Aug 30, 2025

The Killing Stones A Detective Jimmy Perez Novel by Ann Cleeves

Hello my bookish friends,

The Killing Stones A Detective Jimmy Perez Novel by Ann Cleeves   I am a huge fan of Ann Cleeves writing and British mysteries and this did not let me down

The Killing Stones marks the eagerly awaited return of Ann Cleeves' beloved detectives from the Shetland series, and a gripping new investigation with a stunning new setting, from the New York Times bestselling author and creator of three iconic detectives beloved in TV and print: DI Jimmy Perez (the Shetland series), DI Vera Stanhope, and DI Matthew Venn (The Long Call).

It's been several years since Detective Jimmy Perez left Shetland. He has settled into his new home in Orkney, the group of islands, off the northern coast of Scotland, with his partner Willow Reeve and their growing family. One stormy winter night, his oldest and closest friend, Archie Stout, goes missing. Ever the detective, Perez catches a boat to the island of Westray, where Archie worked as a farmer and lived with his wife and children.

But when he arrives he finds a shocking scene: Archie's body, on an archaeological dig site and an ancient Westray story stone with precise spirals carved into it beside him, the clear murder weapon. The artifact, taken from a nearby museum, seems to suggest a premediated murder.

But Perez is so close to the case that he struggles to maintain an objective distance from the potential suspects. He finds it difficult to question Archie's wife, whom he's known for years. Rumors swirl about the dead man's relationship with a young woman new to the island, an artist. With each new lead, the case becomes more twisted and Perez wonders if he will ever find out what happened in his friend's final days.

Ann Cleeves's latest Jimmy Perez novel is an absorbing and atmospheric read, set against the stunning backdrop of the Orkney Islands. When Jimmy's close friend Archie Stout is murdered, Jimmy and his partner Willow Reeve embark on a complex investigation.

Archie's character is masterfully crafted - a spirited, mercurial individual beloved by his family and community, yet with secrets and a troubled past. Jimmy's personal connection to the victim adds depth to the story, and his partnership with Willow is showcased beautifully.

The plot is twisty and engaging, with multiple leads and suspects keeping me guessing. Although I had a suspicion about the killer's identity early on, the journey was full of surprises and challenges that kept me invested. Following the clues was satisfying, and Cleeves's writing made the story feel immersive and authentic. A compelling read that showcases Cleeves's mastery of the genre! 

I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from the publisher and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.


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