A review by ejcoates
Devil Bones by Kathy Reichs

dark mysterious sad medium-paced

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

3.5

Having now read the first 11 Tempe Brennan books, I was perhaps most excited for Devil Bones. The plot sounded thrilling, but unfortunately this was not a favourite from the series for me. In particular, the beginning was a bit slow with too much time dedicated to outlining the history of the city where the novel is set. Also, I found the overall plot to be a little convoluted (sadly a common thread with this series ) but remain invested in the core characters.

Having studied forensic archaeology & anthropology at a postgraduate level, I have a good grounding in the science discussed. Oddly, this was the first time in the series where I felt outside readers may struggle to keep up at times. Even I had to pause at key points and consider the osteological features being described. 

 

I was gutted when Tempe relapsed. Reading these books feels like visiting old friends and this felt like a gut punch--a sign of how much I have come to care for the characters. Reichs is perhaps best when working with her core cast, rather than focussing on too many characters which can become confusing to follow <spoiler.>