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Trail of Blood

by Lisa Black
Morrow. Sept. 2010. c.400p. ISBN 978-0-06-198933-9. $24.99. F
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When forensic pathologist Theresa MacLean (Evidence of Murder) is called in to examine a slightly mummified corpse, she realizes it's a likely victim of the infamous Torso Killer, a serial murderer never caught despite the bold statements he left all over the train yards of Cleveland. It turns out the victim was a young detective trying to solve the cases. Locally born and bred, with police department lineage, Theresa and her cousin Frank Patrick grew up on tales about the Torso Killer. When a copycat killer starts in, both know they are chasing madness. Black constructs a compelling parallel story of the 1930s investigation with the modern-day pursuit. Readers may figure out the murderers—past and present—before Theresa does, but it's nonetheless a wild ride to the end of the line.
VERDICT Black's carefully drawn descriptions of 1930s Cleveland and its rail yards create an intense feeling of suspense. True-crime buffs will appreciate her attention to accuracy. This third outing for Theresa will appeal to readers of Tess Gerritsen's Rizzoli and Isles series as well as fans of Michael Harvey's The Third Rail.
Reviewed by Teresa L. Jacobsen, Solano Cty. Lib., Fairfield, CA , Aug 01, 2010
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