Title: THE HUNTER – Robert Hunter #0.5
Author: Chris Carter
ISBN: 9781471128004
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Pages: 80
Source: Private Copy
Meet Robert Hunter, the youngest Homicide Detective the Los Angeles Police has ever recruited, on his first day. As a rookie, he is given a simple suicide investigation to cut his teeth on. But when he arrives at the scene, he swiftly begins to suspect that something is not quite right.
Despite the fact that the door was locked from the inside, and there is no other way out of the apartment, Hunter has a hunch that the victim did not commit suicide. But with a new Captain to impress and the evidence stacked against him, Hunter has a lot to prove if he is to solve the case and keep his place on the team.
Official Summary
15 October 2024
I have been reading the Robert Hunter series in order of publication, and this one, book 0.5 was published in 2013 – a great prequel to the series. The Hunter is a gripping novella that introduces Robert Hunter, a detective whose instincts and intellect make him a standout from day one. Set on his first day at the Los Angeles Police Department, the story wastes no time drawing you into a seemingly straightforward suicide investigation that quickly unravels into something far more sinister.
What I loved about The Hunter is how Chris Carter showcases Hunter’s razor-sharp intuition and the inner workings of his mind. As a rookie detective, Hunter is given a “simple” case to cut his teeth on, but his hunch that the death isn’t a suicide sets the tone for the entire novella. The locked-room mystery element is particularly intriguing—how could there be no way in or out? Carter masterfully balances Hunter’s rookie uncertainty with his natural brilliance, making you root for him as he tries to prove his worth.
The tension in this novella is taut, especially with Hunter having to navigate the pressure of a new captain and needing to make a name for himself. Carter’s writing is punchy, and despite its shortness, The Hunter doesn’t feel rushed. Instead, it’s a tight, suspenseful read with all the hallmarks of a classic mystery. You’re left questioning every piece of evidence, following Hunter’s lead as he pieces together the truth.
This is an excellent introduction to Robert Hunter’s character. Fans of Chris Carter’s full-length novels will appreciate this backstory, and new readers will be hooked by Hunter’s potential. The novella serves as a solid appetizer for what’s to come in his career, and it’s a great pick for anyone craving a quick but intense mystery.
Also by Chris Carter
THE DEATH SCULPTOR – Rober Hunter #4
‘Good job you didn’t turn on the lights …’ A student nurse has the shock of her life when she discovers her patient, prosecutor Derek Nicholson, brutally murdered in his bed. The act seems senseless – Nicholson was terminally ill with only weeks to live. But what most shocks Detective Robert Hunter of the Los Angeles Robbery Homicide Division is the calling card the killer left behind. For Hunter, there is no doubt that the killer is trying to communicate with the police, but the method is unlike anything he’s ever seen before. And what could the hidden message be? Just as Hunter and his partner Garcia reckon they’ve found a lead, a new body is found – and a new calling card. But with no apparent link between the first and second victims, all the progress they’ve made so far goes out of the window. Pushed into an uncomfortable alliance with the confident Alice Beaumont, Hunter must race to put together the pieces of the investigation …before the Death Sculptor puts the final touches to his masterpiece.
About the Author
Author bio from the author’s site
I was born in Brasilia, Brazil where I spent my childhood and teenage years. After graduating from high school, I moved to the USA where I studied psychology with specialization in criminal behaviour. During my University years, I held a variety of odd jobs, ranging from flipping burgers to being part of an all male exotic dancing group.
I worked as a criminal psychologist for several years before moving to Los Angeles, where I swapped the suits and briefcases for ripped jeans, bandanas and an electric guitar. After a spell playing for several well-known glam rock bands, I decided to try my luck in London, where I was fortunate enough to have played for a number of famous artists. I toured the world several times as a professional musician.
A few years ago I gave it all up to become a full time writer.
I missed sharing a Robert Hunter review last week, but not to worry—there’s already another one lined up and ready to be shared next week. Are you a fan of the Robert Hunter series? I know these books can be dark and graphic, and they might not be for everyone, but I just can’t get enough. I’m already excited to read the next one!
As always, thank you for visiting the blog and reading my review. Your support means so much to me. Until next time… Happy reading!
