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Special Tracking Unit #1
Collecting the Dead
Magnus "Steps" Craig is part of the elite three-man Special Tracking Unit of the FBI. Called in on special cases where his skills are particularly needed, he works as a tracker. The media dubs him "The Human Bloodhound," since Steps is renowned for his incredible ability to find and follow trails over any surface better than anyone else. But there's a secret to his success. Steps has a special ability---a kind of synesthesia---where he can see the 'essence' of a person, something he calls 'shine,' on everything they've touched. His ability is known to only a few people---his father, the director of the FBI, and his partner, Special Agent Jimmy Donovan.When the remains of a murdered woman are found, Steps recognizes the shine left by the murderer from another crime scene with a physically similar victim. And he uncovers the signature at both scenes---the mark of a sad face. At the same time, another killer, one Steps has dubbed Leonardo and has been trying to track for over ten years, appears again, taunting Steps. But while Steps tries to find a clue that will lead him to Leonardo, the case of the Sad Face Killer heats up. The team uncovers eleven possible victims: missing women who fit the same pattern. Using his skill and the resources of the Bureau, it is a race against time to find the killer before it's too late.
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First published June 28, 2016
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About the author
Spencer Kope
11Ìýbooks222ÌýfollowersI started writing while serving in the Navy in the early 80s. I was a Russian linguist with the Naval Security Group at a time when the Cold War was still going strong. After my enlistment, I worked as an intelligence analyst and then a project manager for the Office of Naval Intelligence. You'd think this experience would have led me to write espionage novels, but it wasn't meant to be. Mind you I tried, but my heart wasn't in it.
Instead, I wrote horror stories and tales of a dystopian future. There were plenty of short stories, attempts at novels, and then novels. And while I've always had an incredible imagination, my early writing skills were pathetic.
It's been said that to become a master at anything, one need only practice that art for ten thousand hours. Well, it's taken three decades, but I've walked that road; I've done my ten thousand hours. I'm no longer afraid to share my work, and I find that my own words can make me smile, laugh, and even bring me to tears. Often, particularly when I'm supposed to be editing, I find myself being sucked into my own story.
I finally quit the intelligence business in 1999, and, beginning in 2004, started a new career as a crime analsyt. And while I still enjoy writing a variety of genres, particularly young adult, my career in law enforcement prompted me to write "Collecting the Dead," the first in a series about the fictional Special Tracking Unit.
Named by Kirkus Reviews as one of the Best Books of 2016, and nominated for a Barry Award for Best Thriller, "Collecting the Dead" launched the new series with a bang. Best of all, I love the characters and the premise of the series, and look forward to writing these books for years to come.
Instead, I wrote horror stories and tales of a dystopian future. There were plenty of short stories, attempts at novels, and then novels. And while I've always had an incredible imagination, my early writing skills were pathetic.
It's been said that to become a master at anything, one need only practice that art for ten thousand hours. Well, it's taken three decades, but I've walked that road; I've done my ten thousand hours. I'm no longer afraid to share my work, and I find that my own words can make me smile, laugh, and even bring me to tears. Often, particularly when I'm supposed to be editing, I find myself being sucked into my own story.
I finally quit the intelligence business in 1999, and, beginning in 2004, started a new career as a crime analsyt. And while I still enjoy writing a variety of genres, particularly young adult, my career in law enforcement prompted me to write "Collecting the Dead," the first in a series about the fictional Special Tracking Unit.
Named by Kirkus Reviews as one of the Best Books of 2016, and nominated for a Barry Award for Best Thriller, "Collecting the Dead" launched the new series with a bang. Best of all, I love the characters and the premise of the series, and look forward to writing these books for years to come.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 358 reviews
April 10, 2017
A quirky hero who chases the worst of serial killers and tracks these monsters down and makes Kope’s debut novel a winner.
Magnus “Steps� Craig can see people when they’re not there. Well, not really. What Steps sees is what he and his FBI partner, Jimmy Donovan, refer to as “shine.� It’s like a colorful, textured left-behind residue that envelops everyone Steps meets; and each person’s shine is totally his or her own. Steps and Jimmy are the heart of the Special Tracking Unit of the FBI, which looks for lost and abducted people and the criminals who take them. For years, Steps has searched unsuccessfully for a terrible killer he knows as Leonardo, who leaves his victims posed like DaVinci’s Vitruvian Man. But, so far, that killer’s remained at large.
Now Steps and Jimmy, working out of their Washington state headquarters, are chasing a serial murderer they’ve dubbed The Sad Face Killer—a particularly vicious man who abducts young women, keeps them captive for a while, then brutally kills them. Steps knows the murderer’s shine and those of his victims, and he and Jimmy follow him from state to state and county to county, trying to catch him before he slays his latest captive. Kope, a professional crime analyst, brings a refreshing authenticity to his work, then raises the stakes several notches by giving Steps, from whose point of view the story unravels, a unique, funny, and intriguing voice. Crammed with characters who will capture readers' attention and writing that leaves much of the field in the dust, Kope’s novel features a character who is different, talented, sympathetic, and gifted with great heart. He’s surrounded by both ultracompetent investigative staffers and the worst criminals humanity has to throw at him. The combination is a winning one.
I really enjoy a great serial killer dark thriller and this did a great job. Its heart throbbing suspense kept me turning the pages. This one is for the Serial Killer Lovers who look want a lot of suspense action and aren't afraid of these monsters in the dark.
Magnus “Steps� Craig can see people when they’re not there. Well, not really. What Steps sees is what he and his FBI partner, Jimmy Donovan, refer to as “shine.� It’s like a colorful, textured left-behind residue that envelops everyone Steps meets; and each person’s shine is totally his or her own. Steps and Jimmy are the heart of the Special Tracking Unit of the FBI, which looks for lost and abducted people and the criminals who take them. For years, Steps has searched unsuccessfully for a terrible killer he knows as Leonardo, who leaves his victims posed like DaVinci’s Vitruvian Man. But, so far, that killer’s remained at large.
Now Steps and Jimmy, working out of their Washington state headquarters, are chasing a serial murderer they’ve dubbed The Sad Face Killer—a particularly vicious man who abducts young women, keeps them captive for a while, then brutally kills them. Steps knows the murderer’s shine and those of his victims, and he and Jimmy follow him from state to state and county to county, trying to catch him before he slays his latest captive. Kope, a professional crime analyst, brings a refreshing authenticity to his work, then raises the stakes several notches by giving Steps, from whose point of view the story unravels, a unique, funny, and intriguing voice. Crammed with characters who will capture readers' attention and writing that leaves much of the field in the dust, Kope’s novel features a character who is different, talented, sympathetic, and gifted with great heart. He’s surrounded by both ultracompetent investigative staffers and the worst criminals humanity has to throw at him. The combination is a winning one.
I really enjoy a great serial killer dark thriller and this did a great job. Its heart throbbing suspense kept me turning the pages. This one is for the Serial Killer Lovers who look want a lot of suspense action and aren't afraid of these monsters in the dark.
May 21, 2016
Once in a while a book comes along so good that it's nearly impossible to describe without giving the impression that I must be one of the author's devoted relatives. This one is just that, and no, I'm not. In fact, when I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review, I'd never heard of the guy before. This is his debut novel, and from beginning to end, it absolutely blew my socks off.
For openers, I love the main character, Magnus "Steps" Craig. He's smart, funny, a few degrees off center and, because of his uncanny ability to follow trails and turn up clues no one else can, one of three experts on the FBI's Special Tracking Unit. But only he, his partner Special Agent Jimmy Donovan, his father, the head of the FBI and readers know of his very special talent: he's able to visualize what he calls "shine" - sort of like an aura - on everything other people touch. Shine comes in glowing colors and he sees it everywhere - to the point that he must wear special eyeglasses when he doesn't want to be tormented by his nonstop visions.
This time, the team is called in when the remains of a murdered woman are found; immediately, Steps sees the killer's shine and realizes it is the same as he saw at another unsolved murder a couple of years earlier and 200 miles away. He also discovers a mark that prompts investigators to dub the killer Sad Face - a discovery which, when other bodies turn up (all told, nearly a dozen in three states over five years) proves that a serial killer is at work. The main story line follows that investigation to the end (which of course I won't reveal).
At the same time, Steps is fighting other demons from his past; specifically, a killer he calls Leonardo, whom he began to track some 10 years ago. Now, Leonardo's shine turns up once again, weighing heavily on Steps's mind as he tries his best to focus on and solve the case at hand before another victim is unearthed.
The plot is intriguing and well thought out with plenty of action and, at times, gory detail; when I had to stop reading to do something else, I was annoyed that I couldn't put the world aside and keep going. But what I loved most is the awesome writing. Not everything centers on solving the murders; there are recollections of past events, details on the lives of other characters and a lot more - all laid out so interestingly that at no time did my usually impatient self say, "Hey, man, get on with the story." It is also intricate, eloquent, witty and insightful, to-wit:
"The reason a person picks up a book in the first place is a story unto itself. One person picks up Mein Kampf because he's an anti-Semite, another because he wants to learn the origin of monsters."
There's no question that this book, and this character, will stick with me for some time to come. The ending does hint of the likelihood that is the first of a series, and if that's the case, I say bring it on - the sooner the better. I can't wait to see this guy and his team in action again.
Now you'll have to excuse me while I go find my socks - my toes are chilled to the bone.
For openers, I love the main character, Magnus "Steps" Craig. He's smart, funny, a few degrees off center and, because of his uncanny ability to follow trails and turn up clues no one else can, one of three experts on the FBI's Special Tracking Unit. But only he, his partner Special Agent Jimmy Donovan, his father, the head of the FBI and readers know of his very special talent: he's able to visualize what he calls "shine" - sort of like an aura - on everything other people touch. Shine comes in glowing colors and he sees it everywhere - to the point that he must wear special eyeglasses when he doesn't want to be tormented by his nonstop visions.
This time, the team is called in when the remains of a murdered woman are found; immediately, Steps sees the killer's shine and realizes it is the same as he saw at another unsolved murder a couple of years earlier and 200 miles away. He also discovers a mark that prompts investigators to dub the killer Sad Face - a discovery which, when other bodies turn up (all told, nearly a dozen in three states over five years) proves that a serial killer is at work. The main story line follows that investigation to the end (which of course I won't reveal).
At the same time, Steps is fighting other demons from his past; specifically, a killer he calls Leonardo, whom he began to track some 10 years ago. Now, Leonardo's shine turns up once again, weighing heavily on Steps's mind as he tries his best to focus on and solve the case at hand before another victim is unearthed.
The plot is intriguing and well thought out with plenty of action and, at times, gory detail; when I had to stop reading to do something else, I was annoyed that I couldn't put the world aside and keep going. But what I loved most is the awesome writing. Not everything centers on solving the murders; there are recollections of past events, details on the lives of other characters and a lot more - all laid out so interestingly that at no time did my usually impatient self say, "Hey, man, get on with the story." It is also intricate, eloquent, witty and insightful, to-wit:
"The reason a person picks up a book in the first place is a story unto itself. One person picks up Mein Kampf because he's an anti-Semite, another because he wants to learn the origin of monsters."
There's no question that this book, and this character, will stick with me for some time to come. The ending does hint of the likelihood that is the first of a series, and if that's the case, I say bring it on - the sooner the better. I can't wait to see this guy and his team in action again.
Now you'll have to excuse me while I go find my socks - my toes are chilled to the bone.
July 17, 2020
I enjoy my police procedurals and crime thriller novels, but sometimes things can get quite repetitive. When I stumbled upon this new series by Spencer Kope, the unique premise piqued my interest and I knew I’d have to give it a try. Tackling crime fighting from the angle of a tracker seemed like a refreshing perspective in a genre that is supersaturated and I was not disappointed with Kope’s efforts. Magnus “Steps� Craig belongs to the FBI’s Special Tacking Unit (STU), a small collection of individuals tasked with locating missing persons, which can include discovering bodies in the most macabre situations. What sets Steps apart from others is a unique skill he has, called ‘shine�, which allows him to see the presence of someone through an aura that presents itself in detailed colours and other visual disturbances. This shine is known to only three other people and Steps is hoping to keep it that way. After the STU is called out on a few cases, Steps has an odd feeling about the shine given off by a body that he helps locate. It is only when he flips through his notes that he discovers it is exactly like another shine he saw a few months ago, that of a potential killer. Sifting through a larger list, Steps discovers that he may have stumbled upon a serial killer and needs to tie things together for the authorities. The killings span numerous states and almost a dozen counties, leaving a killer under the radar. While working with his partner, Special Agent Jimmy Donovan, Steps finds the presence of the killer’s shine on a vehicle window and the position of the face helps create the moniker, the Sad Face Killer. The race is on to locate a killer as well as any possible future victims. When a careless mistake leaves Steps in possession of a potential kill list, the hunt is on to save as many women as possible before they, too, are kidnapped and brutally killed. Locating this man is only the first phase for Steps, as the victims are still out there, locked away with no one to help them. A wonderful debut by Spencer Kope that will pull the reader into the middle of the story with an ending the reader will not soon forget, teeing things up for the next instalment. Recommended to those who love a good procedural, as well as the reader who finds enjoyment in unique approaches to crime thrillers.
I find the best books in this genre stick out because of the way they approach crime fighting. Perhaps it is a cop with a penchant for breaking rules, or a diver who hunts for underwater clues, or even a sketch artist whose forensic work helps breath life into a long forgotten victim. Magnus ‘Steps� Craig offers another new perspective for me through his abilities. Steps is at the top of his game and known throughout the FBI, though his shine is still a secret he prefers to hold onto for the time being. Tied into an accident in his youth, Steps uses this ability for good, but it has some seriously troubling effects on his everyday life, as is shown throughout this book. Steps works with what he has and tries to find the best in all situations. There is much backstory presented here, on which the reader can feast while also seeing some great character development that will be useful as the series progresses. I have some lingering questions about how Steps will present himself, both personally and at work, hoping that the next book offers me a few insights. Other characters who appear throughout help offer some added depth to the story. I can only hope a few will be back for future novels, as the banter and differing characteristics add to the story in ways I have not seen for a long time. The story, while not entirely unique, is quite captivating because of the approach, as are the numerous twists Kope embeds throughout the story. With a great deal of humour, educational moments, and great plot development, this book makes its mark and will likely leave the reader wanting to explore more. Kope is able to use all the tools to his advantage and stands out amongst many of the other authors I have read of late. A great debut novel, this is sure to grow into a wonderful series, given time and patience by readers. I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book and hope it is as exciting, while being filled with just as much development.
Kudos, Mr. Kope, for a great start! You have me very interested and I am eager to see where else Steps will go in the coming books.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: /group/show/...
I find the best books in this genre stick out because of the way they approach crime fighting. Perhaps it is a cop with a penchant for breaking rules, or a diver who hunts for underwater clues, or even a sketch artist whose forensic work helps breath life into a long forgotten victim. Magnus ‘Steps� Craig offers another new perspective for me through his abilities. Steps is at the top of his game and known throughout the FBI, though his shine is still a secret he prefers to hold onto for the time being. Tied into an accident in his youth, Steps uses this ability for good, but it has some seriously troubling effects on his everyday life, as is shown throughout this book. Steps works with what he has and tries to find the best in all situations. There is much backstory presented here, on which the reader can feast while also seeing some great character development that will be useful as the series progresses. I have some lingering questions about how Steps will present himself, both personally and at work, hoping that the next book offers me a few insights. Other characters who appear throughout help offer some added depth to the story. I can only hope a few will be back for future novels, as the banter and differing characteristics add to the story in ways I have not seen for a long time. The story, while not entirely unique, is quite captivating because of the approach, as are the numerous twists Kope embeds throughout the story. With a great deal of humour, educational moments, and great plot development, this book makes its mark and will likely leave the reader wanting to explore more. Kope is able to use all the tools to his advantage and stands out amongst many of the other authors I have read of late. A great debut novel, this is sure to grow into a wonderful series, given time and patience by readers. I cannot wait to get my hands on the second book and hope it is as exciting, while being filled with just as much development.
Kudos, Mr. Kope, for a great start! You have me very interested and I am eager to see where else Steps will go in the coming books.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: /group/show/...
June 15, 2016
Agent Magnus Craig has been with the FBI Special Tracking Unit for 5 years. They call him the Human Bloodhound, although it’s not smells that he follows. Only three people know his secret � he has a gift (or curse depending on how you look at it). He sees steps, footsteps, like bunches of light that only he can see. He has to pretend whenever he’s on a case in order to preserve his secret. He is better known as Steps.
But he’s getting weary of finding usually murdered bodies. He keeps two scrapbooks. One is black, pictures of those victims he couldn’t save. The other is white, pictures of the very few he has managed to find alive .. lost joggers, mountain climbers, children who have wandered away.
Steps and his partner, FBI Special Agent Jimmy Donovan, are called to hunt down a serial killer they call The Sad Face Killer. Somewhere in the vicinity or on the body of the victim is a drawing of a sad face. This killer is smart, and he’s determined. All his victims are similar � young women with brown hair.
They find what they think are his first 5 victims � and then his MO changes. Something has happened and Steps and Jimmy are hoping this may be the thread they’ve been looking for.
It gets a little more suspenseful as they close in on their suspect. Much more suspenseful when they find his burial field. There are still women missing, one of whom is still alive. But will they reach her in time?
I love the relationship between Steps and Jimmy. They are so different, yet they are closer than brothers. I love the humor that’s interwoven throughout this book, such as …�.
*Jimmy and I like to spin around in the chairs as fast as we can to see who gets sick first. We’re professionals.
*I went through training so I could carry a Taser, thinking it would be cool to have one if I ever needed it. No one told me that to complete the course I had to get shot by a Taser. When they asked me if I wanted firearms training I said, “Hell, no�
*He’s like all the PE teachers I’ve ever had rolled up into one and sprinkled with Nazi dust
Steps is a new kind of FBI Agent. Besides his gift, he feels so deeply about the victims. He loses sleep over it, has nightmares that don’t quit. Both he and Jimmy are quite likable.
The ending is full of tension � and there’s just a little room left for another book to follow � if the author chooses. I’m hoping he will. I think this would be an exciting new series.
Many thanks to the author / St. Martin’s Press � Minotaur Books / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
But he’s getting weary of finding usually murdered bodies. He keeps two scrapbooks. One is black, pictures of those victims he couldn’t save. The other is white, pictures of the very few he has managed to find alive .. lost joggers, mountain climbers, children who have wandered away.
Steps and his partner, FBI Special Agent Jimmy Donovan, are called to hunt down a serial killer they call The Sad Face Killer. Somewhere in the vicinity or on the body of the victim is a drawing of a sad face. This killer is smart, and he’s determined. All his victims are similar � young women with brown hair.
They find what they think are his first 5 victims � and then his MO changes. Something has happened and Steps and Jimmy are hoping this may be the thread they’ve been looking for.
It gets a little more suspenseful as they close in on their suspect. Much more suspenseful when they find his burial field. There are still women missing, one of whom is still alive. But will they reach her in time?
I love the relationship between Steps and Jimmy. They are so different, yet they are closer than brothers. I love the humor that’s interwoven throughout this book, such as …�.
*Jimmy and I like to spin around in the chairs as fast as we can to see who gets sick first. We’re professionals.
*I went through training so I could carry a Taser, thinking it would be cool to have one if I ever needed it. No one told me that to complete the course I had to get shot by a Taser. When they asked me if I wanted firearms training I said, “Hell, no�
*He’s like all the PE teachers I’ve ever had rolled up into one and sprinkled with Nazi dust
Steps is a new kind of FBI Agent. Besides his gift, he feels so deeply about the victims. He loses sleep over it, has nightmares that don’t quit. Both he and Jimmy are quite likable.
The ending is full of tension � and there’s just a little room left for another book to follow � if the author chooses. I’m hoping he will. I think this would be an exciting new series.
Many thanks to the author / St. Martin’s Press � Minotaur Books / NetGalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
May 31, 2016
I received an e-ARC of this novel through NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books.
I am going to try so very hard not to gush over this book because I don't like to read gushing reviews and I'm sure you don't either. So, can I get right to the point and say this book was amazing? A debut novel and it was this well written? with such a well developed special feature? and it was so believable that I positively couldn't stop reading until it was all done? Yes, yes, and yes and there, I just gushed - again. Drat!
Sometimes having a "gift" can be a blessing or a curse. Most often it is a combination of both. "Steps" Craig can see the shine emanating from each person. Some might call it an aura but Steps calls it shine because it stays behind on every object a person touches. The color combinations are totally original to each individual so Steps lives in a world with so much color it almost makes him ill. Thankfully early in his youth he discovered that wearing glasses with crystal lenses shuts out the color long enough for him to control the headaches. The usefulness of this gift is incredibly valuable to the FBI, so much so that an entire unit was established, the Special Tracking Unit, so Steps can go to crime scenes all over the country to pick out the shine left by the killer. He can then uncover clues completely unseen by other investigators. Steps relates what he sees to his partner of five years, FBI Special Agent Jimmy Donovan who has developed some serious tracking and profiling skills and then they have to find a way to report how they come upon these clues which every other law enforcement team member missed. Not always an easy task. Now Steps is finding a shine he's seen before and the race is on to catch a very smart serial killer.
So, the paranormal aspect of this novel is not just new to me, it is also realistically done to the extent that it seemed completely natural as I was reading the book. The gift doesn't make life easy for the STU team, in fact the only member of the team who knows about what Steps can see is Jimmy so they even have to spend time covering up his ability from their own support group. The only thing that was missing from this debut was how the Director of the FBI became aware of what Steps can do. I am looking forward, Mr. Kope, to finding out all about that in the next book. Or even in book three.....or four. I sincerely hope you are spending all your time writing; vacations are highly overrated.
I am going to try so very hard not to gush over this book because I don't like to read gushing reviews and I'm sure you don't either. So, can I get right to the point and say this book was amazing? A debut novel and it was this well written? with such a well developed special feature? and it was so believable that I positively couldn't stop reading until it was all done? Yes, yes, and yes and there, I just gushed - again. Drat!
Sometimes having a "gift" can be a blessing or a curse. Most often it is a combination of both. "Steps" Craig can see the shine emanating from each person. Some might call it an aura but Steps calls it shine because it stays behind on every object a person touches. The color combinations are totally original to each individual so Steps lives in a world with so much color it almost makes him ill. Thankfully early in his youth he discovered that wearing glasses with crystal lenses shuts out the color long enough for him to control the headaches. The usefulness of this gift is incredibly valuable to the FBI, so much so that an entire unit was established, the Special Tracking Unit, so Steps can go to crime scenes all over the country to pick out the shine left by the killer. He can then uncover clues completely unseen by other investigators. Steps relates what he sees to his partner of five years, FBI Special Agent Jimmy Donovan who has developed some serious tracking and profiling skills and then they have to find a way to report how they come upon these clues which every other law enforcement team member missed. Not always an easy task. Now Steps is finding a shine he's seen before and the race is on to catch a very smart serial killer.
So, the paranormal aspect of this novel is not just new to me, it is also realistically done to the extent that it seemed completely natural as I was reading the book. The gift doesn't make life easy for the STU team, in fact the only member of the team who knows about what Steps can see is Jimmy so they even have to spend time covering up his ability from their own support group. The only thing that was missing from this debut was how the Director of the FBI became aware of what Steps can do. I am looking forward, Mr. Kope, to finding out all about that in the next book. Or even in book three.....or four. I sincerely hope you are spending all your time writing; vacations are highly overrated.
August 29, 2020
Reread because I like to laugh at my ridiculous TBR sometimes and also because - this book is awesome.
Second time around, I wasn't as blown away by the new amazingness of it, so I had time to find and luxuriate in passages like this:
The bag is a mound of supple leather the color of chocolate. It yawns open at the top to reveal a consuming mouth that devours anything placed inside: clothes, books, notebooks, cameras, dirty socks, shaving cream and the other accoutrements that accompany frequent flights and unpredictable stays.
A sturdy leather flap folds over the bag's top - a single massive lip to close the mouth. Three leather straps ending in brushed-nickel buckles serve to bind the mouth shut.
The mouth never speaks.
Though a thousand tales are folded into its creases and pressed into its chocolate, the bag remains silent.
It's that blend of phenomenal writing and truly authentic detection (maybe minus the shine, but who knows, after all?) that make this a great book, and one with staying power.
---
Let me just begin this review by saying: There is nothing I hate more than finding a new favourite series when the first book has only just come out! I am much happier being late to the party, only to spend the next couple of weeks/months immersed in my new favourite universe, playing catchup.
With that out of the way....I loved this book. There were moments where Steps reminded me of Odd Thomas, from the series by Dean Koontz. But only moments - and the book was all the stronger for it. Steps' quirks are never thrust in the reader's face to emphasize just how very different he is - instead they provide dimension and depth to his character that only makes him appeal more. He has his flaws, and acknowledges most of them.
The supporting cast is also strong - Jimmy and Diane in particular. The rest were slightly underused, but it would have been a crowded book if they weren't. I look forward to seeing them as the series continues.
The mystery itself is well-executed and intriguing. The tension ratchets just high enough, and the conclusion (while I won't give it away) is satisfying, while definitely leaving open the loose ends necessary for the next books.
Definitely a series I'll be returning to, and one I'm very excited to have found!
Second time around, I wasn't as blown away by the new amazingness of it, so I had time to find and luxuriate in passages like this:
The bag is a mound of supple leather the color of chocolate. It yawns open at the top to reveal a consuming mouth that devours anything placed inside: clothes, books, notebooks, cameras, dirty socks, shaving cream and the other accoutrements that accompany frequent flights and unpredictable stays.
A sturdy leather flap folds over the bag's top - a single massive lip to close the mouth. Three leather straps ending in brushed-nickel buckles serve to bind the mouth shut.
The mouth never speaks.
Though a thousand tales are folded into its creases and pressed into its chocolate, the bag remains silent.
It's that blend of phenomenal writing and truly authentic detection (maybe minus the shine, but who knows, after all?) that make this a great book, and one with staying power.
---
Let me just begin this review by saying: There is nothing I hate more than finding a new favourite series when the first book has only just come out! I am much happier being late to the party, only to spend the next couple of weeks/months immersed in my new favourite universe, playing catchup.
With that out of the way....I loved this book. There were moments where Steps reminded me of Odd Thomas, from the series by Dean Koontz. But only moments - and the book was all the stronger for it. Steps' quirks are never thrust in the reader's face to emphasize just how very different he is - instead they provide dimension and depth to his character that only makes him appeal more. He has his flaws, and acknowledges most of them.
The supporting cast is also strong - Jimmy and Diane in particular. The rest were slightly underused, but it would have been a crowded book if they weren't. I look forward to seeing them as the series continues.
The mystery itself is well-executed and intriguing. The tension ratchets just high enough, and the conclusion (while I won't give it away) is satisfying, while definitely leaving open the loose ends necessary for the next books.
Definitely a series I'll be returning to, and one I'm very excited to have found!
September 6, 2016
4.5 stars
Magnus Craig, aka Steps, is a man with a gift or a curse, depending on how you look at it and most times he isn't sure himself. Since surviving a traumatic event in his childhood, Steps has had the ability to see "shine". It's the life essence we all have, individualized for each person, and we leave it behind on everything we touch. Steps covertly uses his ability to see shine in his role with the FBI's Special Tracking Unit, helping to find missing persons or track down serial killers.
I really enjoyed this book. Steps makes for an endearing main character with a good sense of humor and positive relationships with his family and co-workers. That in itself is practically a novelty nowadays. The first person narrative and clutter free writing style kept the story moving forward at a steady pace. I'm definitely in for more cases with Steps.
Magnus Craig, aka Steps, is a man with a gift or a curse, depending on how you look at it and most times he isn't sure himself. Since surviving a traumatic event in his childhood, Steps has had the ability to see "shine". It's the life essence we all have, individualized for each person, and we leave it behind on everything we touch. Steps covertly uses his ability to see shine in his role with the FBI's Special Tracking Unit, helping to find missing persons or track down serial killers.
I really enjoyed this book. Steps makes for an endearing main character with a good sense of humor and positive relationships with his family and co-workers. That in itself is practically a novelty nowadays. The first person narrative and clutter free writing style kept the story moving forward at a steady pace. I'm definitely in for more cases with Steps.
October 20, 2016
I'm going to add yet another positive review for this book.
Magnus "Steps" Crais and his partner Jimmy Donovan lead the Special Tracing Unit in the FBI. They go after serial killers. One of the things that is different in this novel is that "Steps" has a special ability ---where he can see the 'essence' of a person, something he calls 'shine,' on everything they've touched. (Only 3 people know of his ability - His partner Jimmy , his dad and the head of the FBI in his unit. )
Having said that - I was a little bit hesitant picking up this book- Although the "shine" component makes the book feel a little like a paranormal mystery, it doesn't have any of what I call the "woo woo" factor. There are no ghosts and Steps does not hear from the victims or the killer. He just sees the traces of their "shine" left behind where they walked or came in contact with another surface. So don't avoid this book thinking it will be about spirits and such. Other than the ability to see the "shine" this is like any other mystery where the protagonist is tracking a killer
You will fall in love with Steps character. He is funny, witty, sarcastic and smart. Step names his home, his car and even the private plane that they travel in. His humor reminds me of Harlan Coban's Myron Bolitar. Besides Step and his partner Jimmy , you have Diane, who works "magic" in the office - (very much like Garcia in Criminal Minds) the 2 private pilots , and a newspaper reporter who is a possible love interest.
This story is a fun ride of mystery & suspense, with a dusting of "supernatural" for a lack of a better word. Looking forward to the next in the series!
Magnus "Steps" Crais and his partner Jimmy Donovan lead the Special Tracing Unit in the FBI. They go after serial killers. One of the things that is different in this novel is that "Steps" has a special ability ---where he can see the 'essence' of a person, something he calls 'shine,' on everything they've touched. (Only 3 people know of his ability - His partner Jimmy , his dad and the head of the FBI in his unit. )
Having said that - I was a little bit hesitant picking up this book- Although the "shine" component makes the book feel a little like a paranormal mystery, it doesn't have any of what I call the "woo woo" factor. There are no ghosts and Steps does not hear from the victims or the killer. He just sees the traces of their "shine" left behind where they walked or came in contact with another surface. So don't avoid this book thinking it will be about spirits and such. Other than the ability to see the "shine" this is like any other mystery where the protagonist is tracking a killer
You will fall in love with Steps character. He is funny, witty, sarcastic and smart. Step names his home, his car and even the private plane that they travel in. His humor reminds me of Harlan Coban's Myron Bolitar. Besides Step and his partner Jimmy , you have Diane, who works "magic" in the office - (very much like Garcia in Criminal Minds) the 2 private pilots , and a newspaper reporter who is a possible love interest.
This story is a fun ride of mystery & suspense, with a dusting of "supernatural" for a lack of a better word. Looking forward to the next in the series!
August 31, 2018
One of the best things about the Bookstagram community is meeting people who just get you, the exchanging/gifting of books and having a vast amount of people you can discuss your reading passion with. For those reading this, if you don't know what this community is, get on Instagram and search #Bookstagram and come on in!! Thanks so much to Danielle for sending me this copy! Another good fit - I'm not surprised at all! 😉
Steps is a special character and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know him. Having to hide his special ability makes for a lonely life... though I'm not sure why he's THAT set on it keeping it such a secret - at least from more of his lovables. I mean, I get it... but I just don't want him to have this struggle. He does a good job in covering his tracks (some pun intended) by pretending to see clues other than what he actually sees. People know he's special - they just don't realize HOW special.
I'll be honest, I enjoyed the dialogue and interactions between the characters more than I did the actual case of the Sad Faced Killer. The banter is fantastic and I found myself giggling through various scenes. Not to take away from the case itself. I felt at times this was a humorous thriller that brushed the line of darkness. A solid opening and introduction to the Special Tracking Unit series. Very happy to be introduced to this series.
Steps is a special character and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know him. Having to hide his special ability makes for a lonely life... though I'm not sure why he's THAT set on it keeping it such a secret - at least from more of his lovables. I mean, I get it... but I just don't want him to have this struggle. He does a good job in covering his tracks (some pun intended) by pretending to see clues other than what he actually sees. People know he's special - they just don't realize HOW special.
I'll be honest, I enjoyed the dialogue and interactions between the characters more than I did the actual case of the Sad Faced Killer. The banter is fantastic and I found myself giggling through various scenes. Not to take away from the case itself. I felt at times this was a humorous thriller that brushed the line of darkness. A solid opening and introduction to the Special Tracking Unit series. Very happy to be introduced to this series.
October 25, 2018
COLLECTING THE DEAD
(Special Tracking Unit: #1)
Written by Spencer Kope
2016; Minotaur Books (320 Pages)
Genre: series, fiction, mystery, suspense, FBI
RATING: 4 1/2 STARS
I was hooked from page one! I could not flip the pages fast enough on my eReader. I had the same sort of reaction when I read David Baldacci's Amos Decker series. Right off the main character is not like other heroes which I am always a sucker for.
The main character in this book is Magnus "Steps" Craig. He is always called Steps by everyone, and as Jimmy, his FBI partner, says, "Let him tell you the story behind Steps." Steps is a human tracker, and works with Jimmy in the Special Tracking Unit of the FBI. Steps is dubbed the "human bloodhound" because of his uncanny ability to find the victim or killer. Only three people know his secret - his father, Jimmy and the Director of the FBI - he is can trace shine. Shine is the essence that people leave on things they touch and only Steps can see. While he continues to chase the serial killer he has named Leonardo, (due to the way he poses his victims) another case of the Sad Face killer is heating up. Diane, their office agent, has linked eleven victims to the Sad Face killer due to his MO and they must figure out who is next to catch him.
Steps is like Decker in that he can be blunt and literal sometimes but also be like Myron Bolitar (Harlan Coben) with his sarcasm. The fact he has to live with seeing people's shine he deals with guilt of not always being able to save people. He's a lot like Decker who has to deal with his perfect memory. Steps and his FBI partner, Agent Jimmy Donovan are are also friends as they spend time together outside of work. He is like an uncle to Jimmy's son and that side of him is interesting as it balances his life. He also has a love interest with a journalist who keeps him on his toes. While the cases are brutal there is a great balance of humour that keeps everyone, including the reader, sane. If you like suspense I HIGHLY recommend this novel! And, I really hope this is just the beginning of a series!
***I received an eARC from NETGALLEY***
(Special Tracking Unit: #1)
Written by Spencer Kope
2016; Minotaur Books (320 Pages)
Genre: series, fiction, mystery, suspense, FBI
RATING: 4 1/2 STARS
I was hooked from page one! I could not flip the pages fast enough on my eReader. I had the same sort of reaction when I read David Baldacci's Amos Decker series. Right off the main character is not like other heroes which I am always a sucker for.
The main character in this book is Magnus "Steps" Craig. He is always called Steps by everyone, and as Jimmy, his FBI partner, says, "Let him tell you the story behind Steps." Steps is a human tracker, and works with Jimmy in the Special Tracking Unit of the FBI. Steps is dubbed the "human bloodhound" because of his uncanny ability to find the victim or killer. Only three people know his secret - his father, Jimmy and the Director of the FBI - he is can trace shine. Shine is the essence that people leave on things they touch and only Steps can see. While he continues to chase the serial killer he has named Leonardo, (due to the way he poses his victims) another case of the Sad Face killer is heating up. Diane, their office agent, has linked eleven victims to the Sad Face killer due to his MO and they must figure out who is next to catch him.
Steps is like Decker in that he can be blunt and literal sometimes but also be like Myron Bolitar (Harlan Coben) with his sarcasm. The fact he has to live with seeing people's shine he deals with guilt of not always being able to save people. He's a lot like Decker who has to deal with his perfect memory. Steps and his FBI partner, Agent Jimmy Donovan are are also friends as they spend time together outside of work. He is like an uncle to Jimmy's son and that side of him is interesting as it balances his life. He also has a love interest with a journalist who keeps him on his toes. While the cases are brutal there is a great balance of humour that keeps everyone, including the reader, sane. If you like suspense I HIGHLY recommend this novel! And, I really hope this is just the beginning of a series!
***I received an eARC from NETGALLEY***
July 12, 2016
Original plot premise of an FBI tracker with secret super powers. Magnus "Steps" Craig has the ability to see the invisible essence of people inhabiting crime scenes by the vivid colors they emit and helps his team track victims and perpetrators, specifically a serial killer nicknamed "Sad Face". Unfortunately, "Steps" frequently veers off the trail with a myriad of tangential observations and anecdotes totally unrelated to driving the plot. Too many such detours in my view, resulted in a sluggishly paced story that ties together like a soup sandwich. After reading three quarters of the book I started to root for the serial killer! Just kidding of course but sharper editing could have crafted a tighter, more disciplined thriller.
April 25, 2016
FBI Tracker Magnus "Steps" Craig and his team find people or bodies that would otherwise not be found due to Steps' unique ability to see the aura people leave behind that he developed after a childhood incident. Not many people know about his talent and he tries hard to keep it that way so as not to draw attention to the work he and his team do. The first part of the book is a little wordy with details and descriptions but keep reading because the last half of the book is the reward. Steps has found the trail of what turns out to be a serial killer and the finally find him. But there is one serial killer that keeps haunting him and that story is always in the background. Great read. I would like to see more stories about this character. I would like to thank the publisher and Net Galley for the chance to read this ARC.
October 13, 2024
This book was so well done. A guy has a supernatural ability to see “shine� � people’s distinct aura on things they’ve touched. He uses this ability as a tracker for the FBI. What makes this different is that he knows who the killer is once he sees them, so no surprise “It was Bob all along!� twists for this story.
The characters are likable, there is lots of dry humor, and the plot is well constructed. It doesn’t get overly graphic or preachy. The writing is above average; excellent pacing and editing. It sets up potential sequels but is still a self-contained story.
I can nitpick a couple things: Bleach doesn’t destroy DNA. It can cut DNA strands but will not destroy it. And real crime scene and death industry employees do not put menthol or peppermint on their noses. This is because those things open up the nasal passages, meaning you will be smelling decomp even longer once you leave the scene.
Language: Mild
Sexual Content: evidence of sexual violence mentioned
Violence/Gore: serial killer violence; somewhat disturbing though not very graphic (details below)
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
The characters are likable, there is lots of dry humor, and the plot is well constructed. It doesn’t get overly graphic or preachy. The writing is above average; excellent pacing and editing. It sets up potential sequels but is still a self-contained story.
I can nitpick a couple things: Bleach doesn’t destroy DNA. It can cut DNA strands but will not destroy it. And real crime scene and death industry employees do not put menthol or peppermint on their noses. This is because those things open up the nasal passages, meaning you will be smelling decomp even longer once you leave the scene.
Language: Mild
Sexual Content: evidence of sexual violence mentioned
Violence/Gore: serial killer violence; somewhat disturbing though not very graphic (details below)
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
June 25, 2022
2.5 STARS—fascinating premise, technically well written, but author digresses ad nauseum on every random topic under the sun, bringing the story to a screeching halt, again and again.
DNF, Skipped to the end at 50%.
DNF, Skipped to the end at 50%.
May 9, 2018
Idk where to start! First of all, Steps is a very unique character with a special gift that you can’t imagine. His humor reminds me of RBP Spencer books (which is a hard go compliment). Truly unique in the storyline with lovable characters makes for a very enjoyable read. An intense ending that left me wanting more & thankfully I already have the next book!
Many thanks to Minotaur for this copy!
Many thanks to Minotaur for this copy!
April 14, 2018
"We save the ones we can."
UPDATE: I just re-read this book because the second book in the series is coming out on April 17 WHISPERS OF THE DEAD and I wanted to re-familiarize myself with this first book. It was just as good the second time around. I'm now off to read the ARC of the second book.
I love discovering authors I haven't read before that just blow my socks off. Author Spencer Kope is now on my must-read list.
COLLECTING THE DEAD is the full package - great beginning, middle, and "killer" ending. It is a serial killer thriller with a big dash of the paranormal and the lead character Magnus "Steps" Craig was everything I could wish for.
Steps and his partner Special Agent Jimmy Donovan are in a special section of the FBI developed just for them - the FBIs Special Tracking Unit, based out of Bellingham, Washington. They travel all over the country, though, tracking down serial killers and the occasional lost hiker.
Because Steps has a special talent - he's able to see where people have been - where they've stepped, what they've touched - because everyone has their own unique aura, or "shine", that only Steps can see.
This story was exciting, well-written, had great character development, had funny, quirky spots, and then some that were heartbreaking.
The way the book ended leads me to believe that this is the first book in a new outstanding series. I am already looking forward to book two.
I received this book from Minotaur Books in exchange for my unbiased review.
UPDATE: I just re-read this book because the second book in the series is coming out on April 17 WHISPERS OF THE DEAD and I wanted to re-familiarize myself with this first book. It was just as good the second time around. I'm now off to read the ARC of the second book.
I love discovering authors I haven't read before that just blow my socks off. Author Spencer Kope is now on my must-read list.
COLLECTING THE DEAD is the full package - great beginning, middle, and "killer" ending. It is a serial killer thriller with a big dash of the paranormal and the lead character Magnus "Steps" Craig was everything I could wish for.
Steps and his partner Special Agent Jimmy Donovan are in a special section of the FBI developed just for them - the FBIs Special Tracking Unit, based out of Bellingham, Washington. They travel all over the country, though, tracking down serial killers and the occasional lost hiker.
Because Steps has a special talent - he's able to see where people have been - where they've stepped, what they've touched - because everyone has their own unique aura, or "shine", that only Steps can see.
This story was exciting, well-written, had great character development, had funny, quirky spots, and then some that were heartbreaking.
The way the book ended leads me to believe that this is the first book in a new outstanding series. I am already looking forward to book two.
I received this book from Minotaur Books in exchange for my unbiased review.
February 8, 2016
Magnus “Steps� Craig has a secret skill that only his father, his boss and his partner know. It is a kind of synethesia which allows him to see a unique essence of people in vivid color and texture and has caused him to be dubbed a human bloodhound by the media. Steps uses this skill as part of a special elite 3 person tracking team of the FBI. It consists of Steps, Jimmy Donovan (the real tactical FBI agent) and Diane, who works magic in the office doing internet research much like Garcia does on Criminal Minds.
Steps is not your typical FBI agent. His wise cracks and jokes cover up for the fact that he is deeply affected by the victims he doesn’t find in time. He collects pictures of the dead to remind him of his failures. He is particularly haunted by a serial killer from an old case whom he has dubbed Leonardo whose ‘trail� keeps reappearing as Steps is working on his current case.
Highly recommended for fans of Criminal Minds this is a brilliant debut thriller with a troubled but very likeable main character and terrific supporting cast.
Steps is not your typical FBI agent. His wise cracks and jokes cover up for the fact that he is deeply affected by the victims he doesn’t find in time. He collects pictures of the dead to remind him of his failures. He is particularly haunted by a serial killer from an old case whom he has dubbed Leonardo whose ‘trail� keeps reappearing as Steps is working on his current case.
Highly recommended for fans of Criminal Minds this is a brilliant debut thriller with a troubled but very likeable main character and terrific supporting cast.
November 29, 2017
Weak plot development, shallow characters, way too chatty. First person narrator has no gravitas. I gave up after reading one-third of this superficial waste of my time. Who knows - if I stuck with it things may have turned around. I just couldn't.
February 6, 2017
I love Steps and Jimmy! 4.5 stars
June 4, 2024
I was hovering over a 3 or 4 because I felt that it didn’t live up to my expectations and the MC - Steps is really annoying! I saw so many 5 stars reviews that made me wonder if there was something wrong with me.
I have nothing against supernatural abilities and I love reading about them and how it was hard to solve crimes but there are just too many “duh� scenarios. Like for one. Which FBI agent will use their home address for a car rental? Most books and shows that I’ve read and watched tend to ensure that their professional and personal lives are kept separated in case their love ones are targeted. I might give book 2 a chance. We shall see.
I have nothing against supernatural abilities and I love reading about them and how it was hard to solve crimes but there are just too many “duh� scenarios. Like for one. Which FBI agent will use their home address for a car rental? Most books and shows that I’ve read and watched tend to ensure that their professional and personal lives are kept separated in case their love ones are targeted. I might give book 2 a chance. We shall see.
June 27, 2016
Often times I like one aspect of a book, whether it be the characters, plot, or story execution, much better than the other aspects. Then there are times, as with this book, that I love them all equally. This book is fun, thoughtful, compelling, and extremely well written.
The story is based on what I call a realistic paranormal concept. Steps' "special ability" is outside the norm, yet completely believable. He struggles with this gift/curse in his everyday life, while quietly using it to the point of physical and emotional exhaustion in his professional life.
All of the characters are well developed. We learn about them through their relationships and dialogue, which really brings them to life. The story is written in first person, so we experience the events from Steps' perspective. He is quick-witted, a little haunted, and a genuine good guy. I enjoyed hanging out with him, and happily followed wherever he led.
The plot moves at a good pace, weaving in aspects of mystery, suspense, paranormal/supernatural, and police procedural. We uncover the clues along with Steps, which allows us to play a bit of detective, and at the same time we feel the anguish and intensity of the search as the characters do. The case at hand wraps up nicely at the end, while one little thread is left dangling for another book. I'm looking forward to finding out what comes next.
*I was provided with an advance copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.*
The story is based on what I call a realistic paranormal concept. Steps' "special ability" is outside the norm, yet completely believable. He struggles with this gift/curse in his everyday life, while quietly using it to the point of physical and emotional exhaustion in his professional life.
All of the characters are well developed. We learn about them through their relationships and dialogue, which really brings them to life. The story is written in first person, so we experience the events from Steps' perspective. He is quick-witted, a little haunted, and a genuine good guy. I enjoyed hanging out with him, and happily followed wherever he led.
The plot moves at a good pace, weaving in aspects of mystery, suspense, paranormal/supernatural, and police procedural. We uncover the clues along with Steps, which allows us to play a bit of detective, and at the same time we feel the anguish and intensity of the search as the characters do. The case at hand wraps up nicely at the end, while one little thread is left dangling for another book. I'm looking forward to finding out what comes next.
*I was provided with an advance copy from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for my honest review.*
June 28, 2016
St. Martin's Press and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of Collecting the Dead, in exchange for an honest review.
Magnus Craig: everyone has called him Steps since he was 14, when he found two young boys. Steps has a special ability known only to his father, his best friend Jimmy, and his boss, FBI Director Robert Carlson. As a member of the FBI's Special Tracking Unit for the past 5 years, Steps has been able to help dozens of missing people. The ones that he finds that are deceased, however, haunt his nights. When a current case reminds Steps of a previous one, will the FBI be able to pull together their resources and get justice for all of the victims?
From the first word to the last, I was mesmerized by the premise, the plot, and the well developed characters. Steps, along with Jimmy and the rest of the team, are so well realized that I could picture them traveling across the country, solving crimes for many years to come. I am a big fan of FBI thrillers, especially when the main character has a unique ability or a special talent. Steps definitely has joined the list as one of my favorites and I can only imagine where author Spencer Kope will take him into the future.
Magnus Craig: everyone has called him Steps since he was 14, when he found two young boys. Steps has a special ability known only to his father, his best friend Jimmy, and his boss, FBI Director Robert Carlson. As a member of the FBI's Special Tracking Unit for the past 5 years, Steps has been able to help dozens of missing people. The ones that he finds that are deceased, however, haunt his nights. When a current case reminds Steps of a previous one, will the FBI be able to pull together their resources and get justice for all of the victims?
From the first word to the last, I was mesmerized by the premise, the plot, and the well developed characters. Steps, along with Jimmy and the rest of the team, are so well realized that I could picture them traveling across the country, solving crimes for many years to come. I am a big fan of FBI thrillers, especially when the main character has a unique ability or a special talent. Steps definitely has joined the list as one of my favorites and I can only imagine where author Spencer Kope will take him into the future.
August 9, 2016
This didn't live up to its promise. It had a great premise - an FBI analyst who tracks missing people and hunts serial killers. But it's not through traditional tracking, it's through his "superpower." He sees peoples' essences through various colors and textures. I loved the idea of a mystery combined with a hint of the supernatural.
Unfortunately, the MC was kind of annoying. He was trying for the sardonic, self deprecating hero but missed. Instead, the MC comes off as kind of whiney. (The best sardonic "heroes" are the ones from the Carl Hiaasen books).
And, I had a lot of nits with the book. 1. If you are going to write a courtroom scene, have a real trial lawyer (preferably in that jurisdiction) take a look at it; 2. the MC comments a lot about not having an expense account for travel. IRL, FBI analysts, when they travel, do have one. They can rent cars in their own names or if they choose to share, the name can be added on and 3. What law enforcement officer would ever put their home address on a hotel room or car rental application? It just doesn't happen. It was a silly plot point.
Unfortunately, the MC was kind of annoying. He was trying for the sardonic, self deprecating hero but missed. Instead, the MC comes off as kind of whiney. (The best sardonic "heroes" are the ones from the Carl Hiaasen books).
And, I had a lot of nits with the book. 1. If you are going to write a courtroom scene, have a real trial lawyer (preferably in that jurisdiction) take a look at it; 2. the MC comments a lot about not having an expense account for travel. IRL, FBI analysts, when they travel, do have one. They can rent cars in their own names or if they choose to share, the name can be added on and 3. What law enforcement officer would ever put their home address on a hotel room or car rental application? It just doesn't happen. It was a silly plot point.
December 13, 2016
Thriller novels are so ridiculously common these days that coming across one that really stands out is an occasion to celebrate. This book was recommended in a recent article I read that had some well-known librarians in the US picking out one great summer read each. And I am glad I listened to the person who chose this.
Absolutely brilliant debut, confident writing, zany sense of humor, and the right amount of suspense. And, as more than one other reviewer has mentioned, I really enjoyed getting to know the entire team of the Special Tracking Unit.
Really looking forward to more books in the series. And, I hope they get a good film-maker to handle the project because this is a book shouting to be made into a great movie.
Absolutely brilliant debut, confident writing, zany sense of humor, and the right amount of suspense. And, as more than one other reviewer has mentioned, I really enjoyed getting to know the entire team of the Special Tracking Unit.
Really looking forward to more books in the series. And, I hope they get a good film-maker to handle the project because this is a book shouting to be made into a great movie.
September 30, 2016
Prior to reading Collecting the Dead, I have never cared for stories about people with paranormal powers because they seem so silly and unrealistic. Having completed Spencer Kope's book, I can say that I haven't changed my mind one goddamn bit. Kope's book was about a fellow nicknamed "Steps" who is a member of the FBI's Special Tracking Unit. Steps has the ability to see the psychic residue that people leave behind. He calls this residue their shine.
This ability, of course, leads to his being an ace tracker, although he does have a nemesis whose pursuit is the main thread in the book. Frankly, I would have been okay with Steps' ability but it went on from there and really did, in my stick-in-the-mud viewpoint, become silly.
I shall not read another book by Mr. Kope.
This ability, of course, leads to his being an ace tracker, although he does have a nemesis whose pursuit is the main thread in the book. Frankly, I would have been okay with Steps' ability but it went on from there and really did, in my stick-in-the-mud viewpoint, become silly.
I shall not read another book by Mr. Kope.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2018
I really liked the idea for the special ability that Spencer Kope came up with for the the character of Mangnus. He and his brother Jen made this a very enjoyable read. It got less than 4 or 5 stars though because so much time and story line seemed to be wasted explaining things that had no bearing on finding the killer. A little background material is good and necessary but there was just no point in some of it. I do want to read the second book in the series and hope hat Mr. Kope continues to write.
February 15, 2021
This was a very engaging book. I read it all in one sitting, I just couldn't put it down. Usually for me, police/FBI thrillers get a 3-4 stars, because while they can be good books, they just don't have that extra something to get 5 stars. This book has that extra something, which happens to be Steps' 'shine,' which is kind of like being able to see auras? Steps' ability to see colors that individuals leave behind make him an excellent tracker, especailly after serial killers.
I want to know more about the shine, I want to know more about Leonardo. I just want more from this world.
I want to know more about the shine, I want to know more about Leonardo. I just want more from this world.
March 5, 2016
Wonderful read! Collecting the Dead will keep you on the edge of your chair from start to finish and will leave you wanting so much more from "Steps" Craig!
June 27, 2016
From almost the first page, I was blown away by Collecting the Dead. Steps Craig has the world-weary voice of a man who's in his late forties or fifties, so I was shocked when I put two and two together and discovered this character is only twenty-seven. I suppose that's what happens when you refer to yourself as "just the undertaker's front man."
This is a tale marvelously told, from its well-paced, engrossing plot, to its lyrical descriptions and multi-faceted cast. Spencer Kope has written a barn
burner of a book that can have readers laughing one second and trying not to cry the next. And... like Diane is the glue that holds the Special Tracking Unit together, the entire cast holds Collecting the Dead together.
For the most part (but not always), the various police jurisdictions work together well with the FBI. These are professionals whose main aim is to save innocent lives, and this dedication adds a sense of urgency and tension to the book. Some of the more interesting scenes come when Steps and Jimmy Donovan try to find acceptable ways to divulge their "shine" findings to the police. But this "shine" often takes a backseat to the grunt work of checking and rechecking facts, reports, photos, interviews-- the very things that often break cases wide open. Kope walks a fine line between Steps' synesthesia and the more "mundane" police work extremely well.
Throughout Collecting the Dead, we watch Steps collecting information about a serial killer he calls Leonardo. It's his aim to catch Leonardo, and I sincerely hope readers get to watch him do so in a second book. I was buried so deeply in this story that my husband had to clap and shout at me to get my attention. I want to have that happen again. I want more Steps Craig-- and I'm certain you will, too!
This is a tale marvelously told, from its well-paced, engrossing plot, to its lyrical descriptions and multi-faceted cast. Spencer Kope has written a barn
burner of a book that can have readers laughing one second and trying not to cry the next. And... like Diane is the glue that holds the Special Tracking Unit together, the entire cast holds Collecting the Dead together.
For the most part (but not always), the various police jurisdictions work together well with the FBI. These are professionals whose main aim is to save innocent lives, and this dedication adds a sense of urgency and tension to the book. Some of the more interesting scenes come when Steps and Jimmy Donovan try to find acceptable ways to divulge their "shine" findings to the police. But this "shine" often takes a backseat to the grunt work of checking and rechecking facts, reports, photos, interviews-- the very things that often break cases wide open. Kope walks a fine line between Steps' synesthesia and the more "mundane" police work extremely well.
Throughout Collecting the Dead, we watch Steps collecting information about a serial killer he calls Leonardo. It's his aim to catch Leonardo, and I sincerely hope readers get to watch him do so in a second book. I was buried so deeply in this story that my husband had to clap and shout at me to get my attention. I want to have that happen again. I want more Steps Craig-- and I'm certain you will, too!
June 6, 2023
When you have a new author, at least new to you, in your crosshairs, you are never sure what you're going to get. Is it more intrigue or more romance? Is it action without a reasonable plot or is it inticate and catching your imagination? It's a crapshoot until you get into the book.
This was true of my first John Sandford Prey series novel, Connelly's Harry Bosch books, Tess Gerritsen's Rizzoli and Isles series, and many more. I've had a few misses but I've had some great hits also, including all of the above and now Mr. Kope.
I was looking at my "To Buy" list, a spreadsheet of authors and titles that I want to purchase and I saw one by Spencer Kope and did a modicum of research finding that I had one by him and hadn't read it yet. So I skipped it during that buying period and pulled Collecting The Dead from my nightstand to read. Now, having read that book I regret that I didn't buy the next in the series. You just never know.
Rarely have I felt the raw emotion that this book evoked. I laughed; oh yes, there is a good deal of humor in Mr. Kope's novel. But I also was brought to tears.
Magnus "Steps" Craig, a tracker with the FBI's Special Tracking Unit has a very special talent. He can see "shine". I'll let you read the book for an explantion as to what shine is.
Steps, along with his partner, Jimmy Donovan seek out serial killers and this time they have found a bad one (as if there were a good serial killer, Dexter not withstanding). How they hunt, and become the hunted themselves makes for quite a read. I'll let you prove that to yourself.
This was true of my first John Sandford Prey series novel, Connelly's Harry Bosch books, Tess Gerritsen's Rizzoli and Isles series, and many more. I've had a few misses but I've had some great hits also, including all of the above and now Mr. Kope.
I was looking at my "To Buy" list, a spreadsheet of authors and titles that I want to purchase and I saw one by Spencer Kope and did a modicum of research finding that I had one by him and hadn't read it yet. So I skipped it during that buying period and pulled Collecting The Dead from my nightstand to read. Now, having read that book I regret that I didn't buy the next in the series. You just never know.
Rarely have I felt the raw emotion that this book evoked. I laughed; oh yes, there is a good deal of humor in Mr. Kope's novel. But I also was brought to tears.
Magnus "Steps" Craig, a tracker with the FBI's Special Tracking Unit has a very special talent. He can see "shine". I'll let you read the book for an explantion as to what shine is.
Steps, along with his partner, Jimmy Donovan seek out serial killers and this time they have found a bad one (as if there were a good serial killer, Dexter not withstanding). How they hunt, and become the hunted themselves makes for quite a read. I'll let you prove that to yourself.
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