Title: THE CRUCIFIX KILLER
Author: Chris Carter
ISBN: 9781847376220
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Pages: 448
Source: Private Copy
When the body of a young woman is discovered in a derelict cottage in the middle of Los Angeles National Forest, Homicide Detective Robert Hunter finds himself entering a horrific and recurring nightmare. Naked, strung from two parallel wooden posts, the victim was sadistically tortured before meeting an excruciatingly painful death.
All the skin has been ripped from her face – while she was still alive. On the nape of her neck has been carved a strange double-cross: the signature of a psychopath known as the Crucifix Killer. But that’s impossible. Because two years ago, the Crucifix Killer was caught and executed. Could this therefore be a copycat killer? Or could the unthinkable be true?
Is the real killer still out there, ready to embark once again on a vicious and violent killing spree, selecting his victims seemingly at random, taunting Robert Hunter with his inability to catch him? Hunter and his rookie partner are about to enter a nightmare beyond imagining.
Official Summary
20 August 2024
My curiosity peaked when I noticed this author’s books making regular appearances on Instagram. Instead of randomly jumping in, I decided to do a little research and I have started reading the first book. This book was first published in 2009, but if like me you haven’t read any of this author’s books before then I guarantee you are in for a treat. I was not even halfway through this book when I ordered the next five books in the Robert Hunter Series.
*The Crucifix Killer* is not for the faint-hearted. This is a book that grabs you by the throat from the first page and doesn’t let go. As someone who enjoys crime thrillers that push the boundaries of psychological terror, I found this novel to be a gripping, albeit disturbing, read – everything I love about a good thriller.
The story kicks off with the discovery of a brutally tortured woman in a remote cottage, setting the tone for the harrowing journey that Homicide Detective Robert Hunter is about to embark on. The details of the murder are grotesque, with the victim’s face skinned alive and a double-cross symbol carved into her neck—an unmistakable signature of the Crucifix Killer. The twist? The supposed killer was executed two years ago, leaving Hunter and his rookie partner, Carlos Garcia, to struggle with the chilling possibility that either the real killer is still at large or a copycat is on the loose.
Carter’s background in psychology shines through in his portrayal of the twisted mind of the killer. The narrative is intricately woven, pulling readers into a web of suspense that intensifies with each chapter. Hunter’s character is particularly compelling; his intelligence and determination are obvious, but so too is his vulnerability as he confronts a nightmare he thought was over.
What I appreciated most about *The Crucifix Killer* is Carter’s ability to maintain tension throughout the book. The pacing is relentless, and the plot twists are cleverly executed. However, it’s worth noting that the graphic nature of the crimes may be too much for some readers. The depictions of violence are vivid and unflinching, making this a challenging read for those who prefer their thrillers on the less gruesome side.
The dynamic between Hunter and Garcia adds another layer of depth to the story. Garcia’s inexperience and Hunter’s seasoned insight create an interesting partnership that evolves as they delve deeper into the case. The camaraderie and mutual respect that develop between them are a welcome respite from the dark and disturbing events surrounding them.
While the book delivers on its promise of a shocking and suspenseful crime thriller, it does veer into familiar territory with some genre clichés. The “returning killer” trope is well-worn, but Carter’s execution is skilful enough to keep it engaging. The ending, while satisfying, leaves the door open for more, which I imagine will appeal to fans of the series.
Overall, *The Crucifix Killer* is a well-crafted thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat, provided you can stomach the graphic content. It’s a dark, intense read that delves into the mind of a psychopath, and it will linger with you long after you’ve turned the final page. If you’re a fan of crime fiction that doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of its subject matter, this book is definitely worth a read.
Also By Chris Carter
THE EXECUTIONER
Imagine your worst fear – and then meet your worst nightmare…
Inside a Los Angeles church, on the altar steps, lies the blood-soaked, decapitated body of a priest. Carefully positioned, legs stretched out, arms crossed over the chest, the most horrifying thing of all is that the priest’s head has been replaced by that of a dog. Later, the forensic team discover that, on the victim’s chest, the figure ‘3’ has been scrawled in blood.
At first, Detective Robert Hunter believes that this is a ritualistic killing. But as more bodies surface, he is forced to reassess. All the victims died in the way they feared the most. Their worst nightmares have literally come true. But how could the killer have known? And what links these apparently random victims?
Hunter finds himself on the trail of an elusive and sadistic killer, someone who apparently has the power to read his victims’ minds. Someone who can sense what scares his victims the most. Someone who will stop at nothing to achieve his twisted aim.
I am hoping to start reading this one in the next few weeks.
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.
A big thank you to my regular visitors—your support is greatly appreciated! I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did. I already have the next books lined up and can’t wait to dive into them, so you can expect more Chris Carter reviews coming your way soon.
If you’re a Chris Carter fan, I’d love to hear your thoughts on the Robert Hunter series. Does the author manage to maintain the same intensity throughout the rest of the books? Share your opinions in the comments below—I look forward to hearing from you!
Until next time, happy reading!
