REVIEW: Swamp Bones by Kathy Reichs

Once again, Dr. Temprance Brennan's attempt for a relaxing vaction goes awry. Set in the Florida swamps, Brennan is all set for a nice visit with her friend, an orinthologist dedicated to researching the impact burmese pythons pose to bird species in the Everglades.  When bone remains turn out to be human and a murder victim to boot, Brennan becomes embroiled in a competitive snake hunt and some of the swamp's darkest secrets.

As a continued fan of the series, this novella hit all the high notes.  The detailed, face paced, thrilling mystery had me second guessing the motives of all the characters.  I always appreciate Reichs' approach to science and how she novelizes her real life experiences. I'm still creeped out by snakes, so this wasn't my favorite addition to the series.

What I did like were all the hints related to the unrest Brennan feels about her relationship with Ryan and how that will impact the next book.  "Swamp Bones" is technically number 16.5 and the prequel to Bones Never Lie where an old case comes back to haunt Brennan and she has to draw Ryan out of his self imposed exile to catch a deadly foe.

Frustrating again was Brennan's tendancy to wander into dangerous situations alone. It happens every time and I'm starting to equate her behavior with Rick on The Walking Dead telling Carl to 'stay in the house.' It just isn't going to happen.

Final rating: 3 out of 5 stars




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