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Ivory Bones: The Lewis Chessmen Murders by Sara Winokur

Our Review:

Ivory Bones

In Sara Winokur’s latest novel, Ivory Bones: The Lewis Chessmen Murders, readers are plunged into a whirlwind of historical intrigue, forensic science, and relentless suspense. Ivory Bones is a thriller that intertwines the chilly atmosphere of Nordic culture with the rich tapestry of medieval history. Sara Winokur crafts a story that is intellectually stimulating while being an absolutely gripping read.

Ivory Bones begins with a gripping premise: the discovery of a centuries-old diary written by a woman abducted during the 1627 Barbary pirate raids on Iceland. The diary contains cryptic clues that could lead to the missing Lewis Chessmen, a set of priceless medieval artifacts whose whereabouts have remained a mystery for over a millennium. Brynja, already entangled in her own personal history—haunted by her family’s dark secrets and the mysterious disappearance of her twin brother—finds herself drawn into the investigation. 

As the plot thickens, Winokur deftly balances multiple storylines, interweaving Brynja’s present-day investigation with the historical narrative from the diary. This blend of timelines gives the reader an immersive experience, connecting the lives of people across centuries through the thread of one mystery. The author’s ability to weave history with a contemporary storyline is reminiscent of the best historical thrillers, while her scientific accuracy and expertise add a unique layer of authenticity. 

Winokur’s background as a geneticist enriches the novel’s scientific aspects. Brynja’s genetic expertise proves crucial to solving the mystery, providing a fascinating look into the cutting-edge world of forensic science. The detailed explanations of the genetic techniques used in the investigation are written in an accessible way, making the science understandable without detracting from the flow of the story. These scientific elements never feel heavy-handed, and they enhance the tension of the investigation, making readers feel as if they are following the forensic process step-by-step. 

Ivory Bones is more than a mysterious quest for historical artifacts; it’s an exploration of identity. Ivory Bones challenges readers to consider how much of who we are is shaped by our own heritage. This philosophical undertone enriches the story without overwhelming the suspense and action that drive the story. Ivory Bones is  deeply rooted in character and emotion. Brynja is a complex protagonist, shaped by the trauma of losing her brother and the weight of her family’s past. Her personal struggles run parallel to the murder investigation, and it is through this dual lens of professional determination and personal grief that readers connect with her. Brynja’s internal conflict adds emotional depth to the novel, making her more than just a detached investigator. 

Sara Winokur has crafted a masterful thriller that combines the past and the present, personal pain and historical trauma, into a compelling story. Ivory Bones leaves readers to ponder the true nature of fate and free will. Each chapter builds on the last, weaving historical facts, genetic science, and character growth. It’s a novel that spans time and discipline—part historical intrigue, part scientific thriller, and part deeply personal exploration of loss and redemption.

Ivory Bones: The Lewis Chessmen Murders is a must-read for anyone drawn to a blend of deep historical context and cutting-edge science. Sara Winokur’s ability to mesh the gritty realism of forensic science with the  beauty of Icelandic lore makes this book a uniquely intriguing read. Her portrayal of Brynja as a flawed yet fiercely intelligent protagonist provides a fresh and engaging perspective. I particularly enjoyed  that the story respects the reader’s intelligence, presenting complex ideas and moral questions without easy answers. Finishing Ivory Bones is like leaving a great conversation; the thoughts it provokes continue to speak to you, proving that some stories refuse to be shelved.

Ivory Bones: The Lewis Chessmen Murders is a must-read for anyone drawn to a blend of deep historical context and cutting-edge science. “

“Ivory Bones is a thriller that intertwines the chilly atmosphere of Nordic culture with the rich tapestry of medieval history.”

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