The Bone Collector by Jefferey Deaver

Emily | Marlboro High School, Grade 11

Rating: *****

Lincoln Rhyme was one of New York’s best criminalists before he was injured at a crime scene and became crippled for life. Unable to do the work he once loved, he spends his days sitting in bed all alone, except for his aide. He believes that death would bring him more satisfaction than staying alive, so he plans to commit suicide. However, when the NYPD requests his help on a new kidnapping/murder case, he agrees to help from his bedroom. He meets officer Amelia Sachs, who he trains to analyze crime scenes the way he once did. The two form a special connection as Rhyme seeks to uncover Sachs’ full potential. They are in a race against time as the perpetrator leaves a trail of clues behind. If they can piece the clues together, they will be able to prevent more deaths.

This is the best crime novel I have ever read. The book was realistic and descriptive, using specific forensic techniques to analyze the clues left behind. I felt like a police officer involved in the investigation because I gained a new understanding of their crime scene procedures. I loved that simultaneously as the characters were trying to catch the criminal, there was an emotional aspect of the novel. Rhyme was battling with suicide and Sachs was contemplating her future. The author switched from the perspectives of Rhyme, Sachs, the perpetrator, and the victims effortlessly. The ending was amazing, and I never saw it coming. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who finds police work and forensics interesting.