Title: GALLERY OF THE DEAD – Robert Hunter #09
Author: Chris Carter
ISBN: 9781471156366
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Pages: 528
Source: Private Copy
Thirty-seven years in the force, and if I was allowed to choose just one thing to erase from my mind, what’s inside that room would be it.’
That’s what a LAPD Lieutenant tells Detectives Hunter and Garcia of the Ultra Violent Crimes Unit as they arrive at one of the most shocking crime scenes they have ever attended.
In a completely unexpected turn of events, the detectives find themselves joining forces with the FBI to track down a serial killer whose hunting ground sees no borders; a psychopath who loves what he does because to him murder is much more than just killing – it’s an art form.
Official Summary
08 January 2025
I started reading Chris Carter’s Robert Hunter series in August 2024 and for the first time, I have read a series in order of publication. I fell in love with these characters and have not been able to get enough. While these books are dark and gruesome, I have been racing through them. So eager to start the next one, that I kept moving them to the top of my TBR pile. I read the final one in December and I will be sharing my reviews during January. I would love to share them all at once, but I have spread the posts out.
Gallery of the Dead is a thrilling masterpiece that solidifies Chris Carter’s reputation as one of the most chilling and imaginative crime writers out there. This novel is not for the faint of heart, but for those who enjoy a dark and gripping thriller, it’s an absolute must-read.
From the moment Detectives Hunter and Garcia are called to a crime scene so horrific that even a seasoned LAPD Lieutenant is scarred by it, you know you’re in for a wild ride. Carter’s ability to paint vivid, grotesque crime scenes without overindulging in unnecessary gore showcases his skill as a writer who knows how to walk the fine line between horrifying and captivating.
The partnership between Hunter and Garcia remains one of the highlights of the series. Their camaraderie and differing strengths make them a compelling team to follow, and in this instalment, their dynamic is elevated as they collaborate with the FBI. The tension between local and federal authorities adds an extra layer of intrigue, keeping the stakes high and the pages turning.
The killer at the heart of this story is as fascinating as he is terrifying. Carter excels at creating antagonists who are both grotesque and eerily brilliant. This particular killer’s obsession with turning murder into an art form makes for some of the most creative and horrifying crime scenes I’ve ever encountered in fiction. The plot moves at a breakneck pace, with each twist and revelation more shocking than the last. Just when you think you have a grasp on the killer’s identity or motives, Carter flips the narrative on its head, leaving you stunned and eager to read more.
The ending is a perfect blend of resolution and lingering unease—a hallmark of Carter’s storytelling. You’ll walk away satisfied but unable to shake the imagery or the implications of what you’ve just read.
Gallery of the Dead is Chris Carter at his best: brutal, clever, and utterly unputdownable. Fans of dark, high-stakes thrillers will be hooked from start to finish. Highly recommended for readers who crave an adrenaline rush with a side of psychological depth.
Also by Chris Carter
THE CALLER
Be careful before answering your next call. It could be the beginning of your worst nightmare. After a tough week, Tanya Kaitlin is looking forward to a relaxing night in, but as she steps out of her shower, she hears her phone ring. The video call request comes from her best friend, Karen Ward. Tanya takes the call and the nightmare begins. Detectives Robert Hunter and Carlos Garcia are thrown into a rollercoaster of evil, chasing a predator who scouts the streets and social media networks for victims, taunting them with secret messages and feeding on their fear.
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.
Chris Carter has become my favourite author – I love these dark thrillers, I have shared these books with my husband, and it has been great to have someone enjoy them with me.
As always, thank you for visiting the blog and reading my reviews. I cannot wait to tell you about the next book in the Robert Hunter series – there are four more reviews to come, and all the books are brilliant. Keep an eye out for my review of Hunting Evil, coming next week. Until next time…. Happy Reading!
