Review: The Body Finder

The Body Finder

By Kimberly Derting

Publication date: March 16, 2010

My rating: *****

My review:

Violet Ambrose is a girl with an unusual ability-she can sense echoes of violent deaths. This disturbing ability could prove useful when there is a serial killer targeting young women in her town. With the help of her best friend Jay Heaton, whom Violet is developing feelings for, she sets out to find the killer before he strikes again.

The Body Finder may have some paranormal elements in it but it is really more of a YA romantic suspense novel. The tension from the serial killer plot is matched by the romantic tension between Violet and Jay. I liked Violet's character and her determination to help stop the serial killer even though it puts her in danger. Her ability could have kept her from truly living her life but she doesn't let it. She is very uncertain about how Jay sees her but it is clear that she loves him and she is too scared to chance their friendship by admitting her feelings. Jay on the other hand definitely cares about her but at times when his actions are viewed through Violet's eyes it does appear that he may only see her as a friend. Then at other times it is obvious that he loves her and he shows it through his support of her. He makes a fantastic love interest for her and he is a great character.

The suspense was increased by showing us glimpses of the killer's thoughts and actions. It is especially creepy as he lures his victims to him. I didn't figure out who the killer was and I really liked that. The ultimate showdown between Violet and the killer was handled really well. I found the story to be gripping and I was sad when it was over. The Body Finder is a fantastic page turning novel and I am so glad that there is a sequel in the works. I loved that there was a combination of suspense and romance in this novel. I do wish that we had more explanation of Violet's ability but she is just now starting to explore it so hopefully we will learn more about it in the sequel. I would recommend this to fans of romantic suspense. It is another new favorite of mine and I can't wait to read Desires of the Dead next year.