Cause of Death

Cause of Death is a crime novel by Patricia Cornwell and part of her Kay Scarpetta series. The story begins when medical examiner Dr. Kay Scarpetta is called to investigate the suspicious death of a journalist whose body is found in a restricted naval area. What initially appears to be an isolated case soon develops into a far more dangerous investigation involving secrecy, extremism, and national security. The novel combines forensic detail, suspense, and psychological tension as Scarpetta uncovers the truth behind the victim’s death.