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The Hanging Tree
For a hundred years, the residents of a rural Welsh village have been hiding the truth. Now, a newcomer has started digging around, uncovering more than just buried secrets.
Retired detective, Graham Williams, has moved to Bethgelert for a fresh start, determined to put the horrors of last year behind him. He has seen his fair share of disturbing scenes, but nothing prepares him for what he sees hanging in the gnarly old tree outside his front window.
Only one man can help him uncover the truth ...
Stephen Mallow has come a long way since he helped solve the mystery of Cherry Hollow. When his old nemesis calls and asks for help, he jumps in the car, ignoring the pain in his head and the hole in his heart. He’s ready to take on another weird and creepy small town mystery.
These two unlikely allies, whose main form of communication is bickering, start to work together to dig up the disturbing secrets of ‘The Hanging Tree’, but they soon realise there’s more to the story than they first thought.
A teenage girl is missing. The town butcher isn’t telling them everything. The tree seems to be speaking to Stephen ...
And someone is watching their every move ...
From Jessica Huntley, award-winning and best-selling author of ‘Jinx’ and ‘Horrible Husbands’, comes ‘The Hanging Tree’, a brand-new twisted thriller, perfect for fans of Claire Mackintosh, Lisa Jewell and Louise Jensen.
Retired detective, Graham Williams, has moved to Bethgelert for a fresh start, determined to put the horrors of last year behind him. He has seen his fair share of disturbing scenes, but nothing prepares him for what he sees hanging in the gnarly old tree outside his front window.
Only one man can help him uncover the truth ...
Stephen Mallow has come a long way since he helped solve the mystery of Cherry Hollow. When his old nemesis calls and asks for help, he jumps in the car, ignoring the pain in his head and the hole in his heart. He’s ready to take on another weird and creepy small town mystery.
These two unlikely allies, whose main form of communication is bickering, start to work together to dig up the disturbing secrets of ‘The Hanging Tree’, but they soon realise there’s more to the story than they first thought.
A teenage girl is missing. The town butcher isn’t telling them everything. The tree seems to be speaking to Stephen ...
And someone is watching their every move ...
From Jessica Huntley, award-winning and best-selling author of ‘Jinx’ and ‘Horrible Husbands’, comes ‘The Hanging Tree’, a brand-new twisted thriller, perfect for fans of Claire Mackintosh, Lisa Jewell and Louise Jensen.
- GenresThriller
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 4, 2026
54 people are currently reading
154 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Huntley
22 books436 followersJessica Huntley is an award-winning and best-selling psychological thriller author. She's an ex-British soldier and Personal Trainer and has been writing almost non-stop for the past four years.
She is now the author of sixteen books, including two trilogies, six standalone thrillers, two anthologies, a co-written horror project and a novella. She is both self-published and traditionally published with Inkubator Books and Joffe Books.
She writes books for thriller readers who like their stories dark and twisty with complex, yet memorable characters, who often suffer from relatable mental health disorders.
When she isn't writing, Jessica is either keeping fit, walking her dog or looking after her young son.
Sign up to her email list to receive news about her upcoming book releases, get a first look at covers and some thriller recommendations. Visit her website where you'll also be able to download a short story called "You Die ... I Die".
She is now the author of sixteen books, including two trilogies, six standalone thrillers, two anthologies, a co-written horror project and a novella. She is both self-published and traditionally published with Inkubator Books and Joffe Books.
She writes books for thriller readers who like their stories dark and twisty with complex, yet memorable characters, who often suffer from relatable mental health disorders.
When she isn't writing, Jessica is either keeping fit, walking her dog or looking after her young son.
Sign up to her email list to receive news about her upcoming book releases, get a first look at covers and some thriller recommendations. Visit her website where you'll also be able to download a short story called "You Die ... I Die".
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 18, 2025
The Hanging Tree is a perfect blend of a twisted thriller and a dash of horror. Myth, legend, or murder is the ultimate question in this chilling story that is saturated with secrets and deception. This character-driven story kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. It’s original, intriguing, and extremely entertaining. Thank you Booksprout for my copy.
January 9, 2026
This was such an atmospheric mysterious and binge worthy read!
It felt different to previous reads of Jessica’s that Iv read but I am so here for it! The story is told from 3 different perspectives Graham, Stephen and Sophia told in the third party narrative with Sophia’s perspective being from ten years previous and Stephen and Grahams being 2025.
Graham is an ex detective who has moved away from a village called Cherry Hollow where he and Stephen who is a journalist had worked on something together that was dark and heavy. This book doesn’t go into what happens there but gives some mysterious references to it that I am going to have to read ‘The Darkness Within Ourselves’ which goes into what happened at Cherry Hollow!
Graham has moved to a small sleepy Welsh village and after a year he has some serious weird goings on happening that bring him to rope Stephen in to coming along to help investigate, little does Graham know that Stephen has his own complex issues going on that he also brings with him.
It’s hard for a mystery to grip me as much as this book did, the eerie descriptions and the sinister goings on are seriously creepy. I did figure quite a bit of it out along the way but tbh that was part of the fun for me and didn’t take anything away from the enjoyment, because you never quite knew if you had it right!
Although saying that I didn’t see the ending coming and although sad I felt was such a moving ending that it really was perfect.
I enjoyed the characters and the quirks, the friendship Graham and Stephen had and the way they conversed awkwardly but lovely.
I also adored the Welsh language being spoken in the book on the occasion being used and spoken by some of the characters, it gave a real immersive feeling to Welsh village life. Although it’s not a village you’d want to live in I can tell you!
I really liked the end chapter, some really deep and profound advice and wisdom to take away from it.
Another brilliant book by Jessica
It felt different to previous reads of Jessica’s that Iv read but I am so here for it! The story is told from 3 different perspectives Graham, Stephen and Sophia told in the third party narrative with Sophia’s perspective being from ten years previous and Stephen and Grahams being 2025.
Graham is an ex detective who has moved away from a village called Cherry Hollow where he and Stephen who is a journalist had worked on something together that was dark and heavy. This book doesn’t go into what happens there but gives some mysterious references to it that I am going to have to read ‘The Darkness Within Ourselves’ which goes into what happened at Cherry Hollow!
Graham has moved to a small sleepy Welsh village and after a year he has some serious weird goings on happening that bring him to rope Stephen in to coming along to help investigate, little does Graham know that Stephen has his own complex issues going on that he also brings with him.
It’s hard for a mystery to grip me as much as this book did, the eerie descriptions and the sinister goings on are seriously creepy. I did figure quite a bit of it out along the way but tbh that was part of the fun for me and didn’t take anything away from the enjoyment, because you never quite knew if you had it right!
Although saying that I didn’t see the ending coming and although sad I felt was such a moving ending that it really was perfect.
I enjoyed the characters and the quirks, the friendship Graham and Stephen had and the way they conversed awkwardly but lovely.
I also adored the Welsh language being spoken in the book on the occasion being used and spoken by some of the characters, it gave a real immersive feeling to Welsh village life. Although it’s not a village you’d want to live in I can tell you!
I really liked the end chapter, some really deep and profound advice and wisdom to take away from it.
Another brilliant book by Jessica
January 10, 2026
John lives in Wales and is anticipating proposing to his girl. As he is drawing in his notebook he hears a sound but continues to draw. Then a nose is out around his neck and he is murdered. His soul is absorbed into the tree. Fast forward to 2025 and a man named Graham had retired to the country. He is walking to the top of the hill and when he gets there he sees what he thinks is a hallucination. Meanwhile Stephen is a free have journalist who has developed a following for writing about the weird and unusual.
Graham is a retired detective an be has a business relationship with Stephen. So after two more "hallucinations" and a perplexing puzzle he calls Stephen and invites him to help him to investigate.
This begins a long journey into a murder several hundred years before plus one almost recent disappearance. They face so some hostility and a bit of danger but continue with their work. Will they find what happened?
A fascinating and thrilling story that will send child down the reader's back.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Graham is a retired detective an be has a business relationship with Stephen. So after two more "hallucinations" and a perplexing puzzle he calls Stephen and invites him to help him to investigate.
This begins a long journey into a murder several hundred years before plus one almost recent disappearance. They face so some hostility and a bit of danger but continue with their work. Will they find what happened?
A fascinating and thrilling story that will send child down the reader's back.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 6, 2026
A Gripping Psychological Suspense Novel of Welsh Fictional Folklore and Dark Secrets!
In the Hanging Tree, Jessica Huntley builds psychological suspense centered around a fictional folklore story in a rural Welsh village and 2 unlikely men (a retired cop and journalist) who work together to solve the mystery of the town’s curse and a girl’s disappearance. Eerily haunting dark secrets are waiting to be revealed within its riveting pages! It’s the kind of fast-paced, masterful storytelling you won’t soon forget or regret having read it! The ending was. . . Darn! I wish I could tell you, but no spoilers here! 🤭
Well done, Miss Huntley! I’ve read many of your amazing books and they’re always a 5-star!
***I received an advance reader copy from the author via Booksprout. All opinions are my own.***
In the Hanging Tree, Jessica Huntley builds psychological suspense centered around a fictional folklore story in a rural Welsh village and 2 unlikely men (a retired cop and journalist) who work together to solve the mystery of the town’s curse and a girl’s disappearance. Eerily haunting dark secrets are waiting to be revealed within its riveting pages! It’s the kind of fast-paced, masterful storytelling you won’t soon forget or regret having read it! The ending was. . . Darn! I wish I could tell you, but no spoilers here! 🤭
Well done, Miss Huntley! I’ve read many of your amazing books and they’re always a 5-star!
***I received an advance reader copy from the author via Booksprout. All opinions are my own.***
November 28, 2025
**ARC Review**
The Hanging Tree
Author Jessica Huntley
Release date 4th January
Exceptional ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An exceptionally addictive thriller set in a small Welsh town where retired detective Graham Williams has upped sticks and started a new life after leaving the disturbing darkness behind.
After the horrors he had witnessed at Cherry Hollow, he moved to Bethgelert for a more relaxed life and solitude.
He looked out from his front window and was not prepared for what he saw hanging from the giant Oak tree, due to the mysteries that surround it is called The Hanging Tree which sits on top of a hill.
Graham calls on the one man who can help find the truth, journalist Stephen Mallow an old friend who helped on the solving of the mysterious events in Cherry Hollow.
The pair who were at odds with each other when they first met, get their heads together and have discovered during their investigation, the curse of the hanging tree, a missing girl Sophia the daughter of Frank a town committee member along with some townsfolk are hiding some of the past truths, and maybe of more sinister events and involvement.
Both Graham and Stephen have a feeling of being watched, and they are being drawn towards the tree, it's as if it's talking to them.
Can they get to the bottom of what's going on what the townspeople's involvement is, if they are?
Jessica Huntley has once again written an incredibly suspenseful thriller, gripping and fast-paced, that intensifies as it culminates with a race to save lives and the town.
With brilliant descriptive characters and stunning visual settings, Jessica's exceptional narrative of a tense creepy, and compelling story had me once again hooked.
The Hanging Tree
Author Jessica Huntley
Release date 4th January
Exceptional ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An exceptionally addictive thriller set in a small Welsh town where retired detective Graham Williams has upped sticks and started a new life after leaving the disturbing darkness behind.
After the horrors he had witnessed at Cherry Hollow, he moved to Bethgelert for a more relaxed life and solitude.
He looked out from his front window and was not prepared for what he saw hanging from the giant Oak tree, due to the mysteries that surround it is called The Hanging Tree which sits on top of a hill.
Graham calls on the one man who can help find the truth, journalist Stephen Mallow an old friend who helped on the solving of the mysterious events in Cherry Hollow.
The pair who were at odds with each other when they first met, get their heads together and have discovered during their investigation, the curse of the hanging tree, a missing girl Sophia the daughter of Frank a town committee member along with some townsfolk are hiding some of the past truths, and maybe of more sinister events and involvement.
Both Graham and Stephen have a feeling of being watched, and they are being drawn towards the tree, it's as if it's talking to them.
Can they get to the bottom of what's going on what the townspeople's involvement is, if they are?
Jessica Huntley has once again written an incredibly suspenseful thriller, gripping and fast-paced, that intensifies as it culminates with a race to save lives and the town.
With brilliant descriptive characters and stunning visual settings, Jessica's exceptional narrative of a tense creepy, and compelling story had me once again hooked.
November 20, 2025
Review
"Don't let the darkness win".
Yet another Jessica Huntley book i couldn't put down and flew through. I am just obsessed with the writing. The ending of the book broke me slightly, just so beautiful.
The book is very clever, I wasn't expecting the ending but it was fitting for this belter of a book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Don't let the darkness win".
Yet another Jessica Huntley book i couldn't put down and flew through. I am just obsessed with the writing. The ending of the book broke me slightly, just so beautiful.
The book is very clever, I wasn't expecting the ending but it was fitting for this belter of a book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 4, 2026
I had the pleasure of editing this book last year and what a journey it took me on! This isn’t your typical thriller - it does a deep dive into superstition, small towns and mental health which makes this book stand out from the crowd (what Jessica Huntley does best!) The ending will leave readers both satisfied and emotional!
November 14, 2025
The Hanging Tree grabs you from the first page and refuses to loosen its grip. Huntley layers secrets, lies, and razor-sharp tension into a taut, adrenaline-laced story that keeps you fully locked in. Bold, atmospheric, and brilliantly crafted—a standout thriller you can’t put down!
December 1, 2025
Jessica has truly outdone herself with this one, and I'm absolutely here for it!
In a rural Welsh village, residents have kept a century-old secret. Retired detective Graham Williams seeks a fresh start in Bethgelert but is confronted by a chilling discovery outside his home. He calls upon old ally Stephen Mallow, who has experience solving mysteries but is dealing with personal struggles. Together, they investigate the dark history surrounding 'The Hanging Tree,' uncovering a missing teenage girl, secrets from the town butcher, and unsettling signs from the tree itself. As they dig deeper, they realize they're being watched, suggesting darker forces are at play.
We're thrown into a dual timeline with a handful of characters and a few POVs, and let me tell you, the creep factor is cranked up to 100! It's a short read, but oh-so-intriguing, and I'm thrilled I picked it up now—it's the perfect companion for those early dark days. Honestly, I wish I'd had it for Halloween week to amplify the spookiness even more!
As you flip between Graham and Stephen's perspectives, you'll find yourself delightfully puzzled, piecing together the mystery bit by bit. Jessica masterfully holds back the juiciest details until just the right moment, keeping you guessing and glued to the pages, wondering what on earth is happening in this eerie town.
From the first page to the last, this book will have you in its grip, with chills that linger long after you've finished. It's a must-read for anyone who loves cult vibes, old folk tales, creepy short reads, and unexpected friendships, all wrapped up with a satisfying conclusion. This is a departure from what I'm used to from Jessica, but I absolutely loved it! It's a mystery within a mystery, and not all curses are what they seem…
I won't spoil the fun for you, so hurry up and add this to your TBR list, or you'll miss out on a delightfully strange read. And next time you're standing next to an oak tree, beware—you might just feel a spooky energy… Boo!
Thank you, Booksporout and Jessica, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In a rural Welsh village, residents have kept a century-old secret. Retired detective Graham Williams seeks a fresh start in Bethgelert but is confronted by a chilling discovery outside his home. He calls upon old ally Stephen Mallow, who has experience solving mysteries but is dealing with personal struggles. Together, they investigate the dark history surrounding 'The Hanging Tree,' uncovering a missing teenage girl, secrets from the town butcher, and unsettling signs from the tree itself. As they dig deeper, they realize they're being watched, suggesting darker forces are at play.
We're thrown into a dual timeline with a handful of characters and a few POVs, and let me tell you, the creep factor is cranked up to 100! It's a short read, but oh-so-intriguing, and I'm thrilled I picked it up now—it's the perfect companion for those early dark days. Honestly, I wish I'd had it for Halloween week to amplify the spookiness even more!
As you flip between Graham and Stephen's perspectives, you'll find yourself delightfully puzzled, piecing together the mystery bit by bit. Jessica masterfully holds back the juiciest details until just the right moment, keeping you guessing and glued to the pages, wondering what on earth is happening in this eerie town.
From the first page to the last, this book will have you in its grip, with chills that linger long after you've finished. It's a must-read for anyone who loves cult vibes, old folk tales, creepy short reads, and unexpected friendships, all wrapped up with a satisfying conclusion. This is a departure from what I'm used to from Jessica, but I absolutely loved it! It's a mystery within a mystery, and not all curses are what they seem…
I won't spoil the fun for you, so hurry up and add this to your TBR list, or you'll miss out on a delightfully strange read. And next time you're standing next to an oak tree, beware—you might just feel a spooky energy… Boo!
Thank you, Booksporout and Jessica, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 4, 2026
✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4✨
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - Jan 4, 2026
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• small town secrets
• dark village legends
• generational curse
• past and present timelines
• supernatural thriller
• hidden truth
• psychological suspense
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
This book goes back and forth between past and present, slowly revealing the story behind the Hanging Tree and the secrets buried deep inside a quiet village. The plot connects old deaths, missing people, and long hidden lies in a very gripping way.
This kind of dark supernatural thriller is my first time reading, and honestly, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The atmosphere is heavy, mysterious, and emotional at the same time. The author did a great job building tension without rushing the story.
The writing is smooth and descriptive, and the village setting feels real and eerie. Some parts were a little slow for me, which is why it is a 4 star read, but overall the story kept me hooked and curious.
I really liked how the book shows that sometimes the real horror is not the curse, but the people hiding the truth. The ending felt meaningful and satisfying.
Thank you so much zooloo book tour for the free ARC!
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - Jan 4, 2026
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• small town secrets
• dark village legends
• generational curse
• past and present timelines
• supernatural thriller
• hidden truth
• psychological suspense
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
This book goes back and forth between past and present, slowly revealing the story behind the Hanging Tree and the secrets buried deep inside a quiet village. The plot connects old deaths, missing people, and long hidden lies in a very gripping way.
This kind of dark supernatural thriller is my first time reading, and honestly, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. The atmosphere is heavy, mysterious, and emotional at the same time. The author did a great job building tension without rushing the story.
The writing is smooth and descriptive, and the village setting feels real and eerie. Some parts were a little slow for me, which is why it is a 4 star read, but overall the story kept me hooked and curious.
I really liked how the book shows that sometimes the real horror is not the curse, but the people hiding the truth. The ending felt meaningful and satisfying.
Thank you so much zooloo book tour for the free ARC!
December 1, 2025
Graham has moved to Bethgelert, Wales, after all the chaos he discovered in Cherry Hollow, The Lake District, he just wants peace now. But one morning when looking outside... He sees something lingering in the trees. The chaos has followed. With the help of his old pal Stephen, they're going to figure out what's going on in this small Welsh town.
Oh mighty! This was SO good. I loved the characters. I loved the eerie and unsettling small town. I loved the descriptions of the tree (I'm a proper nerd for trees! What have they witnessed over the years?! They existed before us, they'll probably exist after us. They know all our secrets! And the cover of this book! I don't care that the tree may be cursed. I love it. I'll die under it! I'm going to read it again in the summer - under a tree! Spooky! Come get me!) I loved the weird council members (although I hate real life ones!)
I LOVED the mystery and the present day being followed by the past.
This was a proper good slow burn thriller, which had my head bursting with what I thought was going to happen. It took a turn in a different direction for me (I never get plot twists!) and I thought it was great. One twist blew my little socks right off! I love it when a sentence catches me so off guard, I have to read it a few times.
Stephen and Graham are such memorable characters. I particularly enjoyed Stephen because, personally, I find him relatable! The author does a great job portraying him. The emotions!! Heartbreaking but heartwarming. I'm sad, but I'm inspired by this sort of thing!
I couldn't put it down when all the secrets are revealed but you've got to go figure that out yourself! This doesn't come out until January so if you want, you've got time to read The Darkness Series! (The Hanging Tree is a standalone set in the same universe) I loved knowing what Stephen and Graham were talking about! And if you read this first, I just know you'll be dying to find out.
I could say SO much more but I'm cursed by a word limit.
You heard it here my friends; THIS is my favourite Jessica Huntley book!
Oh mighty! This was SO good. I loved the characters. I loved the eerie and unsettling small town. I loved the descriptions of the tree (I'm a proper nerd for trees! What have they witnessed over the years?! They existed before us, they'll probably exist after us. They know all our secrets! And the cover of this book! I don't care that the tree may be cursed. I love it. I'll die under it! I'm going to read it again in the summer - under a tree! Spooky! Come get me!) I loved the weird council members (although I hate real life ones!)
I LOVED the mystery and the present day being followed by the past.
This was a proper good slow burn thriller, which had my head bursting with what I thought was going to happen. It took a turn in a different direction for me (I never get plot twists!) and I thought it was great. One twist blew my little socks right off! I love it when a sentence catches me so off guard, I have to read it a few times.
Stephen and Graham are such memorable characters. I particularly enjoyed Stephen because, personally, I find him relatable! The author does a great job portraying him. The emotions!! Heartbreaking but heartwarming. I'm sad, but I'm inspired by this sort of thing!
I couldn't put it down when all the secrets are revealed but you've got to go figure that out yourself! This doesn't come out until January so if you want, you've got time to read The Darkness Series! (The Hanging Tree is a standalone set in the same universe) I loved knowing what Stephen and Graham were talking about! And if you read this first, I just know you'll be dying to find out.
I could say SO much more but I'm cursed by a word limit.
You heard it here my friends; THIS is my favourite Jessica Huntley book!
January 7, 2026
Folklore, small town superstition, and decades old secrets make for a gripping thriller that pulls you in like a noose around your neck and refuses to let go until it is done with you.
When retired detective Graham relocates to a rural Welsh town to spend his retirement years in peace, he gets exactly the opposite. Discovering a weird scarecrow hanging from an ancient tree outside this new home, his life is flipped 180° while he tries to figure out where it had come from. Inadvertently uncovering the legend of The Hanging Tree and the stories of lost souls, Graham recruits on old friend to help his investigation.
I loved the journey through a whole century, connecting the past with the present in the most unusual of ways, and the familial superstition that is followed throughout the generations without question. Although I did guess the first part of the ending, I didn't guess the second part. Jessica Huntley once again creating another book that I just couldn't put down. I will definitely be looking at the tree in my garden differently from now on!
When retired detective Graham relocates to a rural Welsh town to spend his retirement years in peace, he gets exactly the opposite. Discovering a weird scarecrow hanging from an ancient tree outside this new home, his life is flipped 180° while he tries to figure out where it had come from. Inadvertently uncovering the legend of The Hanging Tree and the stories of lost souls, Graham recruits on old friend to help his investigation.
I loved the journey through a whole century, connecting the past with the present in the most unusual of ways, and the familial superstition that is followed throughout the generations without question. Although I did guess the first part of the ending, I didn't guess the second part. Jessica Huntley once again creating another book that I just couldn't put down. I will definitely be looking at the tree in my garden differently from now on!
January 8, 2026
Ex-Detective Graham has relocated from The Lake District to a small cottage in Wales. In amongst a small, rural community, he keeps to himself. That is until he finds a scarecrow hanging from the old tree on the hill. The town council put it down to a prank by the local kids and Graham cuts it down and puts it in his garage. The very next morning its back in the tree...how? Why? Who put it back up and how did they get unto Grahams garage?
Stephen is the journalist who worked with Graham on a previous case back in the Lake District and is on the look out for a new mystery to solve. When Graham contacts him, he races straight to Wales to help.
This is a fantastic thriller with folklore, mystery, murder, rituals...it has everything! I adored both the Main Characters and loved how Stephens ADHD & OCD were portrayed as well as the focus on mental health. Fabulous from Jessica again.
Stephen is the journalist who worked with Graham on a previous case back in the Lake District and is on the look out for a new mystery to solve. When Graham contacts him, he races straight to Wales to help.
This is a fantastic thriller with folklore, mystery, murder, rituals...it has everything! I adored both the Main Characters and loved how Stephens ADHD & OCD were portrayed as well as the focus on mental health. Fabulous from Jessica again.
January 5, 2026
Tropes:
• small town secrets
• dark village legends
• generational curse
• past and present timelines
• supernatural thriller
• hidden truth
• psychological suspense
• past and present timeline
• secrets
“Don’t let the darkness win.”
Some say the souls of the ☠️ live with in the roots.
Another Jessica Huntley book I couldn’t put down. I’m completely obsessed with her writing and will read anything she writes! She has a way of holding u in a grip, with twists and turns you don’t see coming. Leaving you on the edge of the seat turning the pages! Loved how we got to go back to the past and learn more about the tree and its history, and also the present getting a full picture of the story! The writing was smooth and descriptive. It’s emotional and suspenseful. I would definitely recommend you read this!
• small town secrets
• dark village legends
• generational curse
• past and present timelines
• supernatural thriller
• hidden truth
• psychological suspense
• past and present timeline
• secrets
“Don’t let the darkness win.”
Some say the souls of the ☠️ live with in the roots.
Another Jessica Huntley book I couldn’t put down. I’m completely obsessed with her writing and will read anything she writes! She has a way of holding u in a grip, with twists and turns you don’t see coming. Leaving you on the edge of the seat turning the pages! Loved how we got to go back to the past and learn more about the tree and its history, and also the present getting a full picture of the story! The writing was smooth and descriptive. It’s emotional and suspenseful. I would definitely recommend you read this!
January 6, 2026
Sorry for slacking once more with the blog post, but of course I jumped at the chance to read this one! As usual with Jessica this was full of suspense and gripping, with a dark feel and twists and turns that kept me on my toes and engaged.
This one felt like a slower burn than the previous books I read but it had strong character development and was very cleverly plotted with an ending that was actually quite beautiful and touching after a quite sinister read.
I enjoyed the multiple povs and how through different perspectives the pieces began to slot together.This was actually quite thought provoking at times too. And I like how theres links to her previous work which im now curios about!
Another hit for me 🎊
This one felt like a slower burn than the previous books I read but it had strong character development and was very cleverly plotted with an ending that was actually quite beautiful and touching after a quite sinister read.
I enjoyed the multiple povs and how through different perspectives the pieces began to slot together.This was actually quite thought provoking at times too. And I like how theres links to her previous work which im now curios about!
Another hit for me 🎊
January 12, 2026
I have a running joke when @jessica_reading_writing books are announced as tours that I break my ankles running to sign up for them so when one of the first sentences was ‘so one could easily twist an ankle if they weren’t careful’ it really made me chuckle!
This book was everything that I wanted it to be. It was tense, there is cult/folklore vibes and I love the fact it was set in Wales in an eerie village, it made it feel so atmospheric.
The story follows the 100 year legend of the eerie Hanging Tree and it is told through 3 POVS - a retired detective, a journalist and a girl who went missing ten years ago. This worked really well. It’s part of ‘The Darkness’ series which I’ll definitely be checking them out.
Also.. that ending.. if you know, you know. I cried so much!
If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys an eerie, atmospheric thriller!
Thank you zooloosbooktours and Jessica for letting me be a part of this tour!
I give this 5 stars!
This book was everything that I wanted it to be. It was tense, there is cult/folklore vibes and I love the fact it was set in Wales in an eerie village, it made it feel so atmospheric.
The story follows the 100 year legend of the eerie Hanging Tree and it is told through 3 POVS - a retired detective, a journalist and a girl who went missing ten years ago. This worked really well. It’s part of ‘The Darkness’ series which I’ll definitely be checking them out.
Also.. that ending.. if you know, you know. I cried so much!
If you have any content triggers, I advise you to read any trigger warnings beforehand.
I recommend this to anyone who enjoys an eerie, atmospheric thriller!
Thank you zooloosbooktours and Jessica for letting me be a part of this tour!
I give this 5 stars!
January 9, 2026
Yet again, Jessica Huntley has written a banger of a book! Her skill in weaving a story that keeps the reader enthralled in the book is second to none!
She has created a layered, tense and suspenseful plot with characters that are very well developed.
I just couldn't put it down until I had finished! Brilliant book! Can't wait for her next one!.
She has created a layered, tense and suspenseful plot with characters that are very well developed.
I just couldn't put it down until I had finished! Brilliant book! Can't wait for her next one!.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Brilliant thriller by Huntley.
The family curse theme is always a fun concept and this does not disappoint at all.
Graham and Stephen make a great team working through a crime that isn't clear as to whether it actually happened or whether someone is playing games. The prologue already gives a hint that there's a mystery to solve but there's so much more going on than you expect.
Things slowly unfold and the truth reveals the true nature of the villagers that Graham was slowly getting to know and ultimately results in a new friendship for him. It's just a rocky road to get there and he has to step out of retirement a little.
I really enjoyed this particularly the dynamic between Stephen and Graham. Barney's a good edition too 😊
The family curse theme is always a fun concept and this does not disappoint at all.
Graham and Stephen make a great team working through a crime that isn't clear as to whether it actually happened or whether someone is playing games. The prologue already gives a hint that there's a mystery to solve but there's so much more going on than you expect.
Things slowly unfold and the truth reveals the true nature of the villagers that Graham was slowly getting to know and ultimately results in a new friendship for him. It's just a rocky road to get there and he has to step out of retirement a little.
I really enjoyed this particularly the dynamic between Stephen and Graham. Barney's a good edition too 😊
January 4, 2026
“The Hanging Tree” by Jessica Huntley is a haunting, atmospheric thriller packed with long-buried secrets and rising danger. Retired detective Graham Williams teams up with Stephen Mallow to untangle a small-town mystery that only becomes darker the deeper they dig. Every new revelation tightens the tension and keeps the stakes climbing.
I especially appreciated how Huntley weaves themes of mental health and grief into the story. She portrays their impact with honesty and care, adding emotional depth to the suspense.
A gripping, intense, and chilling read—Huntley delivers a truly haunting thriller.
I especially appreciated how Huntley weaves themes of mental health and grief into the story. She portrays their impact with honesty and care, adding emotional depth to the suspense.
A gripping, intense, and chilling read—Huntley delivers a truly haunting thriller.
January 6, 2026
Here is my review for The Hanging Tree by Jessica Huntley
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this twisted thriller set in a little Welsh rural village, called Bethgelert, that has been hiding its secrets for about a hundred years. Also, a curse that has been hanging over the village as well. Graham Williams is a retired detective and moved into Rosemore Cottage about ten months ago. When he looks out of his front room window, he can see a big old oak tree that has been standing in the village for about a thousand years. He’s seen a few sights as a police detective but it doesn’t prepare him for what he sees one morning hanging from the tree. He rings Stephen Mallow who helped him with the mystery of Cherry Hollow and he agrees to drive to Graham’s so they can try to uncover what is happening in the village he is currently living in. I got into this story right from the start and I really enjoyed the storyline. The story was extremely well written and brilliantly thought out with a great plot. It was an intriguing story that held my attention. I think the author did some research before writing this story as it shows in the information used in the plot. It’s got a terrific twist which absolutely surprised me. Graham and Stephen made a great pair working together trying to work out what was happening. They bounced off each other well. The atmosphere was captured well. I’m looking forward to reading the series in which Graham and Stephen make their first appearance. Also, I’m looking forward to this author’s next book when it comes out.
Blurb :
For a hundred years, the residents of a rural Welsh village have been hiding the truth. Now, a newcomer has started digging around, uncovering more than just buried secrets.
Retired detective, Graham Williams, has moved to Bethgelert for a fresh start, determined to put the horrors of last year behind him. He has seen his fair share of disturbing scenes, but nothing prepares him for what he sees hanging in the gnarly old tree outside his front window.
Only one man can help him uncover the truth ...
Stephen Mallow has come a long way since he helped solve the mystery of Cherry Hollow. When his old nemesis calls and asks for help, he jumps in the car, ignoring the pain in his head and the hole in his heart. He’s ready to take on another weird and creepy small town mystery.
These two unlikely allies, whose main form of communication is bickering, start to work together to dig up the disturbing secrets of ‘The Hanging Tree’, but they soon realise there’s more to the story than they first thought.
A teenage girl is missing. The town butcher isn’t telling them everything. The tree seems to be speaking to Stephen ...
And someone is watching their every move ...
From Jessica Huntley, award-winning and best-selling author of ‘Jinx’ and ‘Horrible Husbands’, comes ‘The Hanging Tree’, a brand-new twisted thriller, perfect for fans of Claire Mackintosh, Lisa Jewell and Louise Jensen.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this twisted thriller set in a little Welsh rural village, called Bethgelert, that has been hiding its secrets for about a hundred years. Also, a curse that has been hanging over the village as well. Graham Williams is a retired detective and moved into Rosemore Cottage about ten months ago. When he looks out of his front room window, he can see a big old oak tree that has been standing in the village for about a thousand years. He’s seen a few sights as a police detective but it doesn’t prepare him for what he sees one morning hanging from the tree. He rings Stephen Mallow who helped him with the mystery of Cherry Hollow and he agrees to drive to Graham’s so they can try to uncover what is happening in the village he is currently living in. I got into this story right from the start and I really enjoyed the storyline. The story was extremely well written and brilliantly thought out with a great plot. It was an intriguing story that held my attention. I think the author did some research before writing this story as it shows in the information used in the plot. It’s got a terrific twist which absolutely surprised me. Graham and Stephen made a great pair working together trying to work out what was happening. They bounced off each other well. The atmosphere was captured well. I’m looking forward to reading the series in which Graham and Stephen make their first appearance. Also, I’m looking forward to this author’s next book when it comes out.
Blurb :
For a hundred years, the residents of a rural Welsh village have been hiding the truth. Now, a newcomer has started digging around, uncovering more than just buried secrets.
Retired detective, Graham Williams, has moved to Bethgelert for a fresh start, determined to put the horrors of last year behind him. He has seen his fair share of disturbing scenes, but nothing prepares him for what he sees hanging in the gnarly old tree outside his front window.
Only one man can help him uncover the truth ...
Stephen Mallow has come a long way since he helped solve the mystery of Cherry Hollow. When his old nemesis calls and asks for help, he jumps in the car, ignoring the pain in his head and the hole in his heart. He’s ready to take on another weird and creepy small town mystery.
These two unlikely allies, whose main form of communication is bickering, start to work together to dig up the disturbing secrets of ‘The Hanging Tree’, but they soon realise there’s more to the story than they first thought.
A teenage girl is missing. The town butcher isn’t telling them everything. The tree seems to be speaking to Stephen ...
And someone is watching their every move ...
From Jessica Huntley, award-winning and best-selling author of ‘Jinx’ and ‘Horrible Husbands’, comes ‘The Hanging Tree’, a brand-new twisted thriller, perfect for fans of Claire Mackintosh, Lisa Jewell and Louise Jensen.
January 8, 2026
Almost a century ago a body is found hanged from the centuries old oak tree at the top of the hill but for centuries rumours have abounded of the souls of dead villagers trapped in its bark.
Ex-detective, Graham, moves into the village and the tree stands out in the landscape from the kitchen window of the farm cottage where its last victim lived. By retiring, he’s hoped to escape the victims and death of his police work and particularly after his last case in the cursed village of Cherry Hollow.
When Graham finds a scarecrow hanging high in the trees branches he realises something sinister is at work and calls on the help of the journalist who helped unravel the truth behind the gruesome mystery at Cherry Hollow.
Stephen’s journalistic career is boosted by uncovering the truth behind the mysterious curse that blighted Cherry Hollow and he misses the adrenaline rush of investigative journalism. Additionally, he knows the attention his writing received as a result of uncovering the truth behind this curse won’t last without a new case for his pen to uncover.
Graham, skirts the tree, watching it from the safety of his small cottage at the bottom of the hill. But the tree draws him in. One day, he sees what looks like a body hanging from the tree and goes to investigate. It’s a crudely made scarecrow, probably kids messing about but his conscience won’t allow him to leave it there for some hapless dog walkers day to be ruined.
It’s higher than he thinks but eventually he’s cut it down. In the pocket are two folded pieces of paper. The first is a sketch of the tree dated 1925, drawn by its last victim on the night he died and the second is a crudely drawn missing poster for the great-great-great-granddaughter of John Hammel who disappeared almost ninety years after her grandfather’s body was found hanged by his girlfriend.
This is such a twisty mystery and its plot lines were still being uncovered right to the end of the story, making it a really satisfactory read which kept me guessing right until its final pages.
The original Cherry Hollow mystery, which is referred to throughout the story, has also been written and is available to buy, entitled: The Darkness Within. The Hanging Tree, is a meticulously plotted stand-alone story.
Ex-detective, Graham, moves into the village and the tree stands out in the landscape from the kitchen window of the farm cottage where its last victim lived. By retiring, he’s hoped to escape the victims and death of his police work and particularly after his last case in the cursed village of Cherry Hollow.
When Graham finds a scarecrow hanging high in the trees branches he realises something sinister is at work and calls on the help of the journalist who helped unravel the truth behind the gruesome mystery at Cherry Hollow.
Stephen’s journalistic career is boosted by uncovering the truth behind the mysterious curse that blighted Cherry Hollow and he misses the adrenaline rush of investigative journalism. Additionally, he knows the attention his writing received as a result of uncovering the truth behind this curse won’t last without a new case for his pen to uncover.
Graham, skirts the tree, watching it from the safety of his small cottage at the bottom of the hill. But the tree draws him in. One day, he sees what looks like a body hanging from the tree and goes to investigate. It’s a crudely made scarecrow, probably kids messing about but his conscience won’t allow him to leave it there for some hapless dog walkers day to be ruined.
It’s higher than he thinks but eventually he’s cut it down. In the pocket are two folded pieces of paper. The first is a sketch of the tree dated 1925, drawn by its last victim on the night he died and the second is a crudely drawn missing poster for the great-great-great-granddaughter of John Hammel who disappeared almost ninety years after her grandfather’s body was found hanged by his girlfriend.
This is such a twisty mystery and its plot lines were still being uncovered right to the end of the story, making it a really satisfactory read which kept me guessing right until its final pages.
The original Cherry Hollow mystery, which is referred to throughout the story, has also been written and is available to buy, entitled: The Darkness Within. The Hanging Tree, is a meticulously plotted stand-alone story.
Review of advance copy
I knew when I started reading this that the characters were from one of Jessica's previous series, but it's the one I haven't read yet! So this is my first time meeting some of these characters, and seeing that I have these books on my shelf, I most certainly want to read them asap.
The Hanging Tree felt like it was taking on a supernatural element, making the theme of superstitions and urban legend all that more eerie. Lots of little towns and villages are steeped in history and have their own stories that are passed down through generations. They have founding families, stoic landmarks, superstitions, and their own horror stories. The committee and their secrecy gave me some Hot Fuzz vibes. (great movie, you should watch it!)
The story grabbed my interest from that first chapter. The thrill of a centuries old murder to then become a case of a missing teenager, both from the same family but years apart. The creepy scarecrow, the town secrets and the creepy village committee. It all adds up to becoming quite the eerie thriller. It did start off a little slow, but it soon picked up the pace and by the final few chapters I was gripped.
There are chapters from both Stephen and Graham, but also from Sophia's pov from a decade ago. The back and forth in the time line, and the different perspectives from the men make the book quick, easy, and interesting to read. I like the friendship between the pair and how they work well together, and I really would like to read how that friendship started in Cherry Hollow.
How it all came together, the secrets uncovered both within the case but with the guys as well, I wasn't expecting that ending, it was a bit bittersweet.
The older I get, the more relatable Stephen and Graham are. They like their solitude, have few true friends, and some part of the body is always aching. All jokes aside, these characters highlight themes of grief and mental health and an eventual understanding that no one has to struggle alone. I think if you take anything from this book, apart from the twisty and intriguing thrill, it should be that there is always light, don't struggle on your own.
The Hanging Tree felt like it was taking on a supernatural element, making the theme of superstitions and urban legend all that more eerie. Lots of little towns and villages are steeped in history and have their own stories that are passed down through generations. They have founding families, stoic landmarks, superstitions, and their own horror stories. The committee and their secrecy gave me some Hot Fuzz vibes. (great movie, you should watch it!)
The story grabbed my interest from that first chapter. The thrill of a centuries old murder to then become a case of a missing teenager, both from the same family but years apart. The creepy scarecrow, the town secrets and the creepy village committee. It all adds up to becoming quite the eerie thriller. It did start off a little slow, but it soon picked up the pace and by the final few chapters I was gripped.
There are chapters from both Stephen and Graham, but also from Sophia's pov from a decade ago. The back and forth in the time line, and the different perspectives from the men make the book quick, easy, and interesting to read. I like the friendship between the pair and how they work well together, and I really would like to read how that friendship started in Cherry Hollow.
How it all came together, the secrets uncovered both within the case but with the guys as well, I wasn't expecting that ending, it was a bit bittersweet.
The older I get, the more relatable Stephen and Graham are. They like their solitude, have few true friends, and some part of the body is always aching. All jokes aside, these characters highlight themes of grief and mental health and an eventual understanding that no one has to struggle alone. I think if you take anything from this book, apart from the twisty and intriguing thrill, it should be that there is always light, don't struggle on your own.
January 4, 2026
🌳 The past has barbed roots 🌳
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The tree had been here long before them all. It had seen everything—and it was done keeping quiet.”
Jessica Huntley takes a quiet Welsh village setting, wrapping it in mist and memory, and then tightens the noose—slowly, deliberately, and brilliantly.
From the first chilling image outside Graham Williams’ window, The Hanging Tree sunk under my skin and refused to leave.
This story hums with unease. The kind that doesn’t shout, but whispers. The kind that watches from the shadows. Bethgelert feels ancient and complicit, a place where secrets have been fed to the roots for a century—and the tree remembers everything.
The pairing of Graham and journalist Stephen Mallow is inspired. Fractured, reluctant, and sharp-edged with grief, they clash and rub their way through a mystery that refuses to stay neatly buried. Stephen’s lingering trauma adds a deliciously unsettling layer, blurring the line between intuition and something far darker.
A missing girl. Tight-lipped villagers. And always, that tree—looming, watching, speaking in something far more deadly than words. Huntley’s prose is lean but atmospheric, her pacing relentless, her twists rooted in both human cruelty and the weight of history. This isn’t just a thriller; it’s a reckoning.
Verdict: Dark, eerie, and compulsively readable, The Hanging Tree is a masterclass in small-town menace and slow-burn dread. Jessica Huntley proves once again that she knows exactly how to turn silence into something terrifying. I devoured this—and I'll never look at a tree the same way again.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The tree had been here long before them all. It had seen everything—and it was done keeping quiet.”
Jessica Huntley takes a quiet Welsh village setting, wrapping it in mist and memory, and then tightens the noose—slowly, deliberately, and brilliantly.
From the first chilling image outside Graham Williams’ window, The Hanging Tree sunk under my skin and refused to leave.
This story hums with unease. The kind that doesn’t shout, but whispers. The kind that watches from the shadows. Bethgelert feels ancient and complicit, a place where secrets have been fed to the roots for a century—and the tree remembers everything.
The pairing of Graham and journalist Stephen Mallow is inspired. Fractured, reluctant, and sharp-edged with grief, they clash and rub their way through a mystery that refuses to stay neatly buried. Stephen’s lingering trauma adds a deliciously unsettling layer, blurring the line between intuition and something far darker.
A missing girl. Tight-lipped villagers. And always, that tree—looming, watching, speaking in something far more deadly than words. Huntley’s prose is lean but atmospheric, her pacing relentless, her twists rooted in both human cruelty and the weight of history. This isn’t just a thriller; it’s a reckoning.
Verdict: Dark, eerie, and compulsively readable, The Hanging Tree is a masterclass in small-town menace and slow-burn dread. Jessica Huntley proves once again that she knows exactly how to turn silence into something terrifying. I devoured this—and I'll never look at a tree the same way again.
January 10, 2026
I'm no stranger to this author's books now having already read seven previous releases.
But, saw that this book links to a series that I actually haven't touched yet.
Now, I don't know if this is the case - especially as the covers and titles don't match up - but it really didn't matter, as this was once again a fantastic read that had me gripped from the start.
Retired detective, Graham Williams moves away to escape his past, settling in a small rural Welsh village.
When he discovers a body hanging in the tree opposite his new place, he knows he won't rest until he's uncovered the truth.
Graham calls upon an old acquaintance, Stephen, who can't wait to come and reunited over a brand new case.
It's very clear from this point that the pair have history and I'm guessing some of their banter and discussions about the past will relate to the other books in the series - but although I felt this missing character development a little, there was enough here to keep us upto date and interested in the current case in hand.
I actually loved the way these two worked together - it did seem a little disjointed at times, but I liked this contrast in their personalities and think this helped motivate them both in a way.
Jessica's writing is consistantly good and I know going in that I'm going to have a great time with any of the books - but I found this to be particularly tense with that creeping dread running throughout as we look into a case crammed with secrets, folklore and an insular community who seem bent on being unhelpful.
As expected, another brilliant read that I couldn't put down.
But, saw that this book links to a series that I actually haven't touched yet.
Now, I don't know if this is the case - especially as the covers and titles don't match up - but it really didn't matter, as this was once again a fantastic read that had me gripped from the start.
Retired detective, Graham Williams moves away to escape his past, settling in a small rural Welsh village.
When he discovers a body hanging in the tree opposite his new place, he knows he won't rest until he's uncovered the truth.
Graham calls upon an old acquaintance, Stephen, who can't wait to come and reunited over a brand new case.
It's very clear from this point that the pair have history and I'm guessing some of their banter and discussions about the past will relate to the other books in the series - but although I felt this missing character development a little, there was enough here to keep us upto date and interested in the current case in hand.
I actually loved the way these two worked together - it did seem a little disjointed at times, but I liked this contrast in their personalities and think this helped motivate them both in a way.
Jessica's writing is consistantly good and I know going in that I'm going to have a great time with any of the books - but I found this to be particularly tense with that creeping dread running throughout as we look into a case crammed with secrets, folklore and an insular community who seem bent on being unhelpful.
As expected, another brilliant read that I couldn't put down.
Review of advance copy
The striking cover and intriguing description immediately caught my attention, and the story delivers on that promise. It begins with John, a young man waiting to meet his girlfriend at a tree overlooking the village. While passing the time sketching, a rope suddenly drops, and John is killed, giving the tree its ominous name: The Hanging Tree.
Ten years later, we meet retired detective Graham, who discovers a body hanging from the same tree, only to realise it’s a scarecrow. After taking it down and bringing it home, he wakes the next day to find it back in the tree. His questions to the villagers are met with resistance, fuelling his curiosity. Graham calls on his old friend Stephen, a reporter, and together they dig into the unsettling history of the tree, the village, and the disappearance of Sophia a decade earlier.
What follows is a tense, atmospheric mystery that ties past and present together, raising chilling questions: Was John’s death truly a suicide, or part of something far darker? And what secrets are the founding families hiding?
Verdict: A gripping, slow-burn thriller with an eerie setting and layered suspense. Perfect for fans of small-town secrets and twisty mysteries. It wasn't perfect (the ending felt a bit rushed) but an enjoyable read overall.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ten years later, we meet retired detective Graham, who discovers a body hanging from the same tree, only to realise it’s a scarecrow. After taking it down and bringing it home, he wakes the next day to find it back in the tree. His questions to the villagers are met with resistance, fuelling his curiosity. Graham calls on his old friend Stephen, a reporter, and together they dig into the unsettling history of the tree, the village, and the disappearance of Sophia a decade earlier.
What follows is a tense, atmospheric mystery that ties past and present together, raising chilling questions: Was John’s death truly a suicide, or part of something far darker? And what secrets are the founding families hiding?
Verdict: A gripping, slow-burn thriller with an eerie setting and layered suspense. Perfect for fans of small-town secrets and twisty mysteries. It wasn't perfect (the ending felt a bit rushed) but an enjoyable read overall.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 9, 2026
This book is part of a wider series by Jessica called The Darkness Series and is the first in the series I have read.
First up - I see Jessica... I must read Jessica... that is the Bookish way...
In this story we follow characters that if you have read the wider series, you will recognise - Graham Williams and Stephen Marlow.
The story follows Graham who moves to a quiet village to start afresh but of course... retired detectives never get that done they?
Naturally he calls Stephen who comes to visit, to help him to uncover the truth of the very disturbing village.
With a body hanging in a tree, death, curses and a decade+ old missing girl mystery - it's quite the tale!
I loved Graham and Stephen and I loved how Jessica touched on Stephen's health too - it broke my heart when I learned the truth of poor Stephen.
Graham is a no-nonsense fellow and a nose for sniffing out the truth. He is a fabulous 'partner' of sorts to Stephen as they balance each other out.
As always Jessica pulls you into the story and just doesn't let you go until the end... even then you need a moment to digest what you have just finished reading!
If you love dark mysteries that touches on the psychological then this one is for you!
First up - I see Jessica... I must read Jessica... that is the Bookish way...
In this story we follow characters that if you have read the wider series, you will recognise - Graham Williams and Stephen Marlow.
The story follows Graham who moves to a quiet village to start afresh but of course... retired detectives never get that done they?
Naturally he calls Stephen who comes to visit, to help him to uncover the truth of the very disturbing village.
With a body hanging in a tree, death, curses and a decade+ old missing girl mystery - it's quite the tale!
I loved Graham and Stephen and I loved how Jessica touched on Stephen's health too - it broke my heart when I learned the truth of poor Stephen.
Graham is a no-nonsense fellow and a nose for sniffing out the truth. He is a fabulous 'partner' of sorts to Stephen as they balance each other out.
As always Jessica pulls you into the story and just doesn't let you go until the end... even then you need a moment to digest what you have just finished reading!
If you love dark mysteries that touches on the psychological then this one is for you!
January 13, 2026
The story opens in Wales with John's life tragically cut short just as he is planning a proposal. While drawing, a sudden noise precedes a swift, fatal attack to his neck from behind. His soul is consumed by a nearby tree.
The narrative leaps to 2025 and introduces Graham, a retired former detective seeking a quiet life in the country. During a walk to a hilltop, Graham experiences a strange event that he initially dismisses as a mere hallucination.
Graham has an existing professional connection with Stephen, a successful freelance journalist known for his expertise in covering peculiar and unexplained occurrences.
Following two more "hallucinations" and a perplexing puzzle, Graham reaches out to Stephen for assistance with the escalating mystery. Their collaboration quickly transforms into a complex investigation, ultimately connecting a centuries-old murder with a contemporary disappearance. Despite facing opposition and danger, the duo is determined to uncover the truth. Will their relentless pursuit be rewarded?
This is a captivating and thrilling story, guaranteed to send shivers down the reader's spine.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The narrative leaps to 2025 and introduces Graham, a retired former detective seeking a quiet life in the country. During a walk to a hilltop, Graham experiences a strange event that he initially dismisses as a mere hallucination.
Graham has an existing professional connection with Stephen, a successful freelance journalist known for his expertise in covering peculiar and unexplained occurrences.
Following two more "hallucinations" and a perplexing puzzle, Graham reaches out to Stephen for assistance with the escalating mystery. Their collaboration quickly transforms into a complex investigation, ultimately connecting a centuries-old murder with a contemporary disappearance. Despite facing opposition and danger, the duo is determined to uncover the truth. Will their relentless pursuit be rewarded?
This is a captivating and thrilling story, guaranteed to send shivers down the reader's spine.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2026
When Graham Williams, a retired detective moves to a small village to escape his recent past, he realises that he’ll need to call upon his old acquaintance, Stephen Mallow, after making a grisly discovery hanging from an old tree close to where he lives. But what begins as a hunt to discover the secrets behind ‘the hanging tree’ soon takes a dark turn with a decades old mystery of a missing young girl. Both main characters are very relatable, with Graham feeling his age creeping up on him, whilst still being affected by the traumatic events of the past year. I found Stephen to be a complex character, a man who I felt a great deal of sympathy and love for. This was an atmospheric read full of closely guarded secrets and a strong sense of underlying threat in a close knit community. The tension also slowly built up until the book’s terrifying climax.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Hanging Tree although as it references events which happened to the two men in the past, I kept finding myself wishing I had read the previous books, which of course I will be rectifying. This is another great book by Jessica, which I would definitely recommend if you enjoy a tense and addictive read.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Hanging Tree although as it references events which happened to the two men in the past, I kept finding myself wishing I had read the previous books, which of course I will be rectifying. This is another great book by Jessica, which I would definitely recommend if you enjoy a tense and addictive read.
January 6, 2026
When I began this book, the prose hit me in a surprising way at first. It has a sort of third-person noir edge to it, paired with an over-described emotional interiority—which came across both interesting and slightly ironic. It took a little getting used to, but once I settled into the voice, it became very comfortable to read and actually added depth to the story.
There are a few twists that genuinely surprised me—I didn’t see them coming AT ALL. I appreciated that they were set up cleanly rather than thrown in for shock value. The characters of Graham and Stephen are both compelling on their own, and together they play off of each other fabulously.
It’s been a while since I was engrossed in a slow-burn mystery, but this one held my interest all the way through, the ending feeling both emotional and inevitable. This is a book that rewards a slow read and attention to it’s voice-driven writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There are a few twists that genuinely surprised me—I didn’t see them coming AT ALL. I appreciated that they were set up cleanly rather than thrown in for shock value. The characters of Graham and Stephen are both compelling on their own, and together they play off of each other fabulously.
It’s been a while since I was engrossed in a slow-burn mystery, but this one held my interest all the way through, the ending feeling both emotional and inevitable. This is a book that rewards a slow read and attention to it’s voice-driven writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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