The Body Finder Summary of Kimberly Derting's Book

The Body Finder: Unraveling the Mysteries of Life and Death

If you're a fan of young adult literature, mystery, and the paranormal, then Kimberly Derting's novel The Body Finder is a must-read for you. First published on March 16, 2010, this gripping tale follows the life of Violet Ambrose, a sixteen-year-old with a unique ability to sense dead bodies and their killers. As she navigates the complexities of friendship, love, and death, Violet finds herself drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a serial killer terrorizing her small town.

Characters

Violet Ambrose: The protagonist of the story, Violet struggles to come to terms with her ability to sense dead bodies. She is torn between her feelings for her best friend Jay and her duty to stop a serial killer.

Jay Heaton: Violet's best friend since childhood, Jay is fiercely protective of her. He reluctantly agrees to help her track down the killer, revealing his true feelings along the way.

Claire Amadeus: One of Violet's close friends, Claire is supportive and caring, providing a sense of normalcy in Violet's chaotic world.

Chelsea Morrison: Another friend of Violet, Chelsea adds humor and lightness to the story, providing moments of relief from the dark subject matter.

Lissie Adams: A girl from Violet's school who falls victim to the serial killer, Lissie's death haunts Violet and motivates her to take action.

Maggie Ambrose: Violet's mother, Maggie is a strong and supportive presence in Violet's life, helping her navigate the challenges she faces.

Stephen Ambrose: Violet's father, Stephen is a pillar of strength and stability for his family, providing guidance and wisdom in difficult times.

Kathryn Ambrose: Violet's younger sister, Kathryn is a source of innocence and joy in Violet's life, reminding her of the beauty in the world despite its darkness.

Joshua Ambrose: Violet's older brother, Joshua is a protective figure who looks out for his family, especially Violet, in times of danger.

Cassidy Ambrose: Violet's grandmother, Cassidy is a wise and mysterious presence, offering cryptic advice and support to Violet as she navigates her abilities.

Detailed Summary

The Body Finder follows Violet Ambrose as she grapples with her ability to sense dead bodies and their killers. Since she was a child, Violet has been able to feel the echoes of the dead and the imprints left on their killers, a power that both fascinates and terrifies her.

When a serial killer begins targeting young girls in Violet's town, she realizes that she may be the only one who can stop him. With the help of her best friend Jay, Violet sets out on a mission to track down the killer before he strikes again.

As Violet and Jay delve deeper into the investigation, they uncover dark secrets and hidden dangers. Along the way, they must confront their own feelings for each other, leading to a complex and emotional journey of self-discovery and courage.

As the tension mounts and the stakes grow higher, Violet must rely on her unique abilities to outwit the killer and save herself and those she loves. But as she gets closer to the truth, she realizes that she may be in more danger than she ever imagined.

Extensive Analysis

The Body Finder is a captivating blend of mystery, suspense, and romance that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Kimberly Derting masterfully weaves together the paranormal elements of Violet's abilities with the gritty reality of a small town plagued by a serial killer.

The character development in the novel is particularly strong, with each character experiencing growth and transformation throughout the story. Violet's internal struggle with her powers and her conflicted feelings for Jay add depth and complexity to her character, making her a relatable and compelling protagonist.

Furthermore, the suspenseful plot keeps readers guessing until the very end, with twists and turns that will leave them breathless. Derting's writing is evocative and atmospheric, creating a sense of foreboding and unease that permeates every page.

Overall, The Body Finder is a gripping and thought-provoking read that explores themes of love, loss, and the darkness that lurks within us all. It is a thrilling start to the The Body Finder saga, setting the stage for an epic battle between good and evil that will keep readers hooked until the very last page.

Final thoughts

If you're a fan of young adult fiction, mystery, and the paranormal, The Body Finder is a must-read for you. With its compelling characters, suspenseful plot, and evocative writing, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Purchase the complete book or listen to the audiobook to experience the full impact of this gripping tale of life, death, and the power of love.

9780061779817 (ISBN10: 0061779814)