REVIEW: The Bone Collection by Kathy Reichs

This collection of four novellas features three previously available titles in the Temperance Brennan series as well as one new story. Please see the links for my previous reviews of:

Bones In Her Pocket

Swamp Bones

Bones on Ice

First Bones is a unique reading experience for series fan as the origin story of how Brennan embarks on her career as a forensic anthropologist in North Carolina.  It all began with a visit from two detectives, an arson, and a body burned beyond recognition; a case so alluring that she's willing to leave academia behind for the grim but addictive world of criminal investigation.

Another interesting aspect to this story is that it is told in differing time periods. The novella is framed at the beginning and end by Brennan holding vigil in the hospital for a beloved character ( I won't divulge who). The rest takes us back to Brennan's first case involving the crew from North Carolina--Detectives Slidell and Rinaldi, Dr. Larabee and Mrs. Flowers.  Overall, it isn't one of my favorite short stories of the series since it lacks some of the intricacies of the others; however, it was insightful and entertaining.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Follow the author on Twitter: @KathyReichs



#forensics #kathyreichs #prequel #temperancebrennan #bones #northcarloina #AIDS #arson #bookreview

REVIEW: Brighter Than the Sun by Darynda Jones

"Brighter Than the Sun" is a novella companion to the Charley Davidson series by Darynda Jones.  What's special about this selection is that it is Charley's story (or most of it) as told by Reyes Farrow. Still a child himself, Reyes recounts the first time he feels Charley's presence--her birth--and the unbearably beautiful light she exudes. She is a blazing spot in a life filled with utter darkness at the abusive hands of his 'father', Earl Walker.  Convinced that he's made Charley up as a way to endure the pain and humilation brought by his childhood, Reyes grasps hold of her presence and is amazed when he discovers she's real.  

I've always liked Reyes.  Sure, he's the legendary son of Satan. He's complicated, dark, dangerous and uber sexy, but this story proves he is much more than that based on his self sacrifice to ensure the continued safety of his stepsister.  Before now, we've only had Charley's perspective into Reyes' past. This story is certainly a darker turn.  There's humor but not a whole lot of it since that would miss the point entirely.

If you are a fan of the Charley Davidson series, plus want and need more Reyes, definitely check out this novella.  Readers won't be disappointed and it fits nicely within not only the story through book 10 but also with what is fated to come to pass in future novels. As usual, the audiobook narrated by Lorelei King (@LoreleiKing) is amazing! She is truly the Audiobook Queen.

Final rating: 4 out of 5 stars


#CharleyDavidson #BrighterThanTheSun #DaryndaJones #ReyesFarrow #romance #paranormal