Book Review: The Christopher Killer

The Christopher Killer: A Forensic Mystery by Alane Ferguson

SUMMARY: Ferguson's latest mystery-thriller introduces 17-year-old Cameryn Mahoney, who has the annoying habit of challenging her elders (most of whom seem to deserve it). She also has the unshakable desire to be a forensic pathologist--and a very strong stomach. The latter comes in handy during the autopsy of a friend, the latest victim of a serial killer whose signature is a St. Christopher's medal left with each body. The vivid autopsy scenes are surprising, given the fairly routine story line and agreeable, though certainly not complex, characters. It's Cammie's energy and chutzpa that really propel the story, and readers will sympathize with her as she struggles to decide whether to keep faith with science or be sucked in by a charismatic psychic. This is worlds away from the Nancy Drew college series in terms of gore, but CSI fans won't blink twice. (from the Booklist review)

OPINION: Cammie is really interested in figuring out the stories the dead have to tell, but she has to have a lot of personal strength, knowledge, and patience to figure out those stories! In this first book of the series, she begins to put her book learning to the test by helping her dad, a coroner, with his caseload. As a forensic mystery, this book really focuses on the postmortem aspects of crime solving. Think of it like a literary CSI: plenty of discussion and descriptions regarding decaying dead bodies, autopsies, and life in the morgue. But it is also a fast-moving thriller with plenty of action to keep your interest.