Book Review: Lethal Prey (A Prey Novel Book 35) by John Sandford
Sometimes, a book finds its way to you just when you need it the most. For me, that book was Lethal Prey, the latest installment in John Sandford’s long-standing Prey series. As a longtime reader who has watched Lucas Davenport and Virgil Flowers navigate the murkiest waters of human nature, I couldn’t resist diving into their latest chase. The promise of a complex narrative, combined with Sandford’s signature wit, left me hopeful that this book would be another thrilling ride.
Plot Overview and Themes
The story centers around Lara Grandfelt, whose sister, Doris, was brutally murdered twenty years prior. Confronted by her own health scare, Lara takes desperate measures to uncover the truth, launching a public investigation that attracts an army of true crime bloggers. The forward momentum is invigorating: Lucas and Virgil not only have to contend with a cold case but also the frenzy of online sleuths, each hoping for their fifteen minutes of fame.
What resonates most with me is the theme of resilience. Lara Grandfelt’s tenacity embodies the idea that the pursuit of justice is never truly over, no matter how many years have passed. Her decision to make the investigation public and the ensuing chaos that follows adds layers of commentary on today’s digital landscape and how it influences crime-solving. The book captures the complexities of justice, showing how past traumas refuse to stay buried and how the future can still be seized.
Writing Style and Pacing
Sandford’s writing continues to adeptly blend tension with humor, making his narrative a page-turner. The banter between Lucas and Virgil is as lively as ever, providing a great contrast to the heavier themes of the book. However, I’ve noticed mixed feelings in the reviews regarding pacing, and I found myself echoing that experience. The first part of the book had a slow build, almost intentionally mirroring the cold case’s sluggish progress.
But then, as the story unfurls, it reaches gripping heights—the pacing accelerates, leading to an utterly unexpected climax. It’s a balance that has become familiar in the Prey series, where moments of levity coexist with deeply unsettling situations. One memorable quote from this novel encapsulates that dichotomy perfectly: "The past has an unsettling way of creeping up on you, just when you think you’ve buried it."
Conclusion: Who Should Read It?
For anyone who has been following Lucas and Virgil’s escapades, Lethal Prey is a must-read, albeit with some caveats regarding its jarring ending—one that left many feeling unfulfilled. While this may frustrate some, others could see it as setting the stage for a deeper exploration in the next book.
Whether you are a long-time fan or new to the Prey series, this installment will not disappoint. It’s a masterclass in suspense, and while it may leave you hungry for more, the thought-provoking nature of its narrative will linger with you long after the last page. Overall, this is a story of redemption, unresolved pasts, and the relentless pursuit of truth, traits that are the hallmarks of a great detective thriller. Happy reading!
You can find Lethal Prey (A Prey Novel Book 35) here >>