Jupiter's Bones

Many readers found this book to be an absorbing and engaging read, particularly appreciating its exploration of cults, their leaders, power dynamics, and the extremes of human ego. The core mystery, revolving around a suspicious death within a closed cult community, was often praised for its intriguing premise and ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Fans of the Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series enjoyed the continued development of the main characters and the tantalizing glimpses into their family life, with some finding the personal challenges faced by the family to be especially touching. The plot was noted for its interesting twists, and some found the overall narrative to be fast-paced and well-written, with real and well-defined characters. For those new to the author, the book was often a positive introduction, prompting them to explore more of the series.

However, "Jupiter's Bones" proved to be a divisive read for many, with a significant number of reviewers expressing disappointment. Some long-time fans felt it was one of the weaker installments in the series, citing a disjointed narrative, a slow pace, and events that felt like they jumped around. The plot was sometimes criticized as cliched, simplistic, or even preposterous, with some finding the characters one-dimensional. Several readers struggled to stay engaged, describing the book as dragging or failing to connect in places, leading some to abandon it. Other criticisms included the book feeling dated, an overwhelming amount of peripheral family drama for some tastes, and a perceived lack of explanation for Jewish references and terms, which proved distracting for non-familiar readers. Some reviewers also noted issues with the plot's planning, a sudden shift in the cult's nature, or specific plot resolutions that felt unsatisfying.

Overall, "Jupiter's Bones" elicits a mixed response, standing out as a polarizing entry in the Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series. While it offers an intriguing investigation into a cult and provides continued insights into the beloved detective's personal life, it also drew criticism for its pacing, plot execution, and perceived departure from the series' usual strengths. This book would likely appeal most to established fans of Faye Kellerman's Peter Decker series who are invested in the characters' ongoing development and don't mind a slower, more character-driven mystery with dark themes and an intense confrontation. New readers might find it a decent entry point, but those seeking a tightly plotted, consistently fast-paced thriller or a standalone mystery may find it less satisfying.