Page turning

The Crucifix Killer

Chris Carter — 2009

When the body of a young woman is discovered in a derelict cottage in the middle of Los Angeles National Forest, Homicide Detective Robert Hunter finds himself entering a horrific and recurring nightmare. Naked, strung from two wooden posts, the victim was sadistically tortured before meeting an excruciatingly painful death. All the skin has been ripped from her face - while she was still alive. On the nape of her neck has been carved a strange double-cross: the signature of a psychopath known as the Crucifix Killer. But that's impossible. Because two years ago, the Crucifix Killer was caught and executed. Could this therefore be a copycat killer? Or could the unthinkable be true? Is the real killer still out there, ready to embark once again on a vicious and violent killing spree, selecting his victims seemingly at random, taunting Robert Hunter with his inability to catch him? Hunter and his rookie partner are about to enter a nightmare beyond imagining.

Reviews

Joana da Silva@julesdsilva

Mar 5, 2023

I'll just say this: nothing makes me happier than guessing who the killer is and getting it right on the first hunch. Amazing book, incredible world-building, descriptions, and believable characters. Robert Hunter is like a Dr. Reid meets Hotch and I was here for it. Yes, this is a book for Criminal Minds' lovers.

chloe mcpherson@randombookhoarder

Feb 8, 2022

A body of a young woman is discovered and Homicide Detective Robert Hunter is called in to investigate the murder. This is the first book in the Robert Hunter Series and I just know that this is going to be one of my favourite crime series. Chris Carter had me hooked from the first page, and when I started reading it I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. And the ending though (internally cries). If you love crime and looking for something new and original I would recommend picking up Chris Carter’s books.

Danni’s Badass Books@killerdan180

Nov 21, 2021

⭐ 5 Stars ⭐ I loved this book! It honestly felt like you were playing detective alongside Hunter and his partner, Garcia. The characters were all great in their own way, they each added something to the story. I liked the relationship between Hunter and Garcia and I think they worked really well together. I did have my suspicions as to who the killer might be which turned out to be right, and I was super excited. Although, I didn't have an idea until a couple of chapters before it was revealed. Once you know who it is though, you remember the subtle hints throughout the book which I thought was really clever and well done. Chris Carter is a great author, his writing and descriptions captivate you and you're left wanting more. If you love crime fiction I highly suggest giving this a go. I know I will definitely be reading more of this series!

Paulina R.@incryptia

Nov 2, 2021

3.5

Chloe Parpworth-Reynolds@nyamhh

Oct 19, 2021

This book series got me back in to reading highly addictive, some parts hit and miss but it really depends on where you're interest within the crime genre lies. A strong first novel but definitely experimental at times with a few issues with pacing.