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Nathan Dylan Goodwin
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The Sawtooth Slayer (Venator Cold Case Series Book 2) Kindle Edition

by Nathan Dylan Goodwin (Author) Format: Kindle Edition
4.7 out of 5 stars 1,114 ratings
‘Highly recommended’
Who Do You Think You Are? magazine

April 2020, Twin Falls, Idaho. A serial killer is on the loose. A nameless man is kidnapping young women from their own homes, taking them out of the city to kill them before returning their bodies to random locations around the city. Detective Maria Gonzalez heads up the investigation but has very few leads to pursue. As time passes and fears rise that the killer might strike again with a fifth victim, Maria turns to Venator—an investigative genetic genealogy company—in the hope that they can identify the killer from his DNA alone before he has the chance to take yet another life. Despite her initial reticence to take on the company’s first ever live case, Madison Scott-Barnhart and her team in Salt Lake City agree to try to reveal the identity of this barbaric serial killer. In the midst of the global pandemic that has closed the Venator office and posed both personal and professional problems for Madison, time is running out on this case.

This is the second novel in the Venator Cold Case series. Although it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone story, for the best experience, begin your journey with The Chester Creek Murders.

‘Gripping to the point of being un-put-downable, the core story is fascinating to anyone who enjoys crime novels, and particularly those with an interest in the use of DNA in genealogy research’
Family Tree magazine

‘Once you start reading you won’t want to stop – though that’s what I’ve come to expect from this author. Highly recommended!’
LostCousins

‘I was sad when I finished the book and am looking forward to the next installment’
Jonny Perl, DNA Painter

‘A heck of a romp! Exceedingly well researched and well written…the best genealogy investigation writer in the world’
The Genealogy Guys

‘Goodwin’s best work yet’
GenealogyMagazine.com

‘It’s a must-read, especially if you’re interested in how DNA evidence is used in investigative genetic genealogy. Nathan’s writing is entertaining and informative and prompts readers to think about they can approach their own research’
Society of Australian Genealogists

Keep updated on Nathan Dylan Goodwin's work:
Website & newsletter: www.nathandylangoodwin.com
Twitter: @NathanDGoodwin
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nathandylangoodwin
Instagram: www.instagram.com/NathanDylanGoodwin
Read more
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  1. Book 2 of 3
    Venator Cold Case Series
  2. Print length
    350 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Accessibility
    Learn more
  5. Publication date
    October 28, 2022
  6. File size
    2.3 MB
  7. Page Flip
    Enabled
  8. Word Wise
    Enabled
  9. Enhanced typesetting
    Enabled
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There are 3 books in this series.
This option includes 3 books.

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From the Publisher

Praise for The Sawtooth Slayer
Purchase options for The Sawtooth Slayer
Praise for The Sawtooth Slayer
All Venator Cold Case books

Editorial Reviews

Review

'Gripping to the point of being un-put-downable, the core story is fascinating to anyone who enjoys crime novels, and particularly those with an interest in the use of DNA in genealogy research'
Family Tree magazine

'Highly recommended'
Who Do You Think You Are? magazine

'Once you start reading you won't want to stop - though that's what I've come to expect from this author. Highly recommended!'
LostCousins

'I was sad when I finished the book and am looking forward to the next installment'
Jonny Perl, DNA Painter

'A heck of a romp! Exceedingly well researched and well written...the best genealogy investigation writer in the world'
The Genealogy Guys

'Goodwin's best work yet'
GenealogyMagazine

'You really need to grab it yesterday as it does an outstanding job of teaching you the process, but almost without you realizing because it's all wrapped up in a 'What happens next?' story with interlacing plot lines and characters you'll genuinely care about'
Megan Smolenyak

'It was difficult to put it down. The reader will want to digest each word since the author describes in detail how the discovery process is accomplished'
Family Tree Archaeology

'It's a must-read, especially if you're interested in how DNA evidence is used in investigative genetic genealogy. Nathan's writing is entertaining and informative and prompts readers to think about they can approach their own research'
Society of Australian Genealogists

'This is not simply a crime novel with a genealogical twist; it is a masterclass in DNA'
West Middlesex Family History Society
'A satisfying blend of murder mystery thriller and realistic DNA-based family history research'
Waltham Forest FHS

'Put this great book on your list of must-reads. You'll be glad you did!'
Columbia County Historical & Genealogical Society

'Once again, Goodwin has presented a story that combines the techniques of genealogy with all the essential elements of a good mystery'
Jefferson County NY Genealogical Society

'Nathan Dylan Godwin's latest novel: The Sawtooth Slayer is a spellbinding page-turner set during the pandemic.The latest DNA research and genealogy techniques are unparalleled in solving this mystery.You will feel as though you are a part of the "Venator" team in this fast passed, well-written novel'
James Winston, The Baytown Genealogy Society, Inc.

'Goodwin keeps you glued to the book, so you don't want to put it down'
Wayne County Genealogical Society

'Nathan Dylan Goodwin has given us another heart-pounding mystery. Once you dive into this case, you won't be able to put it down'
Boulder Genealogical Society

'This mystery is spellbinding to any reader, but especially to those who have an interest in genealogy'
Genealogical Society of Rockingham and Stokes Counties

'Another fantastically written page-turner from Nathan Dylan Goodwin'
Hertfordshire People

'It's fast-paced and I didn't want it to end'
Oakland County Genealogical Society

'My new favorite mystery author is Nathan Dylan Goodwin'
Kitty Cooper

'You cannot go wrong spending time reading any of Nathan's books which can be read as stand-alone reads or as a series. The Sawtooth Slayer is a wonderful read on its own and continues smoothly on from the Chester Creek Murders. Now what are you waiting for?'
Wakefield & District FHS

'A recommended read'
Powys Family History Society

'This book will have you sitting on the edge of your chair as you read it'
Tuolumne County Genealogical Society

'If you enjoy a strong murder mystery story and are fascinated by how DNA is used to discover an unknown individual and solve cases criminal or genealogical, give The Sawtooth Slayer a read'
Liverpool & SW Lancs FHS

'An excellent read!'
Mid-Norfolk FHS

About the Author

Nathan Dylan Goodwin is a writer, genealogist and educator. He was born and raised in Hastings, East Sussex. Having attended school in the town, he then completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio, Film and Television Studies, followed by a Master of Arts degree in Creative Writing at Canterbury Christ Church University. A member of the Society of Authors and the Crime Writers' Association, he has completed several local history books about Hastings, as well as several works of fiction, including the acclaimed Forensic Genealogist series, the Mrs McDougall Investigates series and the Venator Cold Case series. His other interests include theatre, reading, running, skiing, travelling and, of course, genealogy. He is a qualified teacher, member of the Guild of One-Name Studies and the Society of Genealogists, as well as being a member of the Sussex Family History Group, the Norfolk Family History Society and the Kent Family History Society. He lives in Kent with his husband, son, dog and an assortment of chickens.

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0B8ZP2V6C
  • Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ October 28, 2022
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 2.3 MB
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 350 pages
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Book 2 of 3 ‏ : ‎ Venator Cold Case Series
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 out of 5 stars 1,114 ratings

About the author

Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Nathan Dylan Goodwin

Nathan Dylan Goodwin

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Nathan Dylan Goodwin is a writer, genealogist and educator. He was born and raised in Hastings, East Sussex. Having attended school in the town, he then completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio, Film and Television Studies, followed by a Master of Arts degree in Creative Writing at Canterbury Christ Church University. A member of the Society of Authors and the Crime Writers’ Association, he has completed several local history books about Hastings, as well as several works of fiction, including the acclaimed Forensic Genealogist series, the Mrs McDougall Investigates series and the Venator Cold Case series.

His other interests include theatre, reading, running, skiing, travelling and, of course, genealogy. He is a qualified teacher, member of the Guild of One-Name Studies and the Society of Genealogists, as well as being a member of the Sussex Family History Group, the Norfolk Family History Society and the Kent Family History Society. He lives in Kent with his husband, son, dog and an assortment of chickens.

Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
1,114 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers find this genealogical mystery book well-written and thoroughly engaging, with one customer noting how it weaves other storylines with genealogical research. They appreciate the relatable characters and find the writing quality excellent. Customers describe the book as creepy, adding to its suspenseful atmosphere.

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GenealogyReadabilityCharacter developmentWriting qualityCreepiness
39 customers mention "Genealogy"39 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the genealogical elements of the book, appreciating the great details of research and the blend of mystery, with one customer noting how it weaves other storylines into the genealogy narrative.

"...This criminal was creepy at best and the story came to a satisfying conclusion. Learned some new research techniques too that I can’t wait to try!!..." Read more

"...I recommend this to everyone who likes a great mystery, Genealogy, police work, team work of any kind, not to mention real life relationship issues...." Read more

"...The author certainly has a grasp of genetic genealogy beyond most and deserves kudos for this novel...." Read more

"...The discussion of genealogy and how it can be used to help solve crimes is coincidentally relevant as the media tells us that the capture of the..." Read more

33 customers mention "Readability"33 positive0 negative

Customers find the book to be a fantastic read and thoroughly enjoyable, with one customer mentioning they read it straight through without stopping.

"...They were so well developed they were like real people. Well done author!..." Read more

"...Great job Nathan. (No it is not apparent at all that you are a Brit writing about a scenario taking place in the US…) Thanks" Read more

"This is a fun read and would have warranted a five stars except for the voluminous amount of names within the many DNA clusters...." Read more

"This book is a fantastic read! I tried to slowly read the book so it would last longer, but that didn't happen...." Read more

10 customers mention "Character development"10 positive0 negative

Customers appreciate the character development in the book, finding them relatable.

"This was a hold on to your seat story. The characters became even more beloved as I learned more about them...." Read more

"...And wow! Nathan Dylan Goodwin writes so well and his characters are so vivid. I love all the details to DNA studies and genealogy research...." Read more

"...The characters are fleshed out so the reader is invested in each of them...." Read more

"...The stories are very interesting and the characters have back stories that you learn as you progress through each of his 3 series...." Read more

8 customers mention "Writing quality"8 positive0 negative

Customers praise the writing quality of the book.

"...They were so well developed they were like real people. Well done author!..." Read more

"The quality of writing in this book takes me right into their lives. The mystery and tension had my heart racing at times...." Read more

"...And wow! Nathan Dylan Goodwin writes so well and his characters are so vivid. I love all the details to DNA studies and genealogy research...." Read more

"Nathan Dylan Goodwin's books are always well written and a good read that keep me up way too late, but I think this one is a Masterclass in genetic..." Read more

3 customers mention "Creepiness"3 positive0 negative

Customers find the book creepy.

"...This criminal was creepy at best and the story came to a satisfying conclusion. Learned some new research techniques too that I can’t wait to try!!..." Read more

"Loved this book. Intense and a bit scary. I read it in 2 days...." Read more

"As an Idahoan, I found the book both fascinating and creepy..." Read more

A new fan!!!
5 out of 5 stars
A new fan!!!
I have shared my book with my Mother, age 92, she loves it and likes the fact using DNA to solve murder, serial rapists cases. Looking to catch up with Mom on reading a Venator Cold Case Series! she is a Nathan fan!
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Kindle Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Couldn’t put it down
    Reviewed in the United States on November 15, 2023
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    This was a hold on to your seat story. The characters became even more beloved as I learned more about them. They were so well developed they were like real people. Well done author! As an amateur genealogist I love what DNA forensics can do to help solve crimes. This criminal was creepy at best and the story came to a satisfying conclusion. Learned some new research techniques too that I can’t wait to try!! No gratuitous profanity or sexual content for those that like clean stories where the writing shines and not the smut.
    Helpful
     Report
  • LadyPendragon
    5.0 out of 5 stars so Believable Iwant to be a DNA Investigator
    Reviewed in the United States on March 27, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    The quality of writing in this book takes me right into their lives. The mystery and tension had my heart racing at times. I recommend this to everyone who likes a great mystery, Genealogy, police work, team work of any kind, not to mention real life relationship issues. Great job Nathan. (No it is not apparent at all that you are a Brit writing about a scenario taking place in the US…) Thanks
    Helpful
     Report
  • ML Condike, Author
    4.0 out of 5 stars Tons of details and a believable plot
    Reviewed in the United States on November 9, 2024
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    This is a fun read and would have warranted a five stars except for the voluminous amount of names within the many DNA clusters. The author certainly has a grasp of genetic genealogy beyond most and deserves kudos for this novel. The avid readers of genealogy mysteries and the actual genealogist will eat this up. It might scare off a new reader of the genre with the incredible amount of detail. Bravo! Great job!
    Helpful
     Report
  • Nina M. Ray
    5.0 out of 5 stars As an Idahoan, I found the book both fascinating and creepy
    Reviewed in the United States on March 18, 2023
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    I live two hours from Twin Fall, Idaho, the setting, and am very curious how the author, a Brit, even knows about our state. The discussion of genealogy and how it can be used to help solve crimes is coincidentally relevant as the media tells us that the capture of the real life November 2022 Moscow, ID suspected killer was helped by genealogy.

    How could I not read this when it is set in my state?! I also have been researching my own family history, so the genealogy references were interesting and perhaps helpful.

    I’m a fan of British cozies (I don’t like too much graphic or creepy detail about the dead body or the killer), and there were parts of this book I had to skim through, as I found them troubling. But the rest of the novel made me unable to put it down. I began to care about the characters and enjoyed the cliffhangers, even if they were frustrating. Also have read the author’s The Asylum, which I’m sure has addicted me to that series, and it has less violence and creepy details of bad people.

    Im sure I’ll be reading many more of his books.
    2 people found this helpful
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  • Zoey
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great Read!!!!
    Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2025
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Can’t wait to start the 3rd book in this series. I know it will be just as good as the other two.
    Helpful
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  • Kindle Customer
    5.0 out of 5 stars Genealogy
    Reviewed in the United States on July 26, 2024
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    This book will appeal mostly to genealogist. It's really explaining the process that's involved when finding how a person is related to a family group. It's a lot of work to document birth, marriage and death records. It's not just a click of the mouse on Ancestry.
    The several different plots going on along with The process, was brilliant. I
    just ordered the first book in his new series and can't wait for it too arrive.
    Helpful
     Report
  • David M. Wadell
    5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic read! A real page turner!!
    Reviewed in the United States on April 19, 2023
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    This book is a fantastic read! I tried to slowly read the book so it would last longer, but that didn't happen. It took me only about 2 1/2 days to finish it up. And wow! Nathan Dylan Goodwin writes so well and his characters are so vivid. I love all the details to DNA studies and genealogy research. I cannot wait for his next book. If you haven’t read this book as yet, what you are waiting for! 😊
    2 people found this helpful
    Helpful
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  • Claire
    5.0 out of 5 stars Outstanding!
    Reviewed in the United States on March 27, 2025
    Format: Audible AudiobookVerified Purchase
    Definitely a good read, would highly recommend!
    Helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • pe c.
    5.0 out of 5 stars Gripping Race Against Time
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 21, 2023
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Suspense and thriller writing at it’s absolute best! Nathan Dylan Goodwin delivers once again in the second of the cold case series of books entitled The Sawtooth Slayer. Nathan’s books are always so thoroughly well researched and detailed and they really leave you on the edge of your seat. If you love family history, genealogy and working with DNA, then you are definitely in for a real treat. What I love about these books are the way that Nathan develops the characters who form part of the Venator cold case team and they each have their own back story and sub plot, which takes you on a real roller coaster, aside form the main story itself, which is both gripping and harrowing. In this book the team area actually tracking a real life serial killer and trying to find out who he is before he strikes again. A real race against time. Initially The Venator team are reluctant to take on a live case, preferring to stick to their tried and tested method of solving cold cases, Maddie and the team are persuaded to take the case on, but the clock is ticking once the next girl goes missing. You will not be able to put this book down as the suspense builds to the final outcome. The best book you will read all summer.
    Report
  • SusanLovesBooks
    5.0 out of 5 stars Another smash hit by this author
    Reviewed in Canada on November 26, 2022
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    Every book by this author is excellent and this one is no exception. I read the book as soon as it was available and now regret it because I read it too fast and will have to wait ages for the next installment. I recommend you read the previous book to this one as an appetizer. Such an exciting story, good character building and I loved the descriptions of the research the people in the book are doing. Wonderful book and not just for genealogists, though genealogists and family historians will revel in the details.
    Report
  • Darklldo
    5.0 out of 5 stars Thank goodness there is a third book after this.
    Reviewed in Australia on April 18, 2025
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    This is a whole new experience, solving murder by genetic and ancestral plotting. If you are into ancestral history and wanting to track your past grandparents back further than you already know these books are a very good way to begin to learn how to do it successfully.
    There are any number of sites on the Internet you can use that are not all made readily available just because you are seeking your people, but read these books and you will get help in understand just how difficult it can be to be sure you are being accurate.
    The Venator group is made up of six people, Maddie, Kenyatta, Hudson, Becky and Ross. Normally they work on cold cases that have been hanging fire for a long time and need to be resolved, but this time the police have asked for help to catch a killer who is active in the present.
    He has killed four times so far and everyone is waiting for the next.
    It's a desperate case, and so every opportunity to identify the killer now includes the genetic work of the Venator people.
    One would expect it could be boring, but it is certainly not that. There are other stories and mysteries slowly evolving to do with the group and each of them have families or histories of such.
    A tricky subject to try and write about and describe in a fictional series of books, but Nathan Dylan Goodwin manages it superbly , holding my attention to the end and not wanting to let go.
    Thank goodness there is a third book I am about to read now, after which, I am going to have to be patient until Mr. Goodwin writes another.
    Report
  • Mag Beate Hauer
    5.0 out of 5 stars A page-turner
    Reviewed in Germany on October 30, 2022
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    When I got the book I couldn't stop reading it. I got involved to the point that I'd liked to join Maddie and her team helping to find the killer. A strongly recommend this book!
    Report
  • Bernadette
    5.0 out of 5 stars A captivating read
    Reviewed in Australia on February 2, 2025
    Format: KindleVerified Purchase
    I love Nathan Dylan Goodwin's books. This one particularly held my attention, maybe because of the pandemic that we have all endured, which made the story more real. Looking forward to the next book.
    Report

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