A review by cassiecat
Small Bones by Kerry Buchanan

mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

#2 in the Harvey and Birch series. 

My first book by this author which is set in Belfast. It reads well as a standalone, there are references to the previous case, but nothing that made me feel that I needed to have read them in order. 

It’s listed as a crime thriller, it’s not your standard police procedural, it’s more of a fusion with a domestic noir. It has a Belinda Bauer style feel about it, which is a compliment as I love her books. 

It grabbed my interest straight away    When Sue Hearn is digging over to make a herb garden in the old family home on the site that she remembers her grandfather erecting a greenhouse when she was a teenager. Sue finds human bones, small bones. 

The story is told in 2 timeframes December 1992 and the present. The main points of view are from Sue and Asha. 

There isn’t any duplication of information given between the time lines it all seamlessly evolves between the 2.   

The characters are well drawn. I especially like young Will. I like Asha the detective too, she has a gentle caring way about her. Lonnie seems to be the stations oracle and super efficient. 

I have to mention the partnership of Asha and Aaron, they make a great team, they get on really well, there’s some chemistry there too. 

The writing style is so easy to read. 

It has a healthy balance between  character and plot. There’s some gentle humour too. 

It really drew me in. So much going on, there are constant revelations and action which held my attention through out. It never fails to keep you guessing with the twists and turns.