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The Absence of Mercy
The Absence of Mercy
Author: John Burley
Just west of the Ohio River lies the peaceful town of Wintersville. Its a place where neighbors feel like family, the chief of police knows the residents by name, and the sound of children's laughter echoes among the streets. But when a teenager is discovered brutally murdered in the woods, Dr. Ben Stevenson, the towns medical examiner, becomes ...  more »
ISBN: 437231
Publication Date: 2013
Pages: 339
Rating:
  • Currently 4.8/5 Stars.
 2

4.8 stars, based on 2 ratings
Publisher: William Morrow
Book Type: Hardcover
Other Versions: Paperback
Members Wishing: 0
Reviews: Member | Write a Review

Top Member Book Reviews

spartacusaby avatar reviewed The Absence of Mercy on + 81 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 2
This is an impressive debut novel, with some truly creepy moments. Even when it's clear "whodunit," the tension doesn't let up and you keep reading compulsively to see how it ends. Well done and well worth reading, if you enjoy psychological thrillers.
reviewed The Absence of Mercy on + 379 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
It is difficult to review this book without disclosing the person responsible for the horribly sadistic murders in a small Ohio town. It is possible to relate that the person's identity adds further levels of complexity and pain to this novel. The suspense doesn't conclude when the perpetrator is eventually tracked because the apprehension is thwarted by a family member. The moral dilemma of the sociopath's family becomes the focus and thought-provoking conclusion of this debut novel.
kdurham2813 avatar reviewed The Absence of Mercy on + 753 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
Check out the full review at Kritters Ramblings

A book with a serial killer with the coroner and his family at the center, what a great change to the normal serial killer book. I loved having the main character be a different part of the investigation; it gave a different perspective on how the hunt for a serial killer can unfold.

WHAT a twist! I have to keep this review brief because I just can't reveal anything that would ruin the spoiler on this one! The killer came out of nowhere for me, but not too far that I felt annoyed. It was just out of left field that I wanted to read it again to pick up on any more clues that I think I may have missed! I absolutely adore being surprised!
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reviewed The Absence of Mercy on + 144 more book reviews
Sorry, this book is not one I would recommend. As the other reader expressed-a lot of medical terms, I didn't understand. The ending didn't impress me. At times, I thought the story line was good, but it wasn't good enough.


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