^[1]Flash and Bones (Temperance Brennan #13)

Written by: Kathy Reichs

271 Pages

Random House

ISBN:978-0-434-01535-1

Reviewed by: Cecilia Jansink ^[2]

In the stunning latest offering from forensic anthropologist and author Kathy Reichs, we enter a world of fast cars, cold cases, right-wing politics and stonewalling from the FBI.

When a hand is found submerged in a rusty drum packed with asphalt at the dump next to the Charlotte raceway; Tempe Brennan knows things are going to get complicated. After all, it is race week and the reporters are already circling the story like sharks after bait, but before a proper examination can be carried out, the FBI confiscate the evidence and conveniently have it destroyed.

No one gets between Dr Brennan and her quest for answers – not even the Feds. When a NASCAR engineer brings her the story of the 12 year old disappearance of his sister and her boyfriend, Tempe is more determined than ever to discover the truth. Only problem is more bodies pop up than answers.

I must admit I am a huge fan of Reichs but the last few novels had, in my opinion, fallen a little flat. Thankfully, “Flash and Bones” has the feel of classic Tempe and reminds us of why she became such a phenomenon in the first place.

“Flash and Bones” is a high octane tour through the shady dealings of militant groups, NASCAR and its groupies, and the lengths the FBI will take to ensure national security. Throw a certain forensic anthropologist into the mix and you know for sure things are about to take a deadly and dangerous turn.

It is as though Reichs has gotten back to basics and focused more on crafting a suspenseful murder mystery than Tempe’s topsy-turvy love life. Sure we still get a glimpse into what is happening behind the scenes: there’s new drama with Pete and Summer; Ryan still has her puzzled; and there’s a new hunk-o-spunk on the scene – but the balance is perfect.

The characters are larger than life, the plot thick and fast, and the humour quick witted.  And in my opinion, what’s the best thing about delving into Tempe’s world? There is always something new to learn, whether you’re a new reader or not.

So step out the pits and onto the circuit, and join Tempe for one heck of a ride.