What do you think?
Rate this book
Alex Delaware #38
Unnatural History
"The most enduring detectives in American crime fiction are back in this electrifying thriller of art and brutality from the #1 New York Times bestselling master of suspense. Los Angeles is a city of stark contrast, the palaces of the affluent coexisting uneasily with the hellholes of the mad and the needy. It is that shadow world and the violence it breeds that draw brilliant psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis into an unsettling case of altruism gone wrong. On a superficially lovely morning a woman shows up for work with her usual enthusiasm. She's the newly hired personal assistant to a handsome, wealthy photographer and is ready to greet her boss with coffee and good cheer. Instead, she finds him slumped in bed, shot to death. The victim had recently received rave media attention for his latest images of homeless people in their personal "dream" situations, elaborately costumed and enacting unfulfilled fantasies. There are some, however, who view the whole thing as nothing more than crass exploitation, citing token payments and the victim's avoidance of any long-term relationships with his subjects. Has disgruntlement blossomed into homicidal rage? Or do the roots of violence reach down to the victim's family-a clan, sired by an elusive billionaire, that is bizarre in its own right? Then new murders arise, and Alex and Milo begin peeling back layer after layer of intrigue and complexity, culminating in one of the deadliest threats they've ever faced"--
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2023
About the author
Jonathan Kellerman
246 books5,450 followersJonathan Kellerman was born in New York City in 1949 and grew up in Los Angeles. He helped work his way through UCLA as an editorial cartoonist, columnist, editor and freelance musician. As a senior, at the age of 22, he won a Samuel Goldwyn Writing Award for fiction.
Like his fictional protagonist, Alex Delaware, Jonathan received at Ph.D. in psychology at the age of 24, with a specialty in the treatment of children. He served internships in clinical psychology and pediatric psychology at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and was a post-doctoral HEW Fellow in Psychology and Human Development at CHLA.
IN 1975, Jonathan was asked by the hospital to conduct research into the psychological effects of extreme isolation (plastic bubble units) on children with cancer, and to coordinate care for these kids and their families. The success of that venture led to the establishment, in 1977 of the Psychosocial Program, Division of Oncology, the first comprehensive approach to the emotional aspects of pediatric cancer anywhere in the world. Jonathan was asked to be founding director and, along with his team, published extensively in the area of behavioral medicine. Decades later, the program, under the tutelage of one of Jonathan's former students, continues to break ground.
Jonathan's first published book was a medical text, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF CHILDHOOD CANCER, 1980. One year later, came a book for parents, HELPING THE FEARFUL CHILD.
In 1985, Jonathan's first novel, WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS, was published to enormous critical and commercial success and became a New York Times bestseller. BOUGH was also produced as a t.v. movie and won the Edgar Allan Poe and Anthony Boucher Awards for Best First Novel. Since then, Jonathan has published a best-selling crime novel every year, and occasionally, two a year. In addition, he has written and illustrated two books for children and a nonfiction volume on childhood violence, SAVAGE SPAWN (1999.) Though no longer active as a psychotherapist, he is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Psychology at University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine.
Jonathan is married to bestselling novelist Faye Kellerman and they have four children.
Like his fictional protagonist, Alex Delaware, Jonathan received at Ph.D. in psychology at the age of 24, with a specialty in the treatment of children. He served internships in clinical psychology and pediatric psychology at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and was a post-doctoral HEW Fellow in Psychology and Human Development at CHLA.
IN 1975, Jonathan was asked by the hospital to conduct research into the psychological effects of extreme isolation (plastic bubble units) on children with cancer, and to coordinate care for these kids and their families. The success of that venture led to the establishment, in 1977 of the Psychosocial Program, Division of Oncology, the first comprehensive approach to the emotional aspects of pediatric cancer anywhere in the world. Jonathan was asked to be founding director and, along with his team, published extensively in the area of behavioral medicine. Decades later, the program, under the tutelage of one of Jonathan's former students, continues to break ground.
Jonathan's first published book was a medical text, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF CHILDHOOD CANCER, 1980. One year later, came a book for parents, HELPING THE FEARFUL CHILD.
In 1985, Jonathan's first novel, WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS, was published to enormous critical and commercial success and became a New York Times bestseller. BOUGH was also produced as a t.v. movie and won the Edgar Allan Poe and Anthony Boucher Awards for Best First Novel. Since then, Jonathan has published a best-selling crime novel every year, and occasionally, two a year. In addition, he has written and illustrated two books for children and a nonfiction volume on childhood violence, SAVAGE SPAWN (1999.) Though no longer active as a psychotherapist, he is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Psychology at University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine.
Jonathan is married to bestselling novelist Faye Kellerman and they have four children.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 837 reviews
February 9, 2023
Unnatural History
by Jonathan Kellerman brings more than just murder and suspense to the 38th book in the Alex Delaware series. It combines a police procedural with psychology to bring additional insights into the story and people. The books also tend to be cerebral in nature.
Los Angeles Police Lieutenant Milo Sturgis and psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware team up again when Milo is called to the scene of the murder of a handsome, wealthy photographer, Donny Klement. He was found dead by his new personal assistant, Mel Gornick. His latest project is one of homeless people in their “dream” situations. Did one of them feel exploited? Was it a simple robbery gone wrong or does his death have something to do with his family or inheritance?
Milo and Alex have been friends for years and while they often approach cases from different standpoints, their investigative and cognitive techniques gel as well as their dispositions, and they keep the cases fresh, entertaining and moving along. The way they bounce ideas off of each other feels natural. At this stage of the series, the main characters are well known to this reader and have depth. Some secondary characters from previous books in the series show up to keep things interesting and provide additional awareness of how Milo and his team work together. However, some were missing from this story line entirely. Milo’s partner was only mentioned in passing.
The writing style flowed well and I knew I was back with old friends. Kellerman’s writing is polished and appealing, doing a good job of transporting me to the Los Angeles area. Whether they are talking about or experiencing the traffic or food or the people, I was living the events with Milo and Alex. They both want to achieve justice and hold bad people accountable for their actions. The story had several twists and there were a couple of surprises along the way.
As always, the story is descriptive. This book will thrill fans of crime thrillers who relish a story with realistic and diverse characters. Additionally, several themes are explored including mental health, addiction, friendship, family, jealousy, and much more. This riveting mystery kept me turning the pages quickly.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Milo and Alex’s world and their latest case. It was an engaging read with a deeply involved plot and a solid mystery to unravel. I also liked the insights into Alex’s work with child custody cases.
Readers that like the series, mysteries, and police procedurals should enjoy this latest novel. I don’t recommend jumping into this series at number 38, though. Start earlier in the series to have the best reading experience. I have read over 20 books in the series and plan to read them all. They’re never disappointing.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine and Jonathan Kellerman via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 7, 2023.
----------------------------------------
My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Los Angeles Police Lieutenant Milo Sturgis and psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware team up again when Milo is called to the scene of the murder of a handsome, wealthy photographer, Donny Klement. He was found dead by his new personal assistant, Mel Gornick. His latest project is one of homeless people in their “dream” situations. Did one of them feel exploited? Was it a simple robbery gone wrong or does his death have something to do with his family or inheritance?
Milo and Alex have been friends for years and while they often approach cases from different standpoints, their investigative and cognitive techniques gel as well as their dispositions, and they keep the cases fresh, entertaining and moving along. The way they bounce ideas off of each other feels natural. At this stage of the series, the main characters are well known to this reader and have depth. Some secondary characters from previous books in the series show up to keep things interesting and provide additional awareness of how Milo and his team work together. However, some were missing from this story line entirely. Milo’s partner was only mentioned in passing.
The writing style flowed well and I knew I was back with old friends. Kellerman’s writing is polished and appealing, doing a good job of transporting me to the Los Angeles area. Whether they are talking about or experiencing the traffic or food or the people, I was living the events with Milo and Alex. They both want to achieve justice and hold bad people accountable for their actions. The story had several twists and there were a couple of surprises along the way.
As always, the story is descriptive. This book will thrill fans of crime thrillers who relish a story with realistic and diverse characters. Additionally, several themes are explored including mental health, addiction, friendship, family, jealousy, and much more. This riveting mystery kept me turning the pages quickly.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Milo and Alex’s world and their latest case. It was an engaging read with a deeply involved plot and a solid mystery to unravel. I also liked the insights into Alex’s work with child custody cases.
Readers that like the series, mysteries, and police procedurals should enjoy this latest novel. I don’t recommend jumping into this series at number 38, though. Start earlier in the series to have the best reading experience. I have read over 20 books in the series and plan to read them all. They’re never disappointing.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine and Jonathan Kellerman via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 7, 2023.
----------------------------------------
My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
March 6, 2023
3.5 stars
In this 38th book in the 'Alex Delaware' series, the psychologist helps LAPD detective Milo Sturgis investigate the murder of a photographer. The book can be read as a standalone, but familiarity with the characters is a plus.
*****
LAPD Detective Milo Sturgis.....
.....can always rely on his friend, psychologist Alex Delaware, to assist with difficult cases.
That's the situation when twenty-nine-year-old photographer Donny Klement is found shot to death in his studio.
Donny's young assistant Melissande Gornick - who called 911 - is hysterical, and Alex is summoned to calm the girl down so she can answer questions.
Once Melissande is able to speak, she reveals that Donny was the son of a billionaire named Victor Klement, who Donny never saw. Moreover, Donny had a bunch of half-siblings from Victor's many marriages, most of whom he'd never met. Nevertheless daddy paid all Donny's bills, and Donny had a 'white card' that enabled him to get unlimited cash.
Asked about Donny's acquaintances, Melissande mentions that her boss was doing a photographic project called the Wishers.
The Wishers project - which has received some positive press - turns out to be pairs of color portraits displayed side by side. The left-hand photo shows a dirty disheveled homeless person off the street, and the right-hand photo shows the same person cleaned up and dressed as someone they wish to be. Thus homeless Jack is put into the flight suit of a Top Gun pilot; homeless Beverly is made up as a movie star; homeless Solomon is attired in surgical scrubs; and so on. According to Melissande, each indigent person was paid $100 for the sitting.
It turns out Donny may have been too trusting for his own good. He allowed homeless people to wander around his workshop; rarely set his alarm; didn't lock his car; and may even have left wads of cash lying around his studio, where he slept most nights.
Milo and Alex speculate about two possible motives for Donny's murder: a half-sibling who wanted to increase his/her share of the inheritance; or a homeless person whose appetite for the better life was whetted, and who returned to rob the photographer.
Milo and his team of detectives investigate these possibilities, and Alex joins Milo when the cop interviews people of interest. Additional murders complicate the picture, and the investigation becomes more difficult before a break finally occurs.
In Alex's personal life, he sees patients in his child psychology practice; hangs out with his longtime girlfriend Robin and their cute French bulldog Blanche; plays his guitar and listens to jazz; etc.
As for Milo, he shows off his usual gargantuan appetite by ordering an extra large portion of fried shrimp and curly fries when he and Alex have lunch at a seafood restaurant.
Kellerman has a deft hand with description, and it's easy to picture the characters and what they're wearing. We also see Milo and Alex's peregrinations around Los Angeles, which provides a good feel for the sprawling city.
I enjoyed the book, which has an engaging plot and favorite recurring characters. Recommended to readers who like police procedurals, especially fans of Alex Delaware.
Thanks to Netgalley, Jonathan Kellerman, and Random House Publishing Group for a copy of the manuscript.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
February 5, 2023
Lieutenant Milo Sturgis and Dr Alex Delaware were once again searching the streets of Los Angeles for a killer. Donny had been murdered - three gunshots to the chest - and uncovering a motive was proving a challenge. Searching back through Donny's family uncovered a myriad of strangeness, all stemming from Donny's father. Donny was a kind, gentle man who tried to help people, and in this case it was the homeless. Could it have been one of them who had done this to Donny?
Gradually, slowly, information was uncovered. But Milo couldn't pin what his thoughts were to any one person. Alex was helpful - yin and yang - but would it prove positive? After more murders, thoughts were cemented. But was there a result in there somewhere?
Unnatural History is #38 in the long-running Alex Delaware series and this wasn't one of Jonathan Kellerman's best in my opinion. Checking back to my previous ratings, it wasn't until #25 that I gave 5 stars. It was good to catch up with Milo and Alex, as well as Robin and Blanche and their koi pond. I'm not sure if I'll continue this series - wait and see :)
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Gradually, slowly, information was uncovered. But Milo couldn't pin what his thoughts were to any one person. Alex was helpful - yin and yang - but would it prove positive? After more murders, thoughts were cemented. But was there a result in there somewhere?
Unnatural History is #38 in the long-running Alex Delaware series and this wasn't one of Jonathan Kellerman's best in my opinion. Checking back to my previous ratings, it wasn't until #25 that I gave 5 stars. It was good to catch up with Milo and Alex, as well as Robin and Blanche and their koi pond. I'm not sure if I'll continue this series - wait and see :)
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2023
3.5 / 5
An entertaining who-done-it with characters I have got to know and love over the years – Alex and Milo and their sometimes amusing banter.
A wealthy photographer has been murdered in his studio – his project was finding homeless people and having them dress up in costumes relating to the personas they wished to be, taking before and after photos, giving them a bit of cash and sending them on their way. From the get-go you can tell this is not the best idea.
I found an underlying theme in this book where I suspect Kellerman was attempting to address the problem of homelessness. On Page 166 Alex explores outpatient treatment of mentally ill people and opines how ineffective it is and why. He says: “Once things get political they turn toxic.”
When the villain is revealed I was disappointed and felt it was remote and unrealistic, but I enjoy these books as respite from anything too deep and/or serious…it’s just good entertainment.
An entertaining who-done-it with characters I have got to know and love over the years – Alex and Milo and their sometimes amusing banter.
A wealthy photographer has been murdered in his studio – his project was finding homeless people and having them dress up in costumes relating to the personas they wished to be, taking before and after photos, giving them a bit of cash and sending them on their way. From the get-go you can tell this is not the best idea.
I found an underlying theme in this book where I suspect Kellerman was attempting to address the problem of homelessness. On Page 166 Alex explores outpatient treatment of mentally ill people and opines how ineffective it is and why. He says: “Once things get political they turn toxic.”
When the villain is revealed I was disappointed and felt it was remote and unrealistic, but I enjoy these books as respite from anything too deep and/or serious…it’s just good entertainment.
September 22, 2022
So after 38 books, Jonathan Kellerman proves that he can still draw you in and hold your attention while proving once again that Alex Delaware and Milo work well together. This time it explores the very sensitive, current topic of homelessness in and around the gritty Los Angeles area.
Adonis "Donny" Klement, a handsome wealthy photographer, follows the lives of LA's homeless population until he is shot in his apartment. Homeless people share their history and what they really had wanted in life. Rave media reviews had been rolling in for his new project portraying images of street people in personal “dream” situations, dressed and enacting fantasies of their lives. There are some, however, who view the whole thing as nothing more than exploitation and become angered. After Donny finishes his series, he leaves them to their real life that they were living. Now he has been killed. Suspects are many so Detective Milo Sturgis calls in his longtime friend, brilliant psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware to help solve and understand a complex case. Who had motive to kill the photographer? Was it a relative wanting financial gain? Or was it one of the street people seeking revenge? As usual, this is packed with intrigue and funny one-liners from Milo which moves the story right along. If you are already an Alex Delaware fan, you will definitely enjoy it. If you haven’t read any of these books yet, why not?
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House for an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Adonis "Donny" Klement, a handsome wealthy photographer, follows the lives of LA's homeless population until he is shot in his apartment. Homeless people share their history and what they really had wanted in life. Rave media reviews had been rolling in for his new project portraying images of street people in personal “dream” situations, dressed and enacting fantasies of their lives. There are some, however, who view the whole thing as nothing more than exploitation and become angered. After Donny finishes his series, he leaves them to their real life that they were living. Now he has been killed. Suspects are many so Detective Milo Sturgis calls in his longtime friend, brilliant psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware to help solve and understand a complex case. Who had motive to kill the photographer? Was it a relative wanting financial gain? Or was it one of the street people seeking revenge? As usual, this is packed with intrigue and funny one-liners from Milo which moves the story right along. If you are already an Alex Delaware fan, you will definitely enjoy it. If you haven’t read any of these books yet, why not?
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House for an ARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
January 18, 2023
This is the 38th book in the Alex Delaware series and I have read all of them. Obviously, I enjoy the investigative duo of Detective Milo Sturgis and psychologist Delaware, as well as all the supporting characters and look forward to each new addition. Whenever I crack open a Kellerman book, I can’t seem to put it down.
When a photographer is found dead, the investigative duo look into the victim’s wealthy but eccentric family as well as his recent shoot involving homeless individuals.
Kellerman writes true police procedurals, albeit a little different due to Milo being unconventional and Alex along to provide psychological insight. True, they do tend to be a bit formulaic, as Alex and Milo chase down leads, generate and discuss different theories, interview persons of interest, enjoy a few good meals. Kellerman’s descriptions are particularly picturesque and entertaining and he always seems to put a fresh spin on cases, although I wasn’t as fond of number 38 as some of the prior in the series.
This can be read as a standalone, but if you are familiar with this series, it is always enjoyable to meet up with these familiar characters.
Thanks to #netgalley and #randomhouse #ballantinebooks for the ARC
When a photographer is found dead, the investigative duo look into the victim’s wealthy but eccentric family as well as his recent shoot involving homeless individuals.
Kellerman writes true police procedurals, albeit a little different due to Milo being unconventional and Alex along to provide psychological insight. True, they do tend to be a bit formulaic, as Alex and Milo chase down leads, generate and discuss different theories, interview persons of interest, enjoy a few good meals. Kellerman’s descriptions are particularly picturesque and entertaining and he always seems to put a fresh spin on cases, although I wasn’t as fond of number 38 as some of the prior in the series.
This can be read as a standalone, but if you are familiar with this series, it is always enjoyable to meet up with these familiar characters.
Thanks to #netgalley and #randomhouse #ballantinebooks for the ARC
February 23, 2023
Many years ago, I used to be thoroughly enamoured of this series—in fact, I owned all the books—so I don't know if it's just me and my reading tastes that have changed. This was a decent set-up, but I just couldn't get into the book, and it got more and more tedious. I found the writing pedestrian, and the style started to grate on me after a while. So much so, that I got up to about 80% before giving up. Didn't even care about who did it.
(Review copy from NetGalley)
(Review copy from NetGalley)
October 31, 2022
Big thanks to both Ballantine Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of Unnatural History!
I very much enjoyed reading this book, which finds Dr. Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis involved in an unsettling case of altruism that possibly has gone wrong, and they are forced to peel back layer after layer of intrigue and complexity. The story centers on the murder of Donny (Adonis) Klement, a trusting soul whose photographic project dealt with "The Wishers" - a group of houseless individuals (as they are referred to here in Oregon) who were cleaned up and dressed to be photographed as what they wish their lives would have been. Possibly a movie star? Or a doctor? Or how about a Top Gun pilot?
I love the friendship Alex and Milo share and Unnatural History finds the pair at their best! Anyone who enjoys reading a police procedural, with a fascinating side of psychology, will love Unnatural History. In my opinion, this book can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
I very much enjoyed reading this book, which finds Dr. Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis involved in an unsettling case of altruism that possibly has gone wrong, and they are forced to peel back layer after layer of intrigue and complexity. The story centers on the murder of Donny (Adonis) Klement, a trusting soul whose photographic project dealt with "The Wishers" - a group of houseless individuals (as they are referred to here in Oregon) who were cleaned up and dressed to be photographed as what they wish their lives would have been. Possibly a movie star? Or a doctor? Or how about a Top Gun pilot?
I love the friendship Alex and Milo share and Unnatural History finds the pair at their best! Anyone who enjoys reading a police procedural, with a fascinating side of psychology, will love Unnatural History. In my opinion, this book can definitely be read as a stand-alone.
May 7, 2023
The 38th entry in the Alex Delaware series revolves around homelessness. It starts when Detective Milo Sturgis calls his friend Dr. Alex Delaware. Twenty-nine year old photographer Donny Klement is found shot to death in his studio. The only witness is his assistant, Melissande Gornick, and she is hysterical. Milo needs Alex to help calm her down so that she can be interviewed.
While searching Donny's studio the pair discover photographs of homeless people dressed up. A CEO, a surgeon, a movie star, etc. "The Wishers Project". It was something Donny had been working on for which he had recieved some positive press. Before and after images of homeless people. Donny would compensate his subjects. Did one of the homeless models kill and rob him? In a homicide investigation the family needs to be notified and interviewed. In the case of Donny's family things are unusal. Even for California. His father is billionaire Victor Klement and Donny has several half-siblings. Victor had mutliple marriages that did not last. As soon as a child entered the picture Victor divorced his wife and moved on. He provided for them financially but they did not see each other.
Milo has a couple of other officers assigned to work with him and they begin to search the homeless camps around Los Angeles for the models in Donny's Wisher Project. No easy task. There were eight models in the project. The number of homeless in the city is huge. They do manage to find a couple of the models but they appear to have liked Donny and were grateful to him. Things take a turn when a couple of the models turned up dead. Murdered too. Not random violence that plagues the homeless but rather they were targeted. Is there a connection to Donny?
Although the series started out because Alex is a child psychologist and was brought in where a child was traumatized by a crime that has long since passed. Now Milo calls Alex on anything the least bit strange. The pair are friends and Alex lends his insight. The story was entertaining and kept me interested. It is also insightful into the homeless situation in not just Los Angeles but every city.
While searching Donny's studio the pair discover photographs of homeless people dressed up. A CEO, a surgeon, a movie star, etc. "The Wishers Project". It was something Donny had been working on for which he had recieved some positive press. Before and after images of homeless people. Donny would compensate his subjects. Did one of the homeless models kill and rob him? In a homicide investigation the family needs to be notified and interviewed. In the case of Donny's family things are unusal. Even for California. His father is billionaire Victor Klement and Donny has several half-siblings. Victor had mutliple marriages that did not last. As soon as a child entered the picture Victor divorced his wife and moved on. He provided for them financially but they did not see each other.
Milo has a couple of other officers assigned to work with him and they begin to search the homeless camps around Los Angeles for the models in Donny's Wisher Project. No easy task. There were eight models in the project. The number of homeless in the city is huge. They do manage to find a couple of the models but they appear to have liked Donny and were grateful to him. Things take a turn when a couple of the models turned up dead. Murdered too. Not random violence that plagues the homeless but rather they were targeted. Is there a connection to Donny?
Although the series started out because Alex is a child psychologist and was brought in where a child was traumatized by a crime that has long since passed. Now Milo calls Alex on anything the least bit strange. The pair are friends and Alex lends his insight. The story was entertaining and kept me interested. It is also insightful into the homeless situation in not just Los Angeles but every city.
August 6, 2023
This is the 38th book in the Alex Delaware series and while I haven’t read them all I have read several and I enjoy these characters a lot. I was excited to see this newest installment at my library. While I didn’t find it as hard to put down as previous books in this series, I felt like it was a good mystery. I think I wanted Dr. Delaware to have more of a role with his psychology as I love when the books combine that criminal/psychology. A photographer is found dead at his studio and Detective Milo and Dr. Delaware are both called to the scene. There are lines of investigation related to his family and his work and they both dive right in. The writing is good and this is a quick read.
September 13, 2024
“The science of therapy is knowing what to do. The art is knowing what not to do.”
Well, there certainly can’t be any faulting the insightful psychologist, Alex Delaware, and his quietly homosexual friend, LAPD detective Milo Sturgis, for their longevity, for their popularity and for their dogged determination in bringing all manner of perps to justice. UNNATURAL HISTORY is a murder thriller that deals with themes of wealth versus homelessness and poverty and how, in the mindset of wealth and privilege, altruism can be something less than it ought to be. It may even turn out to be nothing more than exploitation.
But in my reading reality, interest in Delaware and Sturgis’s exploits is fading as their exploits seem to be more dogged and determined than compelling – workmanlike and pedestrian without ever stooping to outright boring, if you will. I’ve also got serious eyebrow raising reservations as to the extent to which author Jonathan Kellerman portrays a psychologist Delaware - who is, after all, only a civilian – as participating directly in police investigations and situations which would be considered as extremely dangerous. I should think that, in a real world operation, Sturgis would be called onto the carpet and severely reprimanded for making such a decision.
Over the years, I’ve accumulated as many as ten to twelve Kellerman titles which have languished unread on my bookshelves. I’ve reached the decision that one more is my limit. If THAT one is more of a grab-you-by-the-throat thriller, I’ll carry on. Otherwise, the entire lot are destined for the local Little Free Library boxes.
Paul Weiss
Well, there certainly can’t be any faulting the insightful psychologist, Alex Delaware, and his quietly homosexual friend, LAPD detective Milo Sturgis, for their longevity, for their popularity and for their dogged determination in bringing all manner of perps to justice. UNNATURAL HISTORY is a murder thriller that deals with themes of wealth versus homelessness and poverty and how, in the mindset of wealth and privilege, altruism can be something less than it ought to be. It may even turn out to be nothing more than exploitation.
But in my reading reality, interest in Delaware and Sturgis’s exploits is fading as their exploits seem to be more dogged and determined than compelling – workmanlike and pedestrian without ever stooping to outright boring, if you will. I’ve also got serious eyebrow raising reservations as to the extent to which author Jonathan Kellerman portrays a psychologist Delaware - who is, after all, only a civilian – as participating directly in police investigations and situations which would be considered as extremely dangerous. I should think that, in a real world operation, Sturgis would be called onto the carpet and severely reprimanded for making such a decision.
Over the years, I’ve accumulated as many as ten to twelve Kellerman titles which have languished unread on my bookshelves. I’ve reached the decision that one more is my limit. If THAT one is more of a grab-you-by-the-throat thriller, I’ll carry on. Otherwise, the entire lot are destined for the local Little Free Library boxes.
Paul Weiss
August 19, 2022
I can’t believe Jonathan Kellerman is actually up to book #38 with the famous “Dr. Alex Delaware.” And wherever we find Alex, you know we will find his best friend, long time compadre Milo Sturgis. What would an Alex Delaware novel be without these two?
In Unnatural History, once again we have Milo bringing a case to Alex. Only this time it is a case about a wealthy young photographer named Donny Klement, who is murdered in his home. The last known project Donny was working on was, “The Wishers project. Donny with help, would take homeless people off the street. He would give them plenty of food and drink, even pay them accordingly, to pose for him as people they wish they could be, if they were famous. All the while he took pictures of them. Next thing you know, Donny ends up dead.
As Milo and Alex begin to uncover who Donny may have wronged. They begin with his illustrious family, starting with his father, Adonis Klement. Adonis Klement is a reclusive billionaire who was married 6 times. None of the half siblings knew each other, and the ones who knew “of” each other, barely knew each other well enough.
SO! It is down to what Milo and Alex do best. Alex goes off to his study and looks at the crime scene alone, while Milo goes and stakes out someone.
The case goes through many twists and turns ala Kellerman style, the way only he knows how.
As usual, the culprit will not get taken down until the very end. Just the way Kellerman is famous for holding out to the very last page.
Unnatural History is another one of Kellermans finest imaginative endeavors, super suspenseful, will have you hanging on the edge of your seat.
This is why Kellerman has been amongst the best for so many years.
No doubt you will not want to put this down, until you are finished reading it.
Donny and his family will leave your head spinning. Just enough for Alex and Milo to dive in and use their expertise to solve the crime.
LOVE KELLERMAN!!!
ANOTHER HOMER FOR JONATHAN KELLERMAN!!!
UNTIL HIS NEXT BOOK!
Thank You NetGalley/Jonathan Kellerman/ Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine.Ballantine Books.
For this amazing wish listed eARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are of my own volition.
In Unnatural History, once again we have Milo bringing a case to Alex. Only this time it is a case about a wealthy young photographer named Donny Klement, who is murdered in his home. The last known project Donny was working on was, “The Wishers project. Donny with help, would take homeless people off the street. He would give them plenty of food and drink, even pay them accordingly, to pose for him as people they wish they could be, if they were famous. All the while he took pictures of them. Next thing you know, Donny ends up dead.
As Milo and Alex begin to uncover who Donny may have wronged. They begin with his illustrious family, starting with his father, Adonis Klement. Adonis Klement is a reclusive billionaire who was married 6 times. None of the half siblings knew each other, and the ones who knew “of” each other, barely knew each other well enough.
SO! It is down to what Milo and Alex do best. Alex goes off to his study and looks at the crime scene alone, while Milo goes and stakes out someone.
The case goes through many twists and turns ala Kellerman style, the way only he knows how.
As usual, the culprit will not get taken down until the very end. Just the way Kellerman is famous for holding out to the very last page.
Unnatural History is another one of Kellermans finest imaginative endeavors, super suspenseful, will have you hanging on the edge of your seat.
This is why Kellerman has been amongst the best for so many years.
No doubt you will not want to put this down, until you are finished reading it.
Donny and his family will leave your head spinning. Just enough for Alex and Milo to dive in and use their expertise to solve the crime.
LOVE KELLERMAN!!!
ANOTHER HOMER FOR JONATHAN KELLERMAN!!!
UNTIL HIS NEXT BOOK!
Thank You NetGalley/Jonathan Kellerman/ Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine.Ballantine Books.
For this amazing wish listed eARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are of my own volition.
February 3, 2023
Alex Delaware and Milo Sturgis are back with the latest strange case set in LA that has Milo seeking Alex’s psychological insights. And a twisted, curvy case it proves to be.
to be continued….
Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book for review.
to be continued….
Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read a copy of this book for review.
December 23, 2022
The 38th installment of the Alex Delaware series and he is once again paired up with Milo Sturgess and consulting on a murder. A photgrapher, Donnie, is murdered. He had been photographing homeless people who he had costumed as the person they had fantasized being. Did one of the homeless subjects kill him? Donnie's father turns out to be a reclusive billionaire who had been married quite a few times with three children by different mothers, and a child on the way with his current fiancee. Maybe one of the other children wanted Donnie's share of the inheritance when the father dies?
The was an interesting, though complex murder investigation and Alex contributed a great deal in helping point Milo towards investigting possible scenarios. I did get lost sometimes in the number of characters. I've enjoyed many of the Alex Delaware novels and while this was not my favorite it was a good, solid read.
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on February 7, 2022.
The was an interesting, though complex murder investigation and Alex contributed a great deal in helping point Milo towards investigting possible scenarios. I did get lost sometimes in the number of characters. I've enjoyed many of the Alex Delaware novels and while this was not my favorite it was a good, solid read.
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on February 7, 2022.
October 7, 2022
Whew. This one pains me to say. It's a miss. I adore Milo and Alex, they're one of my favorite book duos. This one just dragged and dragged. 31% done and I wanted to quit it.. I choked it down. Hopefully others liked it more than I
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 3, 2022
This is the 38th (!) book in the Alex Delaware series (but you can read it as a standalone as well as most of the others) and neither Dr. Delaware or Jonathan Kellerman have lost any of their magic! I think our intriguing clinical psychologist and police whisperer has only aged about 10 years. The familiar characters are still around: Milo, the brilliant police detective; Robin, the luthier and longtime girlfriend; Blanche, the adorable French bulldog; the koi in the pond; the modern home/office in Beverly Glen; and that Cadillac Seville. OK, Doc — it’s really time to get rid of the gas guzzler. You need a Tesla so Sturgis can complain about all the tech stuff. Or Milo dumps the Impala for a Prius. Really, you’re both in California; upgrade for the sake of the environment.
In this narrative, Alex is asked by Milo to consult on the case of murder victim, Donny/Adonis Klement — photographer and son of megabillionaire who married 6 times and had an “only child” with each wife (two children have now met early demises as did a couple of wives, including Donny’s, plus Pregnant Wife #6 is younger than all her step children). Alex and Milo zero in on the messy family as well as Donny’s “The Wishers Project” that brought strangers into Donny’s home. He would dress up homeless people “like full-sized marionettes” and coax them to talk about their fantasies. He has a portfolio of 8 befores and afters, all immediately suspects.
Delaware and Sturgis have a sobering encounter with an array of homeless people and frustrating interviews with family members. More people turn up dead, so it becomes increasingly important to find who killed Donny and why.
The great thing of Kellerman’s series is the deductive adventure he takes you through. Alex and Milo come up with theories, do the research, discover other avenues (or rabbit holes) to pursue, encounter bad things along the way, eat out a lot, but eventually always come to a satisfying solution. I usually find myself at the end of each novel amazed at how it all unfolds. As usual, “Unnatural History” did not disappoint and I can start the countdown to the 39th chapter. 5 stars!
Thank you to Random House Publishing/Ballantine and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): ALWAYS Since Milo has “startling” green eyes. Also a Klement brother has gray-green eyes and Officer Munro also has them.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Kellerman knows his native Southern California landscaping as well as the fact that silver-dollar eucalyptus is an interloper from Australia and both it and bougainvillea are hillside fire hazards.
In this narrative, Alex is asked by Milo to consult on the case of murder victim, Donny/Adonis Klement — photographer and son of megabillionaire who married 6 times and had an “only child” with each wife (two children have now met early demises as did a couple of wives, including Donny’s, plus Pregnant Wife #6 is younger than all her step children). Alex and Milo zero in on the messy family as well as Donny’s “The Wishers Project” that brought strangers into Donny’s home. He would dress up homeless people “like full-sized marionettes” and coax them to talk about their fantasies. He has a portfolio of 8 befores and afters, all immediately suspects.
Delaware and Sturgis have a sobering encounter with an array of homeless people and frustrating interviews with family members. More people turn up dead, so it becomes increasingly important to find who killed Donny and why.
The great thing of Kellerman’s series is the deductive adventure he takes you through. Alex and Milo come up with theories, do the research, discover other avenues (or rabbit holes) to pursue, encounter bad things along the way, eat out a lot, but eventually always come to a satisfying solution. I usually find myself at the end of each novel amazed at how it all unfolds. As usual, “Unnatural History” did not disappoint and I can start the countdown to the 39th chapter. 5 stars!
Thank you to Random House Publishing/Ballantine and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): ALWAYS Since Milo has “startling” green eyes. Also a Klement brother has gray-green eyes and Officer Munro also has them.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Kellerman knows his native Southern California landscaping as well as the fact that silver-dollar eucalyptus is an interloper from Australia and both it and bougainvillea are hillside fire hazards.
December 4, 2022
It's hard to believe this is the 38th book in this series, which has been a favorite of mine from the beginning (as far as I know, I've read - and loved - every single one). In this one, psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware and his longtime friend and colleague Los Angeles Police Detective Milo Sturgis are older, wiser and perhaps a titch more cynical, but otherwise it's pretty much same old, same old - just the way I like it.
This begins with the encountering of the hysterical assistant to a wealthy photographer she's just found in bed, quite dead as a result of three bullets. His latest project involved homeless subjects - people he invited into his studio to dress up as their "dream" person. After he photographed them, he fed them, paid them rather handsomely and sent them back to the streets.
As part of the investigation, Alex and Milo must speak to the victim's family, which turns out to be a challenge. Mostly a loner, the dead guy has several half brothers and sisters with whom he has little contact (and even less in common); the father, it seems, is a serial bridegroom who abdicates both the marriages and the offspring, although he freely shares his wealth. Most of the investigation, though, focuses on the seedy side of town. Could it be that one of the subjects in the victim's photo project liked his or her brush with luxury and returned to grab a bigger share?
As always, the expansive description of characters and settings far surpasses the action, but then that's part of the appeal of the books, at least to me. Loyal readers will be happy with it, I think - certainly I am - and I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for once again allowing me to read and review a pre-release copy.
This begins with the encountering of the hysterical assistant to a wealthy photographer she's just found in bed, quite dead as a result of three bullets. His latest project involved homeless subjects - people he invited into his studio to dress up as their "dream" person. After he photographed them, he fed them, paid them rather handsomely and sent them back to the streets.
As part of the investigation, Alex and Milo must speak to the victim's family, which turns out to be a challenge. Mostly a loner, the dead guy has several half brothers and sisters with whom he has little contact (and even less in common); the father, it seems, is a serial bridegroom who abdicates both the marriages and the offspring, although he freely shares his wealth. Most of the investigation, though, focuses on the seedy side of town. Could it be that one of the subjects in the victim's photo project liked his or her brush with luxury and returned to grab a bigger share?
As always, the expansive description of characters and settings far surpasses the action, but then that's part of the appeal of the books, at least to me. Loyal readers will be happy with it, I think - certainly I am - and I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for once again allowing me to read and review a pre-release copy.
February 19, 2023
Unnatural History is the 38th book in the long-running Alex Delaware series by Jonathan Kellerman. I've long enjoyed this series and read/listened to most of the books. I was excited to see a new one released and eagerly launched into this police procedural. A psychologist myself, I liked the character of Alex Delaware and the mix of psychology and police work. This book delivers everything we have come to know and love about this series and would appeal to fans of the authors works. It can be read as standalone but I'd recommend you read from book 1.
March 11, 2023
I have little to say about Unnatural History. I found it utterly boring, forcing myself to read it, let alone finish it.
There isn't one character I cared about. I certainly am over all the scenery descriptions and clogged road descriptions. I don't care what Robin wants to eat or where she wants to eat it. I still like the dog, but evidently not enough to remember her name - Blanche?
I read my first 'Alex Delaware' book in 1995, always anxious for the next one after I caught up with the earlier books. I think that now I request them out of habit, much like the recent writing of Jonathan Kellerman.
Please, give Milo something juicy instead of plodding. Let Alex and he argue instead of their sycophantic agreement. Bring Rick back. Stop being boring.
2 Stars for Unnatural History. It's not as bad as The Murderer's Daughter, but it’s pretty darn close.
There isn't one character I cared about. I certainly am over all the scenery descriptions and clogged road descriptions. I don't care what Robin wants to eat or where she wants to eat it. I still like the dog, but evidently not enough to remember her name - Blanche?
I read my first 'Alex Delaware' book in 1995, always anxious for the next one after I caught up with the earlier books. I think that now I request them out of habit, much like the recent writing of Jonathan Kellerman.
Please, give Milo something juicy instead of plodding. Let Alex and he argue instead of their sycophantic agreement. Bring Rick back. Stop being boring.
2 Stars for Unnatural History. It's not as bad as The Murderer's Daughter, but it’s pretty darn close.
May 2, 2023
This was okay but not great. Might be time to stop with this series.
March 2, 2023
See review by PamG. Thorough and excellent review. I am a fan of the series.
February 20, 2023
In the beginning I could not read Jonathan Kellerman’s potboilers fast enough. Although always formulaic, they were exciting, held my interest, and left me wanting to know when the next one was being published. Now, eh? Yes, I get it that Milo is a homely, poorly dressed, slovenly, and overly focused yet brilliant detective. And who doesn’t see the smooth, handsome, guitar playing Dr. Alex Delaware as the alter ego of Jonathan Kellerman? At this point, I say, enough already! I had trouble finishing this book. It put me to sleep in all the wrong places. Come to think of it, it put me to sleep in all the right places, too! This judgement may be a bit harsh but what the heck? Kellerman, Sturgis, and Delaware have had a good, long run. You may recall that Jonathan’s wife Faye recently published her last book in the Decker/Lazarus series, IMHO a pretty smart decision on her part. Jonathan should follow his wife’s lead and put this long running franchise out of its misery.
February 26, 2023
Alex Delaware and Milo Sturgis are an incredible pair. This is book 38 and I have read and enjoyed every one. This one has some unexpected turns in it fir Alex but he handles them with his usual style.
March 29, 2023
I used to really enjoy Kellerman‘s Alex Delaware novels, but this one is a struggle to read.
I guess they decided that a popular author no longer needs an editor. Huge mistake! Kellerman seems obsessed with inventing “clever“ phrases that actually come across as awkward and frequently simply incorrect. And the characters he creates are increasingly two dimensional.
Unless his publisher sees fit to get a decent editor for his next novel, this will probably be the last Jonathan Kellerman novel I read.
I guess they decided that a popular author no longer needs an editor. Huge mistake! Kellerman seems obsessed with inventing “clever“ phrases that actually come across as awkward and frequently simply incorrect. And the characters he creates are increasingly two dimensional.
Unless his publisher sees fit to get a decent editor for his next novel, this will probably be the last Jonathan Kellerman novel I read.
February 12, 2023
Complex, menacing, and gritty!
In this thirty-eighth instalment in the Alex Delaware series, Unnatural History, we head back to Los Angeles where LAPD Lieutenant Milo Sturgis and psychologist Alex Delaware now find themselves immersed in a tricky case involving a murdered photographer who happens to be the youngest son of an enigmatic billionaire and whose latest project entitled the Wishers involved photographing homeless people dressed up as the person they always wished they could be.
The writing is tight and crisp. The characters are multilayered, vulnerable, and elusive. And the plot is a sinister tale full of twists, turns, deception, mayhem, suspicious personalities, revelations, homelessness, familial dysfunction, mental illness, and murder.
Overall, Unnatural History is an ominous, sophisticated, entertaining tale by Kellerman that has just the right amount of mystery, intrigue, and intensity to keep you engaged from start to finish and leave fans of this incredibly long-running series more than satisfied.
Thank you to Random House for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
In this thirty-eighth instalment in the Alex Delaware series, Unnatural History, we head back to Los Angeles where LAPD Lieutenant Milo Sturgis and psychologist Alex Delaware now find themselves immersed in a tricky case involving a murdered photographer who happens to be the youngest son of an enigmatic billionaire and whose latest project entitled the Wishers involved photographing homeless people dressed up as the person they always wished they could be.
The writing is tight and crisp. The characters are multilayered, vulnerable, and elusive. And the plot is a sinister tale full of twists, turns, deception, mayhem, suspicious personalities, revelations, homelessness, familial dysfunction, mental illness, and murder.
Overall, Unnatural History is an ominous, sophisticated, entertaining tale by Kellerman that has just the right amount of mystery, intrigue, and intensity to keep you engaged from start to finish and leave fans of this incredibly long-running series more than satisfied.
Thank you to Random House for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2023
3.50
The real attraction of these crime mysteries tend to be the vast array of supporting characters..
All well written and defined enough to be remembered..
Here that includes a reclusive billionaire with attachment issues..
A distraught photographer's assistant ..
A number of homeless people with a mix of issues..
The real attraction of these crime mysteries tend to be the vast array of supporting characters..
All well written and defined enough to be remembered..
Here that includes a reclusive billionaire with attachment issues..
A distraught photographer's assistant ..
A number of homeless people with a mix of issues..
March 2, 2023
You can't go wrong with a Jonathan Kellerman book. This is one of my favourite series.
February 9, 2023
Good solid Delaware mystery. Whenever Kellerman focuses on the relationship between Alex and Milo, I am happy with the results.
February 15, 2023
I admit up front that I have read all 38 books in the Alex Delaware series, and I have enjoyed each and every one of them. Alex Delaware is a clinical psychologist in private practice, but assists his friend Detective Milo Sturgis of the LAPD in solving cases. Their friendship has evolved over the course of this series, and the love and admiration they have for each other is tangible. Setting his novels in the Southern California area (mainly LA County), he is able to describe the idiosyncrasies and nuances of every day life with authenticity. His writing style is warm and welcoming, and his descriptives flow seemlessly and without being forced. It irks me to read books where the author feels he/she has to create a simile and it feels forced; not the case with these books. Our story begins with a photographer found shot 3 times in his home without evidence of entry or struggle. The victim is the youngest son of multibillionaire Victor Klement, who appears to make a concerted effort to keep himself out of the public's eye. Donny Klement was involved in a community project, taking photographs of homeless people dressed in costumes as their dream selves. Had one of these people been the one to pull the trigger? Or is there a link to the dysfunctional family based on greed? I love to read Alex and Milo banter back and forth reviewing the case and options. As might be expected, the main appeal of these books is the personal relationships, especially the one between Alex and Milo. The book takes you through the tent city scattered around Los Angeles looking for clues, and we are guests on the journey toward resolution. A good read.
February 19, 2023
I haven’t read a Jonathan Kellerman novel in a long time. I found this one to be get off to an extremely slow start. Then there were too many characters, at least in my opinion, along with too much repetition. I thought the overall story was good and I wanted to finish the book (which I did). However, I do think Kellerman could have cut many of the people and pages out.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 837 reviews