Rated of 5
by Robin Manhattan Murder Mystery
This harrowing story of a serial rapist/murderer on the loose definitely succeeded in capturing my attention. Not normally a mystery reader, this book was multi-layered and interposed so many different themes (such as some history of the Manhattan islands, the legal side of an ongoing investigation, and police procedure) that it instantly bewitched me. It was a very quick read, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone in the mood for an all-consuming, think-about-nothing-else afternoon!
Rated of 5
by John Killer Heat
In Killer Heat, Linda Fairstein brings back familiar lead characters in Asst. DA Alexandra Cooper, NYPD homocide detective Mike Chapman, and detective Mercer Wallace.
The story is set in N.Y. City during an August heat wave and involves the murders of three women that seem to be the work of a single serial killer.
One of the women is a prostitute with some well known clients which could have made this particularly timely in light of the Spitzer debacle but this angle is not pursued and plays no role in the story.
The book doesn't immediately engage ones interest as the opening seems quite reminiscent of a number of other murder mysteries.
The story then proceeds in a very linear fashion with few unexpected twists. A subplot about a Latino gang out for revenge on Ms. Cooper is never really developed and quickly dealt with in the end.
The book is well written, however, and certainly holds one's interest and has suspense enough to keep the pages turning. Ms. Fairstein also provides interesting historical information about some of the islands in N.Y. harbor.
I enjoyed the book and recommend it as a good read especially to fans of the genre. Of course, fans of Ms.Fairstein's work and the main characters [Ms. Cooper and friends] should love it. The quality of writing could also give it broader appeal.
Rated of 5
by Karen, Great Falls, VA Killer Heat and Killer Pacing
I think this is Linda Fairstein's best book to date. Fascinating history surrounding New York Harbor islands and sand dunes, excellent accurate legal analysis that entertains, great plot twists, and her pacing is superb. I completely forgot I was home with the flu! Plus, I'm a sucker for the characters and their banter. They're very fully developed personalities at this stage in her writing. Now, if only I could once guess the answer to the Jeopardy question they bet on each night!
Rated of 5
by Shirley Killer Heat by Linda Fairstein
Although Linda Fairstein has written a whole series about the New York District Attorney, Alexandra Cooper, this is the first one I have read. Ms Fairstein uses the experiences she had for more than 20 years in the Sex Crimes Unit of the District Attorney’s office in Manhattan. This novel is a page turner as Ms. Cooper goes about solving the brutal murders that appear to point to a deliberate method used for all three victims. It is a fast-paced and exciting read. I will definitely read her previous books featuring Alexandra Cooper.
Rated of 5
by Barbara L. A FRESH Lady Review
This is the first book I have read by Linda Fairstein, but I will be looking for more. Killer Heat was a real page turner. The plots of the first two murders were interwoven from the start. The reader was given just enough clues to think they had the solution only to find the contradictions along the way. As a murder mystery it was first rate.
That was what kept the pages turning, but there was far more to enjoy about this novel. Fairstein exhibited great sympathy for the victims and gave important lessons to all women as the lawyer, Alexandra Cooper, faced the prospect of torture herself. Given Fairstein's professional background, you were assured that she knew the scenarios that she was portraying. An added extra were all the history lessons given out along the way. I am now anxious to see Governor's Island and the other islands visited in the investigation.
Rated of 5
by Karen Intriguing and Suspenseful
This is my first Linda Fairstein book, and I must say I became an instant fan. I have read many forensic novels, and I have my favorite authors. Now I can add Fairstein to that list.
This novel was very intriguing and suspenseful. I really enjoyed the progression of the story line and the mystery involved. I also enjoyed learning the history of various military installations in the New York area.
All in all, I would definitely recommend this book to current Fairstein fans and "newbies". Now, I am off to the bookstore to look for more Fairstein novels!
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