The Shrine

The Detective's Daughter #10

by Lesley Thomson

Laced with character-based and situational humour, but with a compelling and layered murder mystery at its heart, THE SHRINE is part of the one of a kind Detective's Daughter series.

'Always a treat reading Lesley Thomson.' IAN RANKIN

YOU CAN'T RUN FROM WHAT YOU CAN'T SEE

Stella Darnell knows her partner, Jack, is lying to her. He's been secretive for months and is clearly hiding something – but it's not what you might think.

As Jack disappears down a rabbit hole, Stella craves distraction. When DI Toni Kemp asks for her help after a body is discovered in the quiet, unassuming village of Prestbury, she throws herself into the case.

Soon, she is pulled into a strange world where the presence of a once-famous psychic echoes through the lives of everyone she knew, even after her death...

Perfect for fans of LJ Ross and Kate Rhodes, this is the tenth gripping mystery in this must-read series that can be read in any order.

Praise for Lesley Thomson
'A perfect blend of Agatha Christie and Barbara Pym.' ELLY GRIFFITHS
'The final revelation is jaw-dropping.' SUNDAY TIMES

Genres: Crime

352 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication June 16, 2026

About the author

Lesley Thomson was born in 1958 and grew up in London. She went to Holland Park Comprehensive and the Universities of Brighton and Sussex. Her novel A Kind of Vanishing won The People's Book Prize in 2010. Lesley combines writing with teaching creative writing. She lives in Lewes with her partner.

Reviews

[Ceecee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stella Darnell is the Detectives Daughter, a deep cleaning enthusiast with her own company and an unofficial detective alongside Jack Harmon, Stanley the toy poodle, Lucie May an aging hack and in this one DI Toni Kemp who they meet on their last case, set in Sussex. Now Stella is alone and reluctantly on a stake out. She should much rather be cleaning but this one is personal. How so? Her relationship with Jack is strained since he discovered spiritualism, there’s a chasm between them and the stake out? It’s the spiritualist church which Jack has been frequenting. The couple seem to be at an impasse, so Stella impulsively accepts a holiday offer from DI Toni Kemp. Stella heads to Gloucestershire in their renovated campervan but trouble always seems to follow her as she finds herself drawn into an investigation after Stella discovers a body propped up against the shrine where a woman died decades before. The place is Prestbury and the shadow of a well-known psychic hangs over the village. It seems someone is out for revenge but who and why? Stella is on the case ably assisted by Toni and others.

I like this series, well, I must do as I’ve read them all! They are definitely on the quirky side which is probably why they appeal to me because they’re different. I like Lesley Thomson’s wry and rather droll style of writing and the way the story is often told through the thoughts of either Jack or Stella which is usually very entertaining. These two characters themselves are on the quirky side as both have their obsessions. I mean who likes cleaning so much apart from Stella and Mrs. Hinch? Jack loves being an London underground driver and here his apparent obsession with spiritualism takes the storyline in several different directions. I love the dynamics between this pair which adds another strand for the storytelling. As for Stanley - adorable.

Initially, the different plots strands are bit confusing especially via the point of view of one of the characters in Gloucestershire but then I have a lightbulb moment and it all starts to come together. Stella and Jack’s past meets the present and fuses with events in Gloucestershire. Stanley plays a key role but don’t worry, he’s fine. There are plenty of plot twists interesting characters and quite a lot of mayhem to keep me reading on.

My only reservation is that it’s a bit long-winded at times but overall, it’s another good read in a series that I’ve become fond of and I always look forward to what’s happening to Stella, Jack, Stanley, Lucie et al.

With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Head of Zeus for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.

[Georgina Candy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t realise when I signed up for this tour that this was book 10 in the series. It took me a little while to get into as well, not sure if it was the writing style that took me a while to get the hang of but once I did, I flew through it.

Stella is a cleaner but also dabbles in investigating on the side. Her and her partner, Jack, end up in a bit of an argument about spiritualism and she storms off in her camper to a town that her police detective friend, Toni, is staying. Unfortunately, once she arrives she stumbles across a dead body! And the town is home to a once famous psychic who’s passed and her daughter carries on the legacy - seems she can’t escape it!

As I said, it took me about 25-30% to get into this, but once I got the hang of the way the author writes and how the story was unfolding I read the rest of the book in a day. It was a good standalone, there is some reference to previous cases the pair have been involved in, but enough background is given. However, if you struggled with the start as I did, reading the rest of the series would benefit.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you want to find out why Lesley Thomson is one of the most acclaimed crime fiction writers writing today, pick up her latest novel, The Shrine, and you’ll soon find out why.

Stella Darnell always listens to her gut – and something is telling her that her partner Jack is keeping secrets from her. Deciding to follow him one evening, Stella is shocked when she discovers that Jack’s been visiting a psychic in an attempt to reach his late mother. Feeling betrayed by his lies and his lack of trust in her, Stella decides to accept DI Toni Kemp’s invitation to join her for a holiday in a small village in Gloucestershire. Stella had hoped for some time to lick her wounds and rest and recuperate from her recent heartbreak, she never imagined that she would find herself investigating a murder!

A body is discovered in a shrine where a woman died decades earlier and Stella finds herself desperate to uncover the truth about this mystery. With the village of Prestbury still haunted by echoes of the past and by the shadow of a once famous psychic, Stella must battle old ghosts to get to the real story. However, she needs to tread carefully because someone intent on revenge is watching waiting for the opportune moment to strike again and again.

Lesley Thomson is a rare talent in a crowded field who stands head and shoulders above most of the competition. Her crime novels are sharp, witty, exciting and infused with a warmth and humanity that makes reading them a pleasure. As a devoted fan of Lesley’s writing, I pounced upon The Shrine and thoroughly enjoyed it. A deftly written and cleverly told mystery that kept me guessing till the end, The Shrine is a gripping, entertaining and wonderfully absorbing crime novel I couldn’t get enough of.

If you were addicted to Elly Griffiths’ Ruth Galloway mysteries, you are going to love Lesley Thomson’s Stella Darnell books.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Shrine is another absorbing addition to Lesley Thomson’s Detective’s Daughter series—rich in character, laced with dry humour, and anchored by a mystery that slowly tightens its grip. Even ten books in, Thomson proves she still has plenty of surprises up her sleeve.

Stella Darnell remains one of the most quietly compelling amateur sleuths in the genre: methodical, sceptical, and always slightly at odds with her own emotions. Her discovery that Jack has been secretly visiting a psychic sets the tone beautifully—personal tension layered with just enough unease to make you lean in. It’s a very human conflict, and Thomson handles it with subtlety.

The Gloucestershire setting adds a lovely shift in atmosphere. What begins as a much‑needed escape quickly turns into something far darker when a body is found at a shrine tied to a decades‑old death. The blend of local folklore, the lingering influence of a once‑famous psychic, and the village’s tightly held secrets creates a deliciously unsettling backdrop. Thomson excels at weaving past and present together, and this mystery is no exception.

What really shines is the balance: moments of wry, character‑based humour sit comfortably alongside the creeping tension of a cold case that refuses to stay buried. Stella’s dynamic with Toni Kemp is a highlight, and the slow unfurling of the revenge plot keeps the pages turning.

Atmospheric, layered, and quietly gripping, The Shrine is a strong entry in a series that continues to feel fresh. Perfect for readers who enjoy intelligent mysteries with emotional depth and a touch of the uncanny.

with thanks to Lesley Thomson, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shrine is the last book in a long series by Lesley Thomson, and it feels like a strong and confident addition. I already knew Stella and Jack from earlier books, but here they seemed even more vivid, just like the other main characters. Stella continues to fascinate me. She is sharp, private, slightly odd in the most charming way, and always alert to the small details other people miss. Following her thoughts is one of the real pleasures of the story.
I loved the dog, because there were always witty and light moments whenever he appeared. He brings humour and warmth in a very natural way.
The plot moves with a steady, engaging pace. The mystery unfolds through quiet clues, old secrets, and the kind of tension that hides under the surface of a peaceful village. Even when the story slows down, it never loses its pull. It is the kind of book where you promise yourself one more chapter and then suddenly realise you have read far more.
What I enjoyed most was the character development. Stella and Jack feel honest and vulnerable, and their emotional journeys are as compelling as the investigation itself. Their relationship continues to evolve in a believable and touching way.
A very good page turner and a satisfying conclusion to the series. It left me wanting to revisit the earlier books with fresh eyes.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks for this digital copy, all opinions are mine

[Michelle Ryles · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shrine is book 10 in The Detective's Daughter series but don't be put off if you haven't read any of the earlier books as it works brilliantly as a standalone. I joined the series at book 8 so it was great to catch up with Stella again but there's enough information about her personal history for new readers to not feel lost.

This story is told from a dual point of view as we follow Stella's investigation and learn Jane's heartbreaking story. The way that the stories interweave is breathtaking and I was completely riveted from start to finish. It's like a double hook with the mystery of the present day murder and the avenging of an older tragedy. Add in the story of the famous village psychic and the book becomes impossible to put down.

The beauty of The Detective's Daughter books, thanks to Lesley Thomson including concise recaps where necessary, is that you can pick each one up and enjoy the self-contained mystery without having to know Stella's history. It does, however, make you want to find out and I definitely want to read the earlier books in the near future.

Compelling, intriguing and incredibly atmospheric, The Shrine is an entertaining and enthralling mystery with a fantastic female main character who virtually pops out of the page. Another cracker from Lesley Thomson and a highly recommended read.

[The Book Elf · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first of Lesley’s books that I have read and consequently this first time I have come across The Detective’s Daughter Series. It is the eleventh book in the series and though it does read equally well as a standalone I personally think I will go back to the beginning of the series and build up my knowledge of Stella and her past.

For me it took some getting into as I struggled to place all the different characters especially as it jumped between Stella and Jane in the telling .

However, once I had the characters sorted it started to become clearer in how it was progressing sniffing I have to be honest, even though I had an inkling, I didn’t get the final link until just before the end which is always the sign of a good Detective mystery.

It is a storyline which, for me, reminds me of Detective stories from the 60’s / 70’s. There is not the blood guts and gore that we seem to constantly encounter nowadays, and the subtlety and twists within the developing plots are synonymous with the writings of some of the first murder mystery writers that I came across many years ago .

This is one of those murder mystery books you can read at night without any fear of nightmares, however, I may be thinking twice about going camping and going into the shower blocks on my own late at night moving forwards.

[Sally Parker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stella Darnell is concerned that her partner Jack is secretly visiting a psychic in order to contact his mother who died when he was very young. The fact that Stella has no faith in spiritualism and is angry with Jack for concealing his visits from her has led to something of an estrangement between them. In order to escape the situation, Stella takes her camper van to Gloucestershire, where her friend Detective Inspector Toni Kemp is also having a holiday.
Within a short time Stella, Toni, and various friends are embroiled in a murder investigation which seems connected to a deceased 0nce-famous psychic who lived locally. In addition, running through the book is the narrative of Jane, who longs to avenge the death of her beloved friend many years ago.
I found the insertion of the "Jane" chapters made the story more confusing than it needed to be, and I was also a little surprised to come across several glaring errors missed by the proof reader - most unusual for writing of this quality.
Overall not the best in this series, but a good story nevertheless.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Detectives Daughter book features a cast of familiar characters, including some from Sussex.
It explores the murky world of mediums, and contacting dead people, while solving a cold case, and a present day murder.
At the start I was confused by the number of characters and the timelines, but very soon was engrossed.
Stella, a sceptic, is dismayed when Jack visits a psychic to find out more about his dead mother, and decides to have a break from him. She then ends up in a village where a well-known psychic is buried, and is embroiled in another case of deception, bringing danger to her, and Stanley, not to mention an ex who seems to be stalking her.
Along with Lucie May, and Toni from Sussex, and others, the case is finally solved very satisfactorily and Stella even has chance to use a spreadsheet.

Thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for the opportunity to read this book.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love when a new instalment in a series is released and I am reunited with characters who feel so familiar. This, the tenth book in The Detective’s Daughter series, certainly doesn’t disappoint.

Stella and Jack, alongside their trusted circle of friends, are once again drawn into a gripping investigation—this time weaving together both a cold case and a present-day murder. What makes this instalment stand out is its intriguing exploration of spirituality and mediums, adding an extra layer of depth and mystery to the story.

Lesley Thomson’s plotting and writing are as brilliant as ever, delivering a compelling and immersive read from start to finish. My only complaint? Finishing it means I now have to wait for their next adventure!

[Jane Hunt · Rating 4 out of 5]

It always takes me a while to get into The Detective's Daughter mysteries. When I do, it's a compelling mix of psychological suspense, complex characterisation, and a twisty murder mystery that makes for a satisfying read. It begins with Stella on a stakeout, and the subject is someone dear to her. It's another chapter in a tempestuous relationship between Stella and Jack, which is a defining element of the books in this series. Spiritualism is a recurring theme of the book, and it takes Stella on an impulsive holiday to a village near Cheltenham. It's an atmospheric mystery with many strands that gradually weave together towards a resolution. The concluding chapters are intense, keeping you immersed in the outcome.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

[Julia · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Shrine is the tenth book in the Detective's Daughter series. Not having read any of the previous books in the series I agree to the information in the blurb that this can be read as a standalone novel. The story blends a recent murder with a cold case from decades ago. Set in a tightly knit community in Gloucestershire that protects their own and their secrets the story slowly unfolds its layers.

I am pretty sure I would have enjoyed this mystery more had I read it with my eyes. Unfortunately, I listened to the audiobook and didn't like the narration. A female narrator might have been a better choice for the story that has two female detectives at the helm.

[Cathy Beyers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read all of the other books about Stella and Jack, I enjoyed reading this latest instalment. These detective stories are a bit quirky and almost always have some connection with the supernatural though they do not really focus on this aspect. The plot is well thought out and keeps you guessing, as usual, and the setting is very English, but that is part of the charm. It is nice to meet the same characters again and understand a bit more about their relationships in the past and the present. Solid quality.

[Julie Friar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stella finds out that Jack is seeing a psychic without her knowledge, she is very upset. She accepts the offer from a friend to have a holiday so off she sets in her campervan. She needs space and time to think. A body is found at a local shrine for a woman who died years ago. An investigation will commence that will be twisty. Set in a small village in Gloucestershire during winter this murder mystery will keep you guessing.

Very well written and well narrated novel (I listened to the audiobook). Very good characters in a well paced, multi layered plot. Very enjoyable.

[Michaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everyone knows I love a good police based thriller. And although it isn’t strictly directly police related there are elements of it within this one.

Dark and eerie at points. I did struggle a little in the beginning with the split points of view and different time lines that didn’t seem to match up. But it all came together a few chapters in.

A very good read with lots of twists and turns. I would definitely read more of this series.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant addition to the Detective's Daughter series.
I love these books: original, intelligent and just peculiar enough to be incredibly engaging.
The plotting is sublime: a vast array of seemingly disparate characters/themes/incidents all slowly and cleverly drawn together.
I don't think I have ever been quite so invested in a fictional relationship as I am in that of Stella and Jack!

[Rosie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I would perhaps feel differently if I had read the previous books in the series but I struggled with this one. Thompson focuses on each individual character rather than forming any relationships between them which made their writing feel disjointed to me; coupled with the very slow pacing this adds to the feeling of unease but does require more effort to read.

[mrsbookburnee Niamh Burnett · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book 10 in a series and I was able to enjoy it as a standalone, I will however be starting the series from the begining as I want to get to know these characters in more depth.

I enjoyed following Stella and Jack as they solved the mystery, which this book had plenty of, I liked the secret clues and that this was a steady pace but one full of tension.

[Robyn Lobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lesley Thomson's 10th book in The Detective's Daughter lives up to expectations. I have followed this series from when we first met Stella and Jack and can only say I enjoy reading about their adventures and quirky relationship. The Shrine begins slowly but if you are prepared to keep reading you will be rewarded by a story that gathers pace and keeps you guessing till the end.

[Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The Shrine” is the tenth instalment in Lesley Thomson’s acclaimed ‘The Detective’s Daughter’ series, featuring Steph Darnell, this time set in Gloucestershire.

Although I haven’t yet read the earlier books (despite owning a couple), I found it remarkably easy to immerse myself in this story. It works effortlessly as a standalone, which is no small achievement for a series ten books in. Thomson demonstrates real skill in striking the perfect balance - ensuring new readers feel fully oriented, while longtime fans remain engaged - without weighing down the present day mystery with excessive backstory.

Steph’s relationship with Jack has become strained following his growing involvement in spiritualism, so she travels to Prestbury in her camper-van on a solo mini break, in search of some distance and clarity. However, her tranquillity is exceedingly short-lived when she discovers a body deliberately placed beside a shrine, marking a woman’s death decades earlier. It soon becomes clear that the past has not been laid to rest. Prestbury is a village steeped in atmosphere, still shaped by the legacy of a famous psychic and widely regarded as one of the most haunted villages in England. Rumours of revenge soon begin to surface when the identity of the victim is revealed. Drawn by instinct and an unshakeable need for answers, amateur sleuth Stella can’t ignore the pull of another mystery. As she begins to unravel the truth, she’s far from alone: Toni, an off-duty detective inspector with sharp instincts of her own; Lucie, a witty, ageing journalist who refuses to be sidelined; Freddy the Fish, Toni’s steadfast long-time friend; and Jack, with loyal Stanley the dog in tow, all find themselves caught in the shadows of a case that refuses to stay buried. But as Stella digs deeper, secrets long thought laid to rest begin to stir and not everyone wants the past brought into the light.

I instantly warmed to Steph, her partner Jack and their lovable dog Stanley, in fact all the characters were endearing. However, I found Jane’s narrative a bit perplexing and the writing style occasionally confusing. Overall though, it was a very enjoyable and engaging book and I’d happily read more by this author.

#TheShrine - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Clare Didcock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love these series of books. There is something about them which brings me so much joy to read. I’m so glad I discovered the detective’s daughter!!!

[Marie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was disappointed.

[Mrs Sarah E Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shrine

I’ve read the whole series of the Detective’s Daughter usually as soon as they are published. Really find them interesting and love the characters

[Maura · Rating 5 out of 5]

great read

Full of humour and fun together with lots of murders. I loved it and can’t wait for the next read.

[mrs m s wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, as always

Excellent, as always. Great plot, suspenseful as always and a twist that I never saw coming. Jack , Stella et al live to fight another day.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book ten in the Detective Daughter series. It can be read as a standalone. However I think I might have enjoyed it more if I had the previous ones.
Jack is hiding that he’s been seeing a psychic from Stella. She’s a bit of a sceptic and feels betrayed.
She decides to join DI Kemp on a holiday. Of course she gets caught up in a cold case murder.
I usually enjoy a good detective novel. This one was a little hard for me to get into. Not sure why since other readers seem to like it.

[Fiona Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always look forward to a new Lesley Thomson and this one was very much worth waiting for. Once again we are back with Stella and Jack, plus the folk we met in Death of a Mermaid. This combining of two different strands works really well. The murder mystery/mysteries are as compelling as always, with great plotting and pace. But it is the development of these people's lives that enables us to reach underneath the bonnet and see so much more. This time there is the theme of spiritualism, seances and mediums that underpins their development, bringing the past to life both personally and impersonally. A cracking read and I am already ready for the next one - no pressure Lesley!