Overview

Consumed is a gripping crime thriller that begins on a remote farm where an elderly woman falls and is horrifically consumed overnight by her pigs. Forensic vet Cooper Allen is called in and becomes obsessed with the case and the secrets it hides, pulling her deep into mystery and danger.

Writing & Voice

We found Buchanan’s prose sharp and stylish. He balances vivid, unsettling scenes with procedural depth. The narrative pushes us forward with tense urgency and clear psychological insight that keeps the reader engaged throughout.

Content & Perspective

The novel follows Cooper Allen as she investigates a strange death that unravels into decades old mysteries. As she digs deeper, she confronts hidden lives, dangerous truths, and her own obsessions. The remote setting and dark events create a pervasive sense of unease.

Themes

Consumed explores obsession, deception, and the weight of hidden pasts. It also looks at how truth can distort and consume those who seek it, reflecting on how trauma and secrecy shape identity and motivation.

What Worked

• Dark, compelling premise that grabs attention early.
• Strong lead in forensic vet Cooper Allen.
• Atmospheric setting and psychological tension.

Minor Quibbles

• Some plot threads are complex and require attention.
• The intensity may be unsettling for sensitive readers.

Final Thoughts

We found Consumed bold and unsettling, marrying a shocking premise to psychological depth, and letting obsession, secrecy, and rural isolation drive a relentlessly absorbing investigation.

Rating: ★★★★★ / 5