The Naturals is group of teens that possess the uncanny ability to figure out criminal behaviors and patterns. Their presence is a secret and they are kept at a sort of "safe" house by the FBI. The kids have different gifts but work together to solve cold cases. When a new serial killer appears on the scene, the kids are dying (I know, put intended) to get their hands on the case file. Their new "house mother" has no intention of letting the kids in on the case; if it were up to her, their group would be disbanded immediately.Dean, in particular, has the most interest in the new case. The killer is copying what Dean's own father did to his victims. Cassis and the others vow to help Dean overcome the memory of his father and find the killer. With Lia, Cassie and Michael in his corner, will Dean ever hope for a future and forget the past?Agent Sterling has secrets of her own, and Cassie makes it her business to find out what they are. Working with the methodical precision of Sherlock Holmes, Cassie begins profiling the agent to understand what makes her tick and why she arrives at their house. Surely the FBI has better things to do other than babysit a few teenagers. What is the real motivation behind Sterling's appearance?The dynamic between the teens who share a house is at times argumentative but mostly is a tightly woven bond between explosive personalities who share the common goal of getting the bad guy (or girl).Barnes manages to keep the banter quick and light even when characters are discussing the MO of a serial killer. Killer Instinct is a cross between "CSI," "Veronica Mars," and "Dexter." Fans of mystery and crime thrillers will love this novel.Recommended grade 9-up. Mature subject matter. Ages 14 and up 384 pages 9781423105122
Recommended by: Pamela Thompson, MLIS, Library Media Specialist, Texas USA
To see more of her recommendations: https://booksbypamelathompson.blogspot.com
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Cassie Hobbes and her friends have different gifts that give them innate crime solving abilities. They have been brought together to form a group called “The Naturals” that has been created by the FBI. Even though they are only supposed to work on cold cases they have once again been pulled into an active case - of a serial murderer.
But this time it hits too close to home for Dean whose dad is sitting in prison for killing several women. Who is this murderer and why is he copying the murders that Dean’s dad performed? A new agent moves into the house that comes across as cold and fearsome with no feelings. But who is she really on the inside?
What connections are between her and Dean? Why is she really here? As the kids start getting actively involved will someone get hurt and will questions get answered?
375 pages 9781424168324 Ages 14 and up
Recommended by: Joleen Waltman Library Media Generalist, Idaho USA
