Rick H. (WileyCoyote) reviewed on 7/29/2006 + 98 more book reviews

Robert Crais, known for his Elvis Cole novels, has taken a break from his famous Private Eye! I never did get "into" the Cole Series, but I really liked Crais' writing style, so I decided to give this one a shot. This time Crais has created Carol Starkey, a female bomb-squad vet doing time as a Detective 2 with LAPD's Criminal Conspiracy Section. After suffering a catastrophic explosion 3 years earlier that left her literally in pieces, both physically and emotionally, she is placed on a case that dredges up old feelings, unleashing her inner demons all over again! Her main nemesis is "Mr. Red", who's main desire is to become the most feared man in the world! (what do you want to be when you grow up!) Crais manages to depict him in such a way that you almost want to root for him. It's this ability, coupled with Starky's character that makes this book a very entertaining listen. The solid supporting characters, and Crais' well-written knowledge of bombs and bomb-making will maintain your interest throughout. Personally, I found this heroine to be on the level of a Clarice Starling! - you remember her - right? Remember Jodie Foster with Hannibal Lecter!!! I know ladies don't normally gravitate to Mystery/Thrillers (my entire bookshelf), but mayber this book will get some of them to come over to my side! C'mon ladies, reach into the unknown - you may find that you like it after all!

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