Death Rites is the opening to a new crime thriller series based around Archaeology professor Carla James and overall it was a highly enjoyable and easy to read crime thriller.

When newcome to town, Carla, is brought in to bring some potential insight into items found around a victim's body she becomes drawn into the case and becomes quickly convinced that a serial killer is hunting in their town.

The story is strong and intriguing and I really liked the addition of the allusions to witchcraft and old folk superstitions. I did knock it down a little because some of Carla's decisions aren't smart and read to me as aimed at padding the story a bit and the reasoning for Carla being brought in and involved is very thin. I did like the supporting cast of characters, especially Erin and Perez.

It took a little time for the pace to pick up but when it did and the story started to unfold with connections becoming clear and secrets being revealed, I was all in and really enjoyed the ride. Definitely enjoyed it enough to read the next in the series and I think fans of Patricia Cornwell and Kathy Reichs will enjoy many elements of the story and characters.

Thank you to Canelo and Netgalley for providing an eArc of "Death Rites" in exchange for my honest and voluntary review.