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Cruel and Unusual

The Scarpetta Series, Book 4

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Cruel and Unusual

By: Patricia Cornwell
Narrated by: Lorelei King
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When convicted killer Ronnie Joe Waddell is executed in Virginia’s electric chair, he becomes what should be a routine postmortem case for Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Kay Scarpetta. But after Waddell’s execution the murders continue, as everyone connected to him begins to die - including members of Scarpetta’s staff.

Then, when crucial records disappear from her files, Scarpetta comes under fire for incompetence. Caught in a web of political intrigue and betrayed by those she trusted, Scarpetta must fight to free herself from murderous insinuations and threats to her own life.

To save her career, Scarpetta soon finds herself retracing Waddell’s bloody footprints, following a trail that might lead to long-hidden secrets deep within the state government. Either the truth will set her free…or unleash upon her a punishment both cruel and unusual.

©1993 Patricia Cornwell (P)2014 Bolinda Publishing Pty Ltd. Crime Thrillers Genre Fiction Medical Mystery Police Procedurals Psychological Suspense Thriller & Suspense Women Sleuths Fiction Crime Thriller Exciting
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I loved it, it kept me guessing throughout, and listening to the story I feel I take more in.

The plots. and twists

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A great read and performance. The story is read well with characters well defined, I’m much preferring the vocal style given to the older Lucy 😊

Another great Scarpetta

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Great storyline, a little different from the others I’ve read, had me anxious time for what may happen to the lead character, can’t wait to hear the next.

Fabulous as usual

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Loved the story. Marino is my favourite character. Well written and well presented. I can’t wait to listen to the next one in the series

Loved it

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If you could sum up Cruel and Unusual in three words, what would they be?

engaging, intriguing, disappointing

What was the most interesting aspect of this story? The least interesting?

Some fascinating twists.

The main story wasn't as fascinating as the twists.

Have you listened to any of Lorelei King’s other performances? How does this one compare?

Yes. She is the voice of Scarpetta. I am not sure this book would be as good without her.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

There should/could have been, but there wasn't.

Ultimately unsatisfying

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