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The Beautiful Dead
There’s no safety in numbers . . .
Eve Singer needs death. With her career as a TV crime reporter flagging, she’ll do anything to satisfy her ghoulish audience.
The killer needs death too. He even advertises his macabre public performances, where he hopes to show the whole world the beauty of dying.
When he contacts Eve, she welcomes the chance to be first with the news from every gory scene. Until she realizes that the killer has two obsessions.
One is public murder.
And the other one is her . . .
Eve Singer needs death. With her career as a TV crime reporter flagging, she’ll do anything to satisfy her ghoulish audience.
The killer needs death too. He even advertises his macabre public performances, where he hopes to show the whole world the beauty of dying.
When he contacts Eve, she welcomes the chance to be first with the news from every gory scene. Until she realizes that the killer has two obsessions.
One is public murder.
And the other one is her . . .
343 pages, Paperback
First published March 10, 2016
About the author
Belinda Bauer
21 books1,716 followersBelinda Bauer grew up in England and South Africa. She has worked as a journalist and screenwriter, and her script THE LOCKER ROOM earned her the Carl Foreman/Bafta Award for Young British Screenwriters, an award that was presented to her by Sidney Poitier. She was a runner-up in the Rhys Davies Short Story Competition for "Mysterious Ways," about a girl stranded on a desert island with 30,000 Bibles. Belinda now lives in Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 745 reviews
June 15, 2018
Dust to Dust
The squeamish 29 year old Eve Singer works the meat beat, a TV crime reporter on iWitness, a precarious and stressful job where pretty younger women are snapping at her heels, something male reporters do not have to worry about as they get older. She has moved back home to care for her dementia suffering father, Duncan, a tough, heartbreaking role, that relies on her keeping her job to pay the mortgage and pay for Duncan's carer. Her path crosses that of a serial killer whose plans to kill her are fortuitously averted as his obsession with her grows, after all they are in the same line of work, he needs people to die in order to live and so does she, both craving death and an audience. Eve's career is built on the bones of death and the tears of the bereaved, perfect for a killer looking to showcase his talents.
The killer feels himself living on borrowed time, convinced of his artistic genius on the subject of death, and Eve is his conduit for exhibiting his work. His artwork would confer immortality on the humdrum lives of strangers and ultimately place him among the greats of the art world. As caring for Duncan and her professional work pushes her to edge, she makes the fateful and morally questionable decision to use her connection with him. As those close to Eve begin to die around her, danger begins to swirl ever closer to her home. A danse macabre ensues as a desperate, deranged and devastated Eve loses faith in the police to help and protect her. She begins to step outside her own fearful personality that relies on others, knowing she has to think like a cold blooded killer to extricate herself from the grim scenario she finds herself in, and if she dies, so be it.
For the first time, as I began to read this humdinger of a novel from Bauer, I thought she was losing her surefire touch of brilliance. However, I persevered and I was eventually rewarded as it began to slowly spark into being, evolving into a conflagration, becoming a novel that inexorably drew me in and never let go, with unbearable levels of tension and suspense. This is a story of love, family and, unusually, romance amidst the broad canvas of death, murder, and a profession which guarantees a daily life of blood and guts that TV news gorges on. I loved seeing the reappearance of the able black DS Emily Aguda, whom I first encountered in The Shut Eye, rescued from her front desk duties by DCI Marvel, a man she wasn't certain she even liked. She is now a close protection officer, an all round ninja, despite being small of stature. Woe betide anyone who underestimates her. As usual, Bauer works her magic as she gels together the darkest of themes with superb and memorable characterisation, particularly the vulnerable Eve, in a tale infused with wit and humour. Just wonderful.
The squeamish 29 year old Eve Singer works the meat beat, a TV crime reporter on iWitness, a precarious and stressful job where pretty younger women are snapping at her heels, something male reporters do not have to worry about as they get older. She has moved back home to care for her dementia suffering father, Duncan, a tough, heartbreaking role, that relies on her keeping her job to pay the mortgage and pay for Duncan's carer. Her path crosses that of a serial killer whose plans to kill her are fortuitously averted as his obsession with her grows, after all they are in the same line of work, he needs people to die in order to live and so does she, both craving death and an audience. Eve's career is built on the bones of death and the tears of the bereaved, perfect for a killer looking to showcase his talents.
The killer feels himself living on borrowed time, convinced of his artistic genius on the subject of death, and Eve is his conduit for exhibiting his work. His artwork would confer immortality on the humdrum lives of strangers and ultimately place him among the greats of the art world. As caring for Duncan and her professional work pushes her to edge, she makes the fateful and morally questionable decision to use her connection with him. As those close to Eve begin to die around her, danger begins to swirl ever closer to her home. A danse macabre ensues as a desperate, deranged and devastated Eve loses faith in the police to help and protect her. She begins to step outside her own fearful personality that relies on others, knowing she has to think like a cold blooded killer to extricate herself from the grim scenario she finds herself in, and if she dies, so be it.
For the first time, as I began to read this humdinger of a novel from Bauer, I thought she was losing her surefire touch of brilliance. However, I persevered and I was eventually rewarded as it began to slowly spark into being, evolving into a conflagration, becoming a novel that inexorably drew me in and never let go, with unbearable levels of tension and suspense. This is a story of love, family and, unusually, romance amidst the broad canvas of death, murder, and a profession which guarantees a daily life of blood and guts that TV news gorges on. I loved seeing the reappearance of the able black DS Emily Aguda, whom I first encountered in The Shut Eye, rescued from her front desk duties by DCI Marvel, a man she wasn't certain she even liked. She is now a close protection officer, an all round ninja, despite being small of stature. Woe betide anyone who underestimates her. As usual, Bauer works her magic as she gels together the darkest of themes with superb and memorable characterisation, particularly the vulnerable Eve, in a tale infused with wit and humour. Just wonderful.
April 19, 2017
Having never read anything by the talented Belinda Bauer before but having heard such great things about her writing I was truly looking forward to reading this "The Beautiful Dead". I know no doubt that it will have been said before but the cover design of this book is just GORGEOUS and so attractive you'll be drawn to it whether you've heard of the author or not.
It begins with such a scary opening that you can't help but be drawn in immediately to this impressive book and by the end of the first chapter you just know you won't be putting this down any time soon! The atmosphere of fear and tension was almost tangible and had me quite scared.
TV crime reporter Eve Singer, whilst reporting on a series of murders unwittingly becomes the centre of a serial killer's attention who wants her for his 'deadly talent'.
This storyline is ingenious and in my opinion has some great characters - I loved the camaraderie between Eve and her cameraman Joe, and thought Mr Elias to be brilliant addition. The balance between Eve's work and the all too familiar home life with her father's dementia was perfect and although sad the author was able to make her father's situation quite humorous.
I thought this book was professionally written and personally loved the confident writing style, it was pace perfect and probably gave a true insight into how difficult the competition must be between journalists fighting for the same story. There were some particularly blood pulsing scary moments in the story and at times very tense. I highly recommend this thrilling crime novel - I was glued to the pages and I know I will go on to read more by Belinda Bauer in the future.
However, I will definitely be looking over my shoulder at the cinema from now on.........
It begins with such a scary opening that you can't help but be drawn in immediately to this impressive book and by the end of the first chapter you just know you won't be putting this down any time soon! The atmosphere of fear and tension was almost tangible and had me quite scared.
TV crime reporter Eve Singer, whilst reporting on a series of murders unwittingly becomes the centre of a serial killer's attention who wants her for his 'deadly talent'.
This storyline is ingenious and in my opinion has some great characters - I loved the camaraderie between Eve and her cameraman Joe, and thought Mr Elias to be brilliant addition. The balance between Eve's work and the all too familiar home life with her father's dementia was perfect and although sad the author was able to make her father's situation quite humorous.
I thought this book was professionally written and personally loved the confident writing style, it was pace perfect and probably gave a true insight into how difficult the competition must be between journalists fighting for the same story. There were some particularly blood pulsing scary moments in the story and at times very tense. I highly recommend this thrilling crime novel - I was glued to the pages and I know I will go on to read more by Belinda Bauer in the future.
However, I will definitely be looking over my shoulder at the cinema from now on.........
December 18, 2016
This is a good one!
Crime Reporter Eve Singer makes a bold move when walking home alone late one night—she gets a creepy feeling that a man is following her, and rather than run, she turns around and asks the man to walk her home. Little does Eve know that not only did she just escape becoming the next victim of a serial killer, she also catches his eye and becomes his muse.
The killer, who fancies himself an artist, becomes obsessed with Eve and baits her into giving his horrendous crimes the attention that they deserve. A cat and mouse game ensues, and Eve puts herself in a situation that causes those around her to become the next targets.
There’s something rather satisfying about The Beautiful Dead: Eve is a likable heroine, it’s fast-paced and easy to read, and I wasn’t left with questions. I loved the complex relationship with Eve and her father, as well as her budding relationship with Joe. I also enjoyed the bits of humor that were mixed in to lighten the darkness I hope we see more of Eve in the future.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Crime Reporter Eve Singer makes a bold move when walking home alone late one night—she gets a creepy feeling that a man is following her, and rather than run, she turns around and asks the man to walk her home. Little does Eve know that not only did she just escape becoming the next victim of a serial killer, she also catches his eye and becomes his muse.
The killer, who fancies himself an artist, becomes obsessed with Eve and baits her into giving his horrendous crimes the attention that they deserve. A cat and mouse game ensues, and Eve puts herself in a situation that causes those around her to become the next targets.
There’s something rather satisfying about The Beautiful Dead: Eve is a likable heroine, it’s fast-paced and easy to read, and I wasn’t left with questions. I loved the complex relationship with Eve and her father, as well as her budding relationship with Joe. I also enjoyed the bits of humor that were mixed in to lighten the darkness I hope we see more of Eve in the future.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 31, 2017
The Beautiful Dead by Belinda Bauer is a 2016 Bantam publication.
This is my first book by Belinda Bauer, but she’s definitely made an impression on me!
Eve Singer is a crime reporter with an aversion to the sight of blood. But, she works around that in her highly stressful and high profile position.
Like other news reporters, Eve attracts the attention of a serial killer who begins a gruesome game of cat and mouse with her, while Eve copes with job pressures and her father’s illness.
This book is a gritty serial killer novel, as well as a poignant portrayal of the familial heartbreak associated with Alzheimer’s, but the book also has a few lighter moments tossed in to offset the bleakness.
I liked Eve’s character, which is very well drawn, making her a person I respected and felt empathy for. She’s a little unconventional, but that’s part of the reason I liked her because it made her seem more realistic and human and it gives us a little insight into pressure crime reporters can live with.
The killer is sadistic and very creepy, and kept me on edge from start to finish. The showdown was slightly anticlimactic, but overall the suspense is taut, and the atmosphere is tense.
The plot is fast paced and the story has everything you could want from a crime drama. I liked that Eve was a crime reporter, instead of reading about detectives, or the usual police procedural or amateur sleuths, which made a nice change of pace for me.
I’m kicking myself for taking so long to discover this author. But, better late than never. I am definitely going to check out her previous and future releases!!
Overall, this is a very solid crime thriller I highly recommend to fans of this genre and this author.
This is my first book by Belinda Bauer, but she’s definitely made an impression on me!
Eve Singer is a crime reporter with an aversion to the sight of blood. But, she works around that in her highly stressful and high profile position.
Like other news reporters, Eve attracts the attention of a serial killer who begins a gruesome game of cat and mouse with her, while Eve copes with job pressures and her father’s illness.
This book is a gritty serial killer novel, as well as a poignant portrayal of the familial heartbreak associated with Alzheimer’s, but the book also has a few lighter moments tossed in to offset the bleakness.
I liked Eve’s character, which is very well drawn, making her a person I respected and felt empathy for. She’s a little unconventional, but that’s part of the reason I liked her because it made her seem more realistic and human and it gives us a little insight into pressure crime reporters can live with.
The killer is sadistic and very creepy, and kept me on edge from start to finish. The showdown was slightly anticlimactic, but overall the suspense is taut, and the atmosphere is tense.
The plot is fast paced and the story has everything you could want from a crime drama. I liked that Eve was a crime reporter, instead of reading about detectives, or the usual police procedural or amateur sleuths, which made a nice change of pace for me.
I’m kicking myself for taking so long to discover this author. But, better late than never. I am definitely going to check out her previous and future releases!!
Overall, this is a very solid crime thriller I highly recommend to fans of this genre and this author.
October 23, 2016
I received a copy of The Beautiful Dead through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Grove Atlantic and to Belinda Bauer for the opportunity.
"Nothing sold like murder and death was how she paid the mortgage."
Eve Singer is a crime correspondent for iWitnessNews. Death and its aftermath surrounded her like a tight-fitting woolen suit...scratchy, irritating, and leaving raw marks on its owner.
A frantic call comes into the news office that the body of a young woman has been found in an office building stairwell. The crime scene is heavily deposited with the victim's blood and Eve makes a horrid deposit of the contents of her stomach in the ladies room. This gruesome murder is the beginning of many attributed to a sociopath serial killer who leaves flyers for his "upcoming events".
Eve and her cameraman, Joe, are hot on the trail. But Eve is the sole caregiver for her father, Duncan, who suffers with dementia that sifts through his challenged mind. Father and daughter try to lodge together gaps in his mental state. Belinda Bauer touches so deftly on one scene in which Duncan requests a glass eye for Christmas. It is endearing and filled with mirth.
Belinda Bauer colors outside the lines in this one. It is a bit off the usual heavy straight and narrow plots that we've become accustomed to. Oh yes, there's quite the dollop of the very dark and horrendous here. But then, there is also the addition of a budding relationship happening that we don't often see. Perhaps just a different spin down a different path.
Bauer shifts gears once again and injects the creep factor into her storyline when the killer begins to contact Eve. Eve is drawn like moth to flame in order to get the scoop and to eye-witness first hand the demented mind of this killer. Technology avails the populace to view and be viewed. But as you step further into the story, you will experience the unforeseen price that she will eventually pay for a front row seat. And Bauer kicks it into a fierce race to the finish line.
I must say that Belinda Bauer is a treasure of an author that I have found recently this year. I'm piling up her books like stacks of delectable pancakes lately.....extremely satisfying and lip-smacking good.
"Nothing sold like murder and death was how she paid the mortgage."
Eve Singer is a crime correspondent for iWitnessNews. Death and its aftermath surrounded her like a tight-fitting woolen suit...scratchy, irritating, and leaving raw marks on its owner.
A frantic call comes into the news office that the body of a young woman has been found in an office building stairwell. The crime scene is heavily deposited with the victim's blood and Eve makes a horrid deposit of the contents of her stomach in the ladies room. This gruesome murder is the beginning of many attributed to a sociopath serial killer who leaves flyers for his "upcoming events".
Eve and her cameraman, Joe, are hot on the trail. But Eve is the sole caregiver for her father, Duncan, who suffers with dementia that sifts through his challenged mind. Father and daughter try to lodge together gaps in his mental state. Belinda Bauer touches so deftly on one scene in which Duncan requests a glass eye for Christmas. It is endearing and filled with mirth.
Belinda Bauer colors outside the lines in this one. It is a bit off the usual heavy straight and narrow plots that we've become accustomed to. Oh yes, there's quite the dollop of the very dark and horrendous here. But then, there is also the addition of a budding relationship happening that we don't often see. Perhaps just a different spin down a different path.
Bauer shifts gears once again and injects the creep factor into her storyline when the killer begins to contact Eve. Eve is drawn like moth to flame in order to get the scoop and to eye-witness first hand the demented mind of this killer. Technology avails the populace to view and be viewed. But as you step further into the story, you will experience the unforeseen price that she will eventually pay for a front row seat. And Bauer kicks it into a fierce race to the finish line.
I must say that Belinda Bauer is a treasure of an author that I have found recently this year. I'm piling up her books like stacks of delectable pancakes lately.....extremely satisfying and lip-smacking good.
December 10, 2016
Well, Belinda Bauer you have done it again. You chilled me, thrilled me, gave me some great characters I could relate too, likeable characters and an ending I loved. You managed to mix genres, psychological, at a time when I am burnt out with the sameness of many of them, police procedural and a kick ass officer, with all the elements of a thriller. Did it all very well too. Horrific killer, with limited graphic descriptions, well suited to wimpy readers, like myself. Pulse pounding moments combined with heartfelt moments between a father and daughter. You have quickly become one of my go to authors and I applaud you for your consistency and originality.
Arc from Netgalley.
Arc from Netgalley.
December 11, 2016
I read another book by Belinda Bauer last year that I didn't love because of some plot elements, but the book still left me thinking that she is a skillful writer. So I decided to read The Beautiful Dead to see if my issues were with Bauer or just some plot elements in her previous book, and I'm glad I did. The Beautiful Dead has a lot of the qualities that make me want to keep reading a book. Eve is a crime tv journalist who is worried about her career imploding. She lives with her father who is suffering from dementia. And somehow she piques the interest -- or obsession -- of a serial killer. The story is not as gruesome or gut wrenching as the description may sound, because Bauer really plays it at the psychological level. She tells the story from a few perspectives, including Eve's and the killer's perspectives. And Bauer does this very skilfully, especially in exploring the complexity of Eve's situation and her tangled motivations. Her relationship with her father adds an important dimension to the story that I found really compelling. Having read The Beautiful Dead, I would definitely read other books by Bauer. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read an advance copy.
April 18, 2017
4 Brilliant Stars
Eve Singer and the killer have something in common. They both need death. Eve reports death as a crime TV reporter and the killer advertises his exhibits and kills in public. Sounds disturbing and gruesome, but Belinda Bauer does a fantastic job of keeping this thriller light yet chilling and suspenseful. What really drew me into this chilling story was the well-drawn character and the witty and warm relationships Eve has with them. We also get a glimpse into the killer's head and learn a bit about what drives him to kill. Giving a slightly different twist to the story.
The Beautiful Dead is chilling, yet warm, witty, and a clever fast paced race to stop a killer. This is my first book by Belinda Bauer and won't be my last.
All of Norma’s & my reviews can be found on our Sister Blog:
http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...
Eve Singer and the killer have something in common. They both need death. Eve reports death as a crime TV reporter and the killer advertises his exhibits and kills in public. Sounds disturbing and gruesome, but Belinda Bauer does a fantastic job of keeping this thriller light yet chilling and suspenseful. What really drew me into this chilling story was the well-drawn character and the witty and warm relationships Eve has with them. We also get a glimpse into the killer's head and learn a bit about what drives him to kill. Giving a slightly different twist to the story.
The Beautiful Dead is chilling, yet warm, witty, and a clever fast paced race to stop a killer. This is my first book by Belinda Bauer and won't be my last.
All of Norma’s & my reviews can be found on our Sister Blog:
http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...
November 6, 2020
**SINCE I READ THIS BOOK IN 2016 THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA HAS TRIPLED. I THOUGHT I WOULD REPOST THIS AS IT'S A GOOD LOOK AT THE THINGS THAT CAN GO SO WRONG WHEN WE RALLY AROUND UNRELIABLE NARRATORS AND RANDOM VIDEO FROM SMARTPHONES**
I have long been a fan of Belinda Bauer, “Rubbernecker” and “The Shut Eye” are two of my all time favorite thriller/mysteries. I was so thrilled to receive a copy of “The Beautiful Dead” and I am thankful to the publisher and NetGalley for this opportunity to read and review.
The power of this book, as in her previous novels, comes from the highly character driven plots. In this book Eve Singer is a crime reporter that works on some of the most gruesome violent crimes. She is very good at what she does, but this time, the killer makes it personal.
Eve starts to receive calls from the killer with clues as to his next murder, this of course gets her on the scene before other reporters and her boss is ecstatic. Eve begins to wonder what price the killer will be asking for?? What are his motives in connecting to Eve?? She begins to become increasingly aware of the danger she has put herself in and maybe also those she loves.
We see another side of Eve as she has moved back home to care for her father who has severe dementia. She is a thoughtful, caring and loving daughter who is doing the best she can to care for the father she has always loved while balancing extreme stress at work and paying the bills.
This novel brings to light the impact of social media on news reporting. News is so quickly and graphically available to the public there is a constant desire to “one up” everyone and get the largest share of the audience. This book made me think about how numb we have all become when we are constantly fed this graphically gory news. Where will it end?? Do we really need to view this amount of violence perpetrated on others? Do killers feed off of the news coverage, in this case a highly sociopathic serial killer?
This book has everything. The characters are unique and well developed, the supporting cast as well as the main characters. The pace is quick and the writing is exceptional. I would recommend this book to everyone who wants to immerse themselves in a well written thriller as this is easily a one sit read since it is very hard to put it down.
I have long been a fan of Belinda Bauer, “Rubbernecker” and “The Shut Eye” are two of my all time favorite thriller/mysteries. I was so thrilled to receive a copy of “The Beautiful Dead” and I am thankful to the publisher and NetGalley for this opportunity to read and review.
The power of this book, as in her previous novels, comes from the highly character driven plots. In this book Eve Singer is a crime reporter that works on some of the most gruesome violent crimes. She is very good at what she does, but this time, the killer makes it personal.
Eve starts to receive calls from the killer with clues as to his next murder, this of course gets her on the scene before other reporters and her boss is ecstatic. Eve begins to wonder what price the killer will be asking for?? What are his motives in connecting to Eve?? She begins to become increasingly aware of the danger she has put herself in and maybe also those she loves.
We see another side of Eve as she has moved back home to care for her father who has severe dementia. She is a thoughtful, caring and loving daughter who is doing the best she can to care for the father she has always loved while balancing extreme stress at work and paying the bills.
This novel brings to light the impact of social media on news reporting. News is so quickly and graphically available to the public there is a constant desire to “one up” everyone and get the largest share of the audience. This book made me think about how numb we have all become when we are constantly fed this graphically gory news. Where will it end?? Do we really need to view this amount of violence perpetrated on others? Do killers feed off of the news coverage, in this case a highly sociopathic serial killer?
This book has everything. The characters are unique and well developed, the supporting cast as well as the main characters. The pace is quick and the writing is exceptional. I would recommend this book to everyone who wants to immerse themselves in a well written thriller as this is easily a one sit read since it is very hard to put it down.
December 27, 2016
4.5 stars!
I think (and hope) that I am going to love anything this author puts on paper. She has such a unique writing style where she can say so much, but without a lot of fluff or wasted words.
This would have been a 2 day read for me if it hadn't been for the holidays pulling me away. I able to sneak chapters in here and there as often as I could, and anxiously awaited the next time I could get my hands on this.
Brief summary:
Eve Singer is a crime reporter who unintentionally captures the eye of a deeply disturbed serial killer. This killer meticulously plans out and executes horrific murders, which he views as his artwork, or exhibitions. He manipulates Eve to help him get the world to 'see' his masterpieces, until he takes it too close to home.
I really liked Eve. I found her very relatable and liked how the author showed us her strengths AND vulnerabilities. She had big career plans for herself but instead had to move back home to take care of her father, who has dementia.
The scenes with her Father where hard to read, especially when you have a Mother who has been diagnosed with this disease personally. But they felt real, and scary, and sad.
If I have to give any criticism it would be that I wanted a bit more backstory on the antagonist, and would have liked a longer showdown between the killer and Eve at the end. I think this felt a bit rushed, even though there was nice closure provided.
If you haven't experienced this author, you need to make it happen. Read this or any of her other books as they are all stand outs to me!
ARC provided by NetGalley
I think (and hope) that I am going to love anything this author puts on paper. She has such a unique writing style where she can say so much, but without a lot of fluff or wasted words.
This would have been a 2 day read for me if it hadn't been for the holidays pulling me away. I able to sneak chapters in here and there as often as I could, and anxiously awaited the next time I could get my hands on this.
Brief summary:
Eve Singer is a crime reporter who unintentionally captures the eye of a deeply disturbed serial killer. This killer meticulously plans out and executes horrific murders, which he views as his artwork, or exhibitions. He manipulates Eve to help him get the world to 'see' his masterpieces, until he takes it too close to home.
I really liked Eve. I found her very relatable and liked how the author showed us her strengths AND vulnerabilities. She had big career plans for herself but instead had to move back home to take care of her father, who has dementia.
The scenes with her Father where hard to read, especially when you have a Mother who has been diagnosed with this disease personally. But they felt real, and scary, and sad.
If I have to give any criticism it would be that I wanted a bit more backstory on the antagonist, and would have liked a longer showdown between the killer and Eve at the end. I think this felt a bit rushed, even though there was nice closure provided.
If you haven't experienced this author, you need to make it happen. Read this or any of her other books as they are all stand outs to me!
ARC provided by NetGalley
February 5, 2017
When I discovered Belinda Bauer two years ago, I devoured her books and loved every one of them. So it saddens me to say I didn't love this one.
"If it bleeds, it leads" is an old adage in the news business. Main character Eve and her cameraman, Joe, compete with other news groups to get to the scene first, get the bloodiest view, and always get the body bag in the shot. I didn't like Eve at first, but then I was more forgiving when I learned she gave up her dreams to go home and care for her father who has dementia. In spite of the seriousness of this affliction, her father, Duncan, provides humorous relief from the darkness of the serial killer who is now focused on Eve. Add to the mix the dawning of feelings between Eve and Joe.
I was about halfway through the book, expecting and waiting for the BAM, the shock, the twist. It never came. Sure, the characters and dialogue are strong, but the story feels weak. The potential was there, I think, but the pace and tension weren't fully developed.
Were my expectations too high? I don't think so. There is always an expectation of quality from authors we love, and I feel like, with this book, I got Belinda Bauer Lite. Still, I'm giving this four stars because Duncan alone makes this better than a three-star book.
"If it bleeds, it leads" is an old adage in the news business. Main character Eve and her cameraman, Joe, compete with other news groups to get to the scene first, get the bloodiest view, and always get the body bag in the shot. I didn't like Eve at first, but then I was more forgiving when I learned she gave up her dreams to go home and care for her father who has dementia. In spite of the seriousness of this affliction, her father, Duncan, provides humorous relief from the darkness of the serial killer who is now focused on Eve. Add to the mix the dawning of feelings between Eve and Joe.
I was about halfway through the book, expecting and waiting for the BAM, the shock, the twist. It never came. Sure, the characters and dialogue are strong, but the story feels weak. The potential was there, I think, but the pace and tension weren't fully developed.
Were my expectations too high? I don't think so. There is always an expectation of quality from authors we love, and I feel like, with this book, I got Belinda Bauer Lite. Still, I'm giving this four stars because Duncan alone makes this better than a three-star book.
December 8, 2019
I added it to my uputdownable shelf ironically because life came between me and this book too many damn times.
It was near- perfect. I'm a consumer of Christies and I can quote Sherlock in my sleep. This modern crime thriller is a few psychos short of a mindfuck.
That said, it was a cool book. No need for a long review. It was a pretty straightforward book. There's a girl. There's a serial killer. There's a dad suffering from senile dementia. There's a romantic interest. There's a newsroom. There's a... Ok, it's not that straightforward. It's actually pretty fucking cool.
This was me after I finished the book.
Try it.
I dare you.
It was near- perfect. I'm a consumer of Christies and I can quote Sherlock in my sleep. This modern crime thriller is a few psychos short of a mindfuck.
That said, it was a cool book. No need for a long review. It was a pretty straightforward book. There's a girl. There's a serial killer. There's a dad suffering from senile dementia. There's a romantic interest. There's a newsroom. There's a... Ok, it's not that straightforward. It's actually pretty fucking cool.
This was me after I finished the book.
Try it.
I dare you.
January 3, 2017
I really liked The Beautiful Dead by Belinda Bauer. I didn't love it. Which is saying something as I absolutely loved the other two books I have read by this author.
Right up until the very last second, Layla Martin didn't believe that she would - or could - be murdered. She knew that something would save her. It didn't.
'Eve Singer needs death. With her career as a TV crime reporter flagging, she’ll do anything to satisfy her ghoulish audience.
The killer needs death too. He even advertises his macabre public performances, where he hopes to show the whole world the beauty of dying.
When he contacts Eve, she welcomes the chance to be first with the news from every gory scene. Until she realizes that the killer has two obsessions.
One is public murder.
And the other one is her . . .'
The first third of The Beautiful Dead had my heart pounding, and I was holding my breath as I read, it was so tense. But after that, it lost a little bit of impetus for me. Well, maybe not impetus, but it lost that certain something that sets your heart pounding and makes you unconsciously hold your breath. I know it is difficult to keep up that sort of tension. I know the value of sucker-punching the reader in the first chapter to grab their attention. And I love it. But you really do need to follow through. And while it was a likeable enough read, really, it just began to get rather implausible and continued in that vein.
There are some humorous moments scattered in amongst the death......Eve's father has Alzheimer's, and his antics are responsible for most of these moments. Joe, Eve's cameraman, for a few others.
It is not a bad read. But it wasn't the compelling 'can't put this book down, go away, don't disturb me' read that I have come to expect from Bauer.
3.5 stars from me (upgraded to 4 because I love Bauer).
Thank you to NetGalley and Grove Atlantic for providing a review copy of The Beautiful Dead by Belinda Bauer. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Right up until the very last second, Layla Martin didn't believe that she would - or could - be murdered. She knew that something would save her. It didn't.
'Eve Singer needs death. With her career as a TV crime reporter flagging, she’ll do anything to satisfy her ghoulish audience.
The killer needs death too. He even advertises his macabre public performances, where he hopes to show the whole world the beauty of dying.
When he contacts Eve, she welcomes the chance to be first with the news from every gory scene. Until she realizes that the killer has two obsessions.
One is public murder.
And the other one is her . . .'
The first third of The Beautiful Dead had my heart pounding, and I was holding my breath as I read, it was so tense. But after that, it lost a little bit of impetus for me. Well, maybe not impetus, but it lost that certain something that sets your heart pounding and makes you unconsciously hold your breath. I know it is difficult to keep up that sort of tension. I know the value of sucker-punching the reader in the first chapter to grab their attention. And I love it. But you really do need to follow through. And while it was a likeable enough read, really, it just began to get rather implausible and continued in that vein.
There are some humorous moments scattered in amongst the death......Eve's father has Alzheimer's, and his antics are responsible for most of these moments. Joe, Eve's cameraman, for a few others.
It is not a bad read. But it wasn't the compelling 'can't put this book down, go away, don't disturb me' read that I have come to expect from Bauer.
3.5 stars from me (upgraded to 4 because I love Bauer).
Thank you to NetGalley and Grove Atlantic for providing a review copy of The Beautiful Dead by Belinda Bauer. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
January 3, 2017
This is my first time reading a book by this author and I am glad I read it. What in intriguing story. This is not your usual thriller, that's for sure. What surprised me the most is the way the main characters met. Had it been me, I think there would be a very different outcome than from what it was for the main characters. I think doing the job Eve does makes her the perfect connection for the killer to showcast his groesome murders. At first that's exactly what will make Eve's job more secure but there is a fine line between being a victim and being just a bystander. When the killer gets to know Eve more and more, his obsession, that he in the end calls love, takes on a deadly turn for Eve. He loves the 'art of dying' but in the end when he's the one to become his art, he behaves like any other ordinary human. He is afraid of death.
I really liked the plot and characters. Each one is unique and interesting. I'm not a fan of the killer but the way he sees his deeds is quite astonishing. And that's just shows what a great author Belinda is.
I defintiely enjoyed the story and I highly recommend it!
I really liked the plot and characters. Each one is unique and interesting. I'm not a fan of the killer but the way he sees his deeds is quite astonishing. And that's just shows what a great author Belinda is.
I defintiely enjoyed the story and I highly recommend it!
September 2, 2016
Once I knew Belinda Bauer had a new novel due out I was eager to read it. So when offered the chance to read this book four months before the release date I couldn't wait to start it. I have read all of this authors work and have never been let down by the standard and this was no exception. This fast paced novel is strong from start to finish with a unique mix of humour for a book so dark.
The story follows Eve Singer who is a TV crime reporter who is struggling to make a success of her career while looking after her father who has dementia. A psychopathic murderer begins a series of gruesome murders and chooses Eve to help promote his rampage. The killer becomes obsessed with her and Eve realises there’s a thin line between inside information and becoming an accomplice to murder—possibly her own.
This will be yet another successful novel and I am sure will be one of the top reads of 2017.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Atlantic Monthly Press for supplying me with a preview copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review.
The story follows Eve Singer who is a TV crime reporter who is struggling to make a success of her career while looking after her father who has dementia. A psychopathic murderer begins a series of gruesome murders and chooses Eve to help promote his rampage. The killer becomes obsessed with her and Eve realises there’s a thin line between inside information and becoming an accomplice to murder—possibly her own.
This will be yet another successful novel and I am sure will be one of the top reads of 2017.
I would like to thank Net Galley and Atlantic Monthly Press for supplying me with a preview copy of this novel in exchange for a honest review.
November 25, 2016
Eve Singer relies on death to keep her career as TV crime reporter alive. The serial killer who is terrorising the citizens of London in the run-up to Christmas needs death for his own bizarre reasons. In his eyes, he and Eve are alike, wanting the same things. The killer becomes increasingly obsessed with Eve and as she becomes more involved with his gruesome public displays, it's not just her job that she is in danger of losing.
I've become a huge Belinda Bauer fan over the last 18 months and this was another gripping thriller by her. Compared to her other books that I have read, this one had a different feel to it, though.
While characterization was generally strong, I didn't feel the serial killer received the same kind of attention to detail, he remained a little flat at times. But I really enjoyed following Eve's relationship with her father, Duncan, who suffers from dementia. It was incredibly well portrayed and very poignant. The chase to catch the serial killer almost played second fiddle to following Eve and her struggles with her job and her Dad, her budding relationship with her colleague, and the interesting relationship with her neighbor. I love Ms. Bauer's writing style. It's tense and suspenseful but there is always that nice touch of humor that stops it from getting too dark. Very enjoyable!
I've become a huge Belinda Bauer fan over the last 18 months and this was another gripping thriller by her. Compared to her other books that I have read, this one had a different feel to it, though.
While characterization was generally strong, I didn't feel the serial killer received the same kind of attention to detail, he remained a little flat at times. But I really enjoyed following Eve's relationship with her father, Duncan, who suffers from dementia. It was incredibly well portrayed and very poignant. The chase to catch the serial killer almost played second fiddle to following Eve and her struggles with her job and her Dad, her budding relationship with her colleague, and the interesting relationship with her neighbor. I love Ms. Bauer's writing style. It's tense and suspenseful but there is always that nice touch of humor that stops it from getting too dark. Very enjoyable!
December 2, 2016
“Be honest, dear reader, who wouldn’t rather be dead?”
The killer in Belinda Bauer’s latest thriller is obsessed with the beauty of death, with its artistry, with all its rich pageantry. He kills in public places. He even announces his kills before he commits them. He fly-posts, warning of an ‘exhibition’, giving the date and time. Our killer needs an audience.
So does our heroine. Eve Singer is a crime reporter on a TV news channel. She and her trusty side-kick, cameraman Joe, race to be first on the scene of any violent crime, to catch the blood gleaming on the pavement before it cools, to record the last words of the murder victim.
Two halves of the same coin; and then chance brings them together. From that moment on, the killer has two obsessions. Death and Eve. He makes contact. She is torn between knowing she has to report him to the police, and wanting to get the scoop of her career. As he reels her in, we become ever more scared that the next murder she attends could well be her own.
Belinda has many strengths as a writer. The originality of her plots, her trade-mark black humour, her stylish similes, but it is her characters which really bring this book to life. The hard-nosed crime reporter is a bit of a cliché in crime writing but we soon come to love kind, patient, troubled Eve. We adore Joe. We’re fond of Eve’s elderly father Duncan, and her nosy next door neighbour. Such is Belinda’s skill, though, that we find ourselves caring rather too much about characters she swiftly kills off. I nearly got her on the phone to complain when one particular victim met an untimely end.
All in all a thoroughly enjoyable, beautifully written, suspenseful thriller. Exactly what we’ve come to expect from Belinda.
January 11, 2017
There’s no safety in numbers . . .
Eve Singer needs death. With her career as a TV crime reporter flagging, she’ll do anything to satisfy her ghoulish audience.
The killer needs death too. He even advertises his macabre public performances, where he hopes to show the whole world the beauty of dying.
When he contacts Eve, she welcomes the chance to be first with the news from every gory scene. Until she realises that the killer has two obsessions.
One is public murder.
And the other is her . . .
This is my first experience reading a book by Belinda Bauer and what a great read it is. I adored her writing style. Keeping it very tense and chilling, but including some real tongue in the cheek humor, which complemented the story beautifully.
In no way is this your average, normal serial killer, if there is such a thing, but the killer likes a stage, wants people to watch and see the atrocities, killings created.
Eve Singer is a brilliant character. Forced to move back home when her father is deteriorating with Dementia. There are some very sweet and moving moments in these scenes and once again the genius humor portrays. In no way laughing at the condition, but the reality of what it must be like living under those circumstances.
It kept me very alert and intrigued. I thought it was a shift from a mainstream psychological thriller or crime fiction, just a bit different and quirky. Extremely clever writing, cleverly plotted and you get a real feel for the characters. A real intriguing, suspenseful page turner.
Certainly recommended! I enjoyed it - A good 4*
Eve Singer needs death. With her career as a TV crime reporter flagging, she’ll do anything to satisfy her ghoulish audience.
The killer needs death too. He even advertises his macabre public performances, where he hopes to show the whole world the beauty of dying.
When he contacts Eve, she welcomes the chance to be first with the news from every gory scene. Until she realises that the killer has two obsessions.
One is public murder.
And the other is her . . .
This is my first experience reading a book by Belinda Bauer and what a great read it is. I adored her writing style. Keeping it very tense and chilling, but including some real tongue in the cheek humor, which complemented the story beautifully.
In no way is this your average, normal serial killer, if there is such a thing, but the killer likes a stage, wants people to watch and see the atrocities, killings created.
Eve Singer is a brilliant character. Forced to move back home when her father is deteriorating with Dementia. There are some very sweet and moving moments in these scenes and once again the genius humor portrays. In no way laughing at the condition, but the reality of what it must be like living under those circumstances.
It kept me very alert and intrigued. I thought it was a shift from a mainstream psychological thriller or crime fiction, just a bit different and quirky. Extremely clever writing, cleverly plotted and you get a real feel for the characters. A real intriguing, suspenseful page turner.
Certainly recommended! I enjoyed it - A good 4*
November 13, 2016
Eve Singer is a TV Crime reporter struggling to keep her job. Her boss is demanding more and more of the macabre crimes. If it bleeds it leads ... and he wants pictures of the blood and gore.
She's now covering a series of murders each more gruesome than the last. Each of the murders are committed in public and arranged almost like an art exhibition. Her ratings are going up but they literally explode when the killer chooses Eve to promote his 'story'.
Eve is okay to do that as the killer will give her the heads up to be the very first person to see his "work". But then he says something that really reaches her ... You're just like me, Eve. That's when she begins to think about her career .... a career built of the bones and blood of the dead and tears of the bereaved.
But when he kidnaps her father, Eve decides enough is enough.
The serial killer and the things he does to his victims is not new .... but this author makes him more brutal than most. And the reason why he does the things he does will blow your mind.
This is an exceptionally well written book with characters that have a life of their own. There were moments I did not like Eve ... she does things that go against the norm for me. But there are times I admire her strength, her courage, her determination.
This is not the first Belinda Bauer book I've read ... it certainly won't be the last.
I chose to read THE BEAUTIFUL DEAD and all expressed opinions are unbiased and entirely my own.
Many thanks to the author / Grove Atlantic - Atlantic Monthly Press / Netgalley.
She's now covering a series of murders each more gruesome than the last. Each of the murders are committed in public and arranged almost like an art exhibition. Her ratings are going up but they literally explode when the killer chooses Eve to promote his 'story'.
Eve is okay to do that as the killer will give her the heads up to be the very first person to see his "work". But then he says something that really reaches her ... You're just like me, Eve. That's when she begins to think about her career .... a career built of the bones and blood of the dead and tears of the bereaved.
But when he kidnaps her father, Eve decides enough is enough.
The serial killer and the things he does to his victims is not new .... but this author makes him more brutal than most. And the reason why he does the things he does will blow your mind.
This is an exceptionally well written book with characters that have a life of their own. There were moments I did not like Eve ... she does things that go against the norm for me. But there are times I admire her strength, her courage, her determination.
This is not the first Belinda Bauer book I've read ... it certainly won't be the last.
I chose to read THE BEAUTIFUL DEAD and all expressed opinions are unbiased and entirely my own.
Many thanks to the author / Grove Atlantic - Atlantic Monthly Press / Netgalley.
October 13, 2016
Thank you to Netgalley, Grove Atlantic publishers, and author Belinda Bauer for extending me an advanced copy of “The Beautiful Dead” in exchange for an honest review.
Well, as honest as my review can be since I am a huge fan of Belinda Bauer and have loved her books. I never miss getting her latest one.
“The Beautiful Dead” is another fabulous book by this author. Eve Singer is a reporter for one of the constant-on-news networks. She is always battling to get a scoop on a story and beat out the competition (so true today right?). Eve covers what is known as the “meat beat” which means all the homicides to get pictures of the crime scene, the body bag and even the grieving family. Not exactly a wonderful thing but Eve hopes someday to move on.
In the meantime, homicides always seem to be taking place. But one particular killer feels a connection to Eve and soon she has more information than most on the occurring homicides. But at what price?
Excellent writing, tension, and page-turning in this book. Belinda Bauer keeps getting it right!
Well, as honest as my review can be since I am a huge fan of Belinda Bauer and have loved her books. I never miss getting her latest one.
“The Beautiful Dead” is another fabulous book by this author. Eve Singer is a reporter for one of the constant-on-news networks. She is always battling to get a scoop on a story and beat out the competition (so true today right?). Eve covers what is known as the “meat beat” which means all the homicides to get pictures of the crime scene, the body bag and even the grieving family. Not exactly a wonderful thing but Eve hopes someday to move on.
In the meantime, homicides always seem to be taking place. But one particular killer feels a connection to Eve and soon she has more information than most on the occurring homicides. But at what price?
Excellent writing, tension, and page-turning in this book. Belinda Bauer keeps getting it right!
September 27, 2016
The Beautiful Dead is another one sitting brilliantly absorbing crime drama from the pen of Belinda Bauer - right at the top of the game in the crime genre right now and this one is an absolute corker.
I mean you can't go wrong really when the story is utterly addictive, the characters utterly divinely authentic and the plot is unpredictable with no compromise on the fear factor with a genuinely fascinating concept.
The serial killer thriller is not new. Yet somehow Ms Bauer manages to make it FEEL new especially when its not really about that. Or not for me anyway. For me it was all about Eve (yes I did that) and her struggle to manage a relative with dementia, a hard hitting and uncompromising career and her own self doubt. When she inadvertantly comes to the attention of a madman she is tested to her limits - and this is where the author comes into her own - making you feel every moment of Eve's inner struggle and outer actions.
Peppered with a strong and intriguing supporting cast, a fast moving and often edge of the seat plot and a killer whose motivations are just as compelling as the woman he obsesses over, The Beautiful Dead just rocks on every level. Awesome reading. Brilliant writing.
Thats all folks!
I mean you can't go wrong really when the story is utterly addictive, the characters utterly divinely authentic and the plot is unpredictable with no compromise on the fear factor with a genuinely fascinating concept.
The serial killer thriller is not new. Yet somehow Ms Bauer manages to make it FEEL new especially when its not really about that. Or not for me anyway. For me it was all about Eve (yes I did that) and her struggle to manage a relative with dementia, a hard hitting and uncompromising career and her own self doubt. When she inadvertantly comes to the attention of a madman she is tested to her limits - and this is where the author comes into her own - making you feel every moment of Eve's inner struggle and outer actions.
Peppered with a strong and intriguing supporting cast, a fast moving and often edge of the seat plot and a killer whose motivations are just as compelling as the woman he obsesses over, The Beautiful Dead just rocks on every level. Awesome reading. Brilliant writing.
Thats all folks!
January 5, 2018
A fast-paced and tense mystery/thriller about Eve, a tough and ambitious crime reporter who besides trying to cope with the daily demands of her career and her father who has dementia, catches the attention of a narcissistic and demented serial killer who believes his murders to be artistic creations and demands Eve to "review" them in her reports.
August 19, 2018
Not for me. Clichéd and irritating.
September 11, 2016
3.5 stars
Eve Singer is a TV crime reporter on the “meat beat”. She’s on the scene of London’s latest homicide to bring the gory details to her viewers, hopefully with a body bag in the background. When she inadvertently runs into the killer that night, he begins to contact her with clues about his future victims. As he puts it “we’re in the same line of work, you & I. I need people to die in order to live….and so do you”.
It’s an interesting comment on the plethora of gory scenes available for instant viewing thanks to cell phones & social media. News outlets are under increasing pressure to up the shock value of reports in an attempt to lure audiences away from their latest selfie or twitter update.
This is a quick, easy read for those who like romantic suspense mixed with a truly creepy bad guy. He provides the gravitas while Eve & her circle of colleagues would fit easily into a cozy mystery. She’s a perky can-do sort dealing with a younger rival at work, a father with dementia & a budding romance with her cameraman.
The author has created a killer with an original motive & fans of lighter crime fiction with a touch of humour should enjoy this well paced story.
Eve Singer is a TV crime reporter on the “meat beat”. She’s on the scene of London’s latest homicide to bring the gory details to her viewers, hopefully with a body bag in the background. When she inadvertently runs into the killer that night, he begins to contact her with clues about his future victims. As he puts it “we’re in the same line of work, you & I. I need people to die in order to live….and so do you”.
It’s an interesting comment on the plethora of gory scenes available for instant viewing thanks to cell phones & social media. News outlets are under increasing pressure to up the shock value of reports in an attempt to lure audiences away from their latest selfie or twitter update.
This is a quick, easy read for those who like romantic suspense mixed with a truly creepy bad guy. He provides the gravitas while Eve & her circle of colleagues would fit easily into a cozy mystery. She’s a perky can-do sort dealing with a younger rival at work, a father with dementia & a budding romance with her cameraman.
The author has created a killer with an original motive & fans of lighter crime fiction with a touch of humour should enjoy this well paced story.
Read
August 27, 2016Absolutely bloody brilliant! I am a HUGE fan of Belinda Bauer's books. So much so that I almost feel sick with jealousy when I finish one. She's an incredibly talented author and The Beautiful Dead was everything I hoped it would be. It was perfectly crafted (the prose is fabulous), pacy, clever, compelling and liberally sprinkled with deliciously dark humour. I won't summarise the plot - you can get that from the blurb - but I will say that I had NO IDEA how the story was going to pan out and my heart was in my mouth as the novel reached its thrilling climax. A masterclass in storytelling. Crime novels don't get much better than this. I loved it.
July 4, 2021
There were parts of this that were really riveting...they just weren't always together. Eve was your usual character that didn't always think through what she was going to do next...which of course caused trouble. I also didn't think the reason for why the serial killer was killing all these people made a lot of sense...but I guess it did if you were THE serial killer. Eve's father suffered from Alzheimer and did, and had, some interesting and funny moments just before he had moments that would break you heart. Overall it was a worth while read that had a very good wrap-up.
November 20, 2016
All of my reviews can be found on www.novelgossip.com
I’ve been waiting to read this one for months having heard great things about it from other reviewers and I was really happy when I realized that release date was finally here and I could pick it up! It’s been taunting me from my shelf for months now, that cover is simply stunning and it’s even more striking in person. I may have even gave it a little pat or two. (That’s for you Chelsea! #bookpetter
I’ve been waiting to read this one for months having heard great things about it from other reviewers and I was really happy when I realized that release date was finally here and I could pick it up! It’s been taunting me from my shelf for months now, that cover is simply stunning and it’s even more striking in person. I may have even gave it a little pat or two. (That’s for you Chelsea! #bookpetter
November 6, 2019
A little more than 4 stars, because there were a few unlikely situations. In general I loved the story and the pace in which it was written.
February 6, 2020
Library Heaven.
It is always a pleasure to read a book by Belinda Bauer. She has comic observation and a real ear for dialogue. All of her characters seep from the page into 3D form as her pen portraits establish in wonderfully crisp and clever prose real people. It is the facts she shares when building their biog or sharing their details briefly that gives them an essence and a familiarity that maintains the readers interest and propels the story.
She also has a rich talent to play with words or phrases and as humourists do to make witticism she shares in a literary sense. For example "shoes were killing her." and "living on borrowed time."
It is great to celebrate a thriller a book of the day that doesn't have 'Girl' in the title. However, in Eve Singer we have a character who will be long remembered. As a news braodcaster she is aware that she lives or dies by her ability to find the news first and beat her competitors to that exclusive news scoop. As a woman she knows her job depends on her good looks and ability to stay ahead of the field.
To save her from being a hardnosed bitch of a journalist the author gives her a hamster and a Father lost in his own mind with dementia. This is beautifully told within the heart of the book and it demonstrates yet again the talent and unique approach to storytelling Belinda Bauer has developed.
Her work in reporting the latest victim of a serial killer brings her to the killer's attention and he then wants to use her to highlight and publicise his murders which he believes is his art.
This throws up a modern twist to the role of media and TV violence; the desensitising of reality behind a camera lens, while other get off on vicarious violence and rubbernecking voyeurism.
I was interested in how this novel had touched this subject in a fresh and revealing manner and as I read part one thinking about these themes I was reminded of films I watched as a teenager. 'The eyes of Laura Mars' 'Blow Up' and 'Peeping Tom' came to mind. In finishing this original novel I applaud how the author has run with her ideas and made such a tight and credible plot.
Told in just a few days leading up to Christmas it is an Advent calendar of unspeakable horror and as a book stands alongside her impressive canon of work, thoughtful and genre stretching novels.
An ideal gift for Christmas but a book that will live on and grow throughout 2017.
It is always a pleasure to read a book by Belinda Bauer. She has comic observation and a real ear for dialogue. All of her characters seep from the page into 3D form as her pen portraits establish in wonderfully crisp and clever prose real people. It is the facts she shares when building their biog or sharing their details briefly that gives them an essence and a familiarity that maintains the readers interest and propels the story.
She also has a rich talent to play with words or phrases and as humourists do to make witticism she shares in a literary sense. For example "shoes were killing her." and "living on borrowed time."
It is great to celebrate a thriller a book of the day that doesn't have 'Girl' in the title. However, in Eve Singer we have a character who will be long remembered. As a news braodcaster she is aware that she lives or dies by her ability to find the news first and beat her competitors to that exclusive news scoop. As a woman she knows her job depends on her good looks and ability to stay ahead of the field.
To save her from being a hardnosed bitch of a journalist the author gives her a hamster and a Father lost in his own mind with dementia. This is beautifully told within the heart of the book and it demonstrates yet again the talent and unique approach to storytelling Belinda Bauer has developed.
Her work in reporting the latest victim of a serial killer brings her to the killer's attention and he then wants to use her to highlight and publicise his murders which he believes is his art.
This throws up a modern twist to the role of media and TV violence; the desensitising of reality behind a camera lens, while other get off on vicarious violence and rubbernecking voyeurism.
I was interested in how this novel had touched this subject in a fresh and revealing manner and as I read part one thinking about these themes I was reminded of films I watched as a teenager. 'The eyes of Laura Mars' 'Blow Up' and 'Peeping Tom' came to mind. In finishing this original novel I applaud how the author has run with her ideas and made such a tight and credible plot.
Told in just a few days leading up to Christmas it is an Advent calendar of unspeakable horror and as a book stands alongside her impressive canon of work, thoughtful and genre stretching novels.
An ideal gift for Christmas but a book that will live on and grow throughout 2017.
February 24, 2017
This is my first time reading a book by Belinda Bauer And it has quite a suspenseful beginning. There is actually suspense throughout this novel, a feeling that almost anything might happen to anyone. It also is a compulsively readable book. This really keeps moving. And it feeds on one of my primary concerns about today's journalism...what does a reporter need/have to do for a story or to succeed in the business, here, in TV news. In this telling, I also like the introspective views of many characters which adds depth to the story.
The Beautiful Dead is also a thriller to the very end. The story moves quickly, kept me wondering to the end, but, and there is a but, I found by the conclusion of the book that my decision of a couple years ago to primarily read mysteries that are not thrillers has been reinforced. Here there seems too much emphasis on the craziness, the mayhem, the horror of what madmen do. Also, in the end, I had some issues with elements of plot, the coincidences, realism, etc.
I must say, however, if you are one who enjoys the thriller component of mysteries, this really is a good book, and as I said above, a compulsively readable one. You will want to know what happens once you begin.
probably a 3.5*
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The Beautiful Dead is also a thriller to the very end. The story moves quickly, kept me wondering to the end, but, and there is a but, I found by the conclusion of the book that my decision of a couple years ago to primarily read mysteries that are not thrillers has been reinforced. Here there seems too much emphasis on the craziness, the mayhem, the horror of what madmen do. Also, in the end, I had some issues with elements of plot, the coincidences, realism, etc.
I must say, however, if you are one who enjoys the thriller component of mysteries, this really is a good book, and as I said above, a compulsively readable one. You will want to know what happens once you begin.
probably a 3.5*
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
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