Chosen Prey highlights one of the things I really enjoy about John Sandford’s writing. As the Lucas Davenport series continues, side characters from previous books keep popping up. Not only does Sandford keep the series moving forward with good character development, but he also re-introduces peripheral characters. When Randy makes his return in this book, Sandford makes sure to tell you about Randy’s shenanigans while he is away.
Book Information
Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons
First Published: January 1 2001
Format: e-book
Source: Library
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Series: Lucas Davenport #12
Occasionally, Sandford’s villains are too high-strung and fussy. It was hard to imagine Chosen Prey’s villain, John Qatar, getting dirty without planning an outfit change. Qatar was an uncomfortable character, a monster from the day he was born. I found it strange that his killings were initially motivated by sexual perversion, but as the story progressed, his motivations changed. The art aspect didn’t play much of a factor after Qatar realized he had drawn police attention.
Published in 2001, Chosen Prey shows its age with an LGBTQ+ “joke.” I didn’t like it; it wasn’t funny, and I’d prefer not to read it. I do remember 2001, though, when jokes of that nature weren’t as socially unacceptable as they are now. I had to remind myself that this book is of its time and generally does well for its time.
I love that Weather is back on the scene with her matter-of-fact quips. Weather’s insight into Marshall validated my feelings. I found Marshall to be a bit too bluff and good ol’ guy for my tastes. I’m excited about Marcy’s trajectory, and Rose Marie is dangling new opportunities for Davenport.
The pacing is great in Chosen Prey. I was fully engaged in the story the whole time. I appreciate that Davenport struggles with ethical dilemmas on the page, the different strings pulling Lucas this way and that. Lucas has a really strong sense of what is right. I would never describe him as morally grey, but he’s absolutely legally grey, which is an interesting position for a police detective to be in.
I’m glad I grabbed the 5 book bundle so I can dive right into the next book.
Links
John Sandford Reviews
Lucas Davenport Series
#11 – Easy Prey
#12 – Chosen Prey
#13 – Mortal Prey
#14 – Naked Prey
#15 – Hidden Prey
#16 – Broken Prey
#17 – Invisible Prey
#18 – Phantom Prey
#19 – Wicked Prey
#20 – Storm Prey