too many contrived coincidences and too many times the author interrupts the story line to explain his humour ( )

Another great anthropology/ crime novel

I can't quite figure what to say here that wouldn't be a spoiler, so I'll just say two things. It is a riveting story, but be aware there are some really disturbing moments chronicled here ( )

I just love the research that goes into these books. in this story, the Jefferson Bass team take us to Marianna, Florida, site of the notorious Florida Home for boys. Excellent ( )

Forensic anthropologist Bill Brockton is called when a dog drags a human skull back to a backwoods cabin. The skull is that of a young boy and when another turns up the search is on for the source. The search leads to a new murder and the grisly discovery of an abandoned reform school with deadly secrets. In the meantime Brockton's assistant is devastated by the death of her sister. The death is declared a suicide, but Angie is convinced that her sister was murdered by an abusive husband. She and Dr. Brockton race against time to obtain evidence to reopen the case. Good on atmosphere and characterization.

As the book opens, Dr. Bill Brockton is teaching forensic techniques to a class visiting his “Body Farm” at the University of Tennessee. Angie St. Claire is a visiting Florida forensic analyst who leaves abruptly when she receives an urgent phone call. Later she calls Dr. Brockton and asks him for help – her sister’s death has been ruled a suicide, but she believes she was murdered by Angie’s brother-in-law. Bill and Angie form a professional bond over investigating the family death, and when a local man’s dog finds a human skull, Angie asks Bill to take a look at it and give his professional opinion. The skull eventually opens an investigation into a nearby juvenile detention facility that burned down more than forty years earlier.

As usual, the author’s storytelling pulls you immediately into the story. One problem I had with the story is that the investigation of Angie’s sister seems only to be a plot device to get Dr. Brockton to Florida. Because of the dual investigations the plot becomes a bit convoluted and confusing in places. This wasn’t really necessary as Angie could have just as easily called Dr. Brockton to consult when the skull was found; he didn’t need to already be in the vicinity. But once the focus is turned onto the juvenile detention facility, the story evens out and becomes absorbing, if heartbreaking. I must include a strong warning that this book involves stories of young boys being verbally, physically and sexually abused. It was difficult and disturbing to read. But overall the story was well told and as usual Dr. Brockton is professional and empathetic. Three and a half stars. ( )