Jigsaw: An Alex Delaware Novel

Alex Delaware #41

by Jonathan Kellerman

The iconic thriller series that inspired the upcoming streaming show on Prime Video, in development now!

Psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis, the most beloved duo in American crime fiction, return in this electric novel from the #1 New York Times bestselling “master of suspense” (Los Angeles Times).

This one looked like a slam a young woman found dead at her kitchen table, DNA on cigarette butts linking quickly to an ex-boyfriend with a criminal record. Or so homicide lieutenant Milo Sturgis thought. Then everything changed and a quick close turned into a mind-bending whodunit. That’s when Milo called in psychologist Alex Delaware, his best friend and a long-term consultant on “those cases.” The ones that are different.

Then there’s another an old woman found brutally murdered, her body stashed in a deep freeze and mutilated. And when Milo learns who she is, he’s stunned. This victim is someone he once knew. Complicating matters further, her home is an extreme hoarder’s den, virtually impassable due to years of stored trash and apparently meaningless objects. Except for the envelopes of cash stashed among the garbage. As Alex and Milo dig deeper into the seemingly unrelated crimes, they discover shocking links between the victims and realize they have a labyrinthine—and deadly—puzzle to solve.

Cast against the unforgettable L.A. ambience unique to the novels of Jonathan Kellerman, this is classic Delaware at its best.

Genres: Mystery, Mystery Thriller, Fiction, Crime, Suspense, Thriller, Thriller Suspense

244 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 3, 2026

About the author

Jonathan Kellerman was born in New York City in 1949 and grew up in Los Angeles. He helped work his way through UCLA as an editorial cartoonist, columnist, editor and freelance musician. As a senior, at the age of 22, he won a Samuel Goldwyn Writing Award for fiction.

Like his fictional protagonist, Alex Delaware, Jonathan received at Ph.D. in psychology at the age of 24, with a specialty in the treatment of children. He served internships in clinical psychology and pediatric psychology at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and was a post-doctoral HEW Fellow in Psychology and Human Development at CHLA.

IN 1975, Jonathan was asked by the hospital to conduct research into the psychological effects of extreme isolation (plastic bubble units) on children with cancer, and to coordinate care for these kids and their families. The success of that venture led to the establishment, in 1977 of the Psychosocial Program, Division of Oncology, the first comprehensive approach to the emotional aspects of pediatric cancer anywhere in the world. Jonathan was asked to be founding director and, along with his team, published extensively in the area of behavioral medicine. Decades later, the program, under the tutelage of one of Jonathan's former students, continues to break ground.

Jonathan's first published book was a medical text, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF CHILDHOOD CANCER, 1980. One year later, came a book for parents, HELPING THE FEARFUL CHILD.

In 1985, Jonathan's first novel, WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS, was published to enormous critical and commercial success and became a New York Times bestseller. BOUGH was also produced as a t.v. movie and won the Edgar Allan Poe and Anthony Boucher Awards for Best First Novel. Since then, Jonathan has published a best-selling crime novel every year, and occasionally, two a year. In addition, he has written and illustrated two books for children and a nonfiction volume on childhood violence, SAVAGE SPAWN (1999.) Though no longer active as a psychotherapist, he is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Psychology at University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine.

Jonathan is married to bestselling novelist Faye Kellerman and they have four children.

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another solid Alex Delaware novel. This one didn't really have the edge of your seat excitement, but the case was complex and interesting. The characters had distinct personalities which made it enjoyable. More of a good mystery as opposed to a thriller.

Thank you to Net Galley and Ballantine Books for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC for review. To be published February 3, 2016.

3 stars

Dr. Alex Delaware is back. Again. Along with Milo, Robin and Blanche (everyone’s favorite.)

This one revolves around two seemingly unrelated murders (yeah, right,) one of a former cop. There is some interesting side information about developmentally disabled adults and the life that some live, so I got a little bit of learning in.

This is a perfectly serviceable entry in the long-running series, not my favorite, but not my least favorite. Keller man does need to stop with the “you-know-whats” though. And zi’m not playing hide the ball here; multiple characters on several occasions refer to “you-know-what” or “you-know-where.” Use your words, people.

[OutlawPoet · Rating 3 out of 5]

I generally enjoy this writer and this series.

This one? Just okay.

I didn't really get invested in our crimes until about the 70% mark. While our main characters were doing their normal thing (and I do love them), I found the details of our victims to be so light that I didn't find myself really caring. I was interested in why one murder was done in a certain way - and the reason behind that was...interesting. I actually kind of liked that the reason behind it wasn't deep. It was surprising.

Unfortunately, this one is kind of a forgettable entry in the series. I'll still happily look forward to the next one, but I won't remember this one.

* ARC via Publisher

[Lizz Axnick · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Kellerman may not be known for horror like Stephen King, he certainly knows how to paint twisted psychological pictures of characters and their reasoning behind their crimes. The human psyche can be a dark and scary place, how Kellerman comes up with these motives I am not sure I want to know.

What I appreciated most about this book is the banter between Milo and Alex. I have missed it in some of the prior books but Milo's deadpan deliveries in this book made me laugh out loud a couple of times. I enjoy the wordplay and the literary references (since Milo has a Master's in English lit). What also helps soften the darkness is Alex's darling Frenchie, Blanche, and his partner, Robin. Blanche brings a light in the darkness and every good dark story should have a furry light in it.

I will spare the plot details, you can read the blurb yourself, but suffice it to say I was hooked from the beginning and finished the book in one sitting. A true delight for Kellerman fans. I hope he can keep Alex and Milo going.

My thanks to Ballantine Books and Netgalley for this ARC. My opinions are my own.

[Miss✧Pickypants ᓚᘏᗢ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rate 3.5 Stars Rounded Up to 4
As someone who has read every book in this series, I always enjoy the next instalment. This one was like slipping on your favourite, well worn sweater and even though its a bit threadbare its comfortable and you love it. Longtime readers will appreciate spending time with Alex, Milo and the rest of the characters that frequently appear in these books

Truth be told, this wasn't "classic Delaware at its best". Sure, there are the crimes that need solving and the police procedural parts are fine but the usual depth of the characters seemed off, like something was missing. This won't be an issue for new readers who enjoy trying to solve murder mysteries. For those of us invested in the arc of character development over the whole series, this was just okay and a bit unsatisfying.

Disclosure: Received an uncorrected ARC of this book from NetGalley and Ballantine Books/Penguin Random House LLC (Thank you!) in exchange for an honest review.

[Maryann Forbes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always look forward to a new release of an Alex Delaware novel by Jonathan Kellerman as it feels as though I am reconnecting with old friends: Alex a psychologist and police consultant, and Milo Sturgis, the LA detective and friend Alex consults with. Kellerman's newest book in the series, Jigsaw will definitely satisfy fans, and hopefully generate new readers as well. Alex joins Milo to discover the perpetrator of 3 crimes that initially don't seem related, yet are they?
Sophie Barlow, a 31 year old widow and fitness enthusiast, is discovered strangled at her kitchen table; little signs of violence and a dish with three smoked cigarettes in front of her. No ashtrays in her home; was the killer the smoker? Almost simultaneously a call comes in about another in-home strangulation, yet more gruesome, the victim's arms were severed. Milo was shocked to discover that the victim was Martha Joline Matthias, a former LA homicide detective- one of the first women achieving that distinction. Martha had been a loner and perhaps had some OCD tendencies while working, yet nothing prepared him for the state of her home or her frail appearance. As if those two cases weren't enough, a few weeks later Martha's forty six year old developmentally delayed daughter was discovered in a landfill with her head bashed in. Strangulation and death by blunt force trauma are not the typical methods to kill- were three in relatively close proximity and time just a coincidence or part of one killer's plan? Jigsaw is a well crafted, fast-paced thriller that keeps the reader guessing. Thank you to NetGalley, Ballentine Books and Jonathan Kellerman for the opportunity to read an ARC of Jigsaw; my review reflects my candid opinion. 4 stars.

[Shereadbookblog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis investigate three cases. In the first, an ex-boyfriend was set up to take the fall. In the second case, the body of an older woman, a hoarder, is discovered in a freezer, with her arms severed. Her daughter, who frequently visits and may be mentally disabled, is missing. Despite their seemingly unrelated nature, could these cases be connected?

This is the 41st in the Alex Delaware series. I have read all of them; however, each one can be read as a stand-alone as Kellerman does a good job of filling in background for the main characters. Kellerman writes true police procedurals, albeit with a unique twist as Milo is unconventional and Alex provides psychological insight. The stories follow a familiar rhythm, with Alex and Milo chasing leads, generating and discussing different theories, interviewing persons of interest, and enjoying a few good meals. Kellerman’s descriptions are particularly vivid and entertaining, and he always manages to present fresh perspectives on cases.Whenever I open a Kellerman book, I can’t seem to put it down.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @RandomHouse #BallantineBooks for the DRC.

[Lee Rush · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pleasant stroll with a familiar “family”.

It’s been an age since I picked up a Jonathan Kellerman book. When my voracious appetite for mystery first started bubbling into the magma it is today, Kellerman was a go-to. His characters in the Alex Delaware series felt like forgotten relatives from a bygone era.

And while the visit was pleasant, I found the style in the series sadly dusty around the edges. A lot of cerebral pontificating by the characters, mild action, and complex and interesting plot points made it a pleasant journey. But the style didn’t age well with me, and for that I only gave it 3 stars.

However, it’s never a bother to read a book under 300 pages, and it was nice to visit with Robin, Milo and Alex, even for a short while.

[Cheryl Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kellerman has delivered another exceptional book that I thoroughly enjoyed. The dynamic between Delaware and Sturgis is particularly engaging. This novel exemplifies the police procedural genre, which happens to be one of my favorites. It features several unexpected twists and surprises, along with intriguing insights into mental health. I have rated it five stars, and I highly recommend adding it to your reading list.

[Jane Perron · Rating 4 out of 5]

very enjoyable read. easy to follow and did not want to put it down. I love the adventures of Milo and Dr Delaware

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Jigsaw” by Jonathan Kellerman is another solid addition to the long running forensic psychologist Alex Delaware, and detective Milo Sturgis mystery series.
The story revolves around two separate female strangulations with some very strange and unsettling details that will keep you reading way past bedtime. If you have enjoyed Kellerman in the past, I highly recommend this fun, short and intelligent police procedural. For new readers this book will leave you wanting more of our favorite duo Alex and Milo!

Thank you NetGalley and Ballentine for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Laura Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first Psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis book but I'll certainly go back and read others. Not sure how I missed this writer all these years. Nice clean writing -- not a lot of filler but also no long, drawn out chase scenes either (yawn). Characters interesting and real-feeling; plot twisted enough to keep me hooked without introducing ridiculous coincidences. Not necessary to read the earlier books (or at least I never felt like I was missing something)

[Val]

Milo Sturgis has a dead woman who is found strangled in her home. Another woman is found dead in a freezer with her arms removed. How do these two cases tie together? That's where psychologist Alex Delaware and Milo find themselves as they investigate the two murders. It doesn't help that Milo has to hold back from questioning a man because of possible civil lawsuit against the department. In their customary manner, the two set out to solve the crime. Another great entry in the series. Thanks to Net Galley for the arc.

[J Kromrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley and Ballantine (one of my favorite publishers) for this eARC.

Jonathan Kellerman’s Jigsaw (#41) is a cerebral and emotionally layered entry in the Alex Delaware series, where the puzzle isn’t just the crime—it’s the psychology behind it. With a dual murder investigation that spirals into a web of misdirection, Kellerman delivers a thriller that’s as much about motive as it is about method.

The novel opens with what appears to be a straightforward case: a young woman found dead at her kitchen table, DNA evidence pointing to her ex-boyfriend. But when the suspect’s alibi holds up and inconsistencies emerge, Lieutenant Milo Sturgis calls in psychologist Alex Delaware to help untangle the deeper threads. Soon, a second murder—an elderly woman found mutilated and frozen—adds a chilling dimension. The connection between the victims isn’t obvious, and the deeper Delaware and Sturgis dig, the more the case resembles a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces and misleading edges.

Kellerman’s strength lies in his ability to blend psychological insight with procedural precision. Delaware isn’t just profiling suspects—he’s dissecting the emotional architecture of the crime scenes, the relationships, and the community. His observations are subtle, often revealing more about the victim’s lives than the killer’s intent. The interplay between Delaware and Sturgis remains one of the series’ enduring pleasures: their rapport is built on mutual respect, dry humor, and a shared commitment to justice.

The pacing in Jigsaw is deliberate, allowing space for character development and thematic depth. Kellerman doesn’t rush the investigation; instead, he layers the narrative with red herrings, ethical dilemmas, and moments of quiet reflection. The victims are not just plot devices—they’re people with histories, secrets, and vulnerabilities. This humanization adds weight to the mystery and makes the resolution more satisfying.

Thematically, the novel explores isolation, aging, and the masks people wear to survive. The contrast between the young woman’s seemingly vibrant life and the elderly victim’s hidden despair underscores Kellerman’s interest in the psychological toll of loneliness and neglect. The title Jigsaw is apt—not just for the structure of the mystery, but for the fragmented identities and relationships that populate the story.

For longtime fans, Jigsaw offers a mature, introspective installment that deepens the emotional resonance of the series.

For newcomers, it’s a compelling standalone that showcases Kellerman’s skill at crafting intelligent, character-driven crime fiction. It’s not a breakneck thriller—it’s a slow burn with a sharp edge.

If you’re drawn to mysteries that prioritize psychological depth over sensational twists, Jigsaw is a rewarding read.

[PamG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jigsaw by Jonathan Kellerman is the forty-first book in the series featuring Psychologist Alex Delaware. As usual Lost Angeles Police Lieutenant Milo Sturgis has one of those unusual cases that could use Alex’s insight. It had originally looked like an easy case when a woman was found dead at her kitchen table and DNA was linked to an ex-boyfriend. Then, the case is turned upside down. Meanwhile an old woman is found brutally murdered and mutilated. It turns out the victim is someone Milo once knew. To complicate matters, her home is an extreme hoarder’s den with years of stored trash and objects.

Milo and Alex have been friends for years and while they often approach cases from different standpoints, their investigative and cognitive techniques gel as well as their dispositions, keeping the cases fresh and entertaining. At this stage of the series, the main characters are well known to this reader and have depth. Some secondary characters from previous books in the series show up to keep things interesting and provide additional awareness of how Milo and his team work together. It was great to continue to see Detective Alicia Bogomil have a larger role in this novel and Alex’s partner Robin showed up several times as well.

The novel captured my interest with its engaging writing style that rapidly drew me into the investigation into the murders. There are several twists and turns, but I wanted a little more suspense. (There is one action scene towards the end of the book.) However, the plot kept my attention and I was engaged throughout the novel. As always, Kellerman’s writing is polished and appealing.

This book will thrill fans of police procedurals who relish a story with realistic and diverse characters. Additionally, several themes are explored including mental health, murder, fraud, secrets, revenge, friendship, and much more.

Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Milo and Alex’s world and their latest cases. It was an engaging read. While this story isn’t high on suspense, it is a well-conceived and executed mystery. Readers that like the series, mysteries, and police procedurals should enjoy this latest novel. I don’t recommend jumping into this series at number 41, though. Start earlier in the series to have the best reading experience. I have read over 20 books in the series and plan to read them all. They’re never disappointing.

Ballantine – Ballantine Books and Jonathan Kellerman provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for February 03, 2026.
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My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.

[Linda · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Doing nothing is the most tiresome job in the world because you cannot quit and rest." (Anonymous)

That's the kind of vibe I got from Jigsaw, the latest Jonathan Kellerman novel. Usually Kellerman's writing is sparkin' and lined with fast action and intriguing scenarios. This one was at a simmer and didn't even get near a boiling point. Hey, you say. Wasn't there a mutilated body found in a freezer? Yeah, but we danced around that creepy find chapter after chapter.

Alex Delaware is a renowned psychiatrist who is frequently called upon as a psych consultant by his best friend, Milo Sturgis, a homicide detective in L.A.. We've grown to love Alex, his wife Robin, and their French Bulldog, Blanche. Prior cases with this dynamic duo have been amazing.

The body of a young woman has been found and the boyfriend becomes the target suspect. There's even cigarette butts with his DNA found near the body. But did he do it? Then comes the freezer case with the "unattached" woman who spent her life as mega hoarder. Sifting for clues will be a monumental experience. And then Kellerman slips in the body of a young woman found in a dump. All these cases will be weaved together like a demented spider's web.

Jonathan Kellerman is a brilliant writer. No further discussion there. But Jigsaw just seemed so low key in comparison to his past works. We seem to tread water for the bulk of the novel before an out-of-nowhere thread appears. It seemed to be a weak plant to find closure for this storyline. As readers, we felt duped. No titillating clues which normally seep in throughout. Too many deadends.

Jigsaw is still a worthy read. Kellerman sees to that with its set-up and its deep psychological tones. Authors can't always hit it outta the park every time. Don't glaze over at this one being #41. Some of us weren't even alive when Kellerman began writing. Pick up the latest ones like I did. Kellerman still reigns as one of the best.

I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Ballantine Books and to the talented Jonathan Kellerman for the opportunity.

[Monnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow – can it be that this is the 41st book in this wonderful series? I’ve been there almost from the beginning, though I’ve reviewed only 16 since starting my book blog. And you know what? I enjoyed every single one and looked forward to the next – and this one’s no exception.

The case started out like a slam-dunk; a young woman was found strangled in her own home, and strong evidence pointed to her ex-boyfriend, who was to be rounded up and charged. Until, that is, his hotshot, in-your-face attorney comes to his rescue, insisting he has an iron-clad alibi. So for homicide lieutenant Milo Sturgis, it was back to the drawing board (or should I say the murder board), and he calls in his long-time trusted friend, psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware, who’s a long-standing police consultant.

Just as they’re getting their heads together trying to poke holes in the suspect’s alibi, another murder happens; this one, an elderly woman whose body turned up in the freezer in her garage – appendages disengaged and rearranged. The house itself lends no clues; turns out she’s a big-time hoarder; just moving from room to room poses the threat of an avalanche. Complicating things is that she’s someone Milo used to know, and stuffed in between all that mess are envelopes full of cash – clearly more than a person like her would be likely to earn legitimately.

Then a third dead body turns up, and little by little, clues pile up – eventually suggesting that the cases may be not only related, but connected to a really nasty bad guy. But how? Learning that adds an additional dimension to the investigation, keeping both Milo and Alex busy (which, despite their protestations, means doing what they both love in sunny California and gives Alex’s long-time main squeeze, Robin, time to work on her professional guitar restoration projects. Of course, it all works out in the end – with a bit of a twist that wasn’t obvious along the way. Another winner in my book, for which I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to get up close and personal by way of a pre-release copy. Now bring on the next one!

[Lori L (She Treads Softly) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jigsaw by Jonathan Kellerman is a very highly recommended investigative mystery. This is a satisfying 41st addition to the Alex Delaware series and those following the long-running series will welcome returning to check in with Alex, Milo, Robin and Blanche.

Psychologist Alex Delaware is contacted by Detective Milo Sturgis to assist with two cases. In the first case, Sophie Barlow, a young woman, is found dead at her kitchen table. DNA on cigarette butts indicate her ex-boyfriend, but he has an airtight alibi, so the investigation is stymied. The second case is of an old woman, Martha Joline Matthias, who was murdered and her mutilated body was found in a deep freeze. She was a former police detective and Milo knew her. Martha was also a hoarder and her home is packed with things and envelopes of cash. During the investigation they find a tenuous connection between the victims, but the perpetrator is a mystery.

Reading an Alex Delaware novel is always a welcomed, comfortable experience. You appreciate the fact that the writing will be excellent, the characters are well-known, and the mystery/investigation will be compelling and hold your complete attention. As fans of the series know, Milo always calls psychologist Alex Delaware, his best friend and a long-term consultant on “those cases.” The ones that are different, and these cases fit that expectation.

If you are new to the series, the character development may seem spare, but as installment 41 in the series, those who have been following the series for years deeply know these characters and their background. Reading a new installment of the series is returning to characters that are very well known while they must solve complex, unpredictable cases.

The pace is fast, the page count low, the case intelligent, and the characters known so Jigsaw was a pleasant diversion. Thanks to Ballantine Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via . My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0....

[LindaPf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another satisfying installment in the Dr. Alex Delaware/Milo Sturgis series. If you’ve been a long time fan, this is another story to puzzle about and then let Alex and Milo figure it out.

Two cases: a strangulation that seemed like a slam dunk until the suspect presented an ironclad alibi; and the discovery of a frozen body in a hoarder’s garage — wherein the victim turns out to be a retired female homicide detective.

Both seem totally unrelated and Milo is initially frustrated and calls in the doc. The clues are all over the place until, reminding us why Dr. Delaware is brilliant, and a single observation starts to tie the two cases together. “Jigsaw” can work as a standalone or intro to the entire series — for the most part they can be read out of order (dependent on which decade they were written).

Kellerman (and now his son, Jesse) are automatic reads for me. Has it really been 41 years? The stories are never stale (I do believe they started in pre-cellphone days) and Kellerman has adapted modern day technology into his crime-solving. Alex and Milo are reliable and competent and it’s through hard police work that the crimes they investigate get solved. How they bounce theories off one another is the brilliant core of these thrillers.
But Alex’s Cadillac Seville is now ancient — the last model year was 2004… I noticed it wasn’t used as much this time. Really, Doc, you deserve something new and snazzy. 4.5 stars!

Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): ALWAYS: Milo has startlingly bright green eyes, and Bettina Bel Geddes is also green-eyed.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Kellerman knows his Southern California landscape well.

Thank you to Ballantine/Random House and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!

[Donna Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can you think of a mystery series that is as long running and reliably entertaining as the Alex Delaware series, by Jonathan Kellerman? This is his 41st, and it’s going strong. My thanks go to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the review copy. This book will be available to the public February 3, 2026.

After so many installments, the regular characters in this series feel like old friends. When homicide detective Milo Sturgis careens into the kitchen of his longtime bestie, Dr. Alex Delaware and raids the fridge like a huge, gay version of Dagwood Bumstead, I can’t help smiling. Milo, Alex, it’s good seeing you again! Most episodes begin this way. Unlike many well-established series, however, we don’t take a great deal of time for character development, because there are three murders here and they cannot wait!

The first appears to be obvious; a young woman is found murdered in her home, and the cigarette butts nearby bear the DNA of her boyfriend. But it’s not as it seems. Next, an elderly woman—a former cop—is missing, and a welfare check finds her dead, dismembered, in her freezer. Yikes! The chief suspect, her developmentally disabled daughter, is later also found dead. And the woman in the freezer is a colleague, known to Milo.

The interesting part about this one is that the victim, the former cop, is a hoarder. Who knew? Nothing about her suggested that her home would be jammed full of trash, but here we are. Piles of newspaper, food wrappers, mouse droppings, paper sacks full of money, magazines…more bags full of money…

Huh?

Like all of the books in this series, this is a quick read. Partly that’s because it’s fast paced and interesting, and partly it’s because it’s chock full of snappy dialogue. Whereas I miss the humor that is frequently injected into these stories, I appreciate the trend away from the twisted sexual situations that appeared for a few years.

All told, this is an excellent entry into a series that has never failed to engage me, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to you.

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well... here we are at book 41 and, if you have yet to start the series, there's an awful lot to play catchup with. Me, I've been with this author since there was only 13 to catch up and I have to say it wasn't a chore at all...!
So we start with Det. Milo Sturgis in a bit of a pickle as the evidence he followed at a pretty slam dunk murder scene led him down the wrong path and there are shenanigans and repercussions aplenty... He is so flummoxed that he turns to his great friend psychologist Alex Delaware to help dig him out of the hole.
Meanwhile the two of them are called to a very different scene. That of an old woman who has been brutally murdered, cut up, and hidden in a chest freezer. The old woman turns out to be very well known to Milo but the search of her house is tricky as she has become somewhat of a hoarder since retiring. What they do find though, is a bunch of cash... And then when they try to find next of kin they realise that her daughter is missing and, although an adult in age, she is definitely classed as vulnerable.
Whilst admittedly not the strongest book in the series, it nevertheless contained everything I need from a series book. Familiar characters all acting as they should - Milo and Alex obviously but also Robin, Blanche and all Milo's colleagues all play their parts well. And the episode characters were all as well drawn as they needed to be - obviously obfuscation held certain things back initially.
The cases themselves were interesting and compelling and held my attention nicely all the way through, spitting me out at the end both satisfied and sad to be having to say goodbye to the characters I had just spent a few hours catching up with.
All in all, although as already mentioned, not the strongest story but still a good solid read. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

[Savonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis have been a formidable crime-solving team for years. In this installment of the Alex Delaware series, Alex is still driving his Seville (on its third engine), and Milo is still wearing his trademark desert boots.

This time they are stymied by a pair of LA strangulations that appear to have no relation to each other. The first, Sophie Barlow, a young 30-something woman, the second elderly Martha Matthias, a retired police detective.

Through Milo’s methodical police work and Alex’s psychological insights, they comb through numerous clues and interviews to land on what they believe to be the key to the whole puzzle—Michael Heck, Sophie’s ex-boyfriend and Martha’s former suspect. But to their chagrin, Alex and Milo realize that what seems obvious is anything but. True to form, they work with their crackerjack police team to cut through the detritus to discover the pieces of evidence they need to solve a case that has gone in a direction nobody saw coming.

The Delaware books always provide a complex mystery solved by two very different but devoted buddies with complementary skills. I’ve never read any of the books in the series I didn’t enjoy, and this is no exception. The red herrings, the misdirection, indeed the jigsaw, will keep the most laconic reader engaged. It’s another winner for Jonathan Kellerman, Alex Delaware, and Milo Sturgis.

Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for a complimentary digital review copy.

[Charlene Roberson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced digital copy of this book.

LA can be a dangerous place, full of danger and crazy people. And NO ONE knows this better than psychologist Alex Delaware and LAPD Homicide detective Milo Sturgis. They are friends, of a sort, but mostly work together when Milo gets one of "those" cases. The cases where he needs the insight from a psychologist to figure out not only whodunit, but, maybe WHY.

This story is about two cases, two different women killed in VERY different parts of the city, and seemingly with no connection. But, is there a connection? Digging deep, one is found, and it turns out to be more surprising than any other case I have read.

The first victim, strangled in her home, has some cigar butts on the table with the DNA of her killer, right? Uh, no. He is NOT the killer, and in fact hasn't seen the woman, a prior romantic partner, for some time, so how did those butts get in her otherwise spotless house? Is someone trying to frame him with this murder? But WHO? And WHY?

The second victim is a retired woman who, when a neighbor requests a wellness check, is found dead and all wrapped up in her freezer. Oh, yeah, her arms have been cut off and laid across the body. THIS sounds like it is REALLY up Alex's alley, but WHY cut off her arms? And who is the weird (as described by neighbors) woman who sometimes visits, but hasn't been seen in a while?

The two cases take a lot of time and effort and both the men are exhausted by the time they are settled, but they DO both get solved, and in a completely shocking way!!

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read a ton of the early books in this series when I was younger, but have only read a handful of the last twenty or so, and I think it's probably just not the series for me anymore. Alex Delaware is just too blandly perfect. I need a detective with more angst, or weird obsessions, or anger issues, or some kind of addiction. Anyway, there are plenty of those out there for those us who want crimes to be solved by weirdos, so I just need to stop requesting ARCs for this series. If you want a psychologically interesting protagonist, look elsewhere, but if you want Mr. Perfect you will love Alex Delaware.

As to the story, it was fine. Not particularly tense or suspenseful, but a nicely laid out procedural investigation where Alex and Milo ran down leads and clues, talked to witnesses and suspects, and made connections between cases that seemed utterly different at first. I enjoyed it enough to keep reading and wanted to know who the killer was, but this will not stick with me.

For anyone new to this series I wouldn't recommend starting here--go back to the early stuff! If you already love Kellerman's books and like Alex Delaware as he is, you will probably like this installment, and that is the audience I would recommend this book to. If, like me, you come to this book a little on the fence about this series, skip it!

Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the ARC

[Margie Bunting · Rating 4 out of 5]

These days, I know I can count on Jonathan Kellerman for an intriguing mystery with his beloved protagonists. In Jigsaw, book #41 in the Alex Delaware series, slovenly but razor-sharp Detective Milo Sturgis again calls in brilliant psychologist Alex to consult on a group of murders that are particularly mystifying. In the first murder, a suspect has been identified with DNA evidence, but is it too easy to conclude that he is the actual killer? A second murder is particularly grisly, and the victim's cluttered home doesn't make sense, based on her former life in law enforcement.

Milo and Alex, as always, work together as a strong team, sifting through clues and relentlessly seeking clarity. But even though there seem to be fewer suspects in this case than usual, resolution of their investigation is just as difficult--maybe even more so.

I have always enjoyed the Alex Delaware mysteries, and this one is no exception. My only reservation is that the ending seems abrupt, once the killer is identified. I'm wondering why this book is significantly shorter (256 pages)than the rest of the books in the series. Nevertheless, I am still all-in with Kellerman's long-running series and looking forward to the next book.

My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of this book.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars
LAPD Detective Milo Sturgis often brings his best friend Dr. Alex Delaware in on homicide cases that benefit from Alex's knowledge of human behavior. I love the unique combination of detective and psychologist in this series. They work well together and complement each other's strong points to solve cases. I've been reading this series for many years and it's great to catch up with the main characters. However, each book also stands on its own and new readers don't need to be intimated by the fact that it's a long-running series.

Kellerman's books are filled with interesting characters and plots and vivid descriptions. In Jigsaw, Milo and Alex are working on two cases - a young woman found dead at her kitchen table and a former female police officer who is brutally killed. The investigation takes an unexpected turn as this complicated case progresses. A seemingly unrelated case is brought into the mix and while it's important to the overall story, some of the details slowed the pace of the book for me. I like the way things come together and the way the motives were explained at the end. The quality of this series remains excellent even though this is the 41st book in the series, so I'm already looking forward to book 42!

I received an advance copy of this ebook from Ballantine Books and NetGalley, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.

[Amber Boos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read Jonathan Kellerman since I was in High School way back in the 80's! He was one of the first more "adult" authors I became hooked on. Well, here it is 2025 and I am still reading him. That alone says a lot. In Jigsaw, Psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis are back on a case. In this one, we have a young woman found dead at her kitchen table. DNA evidence links the murder to an ex-boyfriend. Cut and dried, right? Well, if you are a regular reader, then you know this is never the case. More murders are discovered, and Detective Milo is on the case and of course he brings in Alex Delaware for the psychological insight. I love the friendship between these two guys. It has been so much fun watching them evolve through the years. Their banter back and forth as they throw around theories and plans is hilarious. The side characters are just as well written. Once again, another stellar entry into the series! And for the non-regulars, this can definitely be read as a standalone, but afterwards, I strongly urge you to go back to When the Bough Breaks and catch up on what is one of the best series out there!

Thank you to #NetGalley, Jonathan Kellerman and Ballantine | Ballantine Books for this ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Aaron Todd Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC provided by Netgalley for my honest review.

Alex Delaware and Milo Sturgis return! This is my introduction to this dynamic duo.

The setup has all the makings of, what I infer, a classic Delaware case: two murders that appear unrelated, a quick suspect who’s too easy to pin, and then the inevitable twist that reroutes everything. The premise is engaging! An old case, a personal connection, a hoarder’s house filled with secrets, but the execution didn’t quite carry the weight it could have.

For me, the writing style felt a bit uneven, with moments of sharpness buried under slow pacing. Following the dialogue felt unnatural for me, as well. The character arcs also never really found momentum; they stayed mostly unchanged throughout, never deepening or evolving in ways that made me feel truly invested. I wanted more interiority, more tension, more emotional stakes than what we got. This being the 42nd installment of the series makes sense that the characters would be well established, but still would hope for a but more development.

One thing I could do without is the repeated reliance on indirect phrases and verbal tics. After a while it started to feel distracting.

Overall, not bad but not great. Somewhere in the middle, which ultimately reflects my 3 star rating.

[Jeff · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just a quick word of thanks to Ballantine Books/Penguin Random House Publishing as well as netgalley.com for an advanced reading copy in exchange for my honest opinion of this novel.

If you have seen my previous posts, you'll know that I have enjoyed the Jonathan Kellerman novels - specifically the Alex Delaware books. This is book #41 in the series, and I have read all of them. I enjoy the layout of the Delaware novels - you have Alex Delaware a PhD in psychology who helps his longtime friend, Milo Sturgis, on criminal cases that are not "cut-and-dry." The two work together well, and this series has grown into an enjoyable, relaxing read for me. Jigsaw begins with the finding of a victim who has her arms severed by what looks to be some type of saw - perhaps a jigsaw - and placed into a freezer. Milo and his team of detectives request for Dr. Alex Delaware to help determine the motive - the why - of this crime. Readers find out there is a tie-in with two other murders, and ultimately, the "why" gets figured out by the Delaware/Sturgis team.

Again, this is a suspenseful and enjoyable read - another good Alex Delaware novel from Jonathan Kellerman. It won't knock your socks off, but it will keep you entertained. 3 stars.

[Kathleen Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

I gotta admit up front that I'm a fan of Kellerman and have read every book in this series (which is more of a wow to me than to anyone else since I realized that means I've read 41 Alex Delaware/Milo Sturgis books.) This latest sees Lt. Milo Sturgis working two tricky cases involving women who have been murdered and posed in unusual ways. Psychologist Alex Delaware, as fans know, has thoughts on each one and he's the one who sees that there must be some sort of connection between a retired LAPD officer who was a hoarder and a young woman due to the method of death. And then there's the daughter of the retired LAPD officer. But what is it? Milo and Alex walk through a tricky one with an obnoxious attorney and the former boyfriend of the younger woman to get to the truth. But every time you think they've got it, there's s twist. I enjoy this series not just for the mysteries, which often start with something gruesome (and this one is no exception) but for the characters. Milo and Alex have a terrific working relationship and the supporting cast shine as well. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Fans will be pleased but know that this could be just as enjoyable as a standalone that will then send you to the backlist. Great read.