Eyes of Prey by John Sandford
Mystery
Finished 3/1/06
Rating: B (6/10 So-so)
I rarely ever read a series out of order. It just goes against my nature. Yet my first encounter with Sandford’s “Prey” series was his most recent release in the series. Rod was in the middle of Broken Prey and told me about a specific plot line that piqued my interest. I hadn’t really planned to read the entire series, but once he finished and I was able to read the book, I was hooked and wanted more. Of course I went back and started from the beginning and now have just finished the third in the series. Thank goodness for anal retentiveness! Had Eyes of Prey been the first or second, I doubt I would’ve continued. I didn’t like the book nearly as much as its predecessors. It wasn’t terrible, but it certainly wasn’t anything that would make me rush out and look for more. I’m not really sure what was missing. Davenport wasn’t as interesting and the killer (Bekker) was just far too creepy – the epitome of a sicko. The latter’s drug episodes became a bit tedious, further tainting my opinion of the series.
Having said that, I have to admit that the ending was a jaw-dropper and I found myself thumbing back though the book, re-reading several passages, looking for clues I might have missed. It was definitely unexpected. Actually, there was more than one surprising twist, which helped to redeem Sandford’s ability in this reader’s eyes (no pun intended!) and today I picked up the fourth in the series. Drat! Bekker’s back, turning up just like a bad penny. Oh, well. I can’t stop now. Another fairly new character has returned as well and I’m curious to see where it will all lead. Guess that’s the point. Stay tuned.
I'm coming over via your link on my thoughts of Eyes of Prey. I agree with the "drug episodes" - definitely tedious; however, I liked the story line better than #2. I'm looking forward to #4 and see that Bekker's back. Hmmm
ReplyDeleteJoy - Wow! This was such an early post, you're my only commenter! ;)
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to see what you think of the #4. I need to figure out which one I need to read next. I think I'm about halfway through the series.
Just checked. I think I've read 13! I'm shocked. I didn't realize I'd read that many. I may catch up yet. ;)
OOH! I just last night finished #3 and it creeped me out! I also didn't like it as much as others. I read one from the middle and the second from last before giving in and starting at #1..2, and now 3. I echo your sentiments almost exactly! Besides, in my copy anyway, there were typos throughout-ever "out" was "but" and there was another that I can't think of at this moment.
ReplyDeleteI am glad I bought #4, and started it right away. Not looking forward to more Bekker-but we will see how it goes. I am happy to see Lily make another appearance.
Linda - Wow. This is an old review! Thanks for your comment, though. Yep, Sandford has a way of really creeping you out, doesn't he? I need to get back to this series. I think the last one I read was #13 (Mortal Prey).
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