Reviews

Criminal by Karin Slaughter

geauxgetlit's review against another edition

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5.0

So good!

vacantbones's review against another edition

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4.0

I can't believe it has been *this* long since I've taken a deep dive into the Will Trent series. Thankfully, Slaughter writes in a way that made me instantly remember the names of each of these characters, their connections, plots, etc..

Overall, I loved this one. Loved. There's some true progress in developing Will as a character (as well as his backstory), and Amanda as well. The 70s plot consisting of two women kicking ass was so rewarding for me, though it takes a while to dive into the story. And that ending? I gasped! Audibly! Karin, you crazy lady!

The only thing holding me back from giving this one a full 5 stars is how uncomfortable I was with the way Slaughter doesn't hold back from fully showcasing 70s policing in all its glory: corruption, nepotism, racism (complete with plenty of slurs to round the whole thing out), and violent sexism. I understand *why* this was done and respect the decision to not shy away from reality, but I do feel like it nears extreme levels that probably aren't entirely necessary to developing the plot.

jenniferbroach's review against another edition

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mysterious reflective sad tense

3.5

skynet666's review against another edition

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3.0

I listened to most of this book, but read some. I loved the story and characters, as always, but the back and forth between past and present was too much for me. It would have been better if it was just the past - too convoluted to bring in the present.

mallorygoldsmith's review against another edition

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emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

anslee's review against another edition

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4.5

I’m not sure why I didn’t finish this one last year, but I’m happy to have gotten it read at last. This book is so pivotal to understanding Will and Amanda’s relationship and I’m pissed at myself for not finishing it sooner. Also, the fact that the person Will is most like is Amanda is so clearly shown in this book. Karin Slaughter you never fail me.

kleblanc's review against another edition

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4.0

I thought the 1st half of this book was a little slow & confusing, but boy did it pick up. The ending was incredible. I loved how everything tied together, & how much more we found out about Will Trent's earlier life.

winemakerssister's review against another edition

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3.0

3.5 stars

I had a rough time with the first half or so - the huge information dump made it feel slow and depressing. The 2nd half got better, and I really appreciated learning more about Will's, Amanda's, and Evelyn's pasts.

hestia_nl's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

deniselk's review against another edition

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5.0

We learn more of Will's background.