Coffin Dancer
The Coffin Dancer: A Thrilling and Pulse-Pounding Read
Jeffery Deaver is a master of the suspense thriller genre, and his novel Coffin Dancer is no exception. With heart-pounding action, a complex plot, and memorable characters, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. In this article, we’ll explore the plot, characters, and themes of Coffin Dancer and why it’s a must-read for any fan of suspense thrillers.
The Plot
Coffin Dancer is the second book in Deaver’s Lincoln Rhyme series, following The Bone Collector. The plot revolves around a killer-for-hire, known as the Coffin Dancer, who is responsible for a series of murders that leave no traceable evidence behind. When the Dancer sets his sights on the witnesses who are scheduled to testify against his employer, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), the stakes become even higher.
At the center of the story is Lincoln Rhyme, a quadriplegic forensic investigator who depends on his sharp intellect and loyal assistant, Amelia Sachs, to solve crimes. Rhyme and Sachs are tasked with finding and stopping the Coffin Dancer before he can silence the witnesses, but the Dancer seems always to be one step ahead of them. The book follows their intense search as they race against the clock to catch the killer.
The Characters
One of Deaver’s strengths as a writer is his ability to create complex, multi-dimensional characters that readers can root for—and Coffin Dancer is no exception. At the center of the story is Lincoln Rhyme, the quadriplegic forensic investigator who relies on his mind to solve cases. Rhyme can come across as gruff and difficult to work with, but his dedication to his job and his intellect make him a compelling protagonist.
Amelia Sachs serves as Rhyme’s eyes and ears on the ground, tracking down leads and chasing the Dancer when he comes into view. Sachs is a strong, kick-ass, and intelligent woman who is determined to catch the killer. Her interactions with Rhyme are full of sharp wit and banter, making for a compelling and dynamic duo.
The Coffin Dancer himself is a chilling and mysterious figure. We get to know little about him personally, but his actions and motivations come through in haunting detail. The Dancer is cold, calculating, and efficient, making him a truly terrifying character.
The Themes
Coffin Dancer deals with themes of justice, power, and control. At the start of the book, the ATF is the agency in control, using its power to pursue a case against a group of criminals. However, as the Coffin Dancer begins to hunt down and eliminate witnesses, the power dynamic shifts—now the killer is in control, and the ATF is struggling to keep up.
Another significant theme of the book is the idea of morality and the lengths people will go to achieve justice. Rhyme is a man driven by his need to bring criminals to justice and is willing to use unconventional methods to do so. However, this often puts him in conflict with the law, leading to a tense and compelling moral dilemma.
Conclusion
Coffin Dancer is a thrilling and pulse-pounding read that will leave you on the edge of your seat. With complex characters and a layered plot, it’s no wonder that Deaver is considered one of the top suspense thriller writers of our time. Whether you are a fan of the genre or just looking for a story that will keep you guessing until the very end, Coffin Dancer is a must-read.
