It’s the second-to-last day of archaeological field school. Dr. Temperance Brennan’s students are working on a site of prehistoric graves on Dewees, a barrier island north of Charleston, South Carolina, when a decomposing body is uncovered in a shallow grave off a lonely beach…The skeleton is articulated, the bone fresh and the vertebrae still connected by soft-tissue; the remains are encased in rotted fabric and topped by wisps of pale, blond hair – a recent burial, and a case Tempe must take. Dental remains and skeletal gender and race indicators suggest that the deceased is a middle-aged white male – but who was he? Why was he buried in a clandestine grave? And what does the unusual vertical hairline fracture of the sixth cervical vertebrae signify? While Tempe is trying to piece together the evidence, her personal life is thrown into turmoil. When a bullet – intended, perhaps, for her – puts Tempe’s estranged husband Pete in hospital, her unexpectedly emotional response complicates her on-off relationship with Detective Andrew Ryan…But before long, another body is discovered – and Tempe finds herself drawn deeper into a shocking and chilling investigation, set to challenge her entire view of humanity. ..
Dive into a chilling mystery with Kathy Reichs' "Break No Bones," a gripping thriller featuring forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennan. This First Paperback Edition, published by Arrow Books in 2007, will keep you on the edge of your seat from the very first page. The story unfolds on Dewees Island, a serene barrier island off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina, where Tempe's archaeological field school takes a dark turn. What begins as a routine excavation of prehistoric graves quickly escalates into a complex murder investigation. A recently buried body is unearthed a middle-aged white male, his remains concealed in rotted fabric. The unsettling vertical hairline fracture on his sixth cervical vertebra becomes the crucial piece of the puzzle that Tempe must solve. Reichs, drawing on her own experiences as a forensic anthropologist, weaves a narrative rich in scientific detail and suspense. The intricate process of skeletal analysis, the meticulous gathering of forensic evidence all are brought to life with chilling realism. But "Break No Bones" is more than just a forensic procedural. It's a psychological thriller that delves into the dark corners of the human psyche. As Tempe races against time to identify the victim and uncover the truth behind his clandestine burial, her personal life is thrown into disarray. A bullet, possibly meant for her, lands her estranged husband, Pete, in the hospital, complicating her already tangled relationship with Detective Andrew Ryan. The emotional turmoil adds another layer of complexity to the story, blurring the lines between her professional and personal life. Just when Tempe seems to be making progress, another body is discovered, plunging her deeper into a web of deceit and danger. This shocking discovery forces her to confront a chilling conspiracy that threatens to shatter her perception of humanity. Prepare to be captivated by Reichs' masterful storytelling as Tempe navigates treacherous paths, facing both external threats and internal conflicts. "Break No Bones" is not just a thrilling read; it's an exploration of the human condition. Reichs challenges readers to question their own beliefs and confront the darkest aspects of human nature. With its intricate plot, compelling characters, and realistic forensic details, this novel is a must-read for fans of mystery, thriller, and suspense. If you enjoyed Patricia Cornwell or Karin Slaughter, you'll love Kathy Reichs' Tempe Brennan series. Order your copy today and prepare for a captivating journey into the world of forensic anthropology and criminal investigation!