Evil Bones

Forensic anthropologist Temperence “Tempe” Brennan investigates a series of ritualistic killings in the sturdy latest installment of Reich’s procedural series (after Fire and Bones). The residents of Charlotte, N.C., have been put on edge by a recent spate of animal mutilations. When Tempe arrives at the scene of the most recent one, she’s horrified to find that the victim is a dog and vows to track down the person responsible. With Andrew Ryan—Tempe’s former investigative partner and current significant other—off on other case in Quebec, she teams up with the unpleasant but professionally gifted Skinny Slidell. The stakes of the pair’s inquiry skyrocket when the killer graduates to human victims. Though the plot is somewhat predictable (not to mention grisly), Reich spruces things up with a lovably eccentric supporting cast that includes Tempe’s erratic daughter, Katy, and grumpy teenage niece, Ruthie, who inject humor into the blood-curdling proceedings. Fans of the series will be satisfied. (Nov.)