Liz Catalano is given a DNA kit by her cousin and housemate. When the results arrive, they reveal more than expected. Her loving parents have to finally confess that Liz was adopted at birth. But when the FBI agents come calling, she is in for another shock. Her DNA connects her to the cold case of a serial killer who first appeared on the scene 40 years ago. While the Tri-State Killer has not struck in a while, the killer could still be on the loose.
In their debut novel, authors Steph Mullin and Nicole Mabry combine the fascination of DNA testing with the gruesomeness of a cold and calculating killer who captures and ultimately kills two women at a time. Liz is overjoyed to discover her maternal great-uncle, who provides valuable information on maternal birth side. Hoping to be a journalist one day, Liz is too curious for own good, rejecting the FBI’s advise to be careful and let them do their job.
Being someone who has taken a DNA test and has become ensconced in the world of genealogy, The Family Tree was a good match for me. (No killers discovered in my family tree.) The story is a good, original one. The crimes of the killer are detailed and chilling. While I liked Liz, I often felt frustrated by some of her actions. It's an impressive debut by the authors and I’m looking forward to seeing what they come up with next. If you too are a budding genealogist, check this one out.
Many thanks to Avon / Harper 360 / HarperCollins and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this inventive book in advance of its publication.
Rated 3.75 out of 5 stars.
Mystery / Thriller.
Publication Date: October 5, 2021.
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