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Jess Bridges Mystery #2
White Horse
3000 years ago Iron Age people carved a White Horse on the Downs near Uffington Castle and now someone has dumped a body there. Laid out like a ceremonial killing, Detective Inspector Leo George isn't convinced that the murder is what it appears.
He suspects the young female victim may have been a member of the Children of the White Horse, a secretive valley commune, but none of the cult members are talking. That is until he discovers his friend, Jess Bridges, is undercover in the commune, attempting to persuade a wayward young woman to leave the cult.
Leo is confronted by the fact that Jess is heading right into the heart of a mystery that has less to do with ancient gods than it does modern vices, and there is nothing old about spilling blood…
He suspects the young female victim may have been a member of the Children of the White Horse, a secretive valley commune, but none of the cult members are talking. That is until he discovers his friend, Jess Bridges, is undercover in the commune, attempting to persuade a wayward young woman to leave the cult.
Leo is confronted by the fact that Jess is heading right into the heart of a mystery that has less to do with ancient gods than it does modern vices, and there is nothing old about spilling blood…
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2020
18 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Joss Stirling
39 books2,521 followersJoss Stirling is a British novelist. Her first novel under this name was the internationally successful, Finding Sky, which is followed by five others in the same series entering into the savant world of young people with special powers. Central to the story are the Benedict Brothers, seven talented guys from Colorado.
In a second series, Struck, Joss begins a new world of detective romance. The first three parts are: Struck (#1) and Stung (#2), and Shaken (#3) and Scorched (#4). Joss introduces readers to four new heroes - Kieran Storm, Nathan Hunter, Joe Masters and Damien Castle, who all attention the Young Detective Agency. The first part, Struck, won the Romantic Novel of the Year 2015 in the UK.
Her new series, PERIL, a paranormal love story set in the near future, is out 13 July 2017.
Joss lives in Oxford, England. She is married with three children.
Stirling also publishes under two pen names: Julia Golding and Eve Edwards.
In a second series, Struck, Joss begins a new world of detective romance. The first three parts are: Struck (#1) and Stung (#2), and Shaken (#3) and Scorched (#4). Joss introduces readers to four new heroes - Kieran Storm, Nathan Hunter, Joe Masters and Damien Castle, who all attention the Young Detective Agency. The first part, Struck, won the Romantic Novel of the Year 2015 in the UK.
Her new series, PERIL, a paranormal love story set in the near future, is out 13 July 2017.
Joss lives in Oxford, England. She is married with three children.
Stirling also publishes under two pen names: Julia Golding and Eve Edwards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
October 30, 2020
White Horse is the second instalment in the Oxford-based Private Investigator (PI) Jess Bridges Mystery series and is set a few months after the events in Black River. Thirty-one-year-old PI and flawed protagonist Jess specialises in locating missing people. When she attends a book fair in Frankfurt with an author friend as part moral supporter, part drinking partner, she wasn't expecting to be approached by another writer who requests her help in locating a missing young woman last seen at what appears to be a commune or possible cult in Uffington. She is offered enough money to make it a no-brainer and therefore accepts. Jess returns home and decides to risk going undercover as Sister Poppy within the cult group to try to locate the girl. Coincidentally, DI Leo George has been called to the scene of the 3000-year old ancient site of the White Horse in the Downs surrounding Uffington where the dead body of a young woman has been splayed over the landmark and a ceremonial robe belonging to Children of the White Horse cult lies in the undergrowth nearby. The whole incident smells very much like a ritual killing. As Leo and Jess’s cases overlap, can they work together to find the truth?
This is an enthralling, addictive and much darker offering than the first instalment, as there is less humour but it still has some lighthearted banter about it and Jess’s inner monologue is often quite amusing. I have always found cults fascinating whether it be in fiction or nonfiction and it gave the whole book a sinister and unpredictable feel to it, which I loved. We get to learn more about Jess and Leo, in particular, and Jess really tries her utmost to help her client's, if the price is right, of course. The characters are quirky with an equally madcap and anarchic sense of humour which punctuates the story with a lightness to offset the dark and gritty cult storyline. There are several good twists throughout, great use of misdirection and red herrings, the action rarely stands still and the pace just keeps moving and swiftly. As disturbing secrets are unravelled by our dream team the book concludes unexpectedly and satisfyingly. I am already looking forward to the third outing and hope it'll be just as gripping, captivating and dramatic as the first two. Highly recommended. Many thanks to One More Chapter for an ARC.
This is an enthralling, addictive and much darker offering than the first instalment, as there is less humour but it still has some lighthearted banter about it and Jess’s inner monologue is often quite amusing. I have always found cults fascinating whether it be in fiction or nonfiction and it gave the whole book a sinister and unpredictable feel to it, which I loved. We get to learn more about Jess and Leo, in particular, and Jess really tries her utmost to help her client's, if the price is right, of course. The characters are quirky with an equally madcap and anarchic sense of humour which punctuates the story with a lightness to offset the dark and gritty cult storyline. There are several good twists throughout, great use of misdirection and red herrings, the action rarely stands still and the pace just keeps moving and swiftly. As disturbing secrets are unravelled by our dream team the book concludes unexpectedly and satisfyingly. I am already looking forward to the third outing and hope it'll be just as gripping, captivating and dramatic as the first two. Highly recommended. Many thanks to One More Chapter for an ARC.
September 21, 2020
Very quickly made my mind up I was going to like this one, likeable characters, good plot and lots of action. I instantly took to the character Jess Bridges, she is quirky, funny and lots of fun. Together with the other two main characters Michael and Detective Inspector Leo George they make an excellent base for what I am sure will be a popular series. I was only a short way into the novel and had already purchased another couple of books by the same author which shows how much I enjoyed the writing.
A dead body is found laid out like a ceremonial killing on the famous White Horse on the Downs near Uffington Castle. Detective Inspector Leo George suspects the young female victim may have been a member of the Children of the White Horse, a secretive valley commune, but none of the cult members are talking. Jess Bridges is working independently trying to locate a missing young woman who she suspects may have joined the cult commune. In an effort to hunt her down Jess works her way into the cult undercover to try and persuade her to leave.
This is a good read that promises to be an enjoyable series.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Harper Collins, One More Chapter for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
A dead body is found laid out like a ceremonial killing on the famous White Horse on the Downs near Uffington Castle. Detective Inspector Leo George suspects the young female victim may have been a member of the Children of the White Horse, a secretive valley commune, but none of the cult members are talking. Jess Bridges is working independently trying to locate a missing young woman who she suspects may have joined the cult commune. In an effort to hunt her down Jess works her way into the cult undercover to try and persuade her to leave.
This is a good read that promises to be an enjoyable series.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Harper Collins, One More Chapter for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2020
When a young blonde woman, clad in nothing but a sort of kaftan, is found murdered and posed along the back of the ‘White Horse’ (a massive chalk horse that’s carved out on a hillside in Thames Valley, dating back to the iron age), police and the local people are quick to point the finger at a local neo-pagan cult ‘the children of the white horse’. But the cult is adamant that they don’t know the victim and also locally no-one has seen her before.
As coincidence happens, Jess Bridges has just gone undercover in this cult as sister Poppy in order to talk sense into the daughter of a writer friend of Michael, her ex. But she can’t find the girl and it looks as if she left them around the time of the murder. So the paths of Jess and DI Leo George are to cross again.
Jess has a few issues; she has ADHD and very bad impulse control. She may be a scatterbrain, but she’s also one of those people that you can’t help but like them. She’s sympathetic, loyal, spontaneous, and doesn’t have a bad bone in her body. Once again this combination of qualities puts her in danger and in this story she discovers that she’s more a Johnny English than a James Bond. And she decides that she needs to find an online you-tube course on lock-picking.
This story is rooted in reality, as many places and the geoglyph self, do exist in the real world. The psychological information that Michael finds on cults and cult leaders is also well researched.
This was again a fun read without any pretensions. It’s the second book in the series, but you can read the story on its own without a problem. It’s quickly becoming one of my favourite series. There are a couple of good one-liners and quotes that will raise a smile.
The mysteries themselves aren’t too difficult to solve, I guessed most of the answers. A cult, a forbidden Ice-house, massive electric bills in an off-grid community are some of the clues for one of them. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the story.
I thank NetGalley and One More Chapter for the free ARC they provided and this is my honest, unbiased review of it.
As coincidence happens, Jess Bridges has just gone undercover in this cult as sister Poppy in order to talk sense into the daughter of a writer friend of Michael, her ex. But she can’t find the girl and it looks as if she left them around the time of the murder. So the paths of Jess and DI Leo George are to cross again.
Jess has a few issues; she has ADHD and very bad impulse control. She may be a scatterbrain, but she’s also one of those people that you can’t help but like them. She’s sympathetic, loyal, spontaneous, and doesn’t have a bad bone in her body. Once again this combination of qualities puts her in danger and in this story she discovers that she’s more a Johnny English than a James Bond. And she decides that she needs to find an online you-tube course on lock-picking.
This story is rooted in reality, as many places and the geoglyph self, do exist in the real world. The psychological information that Michael finds on cults and cult leaders is also well researched.
This was again a fun read without any pretensions. It’s the second book in the series, but you can read the story on its own without a problem. It’s quickly becoming one of my favourite series. There are a couple of good one-liners and quotes that will raise a smile.
The mysteries themselves aren’t too difficult to solve, I guessed most of the answers. A cult, a forbidden Ice-house, massive electric bills in an off-grid community are some of the clues for one of them. Nonetheless, I enjoyed the story.
I thank NetGalley and One More Chapter for the free ARC they provided and this is my honest, unbiased review of it.
May 28, 2021
Disclaimer : I received e-copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to One More Chapter.
White Horse was amazing sequel of Black River that revolved around another missing case Jess was looking into that again got tangled with Leo’s murder case.
The story was about impulsive young girl and its worst consequences, cult, power greed, mental health, manipulation, human nature, and friendship.
Writing was captivating, engaging, entertaining and fast paced. I had hard time putting down this book. I finished this in just two sitting.
Jess was amazing. Her knack to get in trouble was still as great as previous book. Only she would join a cult with so much enthusiasm knowing they engaged in orgy.
I could see the story becoming dark and serious if Jess didn’t give it light humorous touch.
It’s clear there was going to be something between him and Jess and how they both felt different in each other’s company but alas, that romantic department still hasn’t progressed much. Maybe in next book!
There were so many big and small thought-provoking things hidden under this light-hearted mystery.
If you love murder mysteries with layers, interesting characters, and right balance between dark and humorous, plot and characters, I highly recommend this book. But note that it should be read in order.
Read full review on my book blog by following link -https://booksteacupreviews.com/2021/0...
White Horse was amazing sequel of Black River that revolved around another missing case Jess was looking into that again got tangled with Leo’s murder case.
The story was about impulsive young girl and its worst consequences, cult, power greed, mental health, manipulation, human nature, and friendship.
Writing was captivating, engaging, entertaining and fast paced. I had hard time putting down this book. I finished this in just two sitting.
Jess was amazing. Her knack to get in trouble was still as great as previous book. Only she would join a cult with so much enthusiasm knowing they engaged in orgy.
I could see the story becoming dark and serious if Jess didn’t give it light humorous touch.
It’s clear there was going to be something between him and Jess and how they both felt different in each other’s company but alas, that romantic department still hasn’t progressed much. Maybe in next book!
There were so many big and small thought-provoking things hidden under this light-hearted mystery.
If you love murder mysteries with layers, interesting characters, and right balance between dark and humorous, plot and characters, I highly recommend this book. But note that it should be read in order.
Read full review on my book blog by following link -https://booksteacupreviews.com/2021/0...
January 7, 2021
Raised in the South of England, I loved seeing the mysterious white horses and other designs in the countryside. Now here’s a novel featuring the chalk carvings and the great duo of Investigator Jess Bridges and detective Leo George in the second installment of a series I hope will go into double digits as I love their pairing and interactions. The story itself is fascinating, full of action, twists and semi surprises. It gets a five star rating as I want to read more and get to know them better.
November 15, 2020
4.5 stars
After reading Black River, this book set up my love for the Jess Bridges series.
Leo and Jess have to discover who could kill a young woman and drop her body in a very historical setting. I will be honest, this book reminded me so much of a Midsummer Murders episode about secret society where once you are in, it’s difficult to get out and the interaction with the outside world is almost inexistent. Going undercover takes a lot of courage and strength, particularities that our heroine posses in full, and her quirky mind and humor made it once again an addictive read.
Fast-paced, suspenseful and unstoppable read, this is another favourite story by a now must read author.
After reading Black River, this book set up my love for the Jess Bridges series.
Leo and Jess have to discover who could kill a young woman and drop her body in a very historical setting. I will be honest, this book reminded me so much of a Midsummer Murders episode about secret society where once you are in, it’s difficult to get out and the interaction with the outside world is almost inexistent. Going undercover takes a lot of courage and strength, particularities that our heroine posses in full, and her quirky mind and humor made it once again an addictive read.
Fast-paced, suspenseful and unstoppable read, this is another favourite story by a now must read author.
March 10, 2021
I enjoyed this book considering I don't really like books about cults, they have been done and done again in my opinion, but this is a quick action book so very little heavy information to avoid.
I do like the main characters in this series and am pleased that the author hasn't fallen down the 'need for sex' rabbit hole, yet.
I didn't see the end coming, so that's always a surprise especially when you read a fair amount of this kind of book.
All in all a great book, looking forward to reading the next one.
I do like the main characters in this series and am pleased that the author hasn't fallen down the 'need for sex' rabbit hole, yet.
I didn't see the end coming, so that's always a surprise especially when you read a fair amount of this kind of book.
All in all a great book, looking forward to reading the next one.
October 11, 2020
This is the second book in the Jess Bridges series. I thoroughly enjoyed the first one and liked this one as well. I thought the first one was a bit more funny and liked the plot line better in Black River book too. I did enjoy the quirky characters just as much in this one and look forward to reading more in this series.
Thanks to netgalley and One More Chapter for the arc
Thanks to netgalley and One More Chapter for the arc
November 7, 2020
White Horse is the second in the series featuring detective Leo George and private investigator Jess Bridges. Having previously met during the wild swimming murder investigation in Oxford, it is the death of a young woman, found on the chalk horse figure near the village of Kingston Beauchamp that reunites this pair. Whilst Leo is beginning his investigation alongside colleagues Harry Boston and Suyin Wong, two familiar figures, Jess is at the Frankfurt book fair with ex boyfriend Michael Harrison. It is here that her next mission to locate a missing person falls into her lap thanks to author Dr Tanglewood White. Dr White has had no contact with her daughter Lisette for the last two years and believes her last known whereabouts is a cult commune in Kingston Manor, close to the Uffington White Horse. Without much consideration, Jess agrees to go undercover and gain entry into the commune in the hope she can reunite mother and daughter. Is there a connection between the death of the as yet unidentified young woman and the missing Lisette? This promises to be another entertaining if strange murder mystery entangling both Leo and Jess as their lives collide once again. You can expect to be as invested in their characters and interactions with one another as much as you are in the solving of this murder. Truly this is a partnership like you’ve never encountered before.
Setting is crucial to the storyline with the vale of the White Horse, the Iron Age fort of Uffington Castle and the actual prehistoric chalk figure of the white horse an ideal location for this murder mystery which focuses on pagan beliefs, rituals and ceremonies. As ignorant as I am I had no idea how many of these chalk figures are present in our English countryside so I was both educated and entertained by the author as I joined Leo and Jess in their latest adventure, most of which centres around a commune where the cult Children of the White Horse reside. With Father Oak aka Terry O’Brien at the helm, the author is able to explore myths surrounding these kinds of alternative lifestyles and how easy it is for power to fall into the wrong hands, brainwashing well meaning individuals into a life it is then virtually impossible to escape. Obviously this is a lighthearted piece of crime fiction but I did find the actual premise enlightening, educating me in a subject I know little about. I love it when a book prompts you to investigate subject matter further so thank you Joss!
Jess, going undercover to infiltrate this cult in order to find the missing Lisette initially believes all the rumours surrounding this lifestyle, relishing the opportunity to indulge her hedonistic nature but hilariously doesn’t anticipate how bizarre this life could be. Brothers Pine, Maple and Gorse and Sister Ivy together with Father Oak are either harmless, eccentric individuals bonded by common beliefs or else there is something more sinister going on behind the doors of this Manor House. What connection the dead woman may have with the area is up to Leo and his team to discover as their investigation increasingly focuses on the residents of both the village and the commune. It’s a well paced, intriguing storyline that I found difficult to put down, thanks mainly to the loveable, chaotic, soft hearted man eating Jess.
I expressed the desire to learn more about Leo’s character as this series progresses in my review of Black River and I did feel Leo started to emerge slightly from his shell. He’s still incredibly buttoned up and proper but I could see with this investigation a friendship, respect and mutual attraction gradually forming between these two contrasting characters, building on their previous encounter. I initially voiced concerns that this unlikely partnership wasn’t working well for me but I have to retract that statement now as I’ve come to the conclusion Leo and Jess’s differences compliment each other perfectly. Leo could definitely benefit from adopting Jess’s more free spirited and carefree ways whilst Jess at times is in need of more self control, reigning in her impulsive streak. By her own admission she often finds herself a square peg in a round hole and this storyline allows her to be her true unpredictable self, charging headfirst into a situation with little thought for the consequences. I’m beginning to think that I wouldn’t want her any other way and it’s her outlandish behaviour and devil may care attitude that makes this series so appealing. As in Black River, the narrative sparkles with humour alongside a sense of foreboding and danger so that you can’t take anything too seriously, enjoying Jess’s antics knowing Leo and Michael will always come to the rescue.
The author leaves the reader with a real cliffhanger of an ending, tempting you to pick up the third instalment in this quirky detective series. I am so looking forward to Red House, wondering whether this slow burning potential romance between Leo and Jess will ever ignite or if it’s one of those relationships that will only ever come tantalisingly close to teetering over the edge of professional into the more personal. I can’t help feeling something or someone, possibly Michael Harrison, will thwart any further development but I guess I’ll have to wait and see! My thanks as always to the publisher One More Chapter and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
Setting is crucial to the storyline with the vale of the White Horse, the Iron Age fort of Uffington Castle and the actual prehistoric chalk figure of the white horse an ideal location for this murder mystery which focuses on pagan beliefs, rituals and ceremonies. As ignorant as I am I had no idea how many of these chalk figures are present in our English countryside so I was both educated and entertained by the author as I joined Leo and Jess in their latest adventure, most of which centres around a commune where the cult Children of the White Horse reside. With Father Oak aka Terry O’Brien at the helm, the author is able to explore myths surrounding these kinds of alternative lifestyles and how easy it is for power to fall into the wrong hands, brainwashing well meaning individuals into a life it is then virtually impossible to escape. Obviously this is a lighthearted piece of crime fiction but I did find the actual premise enlightening, educating me in a subject I know little about. I love it when a book prompts you to investigate subject matter further so thank you Joss!
Jess, going undercover to infiltrate this cult in order to find the missing Lisette initially believes all the rumours surrounding this lifestyle, relishing the opportunity to indulge her hedonistic nature but hilariously doesn’t anticipate how bizarre this life could be. Brothers Pine, Maple and Gorse and Sister Ivy together with Father Oak are either harmless, eccentric individuals bonded by common beliefs or else there is something more sinister going on behind the doors of this Manor House. What connection the dead woman may have with the area is up to Leo and his team to discover as their investigation increasingly focuses on the residents of both the village and the commune. It’s a well paced, intriguing storyline that I found difficult to put down, thanks mainly to the loveable, chaotic, soft hearted man eating Jess.
I expressed the desire to learn more about Leo’s character as this series progresses in my review of Black River and I did feel Leo started to emerge slightly from his shell. He’s still incredibly buttoned up and proper but I could see with this investigation a friendship, respect and mutual attraction gradually forming between these two contrasting characters, building on their previous encounter. I initially voiced concerns that this unlikely partnership wasn’t working well for me but I have to retract that statement now as I’ve come to the conclusion Leo and Jess’s differences compliment each other perfectly. Leo could definitely benefit from adopting Jess’s more free spirited and carefree ways whilst Jess at times is in need of more self control, reigning in her impulsive streak. By her own admission she often finds herself a square peg in a round hole and this storyline allows her to be her true unpredictable self, charging headfirst into a situation with little thought for the consequences. I’m beginning to think that I wouldn’t want her any other way and it’s her outlandish behaviour and devil may care attitude that makes this series so appealing. As in Black River, the narrative sparkles with humour alongside a sense of foreboding and danger so that you can’t take anything too seriously, enjoying Jess’s antics knowing Leo and Michael will always come to the rescue.
The author leaves the reader with a real cliffhanger of an ending, tempting you to pick up the third instalment in this quirky detective series. I am so looking forward to Red House, wondering whether this slow burning potential romance between Leo and Jess will ever ignite or if it’s one of those relationships that will only ever come tantalisingly close to teetering over the edge of professional into the more personal. I can’t help feeling something or someone, possibly Michael Harrison, will thwart any further development but I guess I’ll have to wait and see! My thanks as always to the publisher One More Chapter and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2020
Jess, Leo, and Michael are back in Book 2 of the Jess Bridges Mystery Series, White Horse, and they have new cases to solve, new crazy predicaments to get into, and new dangers to face.
What I Loved
White Horse picks up basically where Black River leaves off with just about a couple of months between the two stories. It can be a bit of a stretch for the imagination to believe all of these mysteries could happen in such a short amount of time. Still, I love the characters so much, and watching them in action is such a wonderful experience that I am more than willing to make my imagination stretch.
There are three mysteries again – one is Jess’s PI case, one is a murder that Leo is trying to solve, and the third is a suspicious death. This time, unlike in Black River, the three cases are intertwined, so Jess and Leo find themselves working together again. Three mysteries in one story may sound like a lot, but they are handled so expertly that I never get confused or lost in the plot. Instead, I just found that it made the pages turn faster and faster without a lull.
I also love that Jess Bridges reminds me so much of one of my favorite literary characters Stephanie Plum from the series by Janet Evanovich. Jess and Stephanie both are “strapped for cash and recklessly impulsive,” which is a large part of their charm. Both are very attractive to the opposite sex, and both are never sure where they stand in relationships. The most significant difference between the two characters is that Jess has a band of support characters that help ground her and keep her safe. In contrast, Stephanie has a madcap group of over the top support characters. Jess is a PI, and Stephanie works for a bonds bail man, but both find themselves in dangerous situations due to their job. And they are both the most enjoyable female characters that I have had the opportunity to read.
I love that this time the group took on a cult. There is such an air of mystery to cult activities that added the extra layer of mystique to an already action-filled story. Of course, Jess’s plan involved going undercover into the cult, which creates many situations that are as laugh-out-loud funny as they are full of suspense.
To Read or Not to Read
If you love light, hard-boiled mysteries, you must pick up this new series by Joss Sterling.
What I Loved
White Horse picks up basically where Black River leaves off with just about a couple of months between the two stories. It can be a bit of a stretch for the imagination to believe all of these mysteries could happen in such a short amount of time. Still, I love the characters so much, and watching them in action is such a wonderful experience that I am more than willing to make my imagination stretch.
There are three mysteries again – one is Jess’s PI case, one is a murder that Leo is trying to solve, and the third is a suspicious death. This time, unlike in Black River, the three cases are intertwined, so Jess and Leo find themselves working together again. Three mysteries in one story may sound like a lot, but they are handled so expertly that I never get confused or lost in the plot. Instead, I just found that it made the pages turn faster and faster without a lull.
I also love that Jess Bridges reminds me so much of one of my favorite literary characters Stephanie Plum from the series by Janet Evanovich. Jess and Stephanie both are “strapped for cash and recklessly impulsive,” which is a large part of their charm. Both are very attractive to the opposite sex, and both are never sure where they stand in relationships. The most significant difference between the two characters is that Jess has a band of support characters that help ground her and keep her safe. In contrast, Stephanie has a madcap group of over the top support characters. Jess is a PI, and Stephanie works for a bonds bail man, but both find themselves in dangerous situations due to their job. And they are both the most enjoyable female characters that I have had the opportunity to read.
I love that this time the group took on a cult. There is such an air of mystery to cult activities that added the extra layer of mystique to an already action-filled story. Of course, Jess’s plan involved going undercover into the cult, which creates many situations that are as laugh-out-loud funny as they are full of suspense.
To Read or Not to Read
If you love light, hard-boiled mysteries, you must pick up this new series by Joss Sterling.
November 5, 2020
Strong second outing for private investigator Jess Bridges
My thanks to HarperCollins U.K. One More Chapter for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘White Horse’ by Joss Stirling in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second in Joss Stirling’s series of mysteries featuring private investigator, Jess Bridges. I missed the first book, ‘Black River’, though have since bought it. Yet I didn’t feel lost as Joss Stirling provided background on the characters.
Some 3000 years ago the abstract shape of a horse was carved into a hill near Uffington Castle in Oxfordshire. This enigmatic chalk hill figure is a key location in this novel and is featured on the cover.
Jessica (Jess) Bridges, is a private investigator and specialises in missing persons. She has been hired by author Tanglewood White to find her wayward daughter, who has joined a commune called the Children of the White Horse, and to attempt to persuade her to leave the cult. The group is very secretive and Jess’ plan is to go in undercover.
Complicating this plan is that recently the body of a young woman was found laid out on the hill figure in a manner that suggested a ceremonial killing. Detective Inspector Leo George suspects that the victim was a member of the Children of the White Horse, though none of the cult members are talking. So when he learns that his friend, Jess, is working her case undercover there he realises that she can also serve as his eyes and ears. Yet at the same time he is concerned about her safety. It turns out that he has good cause.
I adored this mystery. While not quite a cosy, it has a playful feel, especially Jess’ inner dialogue and banter. Both Jess and Leo were appealing leads. The chapters were divided between Jess’ first person narrative and Leo’s third person perspective. There’s also a few chapters from the viewpoint of Michael, Jess’ friend, who is an Oxford professor.
As noted above I enjoyed this very much. Okay, it’s not great literature but it provided me with a few hours of entertainment and an intriguing whodunnit. Two further books are scheduled for publication in this series: ‘Red House’ in November and ‘Grey Stones’ in January, 2021. I certainly plan to buy and read both.
My thanks to HarperCollins U.K. One More Chapter for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘White Horse’ by Joss Stirling in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second in Joss Stirling’s series of mysteries featuring private investigator, Jess Bridges. I missed the first book, ‘Black River’, though have since bought it. Yet I didn’t feel lost as Joss Stirling provided background on the characters.
Some 3000 years ago the abstract shape of a horse was carved into a hill near Uffington Castle in Oxfordshire. This enigmatic chalk hill figure is a key location in this novel and is featured on the cover.
Jessica (Jess) Bridges, is a private investigator and specialises in missing persons. She has been hired by author Tanglewood White to find her wayward daughter, who has joined a commune called the Children of the White Horse, and to attempt to persuade her to leave the cult. The group is very secretive and Jess’ plan is to go in undercover.
Complicating this plan is that recently the body of a young woman was found laid out on the hill figure in a manner that suggested a ceremonial killing. Detective Inspector Leo George suspects that the victim was a member of the Children of the White Horse, though none of the cult members are talking. So when he learns that his friend, Jess, is working her case undercover there he realises that she can also serve as his eyes and ears. Yet at the same time he is concerned about her safety. It turns out that he has good cause.
I adored this mystery. While not quite a cosy, it has a playful feel, especially Jess’ inner dialogue and banter. Both Jess and Leo were appealing leads. The chapters were divided between Jess’ first person narrative and Leo’s third person perspective. There’s also a few chapters from the viewpoint of Michael, Jess’ friend, who is an Oxford professor.
As noted above I enjoyed this very much. Okay, it’s not great literature but it provided me with a few hours of entertainment and an intriguing whodunnit. Two further books are scheduled for publication in this series: ‘Red House’ in November and ‘Grey Stones’ in January, 2021. I certainly plan to buy and read both.
October 21, 2020
I read this book pretty much straight after finishing series opener - Black River - which I do recommend you also read first - series rules and all that!
So... this time we follow Jess as she is asked to find a missing young woman who might have joined a cult. Coincidentally the same cult that DI Leo George is also investigating with respect to a body found laid out on the famous chalk White Horse. The two of them have history from the first book and there is a connection... Will this hinder or help them in their endeavours or will it enable them to pull together to figure out what is going on?
I connected well to Jess in her first outing, well after a bit of too-ing and fro-ing!. She's feisty and knows her mind and is not afraid to get stuck in. She's also a bit fearless which can lead to a bit of recklessness at times too. Her interaction with George is intriguing and interesting and adds rather than distracts from the mystery being solved. The mystery itself is a bit simpler than in Jess's first outing and I did guess the majority well ahead of time but it did keep my attention nicely along the way and at no point was I so convinced of my conclusions that I didn't keep guessing.
The action and intrigue ramp up nicely throughout, with pretty much no padding or waffle and eventually culminate in a very satisfying conclusion.
All in all, a great follow up to a cracking series opener... roll on book three. My thanks go to the publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So... this time we follow Jess as she is asked to find a missing young woman who might have joined a cult. Coincidentally the same cult that DI Leo George is also investigating with respect to a body found laid out on the famous chalk White Horse. The two of them have history from the first book and there is a connection... Will this hinder or help them in their endeavours or will it enable them to pull together to figure out what is going on?
I connected well to Jess in her first outing, well after a bit of too-ing and fro-ing!. She's feisty and knows her mind and is not afraid to get stuck in. She's also a bit fearless which can lead to a bit of recklessness at times too. Her interaction with George is intriguing and interesting and adds rather than distracts from the mystery being solved. The mystery itself is a bit simpler than in Jess's first outing and I did guess the majority well ahead of time but it did keep my attention nicely along the way and at no point was I so convinced of my conclusions that I didn't keep guessing.
The action and intrigue ramp up nicely throughout, with pretty much no padding or waffle and eventually culminate in a very satisfying conclusion.
All in all, a great follow up to a cracking series opener... roll on book three. My thanks go to the publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
October 29, 2020
🔎Page-turner whodunit with an intrepid PI stumbling her way through danger😮
4.5🌟stars
I got thoroughly wrapped up in this Jess Bridges mystery which I felt was a solid improvement over Black River, the first book in the series. Investigator Jess, DI Leo George and her former lover Michael are back, this time involved in two different investigations -- a murder and a missing person -- that dovetail into each other because they both lead to the same place on the Downs. The story flowed well and the last half was really fast-paced and exciting. I must admit the identity of the killer and motive eluded me through most of the story.
Although Joss Stirling is still keeping readers in the dark about the reason for Michael's fall that crippled him and why he and Jess broke up, this book harkened less back to events that preceded this story. On some points, like references to Jess's jailed dad, a reader will just wonder unless they've read Black River. I think I've grown to like the Jess Bridges character better than in the previous book. She's still impulsive and a bit quick off the mark on sharing her physical charms, but she's proved herself conscientious about serving her clients and loyal and protective of her friends. I would gladly read more about this trio.
Thanks to publishers Harper Collins/One More Chapter and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
4.5🌟stars
I got thoroughly wrapped up in this Jess Bridges mystery which I felt was a solid improvement over Black River, the first book in the series. Investigator Jess, DI Leo George and her former lover Michael are back, this time involved in two different investigations -- a murder and a missing person -- that dovetail into each other because they both lead to the same place on the Downs. The story flowed well and the last half was really fast-paced and exciting. I must admit the identity of the killer and motive eluded me through most of the story.
Although Joss Stirling is still keeping readers in the dark about the reason for Michael's fall that crippled him and why he and Jess broke up, this book harkened less back to events that preceded this story. On some points, like references to Jess's jailed dad, a reader will just wonder unless they've read Black River. I think I've grown to like the Jess Bridges character better than in the previous book. She's still impulsive and a bit quick off the mark on sharing her physical charms, but she's proved herself conscientious about serving her clients and loyal and protective of her friends. I would gladly read more about this trio.
Thanks to publishers Harper Collins/One More Chapter and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
November 13, 2020
The infamous white horse near Uffington is the location where a dead body is discovered which has ritualistic elements to it. Who is this woman and what is she doing there? Who is responsible for the murder?
A secret commune is located in the valley below the white horse. Jess Bridges goes undercover to investigate the strange goings-on which appear to be happening within the cult and gets caught up in a bizarre and sinister world. Inspector Leo George conducts his side of the investigation and encounters dark secrets.
Gripping twists and subplots are enjoyable but the characters didn't engage me...felt no connection whatsoever. Likeable characters aren't necessary for me in a story but I need to feel something. However, there is definitely a lot to like such as the writing style, plot and pacing.
Mystery readers seeking something different with some spiritualism may find this to be their wheelhouse.
Some may find the language offensive.
My sincere thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
A secret commune is located in the valley below the white horse. Jess Bridges goes undercover to investigate the strange goings-on which appear to be happening within the cult and gets caught up in a bizarre and sinister world. Inspector Leo George conducts his side of the investigation and encounters dark secrets.
Gripping twists and subplots are enjoyable but the characters didn't engage me...felt no connection whatsoever. Likeable characters aren't necessary for me in a story but I need to feel something. However, there is definitely a lot to like such as the writing style, plot and pacing.
Mystery readers seeking something different with some spiritualism may find this to be their wheelhouse.
Some may find the language offensive.
My sincere thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in return for an honest review.
January 26, 2021
Having loved Black River, the first in this new crime series, I was keen to read the second instalment, White Horse, and it didn’t disappoint.
Impulsive and reckless private investigator Jess Bridges takes on an undercover role at a commune. She is there to make contact with her client’s missing daughter, but she’s kind of hoping the rumours about it being a sex cult are true. [Told you she was impulsive and reckless…] Meanwhile, Detective Inspector Leo George, who met Jess on his previous case, has a ritualistic murder to investigate. A young woman, dressed like the members of the commune, has been left strangled on an ancient white horse carved into a hillside. As the two investigations converge, Jess finds herself in danger and has to call on her ex-boyfriend, Michael, an Oxford psychologist and the third leading character from book one.
It’s a good mystery with great characters and more than a dollop of well-placed humour. I recommend this series and have already bought book three.
Impulsive and reckless private investigator Jess Bridges takes on an undercover role at a commune. She is there to make contact with her client’s missing daughter, but she’s kind of hoping the rumours about it being a sex cult are true. [Told you she was impulsive and reckless…] Meanwhile, Detective Inspector Leo George, who met Jess on his previous case, has a ritualistic murder to investigate. A young woman, dressed like the members of the commune, has been left strangled on an ancient white horse carved into a hillside. As the two investigations converge, Jess finds herself in danger and has to call on her ex-boyfriend, Michael, an Oxford psychologist and the third leading character from book one.
It’s a good mystery with great characters and more than a dollop of well-placed humour. I recommend this series and have already bought book three.
November 20, 2020
Now I'll admit, after reading to first installment of this new series, I was hesitant. Don't get me wrong, Black River was a good enough read but it wasn't paced enough for me so was expecting the same again.
I WAS SO WRONG!
Straight away this second installment grabbed me, span me around, plonked me down and walked away leaving me slightly dazed!
This is most definitely a more 'darker' offering than the first book and I personally felt that Jess' character was more relatable in this one. Her character really started to come through, showing a real strong female lead.
I do love reading about the whole 'cult' scene and Joss really captured the sinister side of it extremely well. I felt I was part of the whole investigation.
The misdirection and plot twists and cleverly intertwined and the pace was spot on.
I'm so glad I gave this series another go and ant wait to get started on the 3rd one now.
Huge thanks to Harper Collins UK/One More Chapter for the ARC.
I WAS SO WRONG!
Straight away this second installment grabbed me, span me around, plonked me down and walked away leaving me slightly dazed!
This is most definitely a more 'darker' offering than the first book and I personally felt that Jess' character was more relatable in this one. Her character really started to come through, showing a real strong female lead.
I do love reading about the whole 'cult' scene and Joss really captured the sinister side of it extremely well. I felt I was part of the whole investigation.
The misdirection and plot twists and cleverly intertwined and the pace was spot on.
I'm so glad I gave this series another go and ant wait to get started on the 3rd one now.
Huge thanks to Harper Collins UK/One More Chapter for the ARC.
December 3, 2020
Jess Bridges is back! Having recently read ‘Black River’ and discovered a new favourite female investigator, I was delighted to meet up with her again. Like all good crime novels the story begins with a death - a woman’s body is found on the white horse carved into the Oxfordshire countryside. Leo, the enigmatic and handsome detective of ‘Black River’, is called in to investigate and Jess Bridges is undercover looking for a missing girl and their cases are due to overlap! As with ‘Black River’ this was a wonderful mixture of laughter stirred up with the fear. Jess undercover in a commune was a glorious recipe for comedy. But a second death provides a chilling reality check. I really love this series - frightening but not too graphic, refreshing humour, fast moving plot and a will they won’t they romantic interest. The series does not have to be read in sequence but why would you miss out on time with Jess! Straight onto the next one for me! Thank you to Netgalley and One More Chapter for this entertaining read!!
October 18, 2020
Thus begins the second (third) installment of the Jess Bridges murder mystery. She always seems to be in the wrong and right place at the same time, and getting into all sorts of shenanigans! Atleast this time she wasn't the one to find the body!
I always love how I can't quite seem to pick out the real murderer from the word go with this series. It's a refreshing aspect.
I enjoyed the possible new love interest, who seems to be far more appropriate than her previous love affairs! I hope to see more of this in the next few books!
On the magic mushroom front however, it is common knowledge that they grow in the UK, amongst other places. It didnt negatively impact my reading experience however.
I thoroughly enjoyed this installment, and as ever I am looking forward to the next one.
I always love how I can't quite seem to pick out the real murderer from the word go with this series. It's a refreshing aspect.
I enjoyed the possible new love interest, who seems to be far more appropriate than her previous love affairs! I hope to see more of this in the next few books!
On the magic mushroom front however, it is common knowledge that they grow in the UK, amongst other places. It didnt negatively impact my reading experience however.
I thoroughly enjoyed this installment, and as ever I am looking forward to the next one.
December 10, 2020
White Horse is the 2nd in a series featuring Jess Bridges, Private Detective and Finder of Missing people and DI Leo George.
After a naked body is found at the White Horse near Uffington, the investigation quickly turns to the cult that rents a property nearby. As luck would have it, a search for a missing person leads Jess there as well but to gain entry, she must go under cover and join the cult. As DI George’s investigation leads him back to the cult, he and Jess find themselves working together again.
This series plays off of the two main characters’ quirky sides and humorous banter. Jess’s impulse control and naughty nature seem to balance perfectly with DI George’s much more reserved leanings.
An entertaining read with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
After a naked body is found at the White Horse near Uffington, the investigation quickly turns to the cult that rents a property nearby. As luck would have it, a search for a missing person leads Jess there as well but to gain entry, she must go under cover and join the cult. As DI George’s investigation leads him back to the cult, he and Jess find themselves working together again.
This series plays off of the two main characters’ quirky sides and humorous banter. Jess’s impulse control and naughty nature seem to balance perfectly with DI George’s much more reserved leanings.
An entertaining read with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 4, 2021
White Horse is an excellent second book within an outstanding series. Picking up this book after having read Black River, Red House and Grey Stones, brought a fresh perspective. White Horse is unequivocally exciting to read even as a stand-alone. Joss Stirling takes us into the hive of a cult. Within this well-crafted plot, the macabre is treated with respect and the living with levity. The characters develop very naturally from our introduction to them in Black River.
This is a book about friendships and is a reminder that they can be found in unexpected places and people. The setting lies in the rugged countryside of Oxfordshire, the pace of the story is brisk and the conclusion, unexpected.
More Jess Bridges Mysteries please!
This is a book about friendships and is a reminder that they can be found in unexpected places and people. The setting lies in the rugged countryside of Oxfordshire, the pace of the story is brisk and the conclusion, unexpected.
More Jess Bridges Mysteries please!
November 14, 2020
I was drawn to request this book because of the cover--I've visited the Uffington White Horse in person and intrigued to see what story was being woven about it. Jess Bridges is a fresh new detective face....impulsive, dogged, and downright curious, she gets involved in cases and can't let go. This time she goes undercover in a "cult" near the Uffington White Horse to find a missing daughter. Instead, she stumble across a murder investigation led by DI Leo George, someone whom she would like to know better. Great fun and full of unexpected twists.
Thanks to HaperCollins UK for access to a digital ARC via NetGalley.
Thanks to HaperCollins UK for access to a digital ARC via NetGalley.
February 16, 2021
The discovery of the body of a young woman on the ancient site of the famous White Horse near Uffington starts a tricky investigation by local Detective Leo George whilst at the same time, local quirky private investigator Jessica Bridges begins the task of convincing the daughter of her acquaintance Tanglewood White to quit the local cult / commune. Jess joins the commune to progress her case and it isn’t long before both investigations become entwined and Jess gets to work more closely with Leo which she is only too happy to do.
The story is cleverly told and there are enough suspects to keep the reader guessing until the end.
The story is cleverly told and there are enough suspects to keep the reader guessing until the end.
September 10, 2023
The discovery of the body of a young woman on the ancient site of the famous White Horse near Uffington starts a tricky investigation by local Detective Leo George whilst at the same time, local quirky private investigator Jessica Bridges begins the task of convincing the daughter of her acquaintance Tanglewood White to quit the local cult / commune. Jess joins the commune to progress her case and it isn’t long before both investigations become entwined and Jess gets to work more closely with Leo which she is only too happy to do.
The story is cleverly told and there are enough suspects to keep the reader guessing until the end.
The story is cleverly told and there are enough suspects to keep the reader guessing until the end.
September 17, 2020
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the arc, which I have enjoyed reading.
This is the second book in the Jess Bridges series and this book is as quirky and entertaining as the first book. I particularly enjoyed reading about Jess’s interaction with Michael, whom she now views as a friend and Leo, Detective Inspector Leo George .
The storylines are entertaining and imaginative and the characters are always quirky and interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed reading White Horse by Joss Stirling.
Highly recommended
This is the second book in the Jess Bridges series and this book is as quirky and entertaining as the first book. I particularly enjoyed reading about Jess’s interaction with Michael, whom she now views as a friend and Leo, Detective Inspector Leo George .
The storylines are entertaining and imaginative and the characters are always quirky and interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed reading White Horse by Joss Stirling.
Highly recommended
February 12, 2021
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I was provided an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my own honest voluntary review.
October 19, 2020
White Horse – Book 2 in the series – Love it! Jess, Leo and Michael are back on the case. I love how the characters got more depth in this book. It was great to read (and learn) more about the White Horse,
Fast paced, kept me turning pages. Looking forward to Book 3.
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK and One More Chapter for the opportunity to read this book and give my review
Fast paced, kept me turning pages. Looking forward to Book 3.
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK and One More Chapter for the opportunity to read this book and give my review
December 5, 2020
A great series continues
Excellent mystery with well-developed characters that you can't avoid liking. The storu stays strong and you can't help root for Jess, as she solves the mystery and in romance. Will continue to follow this engaging series!
Excellent mystery with well-developed characters that you can't avoid liking. The storu stays strong and you can't help root for Jess, as she solves the mystery and in romance. Will continue to follow this engaging series!
March 1, 2021
I would like to thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book. I really enjoyed this book and I like the main characters of Leo and Jess. I look forward to reading more of this series.
March 11, 2021
A great page turner!
Thoroughly enjoyed this story, kept me guessing right to the end. I love the contemporary feel of this plot as well as finding the key characters ones you would enjoy meeting. Looking forward to the next one already!
Thoroughly enjoyed this story, kept me guessing right to the end. I love the contemporary feel of this plot as well as finding the key characters ones you would enjoy meeting. Looking forward to the next one already!
December 9, 2020
Recommended.
Review posted at Tzer Island book blog:
https://www.tzerisland.com/bookblog/2...
Review posted at Tzer Island book blog:
https://www.tzerisland.com/bookblog/2...
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