Bones to Ashes by Kathy Reichs follows the well-known character, Temperance Brennan, as she investigates yet another case. This one comes close to her own life, however, as Brennan becomes convinced that the skeleton remains she comes across belong to a childhood friend who went missing at the age of 15. Working with Detective Andrew Ryan, a former lover, Brennan helps investigate a series of murders which may be connected to the disappearance of her friend, and the two soon unveil a world of corruption and surprises.

Fans of the television show, Bones, may be interested to read a novel where the character Temperance Brennan comes from, as the show character is based upon the character from these "Bones" books. Though there is a distinct connection between the two, there are also many striking differences, too. Readers interested in forensic science will also enjoy this novel, as a good deal of science is presented along with the thriller/mystery.

What I liked most about this book was the mystery it offers. I liked the amount of history and science woven throughout the action in the novel. For me, that drew me in and made me want to continue reading.

What I didn't like about the novel is similar to other Bones tv show fans' reactions to the novel: I was very disappointed to learn that the television show character and book series character, both named Temperance Brennan, couldn't be more dissimilar. All the quirks and personality traits I love about the television show are totally absent from the novel. If I had known this in advance, I think I would have liked the novel much more, but I couldn't help but feel disappointed by the differences upon reading my first Bones novel.

Upon finishing Bones to Ashes, I wanted to watch the television show rather than continue with other novels of the series. Honestly, I enjoyed the show more than the novel, though I would give another of the books a chance before I entirely dismiss the series and the author.

Kathy Reichs is a forensic scientist which makes her science authentic and reliable through her mystery works. She has published a number of successful books through the Bones series, and her work has inspired a hit television show, too.

In the end, I recommend anyone to give the book and the series a chance. Though I found myself disappointed, it's worth a look, and if you're a fan of mysteries and thrillers, as well as forensic science and criminal investigation, you'll probably enjoy it.

One warning, though: the subject matter of Bones to Ashes may offend some. It deals with exploitation of minors and has some graphic scenes and very dark subject matter. It's not unnecessary violence or references, as it ties in closely with the plot of the novel, but I think readers should be warned.

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Created Feb 17, 2009 at 6:28pm • Submit your own review...