Though the characters in Deaver's novel are compelling and quirky, the story itself leaves much to be desired. I was forcing myself to turn the last few chapters because I realized something early on. The Bone Collector - the central killer - is not scary and you really don't care about any of his victims. The killer and his prey are merely structures to keep the main heroes revolving and moving. Though the book is fast paced, the action and the ending are hardly worth the effort. Even though Deaver is in much better command of the written word, I recommend Patterson's brisk storytelling over this sour brain candy novel.