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Jake Jackson #2
Death in a Lonely Place
Former London detective Jake Jackson—introduced in the acclaimed mystery Death Under a Little Sky—finds his new life in the country threatened by an old case from the past in this absorbing mystery that will challenge readers’ detective skills.
In a quiet village, a storm is brewing. Detective Jake Jackson left London for a quiet life in Caelum Parvum. The idyllic country village offers the peace he craves—tending to his chickens, swimming in his lake, and spending long, lazy evenings with his new love, Livia. It’s the perfect setting for their relationship to blossom.
Then a case from the past re-emerges, shattering the calm and plunging Jake into the shadowy world of No Taboo—a clandestine group which serves the extravagant whims of Britain’s elite. And when Livia accepts a position working for a powerful publishing magnate, suspicions arise about her new employer’s connection to the mysterious group.
As unseen forces manipulate those around him, Jake races to expose the deception that threatens his peaceful world. Amid the desolate beauty and seemingly friendly faces of this small, cozy community, Jake must decide who he can really trust... or learn just how far No Taboo will go to protect their secrets.
In a quiet village, a storm is brewing. Detective Jake Jackson left London for a quiet life in Caelum Parvum. The idyllic country village offers the peace he craves—tending to his chickens, swimming in his lake, and spending long, lazy evenings with his new love, Livia. It’s the perfect setting for their relationship to blossom.
Then a case from the past re-emerges, shattering the calm and plunging Jake into the shadowy world of No Taboo—a clandestine group which serves the extravagant whims of Britain’s elite. And when Livia accepts a position working for a powerful publishing magnate, suspicions arise about her new employer’s connection to the mysterious group.
As unseen forces manipulate those around him, Jake races to expose the deception that threatens his peaceful world. Amid the desolate beauty and seemingly friendly faces of this small, cozy community, Jake must decide who he can really trust... or learn just how far No Taboo will go to protect their secrets.
352 pages, Paperback
First published April 11, 2024
212 people are currently reading
4431 people want to read
About the author
Stig Abell
11 books164 followersStephen "Stig" Paul Abell is an English journalist, newspaper editor and radio presenter. He currently co-presents the Monday to Thursday breakfast show on Times Radio with Aasmah Mir.
Abell was from 2016 to 2020 editor of The Times Literary Supplement and from 2013 to 2016 managing editor of The Sun. He was formerly a fiction reviewer at The Spectator and reviewer at Telegraph Media Group as well as The Times Literary Supplement. He was also a presenter on LBC Radio.
Abell educated at Loughborough Grammar School, and went on to graduate with a double first in English from Emmanuel College, Cambridge.
In September 2001, Abell joined the Press Complaints Commission as a complaints officer; he completed other roles at the PCC including press officer, assistant director and deputy director before being appointed Director of the PCC on 19 December 2010. In August 2013, Abell joined The Sun as managing editor, his role until the end of April 2016.
In March 2014, Abell started co-presenting a show on LBC Radio alongside Sky News television presenter Kay Burley from 8am to 11am on Sundays. Burley was the main presenter while Abell reviewed the papers and added political comment.
From August 2014, the show was co-presented by Abell and LBC's Petrie Hosken. In January 2015, he was given his own show from 8 am to 10 am on Sundays. From April 2016, Abell moved to the afternoon slot on Sundays of 3 pm to 6 pm.
Abell has been heavily criticized for publishing an article in 2015 by Katie Hopkins. The article argued for "gunships sending these boats back to their own country", and described migrants as "like cockroaches". It concluded that Britain should "force migrants back to their shores and burn the boats".
In May 2016, Abell became the editor of The Times Literary Supplement, succeeding Sir Peter Stothard, who had edited the newspaper for the previous 14 years. He held the post until June 2020, when he was succeeded by Martin Ivens.
Abell was from 2016 to 2020 editor of The Times Literary Supplement and from 2013 to 2016 managing editor of The Sun. He was formerly a fiction reviewer at The Spectator and reviewer at Telegraph Media Group as well as The Times Literary Supplement. He was also a presenter on LBC Radio.
Abell educated at Loughborough Grammar School, and went on to graduate with a double first in English from Emmanuel College, Cambridge.
In September 2001, Abell joined the Press Complaints Commission as a complaints officer; he completed other roles at the PCC including press officer, assistant director and deputy director before being appointed Director of the PCC on 19 December 2010. In August 2013, Abell joined The Sun as managing editor, his role until the end of April 2016.
In March 2014, Abell started co-presenting a show on LBC Radio alongside Sky News television presenter Kay Burley from 8am to 11am on Sundays. Burley was the main presenter while Abell reviewed the papers and added political comment.
From August 2014, the show was co-presented by Abell and LBC's Petrie Hosken. In January 2015, he was given his own show from 8 am to 10 am on Sundays. From April 2016, Abell moved to the afternoon slot on Sundays of 3 pm to 6 pm.
Abell has been heavily criticized for publishing an article in 2015 by Katie Hopkins. The article argued for "gunships sending these boats back to their own country", and described migrants as "like cockroaches". It concluded that Britain should "force migrants back to their shores and burn the boats".
In May 2016, Abell became the editor of The Times Literary Supplement, succeeding Sir Peter Stothard, who had edited the newspaper for the previous 14 years. He held the post until June 2020, when he was succeeded by Martin Ivens.
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February 12, 2024
4.5 rounded up
Jake Jackson #2
We first meet ex-Met detective Jake in the terrific ”Death Under a Little Sky” when he goes to live in the isolated cottage, Little Sky, that he is bequeathed by his uncle Arthur, close to the village of Caelum Parvum. Against the odds, he now loves his quiet life, the lack of communication with outside world and he relishes the peace it offers. He also loves spending time with local vet, Livia and her daughter Diana. When DCI Watson brings him a missing child case, it plunges Jake back several years to a Met case he investigates as it seems to link to “No Taboo”. This shadowy, dark web based, clandestine group provides an elite service for those who can pay for “no taboo”. He agrees to help Watson but warns him, as previously, their enquiries will probably yield very little. Livia has a new client in Sam Martinson, a newspaper magnate, and in whom Jake has immediate suspicions. Is Jake’s peaceful life with Livia under threat? Will Jake plays Sherlock alongside Watson?
This is another stellar addition to hopefully a series. Stig Abell writes so well, with flowing descriptions, steeped and rich in the atmosphere of deep winter at Little Sky which I happily mind tramp with Jake. However, I’ll pass on the early morning winter lake swims, thank you. The pace isn’t especially fast, particularly at the start, though it certainly speeds up later. This pace actually suits Jake’s lifestyle, at least the one he desires. The characters are really good, Jake is immensely likeable and I love his addiction to detective/thriller novels (well, I would wouldn’t I?!) and there are lots of references to these used cleverly throughout, especially in the dialogue. Livia is a wonderful character and their relationship is heartwarming and something that Jake fully deserves. Rose is becoming more likeable by the day.
You get definite vibes about No Taboo very early on and it’s frightening how deep its reach seems to be. Their dangerous intent is evident from the beginning, there’s a deep sense of foreboding, dark omens, sinister tones, and deep tentacles of corruption, as the conspiracy theories tumble through Jakes mind. There are some touching moments which contrast sharply with the growing feelings of malign presences. Jake is so torn, to pursue or continue to live his life peacefully? I thoroughly enjoy (though this not quite the right word, as circumstances prove) the Christiesqie tense gathering at “ Purple Prose”, the stately home owned by Martinson. The Queen of Crime herself would be proud of that scenario. It presages a storm brewing, but of what nature? From this point on the pace is brisk with plot twists galore, some shocks, some dangerous encounters with a dramatic end, worthy of any crime writer of note. Just strap your disbelief suspenders on and enjoy!
Overall, this is a gripping page turner with a creative plot, terrific settings, plenty of yummy food, and some moments of humour to alleviate the fear and murderous intent.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Harper Collins, HarperFiction for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Jake Jackson #2
We first meet ex-Met detective Jake in the terrific ”Death Under a Little Sky” when he goes to live in the isolated cottage, Little Sky, that he is bequeathed by his uncle Arthur, close to the village of Caelum Parvum. Against the odds, he now loves his quiet life, the lack of communication with outside world and he relishes the peace it offers. He also loves spending time with local vet, Livia and her daughter Diana. When DCI Watson brings him a missing child case, it plunges Jake back several years to a Met case he investigates as it seems to link to “No Taboo”. This shadowy, dark web based, clandestine group provides an elite service for those who can pay for “no taboo”. He agrees to help Watson but warns him, as previously, their enquiries will probably yield very little. Livia has a new client in Sam Martinson, a newspaper magnate, and in whom Jake has immediate suspicions. Is Jake’s peaceful life with Livia under threat? Will Jake plays Sherlock alongside Watson?
This is another stellar addition to hopefully a series. Stig Abell writes so well, with flowing descriptions, steeped and rich in the atmosphere of deep winter at Little Sky which I happily mind tramp with Jake. However, I’ll pass on the early morning winter lake swims, thank you. The pace isn’t especially fast, particularly at the start, though it certainly speeds up later. This pace actually suits Jake’s lifestyle, at least the one he desires. The characters are really good, Jake is immensely likeable and I love his addiction to detective/thriller novels (well, I would wouldn’t I?!) and there are lots of references to these used cleverly throughout, especially in the dialogue. Livia is a wonderful character and their relationship is heartwarming and something that Jake fully deserves. Rose is becoming more likeable by the day.
You get definite vibes about No Taboo very early on and it’s frightening how deep its reach seems to be. Their dangerous intent is evident from the beginning, there’s a deep sense of foreboding, dark omens, sinister tones, and deep tentacles of corruption, as the conspiracy theories tumble through Jakes mind. There are some touching moments which contrast sharply with the growing feelings of malign presences. Jake is so torn, to pursue or continue to live his life peacefully? I thoroughly enjoy (though this not quite the right word, as circumstances prove) the Christiesqie tense gathering at “ Purple Prose”, the stately home owned by Martinson. The Queen of Crime herself would be proud of that scenario. It presages a storm brewing, but of what nature? From this point on the pace is brisk with plot twists galore, some shocks, some dangerous encounters with a dramatic end, worthy of any crime writer of note. Just strap your disbelief suspenders on and enjoy!
Overall, this is a gripping page turner with a creative plot, terrific settings, plenty of yummy food, and some moments of humour to alleviate the fear and murderous intent.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Harper Collins, HarperFiction for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
March 4, 2025
This is the second in the Jake Jackson series. It's possible to read as a stand alone but Death Under A Little Sky was worth a read if you like a non-gory murder mystery.
In this story Jake becomes embroiled in an even more dangerous game. As girlfriend, Livia, begins a new job working for a local billionaire, Jake is sought out by DI Watson to help him find a missing child. With memories of a case he failed to solve still wrankling Jake has no qualms about offering his services. However the abduction leads him into much murkier territory involving a shadowy group of influential people and a group called No Taboo. As Jake gets in deeper and deeper, his relationships and trust are put in jeopardy but will Jake be able to walk away or even be allowed to?
This is a little more gory than the last book and the crimes are a lot darker - child abuse, torture and murder.
However my main complaints are similar to Jake's last outing. The relationship with Livia is more established but that brings several seemingly endless love scenes that I've no time for (personal preference obviously). The other things that irritated me was the endless mention of soup - I did wonder at one point whether Stig Abell was teeing up a companion recipe book? The overuse of the word slender was annoying - everyone was slender - adults, children, cats, dogs ... A thesaurus would be handy.
I was also a bit surprised by how idiotic our hero is. I'd been shouting a name at the audio for half the book but Jake was terribly slow on the uptake. You have to understand that I'm rubbish at guessing whodunnit.
My final niggle was how over-the-top the characters were.
Again, these are all minor niggles and I'm hoping for a better experience with The Burial Place (Jake Jackson #3) which I have on my reading list.
In this story Jake becomes embroiled in an even more dangerous game. As girlfriend, Livia, begins a new job working for a local billionaire, Jake is sought out by DI Watson to help him find a missing child. With memories of a case he failed to solve still wrankling Jake has no qualms about offering his services. However the abduction leads him into much murkier territory involving a shadowy group of influential people and a group called No Taboo. As Jake gets in deeper and deeper, his relationships and trust are put in jeopardy but will Jake be able to walk away or even be allowed to?
This is a little more gory than the last book and the crimes are a lot darker - child abuse, torture and murder.
However my main complaints are similar to Jake's last outing. The relationship with Livia is more established but that brings several seemingly endless love scenes that I've no time for (personal preference obviously). The other things that irritated me was the endless mention of soup - I did wonder at one point whether Stig Abell was teeing up a companion recipe book? The overuse of the word slender was annoying - everyone was slender - adults, children, cats, dogs ... A thesaurus would be handy.
I was also a bit surprised by how idiotic our hero is. I'd been shouting a name at the audio for half the book but Jake was terribly slow on the uptake. You have to understand that I'm rubbish at guessing whodunnit.
My final niggle was how over-the-top the characters were.
Again, these are all minor niggles and I'm hoping for a better experience with The Burial Place (Jake Jackson #3) which I have on my reading list.
April 26, 2024
It seems I will going against common opinion on this one.
I quite enjoyed Stig Abell's first book. But this one just didn't cut it.
As a thriller, it held about as much tension and anticipation as a bowl of three day old stodgy porridge.
The story line was stretched, and the new characters were stereotypes cut out from the detective novels Abell keeps name dropping into the book.
His Victorian era bodice ripper way of describing the 'personal time' of Jake and Livia is almost eyerollingly bad. Okay, IS eyerollingly bad.
Banal and unsatisfying.
I quite enjoyed Stig Abell's first book. But this one just didn't cut it.
As a thriller, it held about as much tension and anticipation as a bowl of three day old stodgy porridge.
The story line was stretched, and the new characters were stereotypes cut out from the detective novels Abell keeps name dropping into the book.
His Victorian era bodice ripper way of describing the 'personal time' of Jake and Livia is almost eyerollingly bad. Okay, IS eyerollingly bad.
Banal and unsatisfying.
October 6, 2024
Tricky second book syndrome…
Ex-detective Jake Jackson is still living the life of a semi-hermit in the house his uncle left him. But he has gradually made friends with some of the locals and his relationship with Livia has deepened in the year or so since we left them at the end of the first book in the series, Death Under a Little Sky. One of the people he has stayed friendly with is Inspector Watson, whom he worked with in the previous investigation. Now Inspector Watson has come to him seeking help. A little girl is missing, probably abducted, and a card left at the scene bore the name No Taboo. When Watson searched police records, Jake’s name came up – years before he had investigated a cold case concerning another missing child and again the name No Taboo had come up in the course of the investigation. Jake tells Watson he didn’t manage to find out who or what No Taboo was, but agrees to talk to his old researcher, Aletheia, who still works with the police. It turns out Aletheia has learned a little more about No Taboo since then, just enough to put them all in danger…
I loved Death Under a Little Sky so much that it won the FF Award for Crime Fiction (on my blog) last year. In particular it was the depth of the characterisation that I admired, both of Jake himself as a damaged man using solitude as a means of healing, and gradually of the various people who make up this small rural community. The writing was beautiful as Abell showed Jake developing a love of nature, learning the joys of growing his own food and making things with his own hands. This second book has some of those elements too, especially the descriptions of Jake’s continuing need for solitude. But this time the plot is far-fetched and somehow doesn’t suit the thoughtful atmosphere. We’re no longer involved in the intimate lives of the small group of locals – now we’re suddenly dealing with an evil organisation of caricatured baddies catering to the perverted desires of the very rich. I’m afraid it feels like a complete mismatch between style and content. Intriguingly, Abell tells us in his afterword that he originally intended for the book to be a kind of country house mystery, but he was advised by his publishing team to go down this route instead. Bad advice, in my opinion, and another example of why I feel authors should fight to go with their own intuition, especially if they’ve already had a successful book.
Abell is clearly a lover of detective fiction, especially, though not exclusively, of the vintage kind. He’s given that love to his character too, so there are loads of references to books and authors, which is always fun for fellow mystery lovers. In that spirit, I’d say this book has more the feel of an Edgar Wallace, or perhaps even an Ian Fleming, than a Christie or Sayers. Right back from my introduction to Moriarty as a child, I have always had difficulty with the concept of the evil genius who runs an organisation that reaches its tentacles into every layer of the establishment but remains entirely invisible, so part of my struggle with this one is due to my subjective scepticism.
I’m also rather tired of “genius” misfits (cf. Mallory or Lisbeth Salander, for example) who can find any and all information on the “dark web”, negating the need for much real investigation. This book has one such genius, Martha, who left me feeling that since she could find out everything about No Taboo in the space of a few days it couldn’t have been very well hidden after all. Between the evil genius and the good genius, I didn’t feel Jake got much of a look-in as an investigator, and so had to become a combination of messenger-boy and muscle-bound action man instead.
I feel I’m in danger of being too critical, probably because my expectations were too high. There’s much to enjoy in the book in terms of the writing and Jake continues to be an interesting character, though I feel his hermit-like existence has probably been played out now and is in danger of becoming repetitive. I’d actually like to see Abell move away from these characters and/or this setting now. There is a limit to how often a murder or a conspiracy can happen in a place as small and isolated as this – even Miss Marple had to leave her village sometimes, and Jessica Fletcher didn’t spend all her time in Cabot Cove (much to the relief of the inhabitants, I imagine). And next time I hope he’ll listen politely to his publisher’s advice, and then ignore it. The tricky second book is over – I’ll be looking forward to the third.
NB This book was provided for review by the publisher, HarperCollins via NetGalley.
Ex-detective Jake Jackson is still living the life of a semi-hermit in the house his uncle left him. But he has gradually made friends with some of the locals and his relationship with Livia has deepened in the year or so since we left them at the end of the first book in the series, Death Under a Little Sky. One of the people he has stayed friendly with is Inspector Watson, whom he worked with in the previous investigation. Now Inspector Watson has come to him seeking help. A little girl is missing, probably abducted, and a card left at the scene bore the name No Taboo. When Watson searched police records, Jake’s name came up – years before he had investigated a cold case concerning another missing child and again the name No Taboo had come up in the course of the investigation. Jake tells Watson he didn’t manage to find out who or what No Taboo was, but agrees to talk to his old researcher, Aletheia, who still works with the police. It turns out Aletheia has learned a little more about No Taboo since then, just enough to put them all in danger…
I loved Death Under a Little Sky so much that it won the FF Award for Crime Fiction (on my blog) last year. In particular it was the depth of the characterisation that I admired, both of Jake himself as a damaged man using solitude as a means of healing, and gradually of the various people who make up this small rural community. The writing was beautiful as Abell showed Jake developing a love of nature, learning the joys of growing his own food and making things with his own hands. This second book has some of those elements too, especially the descriptions of Jake’s continuing need for solitude. But this time the plot is far-fetched and somehow doesn’t suit the thoughtful atmosphere. We’re no longer involved in the intimate lives of the small group of locals – now we’re suddenly dealing with an evil organisation of caricatured baddies catering to the perverted desires of the very rich. I’m afraid it feels like a complete mismatch between style and content. Intriguingly, Abell tells us in his afterword that he originally intended for the book to be a kind of country house mystery, but he was advised by his publishing team to go down this route instead. Bad advice, in my opinion, and another example of why I feel authors should fight to go with their own intuition, especially if they’ve already had a successful book.
Abell is clearly a lover of detective fiction, especially, though not exclusively, of the vintage kind. He’s given that love to his character too, so there are loads of references to books and authors, which is always fun for fellow mystery lovers. In that spirit, I’d say this book has more the feel of an Edgar Wallace, or perhaps even an Ian Fleming, than a Christie or Sayers. Right back from my introduction to Moriarty as a child, I have always had difficulty with the concept of the evil genius who runs an organisation that reaches its tentacles into every layer of the establishment but remains entirely invisible, so part of my struggle with this one is due to my subjective scepticism.
I’m also rather tired of “genius” misfits (cf. Mallory or Lisbeth Salander, for example) who can find any and all information on the “dark web”, negating the need for much real investigation. This book has one such genius, Martha, who left me feeling that since she could find out everything about No Taboo in the space of a few days it couldn’t have been very well hidden after all. Between the evil genius and the good genius, I didn’t feel Jake got much of a look-in as an investigator, and so had to become a combination of messenger-boy and muscle-bound action man instead.
I feel I’m in danger of being too critical, probably because my expectations were too high. There’s much to enjoy in the book in terms of the writing and Jake continues to be an interesting character, though I feel his hermit-like existence has probably been played out now and is in danger of becoming repetitive. I’d actually like to see Abell move away from these characters and/or this setting now. There is a limit to how often a murder or a conspiracy can happen in a place as small and isolated as this – even Miss Marple had to leave her village sometimes, and Jessica Fletcher didn’t spend all her time in Cabot Cove (much to the relief of the inhabitants, I imagine). And next time I hope he’ll listen politely to his publisher’s advice, and then ignore it. The tricky second book is over – I’ll be looking forward to the third.
NB This book was provided for review by the publisher, HarperCollins via NetGalley.
February 12, 2024
Stig Abell’s Death Under a Little Sky was one of my favourite novels last year and I was really excited to be able to read this new book about ex detective Jake Johnson.
The setting is still the same as Jake is continuing to live his remote lifestyle in the isolated farmhouse somewhere in the countryside and the author again does a brilliant job of conveying the isolation and beauty around Jake’s home.
However, the mystery took a very different turn in this book. Whereas the previous book was very much about the local area and people, this one is concerned with organised crime and corruption and has a very different feel. The plot felt very far-fetched and I didn’t enjoy the mystery as much as the previous one.
I didn’t really connect with any of the new characters with the exception of Martha. I did enjoy the interactions between her and Jake and their shared love of crime fiction. Jake’s relationship with Livia continues to develop but their frequent bursts of passion at times seemed to be an unnecessary interruption to the story.
This was still a very readable mystery thriller but not in the same league as Stig Abell’s earlier book.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers, Harper Collins UK, for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The setting is still the same as Jake is continuing to live his remote lifestyle in the isolated farmhouse somewhere in the countryside and the author again does a brilliant job of conveying the isolation and beauty around Jake’s home.
However, the mystery took a very different turn in this book. Whereas the previous book was very much about the local area and people, this one is concerned with organised crime and corruption and has a very different feel. The plot felt very far-fetched and I didn’t enjoy the mystery as much as the previous one.
I didn’t really connect with any of the new characters with the exception of Martha. I did enjoy the interactions between her and Jake and their shared love of crime fiction. Jake’s relationship with Livia continues to develop but their frequent bursts of passion at times seemed to be an unnecessary interruption to the story.
This was still a very readable mystery thriller but not in the same league as Stig Abell’s earlier book.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publishers, Harper Collins UK, for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 19, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: July 2, 2024
“Death in a Lonely Place” is the second novel in the Jake Jackson police procedural series by Stig Abell. In “Place”, Jake is now a permanent resident in the small idyllic country village of Caelum Parvum, spending time caring for his chickens and living off the grid in the small home named Little Sky while maintaining a relationship with local vet, Livia. Although officially retired from the police force, Jake can’t seem to put the detective side of him to bed, and he finds himself embroiled in yet another investigation. A case from Jake’s past resurfaces and soon, Jake finds himself embroiled in the shady world of “No Taboo”, a clandestine group of uber wealthy elites, where anything they desire can be bought and sold, no matter how legal it is. Desperate to find out who’s behind No Taboo, and how to end it, Jake once again puts his life at risk to find the answers to questions important people do not want him asking.
Abell’s first Jake Jackson novel, “Death Under a Little Sky”, introduced readers to Jake Jackson and his reclusive ways. I thoroughly enjoyed “Sky”, the community and Jake’s off-the-grid ways, and was thrilled that Abell once again brought Little Sky to life with a new story. Like most police procedurals, “Place” is a novel you can read as a stand-alone, but it is best experienced as a series, read in order.
No Taboo is a terrifying group of super wealthy, uber elites who can have anything they want, including murder and any level of sexual gratification (with any gender or age), for the right place. Although for the sake of this story, this group is fictional, it is not much of a stretch to see the believability and realism in this group, which made me root for its demise even more. Jake and Livia have returned in this novel, now in a more permanent relationship, but there are some new characters that Jake introduces through his investigation, and I hope to be seeing more of them in future works as well!
It is difficult to make police procedurals stand out, as their layout is pretty much the same, but Abell has managed to do so. Little Sky and its community, off the grid and cut off from the world, is unique and Jake, and his reclusive ways, is a strong protagonist that is relatable and humble. This novel delivered an unexpected twist at the end as well, which took me by surprise. Abell brought the plot lines in “Place” to a succinct and complete conclusion, while still leaving just enough to tease readers for his next Jake Jackson novel, which I can’t wait to read.
Expected publication date: July 2, 2024
“Death in a Lonely Place” is the second novel in the Jake Jackson police procedural series by Stig Abell. In “Place”, Jake is now a permanent resident in the small idyllic country village of Caelum Parvum, spending time caring for his chickens and living off the grid in the small home named Little Sky while maintaining a relationship with local vet, Livia. Although officially retired from the police force, Jake can’t seem to put the detective side of him to bed, and he finds himself embroiled in yet another investigation. A case from Jake’s past resurfaces and soon, Jake finds himself embroiled in the shady world of “No Taboo”, a clandestine group of uber wealthy elites, where anything they desire can be bought and sold, no matter how legal it is. Desperate to find out who’s behind No Taboo, and how to end it, Jake once again puts his life at risk to find the answers to questions important people do not want him asking.
Abell’s first Jake Jackson novel, “Death Under a Little Sky”, introduced readers to Jake Jackson and his reclusive ways. I thoroughly enjoyed “Sky”, the community and Jake’s off-the-grid ways, and was thrilled that Abell once again brought Little Sky to life with a new story. Like most police procedurals, “Place” is a novel you can read as a stand-alone, but it is best experienced as a series, read in order.
No Taboo is a terrifying group of super wealthy, uber elites who can have anything they want, including murder and any level of sexual gratification (with any gender or age), for the right place. Although for the sake of this story, this group is fictional, it is not much of a stretch to see the believability and realism in this group, which made me root for its demise even more. Jake and Livia have returned in this novel, now in a more permanent relationship, but there are some new characters that Jake introduces through his investigation, and I hope to be seeing more of them in future works as well!
It is difficult to make police procedurals stand out, as their layout is pretty much the same, but Abell has managed to do so. Little Sky and its community, off the grid and cut off from the world, is unique and Jake, and his reclusive ways, is a strong protagonist that is relatable and humble. This novel delivered an unexpected twist at the end as well, which took me by surprise. Abell brought the plot lines in “Place” to a succinct and complete conclusion, while still leaving just enough to tease readers for his next Jake Jackson novel, which I can’t wait to read.
April 13, 2024
Written partly as an homage to detective fiction, this second installment in the Jake Jackson series has cemented my vow to pursue this series avidly.
Former London police detective Jake Jackson is now firmly ensconced in his new rural home - he is a changed man. He is very fit and self-sufficient. Having no television, internet, or even phone service gives Jake the solitude and isolation he craves. He is one with nature. He swims in his own lake, runs on his own acreage, and reads from his new and extensive library of crime fiction that his uncle bequeathed to him.
Jake's relationship with the lovely Livia, the local vet, has gained some permanence since the previous book. She regularly shares is bed. She and her eight year old daughter Diana have become precious members of Jake's family.
Through his local policeman friend Watson (whom we met in the previous book) he is made aware of 'No Taboo'. This seems to be a service for the ultra wealthy, ultra immoral, conscienceless elite few who desire to experience things that are illegal and depraved. Like feeling how it would be to murder someone, how it feels to have sex with a snatched child, etc. Despicable stuff. Jake suspects that some of his old cold cases from when he was working could be linked to this 'No Taboo'. Now, he knows that if he pursues the investigation he will maybe jeopardize his relationship with Livia... Jake is torn...
This crime novel will be especially attractive to bibliophiles, as there are myriad references to classic detective fiction scattered throughout the novel. It did stray into territory that might make the reader uncomfortable AND there were parts of the book that felt almost like an action-thriller movie. Not what I was expecting from Jake's idyllic country life.
Despite this, the stellar writing and excellent characterization kept me riveted throughout. I didn't love it as much as I loved "Death Under A Little Sky", but still I can confidently recommend it. A series to keep on your radar.
Former London police detective Jake Jackson is now firmly ensconced in his new rural home - he is a changed man. He is very fit and self-sufficient. Having no television, internet, or even phone service gives Jake the solitude and isolation he craves. He is one with nature. He swims in his own lake, runs on his own acreage, and reads from his new and extensive library of crime fiction that his uncle bequeathed to him.
Jake's relationship with the lovely Livia, the local vet, has gained some permanence since the previous book. She regularly shares is bed. She and her eight year old daughter Diana have become precious members of Jake's family.
Through his local policeman friend Watson (whom we met in the previous book) he is made aware of 'No Taboo'. This seems to be a service for the ultra wealthy, ultra immoral, conscienceless elite few who desire to experience things that are illegal and depraved. Like feeling how it would be to murder someone, how it feels to have sex with a snatched child, etc. Despicable stuff. Jake suspects that some of his old cold cases from when he was working could be linked to this 'No Taboo'. Now, he knows that if he pursues the investigation he will maybe jeopardize his relationship with Livia... Jake is torn...
This crime novel will be especially attractive to bibliophiles, as there are myriad references to classic detective fiction scattered throughout the novel. It did stray into territory that might make the reader uncomfortable AND there were parts of the book that felt almost like an action-thriller movie. Not what I was expecting from Jake's idyllic country life.
Despite this, the stellar writing and excellent characterization kept me riveted throughout. I didn't love it as much as I loved "Death Under A Little Sky", but still I can confidently recommend it. A series to keep on your radar.
March 13, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for an advance reader copy. If you want a synopsis, click on the book.
I read the first book in this series and enjoyed it mostly. This follow-up is not as good for a number of reasons. There are too many descriptions of the countryside, people's smells and classical music. The main character has moved to this country idyll where nothing happens so that he can avoid the rat race. He sorted out a local villain in the last book and in this one, a nefarious mogul moves in not too far away. The thread in this idyll has become implausible.
I enjoyed the writing style (apart from all of the descriptions) but, for me, it's a book too far.
I read the first book in this series and enjoyed it mostly. This follow-up is not as good for a number of reasons. There are too many descriptions of the countryside, people's smells and classical music. The main character has moved to this country idyll where nothing happens so that he can avoid the rat race. He sorted out a local villain in the last book and in this one, a nefarious mogul moves in not too far away. The thread in this idyll has become implausible.
I enjoyed the writing style (apart from all of the descriptions) but, for me, it's a book too far.
August 4, 2025
Intriguing, intricate, and well paced!
Death in a Lonely Place is an eerie, sinuous tale that takes us back to the British countryside where retired city detective Jake Jackson now finds himself tangled up in an investigation into “No Taboo”, an elite club which services the rich and famous, seemingly catering to whichever depraved or illegal activity they wish to engage in.
The writing is tight and clever. The characters are multifaceted, arrogant, and ruthless. And the plot is an ominous mix of twists, turns, secrets, deduction, mayhem, manipulation, malicious intentions, trafficking, perversion, violence, and murder.
Overall, Death in a Lonely Place is another entertaining, disturbing, edgy addition to the Jake Jackson series by Abell with well-drawn characters and a compelling storyline.
Death in a Lonely Place is an eerie, sinuous tale that takes us back to the British countryside where retired city detective Jake Jackson now finds himself tangled up in an investigation into “No Taboo”, an elite club which services the rich and famous, seemingly catering to whichever depraved or illegal activity they wish to engage in.
The writing is tight and clever. The characters are multifaceted, arrogant, and ruthless. And the plot is an ominous mix of twists, turns, secrets, deduction, mayhem, manipulation, malicious intentions, trafficking, perversion, violence, and murder.
Overall, Death in a Lonely Place is another entertaining, disturbing, edgy addition to the Jake Jackson series by Abell with well-drawn characters and a compelling storyline.
January 28, 2024
Another brilliant novel from Stig Abell!
This is Abell's second novel and the second novel featuring former detective Jake Jackson. For those who aren't familiar with the series, Jake is a former detective who inherited his uncle's home in the countryside and decided to leave the police for (what he thought might be) a quieter life.
However, despite being relatively cut off from the world, no phone, no internet, no TV, Jake keeps getting dragged back into crimes affecting his new rural community. In DIALP, Jake is tracked down by a police officer who is looking for assistance in a missing persons case. In assisting in this case, Jake uncovers links to a powerful, wealthy community with very few morals who can deliver whatever their wealthy clients want - drugs, sex, death, children. But its clear that this group will do anything to keep Jake quiet, including hurting those close to him.
This is the second novel in the series but, like most, you can read as a standalone but I do think you would be missing quite a significant backstory if you tried to jump into this one without reading Death Under a Little Sky I would definitely encourage you to do so and then go and read this! You can thank me later.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction, Hemlock Press for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
This is Abell's second novel and the second novel featuring former detective Jake Jackson. For those who aren't familiar with the series, Jake is a former detective who inherited his uncle's home in the countryside and decided to leave the police for (what he thought might be) a quieter life.
However, despite being relatively cut off from the world, no phone, no internet, no TV, Jake keeps getting dragged back into crimes affecting his new rural community. In DIALP, Jake is tracked down by a police officer who is looking for assistance in a missing persons case. In assisting in this case, Jake uncovers links to a powerful, wealthy community with very few morals who can deliver whatever their wealthy clients want - drugs, sex, death, children. But its clear that this group will do anything to keep Jake quiet, including hurting those close to him.
This is the second novel in the series but, like most, you can read as a standalone but I do think you would be missing quite a significant backstory if you tried to jump into this one without reading Death Under a Little Sky I would definitely encourage you to do so and then go and read this! You can thank me later.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction, Hemlock Press for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
May 28, 2024
4.0 / 5
Having read the first book and thoroughly enjoyed the experience I was even more delighted when my library had the second book in stock. I’ve enjoyed the way Abell has managed to create a natural, organic but gripping/ thrilling plot. There’s a level of innocence that cannot be recreated in other books which I weirdly find refreshing. With the British countryside in full display, makes me appreciate the weather we have more in a sense!
Former London detective Jake Jackson is enjoying his peaceful remote life when his friend DCI Watson approached him to help out in a missing girl case. Jack is almost transported back to his old days where he’s had a brief encounter with ‘No taboo’- initially this concept is a strange one and hard to phatom. Soon his past and his history reappears to solve another mystery surrounding this clandestine ground no taboo- but how much will this cost him, in terms of his relationships and friendships.
I think what I enjoy most is the balance between his personal life and struggles with his morals. Being torn at doing the right thing, but maintains his boundaries which he struggles a lot on. You see the character development between Livia and Jake which feels very natural and genuine. Overall I’m invested in this series and plot, looking forward to what the future holds!
Having read the first book and thoroughly enjoyed the experience I was even more delighted when my library had the second book in stock. I’ve enjoyed the way Abell has managed to create a natural, organic but gripping/ thrilling plot. There’s a level of innocence that cannot be recreated in other books which I weirdly find refreshing. With the British countryside in full display, makes me appreciate the weather we have more in a sense!
Former London detective Jake Jackson is enjoying his peaceful remote life when his friend DCI Watson approached him to help out in a missing girl case. Jack is almost transported back to his old days where he’s had a brief encounter with ‘No taboo’- initially this concept is a strange one and hard to phatom. Soon his past and his history reappears to solve another mystery surrounding this clandestine ground no taboo- but how much will this cost him, in terms of his relationships and friendships.
I think what I enjoy most is the balance between his personal life and struggles with his morals. Being torn at doing the right thing, but maintains his boundaries which he struggles a lot on. You see the character development between Livia and Jake which feels very natural and genuine. Overall I’m invested in this series and plot, looking forward to what the future holds!
October 29, 2024
I acknowledge my oversight in approaching this novel without the context of "Little Sky," the first book in the series. A fellow book club member advised me that this installment could stand on its own, yet I found myself lacking the background on the protagonist, recently retired policeman Jake Jackson, who seeks solace from the complexities of modern life in an inherited home. When a link emerges between two cold cases from Jake’s past, he becomes embroiled in a local investigation, prompted by a friend, the sheriff, who has discreetly enlisted a colleague's assistance after facing threats. The tension escalates as they navigate this perilous situation, necessitating constant vigilance. However, I found the narrative burdened by excessive detail—distracting descriptions of culinary endeavors, musings on detective fiction, musical interludes, moments spent in the sauna, and the protagonist's fervent romantic escapades with Olivia. Regrettably, I struggled to form a meaningful connection with the characters or the overarching plot. I plan to revisit "Little Sky" to better appreciate the series. 2/5
April 26, 2024
‘I love the fact that you hide yourself away, except when you need to step up and do something.’
One of my most anticipated books of 2024 and it was everything I hoped for. Lonely Place is the second in the Jake Jackson series and follows Death Under a Little Sky which introduced our detective, Jake, and the rural idyll where he has retreated from a failed relationship and a job as detective in the city..All the things I loved are back again - the gorgeous writing which captures the beauty of the landscape so perfectly, the classical music and homage to detective writing, the glorious setting and a story about rural crime which threatens the peace of this paradise..
Jake’s relationship with Livia, a local vet with a young daughter, has progressed although they still live separately. She has a new client, a wealthy landowner with a large stable. They have been invited - or rather they are expected - to attend a weekend function at the house. And crime is once again finding Jake out, this time via an old contact who asks for his help with a current case involving a missing child. This seems to link back to cold cases from Jake’s past and reluctantly Jake finds himself drawn in…
Once again the writing is perfectly paced as we run round Little Sky with Jake, cook lunch, snuggle up with Livia and listen to classical music whilst observing gorgeous skylines. And gradually another narrative builds and begins to dominate, a narrative which hints at dark elements, threats, abducted children, trafficking and something called ‘No Taboo’..
This book feels darker. Jake’s paradise feels more fragile with his new found happiness meaning he has more to lose. There is such a sense of tension between his desire to live off grid, without a telephone, in an isolated rural area and the demands of a new family who need stronger attachments, and the dangers which lurk around even the most idyllic spot. And of course things always feel more dangerous in a ‘lonely place’!
I loved this. I listened to the playlist and searched out landscapes which replicated the cover and I wished myself into Jake’s landscape.
One of my most anticipated books of 2024 and it was everything I hoped for. Lonely Place is the second in the Jake Jackson series and follows Death Under a Little Sky which introduced our detective, Jake, and the rural idyll where he has retreated from a failed relationship and a job as detective in the city..All the things I loved are back again - the gorgeous writing which captures the beauty of the landscape so perfectly, the classical music and homage to detective writing, the glorious setting and a story about rural crime which threatens the peace of this paradise..
Jake’s relationship with Livia, a local vet with a young daughter, has progressed although they still live separately. She has a new client, a wealthy landowner with a large stable. They have been invited - or rather they are expected - to attend a weekend function at the house. And crime is once again finding Jake out, this time via an old contact who asks for his help with a current case involving a missing child. This seems to link back to cold cases from Jake’s past and reluctantly Jake finds himself drawn in…
Once again the writing is perfectly paced as we run round Little Sky with Jake, cook lunch, snuggle up with Livia and listen to classical music whilst observing gorgeous skylines. And gradually another narrative builds and begins to dominate, a narrative which hints at dark elements, threats, abducted children, trafficking and something called ‘No Taboo’..
This book feels darker. Jake’s paradise feels more fragile with his new found happiness meaning he has more to lose. There is such a sense of tension between his desire to live off grid, without a telephone, in an isolated rural area and the demands of a new family who need stronger attachments, and the dangers which lurk around even the most idyllic spot. And of course things always feel more dangerous in a ‘lonely place’!
I loved this. I listened to the playlist and searched out landscapes which replicated the cover and I wished myself into Jake’s landscape.
March 11, 2025
My find of his year. The second in a wonderful tranquil location where a threat hangs over Jake and the new life he is forging in splendid isolation.
As an ex-detective he has gained a connection with a local police officer, Chief Inspector Watson during the mystery they solved in the first book. Now Watson approaches Jake for help on another case which has links to his own former police work and a couple of unsolved cases he was involved with. This leads them into a confrontation with a criminal organisation, No Taboo, where money seems able to buy any desire. From sexual abuse to the thrill of murder, without the fear of discovery or repercussion in law.
A conspiracy seemingly infiltrating the higher levels of the establishment and with influence within the police and legal systems. A cancer Jake confronts, risking his independence, new relationships and placing his own life in danger.
As before, I really enjoyed the countryside location; the idealism of a life outside the elements of social media, fake news and societal demands for perceived success and normality. This place of isolation is both a benefit and a curse as his property is so off the grid, roads and Sat nav cannot take you there; it is almost too out of the way; like outer space, where someone once said, “no-one can hear you scream”.
This paradox of gaining independence but losing control plays out again in this novel but the stakes have been raised and the power and money behind No Taboo are not playing games.
Loved the repeat character appearances and the development of relationships and the path of Jake’s journey. The author clearly loves this genre and I love the constant reminders to crime fiction and the peaceful relaxation of the classical play list that is the background music in Jake’s life.
Book 3 is out shortly, If these standards are maintained I simply can’t wait and plunge into the next Stig Abell thriller, The Burial Place, due out 27th March 2025.
As an ex-detective he has gained a connection with a local police officer, Chief Inspector Watson during the mystery they solved in the first book. Now Watson approaches Jake for help on another case which has links to his own former police work and a couple of unsolved cases he was involved with. This leads them into a confrontation with a criminal organisation, No Taboo, where money seems able to buy any desire. From sexual abuse to the thrill of murder, without the fear of discovery or repercussion in law.
A conspiracy seemingly infiltrating the higher levels of the establishment and with influence within the police and legal systems. A cancer Jake confronts, risking his independence, new relationships and placing his own life in danger.
As before, I really enjoyed the countryside location; the idealism of a life outside the elements of social media, fake news and societal demands for perceived success and normality. This place of isolation is both a benefit and a curse as his property is so off the grid, roads and Sat nav cannot take you there; it is almost too out of the way; like outer space, where someone once said, “no-one can hear you scream”.
This paradox of gaining independence but losing control plays out again in this novel but the stakes have been raised and the power and money behind No Taboo are not playing games.
Loved the repeat character appearances and the development of relationships and the path of Jake’s journey. The author clearly loves this genre and I love the constant reminders to crime fiction and the peaceful relaxation of the classical play list that is the background music in Jake’s life.
Book 3 is out shortly, If these standards are maintained I simply can’t wait and plunge into the next Stig Abell thriller, The Burial Place, due out 27th March 2025.
July 9, 2024
Death In A Lonely Place is the second book in the Jake Jackson series, but I think it reads as a solid standalone. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything crucial by not reading the first book, but I do plan on reading it anyway.
The book reads like a PBS mystery miniseries, with its solid, but clean mystery. There is one notable gross moment, but the author is very good at getting details out without getting descriptive. Even the sex scenes are quick and not vulgar. I found this style of writing so strange for what the subject matter becomes about. It’s incredibly hard to cover the underworld of dark desires without getting dark, yet Stig Abell did it. It’s a solid mystery, complete with super sleuthing team, unique villains, and a shocking end reveal.
Setting is absolutely everything in this book. Normally I don’t have the patience for the attention to detail that the author gets into with this story, but I found myself getting lost within it. The isolated countryside of Caelum Parvum. The added map at the beginning of the book is a nice touch, giving some perspective of where Jake gets around. I would want to retire in the little town as well.
I am normally a dark thriller lover, but I found this style of writing a nice change. I recommend this to those who enjoy a slower pace, character quirky mystery with attention to detail.
The book reads like a PBS mystery miniseries, with its solid, but clean mystery. There is one notable gross moment, but the author is very good at getting details out without getting descriptive. Even the sex scenes are quick and not vulgar. I found this style of writing so strange for what the subject matter becomes about. It’s incredibly hard to cover the underworld of dark desires without getting dark, yet Stig Abell did it. It’s a solid mystery, complete with super sleuthing team, unique villains, and a shocking end reveal.
Setting is absolutely everything in this book. Normally I don’t have the patience for the attention to detail that the author gets into with this story, but I found myself getting lost within it. The isolated countryside of Caelum Parvum. The added map at the beginning of the book is a nice touch, giving some perspective of where Jake gets around. I would want to retire in the little town as well.
I am normally a dark thriller lover, but I found this style of writing a nice change. I recommend this to those who enjoy a slower pace, character quirky mystery with attention to detail.
May 20, 2024
Lots of excitement after a slow start.
May 7, 2025
This has a stronger story than the first one, although perhaps the amount of easy explanations for getting out of sticky situations stretches the credibility a little too thinly, but it doesn’t really affect the enjoyment or detract from the quality of the writing.
March 12, 2024
Jake Jackson is still living his rural dream, and enjoying a relationship with Livia the vet.
I still find the whole concept of his rural idyll very unlikely and impractical, but that’s fiction.
Not many villagers made it from the first book, and a whole raft of new characters have been introduced.
This book starts as a country house mystery complete with invitations, and descriptions of guests, before veering into a conspiracy theory mystery involving a cartel of very rich people, and the secret service.
It was a good read, as a one-off but the author needs to decide what he is writing, the first book was “cosy crime”, this one was definitely not, and one expects some sort of continuity if there are to be ongoing characters across each story.
I also found the playlist referring to the music in the book unnecessary and annoying.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
I still find the whole concept of his rural idyll very unlikely and impractical, but that’s fiction.
Not many villagers made it from the first book, and a whole raft of new characters have been introduced.
This book starts as a country house mystery complete with invitations, and descriptions of guests, before veering into a conspiracy theory mystery involving a cartel of very rich people, and the secret service.
It was a good read, as a one-off but the author needs to decide what he is writing, the first book was “cosy crime”, this one was definitely not, and one expects some sort of continuity if there are to be ongoing characters across each story.
I also found the playlist referring to the music in the book unnecessary and annoying.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
July 22, 2024
Not as good as the first one. Disappointing.
April 22, 2025
I was eager to read the second of this series since I really enjoyed the first. This story follows former cop, Jake, as he builds a new life on a remote acreage near a small village. His desire to leave the rat race and technology behind competes with the adrenaline of solving a case. He’s drawn back into investigative mode on a missing child case. He has a good relationship with a local lady, but going back into dangerous situations threatens to end that balance. The pacing and tension for the story is a slow build, meandering, much like the new life Jake is attempting to create. I enjoyed the descriptive details, setting and atmosphere. While I enjoyed it anyone looking for fast-paced thriller mystery won’t find it here. I found myself immersed in an unfamiliar terrain and enjoyed the details of everything. The case kept me searching for clues and trying to solve who the perpetrator was. I look forward to more about Jake in the series.
April 24, 2024
This is book 2 of the Detective Jake Jackson series.
Jake is living off grid, quite comfortably, enjoying his peaceful life. Until he becomes embroiled in a major criminal case. With the help of friends, ex colleagues and his girlfriend he is determined to get justice even if it means putting himself and the ones he loves in danger.
I loved the characters and the way they are introduced from the last book. Nice to see familiar characters. They seem to click in the right places.
The plot was good even if I found myself asking "I know he's living off grid, but if he's taking on cases, why not just get a phone?"
The pace and tension was good. Plenty of twists and turns but watch out for those red herrings. All in all a good read. Interested to see what's next for Jake.
Jake is living off grid, quite comfortably, enjoying his peaceful life. Until he becomes embroiled in a major criminal case. With the help of friends, ex colleagues and his girlfriend he is determined to get justice even if it means putting himself and the ones he loves in danger.
I loved the characters and the way they are introduced from the last book. Nice to see familiar characters. They seem to click in the right places.
The plot was good even if I found myself asking "I know he's living off grid, but if he's taking on cases, why not just get a phone?"
The pace and tension was good. Plenty of twists and turns but watch out for those red herrings. All in all a good read. Interested to see what's next for Jake.
February 5, 2025
Actually rated 4.5 stars. Only able to find on audio, narrated by Oliver Hembrough. This was almost the first 5-star book of the year for me, but some parts were too awful and intense. Examples (without giving away spoilers): the photographic evidence Jake finds of crimes and the scene in the priests hole. Abell does an excellent job of building tension. At first, the country house party seemed contrived and ridiculous, but by the end I was so anxious for Jake and Olivia to just get out of there!
There were just enough scenes where I could feel victorious in figuring out a detail while enjoying surprises and all the suspense along the way. I found the ending to be completely satisfying.
There were just enough scenes where I could feel victorious in figuring out a detail while enjoying surprises and all the suspense along the way. I found the ending to be completely satisfying.
January 24, 2024
Stig Abell is fast becoming one of my favourite author.
I loved his first novel, Death Under a Little Sky, and this one continues the story of Little Sky, Jake and Livia.
A wonderful read, intriguing plot, and wonderful descriptions of the world around Little Sky, full of twists and unexpected situations, I found it hard to put down.
Highly recommend!
My thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy in return for an honest review.
I loved his first novel, Death Under a Little Sky, and this one continues the story of Little Sky, Jake and Livia.
A wonderful read, intriguing plot, and wonderful descriptions of the world around Little Sky, full of twists and unexpected situations, I found it hard to put down.
Highly recommend!
My thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy in return for an honest review.
April 20, 2025
Ex detective Jake Jackson wants to live a quiet, off-grid life in his inherited farmhouse but is drawn back into his old world when asked to help solve a child abduction. The only clue is an enigmatic message on a card left at the scene which suggests a link to earlier unsolved cases and a sinister group called No Taboo.
If there’s such a genre as literary crime fiction then this definitely qualifies. There’s some powerful description of the countryside in the depths of winter. As with Abell’s first book the characters are well-rounded and the plot is satisfyingly complex, building to a final showdown. The ending feels slightly anticlimactic, however.
If there’s such a genre as literary crime fiction then this definitely qualifies. There’s some powerful description of the countryside in the depths of winter. As with Abell’s first book the characters are well-rounded and the plot is satisfyingly complex, building to a final showdown. The ending feels slightly anticlimactic, however.
September 14, 2024
I really enjoyed the second installation of this series, and will endeavour to read every one of them written.
January 12, 2025
This was a great crime thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed. I did however pick the twist at the end.
July 30, 2025
Author is developing and has improved from first book.. bit more mystery
January 30, 2024
The return of ex detective Jake Jackson and the isolated but charismatic Little Sky.
This is the second in the series and is of a similar nature, Jake out in the wilds called on to help DI Watson with an unsolved case. Despite promising his girlfriend Livia he won’t put her or her daughter’s life in jeopardy again, Jake can’t resist the lure of the criminal classes.
Intelligently written, this is a well crafted though far fetched and predictable novel, that I did enjoy. However, there’s an overwhelming offering of icy, snowy landscapes, wild water swimming, not to mention the Mills and Boon love/romance angle (cringe). It’s too much! No, I’m not a prude but Livia is supposed to be a VERY busy vet yet calls at Little Sky on a whim, or is available when Jake comes calling in the village (poor Cyprian having to witness all that 😱). Knock this on the head and it would be a much better book.
The denouement was very tongue in cheek, but take it with a pinch of salt and enjoy it!
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins UK.
This is the second in the series and is of a similar nature, Jake out in the wilds called on to help DI Watson with an unsolved case. Despite promising his girlfriend Livia he won’t put her or her daughter’s life in jeopardy again, Jake can’t resist the lure of the criminal classes.
Intelligently written, this is a well crafted though far fetched and predictable novel, that I did enjoy. However, there’s an overwhelming offering of icy, snowy landscapes, wild water swimming, not to mention the Mills and Boon love/romance angle (cringe). It’s too much! No, I’m not a prude but Livia is supposed to be a VERY busy vet yet calls at Little Sky on a whim, or is available when Jake comes calling in the village (poor Cyprian having to witness all that 😱). Knock this on the head and it would be a much better book.
The denouement was very tongue in cheek, but take it with a pinch of salt and enjoy it!
Thank you NetGalley and Harper Collins UK.
January 17, 2024
This is a sequel I was waiting for, and it did not disappoint. Stig Abell is back with his beautifully descriptive writing, painting the picture of the countryside that we all would love to live in.
We are back at Big Sky, the beautiful and expansive retreat where former Detective Jake Jackson lives a very simple and physical lifestyle. One that is so very different from his former life in London working cold cases. He has Big Sky exactly as he wants it, he has a working relationship with the gorgeous Vet Liv and her daughter Diana. It is the nature-loving paradise he never knew he wanted, with his library of detective thrillers, and his Uncles record collection.
But out of nowhere, a child kidnapping brings back vibes from two of his cold cases, ones that he was never able to close, and have stuck with him for years. And once they are back open in his head, he is pulled into a twisting game of dark decadent deeds that leaves a string of victims in its wake.
The book is another amazing story, beautifully told, once again leaving me wanting more.
We are back at Big Sky, the beautiful and expansive retreat where former Detective Jake Jackson lives a very simple and physical lifestyle. One that is so very different from his former life in London working cold cases. He has Big Sky exactly as he wants it, he has a working relationship with the gorgeous Vet Liv and her daughter Diana. It is the nature-loving paradise he never knew he wanted, with his library of detective thrillers, and his Uncles record collection.
But out of nowhere, a child kidnapping brings back vibes from two of his cold cases, ones that he was never able to close, and have stuck with him for years. And once they are back open in his head, he is pulled into a twisting game of dark decadent deeds that leaves a string of victims in its wake.
The book is another amazing story, beautifully told, once again leaving me wanting more.
February 22, 2024
This one wasn’t for me, I’m afraid. Too slow, overly descriptive and repetitive, and also a little hard to pinpoint what it was trying to be. Interestingly, in the acknowledgments the author says he was originally planning to write a country house mystery but his editors told him it needed to take place more in the village and I think that was possibly part of the problem for me. The whole set up at the start centred around the country house but then veered off suddenly and seemed to be more a scandi noir with constant emphasis on the weather and landscape before veering back to the house and the two just didn’t hang together well. Many of the problems I had with the book could have been editorial decisions as much as the writer, to be honest.
For me there was far too much description of Jake, the main character (particularly his exercise regime, constant cold showers and saunas, and what he’s cooking) and it just took away from the pace of the drama. Throughout the book there’s constant reference to his desire to be retired and off grid but he’s immediately drawn into the mystery and when he has to perform some actual investigation, he’s utterly hopeless, despite everyone talking about how much his skill is needed.
The secondary characters are hardly developed at all. We get a little bit about their appearance but almost nothing about them as people and the characters in the country house are hardly brought to life at all. Instead we have a double amputee helping the investigation (somewhere between Lisbeth Salander and Lincoln Rhyme) who literally mentions her lack of legs every time she talks. A prostitute at the house party is exactly the same. Rather than develop the characters at the party, the main character gets a file with descriptions of them all and a map of the house – it’s partially explained but also seems a really lazy way to get around building character.
Dialogue between characters is also very ham fisted. Calling someone lovey, duck, wifey or chief does not establish a relationship as well as people talking normally would. The plot itself is slow, too many people involved are far too inept to have created what is supposed to be a huge conspiracy at the highest level and there is an awful lot of reliance on coincidence.
Crime fiction is obviously important to the author and he makes references to it throughout in quite a clumsy manner. Rather than trusting that anyone reading this book might have some background knowledge themselves, for example, it’s all spelled out. So when Jake and Martha, the double amputee, create a system of finishing their messages to each other with the name of a writer of crime fiction to prove all is well, it then includes a little description of who they were, which just bogs things down again.
It's obviously very personal which books we enjoy – a lot of this one didn’t work for me but may well appeal more to others. 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
For me there was far too much description of Jake, the main character (particularly his exercise regime, constant cold showers and saunas, and what he’s cooking) and it just took away from the pace of the drama. Throughout the book there’s constant reference to his desire to be retired and off grid but he’s immediately drawn into the mystery and when he has to perform some actual investigation, he’s utterly hopeless, despite everyone talking about how much his skill is needed.
The secondary characters are hardly developed at all. We get a little bit about their appearance but almost nothing about them as people and the characters in the country house are hardly brought to life at all. Instead we have a double amputee helping the investigation (somewhere between Lisbeth Salander and Lincoln Rhyme) who literally mentions her lack of legs every time she talks. A prostitute at the house party is exactly the same. Rather than develop the characters at the party, the main character gets a file with descriptions of them all and a map of the house – it’s partially explained but also seems a really lazy way to get around building character.
Dialogue between characters is also very ham fisted. Calling someone lovey, duck, wifey or chief does not establish a relationship as well as people talking normally would. The plot itself is slow, too many people involved are far too inept to have created what is supposed to be a huge conspiracy at the highest level and there is an awful lot of reliance on coincidence.
Crime fiction is obviously important to the author and he makes references to it throughout in quite a clumsy manner. Rather than trusting that anyone reading this book might have some background knowledge themselves, for example, it’s all spelled out. So when Jake and Martha, the double amputee, create a system of finishing their messages to each other with the name of a writer of crime fiction to prove all is well, it then includes a little description of who they were, which just bogs things down again.
It's obviously very personal which books we enjoy – a lot of this one didn’t work for me but may well appeal more to others. 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
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