Crime fiction character resonates with readers

In the crime fiction realm, author Patricia Cornwell's fame may be surpassed only by her brainchild and longtime heroine, forensics expert Kay Scarpetta.

In Flesh and Blood, Cornwell's 22nd Scarpetta novel since the series began in 1990, Scarpetta tracks a mysterious sniper whose crimes seem tied to her.

The author says she's already begun the next Scarpetta book while juggling other projects, including the crime drama pilot Angie Steele for CBS television.