BLOOD MEMORY- Greg Iles

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Some memories live deep in the soul, indelible and dangerous, waiting to be resurrected....

Blood Memory is a dark, disturbing, passionate and horrific novel of sexual child abuse, violence, killing, suicide, depression, and mystery. This was my first Greg Iles, and I’m yet to read another one of his; but it is definitely because of this book. This is perhaps one of the best books written by a male author from a female protagonist’s point of view.

Catherine Ferry is a 31 year old forensic specialist, who on a case that appears to be a string of serial killings, starts getting panic attacks. Plus, there is also the case of her father’s brutal death that plays in her mind. In her quest for the truth, she opens the door to a disturbing family history that puts her at both physical and emotional risk, and eventually leads her to an unexpected serial killer.

It is an engrossing book, a fast read, and might even end up being a startling fast read. Within the frame of entertainment, it is an excellent read. Greg Iles has a wonderful way of writing. The lead character is so flawed that it will blow your mind; but there are reasons for her dysfunctional lifestyle and unjustified behavioural patterns.  Iles has blended the sensitive subjects of sexual abuse, race relations, and economic class differences into one hell of a ride.

The story has the combination of subjects like repressed memory, forensic dentistry, incest and psychology, which make this a read that is not for everyone because of its unsettling content which is shocking at parts. Though it can be considered a little heavy because of its mental imagery, gristly descriptions and mature subject matter, there is no denying the fact that Iles comes out as one of the most flexible and unique writers of fiction today. The mix of shaded characters, varied and fascinating narrative, razor-fast plot, multitude of subjects and horrible topics make this one of the best thrillers of our times.

Another amazing aspect of the book is that it informs, provokes and disturbs in a way that only thoughtful and reflective thrillers with depth can. It is not a book that makes you go ‘Ah!’, but it does serve its function to entertain and at the same time, evokes thoughts and make people question and re-evaluate their attitude towards social flaws. An absolute must-read!

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