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Scott Jericho #2
Jericho's Dead
Detective Scott Jericho returns in Jericho's Dead, the second gripping crime thriller by William Hussey.
Former CID detective Scott Jericho is done with murder. Done with puzzles. Done with the dark rage that seems to haunt him.
That is until a vicious serial killer targets someone close to him.
Now Jericho is back, his thirst for justice remorseless.
But time is running out. Fortune tellers and psychics are being slaughtered and everything points to a link with a live TV event due to be broadcast on Halloween night. But what is the significance of the macabre wax effigies found at every crime scene? Why is celebrity psychic Darrel Everwood convinced he will die in four days time? And is Jericho's lover Harry really involved in the murders?
As a startling truth is revealed and an old enemy re-emerges, a murder beyond imagining is about to be come the media event of the century...
Former CID detective Scott Jericho is done with murder. Done with puzzles. Done with the dark rage that seems to haunt him.
That is until a vicious serial killer targets someone close to him.
Now Jericho is back, his thirst for justice remorseless.
But time is running out. Fortune tellers and psychics are being slaughtered and everything points to a link with a live TV event due to be broadcast on Halloween night. But what is the significance of the macabre wax effigies found at every crime scene? Why is celebrity psychic Darrel Everwood convinced he will die in four days time? And is Jericho's lover Harry really involved in the murders?
As a startling truth is revealed and an old enemy re-emerges, a murder beyond imagining is about to be come the media event of the century...
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 29, 2024
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February 2, 2024
Scott Jericho #2
Detective Scott Jericho is back, yay! Except now he’s a former detective, having been drummed out of the force after an altercation with a far right thug murder suspect. He’s back at his fairground roots at Jericho Fairs owned by his father, and he’s trying to get back on his feet post-prison sentence. He’s struggling though, after a downward spiral of self pity and some considerable strain in his relationship with a fantastic Haz (Harry). Maybe a series of bizarre murders will bring him back to life? It all starts with celebrated psychic Darrel Everwood, who is due to appear in a live seance at Purley Rectory, allegedly the most haunted house in England. It’s a televised project in collaboration with Jericho Fairs and due to be broadcast on Halloween. However, Darrel, who has made a fortune from his claim that he communes with ghosts, is certain that he will die in four days time. Not only that, it seems that Scott’s ex boss, former DCI Pete Garris hasn’t gone away, in fact, he’s only temporarily dormant.
Once this gets going it’s a cracking and immersive read. I can entirely see what the author is trying to do at the start of the book in filling in gaps for readers who may not have read the brilliant first instalment, “Killing Jericho” but it makes the book feel a little bit stop start. Once the scene setting and the background is out of the way, we’re well and truly up and running!
First of all, as I do for book one, I love the fairground setting with the traveller community being central, which are described so vividly and with obvious affection. Here we have colourful, larger than life characters, the fascinating traditions, and traveller language, such as joskins (non-travellers), juks (dogs) and chavvies (young travellers). The timeframe in and around Halloween, obviously lends itself to additional atmosphere and there are some excellent descriptions so scenes are visualised in full technicolour.
Scott Jericho is one of the most fascinating, detectives in current mystery thrillers and kudos to the author for his authentic creation. He is very complex, complicated and troubled. He’s also intuitive, he feels things deeply and takes things to heart. The situation with Garris is always there, it’s like a festering sore, and that story still has a mile or two to go. His relationship with Harry is the best thing in his life, but it suffers this time and you feel Scott’s pain. If you like your central characters to be a bit different, perhaps even a little bit rough and ready, then you’ll like this series.
As for the storyline it’s a definite wow. Right from the start there are sinister undertones with superstitions, mediums and séances, tarot cards, folk magic, poppets and witchcraft versus the fanatical sceptics led by Dr Joseph Gillespie. The plot becomes increasingly horrifying with the police enquiry being led by the immensely likeable DCI Thomas Tallis. It seems even his and Scott’s intelligent inquiries can’t halt a series of murders, one of which strikes close to home, and which later brings Scott face-to-face with a blast from his past that he’d rather forget. Things begin to link and connect with several plot twists and turns along the way, leading to a surprising and very dramatic conclusion, which I thoroughly enjoy.
Overall, this is a worthy second novel and can’t wait to see what happens to Scott next. I have a feeling that it won’t be good, I just hope he’s recovered from the injuries of this one first. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bonnier Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Detective Scott Jericho is back, yay! Except now he’s a former detective, having been drummed out of the force after an altercation with a far right thug murder suspect. He’s back at his fairground roots at Jericho Fairs owned by his father, and he’s trying to get back on his feet post-prison sentence. He’s struggling though, after a downward spiral of self pity and some considerable strain in his relationship with a fantastic Haz (Harry). Maybe a series of bizarre murders will bring him back to life? It all starts with celebrated psychic Darrel Everwood, who is due to appear in a live seance at Purley Rectory, allegedly the most haunted house in England. It’s a televised project in collaboration with Jericho Fairs and due to be broadcast on Halloween. However, Darrel, who has made a fortune from his claim that he communes with ghosts, is certain that he will die in four days time. Not only that, it seems that Scott’s ex boss, former DCI Pete Garris hasn’t gone away, in fact, he’s only temporarily dormant.
Once this gets going it’s a cracking and immersive read. I can entirely see what the author is trying to do at the start of the book in filling in gaps for readers who may not have read the brilliant first instalment, “Killing Jericho” but it makes the book feel a little bit stop start. Once the scene setting and the background is out of the way, we’re well and truly up and running!
First of all, as I do for book one, I love the fairground setting with the traveller community being central, which are described so vividly and with obvious affection. Here we have colourful, larger than life characters, the fascinating traditions, and traveller language, such as joskins (non-travellers), juks (dogs) and chavvies (young travellers). The timeframe in and around Halloween, obviously lends itself to additional atmosphere and there are some excellent descriptions so scenes are visualised in full technicolour.
Scott Jericho is one of the most fascinating, detectives in current mystery thrillers and kudos to the author for his authentic creation. He is very complex, complicated and troubled. He’s also intuitive, he feels things deeply and takes things to heart. The situation with Garris is always there, it’s like a festering sore, and that story still has a mile or two to go. His relationship with Harry is the best thing in his life, but it suffers this time and you feel Scott’s pain. If you like your central characters to be a bit different, perhaps even a little bit rough and ready, then you’ll like this series.
As for the storyline it’s a definite wow. Right from the start there are sinister undertones with superstitions, mediums and séances, tarot cards, folk magic, poppets and witchcraft versus the fanatical sceptics led by Dr Joseph Gillespie. The plot becomes increasingly horrifying with the police enquiry being led by the immensely likeable DCI Thomas Tallis. It seems even his and Scott’s intelligent inquiries can’t halt a series of murders, one of which strikes close to home, and which later brings Scott face-to-face with a blast from his past that he’d rather forget. Things begin to link and connect with several plot twists and turns along the way, leading to a surprising and very dramatic conclusion, which I thoroughly enjoy.
Overall, this is a worthy second novel and can’t wait to see what happens to Scott next. I have a feeling that it won’t be good, I just hope he’s recovered from the injuries of this one first. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Bonnier Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 4, 2024
I'm afraid that what attracts people to the Jericho novels, i.e., Scott Jericho, is exactly what turns me off. I find this overly aggressive, macho ex-detective really irritating. I know he has "reasons" for being this way but I find this "don't mess with me/ you wouldn't like me when I'm angry/Danny Dyer" clone just a bit too much of a caricature. Throw in him being an ex-detective, ex-traveller (now back to traveller), bouncer but gay and in love with a kind, green-eyed, handsome guy that everyone loves, and I think you've ticked every box.
I'm also not too keen on very violent, bloody murder mysteries. I guess I would have known this had I managed to finish the first book (Killing Jericho). And I'll say one thing to anyone who wants to read this as a stand-alone - it gives away the end of Killing Jericho so read that first.
However I listened to the audio (which I often find helpful if I'm struggling with the prose style) and it is extremely well read by Damian Lynch who didn't make it melodramatic and made a good distinction between the various characters. He has a pleasant voice to listen to and I enjoyed that (if not the content) very much.
The story itself revolves around the psychic community as a prominent celebrity medium builds up to a show on Halloween. He fears for his life and won't say why but he is being hounded by various secular and religious types who call him a fraud. However, before he even begins, there are other deaths that show all the hallmarks of a killer on a mission to bring down all psychics.
The end was, for me, a bit of a letdown. The explanation of the crime was so incredibly long and detailed that I drifted off, but if you're someone who dislikes any loose ends, you'll enjoy it.
Simply not for me.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Bonnier UK Audio for the excellent audio advance review copy.
I'm also not too keen on very violent, bloody murder mysteries. I guess I would have known this had I managed to finish the first book (Killing Jericho). And I'll say one thing to anyone who wants to read this as a stand-alone - it gives away the end of Killing Jericho so read that first.
However I listened to the audio (which I often find helpful if I'm struggling with the prose style) and it is extremely well read by Damian Lynch who didn't make it melodramatic and made a good distinction between the various characters. He has a pleasant voice to listen to and I enjoyed that (if not the content) very much.
The story itself revolves around the psychic community as a prominent celebrity medium builds up to a show on Halloween. He fears for his life and won't say why but he is being hounded by various secular and religious types who call him a fraud. However, before he even begins, there are other deaths that show all the hallmarks of a killer on a mission to bring down all psychics.
The end was, for me, a bit of a letdown. The explanation of the crime was so incredibly long and detailed that I drifted off, but if you're someone who dislikes any loose ends, you'll enjoy it.
Simply not for me.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Bonnier UK Audio for the excellent audio advance review copy.
February 4, 2024
I absolutely loved Killing Jericho, William Hussey's crime fiction debut, and especially the book's lead character, Scott Jericho. He was a troubled wee soul, still is to be fair, but there was just something surprisingly charismatic about this flawed, disgraced former Detective, and his story and unique ability to read people and situations drew me right in. Jericho's Dead, book two in the series, has been one of my most anticipated reads of this year and it did not disappoint.
So what makes Scott's ability to read folks so unique? Well, not only was he a Detective, a career which required him to be a touch more observant than your average Joe on the street, but he is also part of the Traveller community. If there was a better collective of people with an ability to read people and situations at pace, I can't think of it, and Scott Jericho is one of the best. Does he always get it perfectly right? No - no one is superhuman, as some poor unfortunate souls will find out to their cost during the course of the book, but he has a better instinct than most and a real sense of justice. You might find that strange given the reason he is no longer a Detective, but when you dog deeper into that particular mistake, it comes from a very honest, if reactive, place.
I really like Scott Jericho. I like that he's far from perfect, that he makes mistakes, particularly in his personal life it seems, and that he fights a constant battle with his demons which he mostly wins. He is plagued with guilt - it haunts him - but it doesn't stop him. He loves a puzzle and he is an honourable man for whom family comes first. And family in this community goes well beyond the bloodline between him and his father. William Hussey has done a brilliant job in bringing the Traveller community to life in a way that gives us some insight into their lives, the language, the loyalty and the hard work that they put in whilst all the time battling judgment and discrimination. He doesn't try to make out that everything is perfect, but neither is it as bad as the negative headlines that many would associate with the name Traveller.
As for this particular investigation, it's a dark one and one that cuts right to the heart of the Jericho Fair. Someone is targeting Mediums, those who claim to have a direct link to the deceased. The whole case revolves around a high profile Television personality who is set to broadcast a Hallowe'en special from one of the 'most haunted' buildings in Britain. It becomes a battle of science over superstition and as well as there being a creepy undercurrent to the whole case, the setting and season add an atmospheric vibe to the whole story. Add in links to tarot, voodoo (of a sort) , and some very violent methods of dispatch, and it is the kind of story that completely drew me in and appealed to my strangely macabre sense of intrigue. I do love a touch of horror and the occult, and the edginess of the case really worked for me.
This is no regular killer, and William Hussey served up no end of suspects too, with bereaved families, scientists hell bent on proving the whole thing to be an elaborate sham, and faces from Scott's past who have somewhat suspect views on justice and proportionality when it comes to provoking a reaction. It kept me guessing to just the right moment, my epiphany coming at exactly the same time as it hit Scott in the book. Maybe a step or two ahead of the reveal, but just soon enough to make me smugly happy. The ending of the book ... well that was a shocker. Probably just as well that Most Haunted was never under such fierce scrutiny or targeting or OFCOM would have been swamped. Didn't see that one coming at all.
Now it's not all bleak and grim happenings in this book, there is a surprisingly emotional side too. For anyone who has read book one, you'll know the rollercoaster Scott went on with regards to his personal life. Things between him and Haz are not all sweetness and light this time around either, but this provides a much needed distraction from the darkness for the reader, but also an effective distraction from the investigation for Scott. The balance is just right, the effect on Scott and his concentration feeding into the story. Then we have newcomer, DCI Tallis, who makes a brilliant 'partner' (after a fashion) for Scott as the investigation progresses, and the camaraderies between the two is a real highlight of the book.
Given the blinder that the author has pulled right at the end of the book I cannot wait to see what comes next. Poor Scott deserves a bit of a break, but I very much doubt he's going to get one. To be honest, that's probably just the way I'm going to like it. Definitely recommended.
So what makes Scott's ability to read folks so unique? Well, not only was he a Detective, a career which required him to be a touch more observant than your average Joe on the street, but he is also part of the Traveller community. If there was a better collective of people with an ability to read people and situations at pace, I can't think of it, and Scott Jericho is one of the best. Does he always get it perfectly right? No - no one is superhuman, as some poor unfortunate souls will find out to their cost during the course of the book, but he has a better instinct than most and a real sense of justice. You might find that strange given the reason he is no longer a Detective, but when you dog deeper into that particular mistake, it comes from a very honest, if reactive, place.
I really like Scott Jericho. I like that he's far from perfect, that he makes mistakes, particularly in his personal life it seems, and that he fights a constant battle with his demons which he mostly wins. He is plagued with guilt - it haunts him - but it doesn't stop him. He loves a puzzle and he is an honourable man for whom family comes first. And family in this community goes well beyond the bloodline between him and his father. William Hussey has done a brilliant job in bringing the Traveller community to life in a way that gives us some insight into their lives, the language, the loyalty and the hard work that they put in whilst all the time battling judgment and discrimination. He doesn't try to make out that everything is perfect, but neither is it as bad as the negative headlines that many would associate with the name Traveller.
As for this particular investigation, it's a dark one and one that cuts right to the heart of the Jericho Fair. Someone is targeting Mediums, those who claim to have a direct link to the deceased. The whole case revolves around a high profile Television personality who is set to broadcast a Hallowe'en special from one of the 'most haunted' buildings in Britain. It becomes a battle of science over superstition and as well as there being a creepy undercurrent to the whole case, the setting and season add an atmospheric vibe to the whole story. Add in links to tarot, voodoo (of a sort) , and some very violent methods of dispatch, and it is the kind of story that completely drew me in and appealed to my strangely macabre sense of intrigue. I do love a touch of horror and the occult, and the edginess of the case really worked for me.
This is no regular killer, and William Hussey served up no end of suspects too, with bereaved families, scientists hell bent on proving the whole thing to be an elaborate sham, and faces from Scott's past who have somewhat suspect views on justice and proportionality when it comes to provoking a reaction. It kept me guessing to just the right moment, my epiphany coming at exactly the same time as it hit Scott in the book. Maybe a step or two ahead of the reveal, but just soon enough to make me smugly happy. The ending of the book ... well that was a shocker. Probably just as well that Most Haunted was never under such fierce scrutiny or targeting or OFCOM would have been swamped. Didn't see that one coming at all.
Now it's not all bleak and grim happenings in this book, there is a surprisingly emotional side too. For anyone who has read book one, you'll know the rollercoaster Scott went on with regards to his personal life. Things between him and Haz are not all sweetness and light this time around either, but this provides a much needed distraction from the darkness for the reader, but also an effective distraction from the investigation for Scott. The balance is just right, the effect on Scott and his concentration feeding into the story. Then we have newcomer, DCI Tallis, who makes a brilliant 'partner' (after a fashion) for Scott as the investigation progresses, and the camaraderies between the two is a real highlight of the book.
Given the blinder that the author has pulled right at the end of the book I cannot wait to see what comes next. Poor Scott deserves a bit of a break, but I very much doubt he's going to get one. To be honest, that's probably just the way I'm going to like it. Definitely recommended.
February 26, 2024
This is a great crime thriller.
Jericho is devastated when someone close to him is murdered and is determined to find her killer.
The Detective in charge of the case tells Jericho to leave the investigations to him but soon realises he can’t stop him.
The killer seems to be targeting psychics and with a live show due to air in a few days near Jericho’s fair, tensions are high.
Jericho speaks to the family of a psychic who was murdered and soon starts to come across more leads to help him find the killer.
I really like Jericho’s character and look forward to seeing what’s next for him.
Thanks to Bonnier Books UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
Jericho is devastated when someone close to him is murdered and is determined to find her killer.
The Detective in charge of the case tells Jericho to leave the investigations to him but soon realises he can’t stop him.
The killer seems to be targeting psychics and with a live show due to air in a few days near Jericho’s fair, tensions are high.
Jericho speaks to the family of a psychic who was murdered and soon starts to come across more leads to help him find the killer.
I really like Jericho’s character and look forward to seeing what’s next for him.
Thanks to Bonnier Books UK and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
June 19, 2024
Serial killer vibes hunting fortune tellers? I’m in! I really enjoyed the first in this series, it felt a little different than your usual crime thrillers. This was the same. I enjoy Scott Jericho, former police, turned criminal who was sent to prison for going road on a suspect. Now disgraced he’s finding himself and those around him in danger. After a close family member, a psychic/fortune teller is murdered and a little extra figure left at the scene, he’s on the hunt for this gruesome killer. I felt that pace differed from time to time; slow, moderate, & fast but the storyline was fun, thrilling, and clever. Definitely onboard the Jericho train and eagerly await our next stop!!
March 16, 2025
This one was a little more convoluted than book one, with more personal wrangling from Jericho about his relationship with Harry, who’s absent for a lot of the story. Not quite as engaging, but still an enjoyable read.
May 10, 2024
A wonderfully refreshing and different thriller. It's not often I find myself thinking about fictional characters when I'm not reading a book. But whenever I put this down, Scott and Harry lingered in my mind.
The crime plot is dark and creepy, and this is nicely balanced against the personal relationships in Scott's life. There are moments of heartache and beauty that took my breath away.
The crime plot is dark and creepy, and this is nicely balanced against the personal relationships in Scott's life. There are moments of heartache and beauty that took my breath away.
March 27, 2024
Thanks to Zaffre Books, William Hussey and NetGalley for the ARC; this is my unbiased review.
Jericho's Dead by William Hussey
Zaffre Books, 29th February 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Synopsis:
Former CID detective Scott Jericho is done with murder. Done with puzzles. Done with the dark rage that seems to haunt him ... until a vicious serial killer targets someone close to him.
Now Jericho is back, his thirst for justice remorseless. But time is running out. Fortune tellers and psychics are being slaughtered, and everything points to a link with a live TV event due to be broadcast on Halloween night.
As a startling truth is revealed and an old enemy re-emerges, a murder beyond imagining is about to become the media event of the century.
Review:
In Scott Jericho, William Hussey has created a unique, revelatory character who is quickly becoming a favourite among early reviewers, fellow authors and readers alike.
This second outing for the Traveller sleuth is shrouded in mystery, as unknown forces assail psychics and fortune tellers, the tale told in the author's inimitable way. With plenty of shocks and bombshells, Jericho throws himself into the case, and I felt like I walked beside him, consuming each and every piece of the puzzle, desperately trying to work out what was happening.
Jericho is so emotionally flawed, but so genuinely likeable, and that has everything to do with the way he was conceived. William Hussey should be applauded, and his books added to every reader's wishlist.
Jericho's Dead by William Hussey
Zaffre Books, 29th February 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Synopsis:
Former CID detective Scott Jericho is done with murder. Done with puzzles. Done with the dark rage that seems to haunt him ... until a vicious serial killer targets someone close to him.
Now Jericho is back, his thirst for justice remorseless. But time is running out. Fortune tellers and psychics are being slaughtered, and everything points to a link with a live TV event due to be broadcast on Halloween night.
As a startling truth is revealed and an old enemy re-emerges, a murder beyond imagining is about to become the media event of the century.
Review:
In Scott Jericho, William Hussey has created a unique, revelatory character who is quickly becoming a favourite among early reviewers, fellow authors and readers alike.
This second outing for the Traveller sleuth is shrouded in mystery, as unknown forces assail psychics and fortune tellers, the tale told in the author's inimitable way. With plenty of shocks and bombshells, Jericho throws himself into the case, and I felt like I walked beside him, consuming each and every piece of the puzzle, desperately trying to work out what was happening.
Jericho is so emotionally flawed, but so genuinely likeable, and that has everything to do with the way he was conceived. William Hussey should be applauded, and his books added to every reader's wishlist.
July 27, 2024
Engaging and unique, the second outing of former police officer Jericho is easily enjoyed whether you're already familiar with Hussey's fairground traveller/petty criminal turned former cop character or, completely new to the series like me.
Having returned to his fairground family, having been released from prison, Jericho is trying to rebuild his life and former relationships while trying to decide what the future may hold. When a series of murders see one of his own being killed, Jericho is quickly embroiled in a battle to determine who is behind the crimes, while also having to grapple with former enemies and secrets from his past, some which could damage his future.
A very interesting take on police procedural crime, this is a delightful read and expertly cast audiobook. I think this is a series which will definitely be added to my crime reading list.
Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me access to the audiobook.
Having returned to his fairground family, having been released from prison, Jericho is trying to rebuild his life and former relationships while trying to decide what the future may hold. When a series of murders see one of his own being killed, Jericho is quickly embroiled in a battle to determine who is behind the crimes, while also having to grapple with former enemies and secrets from his past, some which could damage his future.
A very interesting take on police procedural crime, this is a delightful read and expertly cast audiobook. I think this is a series which will definitely be added to my crime reading list.
Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me access to the audiobook.
April 14, 2024
After the events in Killing Jericho, Scott is now living at the fairground with Hars, surrounded by people who love him and care about him. Everything should be fine, right? And yet... something isn't right between him and Hars. Scott's having nightmares, unable to cope with what happened at the end of the first book. And, added to that, the fair needs a good Halloween to keep things looking up. So Scott's father has made a deal to set the fair at Purley Rectory, apparently, the most haunted house in England, where Darrel Everwood, a TV psychic, is due to appear in a live seance. And with Darrek Everwood comes his bodyguard, someone from one of the darkest moments in Scott's past.
And then, the murders happen. Horrible murders bleed into the fair when the old fortune teller, Scott's mom's old friend, is murdered, too.
Adding to that, Pete Garris is still around, phoning his father and offering to help. Scott is spending money that he really doesn't have to keep track of his actions. And when Scott faces him, Garris holds the audio of his drunken confession about Harry's mercy killing of his father over his head.
The book is fascinating because Scott Jericho is fascinating, because the setting is fascinating and because the case is dark, twisting and so well plotted. I didn't expect that ending but once it was explained it made perfect sense.
What can I say? I can't wait for the next book in this series.
And then, the murders happen. Horrible murders bleed into the fair when the old fortune teller, Scott's mom's old friend, is murdered, too.
Adding to that, Pete Garris is still around, phoning his father and offering to help. Scott is spending money that he really doesn't have to keep track of his actions. And when Scott faces him, Garris holds the audio of his drunken confession about Harry's mercy killing of his father over his head.
The book is fascinating because Scott Jericho is fascinating, because the setting is fascinating and because the case is dark, twisting and so well plotted. I didn't expect that ending but once it was explained it made perfect sense.
What can I say? I can't wait for the next book in this series.
February 23, 2024
This is a brilliant sequel to Killing Jericho and I actually liked this one better. This time the murders are a lot closer to home for Scott and he fights to stay in control while also figuring out the case along side the help of another detective Tallis. I liked how this story related to 'witches' and brought another layer of complexity to the plot and I just really liked being back with Scott again as he tries to deal with more than just the murders.
* I received a copy from netgalley and I leave this review voluntarily *
* I received a copy from netgalley and I leave this review voluntarily *
March 12, 2024
Jericho's Dead didn't grab me the same way that Killing Jericho (Scott Jericho #1) did. This wasn't a bad novel on the whole, but it felt forced in places - I didn't buy into it. The best parts of the novel were the all too rare interactions between Jericho and Garris - there was a real Clarice and Lector vibe off those moments. If there is a scott Jericho #3, then, for me, Garris has to play a bigger role!
Would I recommend this book? If you've read Killing Jericho, then yes, you should read this sequel, but I'm not entirely sure that you need to.
Would I recommend this book? If you've read Killing Jericho, then yes, you should read this sequel, but I'm not entirely sure that you need to.
August 6, 2024
Loved this
Well, I loved Jericho’s dead even more than the first book ! I found the story of physics and sceptics very interesting and the whole atmosphere of the book so believable. Theres always a lot going on, sub plots etc.
A great read for Halloween.
Well, I loved Jericho’s dead even more than the first book ! I found the story of physics and sceptics very interesting and the whole atmosphere of the book so believable. Theres always a lot going on, sub plots etc.
A great read for Halloween.
May 27, 2024
In the second installment of William Hussey's Scott Jericho series, our eponymous hero is trying to move on from the horrifying events of his first outing, focusing on his rekindled relationship with his boyfriend, Harry, and on re-establishing himself as an integral part of his father's travelling fair. Naturally, it doesn't take long for him to become embroiled in a serial killer's twisted puzzle, and when someone close to him is targeted, Jericho will stop at nothing in his quest for justice.
As I wrote in my review of Killing Jericho (Scott Jericho #1), Hussey has created an exciting, original protagonist in Scott Jericho - a gay, disgraced former CID detective who grew up in the community of travelling showmen who make their living by visiting towns with their collection of rides, stalls and foot outlets. Famously insular, the showman culture still cultivates a certain mystique, and generates a fair amount of prejudice and ignorance from the settled community.
The setting is unique, and Hussey really sells us on the tight knit, fiercely loyal community. As in the first entry in the series, he does an excellent job of bringing the vibrant context of the travelling fair and its populace to life, and of celebrating its rich history and the unique bond its members share.
Cultural specificity is always important when writing a novel with such a particular context, but it does at times feel forced and disrupts the flow of the story. When I listened to Jericho's Dead, I had just finished Kevin Kwan's Crazy Rich Asians, a novel peppered with words and phrases in Cantonese, Hokkien and Malay which are unobtrusively footnoted. In contrast, having Jericho translate the showman vernacular for his joskin boyfriend is not the smooth device the author thinks it is. [HARRY, A JOSKIN IS THE NAME WE USE FOR A SETTLED PERSON WHO IS NOT A SHOWMAN.] On a related note, everyone in this novel uses 'traveller' synonymously with showman, which I found odd given that in my own experience - my dad's family have been showmen for generations - the community tends to be at pains to distance themselves from English and Irish Travellers and the negative sterotypes commonly attributed to these groups.
The subtext is very much the text at the beginning of the book, with Hussey ensuring that readers cannot possibily misconstrue the demons Jericho is currently wrestling with:
'If he meant harm to me or my people then he would pay, not only for his sins but for my own. My inability to save the innocent victims of Bradbury End; my complicity in the final murder that had occurred there; my guilt at not seeing my old boss Peter Garris for the monster he truly was; my now faltering relationship with Harry; all of it.'
Once this has all been established, the story really gets going, and it's a nicely-paced, engaging mystery with a slew of intriguing potential suspects intertwining to keep the reader on the hook. We are also introduced to some new characters who fill in more of Jericho's back story, which helps him to feel like a more substantial, developed character than in the first book. The prose feels more subtle and less overwritten than in Killing Jericho as well, with only one line making me laugh out loud it was so ludicrous - 'That still bleeding face, red and slick as a freshly dipped toffee apple', in case you're wondering. There are some preposterous leaps of logic to propel the plot which really require the reader to suspend their disbelief, as well as some utterly implausible interactions between Jericho and the police DCI investigating the murders, but Hussey delivers a solid ending which is at once surprising and makes perfect sense, and which sets up the next installment perfectly.
I listened to the audiobook of this title and really enjoyed the narrator, Damian Lynch, who adeptly captures a range of characters, including preening TV psychic Darrel Everwood, a pompous professional sceptic Dr Joseph Gillespie, the salt-of-the-earth showmen, a menacing mobster and a selection of well-bred old ladies.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier UK Audio for the opportunity to listen to and review an ARC of this book.
As I wrote in my review of Killing Jericho (Scott Jericho #1), Hussey has created an exciting, original protagonist in Scott Jericho - a gay, disgraced former CID detective who grew up in the community of travelling showmen who make their living by visiting towns with their collection of rides, stalls and foot outlets. Famously insular, the showman culture still cultivates a certain mystique, and generates a fair amount of prejudice and ignorance from the settled community.
The setting is unique, and Hussey really sells us on the tight knit, fiercely loyal community. As in the first entry in the series, he does an excellent job of bringing the vibrant context of the travelling fair and its populace to life, and of celebrating its rich history and the unique bond its members share.
Cultural specificity is always important when writing a novel with such a particular context, but it does at times feel forced and disrupts the flow of the story. When I listened to Jericho's Dead, I had just finished Kevin Kwan's Crazy Rich Asians, a novel peppered with words and phrases in Cantonese, Hokkien and Malay which are unobtrusively footnoted. In contrast, having Jericho translate the showman vernacular for his joskin boyfriend is not the smooth device the author thinks it is. [HARRY, A JOSKIN IS THE NAME WE USE FOR A SETTLED PERSON WHO IS NOT A SHOWMAN.] On a related note, everyone in this novel uses 'traveller' synonymously with showman, which I found odd given that in my own experience - my dad's family have been showmen for generations - the community tends to be at pains to distance themselves from English and Irish Travellers and the negative sterotypes commonly attributed to these groups.
The subtext is very much the text at the beginning of the book, with Hussey ensuring that readers cannot possibily misconstrue the demons Jericho is currently wrestling with:
'If he meant harm to me or my people then he would pay, not only for his sins but for my own. My inability to save the innocent victims of Bradbury End; my complicity in the final murder that had occurred there; my guilt at not seeing my old boss Peter Garris for the monster he truly was; my now faltering relationship with Harry; all of it.'
Once this has all been established, the story really gets going, and it's a nicely-paced, engaging mystery with a slew of intriguing potential suspects intertwining to keep the reader on the hook. We are also introduced to some new characters who fill in more of Jericho's back story, which helps him to feel like a more substantial, developed character than in the first book. The prose feels more subtle and less overwritten than in Killing Jericho as well, with only one line making me laugh out loud it was so ludicrous - 'That still bleeding face, red and slick as a freshly dipped toffee apple', in case you're wondering. There are some preposterous leaps of logic to propel the plot which really require the reader to suspend their disbelief, as well as some utterly implausible interactions between Jericho and the police DCI investigating the murders, but Hussey delivers a solid ending which is at once surprising and makes perfect sense, and which sets up the next installment perfectly.
I listened to the audiobook of this title and really enjoyed the narrator, Damian Lynch, who adeptly captures a range of characters, including preening TV psychic Darrel Everwood, a pompous professional sceptic Dr Joseph Gillespie, the salt-of-the-earth showmen, a menacing mobster and a selection of well-bred old ladies.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier UK Audio for the opportunity to listen to and review an ARC of this book.
February 28, 2024
A most welcome return for Scott Jericho, a traveller whose past is set to haunt him. After the conclusion of Killing Jericho, Scott and his partner Harry have settled into the fair, with Harry gaining their trust and affection of most of the fairground’s travellers. But there’s something not quite right with this pair; the frays are showing. Harry is taciturn, Scott’s hardly loquacious at the best of times and Scott thinks Harry is drifting away.
But Scott has other things on his mind too and he can’t afford to put Harry front and centre at the moment. The fair has come to the Purley Hall, the most haunted house in England, where they are adding atmosphere and crowds at Hallowe’en to the appearance of celebrated TV personality, psychic Darrel Everwood , there to do a live televised appearance.
But this event has also caused controversy. There is a Priest who is out to ensure the event does not go ahead, warning of dire consequences that may befall unbelievers. A distraught couple are haunted by what Darrel Everwood said to them and blame him for their despair.
And someone is targeting those who claim to have psychic abilities. It’s not long before murder occurs and with it overtures of voodoo, witchcraft and menace. Against the setting of a haunted house surrounded by woods, the whole thing has a ghostly, scary atmosphere. The first murder is macabre; violent and horribly brutal.
Then Scott finds a symbol that warns him that the fair’s fortune teller, beloved by the Jericho family, is under threat. And the murders don’t stop there.
Darrel Everwood believes he he will die on the night of the broadcast while around him the battle rages between those who believe and those who are fiercely sceptical.
DCI Thomas Tallis is in charge of the murder investigations. A calm and rational man, he makes a good foil to Scott, recognising that he can’t stop him conducting his own enquiries, but making sure he keeps Tallis in the loop.
Scott is also paying to keep tabs on Pete Garris, a man who used to be his friend and confidant and who now wields a secret that Scott told him about Harry and uses it to poke Scott like a bear in a cage.
William Hussey creates a wonderfully vivid picture of life in the traveller’s fairground community. The rich language, the feeling of a community looking out for each other and the need to be loyal are what stands out. For Scott, who is a man often filled with rage, this is his home and these are his people and being with them adds stability to his life.
Now though, the fair and its surroundings are full of threats, violence and drama. Scott is investigating and it brings him back to a place he never wanted to be again; seeing some old faces who have a lesson or two to teach him, as well as leaving him owing a favour.
Verdict: William Hussey has written an outstanding, distinctive character in Scott Jericho and Jericho’s Dead is, if anything, better than its predecessor, Killing Jericho, which I recommend you read first for continuity purposes.
The writing is fresh and absolutely immersive. It is very well plotted and left me in awe of the ending which I just did not see coming. Highly recommended.
But Scott has other things on his mind too and he can’t afford to put Harry front and centre at the moment. The fair has come to the Purley Hall, the most haunted house in England, where they are adding atmosphere and crowds at Hallowe’en to the appearance of celebrated TV personality, psychic Darrel Everwood , there to do a live televised appearance.
But this event has also caused controversy. There is a Priest who is out to ensure the event does not go ahead, warning of dire consequences that may befall unbelievers. A distraught couple are haunted by what Darrel Everwood said to them and blame him for their despair.
And someone is targeting those who claim to have psychic abilities. It’s not long before murder occurs and with it overtures of voodoo, witchcraft and menace. Against the setting of a haunted house surrounded by woods, the whole thing has a ghostly, scary atmosphere. The first murder is macabre; violent and horribly brutal.
Then Scott finds a symbol that warns him that the fair’s fortune teller, beloved by the Jericho family, is under threat. And the murders don’t stop there.
Darrel Everwood believes he he will die on the night of the broadcast while around him the battle rages between those who believe and those who are fiercely sceptical.
DCI Thomas Tallis is in charge of the murder investigations. A calm and rational man, he makes a good foil to Scott, recognising that he can’t stop him conducting his own enquiries, but making sure he keeps Tallis in the loop.
Scott is also paying to keep tabs on Pete Garris, a man who used to be his friend and confidant and who now wields a secret that Scott told him about Harry and uses it to poke Scott like a bear in a cage.
William Hussey creates a wonderfully vivid picture of life in the traveller’s fairground community. The rich language, the feeling of a community looking out for each other and the need to be loyal are what stands out. For Scott, who is a man often filled with rage, this is his home and these are his people and being with them adds stability to his life.
Now though, the fair and its surroundings are full of threats, violence and drama. Scott is investigating and it brings him back to a place he never wanted to be again; seeing some old faces who have a lesson or two to teach him, as well as leaving him owing a favour.
Verdict: William Hussey has written an outstanding, distinctive character in Scott Jericho and Jericho’s Dead is, if anything, better than its predecessor, Killing Jericho, which I recommend you read first for continuity purposes.
The writing is fresh and absolutely immersive. It is very well plotted and left me in awe of the ending which I just did not see coming. Highly recommended.
January 7, 2025
*This novel was read and reviewed without reading the first novel*
~ TLDR ~
Done with murder and puzzles, former CID detective and ex prisoner Scott Jericho returns to his roots at the Jericho travelling fair. A series of murders targeting fortune tellers and mediums however, forces him back into his role as detective as he tries to solve the case, while dealing with personal relationships.
~ Summary ~
📖 Plot: Very linear from going clue to clue. The ending is tedious and cliche, with Jericho confronting the killer, detailing exactly how they did it, while the killer just stands and listens - typically do not enjoy this type of conclusion as it always feels long winded.
👤Characters: Jericho himself is an interesting character and I quite enjoyed following his story. However, the side characters involved in the main murder story were uninteresting to me. I didn’t really care about them or what happened to them.
✍️Writing Style: Rich and evocative, though occasionally unnecessarily descriptive. Enjoying the overall tone but not the plot, I'm going to go back to the first novel, as the recapping of it in this novel piqued my interest.
~ Highlights ~
I thoroughly enjoyed the writing style - it’s one which I wanted to continue reading even though the plot was lacking. Jericho is an engaging and rich protagonist - with a lot of characteristics standing out from the typical detective.
The setting is unique and looks at the culture of travellers.
Damian Lynch does a fantastic job narrating the audiobook. He captures the characters in an immersive way, and although many of the characters felt lackluster, he did a good job of making them unique and real through his voice work.
~ Lowlights~
A lot of the side characters involved in the main story lack dimension and didn’t feel particularly interesting to me. I was more interested in the history of the characters that appear in the first book.
The recapping of and involvement of characters linking back to the first book were far more intriguing to me than the main storyline, and had me wishing I was reading the first novel instead, as I have accidentally started on book 2 first. I am confident that had I already read the first book, I would still be uninterested in this plot - it had the makings of a gripping story, however it somehow fell a bit flat for me.
Jericho’s suspicions of
~ Recommendation ~
For fans of: Crime novel fans looking for a unique protagonist with LGBTQ themes.
Format: Audiobook.
Rating: 3🌟
Thank you Bonier UK Audio for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
~ TLDR ~
Done with murder and puzzles, former CID detective and ex prisoner Scott Jericho returns to his roots at the Jericho travelling fair. A series of murders targeting fortune tellers and mediums however, forces him back into his role as detective as he tries to solve the case, while dealing with personal relationships.
~ Summary ~
📖 Plot: Very linear from going clue to clue. The ending is tedious and cliche, with Jericho confronting the killer, detailing exactly how they did it, while the killer just stands and listens - typically do not enjoy this type of conclusion as it always feels long winded.
👤Characters: Jericho himself is an interesting character and I quite enjoyed following his story. However, the side characters involved in the main murder story were uninteresting to me. I didn’t really care about them or what happened to them.
✍️Writing Style: Rich and evocative, though occasionally unnecessarily descriptive. Enjoying the overall tone but not the plot, I'm going to go back to the first novel, as the recapping of it in this novel piqued my interest.
~ Highlights ~
I thoroughly enjoyed the writing style - it’s one which I wanted to continue reading even though the plot was lacking. Jericho is an engaging and rich protagonist - with a lot of characteristics standing out from the typical detective.
The setting is unique and looks at the culture of travellers.
Damian Lynch does a fantastic job narrating the audiobook. He captures the characters in an immersive way, and although many of the characters felt lackluster, he did a good job of making them unique and real through his voice work.
~ Lowlights~
A lot of the side characters involved in the main story lack dimension and didn’t feel particularly interesting to me. I was more interested in the history of the characters that appear in the first book.
The recapping of and involvement of characters linking back to the first book were far more intriguing to me than the main storyline, and had me wishing I was reading the first novel instead, as I have accidentally started on book 2 first. I am confident that had I already read the first book, I would still be uninterested in this plot - it had the makings of a gripping story, however it somehow fell a bit flat for me.
Jericho’s suspicions of
~ Recommendation ~
For fans of: Crime novel fans looking for a unique protagonist with LGBTQ themes.
Format: Audiobook.
Rating: 3🌟
Thank you Bonier UK Audio for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
February 21, 2024
I would like to thank Netgalley and Bonnier Books UK for an advance copy of Jerich’s Dead, the second novel to feature former detective turned carnival worker Scott Jericho.
Jericho is working at his father’s funfair, which has a tie-in with a live tv event scheduled for Halloween. The presenter, psychic Darrell Everwood, thinks he will be killed, but before the show one of Jericho’s relatives is brutally murdered and she’s not the first psychic to be killed that way. Jericho has a murderer to catch, if he can work out the significance after the wax dolls found beside the bodies.
I thoroughly enjoyed Jericho’s Dead with one proviso. I have not read the previous novel and I felt that I missed quite a bit by that as there are frequent references to past events and characters whose place in his life isn’t quite clear. It made the first few chapters quite confusing. I would urge any reader to read the novels in order.
The novel is in some ways slow to start as the investigation does get started until about a third of the way in. However, the scene setting is necessary to introduce all the characters and establish their agendas. This comes in useful later on when motive and opportunity are examined. I said it was slow on the investigative front initially, but the narrative isn’t slow. It’s lively and introduces some interesting characters and concepts based around belief and psychic ability. I like a good tarot reading and don’t take it seriously, but this takes a look at those who do and offers a good, well rounded assessment.
There are more murders leading up to the big event, and when I say big I mean big. I never saw it coming, due to some clever misdirection from the author. Jericho does his thing suspecting everyone and believing nothing. He gets into some side issues before solving the case. I like the final twist, which again I didn’t see coming. Throughout it all the author maintains a fast pace and some lively dialogue.
The novel is told in the first person from Jericho’s point of view. There are pros and cons to this as he is a troubled man. There is an undercurrent of violence to his personality, both mental and physical and initially I didn’t take to it, but as I got to know him I began to understand it (if I’d only read the previous novel etc.). On the other hand he is a man of action so he’s quick off the mark in his investigating and smart enough to make sense of what he learns. What I would say is that nothing comes easily to him and there always seems to be pain involved.
Jericho’s Dead is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Jericho is working at his father’s funfair, which has a tie-in with a live tv event scheduled for Halloween. The presenter, psychic Darrell Everwood, thinks he will be killed, but before the show one of Jericho’s relatives is brutally murdered and she’s not the first psychic to be killed that way. Jericho has a murderer to catch, if he can work out the significance after the wax dolls found beside the bodies.
I thoroughly enjoyed Jericho’s Dead with one proviso. I have not read the previous novel and I felt that I missed quite a bit by that as there are frequent references to past events and characters whose place in his life isn’t quite clear. It made the first few chapters quite confusing. I would urge any reader to read the novels in order.
The novel is in some ways slow to start as the investigation does get started until about a third of the way in. However, the scene setting is necessary to introduce all the characters and establish their agendas. This comes in useful later on when motive and opportunity are examined. I said it was slow on the investigative front initially, but the narrative isn’t slow. It’s lively and introduces some interesting characters and concepts based around belief and psychic ability. I like a good tarot reading and don’t take it seriously, but this takes a look at those who do and offers a good, well rounded assessment.
There are more murders leading up to the big event, and when I say big I mean big. I never saw it coming, due to some clever misdirection from the author. Jericho does his thing suspecting everyone and believing nothing. He gets into some side issues before solving the case. I like the final twist, which again I didn’t see coming. Throughout it all the author maintains a fast pace and some lively dialogue.
The novel is told in the first person from Jericho’s point of view. There are pros and cons to this as he is a troubled man. There is an undercurrent of violence to his personality, both mental and physical and initially I didn’t take to it, but as I got to know him I began to understand it (if I’d only read the previous novel etc.). On the other hand he is a man of action so he’s quick off the mark in his investigating and smart enough to make sense of what he learns. What I would say is that nothing comes easily to him and there always seems to be pain involved.
Jericho’s Dead is a good read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
November 4, 2024
"Scott Jericho on leidnud oma õnne - või vähemalt nii ta arvab. Neli kuud pärast seda, kui ta avastas võika tõe tema suguvõsa ajalooga seotud mõrvade jada taga on ta tagasi oma rändrahva rüpes. Saatusekaaslaseks mees, keda ta juba ülikooli ajal armastas ning kes tänu saatuse võikale vingerpussile oli sunnitud tema ellu naasma, et jääda. Või vähemasti nii ta loodab ...
Scotti isa on löönud käed kuulsa sensitiivi telemeeskonnaga, et pakkuda rändava lõbustuspargi lumma loetud päevad enne Halloweeni, mil toimub väidetavalt suurim vaimudega suhtlemise seanss televisiooni ajaloos. See on suurepärane viis koguda "talveks rasva" ja teenida elatist oma rahvale.
Sündmuste kulgu mõjutab aga Scotti "tädi" Tilda - kogenud kaardimoor ja selgeltnägemise spetsialist. Esimesel tööpäeval leiab Tilda oma telgist vahakujukese, millesse on torgatud nõelu ning mille küljes on paberitükk viitega piibellikule värssile, mis hoiatab nõidade eest. Tilda ei paista eriti mures olevat. Ta lohutab Scotti, et tema ja Haz saavad olema väga õnnelikud koos, omade rüpes. Samuti ei taha ta, et Scott tema pärast südant valutaks - ta on ette näinud, et ta sureb. Sarnasel veendumusel on ka suurima teleshow peaesineja Darrel Everwood - ta on veendunud, et tal on jäänud elada veel vaid neli päeva!
Kui päev peale vahakujukese ja kurjakuulutava sõnumi ilmumist leiab Scott oma tädi tema telgist mõrvatuna lööb tema sisemine tung õiglase kättemaksu järele tema vere vemmeldama ning ta asub asja uurima. Tema aistingud ja oskused viivad ta kiirelt järeldusele, et tema tädi ei ole paraku esimene ega ka viimane ohver võika kurikaela sünges stsenaariumis ning õnnetu asjaolude kokkulangemise tõttu kahtlustab ta ajutiselt ka oma elu armastust - Harry Moorhouse'i - seotuses mõrvadega.
Ajal, mil leinast ja armuvalust segane endine allilma võlakütt ja hilisem vangi mõistetud politseiuurija Scott Jericho üritab oma enda tunnetest ja juhtunu asjaoludes selgust saada, põimib riukalik kurikael oma veretööde ämblikuvõrku ning Scott Jericho on sunnitud kaalukausile asetama mitte ainult tunded oma armastatud mehe ja rändrahvast perekonna vastu vaid ka väga napilt oma enda elu, sest lisaks võikale kurikaelale on ta sunnitud silmitsi seisma ka vana vaenlasega, kes on lubanud ta eluküünla kustutada."
William Hussey teeb seda jälle! Võikad roimad, conandoylilikud vihjed ja lõngakerad, Briti krimiromantika. Scott Jericho on tagasi, et täpse lõuahaagiga lüüa lõgisema argihalli krimiihast krigisevad hambad. Ja oh sa pime, pime, pime - see kriminull on imeline!
Scotti isa on löönud käed kuulsa sensitiivi telemeeskonnaga, et pakkuda rändava lõbustuspargi lumma loetud päevad enne Halloweeni, mil toimub väidetavalt suurim vaimudega suhtlemise seanss televisiooni ajaloos. See on suurepärane viis koguda "talveks rasva" ja teenida elatist oma rahvale.
Sündmuste kulgu mõjutab aga Scotti "tädi" Tilda - kogenud kaardimoor ja selgeltnägemise spetsialist. Esimesel tööpäeval leiab Tilda oma telgist vahakujukese, millesse on torgatud nõelu ning mille küljes on paberitükk viitega piibellikule värssile, mis hoiatab nõidade eest. Tilda ei paista eriti mures olevat. Ta lohutab Scotti, et tema ja Haz saavad olema väga õnnelikud koos, omade rüpes. Samuti ei taha ta, et Scott tema pärast südant valutaks - ta on ette näinud, et ta sureb. Sarnasel veendumusel on ka suurima teleshow peaesineja Darrel Everwood - ta on veendunud, et tal on jäänud elada veel vaid neli päeva!
Kui päev peale vahakujukese ja kurjakuulutava sõnumi ilmumist leiab Scott oma tädi tema telgist mõrvatuna lööb tema sisemine tung õiglase kättemaksu järele tema vere vemmeldama ning ta asub asja uurima. Tema aistingud ja oskused viivad ta kiirelt järeldusele, et tema tädi ei ole paraku esimene ega ka viimane ohver võika kurikaela sünges stsenaariumis ning õnnetu asjaolude kokkulangemise tõttu kahtlustab ta ajutiselt ka oma elu armastust - Harry Moorhouse'i - seotuses mõrvadega.
Ajal, mil leinast ja armuvalust segane endine allilma võlakütt ja hilisem vangi mõistetud politseiuurija Scott Jericho üritab oma enda tunnetest ja juhtunu asjaoludes selgust saada, põimib riukalik kurikael oma veretööde ämblikuvõrku ning Scott Jericho on sunnitud kaalukausile asetama mitte ainult tunded oma armastatud mehe ja rändrahvast perekonna vastu vaid ka väga napilt oma enda elu, sest lisaks võikale kurikaelale on ta sunnitud silmitsi seisma ka vana vaenlasega, kes on lubanud ta eluküünla kustutada."
William Hussey teeb seda jälle! Võikad roimad, conandoylilikud vihjed ja lõngakerad, Briti krimiromantika. Scott Jericho on tagasi, et täpse lõuahaagiga lüüa lõgisema argihalli krimiihast krigisevad hambad. Ja oh sa pime, pime, pime - see kriminull on imeline!
February 20, 2024
This is the follow-up to the brilliant series opener Killing Jericho which, for maximum enjoyment, I do recommend you read before this book.
We catch up with ex-copper, ex-con, ex-showman, Scott Jericho as he's still coming to terms with what happened in the previous book. He doesn't know much about what he wants but he knows he doesn't want more of what came before. (I know I am being elusive, but if you've read the previous book, you'll know). He's even having issues with his new found relationship. The world is not being kind to him at all.
Things are ticking along, albeit not really going anywhere, until one day murder strikes his life once again when the Fortune Teller in his family Fair is found brutally murdered. Coincidentally, or not, the Fair is sited nearby the most haunted house in England, one Purley Rectory, where celebrated psychic Darrel Everwood is due to "go live"...
And so begins a cracking story full of whos and whys and whats that kept me guessing all the way through, dragging Scott in and holding him in its clutches... It also seems that the past he thought was done with, isn't...
Oooo I blooming loved this just as much as I loved the first book. I simply adore Scott as a character. He really has it all as the angst ridden guy who just wants to find his way in life but can't help but scupper himself whenever he gets a foothold in anything. He really is his own worst enemy at times.
I also love the things I learn about the Fairground and the travelling community. I especially love the vocabulary, some of which I actually use myself and was unaware of its origins. In Portsmouth we use dinlo a lot!
The storyline, as in the previous book, is just sublime. It grabbed me from the off, sucked me in, and held me captive all the way through, spitting me out at the end exhausted but wholly satisfied.
If I have just one niggle though, there is probably too much catch-up from the previous book, rather than just a little as a memory jogger. I get that author's have to strike a balance but I did feel it held the book back a little at the start.
All in all, a cracking follow-up to what was one of the highlights of my reading last year. I really can't wait to reconnect with Scott in book three. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
We catch up with ex-copper, ex-con, ex-showman, Scott Jericho as he's still coming to terms with what happened in the previous book. He doesn't know much about what he wants but he knows he doesn't want more of what came before. (I know I am being elusive, but if you've read the previous book, you'll know). He's even having issues with his new found relationship. The world is not being kind to him at all.
Things are ticking along, albeit not really going anywhere, until one day murder strikes his life once again when the Fortune Teller in his family Fair is found brutally murdered. Coincidentally, or not, the Fair is sited nearby the most haunted house in England, one Purley Rectory, where celebrated psychic Darrel Everwood is due to "go live"...
And so begins a cracking story full of whos and whys and whats that kept me guessing all the way through, dragging Scott in and holding him in its clutches... It also seems that the past he thought was done with, isn't...
Oooo I blooming loved this just as much as I loved the first book. I simply adore Scott as a character. He really has it all as the angst ridden guy who just wants to find his way in life but can't help but scupper himself whenever he gets a foothold in anything. He really is his own worst enemy at times.
I also love the things I learn about the Fairground and the travelling community. I especially love the vocabulary, some of which I actually use myself and was unaware of its origins. In Portsmouth we use dinlo a lot!
The storyline, as in the previous book, is just sublime. It grabbed me from the off, sucked me in, and held me captive all the way through, spitting me out at the end exhausted but wholly satisfied.
If I have just one niggle though, there is probably too much catch-up from the previous book, rather than just a little as a memory jogger. I get that author's have to strike a balance but I did feel it held the book back a little at the start.
All in all, a cracking follow-up to what was one of the highlights of my reading last year. I really can't wait to reconnect with Scott in book three. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
December 5, 2024
Celebrity psychic, ghost hunter and TV star, Darrel Everwood has a big event planned, the most significant one of his career. On Halloween in a TV spectacular, he will summon ghosts in the most haunted house in Britain, a nineteenth century vicarage. It is much needed because his reputation has been trashed in the tabloids and now a physicist debunker of the supernatural is out to demonstrate he is a charlatan. Still, he’s planning for huge numbers on site, with Jericho’s Fair an added incentive for people to come, as well astronomical viewing figures. If only he can pull off the greatest show of his life.
Scott Jericho is not taken in by Everwood’s hubris but has other things on his mind, his relationship with Harry, who has joined him on the circuit, is faltering. His attention is grabbed and investigative mind reawakened when somebody close to him, a long-established member of the fair is brutally murdered. Left behind in the savagery is a wax doll, echoes of a voodoo doll, which has been mutilated. When Scott makes a link to an earlier killing, he becomes concerned that a serial killer is taking revenge on fake spiritualists and fortune seekers. What better target than prime time TV on Halloween.
Another dark and bloody serial killer tale with a touch of black humour. Mediums and spiritualists are an easy target, but there is something delicious when some are hoisted by their own petard. Fortune telling at the seaside or fair is generally a bit of fun, nothing to be taken seriously. However, a few individuals fall under the spell of some of the shadier spiritualists they can become exploited either financially or psychologically. Here the reader will get a taste of how it’s done, cold readings and dickering and then just when you believe it is all hokum a seed of doubt is place. So nicely judged.
Scott’s relationship with Harry is fraught and seemingly close to collapse when a visitor from Scott’s past arrives. Enforcer and ex-dalliance Benjamin Halliday, with his magnificent Hull accent appears to remind Scott of other times. Can Sal knock some sense into him.
The fair is being haunted by two disturbing individuals, a self-styled clergyman and a suspected killer, adding to Scott’s list of suspects.
A wonderfully entertaining serial killer story.
Scott Jericho is not taken in by Everwood’s hubris but has other things on his mind, his relationship with Harry, who has joined him on the circuit, is faltering. His attention is grabbed and investigative mind reawakened when somebody close to him, a long-established member of the fair is brutally murdered. Left behind in the savagery is a wax doll, echoes of a voodoo doll, which has been mutilated. When Scott makes a link to an earlier killing, he becomes concerned that a serial killer is taking revenge on fake spiritualists and fortune seekers. What better target than prime time TV on Halloween.
Another dark and bloody serial killer tale with a touch of black humour. Mediums and spiritualists are an easy target, but there is something delicious when some are hoisted by their own petard. Fortune telling at the seaside or fair is generally a bit of fun, nothing to be taken seriously. However, a few individuals fall under the spell of some of the shadier spiritualists they can become exploited either financially or psychologically. Here the reader will get a taste of how it’s done, cold readings and dickering and then just when you believe it is all hokum a seed of doubt is place. So nicely judged.
Scott’s relationship with Harry is fraught and seemingly close to collapse when a visitor from Scott’s past arrives. Enforcer and ex-dalliance Benjamin Halliday, with his magnificent Hull accent appears to remind Scott of other times. Can Sal knock some sense into him.
The fair is being haunted by two disturbing individuals, a self-styled clergyman and a suspected killer, adding to Scott’s list of suspects.
A wonderfully entertaining serial killer story.
May 18, 2024
I was very late to my introduction to both this author and to Scott Jericho - having read the first book in this series - Killing Jericho - back in December, 8 months after it's release.
I was completely obsessed and couldn't wait to get hold of this second book in the series - yet still struggled to fit it into my packed schedule.
I am beyond happy that I've now managed to make time to read this because quite honestly, this was just as brilliant as the first, if not better!
Following on from the events of book 1, we now see Scott more settled in his role with the fair and back with Harry.
But as they set up to compliment the set of an upcoming TV broadcast with celebrity psychic Darrel Everwood - things take a macabre turn as Darrel is convinced he will die here.
As Scott investigates, a killer emerges and he is once again flung right into the middle of a complex case.
I absolutely love our flawed, determined, caring and relentless Scott.
He's one of those characters that jumps right off the page and you just can't help getting involved in!
I have absolutely nothing in common with him but find it so, so easy to connect, empathise and root for him the whole time - even when you know that he's maybe bending those rules just a tad!
Once again, the setting is wonderful.
I loved the way that Hussey brings the fair to life with the most vivid descriptions and immerses us completely.
The focus on the fortune teller/psychic element here and setting this over Halloween, gives this a slightly creepier, paranormal vibe than the first book and I absolutely loved this shift.
The plot was again complex, giving us plenty of new characters to get to grips with and a host of suspects to whittle down.
I was still stumped until we neared the big reveal where the tension builds up and the threads begin to come together leading us to a shocking conclusion for the case and an even bigger killer cliffhanger.
I'm already excited for book 3 and desperate to see what will follow, but Scott better get healing quickly - because I can't see anything good coming from this final sucker punch!
I was completely obsessed and couldn't wait to get hold of this second book in the series - yet still struggled to fit it into my packed schedule.
I am beyond happy that I've now managed to make time to read this because quite honestly, this was just as brilliant as the first, if not better!
Following on from the events of book 1, we now see Scott more settled in his role with the fair and back with Harry.
But as they set up to compliment the set of an upcoming TV broadcast with celebrity psychic Darrel Everwood - things take a macabre turn as Darrel is convinced he will die here.
As Scott investigates, a killer emerges and he is once again flung right into the middle of a complex case.
I absolutely love our flawed, determined, caring and relentless Scott.
He's one of those characters that jumps right off the page and you just can't help getting involved in!
I have absolutely nothing in common with him but find it so, so easy to connect, empathise and root for him the whole time - even when you know that he's maybe bending those rules just a tad!
Once again, the setting is wonderful.
I loved the way that Hussey brings the fair to life with the most vivid descriptions and immerses us completely.
The focus on the fortune teller/psychic element here and setting this over Halloween, gives this a slightly creepier, paranormal vibe than the first book and I absolutely loved this shift.
The plot was again complex, giving us plenty of new characters to get to grips with and a host of suspects to whittle down.
I was still stumped until we neared the big reveal where the tension builds up and the threads begin to come together leading us to a shocking conclusion for the case and an even bigger killer cliffhanger.
I'm already excited for book 3 and desperate to see what will follow, but Scott better get healing quickly - because I can't see anything good coming from this final sucker punch!
July 5, 2025
I bought this right after finishing the first one and read it overnight. I am definitely emotionally invested in the Scott 4 Harry situation and would have liked more Harry in this book, but luckily the mysterious serial killer aspect was as well done as in the first book - nice sense of place (the Traveller aspect gets more play here), lots of different strands going on, satisfying ending and foreshadowing of the next book.
Yes, there are still some annoyances in the writing. (Scott Jericho remains unable to actually say goodbye to anyone on the phone.) At times you could see how Hussey has plotted out the next step (character A has conversation with character B which drops in clue C) and just kind of wedged it in there unrealistically. Like, you don't finish reading a book at 4am and *immediately* call a person you've met once to get info off them for your case ... and have that person launch into a detailed response to your question. They'd tell you to fuck off.
The "villain sets the stage to dramatically reveal their entire plot and backstory" is fine as a typical trope for this genre. But the "two characters avoid having a basic conversation about something for no good reason so the tension between them can be dragged out for the whole novel" device was irritating. Especially when one of those characters is supposed to have an almost supernatural ability to read other people, yet is determinedly misunderstanding the other - and in a way that doesn't make sense at all for that character. At least there were fewer "If only I'd known ..." comments this time.
So overall, not perfect. While other reviewers have described Hussey's prose as overwritten, I actually found it too perfunctory at times - it got us from A to B, but was too telling-not-showing. And sometimes entire characters only pop up to do this role. And you will have to suspend your disbelief a few times. But for all its faults, something in this series has me emotionally hooked, and I will be getting the next one.
Yes, there are still some annoyances in the writing. (Scott Jericho remains unable to actually say goodbye to anyone on the phone.) At times you could see how Hussey has plotted out the next step (character A has conversation with character B which drops in clue C) and just kind of wedged it in there unrealistically. Like, you don't finish reading a book at 4am and *immediately* call a person you've met once to get info off them for your case ... and have that person launch into a detailed response to your question. They'd tell you to fuck off.
The "villain sets the stage to dramatically reveal their entire plot and backstory" is fine as a typical trope for this genre. But the "two characters avoid having a basic conversation about something for no good reason so the tension between them can be dragged out for the whole novel" device was irritating. Especially when one of those characters is supposed to have an almost supernatural ability to read other people, yet is determinedly misunderstanding the other - and in a way that doesn't make sense at all for that character. At least there were fewer "If only I'd known ..." comments this time.
So overall, not perfect. While other reviewers have described Hussey's prose as overwritten, I actually found it too perfunctory at times - it got us from A to B, but was too telling-not-showing. And sometimes entire characters only pop up to do this role. And you will have to suspend your disbelief a few times. But for all its faults, something in this series has me emotionally hooked, and I will be getting the next one.
March 1, 2024
Book 2 in the Scott Jericho murder series and you always wonder whether the second book will be as good as the first, well I can assure you it is. Jericho was brought up as a showman on his fathers fair but he left the travelling life to join the police force. That didn’t go as planned! In book 1, Jericho got back together with his former partner Harry ‘Haz’ and they are now both living and travelling with the fair. But their relationship seems to be unsettled and when Jericho does what Jericho does, and gets mixed up with a murder investigation Harry leaves the fair. This is another real page turner of a read with an exciting and twisty plotline.
Briefly, unbeknownst to Jericho, his father has done a deal whereby a well-known psychic is going to make an appearance at a local house reputed to be haunted, hoping to bring more visitors into the fair. But when someone very close to Jericho is murdered in a savage attack Jericho can’t leave it to the police to investigate, his blood is boiling… DCI Thomas Tallis (yes really) is in charge of the investigation and he and Jericho strike up an unlikely friendship agreeing to cooperate in their separate investigations.
I adore Jericho but he is a bit of a hothead and at one point I wanted to slap him and say just talk to Harry and stop making assumptions. His hot-headedness (is that even a word!) does get him into some very sticky situations. He’s got a lot of demons and doesn’t find it easy to share but they are eating him up. There are quite a few potential suspects and so many red herrings I just didn’t know who the killer was. I love the realistic portrayal of the showman’s life, I have friends in this community and they are just like this - loyal, caring and very genuine people. This is definitely one of my favourite series right now and I hope Jericho will be back soon. Loved it.
Briefly, unbeknownst to Jericho, his father has done a deal whereby a well-known psychic is going to make an appearance at a local house reputed to be haunted, hoping to bring more visitors into the fair. But when someone very close to Jericho is murdered in a savage attack Jericho can’t leave it to the police to investigate, his blood is boiling… DCI Thomas Tallis (yes really) is in charge of the investigation and he and Jericho strike up an unlikely friendship agreeing to cooperate in their separate investigations.
I adore Jericho but he is a bit of a hothead and at one point I wanted to slap him and say just talk to Harry and stop making assumptions. His hot-headedness (is that even a word!) does get him into some very sticky situations. He’s got a lot of demons and doesn’t find it easy to share but they are eating him up. There are quite a few potential suspects and so many red herrings I just didn’t know who the killer was. I love the realistic portrayal of the showman’s life, I have friends in this community and they are just like this - loyal, caring and very genuine people. This is definitely one of my favourite series right now and I hope Jericho will be back soon. Loved it.
December 19, 2024
It is now several months after the events of Killing Jericho and our hero is still deeply troubled. The fair is set up in the grounds of the supposedly most haunted house in Britain, in a collaboration with celebrity psychic Darrel Everwood who will host a live television broadcast of his show Ghost Seekers on Halloween night. Feelings are running high and Dr Joseph Gillespie, an academic and sceptic, is running a media campaign to discredit all those he considers fraudulent – mediums, psychics, fortune tellers and the like. When someone leaves a crude wax effigy for the fairground fortune teller, Madam Tilda, who is then brutally murdered, Scott is determined to find the culprit. He had known her all his life, as she was a friend of his late mother, and they had shared many happy memories. The detective in charge of the investigation, DCI Thomas Tallis (like the composer), is happy for Scott to be involved due to his insider knowledge of the Traveller community and the fairground environment, but only up to a point.
The setting is vague, but the characters are well drawn and convincing, and the descriptive writing gives us a glimpse into the life, language and customs of the Traveller community. Numerous red herrings lead the reader down many false avenues, with twists and turns to keep us guessing the identity of the murderer. We only get Scott’s point of view, so the final reveal comes as a big surprise (to me, anyway). Scott Jericho is a troubled soul, but his heart is in the right place which makes him a compelling character. While you could read Jericho’s Dead as a standalone, I would recommend reading Killing Jericho first as the narrative will make a lot more sense. I love this series and look forward to reading the next one. Thanks to Zaffre and NetGalley for a digital copy to review.
August 10, 2024
William Hussey returns with another killer read, superbly slick layered plotting
The plotting is very slick, the murders and the way that they appear to have a ritualistic feel is superbly constructed and mired in mystery, the tone of the book has a real gritty feel about it, a wonderfully atmospheric read.
As in the first book the location and setting of the book really standout, it is clearly a world which the author is familiar with and the writing certainly gives a feeling of authenticity, you get a real sense of who the travelling community are, I also found the use of language and vocabulary added to the realism
The book deals with the world of mediums which allows for an interesting storyline to develop, it also allows for a little black humour
The ability that the author has to create protagonists which get under your skin, they all have a sense of belonging. I often feel a little sorry for Scott, he sometimes seems troubled, superbly written though, there is authentic feel to his character
I found the way that DCI Tallis and Scott worked together, maybe reluctantly at first but then a growing respect added to the way the investigation unfolded
As the book moves on, the suspense keeps turning up a notch, the tension keeps you hooked, the way the twists come at you, the ending is sublime in its reveal, it certainly had me guessing throughout. There are also plenty of surprise moments along the way.
There is a lot of warmth and heartfelt emotion running through the book
Overall, this is a gripping story, where the richness, quality and depth of the writing shines through allowing for a compelling, sometimes emotional but always a wholly engaging read, it had me gripped from first to last, wonderfully entertaining
One to highly recommend, William Hussey is definitely an author to watch out for
The plotting is very slick, the murders and the way that they appear to have a ritualistic feel is superbly constructed and mired in mystery, the tone of the book has a real gritty feel about it, a wonderfully atmospheric read.
As in the first book the location and setting of the book really standout, it is clearly a world which the author is familiar with and the writing certainly gives a feeling of authenticity, you get a real sense of who the travelling community are, I also found the use of language and vocabulary added to the realism
The book deals with the world of mediums which allows for an interesting storyline to develop, it also allows for a little black humour
The ability that the author has to create protagonists which get under your skin, they all have a sense of belonging. I often feel a little sorry for Scott, he sometimes seems troubled, superbly written though, there is authentic feel to his character
I found the way that DCI Tallis and Scott worked together, maybe reluctantly at first but then a growing respect added to the way the investigation unfolded
As the book moves on, the suspense keeps turning up a notch, the tension keeps you hooked, the way the twists come at you, the ending is sublime in its reveal, it certainly had me guessing throughout. There are also plenty of surprise moments along the way.
There is a lot of warmth and heartfelt emotion running through the book
Overall, this is a gripping story, where the richness, quality and depth of the writing shines through allowing for a compelling, sometimes emotional but always a wholly engaging read, it had me gripped from first to last, wonderfully entertaining
One to highly recommend, William Hussey is definitely an author to watch out for
June 29, 2025
Jericho’s Dead is the second book in the crime thriller Scott Jericho series following the titular gay disgraced detective. Scott is just starting to live life again with his boyfriend Harry back home in the Traveller fair community he left behind. But he is drawn into detecting once again when celebrity medium Darrel Everwood is convinced he will die during his upcoming live telecast on Halloween within the Fair’s haunted house. And a series of ritualistic murders of psychics including one within Jericho Fairs suggests Darrel might not just be paranoid, and it is up to Scott to uncover the murderer before it is too late.
I liked this sequel more than I did the first book. While it still has strong horror elements, it is far more of a mystery and not quite as dark. I think the first book was just too personal and tied to Scott Jericho’s past too soon (I usually like to know the protagonist better and wait for a more historically tied storyline in sequels if it’s going to be a series).
With Scott being far less of a depressing protagonist, the book no longer feels as dreary while still maintaining the solemnity and creepy atmosphere. A big issue I had in the first book with Scott was his keeping of secrets and unnecessary delaying of conversations, and that was also less so here (I’d say he is now more avoidant than frustrating). The mystery itself is just as twisty with some macabre crime scenes and actual investigating going on. There were also a few interesting personalities that spiced up the plot and a hint of the supernatural I don’t normally appreciate but worked so well here.
Jericho’s Dead improves on the few issues I had with Killing Jericho, delivering an investing tight twisty mystery.
I liked this sequel more than I did the first book. While it still has strong horror elements, it is far more of a mystery and not quite as dark. I think the first book was just too personal and tied to Scott Jericho’s past too soon (I usually like to know the protagonist better and wait for a more historically tied storyline in sequels if it’s going to be a series).
With Scott being far less of a depressing protagonist, the book no longer feels as dreary while still maintaining the solemnity and creepy atmosphere. A big issue I had in the first book with Scott was his keeping of secrets and unnecessary delaying of conversations, and that was also less so here (I’d say he is now more avoidant than frustrating). The mystery itself is just as twisty with some macabre crime scenes and actual investigating going on. There were also a few interesting personalities that spiced up the plot and a hint of the supernatural I don’t normally appreciate but worked so well here.
Jericho’s Dead improves on the few issues I had with Killing Jericho, delivering an investing tight twisty mystery.
February 29, 2024
I am totally hooked on this series, Jericho is probably the most unique detective that I have ever read about and William Hussey has certainly done his research for this book.
Scott Jericho is back working in his father's fair, he was brought up as a traveller working the rides but much to his father's disgust Jericho joined the police force. Jericho was good at his job until he was kicked off the force and served a prison sentence for attacking a murder suspect.
Once a detective, always a detective and Jericho is thrown into the midst of things when a serial killer is on the loose, a killer who is targeting mediums and when one of the victims is very close to home Jericho is determined to find answers.
An unusual two way respect happens between Jericho and DCI Tallis, the detective leading the hunt for the killer.
This story has more twists and turns than a corkscrew, red herrings are thrown out right, left, and centre, the suspects are many but who hates mediums enough to slaughter them ?
I love Jericho, he is moody, angry, he has his own demons to fight but he has a moral compass.
Another thread running through the story is Jericho's troubled relationship with Haz, why does Haz keep disappearing ? does he have anything to do with the killings ?
I love the atmosphere of the fairground, I love the people with their own loyalties, their own customs, even their own language. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Thank you Net Gallery for this ARC, my review is voluntary.
Scott Jericho is back working in his father's fair, he was brought up as a traveller working the rides but much to his father's disgust Jericho joined the police force. Jericho was good at his job until he was kicked off the force and served a prison sentence for attacking a murder suspect.
Once a detective, always a detective and Jericho is thrown into the midst of things when a serial killer is on the loose, a killer who is targeting mediums and when one of the victims is very close to home Jericho is determined to find answers.
An unusual two way respect happens between Jericho and DCI Tallis, the detective leading the hunt for the killer.
This story has more twists and turns than a corkscrew, red herrings are thrown out right, left, and centre, the suspects are many but who hates mediums enough to slaughter them ?
I love Jericho, he is moody, angry, he has his own demons to fight but he has a moral compass.
Another thread running through the story is Jericho's troubled relationship with Haz, why does Haz keep disappearing ? does he have anything to do with the killings ?
I love the atmosphere of the fairground, I love the people with their own loyalties, their own customs, even their own language. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Thank you Net Gallery for this ARC, my review is voluntary.
March 7, 2024
Thriller/Crime genres are hugly popular with me at the moment, I seem to bask in the twists and turns of a fast-paced plot.
I read the first Scott Jericho book via Netgalley as I thought it sounded interesting, never expecting it to captivate me so fully. As soon as Will announced he was publishing his second, I knew I had to get a copy by any means possible (Fortunaly no Scott Jericho-esque tricks were required, just another Netgalley request!)
I enjoyed this one as much, if not more than the first. You can tell Will has really settled into moulding and developing the character of protaganist Scott and his "castmates" They are more layered, the story even better plotted, yet it retains it's original charm. The plot focuses heavily on pyschics, religion and the notion of "belief" It's one that will always divide camps and still have some balanced precariously between on that cliched middle fence - all our well represented and believable people here.
Finally, I stated this before, but I love that Jericho is unapoligetically gay. Not a token character so often portrayed in novels who is a plethora of cliches! He's just a normal guy in love with his boyfriend and pushes firmly away from the sterotypes.
Bravo Will and thanks for writing the second book because I can now say I have a favourite crime series. Please sir, can I have some more?
I read the first Scott Jericho book via Netgalley as I thought it sounded interesting, never expecting it to captivate me so fully. As soon as Will announced he was publishing his second, I knew I had to get a copy by any means possible (Fortunaly no Scott Jericho-esque tricks were required, just another Netgalley request!)
I enjoyed this one as much, if not more than the first. You can tell Will has really settled into moulding and developing the character of protaganist Scott and his "castmates" They are more layered, the story even better plotted, yet it retains it's original charm. The plot focuses heavily on pyschics, religion and the notion of "belief" It's one that will always divide camps and still have some balanced precariously between on that cliched middle fence - all our well represented and believable people here.
Finally, I stated this before, but I love that Jericho is unapoligetically gay. Not a token character so often portrayed in novels who is a plethora of cliches! He's just a normal guy in love with his boyfriend and pushes firmly away from the sterotypes.
Bravo Will and thanks for writing the second book because I can now say I have a favourite crime series. Please sir, can I have some more?
March 16, 2024
4.25-4.5⭐️
Book no 2
It has a unique and interesting setting on which to base the mystery, that being a travelling fair and traveller community. It’s good to see something a bit different in the genre.
I had this book in audiobook format read by Damian Lynch who does a great job. He is excellent. A great interesting voice for Scott, he copes well with the female voices.
This book is central to the fair and the traveller community. It’s set around Halloween with fortune tellers and psychics being k*lled. I really enjoyed the theme used in the book. It’s not cosy, but neither is it dark and gritty, so would have a wide appeal. Personally I’d like to see it darker and grittier, I think the environment is perfect for it.
I really like the main character Scott Jericho, he is complex, and more than troubled having been incarcerated and an ex detective now back working in the family fair business. Even his love life isn’t running smoothly.
I found some aspects of the explanation of the final reveal overly intricate and complicated, but the author took care to fully explain everything, I totally bought into the motivation of the antagonist.
I read the first book, but found that I enjoyed this book more, I don’t know how much of it is down to narrator. I’d recommend checking out this series, especially on audiobook as the narrator is the perfect fit.
Book no 2
It has a unique and interesting setting on which to base the mystery, that being a travelling fair and traveller community. It’s good to see something a bit different in the genre.
I had this book in audiobook format read by Damian Lynch who does a great job. He is excellent. A great interesting voice for Scott, he copes well with the female voices.
This book is central to the fair and the traveller community. It’s set around Halloween with fortune tellers and psychics being k*lled. I really enjoyed the theme used in the book. It’s not cosy, but neither is it dark and gritty, so would have a wide appeal. Personally I’d like to see it darker and grittier, I think the environment is perfect for it.
I really like the main character Scott Jericho, he is complex, and more than troubled having been incarcerated and an ex detective now back working in the family fair business. Even his love life isn’t running smoothly.
I found some aspects of the explanation of the final reveal overly intricate and complicated, but the author took care to fully explain everything, I totally bought into the motivation of the antagonist.
I read the first book, but found that I enjoyed this book more, I don’t know how much of it is down to narrator. I’d recommend checking out this series, especially on audiobook as the narrator is the perfect fit.
March 18, 2024
In the highly anticipated sequel "Jericho's Dead" by William Hussey, Detective Scott Jericho returns to face his most daunting challenge yet. Hussey's gripping narrative skillfully navigates a treacherous landscape of mystery and danger, leaving readers breathless with anticipation.
Having sworn off the darkness of murder and mystery, Jericho is forced back into the fray when a merciless serial killer sets their sights on a loved one. With every page, Hussey tightens the screws of suspense, drawing readers deeper into a labyrinth of secrets and deceit.
As the body count rises and the clock ticks ominously, Jericho races against time to decipher the chilling clues linking the killings to a pivotal Halloween night television event. Against a backdrop of sinister wax effigies and ominous prophecies, Jericho must confront both the ruthless killer and his own inner demons.
Hussey's mastery shines through in every twist and turn, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the electrifying climax. "Jericho's Dead" is a tour de force of suspense, earning widespread acclaim for its relentless pacing, intricate plotting, and unforgettable characters. This is a must-read for fans of the genre, solidifying Hussey's place among the titans of crime fiction.
Having sworn off the darkness of murder and mystery, Jericho is forced back into the fray when a merciless serial killer sets their sights on a loved one. With every page, Hussey tightens the screws of suspense, drawing readers deeper into a labyrinth of secrets and deceit.
As the body count rises and the clock ticks ominously, Jericho races against time to decipher the chilling clues linking the killings to a pivotal Halloween night television event. Against a backdrop of sinister wax effigies and ominous prophecies, Jericho must confront both the ruthless killer and his own inner demons.
Hussey's mastery shines through in every twist and turn, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the electrifying climax. "Jericho's Dead" is a tour de force of suspense, earning widespread acclaim for its relentless pacing, intricate plotting, and unforgettable characters. This is a must-read for fans of the genre, solidifying Hussey's place among the titans of crime fiction.
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