Guilt

My Thoughts

Guilt demonstrates why Jonathan Kellerman's Alex Delaware series has endured for nearly three decades. This is solid, intelligent crime fiction that balances psychological insight with compelling mystery plotting. While it may not reach the heights of the series' best entries, it delivers exactly what fans expect: a complex case, nuanced characterization, and Los Angeles atmosphere so vivid you can feel the heat.

The central mystery—a cold case reopened when new evidence emerges about a young woman's death—provides Kellerman with opportunities to explore themes of guilt, justice delayed, and how the past refuses to stay buried. The investigation unfolds methodically but never sluggishly, with Delaware and Sturgis following leads that twist and complicate in satisfying ways.

What I particularly appreciate about this series, and this book specifically, is Kellerman's attention to the psychological dimensions of crime. Delaware's insights as a psychologist add depth to what could be standard procedural fare. He doesn't just identify suspects; he understands motivations, reads people, and recognizes the emotional undercurrents that drive human behavior. This psychological sophistication elevates the story.

The relationship between Delaware and Sturgis remains one of the series' great strengths. Their friendship feels authentic after so many books together, and their complementary skills—Delaware's psychological acumen and Sturgis's detective work—create an effective partnership. The supporting cast, including Delaware's girlfriend Robin, adds warmth and humanity to what could otherwise be a grim procedural.

Kellerman's Los Angeles is almost a character itself—not the glamorous Hollywood version but the real city with its stark contrasts between wealth and poverty, beauty and decay. The setting enhances the story's atmosphere and themes.

If I have a criticism, it's that the plot occasionally relies on convenient coincidences, and some secondary characters feel a bit thin. Additionally, after 28 books, there's an inevitable sense of formula—though Kellerman executes that formula well enough that it rarely bothers me.

Why You'll Love It

• Psychological Depth: More than a standard procedural; explores the psychology of crime
• Strong Partnership: Delaware and Sturgis's relationship adds warmth and humor
• Complex Mystery: Well-plotted with satisfying twists and revelations
• Los Angeles Atmosphere: Vivid sense of place that enhances the story
• Series Continuity: Longtime fans will appreciate character development
• Intelligent Writing: Smart, literate crime fiction for adult readers

Perfect For

Fans of the Alex Delaware series will find this a worthy addition. Also great for readers who enjoy psychological mysteries, detective partnerships like those in Tana French or Michael Connelly's books, and anyone who appreciates well-crafted procedurals with character depth. Good for those who want intelligent crime fiction without graphic violence.

Final Verdict

Guilt is a strong entry in a consistently excellent series. Kellerman delivers intelligent, psychologically nuanced crime fiction with compelling characters and an engaging mystery. While it breaks no new ground for the series, it demonstrates the strengths that have kept readers coming back for decades. Solid, satisfying mystery writing from a master of the form.