The Killing Stones - Ann Cleeves

 The Killing Stones - Ann Cleeves

Pub. Date: Sept. 30, 2025

She read

Detective Jimmy Perez, formerly employed in Shetland, now resides and works in Orkney, a remote area off the coast of Scotland. He lives with his partner, Willow, and their young son. Willow had been his boss, but is now on maternity leave, preparing to give birth to their second child.

On a cold and blustery night, Jimmy’s good friend, Archie, is found bludgeoned to death, the weapon being one of two a historic stones missing from the Heritage Center. Willow steps in to assist, concerned that Jimmy is too close to the victim and possible suspects.

I have read and enjoyed several selections from Ann Cleeves’ Two Rivers and Vera Stanhope series, but somehow have missed the Shetland/Jimmy Perez series. This is my first one and it does work as a stand alone.

This cleverly plotted police procedural is well-written and features unique, colorful characters. It is not a fast read, but the heightened tension as the story progressed drew me in; I couldn’t put it down until I reached the denouement. 

Cleeves’ evocative descriptions of the claustrophobic isolated island life and fickle Scottish weather, along with a bit of the history of the area create a strong sense of place. The relationship between Jimmy and Willow is intriguing as they navigate around unsaid thoughts, and I eagerly anticipate the next installment to see how they progress. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @StMartinsPress @minotaur_Books for the DRC.

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