Blood Memory

Yet again, another mesmerising and compulsive read from Greg Iles. Totally different to all the other books of his I have read so far, yet still linked by having two characters who appear in his Penn Cage series - FBI Agent John Kaiser and Dr Tom Cage (the latter in one chapter only) - which brings a sense of continuity to the partial setting of this book in Natchez. Yes, there are a few things that are bit far-fetched, such as one other reviewer pointed out as being the rather absurd notion of our heroine being swept along the Mississippi clinging to the roots of a tree in torrential rain yet able to retrieve and listen to her voicemail messages, but this is a work of fiction and a tremendously great read that keeps you riveted as the two separate but linked stories unfold. The central theme of childhood sexual abuse and its impact on victims then and, ultimately, right through adulthood, especially the whole issue of the truth regarding repressed memories, as well as how those who sometimes know the truth of what is going on but do not act, either because of self-preservation, fear or because they are in a position of weakness as regards their position in society versus that of the abuser are all dealt with in an empathetic way. The book also raises the thorny issue of proving sexual abuse years after the actual crimes took place, when there is no direct physical evidence or witnesses. Then there is the whole question of the rights and wrongs of vigilante 'justice' - in this book, one innocent man (that we know of amongst the six in the serial killing spree in New Orleans) is cruelly murdered due to a false repressed memory. Overall, Blood Memory raises a lot of moral issues and questions that certainly gave me plenty to think about that I have never thought about before, while at the same time delivering an excellent and exciting read. And I have no complaints about the length of Greg Iles's books as I always feel slightly bereft when I reach the end! PS - As a male writer, I also think Mr Iles has great ability for writing from a female perspective, especially given the nature of this story, which is very much one told from an abused woman's perspective and psyche.

A seriously troubled forensics expert tries to deal with demons from her past while at the same time being involved in a serial murder case which appears to have some linkage to her personal history.As usual, the book is superbly written, for the most part, and has Iles' usual great insights. He has clearly done his research again and deals with the issues of repressed memories and sexual abuse in a fascinating way. He thus delivers quite an intriguing plot even if one of the endings seems to come out of nowhere.Interestingly, reviews on the US site are more critical than those here and I do agree with two of the negative observations made. Firstly, the book is far too long - I read the annoying 500 page small-print version, but I understand the standard paperback was over 700 pages. Secondly, there are quite a few implausible elements, but these do not "shipwreck" what is otherwise a very good story. But really, for instance, having the time and ability to listen to 4 detailed voice-mail messages while struggling to survive in a torrential storm on a log being swept away on a river, while wounded and trying to escape a killer...???Overall, despite the book being slightly flawed, Iles has used a topical theme to deliver a well-written and well-constructed story. 9/10

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I haven`t finished the book yet but its absolutely one of the best books i have ever read. I think Greg Iles is a talented writer and have read several of his other books. The subject matter in this book is not for the faint hearted. It has had me gripped from the beginning and I cant wait to see who did it. If you like a good thriller you will not be disappointed in this book. Really an excellent read!

This is a brilliantly written thriller as all of iles' books. The depth of research and thought put into it is second to none. And yes the topic of sexual abuse is a bit heavy but it is extremely well readable as usual with this author

Had me reading till the early hours. This book is not to be missed. Love everything this man writes. Enjoy.

Really can't get into this book at all even though I have enjoyed all of his other books

Wish i'd discovered this writer years ago. Absolutely fantastic. Nothing else that I have read comes close. Feel I really know the area around natchez now