Red House

Jess Bridges Mystery #3

by Joss Stirling

The compelling new mystery featuring Bridges and George has them taking on a haunting new case that will leave them doubting their judgement, and even their own eyes and ears …

Genres: Mystery, British Literature, Fiction

400 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 27, 2020

About the author

Joss 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.

Reviews

[Blaine DeSantis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for this free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
This is book 3 in the Jess Bridges Mysteries, and here it is Christmas time in Jolly Old England. Set in Oxford, Jess is a temp worker who is right smack in the middle of the BBC Christmas TV special and, despite the “drama” involved with this production, it is quickly overshadowed by the fact that a body has been discovered in a wealthy neighborhood garden. This brings DI Leo George into the scene as he is in charge of the investigation and quickly discovers that the body appears to have been buried for at least 13 months or longer.
Living in the neighborhood is Jess Bridges, who in addition to holding down the temp job at Oxford, also is a missing persons investigator, and in addition to house sitting at what is referred to as the “Red House” due to the brick color. Jess and Leo apparently almost had a date in a prior book but romance never materialized, but in this book that is about to change.
The body was found at the house owned by Russian Oligarch, Anatoly Chernov, and Jess is house sitting in an even larger house owned by a Uzbek diamond Oligarch who she has not heard from for months.
Neither oligarch has lived in their respective houses for months, nor has any of their extended families and so Jess and Leo team up to try and figure out who is in the garden, and solve the crime. Along the way we are introduced to the nosey and combative neighborhood association who are trying to keep the Oxford area from degenerating into rather non-traditional uses – someone wanted to install a pool, another wanted to turn the mansion into student housing units. While it sounds a bit confusing, it goes to show how protective so many people are of their neighborhoods and what lengths people will go to protect them.
While this is a Jess Bridges mystery, she really does not have a lot to do with solving this crime. The plot is good, the characters are interesting, but I was able to easily figure out the murderer as one by one every possible suspect just did not fit for the murder. I have not read the first two books, but there is enough here for me to want to give Book 4 a chance. The author seems to have graduated from the Young Adult/Fantasy genre, and there really is a lot to like in these Jess Bridges Mysteries.

[8stitches 9lives · Rating 4 out of 5]

Red House is the third instalment in the Jess Bridges Mystery series, set in and around Oxford. 31-year-old Private Investigator and main protagonist, Jess, specialises in locating missing people and after the planned date between her and Detective Inspector Leo George was scuppered at the end of the second book due to his interfering, narcissistic mother, they come together once again to investigate when a body is discovered. Having found a job, through an upmarket concierge service, house sitting at the opulent mansion of an Uzbek billionaire and diamond trader Akmal Gulom, known as the Red House, in an exclusive, affluent neighbourhood home to societies elite, Jess notices the presence of police from Thames Valley CID, including DI George and DS Harry Boston. At 13 Hay Road, the home opposite, belonging to Russian oligarch, Anatoly Chernov she discovers that gardener Marigold Green has stumbled onto a corpse buried beneath a holly tree. The police and Jess decide to dig into Chernov’s life and identify the body as his but they are struggling to understand why no one has reported him missing given he's been absent for over a year. Clearly something is very much amiss...

This is a compulsive, addictive and thoroughly original series I have come to really enjoy, and Stirling knows exactly how to keep you on your toes. The engaging mix of engrossing plot, will they/won't they romance, quirky characters and fun banter throughout is what sets this book, and series, apart from the rest. I also absolutely adore the fact that all three instalments so far have had totally polar opposite plots, which makes it exciting and fresh each time. I must admit, I'm not usually a fan of romance between central figures but the chemistry between Jess and Leo isn't too over the top or contrived, and I felt the obstacles that have so far been putting a spanner in the works when it comes to dating were very relatable and believable, so it works; it remains to be seen whether anything will develop. We learn more about Jess’s secret past too, which adds another element of intrigue to the story. The plot is superbly planned and multilayered with so much action, intense drama and an all-encompassing, complex page-turner, complete with Eastern European family feuds, to thrill you royally. I'm looking forward to the fourth instalment, Grey Stones, coming on 29th January. Highly recommended.

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good read with likeable characters- it's the second book I have read featuring Jess Bridges, and I really enjoy her. This time, Jess just happens to be house-sitting in a giant mansion when a body is found in the neighbor's backyard. Turns out there was a feud between the owner of her house and the neighbors and she gets to work with police officer and love interest Leo to figure out what happened.

I have to admit the mystery itself wasn't super interesting to me- it had a mafia-like theme as it relates to the body that was found and the families involved. This is not a subject in which I have any interest. That being said, I found Jess charming enough that I got on board with the storyline, and there ended up being much more depth to the dynamic between the main players. I am happy to say I am glad I kept reading- there were many twists..

Overall, I like Jess and Leo and I like the series, so I am certain I will be picking up the next book when it comes. I'd recommend it if you like a spunky female protagonist even if the synopsis doesn't grip you. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Gary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Jess Bridges series by author Joss Stirling. This is a mystery series that doesn't take it self too serious. Full of fun and action in the crazy world of amateur sleuth Jess Bridges. I have now read the first three books in this series and it is a welcome change to my usual more series crime reads.

All the regular characters return for a new investigation into a body found at the bottom of a garden. As per usual Jess is never too far away from the action and she just happens to be house sitting at the very property where the body is found. Lots of fun and action along the way and another very good read that is a little different. Good characters and a decent plot, written well make a very entertaining read.

I would like to thank both Netgalley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

[Karen Barber · Rating 3 out of 5]

A rather strange - and usually ill-advised - situation to enter a series a few books in with no prior knowledge of the characters. In this case, it didn’t drastically affect my understanding of events.
Jess is (and I’m sure this has already been established) an investigator who has been caught up with local police. This time round she becomes embroiled in a rather intriguing case when a body is discovered in the grounds of the house next door to where she is house-sitting.
The plot focuses on the search to discover who might have killed the wealthy Russian home-owner. Things become rather murky when we learn that his neighbour, also a very wealthy man, is also dead. The murder method is not similar, but there’s good reason to suspect the cases are linked. It’s also very obvious that someone in this idyllic Oxford neighbourhood knows more than they want to admit.
Alongside our key plot there’s the evident continuation of the developing relationship between Jess and the Inspector. It went in a rather unexpected direction and became quite fantastic in its approach, but wrapped up in its general air of coziness it felt too easy to overlook what was actually quite a grim tale.

[Louise Wilson]

Jess Bridges Mystery #3

Jess Bridges is a private investigator who specialises in finding missing people. But she finds herself working once again alongside DI Leo George. While Jess is house sitting, a gardener to a neighbouring property finds the body of a Russian businessman.

This is a quick and engrossing read. It's action packed with some humour thrown into the mix. There is references to the previous books but I do think this book could be read as a standalone. I quite like the budding romance between Jess and Leo. We learn more of Jess's secret past which adds more intrigue to the story. I really like this series.


I would like to thank #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #JossStirling for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Yesha- Books Teacup and Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks to Publisher for e-copy via NetGalley, as a part of blogger group.

Red House was entertaining whodunnit mystery that revolved around body found in central north Oxford, an affluent and quiet area in terms of crime, near the Red House where coincidently Jess has just moved in as house sitter. She has a way to get involved in all cases Leo is leading, right? The story was about business rivalry between Russian Oligarch, nosey neighbours, socialism and yet conservative thoughts and behaviour, political connections, diamonds, money, and past secrets.

Writing was like previous books engaging, fun, filled with Jess’s humour and sarcasm, and medium paced in comparison to previous books. It was written in third person alternative perspective of Leo and Jess. We don’t see Michael’s perspective as frequent as previous books.

Characters were interesting and realistic. There were so many characters like previous book. I enjoyed something happening between Michael and Corry. I worried Michael might not get over Jess after reading hint of his more than friendly feeling but now that was cleared and more focused on Jess and Leo without any complications.

I so loved seeing development in Jess and Leo’s relationship. I’m not going to describe Jess and Leo any more. If you’re following my previous book reviews of this series you must know Jess was reckless, lively, and sassy with heart of gold while Leo was opposite of Jess -serious and organised.

Why 4 stars-
It was a bit unbelievable to understand the motif for murder because as per Leo’s guess after finding evidence in Red House I still don’t understand the madness for revenge.

Overall, Red House was fun, intriguing, and complex murder mystery with interesting characters. I highly recommend this book if you’re fan of author, whodunnit mystery, sassy and fun character.

Read full review here - https://booksteacupreviews.com/2021/0...

[Brenda Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jess was hired by Glass Towers to houses sit at a historical house in Oxford - multimillion dollar historical homes, closing monitored by the North Oxford Protection Society.
Leo is called to the house behind Jess - the gardener discovered a body. Considering the decomposition, it had been hidden for quite some time.
An elite school. An elite neighborhood. Children of sworn enemies falling in love. Jess' humor, day job and her boss Paul. And of course Leo's narcissistic mother. All make an interesting plot, great mystery.

I was given a free ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Mick Dubois · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jess, 31, single, a disaster area for relationships, and an aspiring private detective is now house sitting in the mansion of an Uzbeki billionaire through a concierge agency. She’s also temping on the administrative staff of an Oxford college as cover for a woman on maternity leave. To her great surprise, she’s asked to read the 6th lesson in a Christmas service that will be televised live on the BBC. The reverend is even more accident-prone than herself. So, what can possibly go wrong?
A gardener working for a concierge service finds a body buried under the mulch around a holly tree. The house belongs to a Russian oligarch who’s a personal friend of the president and at first, DI Leo George from Thames Valley CID fears for possible political implications. The victim appears to be the house owner but how can he be missing for over a year without anyone raising alarm, not his own family, not his business partners?
Guess whose dog wanders into the garden? Yup, Jess and Leo are being reunited again. Their mutual attraction is bigger than ever but Jess struggles with her past that she feels must be disclosed before they go any further.

This is the 3rd book in this series but can be read as a standalone. There are references to things that occurred in the previous books, but where necessary things are adequately explained. Of course, it’s better to read a series in order but you can follow what’s happening in this book without any problems.
As in the previous books, there are a few funny one-liners scattered around the book that will raise a smile here and there. But it’s not a comedy.
“9 Lessons and Carol Service” is something that I hadn’t heard of before and I had to google it. I assumed that it was something like a nativity play that I saw in Anglican churches when I lived in England, but it turns out to be a totally different tradition. As we don’t have something similar in Catholic churches, I might be forgiven. For more info:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nine_Le...
Leo has big problems with his most unwelcome and very non-maternal mother that turned up on his doorstep at the end of the previous story. He wants her gone as she messed up his youth and continues to do so, even now. She’s lucky that he’s such a gentle person, for she’s the kind of person, one would strangle without remorse or guilt.
Something that I noticed in this book is the different attitude to race and colour between the US and UK. American ones will say African-American each and every time, while here British people are just people, regardless of their colour or ancestral origins. It’ says somewhere in this book: “The head wrap of the woman suggests that she’s rather of West-African than of Caribbean decent.” It would be seen as bad taste and even insulting to call someone an African-Belgian or African-Englishman, as it implies that they’re not full citizens. On top of that not, all dark-skinned people are of African heritage.
I thought that I had everything figured out more or less by chapter 34 (about the same time as Jess) but that was a twist too soon. This was an engaging and enjoyable read. The characters are well known by now, so the author can concentrate her best on the story development that fits nicely together. These characters aren’t always likeable but very well described. The narcissistic mother is so obnoxious and intolerable that only a saint would not strangle her.
I thank NetGalley and Harper Collins, One More Chapter for the free ARC they provided me with, this is my unbiased and honest review.

[Julie Lacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read from Joss Stirling.
A body is discovered in the grounds of a mansion and when Leo and the team go to investigate they come across Jess, as she’s house sitting in a neighbouring property.
It seems the two owners of the houses had history so suspicions are on the owner of the Red House where Jess is staying.
With the owner not able to be found Leo starts to focus on the family and managing agent for the properties.
Jess is intrigued by the missing home owner so helps Leo out as her PI business is still not off the ground.
Soon another body is discovered and this time it’s in the Red House.
I love that these books are fast paced and the humour from Jess is brilliant.
This is a gripping thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thanks to Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A interesting crime story set in Oxford. This involves some involvement with Oxford university, but not too much. This is part of a series about the detective Leo. I have not read any of the others, but this book was fine as a stand alone and any previous contact between the characters was explained in a natural way which did not feel at all overdone.
Jess and Leo's paths cross this time as she is house sitting in an expensive area of Oxford. Both the house where she is staying and the neighbours house belong to Russian business families who have business ventures and properties throughout the world. Leo is called to one of the houses when the gardener unearths a shoe,still attached to the owners foot, buried in the garden. The book follows the investigation, being sometimes held back by both the attitudes of the old school residents of the area and the Russian ways of doing business .
Jess and Leo are attracted to each other, but this has the twin complications of Leo's mother and problems in both of their younger days which could be barriers to a relationship.
I liked the realism in this book and the twists and turns in the plot as the book progressed . Both make for an interesting and believable read , Mostly good and likeable characterisations and descriptions
Thank you to net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Vivienne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another delightful mystery for Jess

‘Red House’ is the third in Joss Stirling’s series of mysteries featuring private investigator, Jess Bridges, and DI Leo George of the Oxford police. I have now read all of the previous books, though Stirling does provide enough background for readers new to the series.

A body is discovered buried in the garden of a large house in central Oxford owned by a Russian oligarch and DI Leo George is on the scene. The gardener who discovered the body tells him about the sweet girl who has just taken over house-sitting of the neighbouring huge mansion, known as the Red House. It turns out to be Jess! The Red House is owned by another billionaire, this one from Uzbekistan. There’s a complex history between the two men and their families. Naturally Jess gets involved in the investigation.

This was again a delightful whodunnit, not quite a cosy though it has enough comedic touches to lighten its darker elements. It is set at Christmas and one subplot has Jess in a temporary job at one of the colleges, where she is assigned the task by her unreasonable boss to decorate its Tudor chapel for a BBC documentary on a minimal budget.

I also appreciated that an earlier owner of the Red House loved Alice in Wonderland and had decorated the garden with statues of its various characters.

Certainly a book and series that I enjoy very much.

[Linda Leone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Red House is the 3rd book in the series. I really liked the first two and this one as well. Jess is house sitting when a body is found in a neighboring garden. As usual, she ends up helping with the investigation. Each of the characters has their own little quirks that add to the murder mystery. I love the humor aspects of these books. An easy read that kept me interested until the end. I will be looking for the next book for sure.

Thanks to netgalley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for the arc

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the only Joss Stirling book I've read so I felt a little lost at the beginning as I was unsure of the relationship between main characters Jess and Leo, but I quickly figured it out. It's a murder mystery with a bit of romance as Jess discovers that there is a body buried in the garden where she is house sitting. Since she also moonlights as a detective finding missing persons, she becomes helpful to Leo as they investigate the case together as rival mob family business may be involved. I enjoyed this thoroughly and will read more by Stirling!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!

[Ali Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to follow.

[Caroline Kerdouci · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Red House, the location is still Oxford, but events this time are set in an affluent, exclusive part of the city housing the more elite members of society. Number 13 Hay Road is where gardener Marigold Green discovers a dead body buried beneath a holly tree and the opening of this latest Jess Bridges mystery sees DI Leo George and DS Harry Boston at the scene of the crime. As they begin their preliminary investigations it just so happens Jess Bridges is house sitting in the red house that backs onto this property so it’s not long before my favourite detective duo are reunited. Both houses belong to absent owners, one a Russian oligarch, Anatoly Chernov and the other Akmal Gulom, a Uzbek diamond trader. Clearly it’s down to Leo and his team, not forgetting Jess, to identify the body in the garden, discover the reasons for its indecent burial and appease the neighbours who are unsurprisingly alarmed at such a crime occurring on their doorsteps.

This is a storyline that encompasses family feuds, a past tragedy and international diamond smuggling. There’s plenty of motivation for murder in which love, revenge and money feature first and foremost. The author relies heavily on setting, its significance integral to every storyline and Red House is no exception. In this instance events centre around the local private school St Bede’s, the North Oxford Protection society, local architecture and disputes over planning applications. As always the sense of the history surrounding Oxford, the grandeur of its colleges and chapels permeate the pages of what is another well paced, well executed but often comic murder mystery. I particularly liked the literary theme that is threaded throughout the storyline with a much loved childhood classic and one of Shakespeare’s most famous plays used cleverly to form the backbone of this current crime and responsible for signposting Leo and Jess towards the culprit(s). There’s also a secondary minor storyline involving Jess in her current temporary position working for one of the colleges which compliments the rest of the humour that is the highlight of this series so far. From an unpronounceable Syrian governor’s name to a vodka brand named lawyer you can rely on a fair amount of comedy to accompany the discovery of a dead body or two! That Jess will find herself in the thick of all the action is a given.

As I’d anticipated (and hoped for!) Red House sees a development in the personal relationship between our detective duo which up until now they’ve been carefully sidestepping. Thank you to Joss for upping the romantic stakes and revealing more of these characters backstories. Up until now I’ve felt the author has held back in terms of Leo’s character so that he presents as a bit of an enigma. Thankfully those thoughts have now been banished with Leo casting off some of his woodenness, opening his heart and allowing the reader to visualise the man beyond his sharp suits and love of gardening. Details of his childhood and toxic relationship with his fame hungry, narcissistic mother emerge that make him seem infinitely more human. In contrast I thought Jess appears more grown up, or at least is trying to be. Usually so chaotic and impulsive with a lack of moral compass, this storyline sees her on her best behaviour. I missed her more wild side although her upbeat persona and knack of acquiring pertinent information in her own inimitable ways are still very much in evidence. Her daft humour which threatens to spill over into all her encounters is one of the most endearing aspects of Jess’s character. The scene between her and Leo and his mother is priceless! The usual gang comprising police colleagues Harry Boston and Suyin Wong, friend Cory and ex boyfriend Michael Harrison pop up from time to time so those already familiar with the series will feel comforted by their presence. I’m glad Michael was relegated to a more minor role in this outing as it gives Leo his chance to shine.

This series just gets better and better. From the colour coded titles to the well constructed plot lines and the brilliant partnership between detective Leo George and part time PI Jess Bridges, this is a fantastic mystery series to become totally absorbed in. Red House is my favourite so far and if you’re looking for your next satisfying binge read there are now three cracking books to sink your teeth into. I’m so excited that the fourth in the series is due to be released early in the new year. My thanks as always to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three of the series and, as always, to get the very best from it in terms of character development and backstory it's best to start at book one and read in order. Each book's story is self-contained but all, imo, have been excellent reads so... well... why not?!
So... Jess Bridges and DI Leo George are thrust (!) together once again when their paths cross over murder... again! A body is found in a garden of a big house which neighbours on another big house that Jess is currently house sitting in. Coincidentally!
As with the previous two books this book is just as much fun as, although a crime book dealing with quite heinous crimes, it really doesn't take itself too seriously. There is a lot of fun to be had along the way - there are scrapes and shenanigans, as well as a wee side order of romance to be found within, alongside the peril and danger of a murderer on the loose. With Jess inveigling herself into the investigation as she is wont to do... With both home owners minted and absent, it's hard initially for George to get a foothold on the investigation but Jess's boss at her latest temp job provides some background that helps. As more of the past is uncovered, the events of the present start to make sense but will George get to the bottom of things in time to save Christmas for all...
I love this series. I have a soft spot for Jess and feel for George as she's a bit of a handful. In this book though, as well as Jess, George has other personal issues to contend with and we get to know him a little better along the way. As well as a cracking crime plot, it's also quite character driven, not just with our dynamic duo, but the other main series characters who all, once again, have their parts to play here. Interaction between them feels real and there is a fair bit of banter to be had along the way too.
All in all, a cracking addition to an already promising series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

[Shyanne Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, I want to say thank you to Netgalley for gifting me this book in return for an honest review. That being said, I accidentally started in the middle of the series! Red House is the third installment in Joss Stirling's Jess Bridges Mystery series. Even though I started in the middle I never felt lost while reading the story. They thoroughly and briefly went through the history and back story. I thoroughly enjoyed the story line and drama in this book! This book makes you question if you ever truly know who your neighbors are. In this culture Oxford suburb, one might think they do. But they would be terribly wrong. This gripping, fast paced murder mystery dives deep into the world of the elite who live in there and send there children to their high end schools. When the body of a Russian oligarch is found buried in his own garden people start to talk. Detective Inspector Leo George suspects he upset someone in high places. But could it be as simple as a long held grudge. Jess Bridges, the heroine who is house sitting the lot next door, and DI Leo team up to get to the bottom of the mystery and enjoy the company of each other in the meantime. His superior detective skills and Bridges uncanny ability to always be caught in the middle of things made for a entertaining pair! I undeniably enjoyed the romance and tension between the two and can't wait to see where they end up in the books to come! Red House is a thrilling read that kept my attention throughout and had me on the edge of my seat! The unpredictable twists and turns kept me intrigued and questioning what I would do in that situation. I give Red House a 5 out of 5 stars! I definitely recommend it to all mystery/ romance lovers!

[Tessa Talks Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third novel in the Jess Bridges detective series is just as action-packed, compelling, and funny as the previous novels. However, this time, the focus is more on Leo, the police detective who often crosses paths with Jess and her investigations. The focus on Leo, along with Jess’s lack of an investigation of her own, makes the story read like a police procedural rather than the typical private detective mystery. Michael, the psychologist that rounds out the three main characters, is rarely seen in this story, which I missed, but I hope to see more of him in the fourth novel.

I enjoyed learning about Leo, his personal life, and his blooming romance with another character simmering in the background since the first novel. He is a complex character that is given the depth and layers that was missing until now. His mother is also an interesting character, and I enjoyed getting to meet her and loved the antics that ensued due to her visit.

The adversary this time around is part of a complex story involving the diamond trade and Russian subterfuge and illegal dealings, which gives the story a bit of a political thriller twist. I love the wide variety of crimes that Jess becomes involved in – from a serial killer to a cult, and now Russians. As a reader, knowing any illegal activity that results in murder is fair game for Jess Bridges makes the series very exciting and heightens my anticipation for the next novel.

Jess Bridges is a hard-hitting, fledgling private investigator who has a little grit, a dab of laugh out loud humor, and always promises a good time reading her tales.

[Josie ❃The Bubbly Book Reviewer❃ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well-written, expressive prose, relationships based mystery.

I really thought I knew who it would be early on in the story, but it wasn’t who I thought it was. Isn’t that the way it is supposed to be! A mystery that includes family relationships and love stories. If you like flowers (literally) and flowery prose this is a book for you.
Quote:
"It was chill and damp in the garden. Even in winter Leo found it beautiful, a sylvan palace of intricate interwoven branches shot through with the dark gloss of the evergreens. Sprays of red berries from holly and tiny apples on the crab decorated the borders – not that he could see these now but he knew they were there. The yellow explosion of the mahonia bush enlivened one corner, the spiky leaves looking like frozen fireworks shooting out from the main stem. For all this nature is never spent … it was a line from an Oxford poet that Leo often revolved in his mind like a lucky penny in his pocket."

I gave this book 3 stars because I’m not a fan of romance, relationships and flowery prose in my mysteries. I am sure if you like these 3 things you would find this well-written book a 5 star read. Therefore, I do recommend this book.

Synopsis from the publisher, as they do it best.
A thrilling new whodunnit series, fast-paced and funny, featuring a detective as sharp as his suits and a heroine who’s trouble.
The compelling new mystery featuring Bridges and George has them taking on a haunting new case that will leave them doubting their judgement, and even their own eyes and ears …

I would like to thank NetGalley and HarperCollins, UK, One More Chapter for an advance copy.
#RedHouse #NetGalley #BubblyBookReviewer

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red House is the third instalment in Joss Stirling's series set in Oxford featuring thirty-odd-year-old PI Jess Bridges and this novel definitely starts with a bang.

Gardener Marigold Green gets more than she bargained for when she unearths a corpse whilst mulching a holly tree. Detective Inspector Leo George is on the case and crosses paths again with Jess who's house-sitting for the deceased's neighbour next door. It soon becomes apparent that the victim - a Russian millionaire - and Jess' client, Akmal Gulom - a billionaire and diamond trader - were feuding...

This was an absorbing, witty and riveting read with a plot that gripped me. The pacing was swift and I was racing along to find out what would be occurring next. Joss Stirling has again rewarded me with her chaotic, fun and reckless main character and I was rooting for Jess all the way. An action-packed, rousing and expertly plotted story with a surprising ending, I can't wait to see what treats will be in store when book four, Grey Stones is released. Very highly recommended.

Thanks to NetGalley, One More Chapter and the author, Joss Stirling for the complimentary advanced copy. This is my honest and totally voluntary review.

[Michelle B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Red House is the excellent third book in the brilliant series featuring private investigator Jess Bridges and Detective Inspector Leo George. As with the previous two, the book mixes a gripping main story (where we need to ascertain who committed the murder and why) with some light humour and could we, finally, have some romance between Jess and Leo?
Jess is currently waiting for her next job as a private investigator, funding her life by a combination of house sitting in a very upmarket area of Oxford and covering maternity leave in an admin job in one of the Oxford Colleges. As Leo and his team are tasked with finding the identity of a body and how he died, his path again crosses with Jess and they work together to get to the bottom of the matter.
Will they be able to solve the case? Will they finally get together? Should business and pleasure ever be mixed? Will the outcome be a happy one for all involved?
Highly recommend reading this and the other books in series (including Don’t Trust Me where we first meet Jess and Michael and learn about their back stories).
Thanks to NetGalley for a Kindle copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Andrew · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in the Jess Bridges Mystery series.

In this book Jess is house sitting in the Red House in Oxford when a one year old body turns up in her neighbouring garden, a house owned by a Russian billionaire. Has he had someone killed, is someone planting evidence on him in revenge or has he been killed? Watch Jess, along with Detective Inspector Leo George, investigate this complex crime.

I love the depth of these books and the quirky nature of Jess, who willingly admits to being totally impulsive. There is a good plot line in this book, with some interesting characters and plenty of twists along the way. They are also supported well by the relationship or not between Jess and Leo.

The book is written from alternative chapters written from both Jess and Leo’s perspective and this also adds another layer to the story. These have quickly become must reads for me and I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I am happy to recommend this book and series to those that love a good crime and detective book. Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for providing a copy of this book for me, for an an open and honest review.

[Kathleen Gray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jess finds herself reunited with DI Leo George when a body turns up in the garden next door to the place she's housesitting for an Uzbek diamond dealing kajillionaire. And, of course, that house is owned by a Russian oligarch. Geez. And it's not clear who the corpse is (was?0. Jess, who cobbles together a variety of incomes, is also an ace amateur sleuth (even if she steps in it occasionally). She's got a gig at Oxford that finds her also part of the Christmas service there (this is fun). Leo and his team find themselves in the soup with this one as the cases has tendrils that lead into the politics of the Oxford community and old rivalries. Leo's also dealing with his mom. I read the first book in this series and enjoyed it, in part because Stirling makes good use of her setting and winds tidbits that might send you to the wiki throughout. It's not a comedy or comedic but there's often something (usually from Jess) that will make you smile. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. A fun read that will ne fine as a standalone.

[Lex Marsden · Rating 5 out of 5]

We return to Jess Bridges chaotic life in a third installment of the mysteries.

As always Jess bridges is once again stumbling across a body in an odd fashion. I really like Jess Bridges because she is relatable, and has that chaotic energy, bouncing around. She is a powerful character. She is developing more as a character throughout the series, and we are beginning to learn even more about her thought processes, which is brilliant.

Leo, we also learn more about in this book. The dynamic between them is evolving, which is a really lovely little side story, and I can't wait to see how this evolves more!

I absolutely adore how I can never seem to pinpoint the murderer early, unlike in so many other crime series, it really keeps you guessing. I particularly liked the references to history, and other stories in the book. I couldn't put it down, I literally read it in one day (I'm a very fast reader). It pulled me in, and I just needed to know the conclusion.

[the overstuffed bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for this advanced reader's copy of Red House by Joss Stirling.

Joss Stirling does it again! Red House is the thoroughly enjoyable third book in the Jess Bridges series in which Jess finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery by no fault of her own. In this installment Jess is the housesitter for a house with secrets in a neighborhood with even more to hide than the house. Jess also finds herself thrown together with Detective Inspector Leo George, helping to solve the murder mystery and maybe finding love along the way.

I was so excited to read the third book in the Jess Bridges series that I immediately purchased the second installment, White Horse, which I had somehow missed. I would recommend just making sure that you have the whole series on hand so that you can immediately dive into the next book. You're definitely going to want to!

[Sally · Rating 4 out of 5]

My third in the Jess Bridges series and I’m really feeling at home now. It’s definitely my go-to series this year. As with those well- loved tv detective series like Morse/Midsummer Murders etc. there are some definite patterns. A body at the start, Jess entertaining us with her lack of boundaries, inventiveness, unique sense of humour and capacity for scrapes. Added to this the delicious evolving romance with Detective Leo and the beautiful Oxford setting. This time there’s a cold case (or cold body as it’s been in the ground at least a year!) Nearby Jess is housesitting and discovers a further body. This is a really entertaining read, hugely enjoyable and if you like the Jess Bridges formula you will love it. The first in the series chilled me more than the second and third which definitely have a ‘cosier’ feel. With thanks to Netgalley and One More Chapter for a digital copy of this great read.

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jess is house sitting with her dog Flossie when the gardener next door discovers a body in the undergrowth. The dead man is a Russian businessman.
It turns out the owner of the house Jess is looking after had connections with the dead man and they didn’t get on. A tragic accident had happened resulting in the death of a child.
Inspector Leo George of Thames Valley Police is brought in to led the investigation. Jess and Leo have a simmering romantic interest carried on from previous books. Will the pair finally get it together? And will they open up to each other about their pasts.!
This book has fantastic characters which are developing as the series goes on. Alongside a great murder investigation. This book is great as a stand-alone book as you can soon pick up the story back lines.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the opportunity to see this arc

[Evelyn Jane Thorne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Red House is the third book in the Jess Bridges Mystery Series by Joss Stirling. The narration and perspective changes between Jess, DI Leo George and Michael. This book follows Jess and Leo as they investigate when a body is found in the garden near the house she is minding.

It was great to see Jess again along with all the craziness that seems to follow wherever she goes. I feel like her character has developed a lot since the first book Black River and I found that I liked her a lot more. I really liked that there was more focus on Leo and that there was more information on his childhood in this book. He is my favourite character and I loved getting to know him on a deeper level.

Joss Stirling has managed to write another intriguing, mysterious and humorous story that always leaves me wanting more.

I recieved an advanced copy for free, and this is my honest opinion.

[Ilona · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Red House” 3rd book in Jess Bridges Mysteries. A body gets dug up in a yard neighbouring “Red House”, in an exclusive Oxford neigbourhood where Jess is a paid house sitter.
Again Jess and Leo team up, with old house histories, family feuds, international smuggling, Eastern Europe/Russian families feud, … and amidst all that Jess and Leo have honest open conversations, sharing their past and hoping for acceptance of each other.
Love the way Jess’s leaps and bounds in her thought process, her impulse actions, the book references to “Alice in Wonderland” and “The Tale Mrs. Tittlemouse”, and hey and you try saying “Quirinius”!
Thank you to Net Galley and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.