Deja Dead is the first of the Temperance Brennan novels. It introduces the flawed but brilliant heroine (Tempe Brennan) who is on the trail of a vicious serial killer. The forensic scientist finds herself up against this killer as well as colleagues and friends in this thrilling novel.

Fans of forensic crime novels won't want to miss this well-known series. Reichs is a forerunner in the field and her expertise shines through her work, as does her skill at storytelling. (If you've seen the television show, Bones, which is based upon the life and writing of Kathy Reichs, definitely read these books, but don't expect too many similarities!)

What I love about the Temperance Brennan novels is the level of realism. Not only is the science presented in a real manner, but the characters aren't perfect and the action isn't unbelievable. The crimes aren't solved overnight, and Reich's characters do normal human things like sleep and eat. At the same time, Reichs manages to maintain a level of suspense and a thrilling element in this novel.

The first Reichs/Brennan novel I read was Bones to Ashes, and I remember being disappointed that the title character was nothing like the television show character (who was based on the novels' heroine). This time, I wasn't expecting the two to be alike, and I found I enjoyed the novel a lot more.

Upon finishing Deja Dead, I wanted to race to my library and pick up the next book in the series! I'm very curious about Tempe Brennan, her home life, her family, her friends, and I want to know what the next mystery will be!

This book scared me, which doesn't happen often. The book actually started influencing my dreams, and for a few nights (as I neared the end of the book), I dreamt about serial killers. I liked that the book affected me so much, but I did take a break from thriller/suspense novels for a bit after finishing this one.

Kathy Reichs knows what she's writing about. While other crime novelists research their subjects, Kathy Reichs is the expert in forensic science, and she's written several Brennan novels which explore the life of one such scientist.

Deja Dead is worth the read. It's exciting and engaging and makes for one thrilling read. If you enjoyed it, like I did, then continue with the series, like I will be doing.

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Created Apr 23, 2009 at 9:22pm • Submit your own review...