Postmortem summary

Investigating the Unthinkable

In Postmortem by Patricia Cornwell, we are introduced to Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a forensic pathologist who is called to investigate a series of brutal murders in Richmond, Virginia. The victims are all young women, and their bodies are found with strange markings on their skin. As Scarpetta delves deeper into the case, she realizes that the killer is not only intelligent but also has a deep understanding of forensic science.

Scarpetta's investigation is further complicated by the arrival of her new assistant, Benton Wesley, an FBI profiler. Their professional relationship quickly turns personal, adding a layer of complexity to the already intense case. As the body count rises, Scarpetta and Wesley struggle to keep up with the killer's cunning and meticulous methods.

A Race Against Time

In the midst of the investigation, Scarpetta becomes the target of the killer's taunting messages, which are sent to her office. The messages are chillingly personal, indicating that the killer is someone close to her. Scarpetta's fear and paranoia grow as she realizes that the killer is always one step ahead of her.

As the investigation progresses, Scarpetta and Wesley uncover a shocking connection between the victims, leading them to believe that the killer is targeting women who have had abortions. This revelation adds a new layer of urgency to their search for the killer, as they fear that he may strike again at any moment.

Unmasking the Killer

In the final act of Postmortem, Scarpetta and Wesley are able to identify the killer as a colleague of Scarpetta's, a man named Rudy. Rudy's motive for the murders is his deep-seated hatred towards women who have had abortions, stemming from his own traumatic childhood experiences. His meticulous planning and knowledge of forensic science allowed him to evade capture for so long.

Scarpetta and Wesley confront Rudy at his home, leading to a tense and violent showdown. In the end, Rudy is killed, but not before inflicting a serious injury on Scarpetta. The novel concludes with Scarpetta recovering from her injuries, reflecting on the case, and preparing for her next forensic investigation.

In Conclusion

In Postmortem, Patricia Cornwell introduces us to a strong and intelligent protagonist in Dr. Kay Scarpetta. The novel is a gripping and intense thriller, filled with detailed forensic procedures and a complex, multi-layered plot. As Scarpetta battles her personal demons and confronts a ruthless killer, we are taken on a thrilling journey through the world of forensic pathology and criminal psychology.