chemistry of death book review

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

The Chemistry Of Death review: Packed with cliffhangers that will desperately leave you wanting more

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Let’s face it, The Chemistry Of Death is doing itself no favours with a title that sounds more like a death metal band or a niche Mastermind specialist subject.

But dig beneath its titular bones and what you get is a neat twist on the well-worn murder mystery thriller. In Norfolk.

The key player is Dr David Hunter, a forensic pathologist played with languidly bashful charm by Harry Treadaway.

Now forensic pathologists are 10-a-penny in crime dramas but this Dr Hunter is one of a kind, a world-leading authority on human decomposition no less.

Where Dexter could read blood spatter like a book, Hunter cracks cases with the help of the creepy crawlies that make their home in corpses. Well, it’s different.

What’s not so different is that Hunter is bugged by his own tragic past, seen via flashbacks, which explain why this pathology high-flier is now holed up working as a GP in a small Norfolk village.

But that’s a small nit to pick in a series that shines a light on a close-knit rural community in a much more authentic way than the likes of Midsomer Murders.

Based on the best-selling books by Simon Beckett, the plot is full of twists and cliffhangers which might explain why it’s dropping weekly rather than being released as a box set.

Still, it’s an odd move for a streaming service though, because The Chemistry Of Death would rank high on the litmus test for binge-ability.

So you’ll have to exercise patience as the truth behind a serial killer with a sick line in angel-wing symbolism worms its way to the surface.

But with Treadaway well cast as a man desperate to keep the real world at arm’s length and strong support from Jeanne Goursaud as love interest/potential next victim, The Chemistry Of Death is on to a winning formula.

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The Chemistry of Death by Simon Beckett

It's three years since Dr David Hunter abandoned his old life in London and moved to a Norfolk village after the death of his wife and young daughter. He's gone into partnership with the local GP who has been crippled in the car accident which killed his wife. In his old life Hunter was a forensic anthropologist but he's reluctant to be drawn into the investigation when a body is found in the village. His hand is forced when a second woman disappears from the village and it's obvious that there is a serial killer at large. He has to dredge up old memories and face the paranoia of the village as it realises that the killer must be one of them.

I lost yesterday. I picked this book up in the middle of the morning just to see if looked as though it would appeal to me. I finally put it down as I finished it yesterday evening and I've absolutely no idea what happened to the day. By the time I'd read the first page I was completely hooked. Simon Beckett is said to be in the mould of Patricia Cornwell, but I think that does him a disservice - he's far better, using facts which could be morbid to inform rather than horrify the reader. My own thought is that he's comparable with Kathy Reichs at her best and as this is his first novel there's a strong possibility that he's going to get better.

The central character, David Hunter, is sympathetic and appealing. His wife and young daughter have never really left him and whilst he's over the initial grief he's not yet ready to move on. His social life is limited to occasional trips to the local pub. He's a man folded up within himself, who's being forced into remembering old skills. There's a fine supporting cast too - one that will be familiar to anyone who knows village life - ranging from the fine and upstanding to the extreme and eccentric. Beckett has village life - and the Norfolk landscape to perfection.

The pace is gripping. It never lets up for a moment, but somehow never seems rushed. The main action takes place over a relatively short period of time and there's a real twist at the end that I wasn't expecting, despite the fact that all the clues are there. I was convinced that I knew whodunit - but I was completely wrong, as well as being terrified that all was not going to work out as it should. When I put the book down my heart was still racing.

If I have one mild concern about this book and the sequel which is to follow it's about the forensic aspect. It's not a subject which I have read in any depth but there was little there that was new to me and ultimately the solution to the crime didn't rest on forensic evidence. There is only so much that can be done with the same bugs and insects chomping at the body post-mortem and I do hope that Simon Beckett hasn't exhausted his store of knowledge on the subject.

It's still a damn good story though and I'd like to thank the publishers for sending this book to The Bookbag. We also have a review of Beckett's Stone Bruises .

If this type of book appeals to you, you might also enjoy The Edge by Clare Curzon, or Losing You by Nicci French, both of which are similarly fast-paced thrillers.

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Just send us an email and we'll put the best up on the site.

Trevor Dawson said:

Sounds like my sort of book, can't wait to read it and be gripped.

wheeliegirl73631 said:

After reading the book review of The Chemistry Of Death I can'T wait to start reading the book itself.I am a big fan of Kathy Reichs and any thriller with a forensic side.I have recently read Losing You by Nicci French which I read in almost one sitting.The different sides to Simon Becketts character David Hunter is appealing and I found the review to draw me into both the character and the plot.

purplevodka said:

Think Il have to put this on my "to buy" list - I love a book yoyu can lose a day to.

lisa2062 said:

I'm a huge fan of thrillers, especially the more faster paced ones. I find they are real page turners as opposed to ones who drag on with too much irrelevant information.

What's even more appealing is you say it's not obvious whodunit. This sounds similar in style to the PJ Tracy books which I'm enjoying at the moment, so will have to check out this one. Lisa

laurasteward said:

Sounds really good!

Beverley Kerry said:

This sounds like an interesting book. I love forensic crimes and thrillers but unfortunately the book is usually marred for me by my figuring out "whodunnit" by the middle of the story.

The personal involvement of the main character via the medium of having him face his own demons sounds like it would make an in-depth, meaty element instead of a straightforward story.

Probably not one I would have picked from the bookshelf for myself, but the review has made me commit the title to memory and I intend to look out for it.

marksinclair said:

Haven't read the book, but the review has certainly made me interested.With the resurgence of series like "Cold Cases" and "CSI: Miami/Los Angeles/New York" etc. the book should go down very well with readers.

tjhack said:

The chemistry of death? 02 - 02

jochrisbryan said:

Losing a day now thats my kind of time.

I love the description of David Hunter, by the reviewer.

At first I believed this would be a murder mystery that made me yawn, but I sat up as Kathy Reichs was brought in as a comparison.

Sounds to me as if I need to book that day very soon.

paulfoxton said:

Not to be confused with Samuel Beckett (the time traveller or the playwright) Simon Beckett takes the forensic genre to new heights taking it out of the city and into the country. Resplendent wiht characterisation of the greatest calibre and main protagonist David Hunter and all his baggage make this book one to read!

• Simon Beckett
• Reviewed by Sue Magee
• 4 Star Reviews

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Further Writing

THE CHEMISTRY OF DEATH

Publisher ‏ : ‎   Bantam (3 Sept. 2020)

Language ‏ : ‎   English

Paperback ‏ : ‎   448 pages

‘A dead bird had been tied to the stone. It was a mallard, bound with wire around its neck and feet. Uncertain whether to untie it, she leaned forward to examine the wire more closely.

The bird opened its eyes.’

When the bizarrely mutilated body of a young woman is found near the tiny isolated Norfolk village of Manham, it isn’t just the fact that she was a friend that disturbs Dr David Hunter. A one-time high-profile forensic anthropologist, he was once all too familiar with the different faces of death, until a devastating personal tragedy made him abandon his former life and career.

Now hidden away as a country doctor, Hunter had hoped his past would remain buried. So when he’s asked to use his arcane skills to help track down the killer, he’s reluctant to become involved. He knows to do so will only stir up the painful memories he’s been trying so hard to forget. But then another woman disappears, plunging Manham into a maelstrom of fear and paranoia where no one, not even Hunter, is exempt from suspicion. As the once peaceful community begins to tear itself apart, he knows he will need all his knowledge and expertise if the twisted killer is to be stopped…

A human body starts to decompose four minutes after death. The body, once the encapsulation of life, now undergoes its final metamorphoses. It begins to digest itself. Cells dissolve from the inside out. Tissue turns to liquid, then to gas. No longer animate, the body becomes an immoveable feast for other organisms. Bacteria first, then insects. Flies. Eggs are lain, then hatch. The larvae feed on the nutrient rich broth, and then migrate. They leave the body in orderly fashion, following each other in a neat procession that always heads south. South east or south west sometimes, but never north. No one knows why. By now the body’s muscle protein has broken down, producing a potent chemical brew. Lethal to vegetation, it kills the grass as the larvae crawl through it, forming an umbilical of death that extends back the way they came. In the right conditions – dry and hot, say, without rain – it can extend for yards, a wavering brown conga-line of fat yellow grubs. It’s a curious sight, and for the curious what could be more natural than to follow this phenomenon back to it’s source? Which was how the Yates boys found what was left of Sally Palmer.

Neil and Sam came across the maggot trail on the edge of Farnley Wood, where it borders the marsh. It was the second week of July, and already the unnatural summer seemed to have been going on forever. The heat seemed eternal, leeching the colour from the trees and baking the ground to the hardness of bone. The boys were on their way to Willow Hole, a reed pond that passed as the local swimming pool. They were meeting friends there, and would spend the Sunday afternoon bombing into the tepid green water from an overhanging tree. At least, so they thought. I see them as bored and listless, drugged by the heat and impatient with each other.

Neil, at eleven three years older than his brother, would be walking slightly ahead of Sam to demonstrate his impatience. There’s a stick in his hand, with which he whips the stalks and branches that he passes. Sam trudges along behind, sniffing from time to time. Not from a summer cold, but from the hay fever that also reddens his eyes. A mild antihistamine would help him, but at this stage he doesn’t know that. He always sniffs during summer. Always the shadow to his bigger brother, he walks with his head down, which is why he and not his brother notices the maggot trail.

He stops and examines it before shouting Neil back. Neil is reluctant, but Sam has obviously found something. He tries to act unimpressed, but the undulating line of maggots intrigues him just as much as it does his brother. The two of them crouch over the grubs, pushing dark hair out of similar faces and wrinkling their nose at the ammoniac smell. And though neither could later remember whose idea it was to see where they were coming from, I imagine it to be Neil’s. Having walked past the maggots himself, he would be keen to assert his authority once more. So it’s Neil who sets off first, heading towards the yellowed tufts of marsh grass from which the larvae are flowing, and leaving Sam to follow.

Did they notice the smell as they approached? Probably. It would be strong enough to cut through even Sam’s blocked sinuses. And they probably knew what it was. No city boys, these, they would be familiar with the cycle of life and death. The flies, too, would have alerted them, a somnambulant buzzing that seemed to fill the heat. But the body they discovered was not the sheep or deer, or even dog, they might have expected. Naked but unrecognisable in the sun, Sally Palmer was full of movement, a rippling infestation that boiled under her skin and erupted from mouth and nose, as well as the other less natural openings in her body. The maggots that spilled from her pooled on the ground before crawling away in the line that now stretched beyond the Yates boys. I don’t suppose it matters which one broke first, but I think it would be Neil. 

As ever, Sam would have taken his cue from his big brother, trying to keep up in a race that led them first home, then to the police station.

And then, finally to me.

As well as a mild sedative, I also gave Sam antihistamine to help his hay fever. By this time, though, he wasn’t the only one to have red eyes. Neil too was still shaken by their discovery, although now he was beginning to recover his juvenile poise. So it was he rather than Sam who told me what had happened, already starting to reduce the raw memory to a more acceptable form, a story to be told and retold. And later, when the tragic events of that preternaturally hot summer had run their course, years later Neil would be telling it still, forever identified as the one whose discovery had started it all.

But it hadn’t. It was just that, until then, we had never realised what was living among us.

‘Terrifying… Rarely have the mechanics of suspense been so effectively realized outside an Alfred Hitchcock movie.’

THE DAILY EXPRESS

‘Excellent… Plotted and written with panache, with high marks for shock value.’

‘Spine tinglingly frightening, but also poignant and caring.’

THE INDEPENDENT

‘Brilliant.’

DAILY MIRROR

‘The best thriller I’ve read all year.’

TESS GRRITSEN

‘Truly deserves the description “a real page turner.’

ROBERT GODDARD

‘Perfectly captures the claustrophobic horro of a rural community in a crisis…absolutely compelling and so deliciously scary.’

‘Tense and humane, a fascinating exploration of the hunterlands of horror.’

GOOD BOOK GUIDE

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The Chemistry of Death: (David Hunter 1): Harry Treadaway is Dr David Hunter: the darkly compelling new TV series ‘The Chemistry of Death’ – streaming now on Paramount+ Paperback – 3 Sept. 2020

* Don't miss 'THE CHEMISTRY OF DEATH' TV SERIES - now streaming on Paramount+ * Adapted from The Chemistry of Death and Written in Bone - starring Harry Treadaway as Dr David Hunter 'A classy debut' The Times 'Best thriller I've read all year' Tess Gerritsen Dr David Hunter hoped he might at last have put the past behind him. But then they found what was left of Sally Palmer . . . It isn't just that she was a friend that disturbs him. Once he'd been a high-profile forensic anthropologist and all too familiar with the many faces of death, before tragedy made him abandon this previous life. Now the police want his help. But to become involved will stir up memories he's long tried to forget. Then a second woman disappears, plunging the close-knit community into a maelstrom of fear and paranoia. And no one, not even Hunter, is exempt from suspicion. Gruesome and gripping, this startling new British crime thriller has an unnerving and original twist.

• Book 1 of 6 Dr David Hunter
• Print length 448 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Bantam
• Publication date 3 Sept. 2020
• Dimensions 12.7 x 2.7 x 19.8 cm
• ISBN-10 0857504568
• ISBN-13 978-0857504562
• See all details

From the Publisher

Product description

About the author.

Simon Beckett is the No.1 international bestselling author of the David Hunter series: The Chemistry of Death, Written in Bone, Whispers of the Dead , The Calling of the Grave, The Restless Dead and The Scent of Death. His books have been translated into 29 languages, appeared in the Sunday Times top 10 bestseller lists and sold over 10 million copies worldwide. A former freelance journalist, he has written for The Times , Daily Telegraph , Independent on Sunday and Observer. The inspiration for the first David Hunter novel came after a visit to the world-renowned Body Farm in Tennessee introduced him to the work of forensic anthropologists. Joint-winner (with Arne Dahl) of Europe’s largest crime fiction prize – the Ripper Award 2018/19 – he has also won the Raymond Chandler Society’s Marlowe Award and been short-listed for the CWA Gold Dagger, CWA Dagger in the Library and Theakston’s Crime Novel of the Year awards. He is also the author of several stand-alone novels including Stone Bruises and Where There's Smoke. Simon Beckett lives in Sheffield.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bantam (3 Sept. 2020)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 448 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0857504568
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0857504562
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 12.7 x 2.7 x 19.8 cm
• 5,720 in Crime, Thriller & Mystery Adventures
• 26,124 in Thrillers (Books)
• 26,315 in Mysteries (Books)

About the author

Simon beckett.

JOINT WINNER OF THE EUROPEAN CRIME FICTION STAR ‘RIPPER’ AWARD 2018/19

Simon Beckett is the No.1 International Bestselling author of the David Hunter series. His books have been translated into 29 languages, appeared in the Sunday Times Top 10 bestseller lists and sold over 10 million copies worldwide. A former freelance journalist who has written for The Times, The Daily Telegraph, The Independent on Sunday and The Observer, the inspiration for the first David Hunter novel came after a visit to the world-renowned Body Farm in Tennessee introduced him to the work of forensic anthropologists.

As well as co-winning the Ripper Award in 2018/19, the largest European crime prize, Simon has won the Raymond Chandler Society’s ‘Marlowe’ Award and been short-listed for the CWA Gold Dagger, CWA Dagger in the Library and Theakston’s Crime Novel of the Year.

In addition to the six David Hunter titles, the most recent of which is The Scent of Death, he has written five standalone novels, one of which, Where There’s Smoke, was adapted into a major ITV two-part drama.

Find out more on www.simonbeckett.com, or follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

"Simon Beckett’s sixth novel featuring the forensic anthropologist David Hunter is arguably his best . . . a superbly strong read." (Marcel Berlins THE TIMES)

“Brilliantly original ... Simon’s first crime novel The Chemistry of Death absolutely blew me away and he just gets better by the book!" (PETER JAMES)

"A satisfyingly dark and twisting thriller." (MAIL ON SUNDAY)

"An arresting setup . . . Beckett has regained his best form . . . the exigencies of a macabre investigative thriller are dispatched with characteristic aplomb." (Barry Forshaw FINANCIAL TIMES)

"Beckett's masterful storytelling and macabre forensic details make his novels utterly chilling reads." (TESS GERRITSEN)

"The forensics are chillingly authentic, the writing is both taut and beautifully atmospheric.’ (ANN CLEEVES)

‘Terrifying… Rarely have the mechanics of suspense been so effectively realized outside an Alfred Hitchcock movie.’ (THE DAILY EXPRESS)

‘Beckett is one of the country’s best crime writers… His books are intelligent, beautifully written and utterly gripping.’ (THE SUNDAY EXPRESS)

Customer reviews

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Customers say

Customers find the book well-written and a terrific read. They also like the build of characters and the content, describing it as fascinating and accurate. Readers describe the storyline as gripping, engaging, and real. They mention that parts make grim reading, but the novel manages to go at a steady pace.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the storyline compelling, gripping, and engaging. They also say the characters are very real and sympathetic. They mention that parts make grim reading, but the description paints a graphic picture. Readers also say that the crime scenes are vivid and the novel goes at quite a pace.

"...The descriptions, both of the setting and of the crime scenes, were so vivid that I could easily imagine myself there either enjoying the beautiful..." Read more

"...The plot was good and I liked that after two of the victims were just found, we heard more about the other victim's captivity and gumption...." Read more

"...The whole story was fantastic but the last few chapters and the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat and I couldn't wait to turn to the..." Read more

"...It has all the suspense, twists and turns of an enjoyable thriller , however these are actually understated because it's the strength of the writing..." Read more

Customers find the writing quality of the book well-written, brilliant, and rhythmic. They also say the author knows how to pace the story in an attractive way.

"...Dr David Hunter is a very interesting, clever and fabulous character, and thankfully, for once, he's not a detective or inspector...." Read more

"...I enjoyed the writing and descriptions , it could have been a mini TV crime drama over 4 episodes, I could see the scenery and characters...." Read more

"...Because of the authors brilliant writing you really feel you know the characters ...." Read more

"...of the writing that drives the momentum of the story, making this a great read . An absolute pleasure in fact, 5 stars." Read more

Customers like the characters in the book. They also appreciate the build of the characters.

"...Dr David Hunter is a very interesting, clever and fabulous character , and thankfully, for once, he's not a detective or inspector...." Read more

"...The sense of place is very good in this well written book with some terrific characters , it is dark yet not overtly graphic...." Read more

"...of tea to begin with, but I did like the language, I did like the build of characters ...." Read more

"...I did, however, find the characters slightly stereotypical - mysterious haunted male lead, cantankerous village vicar, uncouth village thug,..." Read more

Customers find the book's content fascinating, detailed, and gripping. They also say the forensic element is mildly interesting. However, some readers feel the book is too formulaic and bland.

"...Dr David Hunter is a very interesting , clever and fabulous character, and thankfully, for once, he's not a detective or inspector...." Read more

"...& has used it as the basis for the plot, giving some very interesting insights into the science ...." Read more

"...The novel manages to go at quite a pace and builds in quite a lot of forensic detail , whilst letting you get to know Dr David Hunter as well as..." Read more

"Great story, an interesting perspective into the two very different sides of this complex individual...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the plot. Some find it to be a page-turner, while others say it's unbelievable, implausible, and overcooked.

"From the first page of book one, l was hooked and every book was a page turner . Just got not put the books down!..." Read more

"...Then there is the ending. Totally implausible , with one baddy who hadn't previously said a single word but had somehow eluded police scrutiny during..." Read more

"...a hat' and loved the relaxed writing style which made for an easy but page turning read ...." Read more

"...This is, indeed, a page-turner ...." Read more

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The Chemistry of Death Paperback – June 14 2022

Purchase options and add-ons.

Seeking refuge from a tragic past, a forensic pathologist must search for a devious killer in a rural English village in this crime thriller series debut.

Three years ago, Dr. David Hunter left London for rural Norfolk to escape the tragic loss of his wife and daughter. Giving up his career in criminal forensics, he now works as a simple country doctor in the village of Manham. But when the corpse of a woman is found in the woods, a macabre sign from her killer decorating her body, David struggles to remain uninvolved. As a newcomer, David finds he must join the investigation in order to avoid suspicion.

When another woman disappears, the case becomes personal. This time, she is someone David knows--someone who has managed to get past the barrier around his heart. With the killer's twisted methods screaming out to him and a brooding countryside beset with fear and distrust, David can feel the darkness gathering around him. As the clock ticks down on the young woman's life, David must follow a macabre trail of clues--all the way to its final, horrifying conclusion.

"Brilliantly original . . . Simon's first crime novel The Chemistry of Death absolutely blew me away and he just gets better by the book!" --Peter James, UK No. 1 bestselling author

• Print length 298 pages
• Language English
• Publication date June 14 2022
• Dimensions 15.24 x 1.91 x 22.86 cm
• ISBN-10 1504076168
• ISBN-13 978-1504076166
• See all details

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Product description

Praise for Simon Beckett

"Simon Beckett's sixth novel featuring the forensic anthropologist David Hunter is arguably his best." -- The Times (London)

"A satisfyingly dark and twisting thriller." -- The Mail on Sunday

"An arresting setup . . . Beckett has regained his best form . . . the exigencies of a macabre investigative thriller are dispatched with characteristic aplomb." -- Financial Times

"Beckett's masterful storytelling and macabre forensic details make his novels utterly chilling reads" --Tess Gerritsen, author of New York Times- bestseller Harvest

"The forensics are chillingly authentic, the writing is both taut and atmospheric." --Anne Cleeves, bestselling author of the Vera Stanhope series

"Terrifying . . . Rarely have the mechanics of suspense been so effectively realized outside an Alfred Hitchcock movie." -- Daily Express

"Beckett is one of the country's best crime writers . . . His books are intelligent, beautifully written and utterly gripping." --Sunday Express

About the Author

Simon Beckett is the international bestselling author of the David Hunter thrillers. His books have been translated into twenty-nine languages, appeared in the Sunday Times Top 10 bestseller list, and sold more than ten million copies worldwide. A former freelance journalist who has written for the Times , the Daily Telegraph , the Independent on Sunday and the Observer , Beckett's inspiration for the first David Hunter novel came after a visit to the world-renowned Body Farm in Tennessee introduced him to the work of forensic anthropologists.

As well as co-winning the Ripper Award in 2018/19, the largest European crime prize, Beckett won the Raymond Chandler Society's 'Marlowe' Award and was shortlisted for the CWA Gold Dagger, CWA Dagger in the Library, and Theakston's Old Peculiar Crime Novel of the Year.

In addition to his David Hunter series, Beckett has written five standalone novels, one of which, Where There's Smoke , was adapted into a major two-part drama.

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Open Road Integrated Media, Inc. (June 14 2022)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 298 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1504076168
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1504076166
• Item weight ‏ : ‎ 440 g
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 15.24 x 1.91 x 22.86 cm
• #6,194 in British & Irish Literature
• #10,004 in Serial Killer Thrillers
• #13,358 in Psychological Thrillers (Books)

About the author

Simon beckett.

JOINT WINNER OF THE EUROPEAN CRIME FICTION STAR ‘RIPPER’ AWARD 2018/19

Simon Beckett is the No.1 International Bestselling author of the David Hunter series. His books have been translated into 29 languages, appeared in the Sunday Times Top 10 bestseller lists and sold over 10 million copies worldwide. A former freelance journalist who has written for The Times, The Daily Telegraph, The Independent on Sunday and The Observer, the inspiration for the first David Hunter novel came after a visit to the world-renowned Body Farm in Tennessee introduced him to the work of forensic anthropologists.

As well as co-winning the Ripper Award in 2018/19, the largest European crime prize, Simon has won the Raymond Chandler Society’s ‘Marlowe’ Award and been short-listed for the CWA Gold Dagger, CWA Dagger in the Library and Theakston’s Crime Novel of the Year.

In addition to the six David Hunter titles, the most recent of which is The Scent of Death, he has written five standalone novels, one of which, Where There’s Smoke, was adapted into a major ITV two-part drama.

Find out more on www.simonbeckett.com, or follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

"Simon Beckett’s sixth novel featuring the forensic anthropologist David Hunter is arguably his best . . . a superbly strong read." (Marcel Berlins THE TIMES)

“Brilliantly original ... Simon’s first crime novel The Chemistry of Death absolutely blew me away and he just gets better by the book!" (PETER JAMES)

"A satisfyingly dark and twisting thriller." (MAIL ON SUNDAY)

"An arresting setup . . . Beckett has regained his best form . . . the exigencies of a macabre investigative thriller are dispatched with characteristic aplomb." (Barry Forshaw FINANCIAL TIMES)

"Beckett's masterful storytelling and macabre forensic details make his novels utterly chilling reads." (TESS GERRITSEN)

"The forensics are chillingly authentic, the writing is both taut and beautifully atmospheric.’ (ANN CLEEVES)

‘Terrifying… Rarely have the mechanics of suspense been so effectively realized outside an Alfred Hitchcock movie.’ (THE DAILY EXPRESS)

‘Beckett is one of the country’s best crime writers… His books are intelligent, beautifully written and utterly gripping.’ (THE SUNDAY EXPRESS)

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The Chemistry of Death

Simon beckett, . . delacorte, $22 (313pp) isbn 978-0-385-34004-5.

Reviewed on: 07/17/2006

Genre: Fiction

Hardcover - 525 pages - 978-0-7862-9349-0

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‘Chemistry Of Death’ Ending, Explained: Who Killed Maggie, Duncan, & Kelly Ann? Will There Be A Season 2?

“Chemistry of Death” was a series with the potential to be engaging with a fresh take on the thriller genre, as seen through the grim lens of a forensic expert. Based on the best-selling novels of the same name, we had assumed that the six episodes would encompass the narrative of the three books: “Chemistry of Death,” “Written in Bone,” and “Whispers of the Dead.” However, the episodes covered just the first two books, and that would have been okay if it had worked better on its pacing. The first book was done in two episodes, whereas the second took four, and neither was as interesting as it could have been. We were hopeful for a moment because we anticipated speed from “Chemistry of Death” Season 1, which would have made a very generic concept somewhat thrilling. But the writers just teased us with it and then dragged out the rest of the narrative. We still haven’t forgiven them for omitting a proper explanation of the staging of the corpses in the first case. What should have been done was to keep the episodes at half an hour each and dedicate three episodes to each case because that was all the substance there was. 

We criticize the length of shows and movies a lot, talking about the parts that need not have been there. Hence, we feel the need to clarify our stance on it. Every bit and subplot need not be a part of the narrative, but it must at least be interesting, and if it does not add to the plot, it must add to the atmosphere and tone of the movie or series. Even more importantly, the atmosphere and world-building must balance or elevate the central plot. A recent example that comes to mind is “ Wednesday ,” where the subplots dominated the episodes, but each one of them pushed the mystery and the character development of the protagonist, making them relevant and engaging for the audience. “Chemistry of Death” focuses too much on the atmosphere and too little on everything else, making it a bit of a snooze-fest. Now that it has come to an end let us go through everything that happens in “Chemistry of Death” Episodes 5 and 6.

New Murders And The Growing Storm

We saw that David Hunter was stuck inside the burning clinic at the end of “Chemistry of Death” Episode 4 . At the beginning of the fifth episode, he is rescued just in time. He tells Sergeant Fraser that the killer is still on the island, which immediately alerts her to look for Duncan. Unfortunately, they find him burned to death in the van. The sergeant is devastated, but David, as shocked as he is, starts inspecting the body. He finds that Duncan was hit on the head, which indicates that he was either caught by surprise or knew the killer. The officers need help from the mainland, but all communication is down. Therefore, they decide to ask the fishermen if they could use their radios to get help. But the fishermen have come to know from Sergeant Fraser that the corpse in the cottage was a murder victim, and they are miffed with the police for leaving them to fight the fire by themselves. Fraser is forced to tell them about Duncan being burned to death, which finally brings to light the severity of the situation for the islanders.

Captain Kinross tries to help the officers, but the storm has made communication nearly impossible for anyone. But Fraser and David notice signs of people living in the ships. The captain and the rest of the fishermen try to explain it away, but suspicion has set in. The characters have a truly tedious day with nothing getting done because of the weather. However, later that night, Michael comes looking for David, saying that he cannot find Grace. We don’t understand why he came to David for that, or maybe he came to visit Ellen and just happened to tell David when she called him to help. We don’t know what to say except that the way these characters act is shrouded in mysteries we are finding hard to care about.

Either way, David looks for Grace and finds her about to jump off a ledge, and she is clearly suicidal. He brings her back by telling her about the loss of his family and how he struggles to move forward. Honestly, this conversation should have been a major clue for him, as it clearly pointed towards a woman on the verge of madness. Yet he looked past it at literally nothing for no particular reason. He brings her back to her house, where he tends to her wound. Maggie comes to meet Grace to get some more quotes for the disaster at the clinic but runs into Michael instead and brings up Siobhan Williams, who was his ex.

As the officers and David discuss how to proceed with the investigation in light of the lack of help, they decide to confirm their suspicions that the fishermen are hiding something. As Sergeant Fraser creates a distraction, David gets on the abandoned boat to check for evidence, which is when he spots a fire in the distance. He and the officers immediately leave to check the spot, and to their horror, they find Maggie tied up inside. Before they can help, the fire engulfs her, burning Maggie to death.

Who Were The Fishermen Hiding?

The fishermen were hiding immigrants who needed a safe passageway across the island. Since Maggie’s death, police vigilance has increased on the island, and that places the captain and the fishermen at a greater risk of discovery. They decided to impose a curfew so that people would be confined to their homes, and they could avoid falling into the purview of suspicion. They advise the islanders not to set foot outside of their homes, owing to the killer who is still among them.

While Kevin and Mary tend to the sick immigrants, they are finally discovered by Sergeant Fraser. She asks them about Kelly Ann and they tell her that she used to deliver the fake passports once they were done. Fraser suspects that Captain Kinross must be the killer. When Kevin goes to meet his dad, he finds him packing everything in a hurry. Captain Kinross tells him that the supplier of the passports has been arrested, and the police will be coming for them next. Kevin refuses to leave, which finally makes him understand that his son might have been the one who revealed the truth to the police. Captain Kinross was definitely an abusive father, which we come to know when he calls his son “weak” and “just as stupid as his mother.” Kevin asks him whether he had anything to do with Kelly Ann’s death, and Kinross just tells him that asking the question means that he does not trust him. What is it with men expecting trust from the people they treat the worst?

‘Chemistry of Death’ Ending Explained: Who killed Maggie, Duncan, and Kelly Ann?

Meanwhile, Michael goes to meet Ellen, who tells him about the curfew on the island. It is surprising to us that he had no idea about it. Later, David and Andrew find a bruised and battered Grace in her house, and she blames Michael for it. David, Fraser, and Andrew believe that Michael might be behind the murders and arrest him after placing Grace in the hotel with Ellen. When they take him to his house, he denies ever having harmed Grace, and when he comes to know that she is in the hotel, he tells them finally that she was the one to kill Siobhan, and now, Ellen might be in danger. True to his suspicions, Grace is indeed threatening Ellen and holding Anna at knifepoint. She believes that she needs to take her life but is scared to “go alone,” and David offers himself. We can tell that the events right from the first episode have only exacerbated David’s trauma, so he might be serious about wanting to die at Grace’s hands. However, at the last moment, Michael comes in and is stabbed by Grace.

The situation is dire, not just because of an injured Michael but because the gas is leaking in the kitchen. As they frantically look for a key, Michael asks for some moments with Grace. He has a lighter in hand, which means that he might want to kill himself along with her. He reveals that Grace was his sister all along. The key is found, and the gas is turned off, but by the time the officers come back inside, they find that Grace has escaped, leaving a dead Michael behind. The case of the death of Maggie is solved when David receives a voicemail from Duncan, telling him that Kelly Ann was his senior at school, and she was named Becky then. This helps David connect the dots, and he figures out that Becky was killed by Andrew, who also killed Duncan to cover his tracks.

When confronted with it, he reveals that Becky’s death was an accident that happened when he just wanted to teach her a lesson. He had killed Duncan because the latter had figured out that Andrew was the killer, and he couldn’t afford to ruin his legacy. Having confessed to his crimes, Andrew jumps off the cliff and commits suicide. With the murders solved, Michael returns to the mainland and is seemingly trying to move on with Jenny. He tries to tell her that he wants to return to his old job, which is forensics, when he hears a knock on the door. He finds Grace outside, and without warning, she stabs him and leaves. Grace undoubtedly blames him for the death of Michael, and this might have been her revenge.

What To Expect From ‘Chemistry of Death’ Season 2?

If there is a “Chemistry of Death” Season 2, we figure it would follow the third book, “Whispers of the Dead,” and simultaneously try to find Grace. We also want to see David Hunter get better. He has suffered too many traumas, and it is time for him to start healing them. His and Jenny’s relationship might progress further, so that could come with its own set of complications. Either way, the most important thing for “Chemistry of Death” is to really pace the series as per the pulse of the audience. We will repeat what we said earlier: the story has potential; it just needs to be written according to the sensibilities of the changing times, and we truly hope that happens sooner rather than later.

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The Chemistry of Death

In the third thrilling installment of this award winning series from New York Times bestseller Rebecca Cantrell, tortured genius Joe Tesla is on the trail of a sadistic serial killer who charms his victims into the bowels of the Manhattan subway system–and who holds the keys to Joe’s crippling condition.

Can Joe stop the murderous rampage of this silver-tongued killer, or will he become the next victim?

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“Truly excellent, the best Tesla story to date. Beautifully written, with a fantastic lead in the vulnerable and charismatic Joe; we get an action packed mystery and a hunt for a killer…a lovely mix of science and technology, with a dash of reality. It is unusual and wonderfully unique. I can believe in this world and it shows what a talent Rebecca Cantrell has. Absolutely fantastic! I look forward to more Joe Tesla in the future.” — Northern Crime

“I tore through the book in no time what so ever in my desperation to get to the end and find out what would happen…. and would there be more…..I highly recommend this series to thriller fans, it really is great action packed, tense writing.” — Parmenion Books

“This book is chilling, and oh so well written.” — A Lovely Little Book Blog

“A fascinating story that puts you in the minds of both Joe and a killer…leaves me wanting more.” — Mystery Suspense Reviews

“Okay this is a stay-home-from-work, stay-on-the-couch, under a comfy throw kind of awesome. I read this book from beginning to end with a break for one work telephone call that I couldn’t put off…You will love Edison and Joe and his amazing place in the tunnels…I really want to visit again. When is book four coming out?” — KC Berliner

“This novel was intense. In this volume, Joe and Edison are in pursuit of a serial killer using the New York subway tunnels as his own personal, macabre playground. Joe has to work fast to bring this killer to justice – because he just might be next on the list…Rebecca writes these characters with such depth and emotion, she makes the reader care about their story…I find myself bringing these ‘people’ into conversations with friends as if I had spoken to them only the day before about some pressing world topic. I can think of no greater gift to receive from an author.” — Su An Thompson

“Tautly written and rich in colorful imagery, this is the best book in the Tesla series to date…In this installment we find our hero again trapped in his underground world being stalked by a serial killer. Driven by an attachment to the to Christian Dior classic red lipstick color 999, the killer searches for his victims and drags them underground where his world and Joe’s are fated to collide. I can guarantee that you will enjoy being dragged into Joe’s world as he searches for the killer and then want to head outside for a breath of fresh air and some sunshine.” — The English Major

Lovely series review over at A Thrill a Week .

THE CHEMISTRY OF DEATH

Rebecca Cantrell

October 27, last year

Tunnel near Platform 6

Under Grand Central Terminal

Ziggy smiled when the woman’s designer shoes slipped on the train ties. Those shoes were at home in the expensive club where he’d picked her up, but they were worse than useless down here in the subway tunnels.

He caught her ice-cold arm. He’d made sure she’d forgotten her coat when they left the club, and he knew he must feel warm to her, warm and safe. She would trust him. She let him steady her for a heartbeat before pulling away.

“Watch the third rail.” He pointed to the raised metal track that ran along the inside rail. “It’s dangerous.”

“I want to go back.” Her lower lip quivered, and she tucked it between even, white teeth. The drug was already affecting her. He’d given her a high dose because she hated the tunnels more than any other woman he’d brought down here.

“Put on more lipstick.” He held his breath, wondering if the drug had kicked in enough for her to comply. “You’ll feel better when you look better.”

She fumbled in her expensive purse and pulled out a hand mirror. She angled the mirror to catch the faint light. Her movements were clumsy but practiced.

Without looking, she pulled a shiny black tube from her purse. He knew the lipstick’s color even before she opened it.

Christian Dior 999. Classic red.

She pulled off the cap and twisted the base. He breathed in the lipstick’s heady perfume. The scent took him back to other lipsticks, other women, and how his mother had forced him to wear dresses and Christian Dior 999 lipstick when he was a little boy to punish him. He remembered how he had looked in the mirror in her high heels and long skirts, how the lipstick smelled on his own lips, the soapy taste of it.

He took a deep breath to ground himself back in this moment, this tunnel, this woman. He was in charge here.

With a trembling hand, she slid the lipstick across her full lips. He wanted to touch the gleaming redness, and he clenched the slippery lining of his pockets to keep his hands from reaching for her. These lips weren’t for kissing.

She dropped the case back inside her purse and straightened her slim shoulders. Her breasts pushed against the thin fabric of her dress. The sharp tang of vodka from her cosmopolitan obliterated the last traces of the lipstick’s delicate fragrance.

“Do you feel better now?” he asked.

Wide eyes stared back into his. “What’s wrong with your v-voice?”

“Nothing.” He dropped his voice back to its normal register, the one he used everywhere but here. Only in the dark tunnels under New York could he let the other voice go. But not yet.

She pulled her arm out of his grip. He let her. The drug would ensure her compliance. Even without it, she was too afraid of the dark to venture far.

She was so miserable. It was good of him to help her. He wished that someone would help him. He needed someone to be a friend to him like he was to her.

“It’s easy to get turned around down here.” He pointed to his right. “The platform is that way.”

That way was a dead end, but he doubted that she’d remember where he pointed anyway. The alcohol and his drug slowed her thinking. Her eyes darted back and forth, as if she might see something to show her what to do. She’d find no breadcrumbs in this deserted tunnel.

He rumpled his hair with one hand and smiled, showing his dimples. Women always relaxed at his boyish grin. “Come along with me?”

“Is it far?” She sounded like a little girl. Tremulous, uncertain, and trusting.

“Not far.” He wrapped an arm around her shoulders, and she leaned into his warmth. He stroked her cold arm, knowing how she would welcome the heat.

Together, they walked along the tracks. Her high heels clacked against the wooden train ties, but his dress shoes were silent. Nobody down here to notice either way, not at this time of night.

They were alone, but then, everyone was always alone. He never felt lonely down here. Aboveground he went to the crowded clubs and worked in a busy office. Surrounded by people, but always alone.

He would have been even more alone had anyone recognized his nature. He should have been cast out, a bad seed. He’d have cast himself out, but he lacked the nerve. So he helped others to do what he could not.

Her scream interrupted his thoughts. A rat stood on the tracks, not giving ground. Its black eyes glinted in the overhead light, and its sharp nose rose to sniff the air. It didn’t budge at the noise.

“It’s New York,” he said. “Rats everywhere.”

Humans had done that. They’d built a perverted world that was perfect for rats, better for rats than for men.

She stood rigid with one slender hand clamped across her red lips.

He bent and picked up a stone, but the rat melted into the shadows before he threw it. The rat feared him. In a lot of ways, rats were smarter than people.

They set off down the track. He put his arm around her shoulders again. Her movements were unsteady, her motor coordination compromised. He kept her upright and moving deeper into the tunnels.

“Your last boyfriend never took you on this kind of adventure, I bet.” He worked to use his regular voice. “He didn’t plan much, did he?”

She shook her head. “Slade was busy.”

He cupped her elbow. The skin was surprisingly rough. “You make time for important things. Important people.”

“I wasn’t important to him.” She lurched to a stop and looked up at him. Her pupils had dilated so much he could barely tell what color her eyes were. Maybe blue? “Not ever.”

“Why do you think that’s true?” He tucked a strand of long, blond hair behind her ear. She’d begun to look messy. That he could not abide.

“Because I wasn’t worth anything to him.” She saw herself clearly, probably for the first time. Friends and family always tried to talk a person through these moments, teach them lies to give them hope. But these dark moments had a bitter truth to them that was more potent than a thousand moments of false hope.

“Surely you’re worth something to others?” He squeezed her against his side. She was so tiny, barely larger than a child.

“To you, maybe?” Her voice quivered.

“It’s too soon for that.” He loosened his hold on her, but kept her close. “Plenty of other people love you. Your family. Your mother. Your father.”

Her face sagged. Her mother had died when she was a teenager, and her father had disowned her when she left their small religious town to seek her fortune in New York. He’d overheard her life story in the club where he’d picked her.

“Just Slade. And I drove him away.”

She might have driven him away, but it was Slade who had changed the locks on their shared apartment and left her neatly packed bags with the doorman. She came home from work to the doorman’s smirking face and a locked apartment door. So she’d dropped the suitcases in her office, changed, and gone out clubbing.

Ziggy had met her at his third club. She clearly needed someone and was willing to trade sex for a moment’s connection. Ziggy had taken over.

“There are more people in the world than Slade,” he said.

“Not for me.” She looked down at the buckles on her ruined red shoes. “What’s wrong with me?”

“Did Slade say anything was wrong with you?”

“We’d still be together if he didn’t see something wrong with me. See some giant flaw.”

“What did he see?” Ziggy put his hand on the small of her back and guided her forward, faster now. He had a train to catch.

“I don’t know,” she whispered. “But they all see it. My mother. My father. Now Slade.”

“There’s nothing wrong with you?” He raised his voice at the end, turning it into a question instead of a reassurance as he pulled her close. She trembled in his arms, scared, cold, and drugged.

“Yes, there is.” Tears ran down her cheeks, mixed with mascara. “What am I doing wrong?”

She was a beautiful, broken doll. He hoped her face wouldn’t be marred. “Maybe you aren’t doing anything wrong.”

She twitched at the sound of his voice. It had come out high-pitched again, like an excited child’s. He couldn’t force it back into its usual register. They were almost there. The voice had to come out.

“I’ve done something wrong,” she whispered. “I must have. Or else why would everyone run away from me? Why am I alone?”

“What’s wrong with a life lived alone?” he whispered back.

She dropped her head against his shoulder, and again, he smelled her lipstick. “Everything.”

The metal track vibrated against the toe of his Oxford. He didn’t have much time.

“You can live alone for years and years. Get old alone. Die alone,” he said.

She sagged against him. “I have to find someone.”

She tipped her head up toward him again and searched his eyes for hope. He didn’t give her any. “Won’t the next man turn away from you? Like your father? Like Slade?”

The train rattled closer, but she acted as if she didn’t hear it.

“He didn’t even say good-bye.” Ziggy let go of her, knowing how cold she’d feel when he stepped away, the dank tunnel air replacing the warmth where his body had pressed against hers.

He clutched her purse and its valuable contents in one hand.

Goose bumps rose on her chest and neck, and she wrapped her arms around herself in a lonely hug. Her lips moved as she repeated the last words he’d given her. “He didn’t even say good-bye.”

Ziggy backed into the darkness of the tunnel so he couldn’t be seen by anyone but her. So far as the train operator would see, she was alone on the tracks. His heart danced in anticipation. It was like Christmas morning, and he was a young boy looking at the gaudily wrapped boxes, ready to tear open the paper and discover the real treasure underneath.

“Stay,” he said, and she nodded her head like the good girl she was.

The headlights of the oncoming train illuminated her fragile form. Her silvery dress sparkled like tinsel, and her golden hair glowed like a halo. Tears glistened on alabaster cheeks. She was radiant.

White showed around her irises when she looked forward into the light, but he knew she would not jump away. Fear would pin her there. At first, he’d thought they feared the train, but now he knew differently.

They feared the light.

Brakes shrieked. Sparks flew from the tracks, skittered over the ground, and winked out. The driver was braking on instinct and prayer, but the car would not stop in time. Physics always trumped faith.

If Ziggy looked, he knew he’d see the driver’s face trapped in a rictus of horror. He didn’t look. Her death shouldn’t be seen as a horrible event. It was liberation.

The car slammed into her bright body and thundered yards down the track. The car took the light with it, and welcome darkness enveloped him. Bliss coursed through his veins. He threw back his head and moaned his ecstasy to the screaming brakes.

The air pulled in the wake of the hard metal cars stroked his cheeks, forced his eyes closed. He swayed back against the hard wall. The stone anchored him, and he didn’t fall. He took one shuddering breath and then another.

She’d been everything he’d hoped.

His ears rang in the sudden silence. The car had shuddered to a stop. When he opened his eyes, the red taillight shone on the spot where she’d stood. He had to leave her soon, but first he needed to see her one last time.

He crept from pillar to pillar. His shoes made no sound on the sharp stones.

Her broken body hadn’t left the tracks. Sometimes, they were thrown clear, and he could have one last look, but not today. The subway cars hid her from him, but he could smell the rich, coppery scent of her blood.

With a pneumatic whoosh, the door opened. The driver stumbled out and retched next to the tracks. Shakily, he stood again.

Ziggy melted into the darkness before the man’s smells could overtake him. He caressed the purse, the leather as smooth as her skin, the lipstick within practically glowing.

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Book Review: The Chemistry of Death by Rebecca Cantrell

Posted June 4, 2020 by lomeraniel in Audiobooks , Mystery , Review , Science-Fiction , Thriller / 0 Comments

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me...or can they? In the third thrilling installment of this award winning series from New York Times bestseller Rebecca Cantrell, tortured genius Joe Tesla is on the trail of a sadistic serial killer who charms his victims into the bowels of the Manhattan subway system--and who holds the keys to Joe's crippling condition. Can Joe stop the murderous rampage of this silver-tongued killer, or will he become the next victim?

I am an unconditional fan of this series. If the first two books were good, this is even better. Joe Tesla is a rich entrepreneur that is doomed to live in the tunnels of the metro of New York due to his agoraphobia, a condition that only has been present for some months. Developer and owner of some complex identification algorithms, he is trying to find what changed in his brain chemistry to make him scared of open spaces. Tesla is a smart man and can fight on several fronts at the same time. While looking for a root cause and a solution, he is also trying to make his life underground better just in case he can never solve his problem. While he is keeping himself occupied on both fronts, a new mystery dwells in his tunnels: a man is killing women with a similar profile, and Tesla finds, by accident, an expensive purse and a lipstick in a locked room in one of the tunnels.

For the ones hooked to this series, like me, this is the book that we all were expecting. It is not only a new mystery that Joe must solve, but many of the questions from the beginning of the series will have some answers here. This is not the only charm of this book, as the new mystery is cleverly built from the start, with some hidden details and gripping action. I have to say that I couldn’t stop listening, and I blame obligations and life in general for not allowing me to enjoy this book in one listen. Absolutely thrilling and addictive.

I see there is a fourth book, but this one could have very well been the conclusion. The story arc and series arc are resolved satisfactorily with an ending that I could live with. I understand that there is life after this, and I guess this is where the fourth book comes into play.

Jeffrey Kaffer’s narration was simply perfect, as always. He really became Joe Tesla, while also voicing the different characters with subtle nuances to make dialogs a breeze to follow. Kaffer adds value to the book without distracting from the text. He brings the characters to life with heartfelt interpretations, perfect diction, and steady rhythm.

I am looking forward to the fourth book to see what happens next. I believe Tesla’s life will still have many surprises for us.

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My name is Elena. Since I was a little child I loved science fiction and fantasy, and I can’t resist a good novel. In 2015, while wait I started to listen to audiobooks and I discovered the pleasure in being able to read while doing my daily tasks, so there’s always an audiobook playing on my phone. If you see me with my Bluetooth headphones on, please be gentle, I get easily startled.

I live with my boyfriend, which I met during my six-year stay in Belgium, four cockatiels, eight lovebirds, and a hamster in Madrid, Spain; and I like to spend my free time knitting and sewing while listening to audiobooks.

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The Chemistry of Death: (David Hunter 1): The skin-crawlingly frightening David Hunter thriller Paperback – September 3, 2020

'A classy debut' The Times 'Best thriller I've read all year' Tess Gerritsen Dr David Hunter hoped he might at last have put the past behind him. But then they found what was left of Sally Palmer . . . It isn't just that she was a friend that disturbs him. Once he'd been a high-profile forensic anthropologist and all too familiar with the many faces of death, before tragedy made him abandon this previous life. Now the police want his help. But to become involved will stir up memories he's long tried to forget. Then a second woman disappears, plunging the close-knit community into a maelstrom of fear and paranoia. And no one, not even Hunter, is exempt from suspicion. Gruesome and gripping, this startling new British crime thriller has an unnerving and original twist.

• Book 1 of 6 Dr David Hunter
• Print length 448 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Bantam
• Publication date September 3, 2020
• Dimensions 5 x 1.06 x 7.8 inches
• ISBN-10 0857504568
• ISBN-13 978-0857504562
• See all details

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Bantam (September 3, 2020)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 448 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0857504568
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0857504562
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 10.7 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 1.06 x 7.8 inches
• #33,388 in Murder Thrillers
• #91,117 in Suspense Thrillers
• #503,874 in Genre Literature & Fiction

About the author

Simon beckett.

JOINT WINNER OF THE EUROPEAN CRIME FICTION STAR ‘RIPPER’ AWARD 2018/19

Simon Beckett is the No.1 International Bestselling author of the David Hunter series. His books have been translated into 29 languages, appeared in the Sunday Times Top 10 bestseller lists and sold over 10 million copies worldwide. A former freelance journalist who has written for The Times, The Daily Telegraph, The Independent on Sunday and The Observer, the inspiration for the first David Hunter novel came after a visit to the world-renowned Body Farm in Tennessee introduced him to the work of forensic anthropologists.

As well as co-winning the Ripper Award in 2018/19, the largest European crime prize, Simon has won the Raymond Chandler Society’s ‘Marlowe’ Award and been short-listed for the CWA Gold Dagger, CWA Dagger in the Library and Theakston’s Crime Novel of the Year.

In addition to the six David Hunter titles, the most recent of which is The Scent of Death, he has written five standalone novels, one of which, Where There’s Smoke, was adapted into a major ITV two-part drama.

Find out more on www.simonbeckett.com, or follow him on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

"Simon Beckett’s sixth novel featuring the forensic anthropologist David Hunter is arguably his best . . . a superbly strong read." (Marcel Berlins THE TIMES)

“Brilliantly original ... Simon’s first crime novel The Chemistry of Death absolutely blew me away and he just gets better by the book!" (PETER JAMES)

"A satisfyingly dark and twisting thriller." (MAIL ON SUNDAY)

"An arresting setup . . . Beckett has regained his best form . . . the exigencies of a macabre investigative thriller are dispatched with characteristic aplomb." (Barry Forshaw FINANCIAL TIMES)

"Beckett's masterful storytelling and macabre forensic details make his novels utterly chilling reads." (TESS GERRITSEN)

"The forensics are chillingly authentic, the writing is both taut and beautifully atmospheric.’ (ANN CLEEVES)

‘Terrifying… Rarely have the mechanics of suspense been so effectively realized outside an Alfred Hitchcock movie.’ (THE DAILY EXPRESS)

‘Beckett is one of the country’s best crime writers… His books are intelligent, beautifully written and utterly gripping.’ (THE SUNDAY EXPRESS)

Customer reviews

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 54% 32% 11% 2% 1% 54%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 54% 32% 11% 2% 1% 32%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 54% 32% 11% 2% 1% 11%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 54% 32% 11% 2% 1% 2%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 54% 32% 11% 2% 1% 1%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers find the reading experience pleasantly surprising. They also praise the writing style as well-written and the author as knowing his craft. Readers describe the characters and surroundings as well enough. Opinions are mixed on the storyline, with some finding it great and predictable, while others say it's gratuitous.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the book pleasantly surprising, excellent, and balanced. They also say the author is a wicked good writer who keeps them interested and wondering what's going to happen. Customers also mention that the book has great mystery, believable characters, and great research.

" Incredible book ! Loving forensic science made this book even more fascinating...." Read more

"...In short the guy has mastered an excellent balance of the literary narrative (for which the British are noted) and the page turner...." Read more

"...All in all, a good effort and an enjoyable read with several irritating flaws." Read more

"The story is very well written. It easily captivated me and I became hooked. I need the whole series! I highly recommend this book." Read more

Customers find the writing style of the book well-written, clever, and fabulous. They also say the author knows his craft.

"...Not only does it involve forensics but it is also unusually well written especially in its precision and attention to detail...." Read more

"...important thing going for it: Beckett actually understands how to craft a decent English sentence ...." Read more

"The author writes well and knows his craft. The author is a great storyteller. Only a few authors have both...." Read more

" Very well written . Lots of things happening to keep me reading. Another great book from an author I will start reading." Read more

Customers find the characters well described and the scenes he portrays literally come alive.

"...The intensity of the plot and the rich characters made it impossible to put the book down...." Read more

"...All the other characters were well written as well. I thought I had this killer figured out early on and that was okay...." Read more

"...This book has many unforeseen twists and turns. The characters are unforgettable . It’s a must read." Read more

"...His characters (even the dead ones) and the scenes he portrays literally come alive ...." Read more

Customers find the book fascinating forays into forensic anthropology.

"...about the quality/clarity of the writing and the fascinating forays into forensic anthropology ...." Read more

"... Anthropological forensics is fascinating ." Read more

" Excellent Forensics , Average Procedural..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the storyline. Some mention that it has a great plot with a likeable hero and twists in the suspects. They say the books are psychological thrillers and well written. However, some customers feel the qualities make the actual plot seem gratuitous and predictable. They also say the book starts a little boring but once the story really started it was a page turner.

"The story is very well written . It easily captivated me and I became hooked. I need the whole series! I highly recommend this book." Read more

"...Granted, there was enough suspense to keep the reader engaged , but it somehow seemed to lack substance...." Read more

"...criticism I would have would be that the author seems slightly less assured with the plotting , something that was also common with Patricia Cornwell..." Read more

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