BOOK BRIEF

Postmortem (Kay Scarpetta, #1)

Patricia Cornwell
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Postmortem (Kay Scarpetta, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003

Book Brief

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Patricia Cornwell

Postmortem (Kay Scarpetta, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

342

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Richmond, Virginia • 1990s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Patricia Cornwell's Postmortem is a crime novel that follows Dr. Kay Scarpetta, the Chief Medical Examiner of Virginia, as she investigates a series of brutal murders. Utilizing her forensic expertise, Scarpetta races against time to uncover the perpetrator before more lives are lost. This book is the first in the Kay Scarpetta series.

Reviews & Readership

4.2

261,580 ratings

75%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Patricia Cornwell's Postmortem earns praise for its meticulous forensic details and compelling protagonist, Dr. Kay Scarpetta. Reviewers commend the gripping narrative and authentic procedural insights. However, some critique its pacing and occasional predictability. A strong start to Cornwell's series, balancing scientific intrigue and character development effectively.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Postmortem (Kay Scarpetta, #1)?

Postmortem by Patricia Cornwell appeals to readers who enjoy gripping forensic thrillers and crime mysteries. Fans of The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen or Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris will appreciate the detailed investigations and strong, complex protagonist, Dr. Kay Scarpetta. Ideal for those who favor layered plots, forensic science, and psychological depth.

4.2

261,580 ratings

75%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

342

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Richmond, Virginia • 1990s

Publication Year

2003

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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