04 September 2023
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To mark the tenth anniversary of Nathan Dylan Goodwin's genealogy mysteries, Paul Chiddicks reviews two of Nathan's recent releases.
The Chester Creek Murders (Venator Cold Case Series) by Nathan Dylan Goodwin
Paul Chiddicks reviews the first in a new series of genealogy crime thrillers
I am a massive fan of Nathan Dylan Goodwin’s books and I have read and thoroughly enjoyed all the Morton Farrier books. I must admit that I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with Nathan’s new series, The Venator Cold case series, but I was completely blown away and totally gripped by this superb book.
The story is set in Salt Lake City in America and The Venator cold case team are an expert team of genetic genealogists using their collective skills to solve long-standing cold case murders in America. As you would expect from a book written by Nathan, the genealogical details and DNA expertise, take you step by step through the processes required to solve a case like this. The attention to detail is exemplary, especially the Police procedures and processes, which are thoroughly well researched. There are the usual subplots involving the personal lives of The Venator cold case team, which all add to the mystery and intrigue.
Don't miss Family Tree's interview with Nathan Dylan Goodwin on 15 September 2023, 3pm UK time on Zoom. Find out more here.
Getting to know the main characters in the book is part of the fun and Nathan always gives you a sense that you actually know these people at the end of the book. This really is one of those books that you just can’t put down, the intensity building the closer you get to the end.
Independently published at £18.99 (hb), £4.99 (eb), ISBN 9798364076465
The Sawtooth Slayer (Venator Cold Case Series Book 2) by Nathan Dylan Goodwin
Paul Chiddicks reviews Nathan Dylan Goodwin’s cold case thriller
Suspense and thriller writing at it’s absolute best! Nathan Dylan Goodwin delivers once again in the second of the cold case series of books entitled The Sawtooth Slayer. Nathan’s books are always so thoroughly well researched and detailed and they really leave you on the edge of your seat. If you love family history, genealogy and working with DNA, then you are definitely in for a real treat.
What I love about these books is the way that Nathan develops the characters who form part of the Venator cold case team and they each have their own back story and sub plot, which takes you on a real roller coaster, aside from the main story itself, which is both gripping and harrowing. In this book, the team area actually tracking a real life serial killer and trying to find out who he is before he strikes again. A true race against time. Initially the Venator team are reluctant to take on a live case, preferring to stick to their tried and tested method of solving cold cases, Maddie and the team are persuaded to take the case on, but the clock is ticking once the next girl goes missing. You will not be able to put this book down as the suspense builds to the final outcome. The best book you will read all summer.
Independently published, £18.24 (hb), £4.99 (eb) ISBN 9798362697792.
For more information, visit Nathan Dylan Goodwin's website.