A review by laurenjodi
Criminal by Karin Slaughter
5.0
Criminal
5 Stars
The disappearance and brutal murder of a young college student raises specters from the past for both Will Trent and his boss, GBI deputy director Amanda Wagner. For Amanda, the case evokes memories of the investigation that launched her career 40 years before while for Will, it prompts troubling questions regarding the death of his mother, which may provide important clues to the identity of a deranged killer.
An absolutely spellbinding read.
The mystery provides an excellent backdrop for the insights into the beginning of Amanda's career as a law enforcement officer as well as the revelations concerning her relationship with Will.
The descriptions of the rampant misogynism and racism in the 1970s are both heartbreaking and infuriating, and go a long way toward explaining Amanda's personality. They are all the more troubling considering the current political and social climate in the USA and elsewhere today.
The transitions between the chapters set in the past and those set in the present are seamless, and the manner in which Slaughter has skillfully interwoven the lives of the various female characters mentioned throughout the series within the fabric of Will's life is particularly satisfying.
There are also some minor developments in Will and Sara's relationship, and it is clear that there are still obstacles for them to overcome if they are to have a future together.
In sum, a brilliant addition to the series and I can't wait for the next one.
5 Stars
The disappearance and brutal murder of a young college student raises specters from the past for both Will Trent and his boss, GBI deputy director Amanda Wagner. For Amanda, the case evokes memories of the investigation that launched her career 40 years before while for Will, it prompts troubling questions regarding the death of his mother, which may provide important clues to the identity of a deranged killer.
An absolutely spellbinding read.
The mystery provides an excellent backdrop for the insights into the beginning of Amanda's career as a law enforcement officer as well as the revelations concerning her relationship with Will.
The descriptions of the rampant misogynism and racism in the 1970s are both heartbreaking and infuriating, and go a long way toward explaining Amanda's personality. They are all the more troubling considering the current political and social climate in the USA and elsewhere today.
The transitions between the chapters set in the past and those set in the present are seamless, and the manner in which Slaughter has skillfully interwoven the lives of the various female characters mentioned throughout the series within the fabric of Will's life is particularly satisfying.
There are also some minor developments in Will and Sara's relationship, and it is clear that there are still obstacles for them to overcome if they are to have a future together.
In sum, a brilliant addition to the series and I can't wait for the next one.