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Lincoln Rhyme #14
The Cutting Edge
Coming soon to NBC as Lincoln, starring Russell Hornsby and Arielle Kebbel.
Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs return to New York City to investigate a triple murder and confront a killer terrorizing couples at their happiest--and most vulnerable in this explosive New York Times bestseller.
In the early hours of a quiet, weekend morning in Manhattan's Diamond District, a brutal triple murder shocks the city. Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs quickly take the case. Curiously, the killer has left behind a half-million dollars' worth of gems at the murder scene, a jewelry store on 47th street. As more crimes follow, it becomes clear that the killer's target is not gems, but engaged couples themselves.
The Promisor vows to take the lives of men and women during their most precious moments--midway through the purchase of an engagement ring, after a meeting with a wedding planner, trying on the perfect gown for a day that will never come. The Promisor arrives silently, armed with knife or gun, and a time of bliss is transformed, in an instant, to one of horror.
Soon the Promiser makes a dangerous mistake: leaving behind an innocent witness, Vimal Lahori, a talented young diamond cutter, who can help Rhyme and Sachs blow the lid off the case. They must track down Vimal before the killer can correct his fatal error. Then disaster strikes, threatening to tear apart the very fabric of the city--and providing the perfect cover for the killer to slip through the cracks.
Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs return to New York City to investigate a triple murder and confront a killer terrorizing couples at their happiest--and most vulnerable in this explosive New York Times bestseller.
In the early hours of a quiet, weekend morning in Manhattan's Diamond District, a brutal triple murder shocks the city. Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs quickly take the case. Curiously, the killer has left behind a half-million dollars' worth of gems at the murder scene, a jewelry store on 47th street. As more crimes follow, it becomes clear that the killer's target is not gems, but engaged couples themselves.
The Promisor vows to take the lives of men and women during their most precious moments--midway through the purchase of an engagement ring, after a meeting with a wedding planner, trying on the perfect gown for a day that will never come. The Promisor arrives silently, armed with knife or gun, and a time of bliss is transformed, in an instant, to one of horror.
Soon the Promiser makes a dangerous mistake: leaving behind an innocent witness, Vimal Lahori, a talented young diamond cutter, who can help Rhyme and Sachs blow the lid off the case. They must track down Vimal before the killer can correct his fatal error. Then disaster strikes, threatening to tear apart the very fabric of the city--and providing the perfect cover for the killer to slip through the cracks.
434 pages, Hardcover
First published April 10, 2018
2459 people are currently reading
11207 people want to read
About the author
Jeffery Deaver
509 books11.7k followers#1 international bestselling author of over thirty novels and three collections of short stories. His books are sold in 150 countries and translated into 25 languages. His first novel featuring Lincoln Rhyme, The Bone Collector, was made into a major motion picture starring Denzel Washington and Angelina Jolie. He's received or been shortlisted for a number of awards around the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 974 reviews
March 29, 2018
Back in the saddle with Jeffery Deaver and his crime fighting duo Amelia Sachs and Lincoln Rhyme. Although I've read most of the books in this series I can't help but picture Rhyme as Denzel Washington and Sachs as Angelina Jolie because of The Bone Collector movie I saw year before picking up the book of the same title. I know, I know Rhyme is nowhere near being a black dude but this is what happens when I see movies before reading the book. The actors used in the movie are somehow imprinted on my brain and I can't quite get them out. But that's neither here nor there.
Let's get to The Cutting Edge and unsub 47.
Jeffery Deaver begins The Cutting Edge similarly to how he begins other titles in the Rhyme series. An unwitting victim encounters a killer who shows no mercy. Unsub 47, aka the Promisor is no different. He kills with no remorse. Rhyme and Sachs are hired on a consulting basis to analyze the evidence and assist the police in catching the SOB.
What is so enticing about Deaver novels is that yes, they are somewhat formulaic, there's still no shortage of misdirection and suspense. The chapters are short so reading his titles are fast and easy. For those, like myself, who are familiar with the main characters, Deaver doesn't spend much time on them. Instead, we are privy to the inner workings of the deranged killer that's attempting to stay a step or two ahead of the Rhyme team in an effort to complete his goal. It's the moments when getting acquainted with the unsub I feel are the most engaging and probably the reason I love Deaver novels so much.
Those looking to read the Rhyme series in the hopes of some amazingly, well written, literary trope through the gritty world of forensic science is barking up the wrong tree. Even though I do feel like I was given a ton of interesting knowledge into the world of diamonds, that fact is simply a plus. There's nothing complicated here except whodunnit. I'm not even trying to be a snob when disclosing this information. I'm simply letting anyone who happens to read this novel and wants to dive into Deaver's world, there's nothing but action here.
I suggest you strap in for the ride.
Suffice it to say, The Cutting Edge is a formidable addition to the Lincoln Rhyme series. I am happy to have taken this wild ride full of colorful, ruthless characters that may or may not have a secret hidden agenda. Jeffery Deaver grabs your attention and refuses to let go until he's ready.
Copy provided by Grand Central Publishing via Netgalley
Let's get to The Cutting Edge and unsub 47.
Jeffery Deaver begins The Cutting Edge similarly to how he begins other titles in the Rhyme series. An unwitting victim encounters a killer who shows no mercy. Unsub 47, aka the Promisor is no different. He kills with no remorse. Rhyme and Sachs are hired on a consulting basis to analyze the evidence and assist the police in catching the SOB.
What is so enticing about Deaver novels is that yes, they are somewhat formulaic, there's still no shortage of misdirection and suspense. The chapters are short so reading his titles are fast and easy. For those, like myself, who are familiar with the main characters, Deaver doesn't spend much time on them. Instead, we are privy to the inner workings of the deranged killer that's attempting to stay a step or two ahead of the Rhyme team in an effort to complete his goal. It's the moments when getting acquainted with the unsub I feel are the most engaging and probably the reason I love Deaver novels so much.
Those looking to read the Rhyme series in the hopes of some amazingly, well written, literary trope through the gritty world of forensic science is barking up the wrong tree. Even though I do feel like I was given a ton of interesting knowledge into the world of diamonds, that fact is simply a plus. There's nothing complicated here except whodunnit. I'm not even trying to be a snob when disclosing this information. I'm simply letting anyone who happens to read this novel and wants to dive into Deaver's world, there's nothing but action here.
I suggest you strap in for the ride.
Suffice it to say, The Cutting Edge is a formidable addition to the Lincoln Rhyme series. I am happy to have taken this wild ride full of colorful, ruthless characters that may or may not have a secret hidden agenda. Jeffery Deaver grabs your attention and refuses to let go until he's ready.
Copy provided by Grand Central Publishing via Netgalley
July 6, 2022
Another solid entry in the Lincoln Rhymes and company series.
It’s been awhile since I’ve read a Deaver book and I’d forgotten how much I enjoyed all the science the reader is treated to during each investigation.
This book takes the reader from NYC’s illustrious diamond district to the mines of South Africa. It also produces a myriad of characters who may be villains, heroes or both.
One of the story threads seemed out of place but my apologies to Mr Deaver— he always knows what’s he’s doing, just like Lincoln.
I missed Amelia though— sure she runs a few scenes but this is definitely Lincoln’s case.
If I had a word to describe this mystery— complicated would definitely be a good one!!
It’s been awhile since I’ve read a Deaver book and I’d forgotten how much I enjoyed all the science the reader is treated to during each investigation.
This book takes the reader from NYC’s illustrious diamond district to the mines of South Africa. It also produces a myriad of characters who may be villains, heroes or both.
One of the story threads seemed out of place but my apologies to Mr Deaver— he always knows what’s he’s doing, just like Lincoln.
I missed Amelia though— sure she runs a few scenes but this is definitely Lincoln’s case.
If I had a word to describe this mystery— complicated would definitely be a good one!!
June 11, 2022
*Brilliant!* 10 of 10 Stars!
March 29, 2025
Un caz "orchestrat" de Ceasornicar este complicat și cu multe piste, dar cumva parcă nu a fost la nivelul la care m-am obișnuit, a fost un pic forțată nota și complicații prea elaborate și inutile, prea multe planuri pentru un scop așa nesemnificativ în toată schema. Oricum asta nu schimba cu nimic convingerea mea că Jeffery Deaver este cel mai talentat scriitor de thriller.
April 18, 2018
What do I think of this book? It's complicated.
Mostly, I'm talking about the plot. It's sort of like hiking in the woods and, just when you think you see the end of the trail, it veers off in another direction. Bodies turn up on different street corners, motives and suspects change almost by the chapter and friends turn out to be enemies. All this action keeps police consultant and quadriplegic Lincoln Rhymes and his partner (on and off the job) Amelia Sachs on their toes - and me on the edge of my seat.
That's not to say the action is nonstop; in fact, there's plenty of detail here, in character development, technology and historical background (in other words, there's no shortage of evidence that the author has done extensive research). I'll admit that once in a while that drifted a little closer to the too much information line than I'd like, but on the other hand, I'm always open to getting educated on subjects I know little about.
In this case, it's primarily the diamond industry. In fact, that's where the complex story begins; in a Manhattan diamond-cutter's back-street shop, where the owner and a couple of customers are murdered in rather brutal fashion. An apparent witness - a young man who worked for the owner - somehow escapes, notifies the police and disappears into the wind. Lincoln and Amelia are called in (she, physically, and he, mentally from his technology-rich apartment). Together, they determine, surprisingly given the [diamond] setting, that robbery doesn't seem to be the motive.
Rather, the killer - dubbed the Promisor - was targeting the couple themselves (a conclusion reached when other couples are attacked in similar fashion). He - closed-circuit photos prove it's a man - apparently has some kind of kinky fixation with diamonds, making brides-to-be who boast rocks on the third fingers of their left hands high on his hit list.
Another angle involves construction of a geothermal energy facility, complete with a tie-in to local earthquakes, gas line ruptures and more deaths. Still another is the upcoming trial of a dangerous criminal Lincoln and Sachs helped to nail awhile back; now, though, he may find himself on the other side of the fence (not to mention in a sticky situation with police colleagues). Should you think that's enough for one book, just wait, there's more: A shaky relationship between the runaway apprentice, his set-in-his-traditional ways father and his girlfriend that's causing all kinds of trauma.
More than that I won't reveal, except to say that by the last page the loose ends are tidied up (well, most of them, anyway). And this: Congratulations on another 5-star entry in a stellar series!
Mostly, I'm talking about the plot. It's sort of like hiking in the woods and, just when you think you see the end of the trail, it veers off in another direction. Bodies turn up on different street corners, motives and suspects change almost by the chapter and friends turn out to be enemies. All this action keeps police consultant and quadriplegic Lincoln Rhymes and his partner (on and off the job) Amelia Sachs on their toes - and me on the edge of my seat.
That's not to say the action is nonstop; in fact, there's plenty of detail here, in character development, technology and historical background (in other words, there's no shortage of evidence that the author has done extensive research). I'll admit that once in a while that drifted a little closer to the too much information line than I'd like, but on the other hand, I'm always open to getting educated on subjects I know little about.
In this case, it's primarily the diamond industry. In fact, that's where the complex story begins; in a Manhattan diamond-cutter's back-street shop, where the owner and a couple of customers are murdered in rather brutal fashion. An apparent witness - a young man who worked for the owner - somehow escapes, notifies the police and disappears into the wind. Lincoln and Amelia are called in (she, physically, and he, mentally from his technology-rich apartment). Together, they determine, surprisingly given the [diamond] setting, that robbery doesn't seem to be the motive.
Rather, the killer - dubbed the Promisor - was targeting the couple themselves (a conclusion reached when other couples are attacked in similar fashion). He - closed-circuit photos prove it's a man - apparently has some kind of kinky fixation with diamonds, making brides-to-be who boast rocks on the third fingers of their left hands high on his hit list.
Another angle involves construction of a geothermal energy facility, complete with a tie-in to local earthquakes, gas line ruptures and more deaths. Still another is the upcoming trial of a dangerous criminal Lincoln and Sachs helped to nail awhile back; now, though, he may find himself on the other side of the fence (not to mention in a sticky situation with police colleagues). Should you think that's enough for one book, just wait, there's more: A shaky relationship between the runaway apprentice, his set-in-his-traditional ways father and his girlfriend that's causing all kinds of trauma.
More than that I won't reveal, except to say that by the last page the loose ends are tidied up (well, most of them, anyway). And this: Congratulations on another 5-star entry in a stellar series!
April 10, 2018
I can always count on Jefferey Deaver to deliver a well-written crime novel where nothing is at it seems. If you have read Deavers previous books, then you know what I mean. That is why I suspected that not everything is what it seemed when everything seemed to go smoothly in the book.
Newly married Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs are tasked with finding not only a crazed killer that seemed to be targeting couples that are to be married but also a witness to the first crime. A triple murder in Manhattan's Diamond District. Of course, this is not easy tasks, the killer is maiming and killing his way and looking for the young witness while the witness tries to get away from the town.
And, this is just a small fraction of the story. And, the rest of it well spoilers! It's darn hard to review a book like this because there are so many things going on that you just need to find out for yourself when you read the book. All I can say that Jeffrey Deaver has done it again! As usual! The book is thick, but never boring, filled with fabulous twist and an absolutely marvelous ending. Kind of cliffhanger-ish, but still a satisfying ending. I had a blast reading this book and it's a series that keep going strong with each book deliver a satisfying story. I can't wait to read the next book!
If you have never read a Jeffery Deaver book before, then I urge you to do so. Start with the first book in the Lincoln Rhyme series, The Bone Collector!
I want to thank Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
Newly married Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs are tasked with finding not only a crazed killer that seemed to be targeting couples that are to be married but also a witness to the first crime. A triple murder in Manhattan's Diamond District. Of course, this is not easy tasks, the killer is maiming and killing his way and looking for the young witness while the witness tries to get away from the town.
And, this is just a small fraction of the story. And, the rest of it well spoilers! It's darn hard to review a book like this because there are so many things going on that you just need to find out for yourself when you read the book. All I can say that Jeffrey Deaver has done it again! As usual! The book is thick, but never boring, filled with fabulous twist and an absolutely marvelous ending. Kind of cliffhanger-ish, but still a satisfying ending. I had a blast reading this book and it's a series that keep going strong with each book deliver a satisfying story. I can't wait to read the next book!
If you have never read a Jeffery Deaver book before, then I urge you to do so. Start with the first book in the Lincoln Rhyme series, The Bone Collector!
I want to thank Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a free copy through NetGalley for an honest review!
August 3, 2018
Excellent. I love the character Lincoln Rhyme. I adore the story plots of Jeffery Deaver. Unputdownable. Wonderful book.
March 19, 2025
So many layers and red herrings made this a very convoluted tale. Deaver has a devious mind and I have enjoyed every single book in this series. I really thought Lincoln was in trouble part way through this one. I was holding my breath and then sighing with relief. What else is there to say? I don’t give a book report or tell the story over. I just try to say if, and why, I liked it. And I definitely liked it!
October 1, 2018
They diamonds are girls best friend this book proves that fact completely wrong.
I thing diamonds are overrated they serve no purpose but to make a girl's finger look good & give man a penis envy over others. This Lincoln book is very complex brutal black comedy over twists it has sub plot with whirlwind plot ending that ticks like a clock.
I thing diamonds are overrated they serve no purpose but to make a girl's finger look good & give man a penis envy over others. This Lincoln book is very complex brutal black comedy over twists it has sub plot with whirlwind plot ending that ticks like a clock.
May 29, 2020
This is the 14th book in the Lincoln Rhyme series by author Jeffery Deaver and having read and enjoyed all the others it was nice to get back into the characters.
As always Jeffery Deaver shows that he really digs deep when working on his novels and proves an in-depth knowledge of the diamond cutting industry. 'The Cutting Edge' is the five stages that a stone goes through before becoming a diamond and Deaver also lays the novel out in 5 stages.
The story follows the crimes that are against couples who are about to promise their love to each other and get married. The villain is killing engaged couples.
Although it is interesting to read about the diamond industry I would have liked to have spent more time with Rhyme's and Sach's the two main characters. Far too much time is spent on the other characters in the book rather than to sticking with what the two characters that have grown on Deaver followers. For me this book was certainly not the diamond I had been hoping for.
Overall I was a little disappointed in the book and found the story average rather than the high standard we are more used to. The book starts fairly strong but whereas previous books have hooked me and reeled me in, this one let me go and I found it far too easy to put the book down.
In Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs the author has two great characters that have graced the literary pages for years but unfortunately in my opinion this book does not add to the legacy.
As always Jeffery Deaver shows that he really digs deep when working on his novels and proves an in-depth knowledge of the diamond cutting industry. 'The Cutting Edge' is the five stages that a stone goes through before becoming a diamond and Deaver also lays the novel out in 5 stages.
The story follows the crimes that are against couples who are about to promise their love to each other and get married. The villain is killing engaged couples.
Although it is interesting to read about the diamond industry I would have liked to have spent more time with Rhyme's and Sach's the two main characters. Far too much time is spent on the other characters in the book rather than to sticking with what the two characters that have grown on Deaver followers. For me this book was certainly not the diamond I had been hoping for.
Overall I was a little disappointed in the book and found the story average rather than the high standard we are more used to. The book starts fairly strong but whereas previous books have hooked me and reeled me in, this one let me go and I found it far too easy to put the book down.
In Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs the author has two great characters that have graced the literary pages for years but unfortunately in my opinion this book does not add to the legacy.
May 15, 2018
Dear Jeffrey Deaver
I read your books like a junkie trying to quit. Each time I finish one I think to myself “no more Deaver! That’s it for me!” Then the next one comes out and I tell myself that just one last fix won’t hurt....
So why do I do it to myself? Your books are engaging. I love Lincoln. I rarely ever guess the full plot in its entirety.
BUT
Your twists and turns are so intricate and convoluted I think you’ve reached the point where it’s all just a little bit silly. The last few have left me thinking “are you serious?” Honestly it gets to the point where it becomes far-fetched. Too far-fetched to take seriously. A twist in a twist is fine. Great, even. This one was a twist in a twist in a twist in a twist. Pah. I start to see through your books merely because every irrelevant detail or case is bound to end up tenuously linked to the main thread of the story before the book is done.
Jeffrey, you are a great writer. But you need to stop overthinking it. My advice... red pen. Cross out your fourth plot twist. Go back to basics.
Thanks for the reads, though. Maybe just one more....
Best,
Donna
I read your books like a junkie trying to quit. Each time I finish one I think to myself “no more Deaver! That’s it for me!” Then the next one comes out and I tell myself that just one last fix won’t hurt....
So why do I do it to myself? Your books are engaging. I love Lincoln. I rarely ever guess the full plot in its entirety.
BUT
Your twists and turns are so intricate and convoluted I think you’ve reached the point where it’s all just a little bit silly. The last few have left me thinking “are you serious?” Honestly it gets to the point where it becomes far-fetched. Too far-fetched to take seriously. A twist in a twist is fine. Great, even. This one was a twist in a twist in a twist in a twist. Pah. I start to see through your books merely because every irrelevant detail or case is bound to end up tenuously linked to the main thread of the story before the book is done.
Jeffrey, you are a great writer. But you need to stop overthinking it. My advice... red pen. Cross out your fourth plot twist. Go back to basics.
Thanks for the reads, though. Maybe just one more....
Best,
Donna
April 10, 2018
The premise was good and the telling, the economy of chapters, and view point, but the length didn’t match the hook I found myself drifting from the narrative. Cutting down of length would have being more thrilling.
July 8, 2020
Deaver's books are normally great with unexpected twists but not in this particular book.
I think this series has become more disappointed lately.
Not very intriguing as I had to skim through the latter part of the story.
I think this series has become more disappointed lately.
Not very intriguing as I had to skim through the latter part of the story.
April 17, 2018
I've read several of Jeffery Deaver's Lincoln Rhyme mysteries but it's been a while so I jumped at the chance to read an arc of his latest. Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for providing me with this book for an honest review.
Lincoln Rhyme is a quadriplegic who works with the NYPD as a consultant to solve complicated cases using forensic science. His wife, Amelia Sachs, is often his eyes and ears as she walks the grid of a crime scene collecting evidence.
In this latest outing, someone has brutally murdered several people in the diamond district, while taking several extremely valuable 'in the rough' diamonds, but curiously leaving many cut stones behind. An eyewitness makes the 911 call reporting the crime and it appears this person was wounded while escaping. Can the police find him before the killer can? The race is on!
But Lincoln Rhyme stories are always complicated, and this one is no exception, so you can bet there is so much more to the story, including earthquakes, explosions, and treachery. There are many different layers to this story, many twists and turns that you won't see coming until you reach the final exciting conclusion.
Lincoln Rhyme is a quadriplegic who works with the NYPD as a consultant to solve complicated cases using forensic science. His wife, Amelia Sachs, is often his eyes and ears as she walks the grid of a crime scene collecting evidence.
In this latest outing, someone has brutally murdered several people in the diamond district, while taking several extremely valuable 'in the rough' diamonds, but curiously leaving many cut stones behind. An eyewitness makes the 911 call reporting the crime and it appears this person was wounded while escaping. Can the police find him before the killer can? The race is on!
But Lincoln Rhyme stories are always complicated, and this one is no exception, so you can bet there is so much more to the story, including earthquakes, explosions, and treachery. There are many different layers to this story, many twists and turns that you won't see coming until you reach the final exciting conclusion.
March 4, 2018
Lincoln Rhyme and Amelia Sachs are back to investigate the brutal and torturous killings of a soon to be wed couple and their jeweler at his diamond district establishment. Simultaneously an additional story unfolds in Brooklyn where a drilling construction site is home to numerous and extremely rare earth quakes that set off gas leaks and explosions resulting in a few fatalities. Rhyme and his team must conclude whether these two circumstances are connected and race to solve them before any other lives are claimed. Deaver delivers with another fast paced installment of this ongoing series.
July 18, 2018
It was interesting but not a page turner. There were two endings, the first wrapped everything up, and then the second wrapped a few more things up - but made a point of leaving the ending open - so you would be enticed to read the next installment. Cheesy and dated tactic.
August 9, 2018
Another good installment with Lincoln Rhyme. Recommended.
September 21, 2021
Am incheiat seria Lincoln Rhyme cu mai putin entuziasm decat ma asteptam, ultimele volume au fost dezamagitoare, fata de nivelul pe care autorul il stabilise pentru serie. Cam acelasi nivel il are la volumele de sine statatoare, dar Lincoln Rhyme era de departea cea mai buna serie a lui. Doar ca autorul a preferat sa complice intriga, invelind-o in strat peste strat de piste false si divagatii, in loc sa lucreze la personaje si la relatia dintre ei. I-a casatorit in volumul anterior, dar nu s-a schimbat nimic in relatia lor, fiecare are in continuare locuinta lui si fara prea mare interactiune intre ei. Pe la mijlocul seriei relatia lor devenise intensa, interesanta, ca apoi sa fie abandonata. Dar asta nu inseamna ca nu voi citi volumul 15, care este anuntat pentru sfarsitul acestui an 😁
March 6, 2018
So, the other day, after a series of disappointing reads, I turned to Jeffery Deaver and Lincoln Rhyme for a sure thing.
Sure enough, in a few pages, I was deep in a complicated mystery, compelling characters, and learning more than I ever knew about diamonds and diamond cutting. I had no idea the subject was so fascinating!
Now, I’ll admit that, for a while, I thought Deaver had made a misstep with his villain. At times, the villain seemed more silly than sinister. But, really, I needn’t have worried. Deaver had a little something up his sleeve.
I think I would have liked if our primary characters – the ones we love to read – had been in more personal jeopardy in the book. We basically know our victims for a page or two before they meet our villain, so it’s hard to feel anything deeply there.
But this definitely was a good read!
*ARC Provided via Net Galley
Sure enough, in a few pages, I was deep in a complicated mystery, compelling characters, and learning more than I ever knew about diamonds and diamond cutting. I had no idea the subject was so fascinating!
Now, I’ll admit that, for a while, I thought Deaver had made a misstep with his villain. At times, the villain seemed more silly than sinister. But, really, I needn’t have worried. Deaver had a little something up his sleeve.
I think I would have liked if our primary characters – the ones we love to read – had been in more personal jeopardy in the book. We basically know our victims for a page or two before they meet our villain, so it’s hard to feel anything deeply there.
But this definitely was a good read!
*ARC Provided via Net Galley
December 24, 2022
Disappointed at best - 3*
I've been SO stressed over the last couple of weeks and this book did not really take my mind off it. I feel let down by Jeffrey Deaver I'm going to be truly honest about it.
I love Lincoln Rhyme I do and I love all of the main characters but I'm going to be honest, I'm so disappointed. The red herrings were crap. Where was my whiteboard where I got to have a go at working stuff out? Why were the victim's POV so boring? How come the plot line had been recycled? How come HE is back?
I love you, Amelia and Lincoln but this book sucks.
I've been SO stressed over the last couple of weeks and this book did not really take my mind off it. I feel let down by Jeffrey Deaver I'm going to be truly honest about it.
I love Lincoln Rhyme I do and I love all of the main characters but I'm going to be honest, I'm so disappointed. The red herrings were crap. Where was my whiteboard where I got to have a go at working stuff out? Why were the victim's POV so boring? How come the plot line had been recycled? How come HE is back?
I love you, Amelia and Lincoln but this book sucks.
June 10, 2018
I wish I didn’t even have to rate this one as I love the Lincoln Rhymes/Amelia Sachs series by Deaver. It felt disjointed, unnecessarily convoluted & unbelievable. Maybe it was just bad timing for me but the some of my favourite elements were missing in The Cutting Edge: fluency of plot, development of characters & intriguing twists.
January 6, 2019
I think it may have finally reached the time where the Lincoln Rhyme books are more disappointing than not. It's all just starting to feel a wee bit... stale.
There's a vague implication that the next book may be the last; I'll most likely read it but it'll take a lot to keep me going on from there.
There's a vague implication that the next book may be the last; I'll most likely read it but it'll take a lot to keep me going on from there.
April 18, 2018
I'm going to go with 3.5 stars on this book which I was so looking forward to read. I have only recently started with this series so the ending although surprised me was underwhelming since I didn't read all Lincoln Rhyme books.
April 21, 2025
Overall Rating : C
"They can lie and be honest at the same time..."
Someone robbed and tortured 3 people at a jeweller's office. Now he's gunning for the witnesses. Sachs and Rhyme - newly married - must find them before the murderer does, and figure out the real motivation behind his madness.
I gotta say, the most boring book out of the series. Don't know why exactly, but I was zoning out through the entire book. Even the twists didn't captivate me. And the one I did enjoy didn't justify 80% of the book that I had to trudge through.
Also - and this might just be me - but Amelia and Lincoln are married, and yet they don't act like it! She even has another apartment she can - and does - go to. Like, what was even the point of the marriage?!?! It just irked me for some reason. Give me some crumbs at least!!
"They can lie and be honest at the same time..."
Someone robbed and tortured 3 people at a jeweller's office. Now he's gunning for the witnesses. Sachs and Rhyme - newly married - must find them before the murderer does, and figure out the real motivation behind his madness.
I gotta say, the most boring book out of the series. Don't know why exactly, but I was zoning out through the entire book. Even the twists didn't captivate me. And the one I did enjoy didn't justify 80% of the book that I had to trudge through.
Also - and this might just be me - but Amelia and Lincoln are married, and yet they don't act like it! She even has another apartment she can - and does - go to. Like, what was even the point of the marriage?!?! It just irked me for some reason. Give me some crumbs at least!!
June 11, 2022
This is one wild ride all over in the mind of solving a case! My mind wasn't even close. The ending is great and the cliff hanger hung up and ready to go.
May 27, 2018
Jeffery Deaver's supremely talented criminologist Lincoln Rhyme returns to track down (yet another!) serial killer stalking the streets of New York.
Deaver turns in an incredible well plotted thriller, but this time he develops a larger backstory for one of his characters. Vimal Lahori is a young sculptor & diamond cutter & Deaver brings him, & the Lahori family, fully to life. I usually find family background stories slow down the pace of a thriller, but here Deaver creates truly believable people which enhances the story instead of detracting from it.
In fact the author supplies many excellent minor characters & fleshes them out well. This is probably his strongest novel for characterisation so far.
Deaver improves on his previous 13 Rhyme novels in other ways too. Lincoln Rhyme always has a huge amount of information about a suspect written on whiteboards & every few chapters Deaver slavishly writes these details for readers to view. I've always found this repetitive & unnecessary & was pleased to see that this time the whiteboards are referred to, but not printed in the story at all.
It's taken me fourteen Lincoln Rhyme thriller, but I finally worked out a major plot twist way before it happened! I'm now ridiculously pleased with myself. Mind you, Deaver still has plenty of other surprises up his sleeve in what turns out to be one of the most satisfying novels of his that I've read in a long time.
Deaver turns in an incredible well plotted thriller, but this time he develops a larger backstory for one of his characters. Vimal Lahori is a young sculptor & diamond cutter & Deaver brings him, & the Lahori family, fully to life. I usually find family background stories slow down the pace of a thriller, but here Deaver creates truly believable people which enhances the story instead of detracting from it.
In fact the author supplies many excellent minor characters & fleshes them out well. This is probably his strongest novel for characterisation so far.
Deaver improves on his previous 13 Rhyme novels in other ways too. Lincoln Rhyme always has a huge amount of information about a suspect written on whiteboards & every few chapters Deaver slavishly writes these details for readers to view. I've always found this repetitive & unnecessary & was pleased to see that this time the whiteboards are referred to, but not printed in the story at all.
It's taken me fourteen Lincoln Rhyme thriller, but I finally worked out a major plot twist way before it happened! I'm now ridiculously pleased with myself. Mind you, Deaver still has plenty of other surprises up his sleeve in what turns out to be one of the most satisfying novels of his that I've read in a long time.
January 2, 2024
In "Der Todbringer" gehen Lincoln Rhyme und Amelia Sachs bereits zum 14. Mal auf gemeinsame Verbrecherjagd und bekommen es diesmal mit einem Täter zu tun, der es auf Protagonisten des Diamantengeschäfts abgesehen hat und Juweliere sowie deren Kund:innen überfällt.
Dieses Buch wäre jedoch kein Thriller von Jeffery Deaver, wenn der Autor sich alleine mit dieser Storyline zufriedengeben würde. Deshalb drückt er seinen Serienheld:innen noch gleich zwei weitere Fälle auf, was zwar einerseits für Abwechslung sorgt, zugleich aber auch die Geschichte ungemein überfrachtet und unnötig verwirrend gestaltet.
Natürlich ist dies vom Autor gewollt, damit er im Finale wieder mit seinen doppelten und dreifachen Schlusspointen glänzen kann, in "Der Todbringer" scheint es jedoch, als wäre die Sucht nach der ständigen Überraschung seines Publikums ein wenig außer Kontrolle geraten. Zwar werden die einzelnen Handlungsstränge nach wie vor sauber miteinander verknüpft und aufgearbeitet, sind von einer realistischen Geschichte aber am Ende meilenweit entfernt.
Unterhaltsam ist das Ergebnis aufgrund der erzählerischen Fähigkeiten Deavers immer noch, bei langjährigen Leser:innen der Reihe dürfte sich aber langsam ein Übersättigungseffekt einstellen.
Dieses Buch wäre jedoch kein Thriller von Jeffery Deaver, wenn der Autor sich alleine mit dieser Storyline zufriedengeben würde. Deshalb drückt er seinen Serienheld:innen noch gleich zwei weitere Fälle auf, was zwar einerseits für Abwechslung sorgt, zugleich aber auch die Geschichte ungemein überfrachtet und unnötig verwirrend gestaltet.
Natürlich ist dies vom Autor gewollt, damit er im Finale wieder mit seinen doppelten und dreifachen Schlusspointen glänzen kann, in "Der Todbringer" scheint es jedoch, als wäre die Sucht nach der ständigen Überraschung seines Publikums ein wenig außer Kontrolle geraten. Zwar werden die einzelnen Handlungsstränge nach wie vor sauber miteinander verknüpft und aufgearbeitet, sind von einer realistischen Geschichte aber am Ende meilenweit entfernt.
Unterhaltsam ist das Ergebnis aufgrund der erzählerischen Fähigkeiten Deavers immer noch, bei langjährigen Leser:innen der Reihe dürfte sich aber langsam ein Übersättigungseffekt einstellen.
January 13, 2023
Genres: Crime/Mystery/Thriller
I've read more than a few books in this series...however not sequentially. This is #14 in the Lincoln Rhyme series. I like the cast in this series. They all help to anchor the stories even when they get kind of crazy. That's when I love to have anchors.
The MCs are a solid couple and they work well together. I also like how methodical they are when solving crimes. There are some wild leaps but even then, the author tries to anchor down into reality. All things that I can appreciate.
I listened to the audio and the narrator was fabulous. So 4 stars.
I've read more than a few books in this series...however not sequentially. This is #14 in the Lincoln Rhyme series. I like the cast in this series. They all help to anchor the stories even when they get kind of crazy. That's when I love to have anchors.
The MCs are a solid couple and they work well together. I also like how methodical they are when solving crimes. There are some wild leaps but even then, the author tries to anchor down into reality. All things that I can appreciate.
I listened to the audio and the narrator was fabulous. So 4 stars.
March 15, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this. It was well written, the plot and subplots thought out abd executed much to my liking.
Sachs and the gang were brilliant and exciting. Had moments Lincoln did get on my nerves.
All in all quite enjoyable.
Sachs and the gang were brilliant and exciting. Had moments Lincoln did get on my nerves.
All in all quite enjoyable.
April 21, 2018
A really excellent addition to the Lincoln Rhyme series. Full review to follow at publication.
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