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Jesse Stone #23
Robert B. Parker's Big Shot
Not yet published
Expected 10 Feb 26Police Chief Jesse Stone finds himself in the crosshairs of a rich hedge fund manager dead set on making Paradise Jesse’s personal hell, in this latest installment of Robert B. Parker’s beloved series.
Fresh off an acquittal in a multibillion-dollar fraud case, Ramsey Devlin doesn’t think the law applies to him. This becomes apparent when Jesse finds him passed out, drunk, and on the side of the road in a McLaren worth more than most people’s homes. After Devlin takes a swing at him and Jesse swiftly dumps him in the drunk tank, Jesse realizes he’s made an enemy.
Devlin makes it his life’s mission to use his money and influence to provoke Jesse. And thanks to a few big campaign donations, he’s got Jesse’s nemesis, Gary Armistead, the mayor of Paradise, on his side. Devlin’s even got Molly Crane, Jesse’s deputy chief, wanting to act on her violent urges.
Jesse has every reason to want Devlin out of his town. But when he vanishes, and bloodstains are found on the carpet of his monstrous seaside mansion, Jesse finds himself the main suspect in Devlin’s disappearance. Suspended from his position as chief, Jesse must solve the case and prove his own innocence—or he might be the one to wind up behind bars.
Fresh off an acquittal in a multibillion-dollar fraud case, Ramsey Devlin doesn’t think the law applies to him. This becomes apparent when Jesse finds him passed out, drunk, and on the side of the road in a McLaren worth more than most people’s homes. After Devlin takes a swing at him and Jesse swiftly dumps him in the drunk tank, Jesse realizes he’s made an enemy.
Devlin makes it his life’s mission to use his money and influence to provoke Jesse. And thanks to a few big campaign donations, he’s got Jesse’s nemesis, Gary Armistead, the mayor of Paradise, on his side. Devlin’s even got Molly Crane, Jesse’s deputy chief, wanting to act on her violent urges.
Jesse has every reason to want Devlin out of his town. But when he vanishes, and bloodstains are found on the carpet of his monstrous seaside mansion, Jesse finds himself the main suspect in Devlin’s disappearance. Suspended from his position as chief, Jesse must solve the case and prove his own innocence—or he might be the one to wind up behind bars.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 10, 2026
80 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Farnsworth
22 books1,231 followersChristopher Farnsworth is the author of FLASHMOB (one of Publishers Weekly's Best Books of 2017), KILLFILE, THE ETERNAL WORLD, and the PRESIDENT'S VAMPIRE series. A screenwriter and journalist, he lives in Los Angeles.
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Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Christopher Farnsworth continues the Jesse Stone crime series with the twenty-third book:
Robert B. Parker’s Big Shot.
Full of interpersonal conflict, action, and some suspense, the novel kept me engaged throughout. Paradise, Massachusetts Police Chief Jesse Stone finds one of its newest residents, Ramsey Devlin, passed out and drunk on the side of the road. Ramsey was recently acquitted in a multibillion-dollar fraud case and doesn’t think the law applies to him. When he tries to punch Jesse, Jesse arrests him and realizes he’s made an enemy.
Ramsey decides to use his money and influence to provoke Jesse, including campaign donations to Paradise’s mayor, Gary Armistead. When Ramsey disappears and blood is found on the carpet of his huge mansion, Jesse becomes the main suspect and is suspended. Can Jesse find out what happened before he ends up behind bars?
Jesse has a drive to make things right and do the right thing. He’s considered somewhat old-school, has a history of alcoholism and bad relationships, but is now sober and in a stable relationship with emergency room doctor, Rachel Lowenthal. He tends to have anger management issues which he is working on with his therapist. This deeper dive into Jesse’s flaws and strengths added depth to his character and made him more dynamic. Ramsey is arrogant and doesn’t care about anyone but himself. He believes money and influence can solve most problems. It was also good to catch up with several familiar characters including Deputy Chief Molly Crane and Detective Suit.
Insightful and moving, this novel looks at corruption, power, influence, and greed, along with retaliation for perceived wrongs. It also shows how some politicians’ hypocrisy can appear righteous to some, when it is just putting on a false front to deceive others. Secrets, power, influence, greed, bullying, relationships, political ambitions, murder, and more are explored in this medium-paced narrative.
The first chapter immediately pulls readers into the story. This riveting mystery captured the characters and made them come to life within the boundaries of a deeply involved plot. There are several twists and turns as the story gains momentum and continues to an astonishing conclusion.
Overall, this engrossing and entertaining novel is an excellent addition to the series. Featuring a strong, flawed, and capable protagonist, excellent pacing, and a solid plot, the story kept me turning the pages rapidly. This author does a great job of continuing Robert B. Parker’s tone for Jesse’s character while also keeping it current and fresh. Although this is the twenty-third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone novel. However, readers will gain a better appreciation for Jesse and the recurring secondary characters by reading earlier books in the series. I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
Putnam – G.P. Putnam’s Sons and Christopher Farnsworth provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 10, 2026.
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My 4.3 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Ramsey decides to use his money and influence to provoke Jesse, including campaign donations to Paradise’s mayor, Gary Armistead. When Ramsey disappears and blood is found on the carpet of his huge mansion, Jesse becomes the main suspect and is suspended. Can Jesse find out what happened before he ends up behind bars?
Jesse has a drive to make things right and do the right thing. He’s considered somewhat old-school, has a history of alcoholism and bad relationships, but is now sober and in a stable relationship with emergency room doctor, Rachel Lowenthal. He tends to have anger management issues which he is working on with his therapist. This deeper dive into Jesse’s flaws and strengths added depth to his character and made him more dynamic. Ramsey is arrogant and doesn’t care about anyone but himself. He believes money and influence can solve most problems. It was also good to catch up with several familiar characters including Deputy Chief Molly Crane and Detective Suit.
Insightful and moving, this novel looks at corruption, power, influence, and greed, along with retaliation for perceived wrongs. It also shows how some politicians’ hypocrisy can appear righteous to some, when it is just putting on a false front to deceive others. Secrets, power, influence, greed, bullying, relationships, political ambitions, murder, and more are explored in this medium-paced narrative.
The first chapter immediately pulls readers into the story. This riveting mystery captured the characters and made them come to life within the boundaries of a deeply involved plot. There are several twists and turns as the story gains momentum and continues to an astonishing conclusion.
Overall, this engrossing and entertaining novel is an excellent addition to the series. Featuring a strong, flawed, and capable protagonist, excellent pacing, and a solid plot, the story kept me turning the pages rapidly. This author does a great job of continuing Robert B. Parker’s tone for Jesse’s character while also keeping it current and fresh. Although this is the twenty-third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone novel. However, readers will gain a better appreciation for Jesse and the recurring secondary characters by reading earlier books in the series. I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
Putnam – G.P. Putnam’s Sons and Christopher Farnsworth provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 10, 2026.
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My 4.3 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
November 9, 2025
Thanks to the Putnam and Netgalley for this eARC.
Christopher Farnsworth’s Robert B. Parker’s Big Shot is a taut, character-driven thriller that revitalizes the Jesse Stone series with a sharp blend of corporate intrigue, personal reckoning, and small-town grit. It’s a continuation that respects Parker’s legacy while confidently carving its own path.
Paradise, Massachusetts may look serene, but beneath its surface simmers a new kind of threat—one not born of street crime, but of unchecked power. Jesse Stone, the town’s stoic police chief, finds himself in the crosshairs of Ramsey Devlin, a hedge fund mogul with a bruised ego and a vendetta. After a humiliating arrest, Devlin sets out to dismantle Jesse’s authority, using wealth, influence, and political leverage to turn Paradise into his personal playground.
Farnsworth’s take on Jesse Stone is emotionally resonant and psychologically nuanced. Jesse is still the man readers know—quiet, principled, and haunted by past regrets—but here, he’s also grappling with the erosion of institutional trust and the limits of his own power. The novel doesn’t rely on shootouts or high-octane chases; instead, it builds tension through legal maneuvering, moral ambiguity, and the slow tightening of Devlin’s grip on the town.
The supporting cast—Molly Crane, Suitcase Simpson, and others—remain vital, offering loyalty and levity as Jesse navigates increasingly murky waters. Farnsworth deepens these relationships without overplaying sentimentality, allowing moments of quiet connection to shine amid the procedural grind.
Thematically, Big Shot explores the fragility of justice in a world where money can bend the rules. Farnsworth doesn’t preach, but he does probe: What happens when the law is technically followed but ethically violated? Jesse’s struggle becomes a mirror for broader societal tensions, where integrity is tested not by violence, but by influence.
Farnsworth’s prose is lean and effective, channeling Parker’s clipped style while adding his own polish. Dialogue is crisp, the pacing tight, and the stakes feel personal without losing their broader implications. The novel’s strength lies in its restraint—it doesn’t need fireworks to make its point, just a steady unraveling of control.
For longtime fans, Big Shot is a satisfying evolution—familiar yet freshly relevant.
For newcomers, it’s an accessible entry point that showcases the series’ emotional depth and moral complexity. Jesse Stone may be outgunned, but he’s never outmatched.
Christopher Farnsworth’s Robert B. Parker’s Big Shot is a taut, character-driven thriller that revitalizes the Jesse Stone series with a sharp blend of corporate intrigue, personal reckoning, and small-town grit. It’s a continuation that respects Parker’s legacy while confidently carving its own path.
Paradise, Massachusetts may look serene, but beneath its surface simmers a new kind of threat—one not born of street crime, but of unchecked power. Jesse Stone, the town’s stoic police chief, finds himself in the crosshairs of Ramsey Devlin, a hedge fund mogul with a bruised ego and a vendetta. After a humiliating arrest, Devlin sets out to dismantle Jesse’s authority, using wealth, influence, and political leverage to turn Paradise into his personal playground.
Farnsworth’s take on Jesse Stone is emotionally resonant and psychologically nuanced. Jesse is still the man readers know—quiet, principled, and haunted by past regrets—but here, he’s also grappling with the erosion of institutional trust and the limits of his own power. The novel doesn’t rely on shootouts or high-octane chases; instead, it builds tension through legal maneuvering, moral ambiguity, and the slow tightening of Devlin’s grip on the town.
The supporting cast—Molly Crane, Suitcase Simpson, and others—remain vital, offering loyalty and levity as Jesse navigates increasingly murky waters. Farnsworth deepens these relationships without overplaying sentimentality, allowing moments of quiet connection to shine amid the procedural grind.
Thematically, Big Shot explores the fragility of justice in a world where money can bend the rules. Farnsworth doesn’t preach, but he does probe: What happens when the law is technically followed but ethically violated? Jesse’s struggle becomes a mirror for broader societal tensions, where integrity is tested not by violence, but by influence.
Farnsworth’s prose is lean and effective, channeling Parker’s clipped style while adding his own polish. Dialogue is crisp, the pacing tight, and the stakes feel personal without losing their broader implications. The novel’s strength lies in its restraint—it doesn’t need fireworks to make its point, just a steady unraveling of control.
For longtime fans, Big Shot is a satisfying evolution—familiar yet freshly relevant.
For newcomers, it’s an accessible entry point that showcases the series’ emotional depth and moral complexity. Jesse Stone may be outgunned, but he’s never outmatched.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the author’s second shot at the series, and from the chair I sat in while reading, he’s doing a pretty darn good job. It’s always fun to see small-town Paradise, Massachusetts, police chief Jesse Stone give a few bad guys (and slimy local politicians) their comeuppance, and he does it in spades in this one.
Ever since he became the police chief in the wealth-invested community of Paradise, former alcoholic Jesse Stone has bumped heads with the best of ‘em; not a few community leaders, including the town mayor, have done their best to get him fired – or make him so mad at them that he’ll quit on his own. That’s an ongoing theme throughout much of the series, but this time out, Jesse takes on a new opponent: ultra-wealthy Ramsey Devlin, who’s built a honker of a home (most will say a total eyesore) in Paradise who recently was acquitted of fraud under federal law – think Bernie Madoff times at least two. Construction of his new home clearly violates community standards, if not most of the local zoning laws, but he appears to have greased the palms of the “right” people to git ‘er done – most notably, perhaps, the mayor of Paradise, who’s never exactly been a Jesse fan.
Right off the bat, Jesse clashes with Ramsey, both by way of a physical altercation and letting him know in no uncertain terms his money doesn’t put him above the law. Needless to say, getting knocked on his kiester doesn’t (ahem) sit well with Ramsey, who makes it his mission to get even. Still another wedge comes between the two when Ramsey’s like-father-like-son kid bullies the son of Jesse’s current main squeeze and ER doctor, Rachel Lowenthal.
Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Jesse, a herd of drug dealers and pushers are making their way from Florida to Paradise. The reason isn’t clear – until it is. Before they hit the town limits, though, rich guy Ramsey disappears, leaving a boatload of blood on his home office floor that’s (oops!) discovered by Jesse. Suddenly, Jesse finds himself at the center of a suspected murder once again – but this time as the prime suspect.
How will it all work out? Is this the end of Jesse’s long career in law enforcement? All I can reveal is that the investigation heats up pretty fast, and readers have the pleasure of being in on the action as it unfolds. It’s another engaging and entertaining adventure, and I’m delighted to be one of those readers by way of a pre-release copy in exchange for an honest review. Good job!
Ever since he became the police chief in the wealth-invested community of Paradise, former alcoholic Jesse Stone has bumped heads with the best of ‘em; not a few community leaders, including the town mayor, have done their best to get him fired – or make him so mad at them that he’ll quit on his own. That’s an ongoing theme throughout much of the series, but this time out, Jesse takes on a new opponent: ultra-wealthy Ramsey Devlin, who’s built a honker of a home (most will say a total eyesore) in Paradise who recently was acquitted of fraud under federal law – think Bernie Madoff times at least two. Construction of his new home clearly violates community standards, if not most of the local zoning laws, but he appears to have greased the palms of the “right” people to git ‘er done – most notably, perhaps, the mayor of Paradise, who’s never exactly been a Jesse fan.
Right off the bat, Jesse clashes with Ramsey, both by way of a physical altercation and letting him know in no uncertain terms his money doesn’t put him above the law. Needless to say, getting knocked on his kiester doesn’t (ahem) sit well with Ramsey, who makes it his mission to get even. Still another wedge comes between the two when Ramsey’s like-father-like-son kid bullies the son of Jesse’s current main squeeze and ER doctor, Rachel Lowenthal.
Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Jesse, a herd of drug dealers and pushers are making their way from Florida to Paradise. The reason isn’t clear – until it is. Before they hit the town limits, though, rich guy Ramsey disappears, leaving a boatload of blood on his home office floor that’s (oops!) discovered by Jesse. Suddenly, Jesse finds himself at the center of a suspected murder once again – but this time as the prime suspect.
How will it all work out? Is this the end of Jesse’s long career in law enforcement? All I can reveal is that the investigation heats up pretty fast, and readers have the pleasure of being in on the action as it unfolds. It’s another engaging and entertaining adventure, and I’m delighted to be one of those readers by way of a pre-release copy in exchange for an honest review. Good job!
November 22, 2025
Police Chief Jesse Stone has just weathered another summer of tourists overrunning the small coastal town of Paradise, Massachusetts, north of Boston overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Jesse is out on night patrol as his small police force is short staffed so all officers, including Jesse. rotate shifts. Jesse comes across an expensive car—not unusual in the upscale town—illegally parked on the roadside and occupied by a belligerent drunk driver who, rather than follow Jesse’s instructions, gives him mouth and tries to punch him. Jesse is left with no option but to arrest him. So begins the exciting story of Big Shot as the man arrested, Ramsey Devlin, has just built a 23 million dollar McMansion overlooking the ocean and due to his humiliating arrest now considers Jesse his enemy.
The well constructed plot has Jesse and Devlin, a corrupt former hedge fund CEO, encountering each other in a variety of public settings until it appears to onlookers that Jesse has an immense dislike for the rude loudmouth. Jesse, thanks to regular meetings with his therapist, keeps his anger in check as Devlin baits him time and again. But with considerable wealth comes power and influence and Devlin uses both to go after Jesse leaving Jesse caught up in legal jeopardy as a result. Devlin knows only to win at any cost but taking on Jesse is not a smart decision.
I have read all of the Jesse Stone novels and found Christopher Farnsworth’s insightful depiction of Jesse, Molly, Suit, Cole, and other Paradise characters spot on. His prose captures Parker’s classic writing style while keeping it fresh.. Dialogue is sharp and the action filled story moves forward at a rapid pace with Jesse searching for answers as he is determined to unravel the bind he has found himself in,
There is plenty of action including financial fraud, bullying by a seven year old, the usual town politics,, murders, and a cartel seeking vengeance. Farnsworth blends together all these different subplots with a deft touch. Big Shot is a highly entertaining book and is strongly recommended.
I thank G.P. Putnam’s Sons and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this outstanding novel.
The well constructed plot has Jesse and Devlin, a corrupt former hedge fund CEO, encountering each other in a variety of public settings until it appears to onlookers that Jesse has an immense dislike for the rude loudmouth. Jesse, thanks to regular meetings with his therapist, keeps his anger in check as Devlin baits him time and again. But with considerable wealth comes power and influence and Devlin uses both to go after Jesse leaving Jesse caught up in legal jeopardy as a result. Devlin knows only to win at any cost but taking on Jesse is not a smart decision.
I have read all of the Jesse Stone novels and found Christopher Farnsworth’s insightful depiction of Jesse, Molly, Suit, Cole, and other Paradise characters spot on. His prose captures Parker’s classic writing style while keeping it fresh.. Dialogue is sharp and the action filled story moves forward at a rapid pace with Jesse searching for answers as he is determined to unravel the bind he has found himself in,
There is plenty of action including financial fraud, bullying by a seven year old, the usual town politics,, murders, and a cartel seeking vengeance. Farnsworth blends together all these different subplots with a deft touch. Big Shot is a highly entertaining book and is strongly recommended.
I thank G.P. Putnam’s Sons and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this outstanding novel.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the author’s second shot at the series, and from the chair I sat in while reading, he’s doing a pretty darn good job. It’s always fun to see small-town Paradise, Massachusetts, police chief Jesse Stone give a few bad guys (and slimy local politicians) their comeuppance, and he does it in spades in this one.
Ever since he became the police chief in the wealth-invested community of Paradise, former alcoholic Jesse Stone has bumped heads with the best of ‘em; not a few community leaders, including the town mayor, have done their best to get him fired – or make him so mad at them that he’ll quit on his own. That’s an ongoing theme throughout much of the series, but this time out, Jesse takes on a new opponent: ultra-wealthy Ramsey Devlin, who’s built a honker of a home (most will say a total eyesore) in Paradise who recently was acquitted of fraud under federal law – think Bernie Madoff times at least two. Construction of his new home clearly violates community standards, if not most of the local zoning laws, but he appears to have greased the palms of the “right” people to git ‘er done – most notably, perhaps, the mayor of Paradise, who’s never exactly been a Jesse fan.
Right off the bat, Jesse clashes with Ramsey, both by way of a physical altercation and letting him know in no uncertain terms his money doesn’t put him above the law. Needless to say, getting knocked on his kiester doesn’t (ahem) sit well with Ramsey, who makes it his mission to get even. Still another wedge comes between the two when Ramsey’s like-father-like-son kid bullies the son of Jesse’s current main squeeze and ER doctor, Rachel Lowenthal.
Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Jesse, a herd of drug dealers and pushers are making their way from Florida to Paradise. The reason isn’t clear – until it is. Before they hit the town limits, though, rich guy Ramsey disappears, leaving a boatload of blood on his home office floor that’s (oops!) discovered by Jesse. Suddenly, Jesse finds himself at the center of a suspected murder once again – but this time as the prime suspect.
How will it all work out? Is this the end of Jesse’s long career in law enforcement? All I can reveal is that the investigation heats up pretty fast, and readers have the pleasure of being in on the action as it unfolds. It’s another engaging and entertaining adventure, and I’m delighted to be one of those readers by way of a pre-release copy in exchange for an honest review. Good job!
Ever since he became the police chief in the wealth-invested community of Paradise, former alcoholic Jesse Stone has bumped heads with the best of ‘em; not a few community leaders, including the town mayor, have done their best to get him fired – or make him so mad at them that he’ll quit on his own. That’s an ongoing theme throughout much of the series, but this time out, Jesse takes on a new opponent: ultra-wealthy Ramsey Devlin, who’s built a honker of a home (most will say a total eyesore) in Paradise who recently was acquitted of fraud under federal law – think Bernie Madoff times at least two. Construction of his new home clearly violates community standards, if not most of the local zoning laws, but he appears to have greased the palms of the “right” people to git ‘er done – most notably, perhaps, the mayor of Paradise, who’s never exactly been a Jesse fan.
Right off the bat, Jesse clashes with Ramsey, both by way of a physical altercation and letting him know in no uncertain terms his money doesn’t put him above the law. Needless to say, getting knocked on his kiester doesn’t (ahem) sit well with Ramsey, who makes it his mission to get even. Still another wedge comes between the two when Ramsey’s like-father-like-son kid bullies the son of Jesse’s current main squeeze and ER doctor, Rachel Lowenthal.
Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Jesse, a herd of drug dealers and pushers are making their way from Florida to Paradise. The reason isn’t clear – until it is. Before they hit the town limits, though, rich guy Ramsey disappears, leaving a boatload of blood on his home office floor that’s (oops!) discovered by Jesse. Suddenly, Jesse finds himself at the center of a suspected murder once again – but this time as the prime suspect.
How will it all work out? Is this the end of Jesse’s long career in law enforcement? All I can reveal is that the investigation heats up pretty fast, and readers have the pleasure of being in on the action as it unfolds. It’s another engaging and entertaining adventure, and I’m delighted to be one of those readers by way of a pre-release copy in exchange for an honest review. Good job!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is Christopher Farnsworth’s second outing at continuing Robert B Parker’s wonderful series featuring Paradise Police Chief Jesse Stone and I think he is the best of those who have held the baton since Michael Brandman first continued it with Killing the Blues – the 10th book. There is something about the way he has picked up the main characters and has revitalised them but, at the same time, returned them to almost their origins. I really loved what he did with them in Buried Secrets and am please that has continued throughout this book.
In this book, we begin with Jesse having a bit of a run in with a belligerent drunk who, instead of accepting his fate, makes it all the more worse by taking a swing at Jesse who has no option than to dump him in a cell to sober up. Next morning Molly is shocked that Jesse has no idea who he picked up. It appears that Paradise is now home to Ramsey Devlin who has recently narrowly escaped conviction of mega billion dollar fraud, leaving a whole bunch of people and groups losing their life savings without getting justice. Long story short and it appears that Devlin has made an enemy of Jesse and starts a campaign of provocation so bad that mediation is required. But this falls over when Jesse goes to Devlin’s and instead of finding him, finds a big pool of blood. And, because of the history between them, he becomes the main suspect and gets suspended from his job.
This was a cracking storyline that hit the ground running for me, compelled me and held me captive all the way through, spitting me out at the end thoroughly exhausted but also wholly satisfied. He really has got right into the nitty gritty of Jesse, warts and all, and said warts are finely exploited by the bad guy herein. Long may this era continue.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
In this book, we begin with Jesse having a bit of a run in with a belligerent drunk who, instead of accepting his fate, makes it all the more worse by taking a swing at Jesse who has no option than to dump him in a cell to sober up. Next morning Molly is shocked that Jesse has no idea who he picked up. It appears that Paradise is now home to Ramsey Devlin who has recently narrowly escaped conviction of mega billion dollar fraud, leaving a whole bunch of people and groups losing their life savings without getting justice. Long story short and it appears that Devlin has made an enemy of Jesse and starts a campaign of provocation so bad that mediation is required. But this falls over when Jesse goes to Devlin’s and instead of finding him, finds a big pool of blood. And, because of the history between them, he becomes the main suspect and gets suspended from his job.
This was a cracking storyline that hit the ground running for me, compelled me and held me captive all the way through, spitting me out at the end thoroughly exhausted but also wholly satisfied. He really has got right into the nitty gritty of Jesse, warts and all, and said warts are finely exploited by the bad guy herein. Long may this era continue.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
November 9, 2025
Christopher Farnsworth’s Robert B. Parker’s Big Shot is the twenty-third book in the Jesse Stone series.
I love the character of Jesse Stone. He is one of those characters you can depend on to do the right thing despite the other characters who try to manipulate him for their own purposes. Jess has many faults, but he is a likeable character you would like to have as a friend should you need one.
Jesse is targeted by Ramsey Devlin, a hedge fund mogul, who managed to abscond funds in what looks to be a Ponzi scheme. No one seems to like this guy, who believes he is untouchable. Jesse's troubles begin when he finds Devlin sleeping it off in his car. Next up Devlin has a loud party which the neighbors object to and call the police. It is one thing after another until Jesse goes to apologize just to keep the peace. When he arrives, he discovers the door open and enters to find a pool of blood and no body. Everything spirals out of control and Jesse is suspended due to an IA investigation.
The book is 320 pages, (makes me happy) which isn't short but not long either. The story's pacing appears slow, but it quickly escalates. I sat there wondering why is this such a big deal with Devlin? Little did I know what was about to unfold. I can always picture Tom Selleck saying the words and going about his business to keep the peace in Paradise MA. This is the second book I have been lucky to read by Christopher Farnsworth. He has done an excellent job keeping Jesse Stone true to character. Molly is another character I love because Viola Davis is so wonderful in the roll.
It is a wonderful addition to the series. I hope to see many more. I highly recommend this book and series. You won't be disappointed.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
I love the character of Jesse Stone. He is one of those characters you can depend on to do the right thing despite the other characters who try to manipulate him for their own purposes. Jess has many faults, but he is a likeable character you would like to have as a friend should you need one.
Jesse is targeted by Ramsey Devlin, a hedge fund mogul, who managed to abscond funds in what looks to be a Ponzi scheme. No one seems to like this guy, who believes he is untouchable. Jesse's troubles begin when he finds Devlin sleeping it off in his car. Next up Devlin has a loud party which the neighbors object to and call the police. It is one thing after another until Jesse goes to apologize just to keep the peace. When he arrives, he discovers the door open and enters to find a pool of blood and no body. Everything spirals out of control and Jesse is suspended due to an IA investigation.
The book is 320 pages, (makes me happy) which isn't short but not long either. The story's pacing appears slow, but it quickly escalates. I sat there wondering why is this such a big deal with Devlin? Little did I know what was about to unfold. I can always picture Tom Selleck saying the words and going about his business to keep the peace in Paradise MA. This is the second book I have been lucky to read by Christopher Farnsworth. He has done an excellent job keeping Jesse Stone true to character. Molly is another character I love because Viola Davis is so wonderful in the roll.
It is a wonderful addition to the series. I hope to see many more. I highly recommend this book and series. You won't be disappointed.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
November 23, 2025
It has been a while since I read a book that grabbed me from the start. Robert Parker’s Jesse Stone series always did but I was suspicious of the new replacement author, Christopher Farnsworth. I needn’t have been. In Robert Parker's Big Shot, twenty-third in the series, he nailed Jesse’s voice, the well-established characters, and Paradise's small-town atmosphere. Though the plot took a somewhat pedestrian (predictable?) turn when Jesse became the primary suspect in the murder of a man because he publicly disagreed with him, Paradise's Police Chief remains non-judgmental when he doesn't get the support from friends he should have and assures any who will listen that he is innocent. Most believe him, but the weight of evidence is against him. When he commits the worst error any innocent man can--talk to law enforcement without a lawyer--Jesse's lawyer son arrives just in time.
Overall, as with all Jesse Stone books, the dialogue is clever and fresh and how he handles those who could do more to support him a lesson for all of us. Read. You’ll see. It’s not what you expect. I couldn't believe when the counter at the bottom of the digital book read 82% done. Shoot! I tried to read slower but that didn’t work. Highly recommended.
Overall, as with all Jesse Stone books, the dialogue is clever and fresh and how he handles those who could do more to support him a lesson for all of us. Read. You’ll see. It’s not what you expect. I couldn't believe when the counter at the bottom of the digital book read 82% done. Shoot! I tried to read slower but that didn’t work. Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Robert B. Parker created some of the greatest characters when he invented Sunny Randall, Spenser and in this case Jesse Stone. Christopher Farnsworth is the latest author writing about Paradise and its police chief. I do like this series and I think Farnsworth has captured the essence of Jesse. In Big Shot we get some great scenes filled with both action and humor worthy of Parkers legacy. Chief Stone is at his best in this story and I'm glad that we also get a lot of Molly, his trusty deputy. The story is as usual not very straight forward and Jesse has to fight the council to keep his job, but he also has some crimes to solve and he gets help from a few of his friends. I believe that Paradise didn't know how lucky they where when they lured Jesse to take over as chief of police. They thought they could manage him but it turns out that hiring someone who is good at his job drunk or sober and at the same time not easily impressed with money and power was a gift for the community. I must thank Edelweiss , Penguin Random House and G.P. Putnam's Sons for letting me read this advance copy.
December 9, 2025
In ROBERT B. PARKER’S BIG SHOT, written by Christopher Farnsworth, Jesse Stone is the Police Chief in Paradise, Massachusetts. It is after the summer season in the seaside town, and Jesse arrests the drunk driver of an expensive sports car. The drunk driver displays a threatening manner. I want to know what happens next.
The book grabs my interest right away. This is the 23rd novel in the Jesse Stone series originated by Robert B. Parker, and I think Christopher Farnsworth captures the voice of Jesse Stone. It is good to return to Jesse Stone’s world. I appreciate the concise dialogue. I think it is a good idea to give an explanation of the origin of Suit’s name in each book. I like when the chapters are short enough to keep the plot moving forward. I am so happy that Christopher Farnsworth is continuing the Jesse Stone series and look forward to reading future books. Thank you, Putnam and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of ROBERT B. PARKER’S BIG SHOT.
The book grabs my interest right away. This is the 23rd novel in the Jesse Stone series originated by Robert B. Parker, and I think Christopher Farnsworth captures the voice of Jesse Stone. It is good to return to Jesse Stone’s world. I appreciate the concise dialogue. I think it is a good idea to give an explanation of the origin of Suit’s name in each book. I like when the chapters are short enough to keep the plot moving forward. I am so happy that Christopher Farnsworth is continuing the Jesse Stone series and look forward to reading future books. Thank you, Putnam and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of ROBERT B. PARKER’S BIG SHOT.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, G. P. Putnam’s Sons, for letting me read and review an advanced copy of ‘Robert B. Parker’s Big Shot’, by Christopher Farnsworth.
As police chief of Paradise, Massachusetts, the Jesse Stone saga continues, this time finding him in a battle with a wealthy, crooked hedge fund manager, Randy Devlin, who beat his court case. It’s an enemy who has the mayor on his side, and one who has it in for Jesse. The situation gets worse as he and Deputy Chief Molly Crane both get into trouble, and Jesse has to prove his innocence in a possible disappearance/murder.
This was another great addition to the Jesse Stone stories, showing how many different ways he has to fight crime, antagonize the mayor, and lead his faithful staff in protecting the town.
As police chief of Paradise, Massachusetts, the Jesse Stone saga continues, this time finding him in a battle with a wealthy, crooked hedge fund manager, Randy Devlin, who beat his court case. It’s an enemy who has the mayor on his side, and one who has it in for Jesse. The situation gets worse as he and Deputy Chief Molly Crane both get into trouble, and Jesse has to prove his innocence in a possible disappearance/murder.
This was another great addition to the Jesse Stone stories, showing how many different ways he has to fight crime, antagonize the mayor, and lead his faithful staff in protecting the town.
October 26, 2025
Big Shot is an exciting thriller with non stop action featuring Jesse Stone and all of the characters in Paradise, Massachusetts we have come to know over the years. There is a plethora of action and subplots including cryptocurrency fraud, school bullying and antisemitism, small town politics, family dynamics, murders, etc. The pacing is great and the dialogue between Jesse and Molly is outstanding. This book is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys this genre and I thank NetGalley and G.P. Putnam’s Sons for the opportunity to read and review this novel prior to its publication.
October 24, 2025
For Fucks Sake
Please let this poor
bastard just
be dead.
I know many
creations live
on past their authors,
but those tend to be
brilliant cultural icons
from world changing
geniuses.
Bob Parker and
ANY of his creations
do not fit any of that.
His books
were at best
low brow fun.
Hardly worth immortalizing.
Just stop.
The books were never that
good to begin with.
Please let this poor
bastard just
be dead.
I know many
creations live
on past their authors,
but those tend to be
brilliant cultural icons
from world changing
geniuses.
Bob Parker and
ANY of his creations
do not fit any of that.
His books
were at best
low brow fun.
Hardly worth immortalizing.
Just stop.
The books were never that
good to begin with.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Christopher Farnsworth's second stab at the Jesse Stone franchise is a winner. He's getting the voice, and he certainly knows the characters. This time around the plot is a little more melodramatic than necessary, but he manages to ride the rollercoaster he's built for everyone. While the approach isn't as subtle as Lupica's, it's still better overall than other writers' attempts. After all, there was only one Robert B. Parker. And yes, I laughed out loud. (preview copy provided by NetGalley)
January 25, 2026
Christopher Farnsworth does the Robert B. Parker legacy proud with the latest Jesse Stone mystery Big Shot. It’s an intricate story with many villains and a satisfying ending. Jesse is the best Parker character behind Spenser and this story shows his growth dealing with alcoholism and a son he found out he had later in life. Farnsworth has put his stamp on the character and I can’t be happier.
Publishing February 10, 2026
Grade: A-
Publishing February 10, 2026
Grade: A-
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this eARC from Netgalley and am providing an unbiased review.
I love a good Jesse Stone story, and this one moved pretty quick. Nice to see at his age, Jesse is still one to get in the mix physically, especially when family is threatened. Good start for Jesse with a new girl (who has a son) and I know I would like to see more books following this one.
I love a good Jesse Stone story, and this one moved pretty quick. Nice to see at his age, Jesse is still one to get in the mix physically, especially when family is threatened. Good start for Jesse with a new girl (who has a son) and I know I would like to see more books following this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another great Jesse Stone story! Christopher Farnsworth expertly captures Robert B. Parker’s style of action, tension, and witty repartee in this next book in the series. Easily read as a standalone, Big Shot is a gem!
Thanks to NetGalley and Putnam for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Thanks to NetGalley and Putnam for the opportunity to read this ARC.
November 21, 2025
A particularly outstanding Jessie Stone episode! As usual, he's dealing with a whole lot of despicable characters. Farnsworth has been a great addition to this series.
December 25, 2025
Excellent addition to the series. Christopher Farnsworth has captured the essence of Jesse Stone that continues what Robert B. Parker created. Thanks to Edelweiss for the eARC.
January 1, 2026
I’m a Jesse stone fan. I thought Christopher Farnsworth did a great job, right tempo, reflected the characters accurately and I enjoyed the plot. I hope CF does more books.
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