This book happened across my reading list thanks to the reviews of my B&N friends and I'm so glad it did! The Body Finder is a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, romance and paranormal. I loved Kimberly Derting's writing, she did a great job of taking me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The story revolves around the main character, Violet, and her unusual talent for finding creatures that have been killed. She can hear, see or even taste the unique echo each victim leaves behind and she recognizes the matching imprint on each killer too. Some people have imprints even if they're no one to fear because of job-related killings or hunting, so she's never sure what she's sensing when she comes across a new imprint on someone. This makes for an interesting source of fear, not only for the protagonist, but for the reader as well. Violet keeps her talent a secret from all but a few close people in her life and burying the dead animals she is lured to brings her a sense of calm and quiets the echo. In the rare case of a human's violent death, however, peace isn't as easy to come by. When a serial killer starts terrorizing the area, Violet realizes she needs to use her gift to help stop the murders, even if it means danger for herself. All the while, this story takes on another plot which focuses on the friendship and potential romance between Violet and her next-door-neighbor/best friend, Jay. I'm not normally a huge fan of romance, but the characters were so believable, and the love story was such a welcome reprieve from the edge-of-your-seat suspense of the main plot, that I enjoyed it thoroughly. My heart raced as I read of their blossoming romance and it helped create some of the wonderful highs of this journey. The lows were just as satisfying though, and I only stopped reading to make myself something to eat. I would recommend this book for any lovers of suspense or anyone looking for a good page-turner.
Favorite things: the writing style, the suspense, the mystery, the characters, the romance, a strong female protagonist and a beautiful cover.
Criticisms: I was able to predict some of the things that were going to happen and I don't like that in a book with elements of mystery. I'd rather be left guessing until the author decides to reveal it to me.
Overall: 5 out of 5 stars!
Some of the things were slightly predictable like you said, but I still enjoyed this book more than I thought I would! I loved the slightly twisted feel to it. Going from the killer/kidnapper's p.o.v. to Violet's! Desires of the Dead was a good folloqup too, but I think The Body Finder is my fave of the two!
ReplyDeleteAnd Kimberly said she has 2 more books in the series to come!
I definitely agree, the alternating perspectives gave it a nice atmosphere and I liked that she only switched when necessary instead of every other chapter like some writers.
ReplyDeleteI already purchased Desires of the Dead, but I've yet to read it. I usually like to switch it up from book to book unless a series is so good I can't put it down which is rare for me.
Anyway, nice to meet you and I look forward to comparing more reviews in the future!