Character development was lacking...and it just seemed to fit a mold for serial killer novels.

I'm going over my backlog that I forgot to post on netgalley, sorry for the late posts.

This was an enjoyable read but honestly I felt like there maybe wasn't enough that separated it from other serial killer novels. It was fun, but there wasn't enough feeling for me.

(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)

A disturbing and gruesome serial killer is on the loose with a distinct calling card: after every murder, he stages his victim’s body with meticulous attention to detail—perfectly dressed, perfectly made-up, and pinned with the disconcerting message “NOT HER.” This serial killer won’t settle for anything less than perfection.
Forensics expert Ellen Harper is assigned to investigate the bizarre string of crimes. Reeling from a recent divorce, she channels her emotions and energy into protecting the women of Chicago from the deranged killer. To complicate matters, Brice Rogers, a good-looking detective with some issues of his own, is working the case at her side.
As the body count climbs, Ellen must attempt to conquer her own demons, piece together the workings of a mind born of hate, and find the murderer before he kills again. And again.

This was a good, fun read. Everything I expect from this genre was evident - good guy, bad guy, mystery, thrills, suspense...it was all there, in logical order, with little to no editing errors. Overall, in that aspect, it was a good story.

The issues I had were in character development - they were either plain and boring or were either neurotic or just the very best at everything - and there was no real clear direction for the plot. It felt like the really good idea that got us started was abandoned for a simpler, safer alternative halfway through.

If you are looking for a quick afternoon read, then this could be the book for you!


Paul
ARH