Kathryn Fox Malicious Intent

Malicious Intent

Kathryn Fox

Harper Collins, Apr 25, 2006, $13.95

ISBN: 0060857951

In the Sydney area, forensic pathologist and forensic physician Anya Rose Crichton works free lance mostly for defense teams. Though an expert, Anya still struggles with acceptance in an all male field, that is except for her. Anya also has problems with her ex-spouse Martin who has custody of their three year old son and receives child support though she hopes to hire a lawyer soon to fight to change the arrangement so she has more quality time with little Ben.

Sydney Sergeant Detective Kate Farrer asks Anya to look into the alleged suicide of Clare Matthews, the latest of a string of women who vanished for a short time just before taking their lives. Apparently Clare was about to take her vows before disappearing, but died six weeks pregnant. At the same time lawyer Dan Brody sends Anoub Deab to obtain the services of Anya to investigate the circumstances behind a drug overdose by his sister Fatima who vanished seven weeks ago only to be found dead a month later. She begins to see a link between her two cases and other recent "suicides" not aware how close to home the case will soon turn.

MALICIOUS INTENT is a delightful forensic investigative tale starring a fascinating heroine trying to break through the glass floor (forget the ceiling) in an all male occupation. Though Anya carries the usual personal baggage (why not a heroine with a supporting spouse or significant other encouraging her - that would be refreshing in novels), her investigative work starting with her explanation of a knifing death on the stand to the final confrontation will grip readers. Fans will compare favorably Kathryn Fox to Patricia Cornwall and Kathy Reichs as MALICIOUS INTENT is a strong thriller.

Harriet Klausner