Bad Moon Over London

The Hunter and Higashi Mysteries #3

by S.J. Cullen

Panic grips the streets of London as a deranged killer begins targeting high-profile influencers.

At the same time, Jessica Hunter is back in her hometown for the holidays, accompanied by her schoolfriend Kenta Higashi. While Jessica grows restless during her summer course at King's College, Kenta is captivated by his first visit to London and its endless attractions. Seeking a distraction, Jessica throws herself into the murder case that has left the police baffled.

But as the influencer murders draw Jessica and Kenta deeper into their sinister orbit, the young sleuths are thrust into unexpected worlds—from the nocturnal realm of urban explorers to the shadowy circles of London's elite celebrities.

With the media in a frenzy and the city's eyes fixed on who the killer's next victim might be, Jessica and Kenta uncover a mystery darker than anything they've faced before—one that pits them against a foe more twisted and deadly than they could have imagined.

Genres: Young Adult, Thriller

586 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 14, 2024

About the author

S.J. Cullen has never murdered anyone, nor has he ever solved a real-life crime. He has, however, been an international schoolteacher in Asia, so his stories about Hunter and Higashi, a crime-solving duo who attend a British school in Japan, are not completely pulled out of thin air.

He is originally from the North of England, though now lives in Stellenbosch, a lovely historical town in South Africa. The Hunter and Higashi Mystery series represents an attempt to combine his experiences teaching abroad with a love of thrillers and mysteries.

You can learn more and receive a free mystery thriller at www.SJCullen.com

Be sure to follow S.J. on Bookbub for news on the latest releases https://bit.ly/4dBv02U

Reviews

[Mike 'Michał' D-i · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of the book from the Publisher, and what follows is my honest and unbiased review.

Peaceful summertime is no more as an unknown perpetrator starts targeting famous influencers in London. The Metropolitan Police launch an investigation, while the killing spree continues. Two teenagers, Jessica Hunter and Kenta Higashi, having previously proved they are more than capable of saving the day, pick up the trail and put their own safety on the line by trying to get to the bottom of their third big case.

Having read the previous adventures of the two amateur sleuths, I was really excited to follow their latest story. I was wondering how the change of location, from Japan to England, would work for the series; I believe that setting the story in Jessica's hometown, London, provided the Author with fresh, new storytelling opportunities, and turned out to be a great decision.

I really appreciate how accurately the author portrays European fascination with Asian culture, which oftentimes superficially revolves around manga, anime, J- & K-pop, and sushi, especially among the youth. Moreover, the Author uses a good combination of contemporary themes in the story: the omnipresence of social media and influencers, urban exploration, as well as serious social problems such as chauvinism and racial prejudices – they’re all explored in the book.

The latest adventure introduces a couple of new characters, all of whom are really well-written and truly meaningful to the story. For instance, Imogen, Kenta’s fellow LSE student, who at first appears to be a rather stereotypical posh girl interested in him just because of his nationality, quickly becomes an important, more complex and highly likeable character. It is no different with Jessica's Aunt Clara, who initially assumes the role of a rather indifferent ‘babysitter’ looking after Jessica and Kenta, only to turn out to be an incredibly intriguing character (and my personal favorite, I might add).

I also liked how different the protagonists’ personalities are. On the one hand, there is Jessica, who is always ready to put herself in danger to crack a case; Kenta, on the other hand, is a rather play-it-safe kind of guy, who eventually can't resist the thrill of joining Jessica when things get rough. Their friendship is definitely a unique one, which makes the detective duo stand out from other YA crime fiction novels.

As for the mystery itself, I found the book to be a gripping and fast-paced read, full of twists, turns, and false leads designed to make the reader think they can figure everything out before reaching the end of the story. This worked very well, and on reaching the denouement, I was in for a big surprise.

Last but not least, I enjoy the author's writing style. Short yet intense chapters, skillfully intertwining all the subplots and characters’ paths, coupled with a great range of lexis, make for a compelling read that is really hard to put down.

Overall, I believe Bad Moon Over London is a great addition to the Hunter and Higashi Mysteries series. Although originally intended for young adults, I believe its fast pace, great cast of characters, and the great writing style will appeal to older crime fiction enthusiasts as well. Although it can be read as a standalone novel (no obnoxious cliffhangers there), I recommend picking up the first two adventures to get more familiar with the protagonists.

Bottom line? This moon shines bright! 5/5!

[Gabrielle (belle.bookcorner) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual Rating: 4.5⭐

It’s good to be back with the Hunter and Higashi duo, the smart teen detectives!
Trouble and danger seem to always follow them, even when they travel to the other side of the world!

The storyline is fascinating to follow, especially with the change of scenery — this time their adventure takes place in London.
The writing style is easy to read and the settings are beautifully described, making me feel like I was there, walking through the streets and exploring London.

The new set of characters is a great addition to the series. There’s Jessica’s aunt, who’s more than meets the eye — she’s a total badass!
Deji is another interesting character, introducing the readers to urban exploration, which adds another layer of danger and action to the current case.

The mystery element keeps me on the edge of my seat, and the short chapters kept my eyes glued to my Kindle from start to finish!
I didn’t even bother making theories; I just sat back and enjoy the investigation led by these characters, culminating in the big reveal at the end.

Overall, this was a captivating and thrilling read; the change of scenery was a great touch to this series!
I’m excited to continue reading this series with a novella and book 4 coming out in 2025!

I received an advanced review copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!

[Charlotte Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of the book early by the publisher however my review below is entirely my own opinion:

Wow! Yet again S.J I was captivated with the two detectives Jessica and Kenta. I was excited to see how London was going to be described as one of the biggest pluses that S.J can do is set a scene, how he described Japan had me in love and seeing the beauty through his words, how he described London almost in a dual way from Jessica and Kenta was even more so captivating
Once again I was up late pouring myself into this world I didn’t want to leave from. We see a few new characters that each bring new personalities to the table.
Reading our two sleuth detectives try to not only deal with school yet solve such a big crime once again has the twists I never suspect even when I go back and try to see the signs.
I’ve said before it reminds me of a young Sherlock and Watson and I will forever stand by this, if you like detective type books it really is something that should be tried.
I am so excited to see where they will go next and what they will have to solve together.

[Emziethebookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 3 was so amazingly hard to put down once a got into it fully a mean wow amazing.
The plot was just superb for book 3 honestly so good, for it being based in London it was truly a good one to be based in.
Old characters were in this one and new ones as well were some of the new ones a was okay with and some I just wasn't.
I honestly can't wait for book 4 it needs to hurry up now, I don't know how long am gonna need to wait for it.

[Glenda Browne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the publisher and I'm I am sharing my genuine thoughts.

I read the first two books in this series because I was going to Japan, and I enjoyed the Japanese settings. I wasn’t sure how this would translate to an English setting, but it turns out that the characters work well in their new environment. (But I am also looking forward to their return to Japan).

Once again the plot kept me reading as quickly as possible till I got to the end. I thought the characters were well-written, and I learnt about an interesting new subculture.

I would have given it 4.5 stars if that was an option. My only hesitancy is to do with some aspects of the plot, which I didn’t quite believe. (But that’s the nature of the genre, I know, so no big deal).

I recommend it to anyone who likes a good story with relatable characters.

[Queda Hutton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance copy of the book but the review is my own thoughts and feelings.
So excited to read this book but when I started it I was confused. But by about chapter 3 it all fell into place! Typical Jessica and Kent’s story, fast paced and had me gripped, I couldn’t put the book down! Lots of twists to keep you guessing.
Lock the door, take the phone off the hook and enjoy!

[Alexandra Jordano · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a pre-release copy of this book, and this review reflects my personal opinion.
Since I had read S.J. Cullen's two previous books, A Curse in Koyoto and The Osaka Syndicate, I was more than thrilled to read Bad Moon Over London. The third installment did not disappoint.
Once again, we meet up with Jessica and Kenta. This time, they are off to London for a summer vacation and some studying. However, it took only a short time for Jessica and Kenta to find out that London had more to offer than sightseeing. Once again, they are deeply involved in a murder mystery.
Kenta made new friends and Jessica met old classmates she wasn't keen on meeting again.
Before they know it, they are deeply involved in a murder case that takes them from posh areas of London and high society to more mundane areas of life.
Jessica, Kenta, and their new friends uncover more clues and keep staying ahead of the police. When the killer(s) finds out about Jessica's involvement, the heat is on.
Meanwhile, it is almost full moon and more people are getting killed.
What does the full moon have to do with the case? What is the connection?
You do not need to read the two previous books to enjoy Bad Moon Over London. But if you like a story within a story, you will not be disappointed by reading it.
This book is fast-paced and is hard to put down. It keeps you guessing who is/are the murderer(s)!
I do very much enjoy London through the author's eyes. The details of different areas of London. The use of British language and expressions. The food. The culture.
S.J Cullen is an excellent author and I can't wait for more books to come.

[Paromita · Rating 4 out of 5]

With Bad Moon, the Hunter and Higashi series as well as the author have given it their best shot yet! The third book is well-written and quite gripping at places, and provides lots and lots of action that's so well described that one can almost see it happening... The venue has shifted to London after Tokyo, where the writer and the main protagonist Jessica Hunter are both at home, and it shows. Interesting plot buildup involving some urbexers (urban explorers, thanks to the authors for introducing them to me, such an exciting hobby, remind me of a time like ours when the really cool thing would be to go spend a night at haunted houses to catch the elusive spirit) who chance upon a gruesome killing, which seems connected to popular influencers on the surface, but is really hiding an old and ghastly secret! Then another murder follows! Hunter and Higashi, spending summer break in London, have to get themselves involved, haven't they! The book has a shot at a movie, I hope someone picks it up! There is a dearth of movies/series for and starring cool teenagers in thrillers/mystery/detecting, the success of A good Girl's guide to murder should be enough clue!
Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an ARC, and this review reflects my honest and unbiased opinion. I am ignoring the typos but perhaps the editing could be a little more mindful of the language style, which seems a curious mix (odd expressions such as as per usual) and some consistency would be good.

[Julie Pritchard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just Wow! What a story!

This latest adventure was filled with so much excitement, suspense and drama, that it kept me guessing all the way. The subject matter of the deadly plot was bang on trend, based around the lives of influencers, social media and the daring extreme sport of urban exploring.

Right from book 1, I've taken a great interest in observing the interaction between Jessica and Kenta, which despite their wide differences in personality, there's a loyalty and unconditional respect for each other's space and safety. It's been interesting too that individually they have developed engaging relationships with additional characters, who have also become involved in helping J & K with their sleuthing. One notable person was the rather surprising Aunt Clara!

I really enjoy the easy flowing narrative and compelling intrigue that gently nudges you along from chapter to chapter, making it hard to put the book down.

I also appreciate the clever little observational touches of normality dotted amongst the action. They allow for welcome moments of light relief from the tension..

I have absolutely loved this Hunter & Higashi series so far and look forward to whatever's coming next from S.J.

I have been privileged to have been sent a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and I'm reviewing it voluntarily.

[Ria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kenta is in London with Jessica studying on a summer course.
But terror is gripping the area as they are plunged headfirst into another case.
A maniac is making it their mission to take down high profile social media influencers.
It's not long before Jessica insists they investigate which leads them down many dark alleys and alternative lifestyles, underground, nocturnal urbexers, the glitterati of high society and social media, the acting fraternity.
Somehow all these strands are connected.
But time is running out as the body count is rising and Jessica, Kenta and a whole host of new friends and allies try to crack this baffling mystery before the next victim winds up dead.
Wow, this was the longest case to date but as usual such a fantastic read.
I love the credibility and modern social relevance to the stories too.
The ride is wild but not beyond the realms of possibilities as some of the situations could easily be all too real.
Brilliant read, can't wait for the next in the series.

[Graham Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a pre-release copy of this book from the publisher and this review reflects my personal opinion.
Bad Moon Over London is the third novel featuring Jessica Hunter & Kenta Higashi who after solving the Curse in Kyoto mystery and later foiling the Osaka Syndicate find themselves in London during their school summer break in Japan where they live. Although they are both enrolled on their separate courses in one of London’s top schools Jessica with the usual reluctant help of Kenta soon finds themselves investigating another crime
I really enjoyed this latest Hunter and Higashi adventure, it certainly has everything, from the many London landmarks, dangerous sporting hobbies, secrets, suspense, and of course murder.
This latest novel shows Jessica developing her investigative skills and taking the somewhat reluctant Kenta with her on this journey. It is an extremely compulsive read with an exciting and gripping story.

[Rudrashree Makwana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of the book and I am reviewing this voluntarily.

This is the third book in a hunter and higashi series and this is the best one. Expect the unexpected as Jessica comes back to her hometown along with Kenta. Their odyssey becomes intense and the murder grips london. Death is looming over it. Kenta and Jessica are trying to get to the bottom of it. While the mystery becomes deeper and the unthinkable keeps happening. There are twists and turns. And there are a couple of new character. This is a gripping and unputdownable mystery/ crime fiction . Author has done a brilliant job. The characters are clever and multifaceted. The setting is beautiful. Love the element of mystery. Suspense was spot on. I definitely recommend it.

[Chris Everson · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book continues all of the things that made the previous books irritating and dials them up to 11.

The characters are cardboard cutouts. One supporting character borders on racist parody. The 'duo' hardly interract, both off with different people. The plot is just ludicrous (influencers being bumped off... a public service, surely?) and there is no tension or jeopardy whatsoever.

Oh... and Shakespeare lived in Stratford-upon-Avon... and NOT Stratford in London. Get the facts right at least! It's a well-known fact.

This allied to the numerous typos in the text, plus the usual missing words and sentences makes it a wholly amateurish affair. I can't understand the high ratings for this one.

[Eddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and I'm reviewing it voluntarily.

The Bad Moon over London is the next book with Jessica and Kenta involved in an exciting adventure. This time they are in London for a summer school break, but fate brings a situation to their attention and that Hunter determination drives them into all sorts of trouble as they pursue the investigation. Kenta needs to have his wits about him as he tries to keep up with Jessica.

The aunt is a myserious character and she has influence on solving the crime.

A really enjoyable read that captured me from beginning to end.

I would highly recommend this book.

[Susan Hogg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first two books in the series but was delighted that the publisher provided me with a copy of this book, and I am sharing my genuine thoughts. The plot was similar to the previous books but with some unexpected twists and turns to keep it interesting and once I started reading it was difficult to put it down. The author's descriptions of London were detailed enough for the reader to imagine being in the setting. The plot and characters kept moving and kept me guessing to the end. It was a most enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more of Hunter and Higashi's exploits in the future.

[Mrs Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a pre-release copy of this book from the publisher and this is my personal, unbiased opinion.

‘Bad Moon Over London’ follows Jessica Hunter & Kenta Higashi on another adventure into detective work. Being an exciting story with several unexpected twists it kept my interest from start to finish.

The reason I chose to read the previous 2 novels was because I had just returned from holiday in Japan. They were both excellent & this one did not disappoint. 🤞I won’t have to wait too long for the next one in this series.

[Denise Wall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Hunter and Higashi at their very best. They just get better and better.
Every book is different but Hunter and Higashi are the same sharp and forward thinking people especially Jessica Hunter.
The added people in this book make it even more special.
I am looking forward to the next chapter of the teenagers antics with much excitement.
The publisher provided me with a copy of this book, and I am sharing my genuine thought.

[Dakota Clayton · Rating 5 out of 5]

The publisher provided me with a copy of this book, and I am sharing my genuine thoughts. The author has yet again crafted a very enjoyable story with a brand new (even larger) cast of engaging characters in a new locale. This book has everything I look for in a good mystery. No matter how much I read, I just want to keep reading more all the way to the end. I look forward to the next installment in the series.

[Nate Caetano · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a review copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Another excellent entry into the Hunter & Higashi mystery series. This is the most complex outing yet and the mystery has twists and turns throughout. You see some interesting development in the characters and the mystery writing remains strong and holds you attention. This series has quickly become one of my favorites and I always look forward to reading a Hunter & Higashi story.

Highly recommend!

[Becky Rosas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an advance reading copy and am reviewing it voluntarily. This mystery was set in London as Jessica and Kenta spend the summer in classes and find themselves involved in a serial killer mystery. The appearance of Jessica’s aunt who is not what she appears to be is great. Along with new friends, Jessica and Kenta take on a case that was buried in the past and finds its way to present day. By far the best of the series thus far!

[Carey Mundy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Third book in this fun series finds Jessica and Kenta in London for summer courses. But when several influencers are murdered, naturally they decide to investigate, and that’s when the excitement starts. The sleuths befriend several local teens who help them discover who is behind it and why. Can’t wait to see what trouble these two get Into in the next book, which will hopefully be out soon!

[DaShay · Rating 5 out of 5]

The publisher provided me with a copy of this book, and I am sharing my genuine thoughts.

I really enjoyed it!! It was non stop action from beginning to end. I’m already looking forward to another book by this author.

[Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

Jessica is my favorite. loved that we were in London!

[Sammy T · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF- could not deal with the racial slurs and because I’m a minority , there was a romance trope that I was not comfortable along with the obvious fetishization

[David Nunez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving how the characters changing, getting a bit older and still super young, great plot, so happy I found these books