Thrillers & Suspense
![Patricia Cornwell - [object Object] author](https://res.cloudinary.com/readsomnia/image/upload/authors/a_a_patricia_cornwell.jpg)
Livid: A Scarpetta Novel (Kay Scarpetta, 26)
In this thrilling installment of the #1 bestselling series, chief medical examiner Dr. Kay Scarpetta finds herself a reluctant star witness in a sensational televised murder trial causing chaos in Old Town Alexandria with the threat of violent protests.
Chief medical examiner Kay Scarpetta is the reluctant star witness in a sensational murder trial when she receives shocking news. The judge's sister has been found dead. At first glance, it appears to be a home invasion, but then why was nothing stolen, and why is the garden strewn with dead plants and insects?
Although there is no apparent cause of death, Scarpetta recognizes telltale signs of the unthinkable, and she knows the worst is yet to come. The forensic pathologist finds herself pitted against a powerful force that returns her to the past, and her time to catch the killer is running out . . .
Chief medical examiner Kay Scarpetta is the reluctant star witness in a sensational murder trial when she receives shocking news. The judge's sister has been found dead. At first glance, it appears to be a home invasion, but then why was nothing stolen, and why is the garden strewn with dead plants and insects?
Although there is no apparent cause of death, Scarpetta recognizes telltale signs of the unthinkable, and she knows the worst is yet to come. The forensic pathologist finds herself pitted against a powerful force that returns her to the past, and her time to catch the killer is running out . . .
Editorial Reviews
"The most personal title in the series yet, a terrific crime-thriller that doubles as a deep dive into a hero that we're still learning about."―Providence Journal
"Goes well beyond our protagonist's usual forensic science and shows just how versatile she can be."―BookReporter.com
"Once again, Patricia Cornwell offers a glimpse into a nightmarish future that is already here, reminding us that our deepest fears have likely become reality. Fortunately, the guardians of good-of which Kay Scarpetta is a longstanding example-remain steadfast in their opposition, seeking justice and truth to quell the uncertainties that haunt us."―CriminalElement.com
"Dr. Kay Scarpetta, who keeps us coming back to Patricia Cornwell's sprawling crime novels, is one tough broad."―New York Times Book Review, Praise for Depraved Heart
"Scarpetta is brilliant, compassionate and humble, excelling in her profession and in diplomacy."―Library Journal, Starred Review for Autopsy
Patricia Cornwell is a "masterful mysterian."―Kirkus Reviews, Praise for Depraved Heart
"Everyone knows Scarpetta; she has the wit, intelligence, and strength that any forensic sleuth should own. This never-stop action plot is yet another gift to readers from Patricia Cornwell-a literary artist that is never going to stop writing some of the best and most memorable thrillers out there."―Suspense Magazine, Praise for Flesh and Blood
"Cornwell's demonic plot shifts and changes almost page by page, so the reader's spun round not knowing what to believe."―Providence Journal, Praise for Depraved Heart
"Solid . . . fans will be satisfied."―Publishers Weekly
"As usual, the dead are just more interesting than the living. Something to look forward to."―Kirkus
"A riveting, heart-pounding thriller."―The Real Book Spy
"Cornwell once again seems fully in sync with the character she created more than 30 years ago, and the story is guaranteed to keep the reader guessing."―Booklist
"Another great thriller featuring Kay Scarpetta . . . reader...
"Goes well beyond our protagonist's usual forensic science and shows just how versatile she can be."―BookReporter.com
"Once again, Patricia Cornwell offers a glimpse into a nightmarish future that is already here, reminding us that our deepest fears have likely become reality. Fortunately, the guardians of good-of which Kay Scarpetta is a longstanding example-remain steadfast in their opposition, seeking justice and truth to quell the uncertainties that haunt us."―CriminalElement.com
"Dr. Kay Scarpetta, who keeps us coming back to Patricia Cornwell's sprawling crime novels, is one tough broad."―New York Times Book Review, Praise for Depraved Heart
"Scarpetta is brilliant, compassionate and humble, excelling in her profession and in diplomacy."―Library Journal, Starred Review for Autopsy
Patricia Cornwell is a "masterful mysterian."―Kirkus Reviews, Praise for Depraved Heart
"Everyone knows Scarpetta; she has the wit, intelligence, and strength that any forensic sleuth should own. This never-stop action plot is yet another gift to readers from Patricia Cornwell-a literary artist that is never going to stop writing some of the best and most memorable thrillers out there."―Suspense Magazine, Praise for Flesh and Blood
"Cornwell's demonic plot shifts and changes almost page by page, so the reader's spun round not knowing what to believe."―Providence Journal, Praise for Depraved Heart
"Solid . . . fans will be satisfied."―Publishers Weekly
"As usual, the dead are just more interesting than the living. Something to look forward to."―Kirkus
"A riveting, heart-pounding thriller."―The Real Book Spy
"Cornwell once again seems fully in sync with the character she created more than 30 years ago, and the story is guaranteed to keep the reader guessing."―Booklist
"Another great thriller featuring Kay Scarpetta . . . reader...
Readers Top Reviews
Michelle WoodSnip
I wish I could give more than 5 stars. This book was riveting. I was drawn in while reading and pictured things happening in real life. I read it in 4 days on my Kindle. I would absolutely recommend this to any Cornwell fans as well as anyone who either likes the genre or is looking for something new to peruse.
dlwellsMichelle W
Books 26 and I will never get enough of Dr Kay Scarpetta and her supporting cast of characters! This one is extremely fast paced, covering a period of mere days. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough as the clues were revealed and assimilated into a frightening picture of reality. Can you imagine what we could accomplish if we used technology for the good of humanity instead of devising even more ways to wreak havoc? I’m hoping there won’t be such a long wait before the next Scarpetta adventure.
Annie Girldlwells
I'm always excited to see another Scarlett a novel hit the new book list. I always drop What I'm reading and start my new purchase, never to be disappointed. I'm already for the next book to be released, even though it will be awhile, I'm sure. MS Cornwell always has the best storylines and knows how to keep her readers interested. The characters are always interesting and are well thought out and I like that the originals are always there, making the story interesting.
Daniel KramerAnni
I agree with many of the reviews that follow. Best Cornwell book in a very long time. I am not going to give anything away. But I can tell you that the entire story takes place over 24 hours which is very unusual for a book. Really interesting idea. And she is able to keep you interested during the book. Her earliest books were great. And then she wrote books that were weird and angry and made no sense. THIS is the Cornwell from her earlier books. A story that makes sense and is not filled with rage and anger. Just a good good story.
DARDaniel KramerA
Was thrilled last year when Kay Scarpetta and her crew came back! Autopsy was amazing and I’m so happy to find everyone back and some new (old) friends in Livid! Patricia’s unending promise to be true to detail in the changing society we live in should be heralded! I haven’t finished Livid yet but I pick up my book every spare second I have. What I love most about her works is that Patricia’s research is so thorough and truly makes us feel like her stories are happening now… which actually makes them a bit scarier! Keep them coming Patricia and I will keep reading!!!
