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Temperance Brennan is a forensic anthropologist for the Medical Examiner's office in North Carolina and holds a similar position in the province of Quebec. On her return to Canada from North Carolina she immediately is embroiled in a puzzling and controversial case when she is asked to consult on the unusual gunshots which killed an Orthodox Jewish man. Because of the nature of the killing the medical examiner has ordered an autopsy, something typically not allowed in the man's religion. While at the ME's office and standing in the hallway, she is approached by a bearded man, who quickly introduces himself and gives her a photo of a skeleton, telling her that where it was found is the cause of the man's murder. Tempe is immediately intrigued and following up on the bones she learns that they were uncovered during an archaeological dig at the site of a first century revolt against the Romans at Masada. The bones have been missing for over 20 years. Tempe determines that the dead man was dealing in illegal artefacts and when she asks a colleague to help her learn more, he insists she must meet him in Israel. Andrew Ryan, Tempe's lover and a Montreal policeman, is also heading to Israel to attempt to extradite the mysterious man who gave Tempe the photo and then fled to Israel. The visit to the Holy Land gives Tempe an opportunity to get in touch with her archaeological roots and she and her colleague, along with Ryan, have some interesting adventures. The book is fascinating, not only for the mystery aspect of it, but also for the historical background and the sights and sounds of modern day Israel. Her friend Jake, in the meantime, is trying to convince her that his discovery and the bones are 'big'. He is sure that the bodies from the tomb he is excavating are the family of Jesus Christ! Tempe is a strong protagonist. She is an independent woman and not at all dependent upon Ryan. She needs no big strong hero to get her out of a tough spot. She is quite capable of doing it herself, thank you very much! The author, like her creation, is a forensic anthropologist, both in North Carolina and Quebec. This is her eighth book starring Tempe. This series continues to evolve and to improve. The writing is crisp, the plotting is sure and the excitement builds to a surprising conclusion. This is fast-paced action all the way.
Reviewed by Lorraine Gelly, August 2005
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Contact: Yvonne Klein (ymk@reviewingtheevidence.com)
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