Book Review: Open Season (Alex Delaware, #40) by Jonathan Kellerman
As a long-time fan of Jonathan Kellerman’s Alex Delaware series, diving into Open Season felt like slipping into a well-loved sweater. With its fortieth installment set to hit shelves on February 4, 2025, I couldn’t resist the nostalgic tug to reconnect with familiar characters who have come to feel like old friends. Thanks to NetGalley and Random House/Ballantine Books for the advance copy; it’s always exciting to get a sneak peek into a beloved narrative universe.
Kellerman’s storytelling prowess remains firmly intact, and the warmth of his writing envelops you in this latest mystery featuring our child psychologist-turned-consultant. Alex Delaware is accompanied by his loyal friend Detective Milo Sturgis, and there’s a charming familiarity in their interactions that made me smile more than once. I found comfort in the recurring cast: Milo raiding Alex’s fridge, the occasional appearance of cops Sean and Petra, and even the ever-adorable Blanche, Alex and Robin’s French bulldog. Their dynamics are filled with warmth and humor, offering readers the delightful camaraderie that many series struggle to maintain over decades.
Plot-wise, Open Season revolves around a chilling sniper case. While I found the progression engaging, it lacked a certain sparkle that earlier novels delivered. It was refreshing, however, to see a narrative steer clear of the more sensational themes of prior installments, like intricate plots involving kidnapping or addiction. Unfortunately, I felt the sting of some politically charged remarks concerning abortion, which marred my reading experience. Though I usually rate Kellerman’s works a solid four stars, this aspect nudged my rating down to 3.5. It’s a personal choice, but one that reflects the power of narrative decisions.
Kellerman’s writing style continues to feel accessible yet sophisticated, mirroring the balance of intrigue and personal reflection that defines the series. The pacing kept me engaged, though at times it felt slightly uneven, as if the tension didn’t match the compelling situation. I appreciated that while realism is minimal—let’s be honest, Alex would likely not ride in a police car—Kellerman keeps the absurdity tempered enough for my willing suspension of disbelief. After all, who wouldn’t want to join Alex and Milo on a rollercoaster of crime-solving, even if it stretches plausibility?
For both long-time fans and newbies, Open Season provides an intriguing entry point into the world of Alex Delaware. If you’re new to the series, I’d recommend either diving into When the Bough Breaks to get the foundation of Alex’s professional journey or checking out the previous installment—#39—if you want a taste of Kellerman’s more vibrant storytelling.
In conclusion, while Open Season didn’t quite reach the peaks of its predecessors for me, it still delivers enough intrigue and familiar charm to entertain. For those who have followed Alex and Milo through the years or seek a mystery that’s both thoughtful and engaging, this book surely rewards time spent with its pages, making it a worthwhile addition to the collection—ideally at a discount! Here’s to many more adventures with Alex Delaware; I await the next installment with hopeful anticipation.
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