The Skin Collector

Despite having numerous books by Jeffrey Deaver in the library this is the first novel that I've chosen to read. I was drawn to the sinister nature of the title which reminds me of my favourite books by Chris Carter.

I was not disappointed and thankfully have found another author while I await the next Chris Carter or indeed Linda Castillo novel (they can only write so many)!

I was drawn in from the outset and I did wonder what number in the series I was reading. Though it turned out not to be important, this is actually number 11 in the series. Being well into the series I wondered whether Rhyme's physical condition was due to an accident in a previous book or not. But I digress!

Rhyme's crew are on the tail of a suspected serial killer who would appear to be a talented tattoo artist. He becomes known as the underground man (which is how he secures his victims) and while he subdues his victims initially he eventually kills them using poison as part of his tattooing. It appears he is trying to send a message. Rhyme's team need to work out what message he is trying to send, if he is targeting anyone in particular and whether they anticipate his next move and catch him.

Plenty of twists and turns even when you think it's all done and dusted. And of course there's a side line story with one of Rhyme's nemesis - and it all comes together in the end.