owns including a tatty book, an old T-shirt, her ragdoll and a little bit of money. She has thrown up twice, watching the remains of her peanut butter and jelly sandwich floating around in the bottom of the metal toilet bowl. She will get off the bus at Fog Harbor station and wait for the car to take her to her new life...
Four decades later, Detective Will Decker is doing a bit of weeding, when his neighbour, Sam Weatherby arrives, his face ashen. He has found a barrel in his basement which is too heavy to lift, emitting a foul odour. It contains a human hand, the skin an unnatural brown, as well as the rest of a body, densely packed with sand. Will's partner, Detective Jimmy Benson (JB) arrives soon after, as well as Fog Harbor's medical examiner, Chet Clancy. The corpse has lacerations to the back of the head, is later identified and the detectives realise they are dealing with a cold case.
Her Perfect Bones had a well-thought-out plot and there was a lot going on. The characters all had strong personalities and the vast array of suspects all with possible motives but few clues meant some hard work for the team. The author's writing was fluent, and I never found myself bored or bogged down with detail. There was never a dull moment with the main thread of the plot accompanied by other subplots chiefly concerning the private lives of Decker and Rockwell. An intense and riveting read. The main storyline is well wrapped up leaving a few dangling threads, paving the way for further development in future books. I can't wait to read more about Rockwell and Decker.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 27, 2021
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bookouture for an advance copy of Her Perfect Bones, the second novel to feature criminal psychologist Olivia Rockwell and Detective Will Decker of the Fog Harbour, California Police Department.
A new homeowner discovers a barrel full of sand and a mummified body in his basement. Decker and his partner JB Benson are on the case, but identifying the victim is only their first problem in this coldest of cold cases.
I thoroughly enjoyed Her Perfect Bones which is an action packed read with several plot lines. In fact it can seem a little busy at times as the reader tries to process all the different strands.
The novel opens in 1985 with teenager Shelby Mayfield making her way to Fog Harbour on the bus with an unexplained agenda. Then comes the discovery of the body so the reader watches Decker and JB play catch up until they identify her. I liked the identification process and though it was ingenious and quite unusual. In the meantime Olivia is dealing with personal issues regarding her inmate father and his gang ties. This becomes a major strand in the novel and may become an issue throughout the series as it is unresolved by the end of this novel. Then Decker’s brother Ben, also incarcerated, starts having problems with the same gang. Complicated? Extremely. I don’t understand gang culture and felt decidedly lost in the intricacies of these plots.
I much preferred the main story of the body in the barrel. It is well conceived and executed with a steady flow of reveals and discoveries, a few twists and some action scenes. Call me a traditionalist but I felt on surer ground with the familiarity of a murder investigation, especially as I didn’t guess either the perpetrator or motive and that kept me reading compulsively.
I like the dialogue between Decker and JB. It’s silly and amusing, much like real life, and it kept me smiling. The romantic tension is still simmering between Decker and Olivia but neither will make a move. Surely in the next book it’s put up or shut up time, otherwise it will get repetitive.
Her Perfect Bones is a good read that I can recommend.
A new homeowner discovers a barrel full of sand and a mummified body in his basement. Decker and his partner JB Benson are on the case, but identifying the victim is only their first problem in this coldest of cold cases.
I thoroughly enjoyed Her Perfect Bones which is an action packed read with several plot lines. In fact it can seem a little busy at times as the reader tries to process all the different strands.
The novel opens in 1985 with teenager Shelby Mayfield making her way to Fog Harbour on the bus with an unexplained agenda. Then comes the discovery of the body so the reader watches Decker and JB play catch up until they identify her. I liked the identification process and though it was ingenious and quite unusual. In the meantime Olivia is dealing with personal issues regarding her inmate father and his gang ties. This becomes a major strand in the novel and may become an issue throughout the series as it is unresolved by the end of this novel. Then Decker’s brother Ben, also incarcerated, starts having problems with the same gang. Complicated? Extremely. I don’t understand gang culture and felt decidedly lost in the intricacies of these plots.
I much preferred the main story of the body in the barrel. It is well conceived and executed with a steady flow of reveals and discoveries, a few twists and some action scenes. Call me a traditionalist but I felt on surer ground with the familiarity of a murder investigation, especially as I didn’t guess either the perpetrator or motive and that kept me reading compulsively.
I like the dialogue between Decker and JB. It’s silly and amusing, much like real life, and it kept me smiling. The romantic tension is still simmering between Decker and Olivia but neither will make a move. Surely in the next book it’s put up or shut up time, otherwise it will get repetitive.
Her Perfect Bones is a good read that I can recommend.
May 22, 2024
I have read book 1 and 3 a while ago, so at first I had to dig a bit in my memory to place the main characters and the story, but it all came back to me very soon. I also remember I had loved the two other book deeply and I was happy to pick this one up to fill in the missing pieces.
I always enjoy a team where there is room for a bit of banter. Some might think it's not appropriate to joke on the job, but I do understand the police officers and detectives need this in order to lighten the mood when dealing with gruesome cases. It also gives me, the reader, the opportunity to take a breather before plunging into the core of the matter again.
When person A does somehthing wrong and person B wants to help to keep it all under wraps, it all gets worse, so much worse...
Olivia and Dec saw a few skeletons tumbling out of the closet leaving them flabbergasted. JB, Dec's partner is hilarious. He made my heart sing.
Great book, great series. 5 stars
Thank you
I always enjoy a team where there is room for a bit of banter. Some might think it's not appropriate to joke on the job, but I do understand the police officers and detectives need this in order to lighten the mood when dealing with gruesome cases. It also gives me, the reader, the opportunity to take a breather before plunging into the core of the matter again.
When person A does somehthing wrong and person B wants to help to keep it all under wraps, it all gets worse, so much worse...
Olivia and Dec saw a few skeletons tumbling out of the closet leaving them flabbergasted. JB, Dec's partner is hilarious. He made my heart sing.
Great book, great series. 5 stars
Thank you
September 8, 2021
When a young girl's body is found hidden in a barrel, the local police are baffled. The only lead they have is an old camera found looped around her neck. Criminal Psychologist Olivia Rockwell is stunned when she recognizes a picture of a rag doll.
Olivia used to have a doll just like that ... given to her by her father ... himself a deadly killer.
Intense suspense from start to finish, this is a well-written page turner littered with twists and turns that lead to a surprising conclusion. The characters are solidly drawn. As the author herself is a forensic psychologist, I expected a great deal of realism, credibility. I was not disappointed. Although this is 2nd in the series, it is easily read as a stand alone. I would definitely recommend reading in order, as this is a riveting series.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Olivia used to have a doll just like that ... given to her by her father ... himself a deadly killer.
Intense suspense from start to finish, this is a well-written page turner littered with twists and turns that lead to a surprising conclusion. The characters are solidly drawn. As the author herself is a forensic psychologist, I expected a great deal of realism, credibility. I was not disappointed. Although this is 2nd in the series, it is easily read as a stand alone. I would definitely recommend reading in order, as this is a riveting series.
Many thanks to the author / Bookouture / Netgalley for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
February 9, 2021
Her Perfect Bones by Ellery Kane
This is the 2nd book in the series but does and can stand alone. Decker and Oliva are once again thrown together to solve a murder mystery and still have their attraction to each other that neither one wants to admit to....this story grabs you from the start and keeps you guessing till the end. Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for this book! Looking forward to book 3!
This is the 2nd book in the series but does and can stand alone. Decker and Oliva are once again thrown together to solve a murder mystery and still have their attraction to each other that neither one wants to admit to....this story grabs you from the start and keeps you guessing till the end. Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for this book! Looking forward to book 3!
March 1, 2021
When the body of a pregnant young woman is discovered in a barrel of sand that’s been stored in an abandoned cabin for over 30 years, Detective Will Decker wonders if there is any hope of solving a case this cold. Criminal psychologist Olivia Rockwell might be able to help out, but when she sees the image of a doll she knows must have been made by someone she knew in her childhood, she realises her judgement may be compromised.
There are an awful lot of side stories going on here; we first meet Olivia at her father’s bail hearing, as he tries to get out of prison after serving 27 years for murder. Within hours he’s dead of an apparent suicide, which Olivia just doesn’t buy, and the twists keep coming as she discovers he was working as an informant for the police. While the ‘current’ crime (even though it’s a very cold victim) does tie back to Olivia’s childhood, the link is actually fairly tenuous and I started feeling like all the stuff going on with her family was just a distraction.
This is the second in series (I haven’t read the first) and though I followed along pretty well, I do feel like I may have missed out on a lot of character building from the first book, because there’s not much of it here. We don’t get to know either Decker or Olivia all that well. There’s an enormous Chekov’s Gun that never goes off, as we are told early on about a serial killer who escaped and will apparently be after Olivia… and then never shows up. Then there’s yet another side plot going on with Will’s convict brother, and more with his ex - multiple exes of Olivia’s show up - and frankly, there are just too many parallel threads here, most of which aren’t connected to the central story here other than tangentially. I couldn’t keep track of all the side characters introduced, and every one of them was a distraction from the main characters I was supposed to care about.
There’s a good story in here - I cared about Shelby, the victim - and I was intrigued by the slow unravelling of her story, but there’s just way too much ‘noise’ going on with all the other side stories. Overall, I’ll give it three stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
There are an awful lot of side stories going on here; we first meet Olivia at her father’s bail hearing, as he tries to get out of prison after serving 27 years for murder. Within hours he’s dead of an apparent suicide, which Olivia just doesn’t buy, and the twists keep coming as she discovers he was working as an informant for the police. While the ‘current’ crime (even though it’s a very cold victim) does tie back to Olivia’s childhood, the link is actually fairly tenuous and I started feeling like all the stuff going on with her family was just a distraction.
This is the second in series (I haven’t read the first) and though I followed along pretty well, I do feel like I may have missed out on a lot of character building from the first book, because there’s not much of it here. We don’t get to know either Decker or Olivia all that well. There’s an enormous Chekov’s Gun that never goes off, as we are told early on about a serial killer who escaped and will apparently be after Olivia… and then never shows up. Then there’s yet another side plot going on with Will’s convict brother, and more with his ex - multiple exes of Olivia’s show up - and frankly, there are just too many parallel threads here, most of which aren’t connected to the central story here other than tangentially. I couldn’t keep track of all the side characters introduced, and every one of them was a distraction from the main characters I was supposed to care about.
There’s a good story in here - I cared about Shelby, the victim - and I was intrigued by the slow unravelling of her story, but there’s just way too much ‘noise’ going on with all the other side stories. Overall, I’ll give it three stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
March 21, 2021
Her Perfect Bones, the second book in the Rockwell and Decker series was a perfect way to end an intense week. The book was riveting both in characters & the plot. I couldn't stop turning the pages of this book that opened with a creepy & sinister prologue that had me hooked right from the start! The story of Shelby & her stolen future elicited some rather strong emotions. But the thrill of the chase had me reading the book well into the night. I find the plot & themes addressed in this book to be unique yet thrilling! More than Olivia & Deck, I am a sucker for the JB & Deck scenes! Their dialogues leave me amused & provide a comical aspect in an otherwise serious book. I highly appreciate & welcome that balance. As they go through each case its fascinating to see Decker & Rockwell reveal some nuances about what shapes them as a person. I can't wait to read what the two get up to next.
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookouture & Ellery Kane for an arc!
Thank you, NetGalley, Bookouture & Ellery Kane for an arc!
January 2, 2021
2nd book for January
Title: Her Perfect Bones
Series :Rockwell and Decker #2
Author: Ellery Kane
NetGalley ARC
Rating:5
Genre: mystery thriller
Notes: secrets that are coming out, murder as well as disappearances, family drama , will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. Plus it'll have you setting on the edge of your set and betting you lip one moment and then the next moment it'll have you time to catch your breath.
Title: Her Perfect Bones
Series :Rockwell and Decker #2
Author: Ellery Kane
NetGalley ARC
Rating:5
Genre: mystery thriller
Notes: secrets that are coming out, murder as well as disappearances, family drama , will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. Plus it'll have you setting on the edge of your set and betting you lip one moment and then the next moment it'll have you time to catch your breath.
January 15, 2025
3.75
I enjoyed this squeal. The beginning had a lot of plot elements that I didn’t see coming and I low key didn’t love. It made me sad. The mystery in this was intriguing and it keep me reading. I think of you liked the first one you’ll like this. I need more romantic relationships development though.
I enjoyed this squeal. The beginning had a lot of plot elements that I didn’t see coming and I low key didn’t love. It made me sad. The mystery in this was intriguing and it keep me reading. I think of you liked the first one you’ll like this. I need more romantic relationships development though.
November 8, 2021
My thanks, to Bookoutre, Ellery A. Kane and Netgalley. I had a few issues with this story. There were so many sidestories going on! Yet, that's not something to distract me too much. I also realize that this is the second in this series..Again, I still don't feel like I missed out from not reading the first book. No, what I finally noticed was that I was kinda falling for Olivia and Decker. They are mad for each other, yet reluctant to admit it! Cute! But, both are brave as anything, and they do stupid things to find the "big bad." I kept thinking of Karin Slaughters "Jeffrey Tolliver" characters. Why? I'm still not sure! Had Kane been a bit more hardcore and bloody minded? What I do know is that I really liked this story! Sadly, I have again found another series to read! When is enough, enough! When author's who are new to me, ✋ stop publishing good books! Yeah! I liked this one. A lot!
May 20, 2021
https://openbooksociety.com/article/h...
Her Perfect Bones
Rockwell and Decker, Book #2
By Ellery A. Kane
ISBN: 9781838888626
Website: ellerykane(.)com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary:
The girl’s body is curled up like a shell and almost completely buried in sand. Only her fingertips can be seen, reaching helplessly up towards an escape she will never find…
Seventeen-year-old Shelby Mayfield sits alone on a bus to Fog Harbor, California. Aside from a few items of clothing, all she has with her is twenty-two dollars, the ragdoll she’s kept since kindergarten, and the devastating secret she’s been hiding.
How long will it be before her family realizes she’s gone?
Can anyone see the fresh bruise on her cheek beneath the makeup?
Perhaps she was a fool to believe the person she is meeting in this remote little town could help her…
When a girl’s body is found hidden in a barrel in a woodland cabin, the local police are at a loss. The film from an old camera found looped around her neck is their only lead, but Criminal Psychologist Olivia Rockwell’s blood turns to ice when she recognizes the ragdoll in one of the girl’s last photographs. She used to own one just like it, and it can only mean one thing: if she doesn’t dig deep into the mind of a deadly killer from her past—her own father—more innocent lives will be in danger…
A totally gripping and utterly addictive crime thriller for readers who love Lisa Regan, Kendra Elliot and Melinda Leigh. But be warned: you’ll be sleeping with the lights on after you’ve raced through the pages in one sitting! (Goodreads)
Review:
Her Perfect Bones is the second book in the Rockwell and Decker series by Ellery A. Kane. All I can say is… WOW! This series is just getting better with each story (in my humble opinion). I did not want to put this book down! It captured my interest from the prologue and kept my interest until the final word in the epilogue. A psychological mystery thriller worth picking up!
The main characters: Olivia Rockwell is a criminal psychologist working at Crescent Bay State Prison. At this time – her father is up for parole after a lifetime of prison. Detective Will Decker is a transplant from San Francisco. He has moved mainly as a result of his being a witness in the trial of a woman’s death (by his cop brother Ben).
Found – a corpse and her unborn baby in a barrel filled with sand in the basement of a home that had not been inhabited in quite a while. Who is the deceased, when did she die and who would do this to her! That is what Detective Will Decker must find out… when, why and by whom. A tall order given how long ago the murder was – approximately 35 years ago!
A tangled web is weaved, involving many characters and even more homicides to come. While I am not excited by the sheer number of deaths in this book – it certainly created a compelling, can’t put down read. Delving into the past of various characters (for example – Olivia’s dad – known as Mad Dog) heightened the level of depth of the characters above what I expected. I was also pleasantly surprised in that I was not able to pin down 100% who the killer of Shelby was until quite late in the story telling. As for the murderer of the other homicides – that was a definite surprise to me ☺
One aspect I did find a bit off-putting was just the sheer number of storylines being told. At times it was a bit confusing. However, once I created a diagram outlining the relationships between everyone, it seemed to flow better. But in my humble opinion – fewer characters and fewer storylines would have enhanced the main story.
There is humor within the confines of this book cover as well – for example – when Will was cleaning out his yard:
“He grimaced as he tossed the remains of a gray squirrel into a trash bag.
“Cy, Not again, dude.”
The prime suspect in the homicide – Will’s one-eyed cat, Cyclops – stretched in the sun, gloating like a true psychopath. At least he hadn’t deposited his victim on Will’s tailgate this time.
The relationship between Will and his partner JB was reminiscent of many TV crime partners (for example: The Andy Griffith Show: Andy Taylor and Barney Fife or Blue Bloods: Danny Reagan and Maria Baez or even Law & Order: Lennie Briscoe and Mike Logan). JB’s growth did grow on me – you could see that there might be substance underneath his wisecracking. And I think he may be as good a cop as he thinks he is – but his high opinion of himself definitely made me chuckle many times throughout the story. No ego problem there!
Another character worth noting is Grimaldi. He may be old and appear doddering – but I think it is all an act. I quite enjoyed the good cop/bad cop play between Grimaldi and Will and JB.
We also get a wee bit more of the romance between Rockwell and Decker – and by a wee bit – I truly mean that. In this book – they seem to be perpetually mad at each other. I suspect much of that has to do with their individual prior baggage, but also for the feelings they have for each other but are fighting hard against. And when it looks like they are getting close (emotionally as well as physically -> the phone rings – of course). I cannot wait to see how this relationship develops over (I hope) future books in this series.
I must say – I love the cover art – both for this book and the previous one in the series – a bit creepy. I also found it a bit haunting to have the book’s prologue and epilogue center on Shelby (the victim). It just seemed fitting actually – a rounding out of Shelby’s story from September 1985 to March 1986.
If you like thriller’s that leave you wondering if you should leave the light on after reading – then I suggest Her Perfect Bones. I cannot wait to see what a new addition to the Rockwell and Decker series will bring.
Her Perfect Bones
Rockwell and Decker, Book #2
By Ellery A. Kane
ISBN: 9781838888626
Website: ellerykane(.)com
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary:
The girl’s body is curled up like a shell and almost completely buried in sand. Only her fingertips can be seen, reaching helplessly up towards an escape she will never find…
Seventeen-year-old Shelby Mayfield sits alone on a bus to Fog Harbor, California. Aside from a few items of clothing, all she has with her is twenty-two dollars, the ragdoll she’s kept since kindergarten, and the devastating secret she’s been hiding.
How long will it be before her family realizes she’s gone?
Can anyone see the fresh bruise on her cheek beneath the makeup?
Perhaps she was a fool to believe the person she is meeting in this remote little town could help her…
When a girl’s body is found hidden in a barrel in a woodland cabin, the local police are at a loss. The film from an old camera found looped around her neck is their only lead, but Criminal Psychologist Olivia Rockwell’s blood turns to ice when she recognizes the ragdoll in one of the girl’s last photographs. She used to own one just like it, and it can only mean one thing: if she doesn’t dig deep into the mind of a deadly killer from her past—her own father—more innocent lives will be in danger…
A totally gripping and utterly addictive crime thriller for readers who love Lisa Regan, Kendra Elliot and Melinda Leigh. But be warned: you’ll be sleeping with the lights on after you’ve raced through the pages in one sitting! (Goodreads)
Review:
Her Perfect Bones is the second book in the Rockwell and Decker series by Ellery A. Kane. All I can say is… WOW! This series is just getting better with each story (in my humble opinion). I did not want to put this book down! It captured my interest from the prologue and kept my interest until the final word in the epilogue. A psychological mystery thriller worth picking up!
The main characters: Olivia Rockwell is a criminal psychologist working at Crescent Bay State Prison. At this time – her father is up for parole after a lifetime of prison. Detective Will Decker is a transplant from San Francisco. He has moved mainly as a result of his being a witness in the trial of a woman’s death (by his cop brother Ben).
Found – a corpse and her unborn baby in a barrel filled with sand in the basement of a home that had not been inhabited in quite a while. Who is the deceased, when did she die and who would do this to her! That is what Detective Will Decker must find out… when, why and by whom. A tall order given how long ago the murder was – approximately 35 years ago!
A tangled web is weaved, involving many characters and even more homicides to come. While I am not excited by the sheer number of deaths in this book – it certainly created a compelling, can’t put down read. Delving into the past of various characters (for example – Olivia’s dad – known as Mad Dog) heightened the level of depth of the characters above what I expected. I was also pleasantly surprised in that I was not able to pin down 100% who the killer of Shelby was until quite late in the story telling. As for the murderer of the other homicides – that was a definite surprise to me ☺
One aspect I did find a bit off-putting was just the sheer number of storylines being told. At times it was a bit confusing. However, once I created a diagram outlining the relationships between everyone, it seemed to flow better. But in my humble opinion – fewer characters and fewer storylines would have enhanced the main story.
There is humor within the confines of this book cover as well – for example – when Will was cleaning out his yard:
“He grimaced as he tossed the remains of a gray squirrel into a trash bag.
“Cy, Not again, dude.”
The prime suspect in the homicide – Will’s one-eyed cat, Cyclops – stretched in the sun, gloating like a true psychopath. At least he hadn’t deposited his victim on Will’s tailgate this time.
The relationship between Will and his partner JB was reminiscent of many TV crime partners (for example: The Andy Griffith Show: Andy Taylor and Barney Fife or Blue Bloods: Danny Reagan and Maria Baez or even Law & Order: Lennie Briscoe and Mike Logan). JB’s growth did grow on me – you could see that there might be substance underneath his wisecracking. And I think he may be as good a cop as he thinks he is – but his high opinion of himself definitely made me chuckle many times throughout the story. No ego problem there!
Another character worth noting is Grimaldi. He may be old and appear doddering – but I think it is all an act. I quite enjoyed the good cop/bad cop play between Grimaldi and Will and JB.
We also get a wee bit more of the romance between Rockwell and Decker – and by a wee bit – I truly mean that. In this book – they seem to be perpetually mad at each other. I suspect much of that has to do with their individual prior baggage, but also for the feelings they have for each other but are fighting hard against. And when it looks like they are getting close (emotionally as well as physically -> the phone rings – of course). I cannot wait to see how this relationship develops over (I hope) future books in this series.
I must say – I love the cover art – both for this book and the previous one in the series – a bit creepy. I also found it a bit haunting to have the book’s prologue and epilogue center on Shelby (the victim). It just seemed fitting actually – a rounding out of Shelby’s story from September 1985 to March 1986.
If you like thriller’s that leave you wondering if you should leave the light on after reading – then I suggest Her Perfect Bones. I cannot wait to see what a new addition to the Rockwell and Decker series will bring.
February 22, 2021
After the mummified body of a young girl encased in a barrel is discovered in the basement of a woodland cabin situated not far the home of Detective Will Decker,he and his partner JB find themselves investigating a frustrating and complex case with fingers that reach into the past. Struggling to uncover any viable leads, Will turns to Criminal Psychologist Olivia Rockwell to see if she can help only whilst she is looking at the files,Olivia spots something which links the murder victim to her own past. Olivia is also dealing with her own personal issues concerning her father,the convicted murderer and the combination of what she saw in the files along with a shocking event results in her digging into his past,little realising that her search for the truth could be placing her own life in danger.
After a prologue in which we get a insight into Shelby's thoughts during her ill fated coach trip,the chapters then alternated between the perspectives of Will and Olivia. I thought that Detective Will Decker or City Boy as JB called him was a really likeable character, I loved the banter and camaraderie between the pair,they were like a old married couple who had been together for years,not just six months. They were the proverbial odd couple,chalk and cheese, JB the brash,loud mouth and Will,the quiet,caring one but they worked really well together and made me laugh out loud a number of times. I loved their cheeky interactions with Chief Flack and how the story wasn't bogged down with interdepartmental back stabbing and bureaucracy. As well as trying to figure out which of their multiple suspects had murdered and entombed a innocent young girl in a barrel and were now trying to stop the truth from being uncovered. Will was also dealing with the on going issue of his brother Ben and how to keep him safe from the people who were after him. A task that was made all the more difficult by the fact that Ben was in prison. Then,there was the continuing story line of the attraction between Will and Olivia,the will they,won't they scenario that ran throughout the book.
I thought Olivia was a very likeable character,she was strong willed,stubborn,very intelligent,spoke her mind,didn't take any nonsense from anyone and was very protective of her younger sister Emily. During this story Olivia uncovers some shocking secrets and lies involving her own family and she and the reader are left with unanswered questions when her story ends on a cliff hanger.
Interspersed throughout the book was chapters that were set in the studio and live in location in Fog Harbour where not very likeable and unscrupulous reporter Heather Hoffman kept the viewers informed about the progress of the investigation.
Omg...wow,just Wow, I loved this well written,addictive,gripping thriller,it's fast paced,packed full of twists and turns,kept me guessing and had me captivated and glued to my kindle. The chapters were short and snappy and many ended in a way that gave me a very bad case of just one more chapter syndrome. The author has created a fantastic cast of characters,individuals that worm their way into your heart and make you care about them. Although this is the second book in a series,it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. I really enjoyed this book and I would give it more than five stars if I could. I can't wait to find out what the author has planned for Will,JB and Olivia in book 3. Very very highly recommended
After a prologue in which we get a insight into Shelby's thoughts during her ill fated coach trip,the chapters then alternated between the perspectives of Will and Olivia. I thought that Detective Will Decker or City Boy as JB called him was a really likeable character, I loved the banter and camaraderie between the pair,they were like a old married couple who had been together for years,not just six months. They were the proverbial odd couple,chalk and cheese, JB the brash,loud mouth and Will,the quiet,caring one but they worked really well together and made me laugh out loud a number of times. I loved their cheeky interactions with Chief Flack and how the story wasn't bogged down with interdepartmental back stabbing and bureaucracy. As well as trying to figure out which of their multiple suspects had murdered and entombed a innocent young girl in a barrel and were now trying to stop the truth from being uncovered. Will was also dealing with the on going issue of his brother Ben and how to keep him safe from the people who were after him. A task that was made all the more difficult by the fact that Ben was in prison. Then,there was the continuing story line of the attraction between Will and Olivia,the will they,won't they scenario that ran throughout the book.
I thought Olivia was a very likeable character,she was strong willed,stubborn,very intelligent,spoke her mind,didn't take any nonsense from anyone and was very protective of her younger sister Emily. During this story Olivia uncovers some shocking secrets and lies involving her own family and she and the reader are left with unanswered questions when her story ends on a cliff hanger.
Interspersed throughout the book was chapters that were set in the studio and live in location in Fog Harbour where not very likeable and unscrupulous reporter Heather Hoffman kept the viewers informed about the progress of the investigation.
Omg...wow,just Wow, I loved this well written,addictive,gripping thriller,it's fast paced,packed full of twists and turns,kept me guessing and had me captivated and glued to my kindle. The chapters were short and snappy and many ended in a way that gave me a very bad case of just one more chapter syndrome. The author has created a fantastic cast of characters,individuals that worm their way into your heart and make you care about them. Although this is the second book in a series,it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone. I really enjoyed this book and I would give it more than five stars if I could. I can't wait to find out what the author has planned for Will,JB and Olivia in book 3. Very very highly recommended
February 8, 2021
An action-packed thriller, Her Perfect Bones has a gripping opening and fast-paced plot. With short chapters told through the multiple perspectives, the development and writing both improve with this second instalment, focusing on the gritty crime and exciting thrills of the investigation.
The first book ended with some loose ends which I was hoping would get tied up, but the book begins with a new crime and only mentions the previous story briefly to give some context. This means that it works as a standalone book so that you don’t need any knowledge of the first to enjoy it. The relationships are easy to get to grips with so it’s straightforward to follow, but there are some recurring annoyances that I was hoping would have been left behind.
There was a lot I liked about the first instalment, Watch Her Vanish, but my main annoyance regarded Will and Olivia’s childish quips between each other in an attempt to disguise their sexual tension. I was hoping that since they had broken the ice, the pig-tail pulling would stop. But Will and Olivia still have a childish relationship that hasn’t moved passed the stage of snide comments while secretly daydreaming about each other, instead of admitting that they actually respect each other’s input.
Fortunately, the Dr Smarty Pants and Mr Wise Guy nicknames didn’t resurface, but City Boy stuck around and some of the laddish banter continued. Still, they weren’t as overused as they were in the first book so these personality traits didn’t dominate as much this time around. The characters were much more relatable this time, as well, as the author gives her characters much fuller personalities so I enjoyed their company a lot more.
However, while the main story is full of twists and links well with the subplot of Olivia’s past, I feel like this subplot gets left behind towards the end. So while there’s a lot that I feel improves from the first instalment, I was still left wanting to know more.
The first book ended with some loose ends which I was hoping would get tied up, but the book begins with a new crime and only mentions the previous story briefly to give some context. This means that it works as a standalone book so that you don’t need any knowledge of the first to enjoy it. The relationships are easy to get to grips with so it’s straightforward to follow, but there are some recurring annoyances that I was hoping would have been left behind.
There was a lot I liked about the first instalment, Watch Her Vanish, but my main annoyance regarded Will and Olivia’s childish quips between each other in an attempt to disguise their sexual tension. I was hoping that since they had broken the ice, the pig-tail pulling would stop. But Will and Olivia still have a childish relationship that hasn’t moved passed the stage of snide comments while secretly daydreaming about each other, instead of admitting that they actually respect each other’s input.
Fortunately, the Dr Smarty Pants and Mr Wise Guy nicknames didn’t resurface, but City Boy stuck around and some of the laddish banter continued. Still, they weren’t as overused as they were in the first book so these personality traits didn’t dominate as much this time around. The characters were much more relatable this time, as well, as the author gives her characters much fuller personalities so I enjoyed their company a lot more.
However, while the main story is full of twists and links well with the subplot of Olivia’s past, I feel like this subplot gets left behind towards the end. So while there’s a lot that I feel improves from the first instalment, I was still left wanting to know more.
February 10, 2021
I can't wait for the next book!
A pregnant teenager's body is found in a barrel of sand, mummified after 35 years. Who was she? What could have happened?
Deck and his partner JB investigate, taking Deck back to San Francisco and his family.
Olivia's dad is up for parole - found hanging from a pipe in a holding cell minutes after the hearing ends. Olivia refuses to believe the suicide ruling.
Together Deck and Olivia work to solve the murder of the pregnant teen, their personal lives weaving on the edges.
Excellent plot, fast paced. Great characters, humor and twists.
I did not read the first book in the series- didn't hold me back.
A pregnant teenager's body is found in a barrel of sand, mummified after 35 years. Who was she? What could have happened?
Deck and his partner JB investigate, taking Deck back to San Francisco and his family.
Olivia's dad is up for parole - found hanging from a pipe in a holding cell minutes after the hearing ends. Olivia refuses to believe the suicide ruling.
Together Deck and Olivia work to solve the murder of the pregnant teen, their personal lives weaving on the edges.
Excellent plot, fast paced. Great characters, humor and twists.
I did not read the first book in the series- didn't hold me back.
March 21, 2021
I loved every second of this book and every twist and turn the author sends you to finding the actual killer is just really suspenseful and keeps you guessing from beginning up till the very end. I actually love these two characters—Rockwell & Decker—and how they work together to solve such a complex crime and wish they would finally just hook up already bc the sexual chemistry is there and you know eventually they will HAVE to end up together. This was the first book I’ve read from this author and from this series but I know I will be eager to read more when I can. It’s super easy to get sucked into and didn’t wanna put this novel down the second I started reading! If you like a good murder mystery and once that’ll keep you guessing throughout the story line—this book is for you! Can’t wait to read another book in this series I’m definitely hooked!
February 28, 2021
Rockwell and Decker return in the second book in this series that doesn’t disappoint. I definitely recommend it as a fun, quick thriller.
To read my full review, please visit my blog at:
https://bookwormerin.com/review/her-p...
To read my full review, please visit my blog at:
https://bookwormerin.com/review/her-p...
February 13, 2021
This is the second book in this series and it’s a great read.
Detective Will Decker is called when a body is discovered in a barrel of sand.
They determine that it’s a young woman who has been mummified due to the time she had been buried there. She was also heavily pregnant when she died.
At the same time, Olivia is at her father’s parole hearing when tragedy strikes and her and her sister want answers.
In the first book we learnt of their father’s past, and this book looks further into things.
Decker asks for Olivia’s input on the murder case and once again they both feel the attraction, but won’t do anything about it.
We learn that there’s links between Decker’s father and Olivia’s father and this opens a whole can of worms.
With the hunt for the young woman’s killer taking Decker and JB in different directions, another murder takes place and a reporter is seriously injured.
This is a very clever crime thriller that certainly kept me guessing who the killer was.
I loved the banter between Decker and JB and felt like I’ve got to know all the characters better in this book.
This is a gripping read that will have you racing through the pages.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Detective Will Decker is called when a body is discovered in a barrel of sand.
They determine that it’s a young woman who has been mummified due to the time she had been buried there. She was also heavily pregnant when she died.
At the same time, Olivia is at her father’s parole hearing when tragedy strikes and her and her sister want answers.
In the first book we learnt of their father’s past, and this book looks further into things.
Decker asks for Olivia’s input on the murder case and once again they both feel the attraction, but won’t do anything about it.
We learn that there’s links between Decker’s father and Olivia’s father and this opens a whole can of worms.
With the hunt for the young woman’s killer taking Decker and JB in different directions, another murder takes place and a reporter is seriously injured.
This is a very clever crime thriller that certainly kept me guessing who the killer was.
I loved the banter between Decker and JB and felt like I’ve got to know all the characters better in this book.
This is a gripping read that will have you racing through the pages.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
July 26, 2025
Well after reading the comments I think no one would want to read the book. I fail to understand why write synopsis of the book in every next comment and that too with a lot of spoilers. Come on, if you have nothing to tell just write a single sentence telling us the book was good, worth reading, not good, not worth reading, you did not like it because..., you recommend it to other readers of the genre or you do not. Simple isn't it.
Now for the book I read complete waste of time. The book was long enough to force me to quit reading but the book nerd in me wanted to see how the author ends it. Their were too many fillers and too many sub-plots and too many characters and the romance between the two characters, oh! come on. And the ending too boring. Apologies to the three star plus good readers.
Now for the book I read complete waste of time. The book was long enough to force me to quit reading but the book nerd in me wanted to see how the author ends it. Their were too many fillers and too many sub-plots and too many characters and the romance between the two characters, oh! come on. And the ending too boring. Apologies to the three star plus good readers.
February 21, 2021
I don’t give low ratings lightly. A number of things bothered me about this book. There were too many characters introduced far too quickly. It was hard to keep them all straight. Mainly though, it felt like someone had put “mystery plot points” in a jar, shaken, and began pulling them out randomly one at a time and inserting them into the story. I gave this one 100 pages and then gave it up.
September 9, 2024
3.5 stars - So many twists, I felt like there was something new to the thriller with each chapter. Lots of characters, it takes a while to figure out who is who, but did not expect the end.
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