'When the Bough Breaks' by Jonathan Kellerman is the first book in the Alex Delaware series, introducing readers to Dr. Alex Delaware, a retired child psychologist who gets involved in a complex case with Detective Milo Sturgis. The storyline revolves around a double murder where the only witness is a young girl named Melody Quinn. As Alex delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a disturbing conspiracy involving child abuse and corruption in the glittering world of California. The writing style is described as engaging, with a good balance of plot complexity and character development, making it a gripping mystery.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, featuring a compassionate psychologist, a witty detective, and a range of supporting roles that enhance the intricate plot.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is generally smooth and engaging, though some readers find it unnecessarily detailed at times.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative revolves around intricate mysteries involving child abuse and murder, with a poignant focus on a vulnerable child as a crucial witness.

Setting:

The setting predominantly takes place in Los Angeles, reflecting 1980s social concerns and encompassing a range of environments related to crime.

Pacing:

The pacing can be inconsistent, with periods of slow detail juxtaposed against suspenseful moments that keep readers engaged.

A cool Pacific current had swept its way across the coastline for two days running, propelling the pollution to Pasadena. My house is nestled in the foothills just north of Bel Air, situated atop an o...

Notes:

The first book in the Alex Delaware series is titled 'When the Bough Breaks'.

Alex Delaware is a child psychologist who becomes involved in criminal investigations.

Milo Sturgis, a gay homicide detective, is Alex's best friend and partner in solving cases.

The story revolves around child abuse and murder, touching on dark topics.

The book was published in 1985, making it a classic in the mystery genre.

Readers note the complexity of the plot and various red herrings throughout the investigation.

Kellerman uses his background in psychology to add depth to the character of Alex Delaware.

The novel has a gritty depiction of crime that resonates with readers even decades later.

Character development is highlighted, especially the friendship between Alex and Milo.

The narrative style is accessible, engaging readers despite the heavy subject matter.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book contains high content warnings related to child abuse, murder, and psychological trauma, which can be triggering for some readers.

From The Publisher:

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

Dr. Morton Hander practiced a strange brand of psychiatry. Among his specialties were fraud, extortion, and sexual manipulation. Hander paid for his sins when he was brutally murdered in his luxurious Pacific Palisades apartment. The police have no leads, but they do have one possible witness: seven-year-old Melody Quinn.

"An engrossing thriller . . . This knockout of an entertainment is the kind of book which establishes a career in one stroke."-Newsday

It's psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware's job to try to unlock the terrible secret buried in Meldoy's memory. But as the sinister shadows in the girl's mind begin to take shape, Alex discovers that the mystery touches a shocking incident in his own past. And behind it lies an unspeakable evil that Alex Delaware must expose before it claims another innocent victim.

Ratings (14)

Incredible (1)
Loved It (3)
Liked It (5)
It Was OK (5)

Reader Stats (25):

Read It (14)
Want To Read (8)
Not Interested (3)

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About the Author:

Jonathan Kellerman is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than forty crime novels, including the Alex Delaware series, The Butcher's Theater, Billy Straight, The Conspiracy Club, Twisted, True Detectives, and The Murderer's Daughter. With his wife, bestselling novelist Faye Kellerman, he co-authored Double Homicide and Capital Crimes. With his son,…

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