Open Season

I do love reading a new Alex Delaware novel, and the 40th outing is no different. After forty stories, one gets to know Alex and Milo and how they work together. This time a sniper is killing people that don’t seem to have any connection. They more Alex thinks about it the more he learns. This story does not see us in Alex’s profession as a psychologist, except for brief mentions of right notes and filing. Also, doesn’t delve into his personal relationship much with Robin. It’s all abluot these murders and how they can be solved. It’s not one of the best, but still the author keeps it refreshing and I will keep reading.

Can it be that this is the 40th book in the Alex Delaware series? I have read all of them. Obviously, I enjoy the investigative duo of Detective Milo Sturgis and psychologist Alex Delaware, as well as all the supporting characters and look forward to each new addition. Whenever I open a Kellerman book, I can’t seem to put it down.

A young woman who was drugged is found dead. Soon after, the main suspect is discovered shot through his neck. The bullet that killed him matches an earlier murder and the investigative team suspect other deaths may be tied to the same killer. What do the victims have in common that will help them find the shooter?

Kellerman writes true police procedurals, albeit a little different due to Milo being show more unconventional and Alex along to provide psychological insight. They tend to have a familiar rhythm, as the duo chase down leads, generate and discuss different theories, interview persons of interest, enjoy a few good meals. Kellerman’s descriptions are particularly picturesque and entertaining and he always seems to put a fresh spin on cases. Yes, this can be read as a standalone, if you are unfamiliar with this series and enjoy police procedurals, do yourself a favor and read some of the earlier ones as well.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @randomhouse for the DRC. show less

Open Season by Jonathan Kellerman is a very highly recommended procedural and the fortieth novel set in LA featuring Psychologist Alex Delaware joining Homicide Detective Milo Sturgis in an investigation.

The body of a young woman who was drugged and murdered is dumped near an emergency clinic. As soon as they seen to be narrowing in on a suspect, the man is found murdered, shot in the neck by a bullet with a full metal jacket from a .308 rifle. A sniper is suspected, but who and how does it tie to the murdered young woman. Soon, based on the weapon used, the case expands to previous incidents with similarities.

As expected, the writing is excellent, the pace is fast, and the journey to the finding the killer is compelling. Following the show more investigation to the different cases, directions, and questions that arise with the detectives is intriguing. All of this is naturally accompanied by Alex's keen insights that assist in discovering what is really going on with these cases. It is a pleasure to follow the disclosure of new information and where each new clue leads the team.

At this point, fans of the series know these characters well and what to expect from them. For anyone not following the series, this can be enjoyed as a standalone procedural. You won't have the history, but you will still be able to appreciate the twists the investigation takes on the way to a surprising final denouement.
Thanks to Random House/Ballantine Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
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Another good murder mystery featuring Milo, Alex, Robin and Milo's team.

In Open Season someone is killing people, mostly men, off with a shotgun, and seems its been going on for years.

Takes lots of detailed investigating, and a simply but brainy idea from Robin to put the case in perspective, and get the team headed onto the right track.

The main characters, as always, are great; plot and timing are good. Too many secondary characters with some but not nearly enough development.

While I enjoy reading Jonathan's books, I feel his characters are stagnating, frozen in a dystopian LA, and on a loop.

Time for me to take a break but stick with Faye's and Jesse's books.

Open Season is a well researched and written thriller book. Without clues, the characters are able to figure out who was a killer. The story kept the reader engaged from beginning to the end. Four stars were given to this book.

Don't remember what this one was about, but all of Kellerman's Alex Delaware novels provide interestingly enough reads and revisits to favorite characters like Milo Sturgis.

I love Milo but Alex is annoying. Clever book but the characters are not my favorite.