The Death Watcher – Robert Hunter Series #13

Author: Chris Carter
Genre: Psychological Thriller, Crime Fiction
416 pages
Publisher: Simon & Schuster, 2024

Synopsis
When a routine autopsy on what looked like a straightforward hit-and-run leads the LA Chief Medical Examiner, Dr Carolyn Hove, to discover some puzzling inconsistencies, she calls in Detective Robert Hunter of the LAPD Ultra Violent Crimes Unit. Not only did Dr Hove discover that the death wasn’t caused by a hit-and-run, but she also found indications that the victim had been severely tortured prior to death.

What no one realises is that what Dr Hove has stumbled upon is just the tip of the iceberg and it will lead Hunter and his partner, Carlos Garcia, on the trail of a twisted and clever killer who hides in plain sight. A serial killer no one even knew existed – a killer who has always operated under the radar, expertly disguising every gruesome murder as an accidental death.

But with no leads as to why the victim was targeted, the investigation comes to a standstill, until another body is discovered with an alternative cause of death.

What becomes clear is that this serial killer isn’t going to stop – unless Hunter and Garcia can get to him.

But how do you investigate a murder when you have no victims? How do you catch a killer who leaves behind no crime scene? How do you stop a ghost who no one can prove even exists?

My review
The Death Watcher by Chris Carter marks the 13th entry in the Robert Hunter series, and once again, Carter proves he’s a master of dark, graphic, and psychologically intense serial killer thrillers. I tend to reach for these books when I want something chilling yet oddly comforting thanks to Carter’s reliably sharp writing style and engrossing storytelling.

While the series follows a familiar formula, it never feels stale. The blend of police procedural and psychological thriller elements keeps the narrative engaging, and it’s always fascinating to watch the investigation unfold. Carter doesn’t hold back on the gore or psychological horror, so consider this fair warning – these books are not for the faint of heart. The murders are brutal, disturbing, and vividly depicted.

The Death Watcher delivers everything fans have come to expect. Twisted puzzles, shockingly inventive crimes, and a fast-paced plot that hooks you from the very first page. Although character development takes a backseat in the series overall, Carter more than makes up for it with the sheer intensity and creativity of his cases.

This latest installment is perfect for longtime fans or newcomers alike, and each book can be read as a standalone. While I don’t tend to binge Carter’s novels due to their structural similarities, I always find myself returning for their dark thrills and undeniable entertainment. The Death Watcher is a gripping addition to the series – relentless, brutal, and thoroughly captivating.

My recommendation: read it!