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Alex Delaware #41
Jigsaw
Brought to you by Penguin.
The gripping new crime novel featuring Alex Delaware from the bestselling master of suspense.
When a young woman is found dead at her kitchen table – with DNA belonging to her ex-boyfriend at the scene – psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis assume it’s an open-and-shut case.
But the guy has an airtight alibi. Could an enemy from his shady past have framed him?
Many miles away, a former LAPD officer is found brutally murdered in her garage. Her co-workers knew her as meticulously organized, but her house is full of junk and meaningless objects – except for the envelopes full of cash hidden within the chaos…
But as Alex and Milo dig deeper, they discover shocking links between the victims. It soon becomes clear they have a complicated – and deadly – puzzle to solve.
Praise for Jonathan Kellerman's New York Times No. 1 bestselling
'Sophisticated, cleverly plotted and satisfying' Sunday Telegraph
'High-octane entertainment' The Times
'Exceptionally exciting' New York Times
'Jonathan Kellerman has delivered the goods again, adding another instalment to a series that shows no sign of running out of stea' Shots Magazine
Jonathan Kellerman, New York Times bestseller, February 2024
Jonathan Kellerman 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026
The gripping new crime novel featuring Alex Delaware from the bestselling master of suspense.
When a young woman is found dead at her kitchen table – with DNA belonging to her ex-boyfriend at the scene – psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis assume it’s an open-and-shut case.
But the guy has an airtight alibi. Could an enemy from his shady past have framed him?
Many miles away, a former LAPD officer is found brutally murdered in her garage. Her co-workers knew her as meticulously organized, but her house is full of junk and meaningless objects – except for the envelopes full of cash hidden within the chaos…
But as Alex and Milo dig deeper, they discover shocking links between the victims. It soon becomes clear they have a complicated – and deadly – puzzle to solve.
Praise for Jonathan Kellerman's New York Times No. 1 bestselling
'Sophisticated, cleverly plotted and satisfying' Sunday Telegraph
'High-octane entertainment' The Times
'Exceptionally exciting' New York Times
'Jonathan Kellerman has delivered the goods again, adding another instalment to a series that shows no sign of running out of stea' Shots Magazine
Jonathan Kellerman, New York Times bestseller, February 2024
Jonathan Kellerman 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026
Audible Audio
Published February 5, 2026
1200 people are currently reading
946 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Kellerman
159 books5,839 followersJonathan Kellerman was born in New York City in 1949 and grew up in Los Angeles. He helped work his way through UCLA as an editorial cartoonist, columnist, editor and freelance musician. As a senior, at the age of 22, he won a Samuel Goldwyn Writing Award for fiction.
Like his fictional protagonist, Alex Delaware, Jonathan received at Ph.D. in psychology at the age of 24, with a specialty in the treatment of children. He served internships in clinical psychology and pediatric psychology at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and was a post-doctoral HEW Fellow in Psychology and Human Development at CHLA.
IN 1975, Jonathan was asked by the hospital to conduct research into the psychological effects of extreme isolation (plastic bubble units) on children with cancer, and to coordinate care for these kids and their families. The success of that venture led to the establishment, in 1977 of the Psychosocial Program, Division of Oncology, the first comprehensive approach to the emotional aspects of pediatric cancer anywhere in the world. Jonathan was asked to be founding director and, along with his team, published extensively in the area of behavioral medicine. Decades later, the program, under the tutelage of one of Jonathan's former students, continues to break ground.
Jonathan's first published book was a medical text, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF CHILDHOOD CANCER, 1980. One year later, came a book for parents, HELPING THE FEARFUL CHILD.
In 1985, Jonathan's first novel, WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS, was published to enormous critical and commercial success and became a New York Times bestseller. BOUGH was also produced as a t.v. movie and won the Edgar Allan Poe and Anthony Boucher Awards for Best First Novel. Since then, Jonathan has published a best-selling crime novel every year, and occasionally, two a year. In addition, he has written and illustrated two books for children and a nonfiction volume on childhood violence, SAVAGE SPAWN (1999.) Though no longer active as a psychotherapist, he is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Psychology at University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine.
Jonathan is married to bestselling novelist Faye Kellerman and they have four children.
Like his fictional protagonist, Alex Delaware, Jonathan received at Ph.D. in psychology at the age of 24, with a specialty in the treatment of children. He served internships in clinical psychology and pediatric psychology at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles and was a post-doctoral HEW Fellow in Psychology and Human Development at CHLA.
IN 1975, Jonathan was asked by the hospital to conduct research into the psychological effects of extreme isolation (plastic bubble units) on children with cancer, and to coordinate care for these kids and their families. The success of that venture led to the establishment, in 1977 of the Psychosocial Program, Division of Oncology, the first comprehensive approach to the emotional aspects of pediatric cancer anywhere in the world. Jonathan was asked to be founding director and, along with his team, published extensively in the area of behavioral medicine. Decades later, the program, under the tutelage of one of Jonathan's former students, continues to break ground.
Jonathan's first published book was a medical text, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF CHILDHOOD CANCER, 1980. One year later, came a book for parents, HELPING THE FEARFUL CHILD.
In 1985, Jonathan's first novel, WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS, was published to enormous critical and commercial success and became a New York Times bestseller. BOUGH was also produced as a t.v. movie and won the Edgar Allan Poe and Anthony Boucher Awards for Best First Novel. Since then, Jonathan has published a best-selling crime novel every year, and occasionally, two a year. In addition, he has written and illustrated two books for children and a nonfiction volume on childhood violence, SAVAGE SPAWN (1999.) Though no longer active as a psychotherapist, he is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics and Psychology at University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine.
Jonathan is married to bestselling novelist Faye Kellerman and they have four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another solid Alex Delaware novel. This one didn't really have the edge of your seat excitement, but the case was complex and interesting. The characters had distinct personalities which made it enjoyable. More of a good mystery as opposed to a thriller.
Thank you to Net Galley and Ballantine Books for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley and Ballantine Books for giving me this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 27, 2025
ARC for review. To be published February 3, 2016.
3 stars
Dr. Alex Delaware is back. Again. Along with Milo, Robin and Blanche (everyone’s favorite.)
This one revolves around two seemingly unrelated murders (yeah, right,) one of a former cop. There is some interesting side information about developmentally disabled adults and the life that some live, so I got a little bit of learning in.
This is a perfectly serviceable entry in the long-running series, not my favorite, but not my least favorite. Keller man does need to stop with the “you-know-whats” though. And zi’m not playing hide the ball here; multiple characters on several occasions refer to “you-know-what” or “you-know-where.” Use your words, people.
3 stars
Dr. Alex Delaware is back. Again. Along with Milo, Robin and Blanche (everyone’s favorite.)
This one revolves around two seemingly unrelated murders (yeah, right,) one of a former cop. There is some interesting side information about developmentally disabled adults and the life that some live, so I got a little bit of learning in.
This is a perfectly serviceable entry in the long-running series, not my favorite, but not my least favorite. Keller man does need to stop with the “you-know-whats” though. And zi’m not playing hide the ball here; multiple characters on several occasions refer to “you-know-what” or “you-know-where.” Use your words, people.
February 1, 2026
Jigsaw is Jonathan Kellerman’s 41st entry in his Alex Delaware series. I haven’t read them all, but I have read a good number of them over the years. The timing of the reading was perfect for me, a fast reading procedural from an author I like, to give me some down time from other, heavier books. Jigsaw didn’t disappoint on that score. Milo Sturgis has a new case involving the strangulation of a young woman. Then a possible suspect who may not pan out. A second woman dies in a stranger case that lacks suspects. As usual for me, I’m not going to go into detail about the plot. This was a slow burn of a novel, perhaps reflecting what the daily life for police officers is really like: action, search for evidence and investigation, watch and wait. Address other cases that come in. Repeat.
Here, as always, Milo consults with Alex Delaware, who joins in when he is available for both cases for questions of method, motivation and personality. This was a less active episode than many others with lots of searching, waiting, and checking with the lawyers about warrants. In spite of this, I enjoyed the story for what it offered and look forward to the next Alex Delaware novel. Rated 3.5* rounded to 3.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. This review is my own.
Here, as always, Milo consults with Alex Delaware, who joins in when he is available for both cases for questions of method, motivation and personality. This was a less active episode than many others with lots of searching, waiting, and checking with the lawyers about warrants. In spite of this, I enjoyed the story for what it offered and look forward to the next Alex Delaware novel. Rated 3.5* rounded to 3.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. This review is my own.
November 24, 2025
I generally enjoy this writer and this series.
This one? Just okay.
I didn't really get invested in our crimes until about the 70% mark. While our main characters were doing their normal thing (and I do love them), I found the details of our victims to be so light that I didn't find myself really caring. I was interested in why one murder was done in a certain way - and the reason behind that was...interesting. I actually kind of liked that the reason behind it wasn't deep. It was surprising.
Unfortunately, this one is kind of a forgettable entry in the series. I'll still happily look forward to the next one, but I won't remember this one.
* ARC via Publisher
This one? Just okay.
I didn't really get invested in our crimes until about the 70% mark. While our main characters were doing their normal thing (and I do love them), I found the details of our victims to be so light that I didn't find myself really caring. I was interested in why one murder was done in a certain way - and the reason behind that was...interesting. I actually kind of liked that the reason behind it wasn't deep. It was surprising.
Unfortunately, this one is kind of a forgettable entry in the series. I'll still happily look forward to the next one, but I won't remember this one.
* ARC via Publisher
September 4, 2025
While Kellerman may not be known for horror like Stephen King, he certainly knows how to paint twisted psychological pictures of characters and their reasoning behind their crimes. The human psyche can be a dark and scary place, how Kellerman comes up with these motives I am not sure I want to know.
What I appreciated most about this book is the banter between Milo and Alex. I have missed it in some of the prior books but Milo's deadpan deliveries in this book made me laugh out loud a couple of times. I enjoy the wordplay and the literary references (since Milo has a Master's in English lit). What also helps soften the darkness is Alex's darling Frenchie, Blanche, and his partner, Robin. Blanche brings a light in the darkness and every good dark story should have a furry light in it.
I will spare the plot details, you can read the blurb yourself, but suffice it to say I was hooked from the beginning and finished the book in one sitting. A true delight for Kellerman fans. I hope he can keep Alex and Milo going.
My thanks to Ballantine Books and Netgalley for this ARC. My opinions are my own.
What I appreciated most about this book is the banter between Milo and Alex. I have missed it in some of the prior books but Milo's deadpan deliveries in this book made me laugh out loud a couple of times. I enjoy the wordplay and the literary references (since Milo has a Master's in English lit). What also helps soften the darkness is Alex's darling Frenchie, Blanche, and his partner, Robin. Blanche brings a light in the darkness and every good dark story should have a furry light in it.
I will spare the plot details, you can read the blurb yourself, but suffice it to say I was hooked from the beginning and finished the book in one sitting. A true delight for Kellerman fans. I hope he can keep Alex and Milo going.
My thanks to Ballantine Books and Netgalley for this ARC. My opinions are my own.
November 6, 2025
Rate 3.5 Stars Rounded Up to 4
As someone who has read every book in this series, I always enjoy the next instalment. This one was like slipping on your favourite, well worn sweater and even though its a bit threadbare its comfortable and you love it. Longtime readers will appreciate spending time with Alex, Milo and the rest of the characters that frequently appear in these books
Truth be told, this wasn't "classic Delaware at its best". Sure, there are the crimes that need solving and the police procedural parts are fine but the usual depth of the characters seemed off, like something was missing. This won't be an issue for new readers who enjoy trying to solve murder mysteries. For those of us invested in the arc of character development over the whole series, this was just okay and a bit unsatisfying.
Disclosure: Received an uncorrected ARC of this book from NetGalley and Ballantine Books/Penguin Random House LLC (Thank you!) in exchange for an honest review.
As someone who has read every book in this series, I always enjoy the next instalment. This one was like slipping on your favourite, well worn sweater and even though its a bit threadbare its comfortable and you love it. Longtime readers will appreciate spending time with Alex, Milo and the rest of the characters that frequently appear in these books
Truth be told, this wasn't "classic Delaware at its best". Sure, there are the crimes that need solving and the police procedural parts are fine but the usual depth of the characters seemed off, like something was missing. This won't be an issue for new readers who enjoy trying to solve murder mysteries. For those of us invested in the arc of character development over the whole series, this was just okay and a bit unsatisfying.
Disclosure: Received an uncorrected ARC of this book from NetGalley and Ballantine Books/Penguin Random House LLC (Thank you!) in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I always look forward to a new release of an Alex Delaware novel by Jonathan Kellerman as it feels as though I am reconnecting with old friends: Alex a psychologist and police consultant, and Milo Sturgis, the LA detective and friend Alex consults with. Kellerman's newest book in the series, Jigsaw will definitely satisfy fans, and hopefully generate new readers as well. Alex joins Milo to discover the perpetrator of 3 crimes that initially don't seem related, yet are they?
Sophie Barlow, a 31 year old widow and fitness enthusiast, is discovered strangled at her kitchen table; little signs of violence and a dish with three smoked cigarettes in front of her. No ashtrays in her home; was the killer the smoker? Almost simultaneously a call comes in about another in-home strangulation, yet more gruesome, the victim's arms were severed. Milo was shocked to discover that the victim was Martha Joline Matthias, a former LA homicide detective- one of the first women achieving that distinction. Martha had been a loner and perhaps had some OCD tendencies while working, yet nothing prepared him for the state of her home or her frail appearance. As if those two cases weren't enough, a few weeks later Martha's forty six year old developmentally delayed daughter was discovered in a landfill with her head bashed in. Strangulation and death by blunt force trauma are not the typical methods to kill- were three in relatively close proximity and time just a coincidence or part of one killer's plan? Jigsaw is a well crafted, fast-paced thriller that keeps the reader guessing. Thank you to NetGalley, Ballentine Books and Jonathan Kellerman for the opportunity to read an ARC of Jigsaw; my review reflects my candid opinion. 4 stars.
Sophie Barlow, a 31 year old widow and fitness enthusiast, is discovered strangled at her kitchen table; little signs of violence and a dish with three smoked cigarettes in front of her. No ashtrays in her home; was the killer the smoker? Almost simultaneously a call comes in about another in-home strangulation, yet more gruesome, the victim's arms were severed. Milo was shocked to discover that the victim was Martha Joline Matthias, a former LA homicide detective- one of the first women achieving that distinction. Martha had been a loner and perhaps had some OCD tendencies while working, yet nothing prepared him for the state of her home or her frail appearance. As if those two cases weren't enough, a few weeks later Martha's forty six year old developmentally delayed daughter was discovered in a landfill with her head bashed in. Strangulation and death by blunt force trauma are not the typical methods to kill- were three in relatively close proximity and time just a coincidence or part of one killer's plan? Jigsaw is a well crafted, fast-paced thriller that keeps the reader guessing. Thank you to NetGalley, Ballentine Books and Jonathan Kellerman for the opportunity to read an ARC of Jigsaw; my review reflects my candid opinion. 4 stars.
November 18, 2025
Psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis investigate three cases. In the first, an ex-boyfriend was set up to take the fall. In the second case, the body of an older woman, a hoarder, is discovered in a freezer, with her arms severed. Her daughter, who frequently visits and may be mentally disabled, is missing. Despite their seemingly unrelated nature, could these cases be connected?
This is the 41st in the Alex Delaware series. I have read all of them; however, each one can be read as a stand-alone as Kellerman does a good job of filling in background for the main characters. Kellerman writes true police procedurals, albeit with a unique twist as Milo is unconventional and Alex provides psychological insight. The stories follow a familiar rhythm, with Alex and Milo chasing leads, generating and discussing different theories, interviewing persons of interest, and enjoying a few good meals. Kellerman’s descriptions are particularly vivid and entertaining, and he always manages to present fresh perspectives on cases.Whenever I open a Kellerman book, I can’t seem to put it down.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @RandomHouse #BallantineBooks for the DRC.
This is the 41st in the Alex Delaware series. I have read all of them; however, each one can be read as a stand-alone as Kellerman does a good job of filling in background for the main characters. Kellerman writes true police procedurals, albeit with a unique twist as Milo is unconventional and Alex provides psychological insight. The stories follow a familiar rhythm, with Alex and Milo chasing leads, generating and discussing different theories, interviewing persons of interest, and enjoying a few good meals. Kellerman’s descriptions are particularly vivid and entertaining, and he always manages to present fresh perspectives on cases.Whenever I open a Kellerman book, I can’t seem to put it down.
Thanks to @NetGalley and @RandomHouse #BallantineBooks for the DRC.
February 3, 2026
pages
For me. Reading Jonathan Kellerman’s Alex Delaware series is like wrapping myself in a fuzzy warm blanket; it is cozy and comforting. Although I have certainly not read every book in the series by any means, I have read enough to be familiar with the characters, who largely don’t change, even though the situations do.
In many such series, one has police detectives and sometimes one has other professionals solving the mysteries. In the Alex Delaware novels, there are both. There is Milo Sturgis, a gay police detective who is generally speaking, the odd man out in his department. Then there is Alex, who is a psychologist. I am not always a fan of the straight police procedurals but I do enjoy the more “incidental” detectives when other aspects are explored, as in the Delaware books. I also enjoy the friendship between them.
Now, not every book in the series is as good as the other. I have read a few that I thought were slow and did not maintain my interest. I thought Jigsaw was one of Kellerman’s better of his most recent novels. It started off with a bang. No slow burn here. If anything, there was a point later on, during the investigation, where the pace slowed down for a bit. Nonetheless, this was a classic and trademark entry in the Delaware series. It is for those readers that like a twist on the police procedural. While it helps to have read some of his prior books in the series, it is certainly doable to start here and get a sense of the characters. It is not for those who are looking for serious literature but that’s all right; we all need diversions now and then.
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Publishing for providing me with an advanced copy of this novel. All of the opinions expressed herein are my own.
For me. Reading Jonathan Kellerman’s Alex Delaware series is like wrapping myself in a fuzzy warm blanket; it is cozy and comforting. Although I have certainly not read every book in the series by any means, I have read enough to be familiar with the characters, who largely don’t change, even though the situations do.
In many such series, one has police detectives and sometimes one has other professionals solving the mysteries. In the Alex Delaware novels, there are both. There is Milo Sturgis, a gay police detective who is generally speaking, the odd man out in his department. Then there is Alex, who is a psychologist. I am not always a fan of the straight police procedurals but I do enjoy the more “incidental” detectives when other aspects are explored, as in the Delaware books. I also enjoy the friendship between them.
Now, not every book in the series is as good as the other. I have read a few that I thought were slow and did not maintain my interest. I thought Jigsaw was one of Kellerman’s better of his most recent novels. It started off with a bang. No slow burn here. If anything, there was a point later on, during the investigation, where the pace slowed down for a bit. Nonetheless, this was a classic and trademark entry in the Delaware series. It is for those readers that like a twist on the police procedural. While it helps to have read some of his prior books in the series, it is certainly doable to start here and get a sense of the characters. It is not for those who are looking for serious literature but that’s all right; we all need diversions now and then.
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Publishing for providing me with an advanced copy of this novel. All of the opinions expressed herein are my own.
February 4, 2026
igsaw is the 41st book in the Alex Delaware series from Jonathan Kellerman. He has been writing this character since 1985.
"A murder that looks like a quick solve is anything but. A body is found in a freezer and a vulnerable adult is missing. Milo calls in Alex to help because it's one of 'those' cases"
I'm always amazed that Kellerman can keep the stories and situations fresh and different. Alex Delaware is a consulting psychologist, but is just as driven as Milo to get to the truth and find the killer. I like that he's not always absolute, recognizing that there is gray in many motives.
This story has an old detective who is now a victim and became a hoarder after retirement. Kellerman hints around at where the killer came from and hides them in plain sight - but you won't guess. I like that things happen behind-the-scenes. Kellerman doesn't feel the need to explain every detail in an investigation. There's just enough for you to fill in what's going on. He does get very detailed with descriptions of people though so you know exactly what they're like. You can certainly feel the killer's anger in the pages.
Another good story from Kellerman.
"A murder that looks like a quick solve is anything but. A body is found in a freezer and a vulnerable adult is missing. Milo calls in Alex to help because it's one of 'those' cases"
I'm always amazed that Kellerman can keep the stories and situations fresh and different. Alex Delaware is a consulting psychologist, but is just as driven as Milo to get to the truth and find the killer. I like that he's not always absolute, recognizing that there is gray in many motives.
This story has an old detective who is now a victim and became a hoarder after retirement. Kellerman hints around at where the killer came from and hides them in plain sight - but you won't guess. I like that things happen behind-the-scenes. Kellerman doesn't feel the need to explain every detail in an investigation. There's just enough for you to fill in what's going on. He does get very detailed with descriptions of people though so you know exactly what they're like. You can certainly feel the killer's anger in the pages.
Another good story from Kellerman.
February 3, 2026
We start when Alex Delaware gets a call to help Milo on one of those cases.
Sophie Barlow, strangled while sitting at her kitchen table. On the table is a container with cigarette butts, complete with DNA from her boyfriend. But said boyfriend has a rock-solid alibi. Then comes Martha Mattias, a former detective who is found on a welfare check initiated by a neighbor. She had also been strangled, then had her arms removed before being stuffed in her chest freezer.
Two women strangled, but two seemingly unrelated murders. But are they…?
I have read most - maybe all? - of the Alex Delaware books. They are always so good, but I have to say that I found this one lacking. I'm not quite sure why; the mystery was interesting, but I was never truly invested in the tale. Regardless, I finished it in 1 day and will definitely be on the lookout for the next. And the next and the next. Without a doubt, this is my favorite series. So please, keep writing them!
Sophie Barlow, strangled while sitting at her kitchen table. On the table is a container with cigarette butts, complete with DNA from her boyfriend. But said boyfriend has a rock-solid alibi. Then comes Martha Mattias, a former detective who is found on a welfare check initiated by a neighbor. She had also been strangled, then had her arms removed before being stuffed in her chest freezer.
Two women strangled, but two seemingly unrelated murders. But are they…?
I have read most - maybe all? - of the Alex Delaware books. They are always so good, but I have to say that I found this one lacking. I'm not quite sure why; the mystery was interesting, but I was never truly invested in the tale. Regardless, I finished it in 1 day and will definitely be on the lookout for the next. And the next and the next. Without a doubt, this is my favorite series. So please, keep writing them!
October 4, 2025
A pleasant stroll with a familiar “family”.
It’s been an age since I picked up a Jonathan Kellerman book. When my voracious appetite for mystery first started bubbling into the magma it is today, Kellerman was a go-to. His characters in the Alex Delaware series felt like forgotten relatives from a bygone era.
And while the visit was pleasant, I found the style in the series sadly dusty around the edges. A lot of cerebral pontificating by the characters, mild action, and complex and interesting plot points made it a pleasant journey. But the style didn’t age well with me, and for that I only gave it 3 stars.
However, it’s never a bother to read a book under 300 pages, and it was nice to visit with Robin, Milo and Alex, even for a short while.
It’s been an age since I picked up a Jonathan Kellerman book. When my voracious appetite for mystery first started bubbling into the magma it is today, Kellerman was a go-to. His characters in the Alex Delaware series felt like forgotten relatives from a bygone era.
And while the visit was pleasant, I found the style in the series sadly dusty around the edges. A lot of cerebral pontificating by the characters, mild action, and complex and interesting plot points made it a pleasant journey. But the style didn’t age well with me, and for that I only gave it 3 stars.
However, it’s never a bother to read a book under 300 pages, and it was nice to visit with Robin, Milo and Alex, even for a short while.
February 7, 2026
Jonathan Kellerman and Alex Delaware never fail to keep me occupied. I read to keep my mind off of my illness. It works with these books. I've read every one of this series. Milo cracks me up. I don't always guess the killer. The characters are engaging and storyline fluid enough to keep me reading. Well done Mr. Kellerman, keep em coming. I started reading them so long ago and I'm old. Can't remember what I did yesterday half the time- I can re-read older versions.
October 7, 2025
Kellerman has delivered another exceptional book that I thoroughly enjoyed. The dynamic between Delaware and Sturgis is particularly engaging. This novel exemplifies the police procedural genre, which happens to be one of my favorites. It features several unexpected twists and surprises, along with intriguing insights into mental health. I have rated it five stars, and I highly recommend adding it to your reading list.
September 6, 2025
very enjoyable read. easy to follow and did not want to put it down. I love the adventures of Milo and Dr Delaware
September 24, 2025
“Jigsaw” by Jonathan Kellerman is another solid addition to the long running forensic psychologist Alex Delaware, and detective Milo Sturgis mystery series.
The story revolves around two separate female strangulations with some very strange and unsettling details that will keep you reading way past bedtime. If you have enjoyed Kellerman in the past, I highly recommend this fun, short and intelligent police procedural. For new readers this book will leave you wanting more of our favorite duo Alex and Milo!
Thank you NetGalley and Ballentine for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The story revolves around two separate female strangulations with some very strange and unsettling details that will keep you reading way past bedtime. If you have enjoyed Kellerman in the past, I highly recommend this fun, short and intelligent police procedural. For new readers this book will leave you wanting more of our favorite duo Alex and Milo!
Thank you NetGalley and Ballentine for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 8, 2025
My first Psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis book but I'll certainly go back and read others. Not sure how I missed this writer all these years. Nice clean writing -- not a lot of filler but also no long, drawn out chase scenes either (yawn). Characters interesting and real-feeling; plot twisted enough to keep me hooked without introducing ridiculous coincidences. Not necessary to read the earlier books (or at least I never felt like I was missing something)
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September 6, 2025Milo Sturgis has a dead woman who is found strangled in her home. Another woman is found dead in a freezer with her arms removed. How do these two cases tie together? That's where psychologist Alex Delaware and Milo find themselves as they investigate the two murders. It doesn't help that Milo has to hold back from questioning a man because of possible civil lawsuit against the department. In their customary manner, the two set out to solve the crime. Another great entry in the series. Thanks to Net Galley for the arc.
November 9, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and Ballantine (one of my favorite publishers) for this eARC.
Jonathan Kellerman’s Jigsaw (#41) is a cerebral and emotionally layered entry in the Alex Delaware series, where the puzzle isn’t just the crime—it’s the psychology behind it. With a dual murder investigation that spirals into a web of misdirection, Kellerman delivers a thriller that’s as much about motive as it is about method.
The novel opens with what appears to be a straightforward case: a young woman found dead at her kitchen table, DNA evidence pointing to her ex-boyfriend. But when the suspect’s alibi holds up and inconsistencies emerge, Lieutenant Milo Sturgis calls in psychologist Alex Delaware to help untangle the deeper threads. Soon, a second murder—an elderly woman found mutilated and frozen—adds a chilling dimension. The connection between the victims isn’t obvious, and the deeper Delaware and Sturgis dig, the more the case resembles a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces and misleading edges.
Kellerman’s strength lies in his ability to blend psychological insight with procedural precision. Delaware isn’t just profiling suspects—he’s dissecting the emotional architecture of the crime scenes, the relationships, and the community. His observations are subtle, often revealing more about the victim’s lives than the killer’s intent. The interplay between Delaware and Sturgis remains one of the series’ enduring pleasures: their rapport is built on mutual respect, dry humor, and a shared commitment to justice.
The pacing in Jigsaw is deliberate, allowing space for character development and thematic depth. Kellerman doesn’t rush the investigation; instead, he layers the narrative with red herrings, ethical dilemmas, and moments of quiet reflection. The victims are not just plot devices—they’re people with histories, secrets, and vulnerabilities. This humanization adds weight to the mystery and makes the resolution more satisfying.
Thematically, the novel explores isolation, aging, and the masks people wear to survive. The contrast between the young woman’s seemingly vibrant life and the elderly victim’s hidden despair underscores Kellerman’s interest in the psychological toll of loneliness and neglect. The title Jigsaw is apt—not just for the structure of the mystery, but for the fragmented identities and relationships that populate the story.
For longtime fans, Jigsaw offers a mature, introspective installment that deepens the emotional resonance of the series.
For newcomers, it’s a compelling standalone that showcases Kellerman’s skill at crafting intelligent, character-driven crime fiction. It’s not a breakneck thriller—it’s a slow burn with a sharp edge.
If you’re drawn to mysteries that prioritize psychological depth over sensational twists, Jigsaw is a rewarding read.
Jonathan Kellerman’s Jigsaw (#41) is a cerebral and emotionally layered entry in the Alex Delaware series, where the puzzle isn’t just the crime—it’s the psychology behind it. With a dual murder investigation that spirals into a web of misdirection, Kellerman delivers a thriller that’s as much about motive as it is about method.
The novel opens with what appears to be a straightforward case: a young woman found dead at her kitchen table, DNA evidence pointing to her ex-boyfriend. But when the suspect’s alibi holds up and inconsistencies emerge, Lieutenant Milo Sturgis calls in psychologist Alex Delaware to help untangle the deeper threads. Soon, a second murder—an elderly woman found mutilated and frozen—adds a chilling dimension. The connection between the victims isn’t obvious, and the deeper Delaware and Sturgis dig, the more the case resembles a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces and misleading edges.
Kellerman’s strength lies in his ability to blend psychological insight with procedural precision. Delaware isn’t just profiling suspects—he’s dissecting the emotional architecture of the crime scenes, the relationships, and the community. His observations are subtle, often revealing more about the victim’s lives than the killer’s intent. The interplay between Delaware and Sturgis remains one of the series’ enduring pleasures: their rapport is built on mutual respect, dry humor, and a shared commitment to justice.
The pacing in Jigsaw is deliberate, allowing space for character development and thematic depth. Kellerman doesn’t rush the investigation; instead, he layers the narrative with red herrings, ethical dilemmas, and moments of quiet reflection. The victims are not just plot devices—they’re people with histories, secrets, and vulnerabilities. This humanization adds weight to the mystery and makes the resolution more satisfying.
Thematically, the novel explores isolation, aging, and the masks people wear to survive. The contrast between the young woman’s seemingly vibrant life and the elderly victim’s hidden despair underscores Kellerman’s interest in the psychological toll of loneliness and neglect. The title Jigsaw is apt—not just for the structure of the mystery, but for the fragmented identities and relationships that populate the story.
For longtime fans, Jigsaw offers a mature, introspective installment that deepens the emotional resonance of the series.
For newcomers, it’s a compelling standalone that showcases Kellerman’s skill at crafting intelligent, character-driven crime fiction. It’s not a breakneck thriller—it’s a slow burn with a sharp edge.
If you’re drawn to mysteries that prioritize psychological depth over sensational twists, Jigsaw is a rewarding read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jigsaw
by Jonathan Kellerman is the forty-first book in the series featuring Psychologist Alex Delaware. As usual Lost Angeles Police Lieutenant Milo Sturgis has one of those unusual cases that could use Alex’s insight. It had originally looked like an easy case when a woman was found dead at her kitchen table and DNA was linked to an ex-boyfriend. Then, the case is turned upside down. Meanwhile an old woman is found brutally murdered and mutilated. It turns out the victim is someone Milo once knew. To complicate matters, her home is an extreme hoarder’s den with years of stored trash and objects.
Milo and Alex have been friends for years and while they often approach cases from different standpoints, their investigative and cognitive techniques gel as well as their dispositions, keeping the cases fresh and entertaining. At this stage of the series, the main characters are well known to this reader and have depth. Some secondary characters from previous books in the series show up to keep things interesting and provide additional awareness of how Milo and his team work together. It was great to continue to see Detective Alicia Bogomil have a larger role in this novel and Alex’s partner Robin showed up several times as well.
The novel captured my interest with its engaging writing style that rapidly drew me into the investigation into the murders. There are several twists and turns, but I wanted a little more suspense. (There is one action scene towards the end of the book.) However, the plot kept my attention and I was engaged throughout the novel. As always, Kellerman’s writing is polished and appealing.
This book will thrill fans of police procedurals who relish a story with realistic and diverse characters. Additionally, several themes are explored including mental health, murder, fraud, secrets, revenge, friendship, and much more.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Milo and Alex’s world and their latest cases. It was an engaging read. While this story isn’t high on suspense, it is a well-conceived and executed mystery. Readers that like the series, mysteries, and police procedurals should enjoy this latest novel. I don’t recommend jumping into this series at number 41, though. Start earlier in the series to have the best reading experience. I have read over 20 books in the series and plan to read them all. They’re never disappointing.
Ballantine – Ballantine Books and Jonathan Kellerman provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for February 03, 2026.
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My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Milo and Alex have been friends for years and while they often approach cases from different standpoints, their investigative and cognitive techniques gel as well as their dispositions, keeping the cases fresh and entertaining. At this stage of the series, the main characters are well known to this reader and have depth. Some secondary characters from previous books in the series show up to keep things interesting and provide additional awareness of how Milo and his team work together. It was great to continue to see Detective Alicia Bogomil have a larger role in this novel and Alex’s partner Robin showed up several times as well.
The novel captured my interest with its engaging writing style that rapidly drew me into the investigation into the murders. There are several twists and turns, but I wanted a little more suspense. (There is one action scene towards the end of the book.) However, the plot kept my attention and I was engaged throughout the novel. As always, Kellerman’s writing is polished and appealing.
This book will thrill fans of police procedurals who relish a story with realistic and diverse characters. Additionally, several themes are explored including mental health, murder, fraud, secrets, revenge, friendship, and much more.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Milo and Alex’s world and their latest cases. It was an engaging read. While this story isn’t high on suspense, it is a well-conceived and executed mystery. Readers that like the series, mysteries, and police procedurals should enjoy this latest novel. I don’t recommend jumping into this series at number 41, though. Start earlier in the series to have the best reading experience. I have read over 20 books in the series and plan to read them all. They’re never disappointing.
Ballantine – Ballantine Books and Jonathan Kellerman provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for February 03, 2026.
--------------------------------------
My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
"Doing nothing is the most tiresome job in the world because you cannot quit and rest." (Anonymous)
That's the kind of vibe I got from Jigsaw, the latest Jonathan Kellerman novel. Usually Kellerman's writing is sparkin' and lined with fast action and intriguing scenarios. This one was at a simmer and didn't even get near a boiling point. Hey, you say. Wasn't there a mutilated body found in a freezer? Yeah, but we danced around that creepy find chapter after chapter.
Alex Delaware is a renowned psychiatrist who is frequently called upon as a psych consultant by his best friend, Milo Sturgis, a homicide detective in L.A.. We've grown to love Alex, his wife Robin, and their French Bulldog, Blanche. Prior cases with this dynamic duo have been amazing.
The body of a young woman has been found and the boyfriend becomes the target suspect. There's even cigarette butts with his DNA found near the body. But did he do it? Then comes the freezer case with the "unattached" woman who spent her life as mega hoarder. Sifting for clues will be a monumental experience. And then Kellerman slips in the body of a young woman found in a dump. All these cases will be weaved together like a demented spider's web.
Jonathan Kellerman is a brilliant writer. No further discussion there. But Jigsaw just seemed so low key in comparison to his past works. We seem to tread water for the bulk of the novel before an out-of-nowhere thread appears. It seemed to be a weak plant to find closure for this storyline. As readers, we felt duped. No titillating clues which normally seep in throughout. Too many deadends.
Jigsaw is still a worthy read. Kellerman sees to that with its set-up and its deep psychological tones. Authors can't always hit it outta the park every time. Don't glaze over at this one being #41. Some of us weren't even alive when Kellerman began writing. Pick up the latest ones like I did. Kellerman still reigns as one of the best.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Ballantine Books and to the talented Jonathan Kellerman for the opportunity.
That's the kind of vibe I got from Jigsaw, the latest Jonathan Kellerman novel. Usually Kellerman's writing is sparkin' and lined with fast action and intriguing scenarios. This one was at a simmer and didn't even get near a boiling point. Hey, you say. Wasn't there a mutilated body found in a freezer? Yeah, but we danced around that creepy find chapter after chapter.
Alex Delaware is a renowned psychiatrist who is frequently called upon as a psych consultant by his best friend, Milo Sturgis, a homicide detective in L.A.. We've grown to love Alex, his wife Robin, and their French Bulldog, Blanche. Prior cases with this dynamic duo have been amazing.
The body of a young woman has been found and the boyfriend becomes the target suspect. There's even cigarette butts with his DNA found near the body. But did he do it? Then comes the freezer case with the "unattached" woman who spent her life as mega hoarder. Sifting for clues will be a monumental experience. And then Kellerman slips in the body of a young woman found in a dump. All these cases will be weaved together like a demented spider's web.
Jonathan Kellerman is a brilliant writer. No further discussion there. But Jigsaw just seemed so low key in comparison to his past works. We seem to tread water for the bulk of the novel before an out-of-nowhere thread appears. It seemed to be a weak plant to find closure for this storyline. As readers, we felt duped. No titillating clues which normally seep in throughout. Too many deadends.
Jigsaw is still a worthy read. Kellerman sees to that with its set-up and its deep psychological tones. Authors can't always hit it outta the park every time. Don't glaze over at this one being #41. Some of us weren't even alive when Kellerman began writing. Pick up the latest ones like I did. Kellerman still reigns as one of the best.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Ballantine Books and to the talented Jonathan Kellerman for the opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow – can it be that this is the 41st book in this wonderful series? I’ve been there almost from the beginning, though I’ve reviewed only 16 since starting my book blog. And you know what? I enjoyed every single one and looked forward to the next – and this one’s no exception.
The case started out like a slam-dunk; a young woman was found strangled in her own home, and strong evidence pointed to her ex-boyfriend, who was to be rounded up and charged. Until, that is, his hotshot, in-your-face attorney comes to his rescue, insisting he has an iron-clad alibi. So for homicide lieutenant Milo Sturgis, it was back to the drawing board (or should I say the murder board), and he calls in his long-time trusted friend, psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware, who’s a long-standing police consultant.
Just as they’re getting their heads together trying to poke holes in the suspect’s alibi, another murder happens; this one, an elderly woman whose body turned up in the freezer in her garage – appendages disengaged and rearranged. The house itself lends no clues; turns out she’s a big-time hoarder; just moving from room to room poses the threat of an avalanche. Complicating things is that she’s someone Milo used to know, and stuffed in between all that mess are envelopes full of cash – clearly more than a person like her would be likely to earn legitimately.
Then a third dead body turns up, and little by little, clues pile up – eventually suggesting that the cases may be not only related, but connected to a really nasty bad guy. But how? Learning that adds an additional dimension to the investigation, keeping both Milo and Alex busy (which, despite their protestations, means doing what they both love in sunny California and gives Alex’s long-time main squeeze, Robin, time to work on her professional guitar restoration projects. Of course, it all works out in the end – with a bit of a twist that wasn’t obvious along the way. Another winner in my book, for which I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to get up close and personal by way of a pre-release copy. Now bring on the next one!
The case started out like a slam-dunk; a young woman was found strangled in her own home, and strong evidence pointed to her ex-boyfriend, who was to be rounded up and charged. Until, that is, his hotshot, in-your-face attorney comes to his rescue, insisting he has an iron-clad alibi. So for homicide lieutenant Milo Sturgis, it was back to the drawing board (or should I say the murder board), and he calls in his long-time trusted friend, psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware, who’s a long-standing police consultant.
Just as they’re getting their heads together trying to poke holes in the suspect’s alibi, another murder happens; this one, an elderly woman whose body turned up in the freezer in her garage – appendages disengaged and rearranged. The house itself lends no clues; turns out she’s a big-time hoarder; just moving from room to room poses the threat of an avalanche. Complicating things is that she’s someone Milo used to know, and stuffed in between all that mess are envelopes full of cash – clearly more than a person like her would be likely to earn legitimately.
Then a third dead body turns up, and little by little, clues pile up – eventually suggesting that the cases may be not only related, but connected to a really nasty bad guy. But how? Learning that adds an additional dimension to the investigation, keeping both Milo and Alex busy (which, despite their protestations, means doing what they both love in sunny California and gives Alex’s long-time main squeeze, Robin, time to work on her professional guitar restoration projects. Of course, it all works out in the end – with a bit of a twist that wasn’t obvious along the way. Another winner in my book, for which I thank the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to get up close and personal by way of a pre-release copy. Now bring on the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jigsaw by Jonathan Kellerman is a very highly recommended investigative mystery. This is a satisfying 41st addition to the Alex Delaware series and those following the long-running series will welcome returning to check in with Alex, Milo, Robin and Blanche.
Psychologist Alex Delaware is contacted by Detective Milo Sturgis to assist with two cases. In the first case, Sophie Barlow, a young woman, is found dead at her kitchen table. DNA on cigarette butts indicate her ex-boyfriend, but he has an airtight alibi, so the investigation is stymied. The second case is of an old woman, Martha Joline Matthias, who was murdered and her mutilated body was found in a deep freeze. She was a former police detective and Milo knew her. Martha was also a hoarder and her home is packed with things and envelopes of cash. During the investigation they find a tenuous connection between the victims, but the perpetrator is a mystery.
Reading an Alex Delaware novel is always a welcomed, comfortable experience. You appreciate the fact that the writing will be excellent, the characters are well-known, and the mystery/investigation will be compelling and hold your complete attention. As fans of the series know, Milo always calls psychologist Alex Delaware, his best friend and a long-term consultant on “those cases.” The ones that are different, and these cases fit that expectation.
If you are new to the series, the character development may seem spare, but as installment 41 in the series, those who have been following the series for years deeply know these characters and their background. Reading a new installment of the series is returning to characters that are very well known while they must solve complex, unpredictable cases.
The pace is fast, the page count low, the case intelligent, and the characters known so Jigsaw was a pleasant diversion. Thanks to Ballantine Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via . My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0....
Psychologist Alex Delaware is contacted by Detective Milo Sturgis to assist with two cases. In the first case, Sophie Barlow, a young woman, is found dead at her kitchen table. DNA on cigarette butts indicate her ex-boyfriend, but he has an airtight alibi, so the investigation is stymied. The second case is of an old woman, Martha Joline Matthias, who was murdered and her mutilated body was found in a deep freeze. She was a former police detective and Milo knew her. Martha was also a hoarder and her home is packed with things and envelopes of cash. During the investigation they find a tenuous connection between the victims, but the perpetrator is a mystery.
Reading an Alex Delaware novel is always a welcomed, comfortable experience. You appreciate the fact that the writing will be excellent, the characters are well-known, and the mystery/investigation will be compelling and hold your complete attention. As fans of the series know, Milo always calls psychologist Alex Delaware, his best friend and a long-term consultant on “those cases.” The ones that are different, and these cases fit that expectation.
If you are new to the series, the character development may seem spare, but as installment 41 in the series, those who have been following the series for years deeply know these characters and their background. Reading a new installment of the series is returning to characters that are very well known while they must solve complex, unpredictable cases.
The pace is fast, the page count low, the case intelligent, and the characters known so Jigsaw was a pleasant diversion. Thanks to Ballantine Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via . My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0....
September 28, 2025
Another satisfying installment in the Dr. Alex Delaware/Milo Sturgis series. If you’ve been a long time fan, this is another story to puzzle about and then let Alex and Milo figure it out.
Two cases: a strangulation that seemed like a slam dunk until the suspect presented an ironclad alibi; and the discovery of a frozen body in a hoarder’s garage — wherein the victim turns out to be a retired female homicide detective.
Both seem totally unrelated and Milo is initially frustrated and calls in the doc. The clues are all over the place until, reminding us why Dr. Delaware is brilliant, and a single observation starts to tie the two cases together. “Jigsaw” can work as a standalone or intro to the entire series — for the most part they can be read out of order (dependent on which decade they were written).
Kellerman (and now his son, Jesse) are automatic reads for me. Has it really been 41 years? The stories are never stale (I do believe they started in pre-cellphone days) and Kellerman has adapted modern day technology into his crime-solving. Alex and Milo are reliable and competent and it’s through hard police work that the crimes they investigate get solved. How they bounce theories off one another is the brilliant core of these thrillers.
But Alex’s Cadillac Seville is now ancient — the last model year was 2004… I noticed it wasn’t used as much this time. Really, Doc, you deserve something new and snazzy. 4.5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): ALWAYS: Milo has startlingly bright green eyes, and Bettina Bel Geddes is also green-eyed.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Kellerman knows his Southern California landscape well.
Thank you to Ballantine/Random House and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
Two cases: a strangulation that seemed like a slam dunk until the suspect presented an ironclad alibi; and the discovery of a frozen body in a hoarder’s garage — wherein the victim turns out to be a retired female homicide detective.
Both seem totally unrelated and Milo is initially frustrated and calls in the doc. The clues are all over the place until, reminding us why Dr. Delaware is brilliant, and a single observation starts to tie the two cases together. “Jigsaw” can work as a standalone or intro to the entire series — for the most part they can be read out of order (dependent on which decade they were written).
Kellerman (and now his son, Jesse) are automatic reads for me. Has it really been 41 years? The stories are never stale (I do believe they started in pre-cellphone days) and Kellerman has adapted modern day technology into his crime-solving. Alex and Milo are reliable and competent and it’s through hard police work that the crimes they investigate get solved. How they bounce theories off one another is the brilliant core of these thrillers.
But Alex’s Cadillac Seville is now ancient — the last model year was 2004… I noticed it wasn’t used as much this time. Really, Doc, you deserve something new and snazzy. 4.5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): ALWAYS: Milo has startlingly bright green eyes, and Bettina Bel Geddes is also green-eyed.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO Kellerman knows his Southern California landscape well.
Thank you to Ballantine/Random House and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Can you think of a mystery series that is as long running and reliably entertaining as the Alex Delaware series, by Jonathan Kellerman? This is his 41st, and it’s going strong. My thanks go to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the review copy. This book will be available to the public February 3, 2026.
After so many installments, the regular characters in this series feel like old friends. When homicide detective Milo Sturgis careens into the kitchen of his longtime bestie, Dr. Alex Delaware and raids the fridge like a huge, gay version of Dagwood Bumstead, I can’t help smiling. Milo, Alex, it’s good seeing you again! Most episodes begin this way. Unlike many well-established series, however, we don’t take a great deal of time for character development, because there are three murders here and they cannot wait!
The first appears to be obvious; a young woman is found murdered in her home, and the cigarette butts nearby bear the DNA of her boyfriend. But it’s not as it seems. Next, an elderly woman—a former cop—is missing, and a welfare check finds her dead, dismembered, in her freezer. Yikes! The chief suspect, her developmentally disabled daughter, is later also found dead. And the woman in the freezer is a colleague, known to Milo.
The interesting part about this one is that the victim, the former cop, is a hoarder. Who knew? Nothing about her suggested that her home would be jammed full of trash, but here we are. Piles of newspaper, food wrappers, mouse droppings, paper sacks full of money, magazines…more bags full of money…
Huh?
Like all of the books in this series, this is a quick read. Partly that’s because it’s fast paced and interesting, and partly it’s because it’s chock full of snappy dialogue. Whereas I miss the humor that is frequently injected into these stories, I appreciate the trend away from the twisted sexual situations that appeared for a few years.
All told, this is an excellent entry into a series that has never failed to engage me, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to you.
After so many installments, the regular characters in this series feel like old friends. When homicide detective Milo Sturgis careens into the kitchen of his longtime bestie, Dr. Alex Delaware and raids the fridge like a huge, gay version of Dagwood Bumstead, I can’t help smiling. Milo, Alex, it’s good seeing you again! Most episodes begin this way. Unlike many well-established series, however, we don’t take a great deal of time for character development, because there are three murders here and they cannot wait!
The first appears to be obvious; a young woman is found murdered in her home, and the cigarette butts nearby bear the DNA of her boyfriend. But it’s not as it seems. Next, an elderly woman—a former cop—is missing, and a welfare check finds her dead, dismembered, in her freezer. Yikes! The chief suspect, her developmentally disabled daughter, is later also found dead. And the woman in the freezer is a colleague, known to Milo.
The interesting part about this one is that the victim, the former cop, is a hoarder. Who knew? Nothing about her suggested that her home would be jammed full of trash, but here we are. Piles of newspaper, food wrappers, mouse droppings, paper sacks full of money, magazines…more bags full of money…
Huh?
Like all of the books in this series, this is a quick read. Partly that’s because it’s fast paced and interesting, and partly it’s because it’s chock full of snappy dialogue. Whereas I miss the humor that is frequently injected into these stories, I appreciate the trend away from the twisted sexual situations that appeared for a few years.
All told, this is an excellent entry into a series that has never failed to engage me, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to you.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Well... here we are at book 41 and, if you have yet to start the series, there's an awful lot to play catchup with. Me, I've been with this author since there was only 13 to catch up and I have to say it wasn't a chore at all...!
So we start with Det. Milo Sturgis in a bit of a pickle as the evidence he followed at a pretty slam dunk murder scene led him down the wrong path and there are shenanigans and repercussions aplenty... He is so flummoxed that he turns to his great friend psychologist Alex Delaware to help dig him out of the hole.
Meanwhile the two of them are called to a very different scene. That of an old woman who has been brutally murdered, cut up, and hidden in a chest freezer. The old woman turns out to be very well known to Milo but the search of her house is tricky as she has become somewhat of a hoarder since retiring. What they do find though, is a bunch of cash... And then when they try to find next of kin they realise that her daughter is missing and, although an adult in age, she is definitely classed as vulnerable.
Whilst admittedly not the strongest book in the series, it nevertheless contained everything I need from a series book. Familiar characters all acting as they should - Milo and Alex obviously but also Robin, Blanche and all Milo's colleagues all play their parts well. And the episode characters were all as well drawn as they needed to be - obviously obfuscation held certain things back initially.
The cases themselves were interesting and compelling and held my attention nicely all the way through, spitting me out at the end both satisfied and sad to be having to say goodbye to the characters I had just spent a few hours catching up with.
All in all, although as already mentioned, not the strongest story but still a good solid read. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So we start with Det. Milo Sturgis in a bit of a pickle as the evidence he followed at a pretty slam dunk murder scene led him down the wrong path and there are shenanigans and repercussions aplenty... He is so flummoxed that he turns to his great friend psychologist Alex Delaware to help dig him out of the hole.
Meanwhile the two of them are called to a very different scene. That of an old woman who has been brutally murdered, cut up, and hidden in a chest freezer. The old woman turns out to be very well known to Milo but the search of her house is tricky as she has become somewhat of a hoarder since retiring. What they do find though, is a bunch of cash... And then when they try to find next of kin they realise that her daughter is missing and, although an adult in age, she is definitely classed as vulnerable.
Whilst admittedly not the strongest book in the series, it nevertheless contained everything I need from a series book. Familiar characters all acting as they should - Milo and Alex obviously but also Robin, Blanche and all Milo's colleagues all play their parts well. And the episode characters were all as well drawn as they needed to be - obviously obfuscation held certain things back initially.
The cases themselves were interesting and compelling and held my attention nicely all the way through, spitting me out at the end both satisfied and sad to be having to say goodbye to the characters I had just spent a few hours catching up with.
All in all, although as already mentioned, not the strongest story but still a good solid read. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jigsaw by Jonathan Kellerman is an Alex Delaware novel. Alex is a child psychologist, much of his work is for the courts in child custody/divorce proceedings. His office is in his home so he has a certain amount of freedom. Robin lives there with him. She is also flexible as she refurbishes guitars and such. They lead a happy life, along with their dog. Alex’ best friend is Milo Sturgis, a homicide detective who calls on Alex regularly when there is a complicated case. Alex is a consultant with no actual police power but with amazing observational skills and terrific at making connections. He is one of my favorite characters. His mind always goes to strange and different places. He is not always right, but he is often. Robin worries. Alex doesn’t share everything with her to avoid that as much as possible. This case is two cases, really, maybe three, two of which didn’t appear to have any connection but as Alex’ mind wanders he finds one.
This was in intriguing mystery. What was supposed to be a slam dunk turned out to be not. One of the victims was someone Milo knew; she had been a homicide detective when he was much younger. Now she was dead, arms sawed off after death, and her body stored in a freezer, her arms posed. The other appeared to be an innocent youngish woman who had been strangled and then had her throat slit. There was DNA on cigarette butts in a bowl near her body. That turned out to be the false lead. A setup? As always, following the investigation was intriguing, full of twists and wrong turns, wrong assumptions. They hung in and eventually got a slim lead, which they followed, and in the end, solved all three of the murders. This was a lovely read.
I was invited to read Jigsaw by Ballantine. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Ballantine #JonathanKellerman #Jigsaw
This was in intriguing mystery. What was supposed to be a slam dunk turned out to be not. One of the victims was someone Milo knew; she had been a homicide detective when he was much younger. Now she was dead, arms sawed off after death, and her body stored in a freezer, her arms posed. The other appeared to be an innocent youngish woman who had been strangled and then had her throat slit. There was DNA on cigarette butts in a bowl near her body. That turned out to be the false lead. A setup? As always, following the investigation was intriguing, full of twists and wrong turns, wrong assumptions. They hung in and eventually got a slim lead, which they followed, and in the end, solved all three of the murders. This was a lovely read.
I was invited to read Jigsaw by Ballantine. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Ballantine #JonathanKellerman #Jigsaw
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Psychologist Alex Delaware and Detective Milo Sturgis have been a formidable crime-solving team for years. In this installment of the Alex Delaware series, Alex is still driving his Seville (on its third engine), and Milo is still wearing his trademark desert boots.
This time they are stymied by a pair of LA strangulations that appear to have no relation to each other. The first, Sophie Barlow, a young 30-something woman, the second elderly Martha Matthias, a retired police detective.
Through Milo’s methodical police work and Alex’s psychological insights, they comb through numerous clues and interviews to land on what they believe to be the key to the whole puzzle—Michael Heck, Sophie’s ex-boyfriend and Martha’s former suspect. But to their chagrin, Alex and Milo realize that what seems obvious is anything but. True to form, they work with their crackerjack police team to cut through the detritus to discover the pieces of evidence they need to solve a case that has gone in a direction nobody saw coming.
The Delaware books always provide a complex mystery solved by two very different but devoted buddies with complementary skills. I’ve never read any of the books in the series I didn’t enjoy, and this is no exception. The red herrings, the misdirection, indeed the jigsaw, will keep the most laconic reader engaged. It’s another winner for Jonathan Kellerman, Alex Delaware, and Milo Sturgis.
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for a complimentary digital review copy.
This time they are stymied by a pair of LA strangulations that appear to have no relation to each other. The first, Sophie Barlow, a young 30-something woman, the second elderly Martha Matthias, a retired police detective.
Through Milo’s methodical police work and Alex’s psychological insights, they comb through numerous clues and interviews to land on what they believe to be the key to the whole puzzle—Michael Heck, Sophie’s ex-boyfriend and Martha’s former suspect. But to their chagrin, Alex and Milo realize that what seems obvious is anything but. True to form, they work with their crackerjack police team to cut through the detritus to discover the pieces of evidence they need to solve a case that has gone in a direction nobody saw coming.
The Delaware books always provide a complex mystery solved by two very different but devoted buddies with complementary skills. I’ve never read any of the books in the series I didn’t enjoy, and this is no exception. The red herrings, the misdirection, indeed the jigsaw, will keep the most laconic reader engaged. It’s another winner for Jonathan Kellerman, Alex Delaware, and Milo Sturgis.
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for a complimentary digital review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced digital copy of this book.
LA can be a dangerous place, full of danger and crazy people. And NO ONE knows this better than psychologist Alex Delaware and LAPD Homicide detective Milo Sturgis. They are friends, of a sort, but mostly work together when Milo gets one of "those" cases. The cases where he needs the insight from a psychologist to figure out not only whodunit, but, maybe WHY.
This story is about two cases, two different women killed in VERY different parts of the city, and seemingly with no connection. But, is there a connection? Digging deep, one is found, and it turns out to be more surprising than any other case I have read.
The first victim, strangled in her home, has some cigar butts on the table with the DNA of her killer, right? Uh, no. He is NOT the killer, and in fact hasn't seen the woman, a prior romantic partner, for some time, so how did those butts get in her otherwise spotless house? Is someone trying to frame him with this murder? But WHO? And WHY?
The second victim is a retired woman who, when a neighbor requests a wellness check, is found dead and all wrapped up in her freezer. Oh, yeah, her arms have been cut off and laid across the body. THIS sounds like it is REALLY up Alex's alley, but WHY cut off her arms? And who is the weird (as described by neighbors) woman who sometimes visits, but hasn't been seen in a while?
The two cases take a lot of time and effort and both the men are exhausted by the time they are settled, but they DO both get solved, and in a completely shocking way!!
LA can be a dangerous place, full of danger and crazy people. And NO ONE knows this better than psychologist Alex Delaware and LAPD Homicide detective Milo Sturgis. They are friends, of a sort, but mostly work together when Milo gets one of "those" cases. The cases where he needs the insight from a psychologist to figure out not only whodunit, but, maybe WHY.
This story is about two cases, two different women killed in VERY different parts of the city, and seemingly with no connection. But, is there a connection? Digging deep, one is found, and it turns out to be more surprising than any other case I have read.
The first victim, strangled in her home, has some cigar butts on the table with the DNA of her killer, right? Uh, no. He is NOT the killer, and in fact hasn't seen the woman, a prior romantic partner, for some time, so how did those butts get in her otherwise spotless house? Is someone trying to frame him with this murder? But WHO? And WHY?
The second victim is a retired woman who, when a neighbor requests a wellness check, is found dead and all wrapped up in her freezer. Oh, yeah, her arms have been cut off and laid across the body. THIS sounds like it is REALLY up Alex's alley, but WHY cut off her arms? And who is the weird (as described by neighbors) woman who sometimes visits, but hasn't been seen in a while?
The two cases take a lot of time and effort and both the men are exhausted by the time they are settled, but they DO both get solved, and in a completely shocking way!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I read a ton of the early books in this series when I was younger, but have only read a handful of the last twenty or so, and I think it's probably just not the series for me anymore. Alex Delaware is just too blandly perfect. I need a detective with more angst, or weird obsessions, or anger issues, or some kind of addiction. Anyway, there are plenty of those out there for those us who want crimes to be solved by weirdos, so I just need to stop requesting ARCs for this series. If you want a psychologically interesting protagonist, look elsewhere, but if you want Mr. Perfect you will love Alex Delaware.
As to the story, it was fine. Not particularly tense or suspenseful, but a nicely laid out procedural investigation where Alex and Milo ran down leads and clues, talked to witnesses and suspects, and made connections between cases that seemed utterly different at first. I enjoyed it enough to keep reading and wanted to know who the killer was, but this will not stick with me.
For anyone new to this series I wouldn't recommend starting here--go back to the early stuff! If you already love Kellerman's books and like Alex Delaware as he is, you will probably like this installment, and that is the audience I would recommend this book to. If, like me, you come to this book a little on the fence about this series, skip it!
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the ARC
As to the story, it was fine. Not particularly tense or suspenseful, but a nicely laid out procedural investigation where Alex and Milo ran down leads and clues, talked to witnesses and suspects, and made connections between cases that seemed utterly different at first. I enjoyed it enough to keep reading and wanted to know who the killer was, but this will not stick with me.
For anyone new to this series I wouldn't recommend starting here--go back to the early stuff! If you already love Kellerman's books and like Alex Delaware as he is, you will probably like this installment, and that is the audience I would recommend this book to. If, like me, you come to this book a little on the fence about this series, skip it!
Thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for the ARC
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