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DCI Ryan Mysteries #10
Longstone
Between the devil and the deep blue sea…
Viking treasure is discovered beneath the icy waters of the North Sea and local historian Doctor Anna Taylor is called in to help catalogue the most exciting hoard in living memory. But when a shipwreck diver washes up dead, she’s soon out of her depth. Luckily, she knows just the person to call…
When DCI Ryan arrives at the picturesque fishing town of Seahouses, he's faced with an impenetrable wall of secrets and lies. As he juggles marine archaeology and the cutthroat world of shipwreck diving, another murder blows the case wide open. To uncover the truth, Ryan must delve deeper into the hearts of those around him to find what lies beneath…
Murder and mystery are peppered with romance and humour in this fast-paced crime whodunnit set amidst the spectacular Northumbrian landscape.
Viking treasure is discovered beneath the icy waters of the North Sea and local historian Doctor Anna Taylor is called in to help catalogue the most exciting hoard in living memory. But when a shipwreck diver washes up dead, she’s soon out of her depth. Luckily, she knows just the person to call…
When DCI Ryan arrives at the picturesque fishing town of Seahouses, he's faced with an impenetrable wall of secrets and lies. As he juggles marine archaeology and the cutthroat world of shipwreck diving, another murder blows the case wide open. To uncover the truth, Ryan must delve deeper into the hearts of those around him to find what lies beneath…
Murder and mystery are peppered with romance and humour in this fast-paced crime whodunnit set amidst the spectacular Northumbrian landscape.
323 pages, Paperback
First published December 8, 2018
4397 people are currently reading
1425 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Ross
58 books3,242 followersLJ Ross is an internationally bestselling author, whose books have sold over 7 million copies worldwide.
Her debut, Holy Island, was released in 2015 and became an instant, international bestseller. Since then, a further eighteen of her novels have gone on to take the coveted #1 spot, some even before general release and whilst only available to ‘pre-order’. The Bookseller magazine has reported on Louise having topped the ‘Most Read’ and ‘Most Sold’ fiction charts, and she has garnered an army of loyal fans who love her atmospheric and addictive storytelling.
Her eleventh novel, The Infirmary, is a prequel story to the DCI Ryan series and is available as a major Audible Originals audio-drama starring Tom Bateman, Kevin Whately, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris and Alun Armstrong.
The first novel in her Alexander Gregory Thrillers series, Impostor, was shortlisted in the British Book Awards 2020: Crime & Thriller Book of the Year. The audiobook of Impostor, narrated by Hugh Dancy, was also selected as a finalist in the New York Festivals Radio Awards, Best Fiction Audiobook of the Year Category.
In May 2021, Louise was shortlisted for the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association ‘Dagger in the Library’ award, which recognises an author’s entire body of work having been consistently enjoyed by library borrowers around the United Kingdom, and an author’s longstanding support of libraries.
Louise was born in Northumberland, England. She studied undergraduate and postgraduate Law at King’s College, University of London and then abroad in Paris and Florence. She spent much of her working life in London, where she was a lawyer for a number of years until taking the decision to change career and pursue her dream to write. Now, she writes full time and lives with her husband and son in Northumberland and Edinburgh. She enjoys reading all manner of books, painting, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
To find out more about the many philanthropic ventures Louise has founded and sponsored through her publishing imprint, Dark Skies Publishing, please visit ‘Philanthropy’.
If you would like to connect with LJ Ross, she would be very happy to hear from you:
https://www.facebook.com/LJRossAuthor
https://twitter.com/ljross_author
www.lovesuspense.com
lj_ross@outlook.com
Her debut, Holy Island, was released in 2015 and became an instant, international bestseller. Since then, a further eighteen of her novels have gone on to take the coveted #1 spot, some even before general release and whilst only available to ‘pre-order’. The Bookseller magazine has reported on Louise having topped the ‘Most Read’ and ‘Most Sold’ fiction charts, and she has garnered an army of loyal fans who love her atmospheric and addictive storytelling.
Her eleventh novel, The Infirmary, is a prequel story to the DCI Ryan series and is available as a major Audible Originals audio-drama starring Tom Bateman, Kevin Whately, Bertie Carvel, Hermione Norris and Alun Armstrong.
The first novel in her Alexander Gregory Thrillers series, Impostor, was shortlisted in the British Book Awards 2020: Crime & Thriller Book of the Year. The audiobook of Impostor, narrated by Hugh Dancy, was also selected as a finalist in the New York Festivals Radio Awards, Best Fiction Audiobook of the Year Category.
In May 2021, Louise was shortlisted for the prestigious Crime Writers’ Association ‘Dagger in the Library’ award, which recognises an author’s entire body of work having been consistently enjoyed by library borrowers around the United Kingdom, and an author’s longstanding support of libraries.
Louise was born in Northumberland, England. She studied undergraduate and postgraduate Law at King’s College, University of London and then abroad in Paris and Florence. She spent much of her working life in London, where she was a lawyer for a number of years until taking the decision to change career and pursue her dream to write. Now, she writes full time and lives with her husband and son in Northumberland and Edinburgh. She enjoys reading all manner of books, painting, travelling and spending time with family and friends.
To find out more about the many philanthropic ventures Louise has founded and sponsored through her publishing imprint, Dark Skies Publishing, please visit ‘Philanthropy’.
If you would like to connect with LJ Ross, she would be very happy to hear from you:
https://www.facebook.com/LJRossAuthor
https://twitter.com/ljross_author
www.lovesuspense.com
lj_ross@outlook.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 487 reviews
November 11, 2019
Another intriguing entry in the DCI Ryan series, in this novel a diver turns up dead on a small island, the day after announcing to everyone in a busy pub that he'd found the wreck of a Viking ship, one that would change the course of history. DCI Ryan is soon on the case with his team. Then another body is found, connected to the first, and Ryan is forced to look deeper into the locals and their lives.
Who would want to murder the well liked archaeological professor? What are some of the locals hiding? I thought I had cracked the case early, and was feeling quite pleased with myself as my character was flying under the radar, but no, LJ Ross was able to surprise us again. A fantastic addition to an excellent series, with wonderful, believable characters and now I'm looking forward to reading the next.
Who would want to murder the well liked archaeological professor? What are some of the locals hiding? I thought I had cracked the case early, and was feeling quite pleased with myself as my character was flying under the radar, but no, LJ Ross was able to surprise us again. A fantastic addition to an excellent series, with wonderful, believable characters and now I'm looking forward to reading the next.
June 9, 2025
Let me start by saying that this entertaining crime novel is the 10th volume of the "DCI Ryan " series.
At the beginning of the book you'll find a famous phrase by Aesop, a phrase that will certainly make the meaning clear of this story.
The author's storytelling is marvellous, all characters are very believable and lifelike ion their dealings with life and crime, while also Longstone, Seahouses and surrounding areas are very well captured by the author.
The book starts off with important events that happened in the Autumn of 1995, and these events will form the basis for the main crime story and that will start in November 2018, with the great find by Iain Tucker of a Viking wreck, and after calling Dr Anna Taylor-Ryan of this important find, that revelation will become his death by an unknown hand.
DCI Ryan is called in, together will his colleagues and friends, being DI MacKenzie, DS Phillips, DC Lowerson and trainee DC Yates, and soon another murder will occur, and these two murder deeds will connect with the death of Kris Reid from 23 years ago, and so by thoroughly investigating these cases they will finally be able to uncover the truth behind these murders, and for me the somewhat predictable culprit and the reason behind it all.
What is to follow is an intriguing and engrossing police procedure, with a lot of action, accompanied by a great storyline and ending with an exciting plot.
Highly recommended, for this is another excellent addition to this tremendous series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "A Dangerous Dive Too Far"!
At the beginning of the book you'll find a famous phrase by Aesop, a phrase that will certainly make the meaning clear of this story.
The author's storytelling is marvellous, all characters are very believable and lifelike ion their dealings with life and crime, while also Longstone, Seahouses and surrounding areas are very well captured by the author.
The book starts off with important events that happened in the Autumn of 1995, and these events will form the basis for the main crime story and that will start in November 2018, with the great find by Iain Tucker of a Viking wreck, and after calling Dr Anna Taylor-Ryan of this important find, that revelation will become his death by an unknown hand.
DCI Ryan is called in, together will his colleagues and friends, being DI MacKenzie, DS Phillips, DC Lowerson and trainee DC Yates, and soon another murder will occur, and these two murder deeds will connect with the death of Kris Reid from 23 years ago, and so by thoroughly investigating these cases they will finally be able to uncover the truth behind these murders, and for me the somewhat predictable culprit and the reason behind it all.
What is to follow is an intriguing and engrossing police procedure, with a lot of action, accompanied by a great storyline and ending with an exciting plot.
Highly recommended, for this is another excellent addition to this tremendous series, and that's why I like to call this latest episode: "A Dangerous Dive Too Far"!
December 17, 2018
This series just keeps getting better and better. L J Ross’ Longstone (DCI Ryan Mystery #10) is set in Seahouses, a coastal town near Bamburgh Castle and Lindsfarne in Northumbria with the North Sea waves hitting the beaches. The North Sea plays a major role in this mystery as in these waters are numerous shipwrecks from the Viking Warships to WWII ships to Longstone Lighthouse of Grace Darling fame (The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughter). Marine archaeology takes a primary position in this mystery as a ‘shipwreck diver’ is found dead on the rocks of Longstone Island, but first DCI Ryan has to be called to investigate. The night before the ‘shipwreck diver’ burst into a local inn and announced that he had finally located the Viking ship that he had been attempting to find for about 30 years. Did he? Who would not want him to find it and why? Ryan has to sift through half-truths and flat out lies to uncover the truth. I read it quickly as I felt I was back among ‘my friends’ in England. Fascinating! If one is into scuba diving, this book is for you. Well done, Ms. Ross! 5 stars!
September 9, 2020
Brilliant as always. Full review to follow.
January 28, 2020
This series is so reliably good. The characters are, by now, old friends and the murders are always intriguing. In this episode a marine archaeologist is found dead the day after he walks into the local pub in a celebratory mood announcing that he had finally found the Viking shipwreck he had spent many years searching for.
The world of adademia seems no less cutthroat than any other when discoveries or kudos is involved so there are a few suspects right from the start. When the harbourmaster (or in this case, mistress) is found dead the next day the plot, naturally, thickens.
There is no need to go into anymore details. It is a fast paced, engaging mystery and L.J. Ross seems to be able to do no wrong in this cracking series.
The world of adademia seems no less cutthroat than any other when discoveries or kudos is involved so there are a few suspects right from the start. When the harbourmaster (or in this case, mistress) is found dead the next day the plot, naturally, thickens.
There is no need to go into anymore details. It is a fast paced, engaging mystery and L.J. Ross seems to be able to do no wrong in this cracking series.
December 12, 2018
I've loved all of the DCI Ryan Mysteries so far, but I can't help feeling this one was rushed out too soon.
Yes, it's a very good story, the writing is superb, but...
In chapters 14 and 17, the character called "Iain" is referred to as "Brian"!!
Chapters 24 and 27 disagree with regard to dates/timings (one states a time frame and length of time, the other gives the time frame as the length of time and denies the time frame) - annoying!
Chapter 29 includes this gem: "We he supposed to tell...". What?!!
The worst for me though? The person responsible for the murders, or more accurately, the way the person is portrayed in a significant part of the story. Not so much a red herring as a blue whale.
So, yes, slightly disappointed with this one. Maybe I should have waited to read it for a few months in the hope that all the problems would have been ironed out.
Yes, it's a very good story, the writing is superb, but...
In chapters 14 and 17, the character called "Iain" is referred to as "Brian"!!
Chapters 24 and 27 disagree with regard to dates/timings (one states a time frame and length of time, the other gives the time frame as the length of time and denies the time frame) - annoying!
Chapter 29 includes this gem: "We he supposed to tell...". What?!!
The worst for me though? The person responsible for the murders, or more accurately, the way the person is portrayed in a significant part of the story. Not so much a red herring as a blue whale.
So, yes, slightly disappointed with this one. Maybe I should have waited to read it for a few months in the hope that all the problems would have been ironed out.
December 16, 2020
Two stars -- it was OK, but I can't say I liked this mystery set in Northumberland. The only thing I really enjoyed about it was the location. The plot was moderately interesting, but the characters were rather one-dimensional, and the writing mediocre. Omnipresent narration with constant jumping between points of view of different characters, often on the same page, grated on my nerves.
August 2, 2022
Tai jau 10-toji serijos dalis apie detektyvą inspektorių Rajeną ir jo komandą. Kiekvienos dalies laukiu su nekantrumu ir skaitau su didžiausiu malonumu, nes šie detektyvai yra lengvai parašyti, bet labai įtraukiantis. 😉
March 29, 2019
Set in Seahouses on the Northumbrian coast, this latest mystery sees DCI Ryan involved with marine archaeology and the ruthless world of deep-sea diving for wrecks.
Iain Tucker is an expert marine archaeologist based at Durham University. He’s been diving around the Farne Islands for a long time, convinced the wreck of a Viking longboat is down on the sea bed somewhere. When Doctor Anna Taylor-Ryan, a colleague, receives a call from Iain she arranges to meet him at The Cockle Inn, but Iain hasn’t turned up for the meeting and is nowhere to be found.
At the Northumbria Criminal Investigation Department, Ryan and his team are sent the details of an unidentified male who has washed up on the rocks at Longstone lighthouse in the outer group of the Farne Islands, made famous through the story of Grace Darling. This investigation uncovers much more than expected, the team having to contend with locals with secrets and other people wanting to claim the glory for an important historical find.
Longstone incorporates an intriguing mystery as well as interesting historical snippets in the well written, multi layered plot. The setting of the Farne Islands and the roiling North sea have their part to play and I felt for Phillips having to brave the frightening power of the ocean. This is another exciting and well paced story line fraught with danger and intrigue.
The sympathetic secondary characters—in particular, Hutch and Gemma who run The Cockle Inn—play a pivotal role in a story that kept me guessing right up to the surprising reveal.
I love the main characters and how their stories have evolved. Ryan and Phillips are the perfect team, probably because they are complete opposites but play off each other extremely well, with Phillips often and unintentionally lightening the mood. It’s especially good to see Jack Lowerson back, even if he is a little subdued after his recent experiences, and of course, the gorgeous setting which is described in crisp and evocative detail.
Iain Tucker is an expert marine archaeologist based at Durham University. He’s been diving around the Farne Islands for a long time, convinced the wreck of a Viking longboat is down on the sea bed somewhere. When Doctor Anna Taylor-Ryan, a colleague, receives a call from Iain she arranges to meet him at The Cockle Inn, but Iain hasn’t turned up for the meeting and is nowhere to be found.
At the Northumbria Criminal Investigation Department, Ryan and his team are sent the details of an unidentified male who has washed up on the rocks at Longstone lighthouse in the outer group of the Farne Islands, made famous through the story of Grace Darling. This investigation uncovers much more than expected, the team having to contend with locals with secrets and other people wanting to claim the glory for an important historical find.
Longstone incorporates an intriguing mystery as well as interesting historical snippets in the well written, multi layered plot. The setting of the Farne Islands and the roiling North sea have their part to play and I felt for Phillips having to brave the frightening power of the ocean. This is another exciting and well paced story line fraught with danger and intrigue.
The sympathetic secondary characters—in particular, Hutch and Gemma who run The Cockle Inn—play a pivotal role in a story that kept me guessing right up to the surprising reveal.
I love the main characters and how their stories have evolved. Ryan and Phillips are the perfect team, probably because they are complete opposites but play off each other extremely well, with Phillips often and unintentionally lightening the mood. It’s especially good to see Jack Lowerson back, even if he is a little subdued after his recent experiences, and of course, the gorgeous setting which is described in crisp and evocative detail.
November 30, 2020
Another great audio book!
Great narrator, good story, I am loving Sergeant Phillips🤣.
I had guessed who the baddie was, but only because I am a suspicious trout.
Looking forward to listening to the next one when its available.
Great narrator, good story, I am loving Sergeant Phillips🤣.
I had guessed who the baddie was, but only because I am a suspicious trout.
Looking forward to listening to the next one when its available.
December 26, 2018
Crime mystery set at Seahouses and the Farne Islands, Northumberland
“..doing away with someone usually boils down to love, sex, jealousy, money or revenge.”
I can hardly believe that this it the 10th outing already for DCI Ryan, L J Ross’s detective. He tackles crime mostly in and around Northumberland, often with the help and support of his academic wife, Anna. Longstone can easily be read as a stand-alone although characters from the previous novels are all now well bedded in and there is a nice level of familiar banter, shared history and humour between them.
The author has turned her hand to researching the ins and outs of shipping and the processes involved in diving for shipwrecks and then recording and registering the findings. The Farne Island formation, and the oftentimes treacherous waters in the area, provide an excellent setting for archaeological investigation. And murder.
Iain Tucker worked at Durham University in the department of Marine Archaeology and he spent many years searching the waters around The Farne Islands for the wreck of a Viking Longboat. Diving secretly at night he was determined to discover the wreck. Anna and Iain are acquainted through work at the university and it is to her that he turns with his recently discovered find. He does not, however, have time to share the co-ordinates of the boat which he has discovered after so much effort before his body is found washed up. Dead.
At the Cockle Inn, just the previous day, Iain, who was lodging there whilst cruising the area in search of the missing longboat, made his announcement of the incredible find to the assembled locals over their pints. He generously bought a round of champagne for the assembled crowd. He just could not contain his excitement (doubtful, perhaps, that a high ranking academic would blabber such a find to all in sundry, or that he would actually go diving on his own at night in a turbulent sea …. but no matter, just go with the flow, no pun intended).
The publican and his lodger Gemma at the Cockle have already suffered a disappearance in the family. Hutch, who runs the pub, has always had a thing for Gemma – but Gemma and Kris, Hutch’s brother, were in a relationship way back in the 1990s, and almost as soon as she fell pregnant, Kris disappeared. There is almost a sense that Hutch wasn’t too heart-broken to see his brother disappear. The suspicion that he might have had something to do with the death niggles away. He generously offered Gemma and her son (his nephew) a home but his motivation wasn’t perhaps altogether altruistic.
When the Harbour Master’s body is found, DCI Ryan knows that he has to see the broader picture in order to find the killer. Why are people being killed and how do their deaths link to a wreck beneath the waves?
The novel bowls along and will appeal to fans of the DCI Ryan stable of crime mysteries. It is a quick and easy read. Setting, as usual, is distinctive. The title is taken from the still active Longstone Lighthouse, located in the outer group of The Farne Islands and famous for the wreck of the Forfarshire and Grace Darling’s role in rescuing survivors.
“..doing away with someone usually boils down to love, sex, jealousy, money or revenge.”
I can hardly believe that this it the 10th outing already for DCI Ryan, L J Ross’s detective. He tackles crime mostly in and around Northumberland, often with the help and support of his academic wife, Anna. Longstone can easily be read as a stand-alone although characters from the previous novels are all now well bedded in and there is a nice level of familiar banter, shared history and humour between them.
The author has turned her hand to researching the ins and outs of shipping and the processes involved in diving for shipwrecks and then recording and registering the findings. The Farne Island formation, and the oftentimes treacherous waters in the area, provide an excellent setting for archaeological investigation. And murder.
Iain Tucker worked at Durham University in the department of Marine Archaeology and he spent many years searching the waters around The Farne Islands for the wreck of a Viking Longboat. Diving secretly at night he was determined to discover the wreck. Anna and Iain are acquainted through work at the university and it is to her that he turns with his recently discovered find. He does not, however, have time to share the co-ordinates of the boat which he has discovered after so much effort before his body is found washed up. Dead.
At the Cockle Inn, just the previous day, Iain, who was lodging there whilst cruising the area in search of the missing longboat, made his announcement of the incredible find to the assembled locals over their pints. He generously bought a round of champagne for the assembled crowd. He just could not contain his excitement (doubtful, perhaps, that a high ranking academic would blabber such a find to all in sundry, or that he would actually go diving on his own at night in a turbulent sea …. but no matter, just go with the flow, no pun intended).
The publican and his lodger Gemma at the Cockle have already suffered a disappearance in the family. Hutch, who runs the pub, has always had a thing for Gemma – but Gemma and Kris, Hutch’s brother, were in a relationship way back in the 1990s, and almost as soon as she fell pregnant, Kris disappeared. There is almost a sense that Hutch wasn’t too heart-broken to see his brother disappear. The suspicion that he might have had something to do with the death niggles away. He generously offered Gemma and her son (his nephew) a home but his motivation wasn’t perhaps altogether altruistic.
When the Harbour Master’s body is found, DCI Ryan knows that he has to see the broader picture in order to find the killer. Why are people being killed and how do their deaths link to a wreck beneath the waves?
The novel bowls along and will appeal to fans of the DCI Ryan stable of crime mysteries. It is a quick and easy read. Setting, as usual, is distinctive. The title is taken from the still active Longstone Lighthouse, located in the outer group of The Farne Islands and famous for the wreck of the Forfarshire and Grace Darling’s role in rescuing survivors.
May 22, 2022
This is a 4.5 🌟 read rounded ⬆️ to 5 🌟.
October 17, 2024
10 inspektoriaus Rajeno detektyvas.
"– Pasakyk Filipsui, kad autųsi guminius batus, – pasakė Rajenas. – Važiuosime prie jūros."
Dar vienas autorės kūrinys, kuriame rasit nepaprasto grožio kampelį - Farno salas. Tačiau šį kartą tuo neapsiribota. Mane visiškai sužavėjo jūros gelmė. Detektyvas Rajenas ir jo komanda šioje dalyje ne tik vaikščios žemę, bet ir plauks jūroje. O dar jei ieškoma seniai dingusio vikingo drakaro.. Suintrigavau, tiesa?
"Ji pamanė, kad netinkamose rankose esanti galia gali sugadinti žmogų taip pat greitai, kaip rūdys suėda sidabrinį vikingų kalaviją."
Bet tie kas susipažinę su šia serija, tikrai žino, kad laukia ne tik kelionės, bet ir žmogžudystės. O viskas dar sudėtingiau, kai nusikaltimo vieta – keturiasdešimt penkių metrų gylyje po vandeniu. Man ši dalis viena geresnių. Veikėjai, jau tapę draugais pagyvina ir suteikia šiltumo, o humoras padeda į viską žiūrėti paprasčiau. Prisipažinsiu, tikrai nemaniau, kad žudikas bus būtent tas žmogus. Ar atspėsi kas jis?
"– Esu matęs ir blogesnių dalykų, – be ironijos atsiliepė Rajenas. – Mane visada nustebina, kokių ekstravagantiškų ir išradingų būdų žudyti suranda žmonės, bet kai įsigilini į esmę, priežastys ką nors nugalabyti dažniausiai būna meilė, seksas, pavydas, pinigai arba kerštas. "
🛥️4.0⚓
"– Pasakyk Filipsui, kad autųsi guminius batus, – pasakė Rajenas. – Važiuosime prie jūros."
Dar vienas autorės kūrinys, kuriame rasit nepaprasto grožio kampelį - Farno salas. Tačiau šį kartą tuo neapsiribota. Mane visiškai sužavėjo jūros gelmė. Detektyvas Rajenas ir jo komanda šioje dalyje ne tik vaikščios žemę, bet ir plauks jūroje. O dar jei ieškoma seniai dingusio vikingo drakaro.. Suintrigavau, tiesa?
"Ji pamanė, kad netinkamose rankose esanti galia gali sugadinti žmogų taip pat greitai, kaip rūdys suėda sidabrinį vikingų kalaviją."
Bet tie kas susipažinę su šia serija, tikrai žino, kad laukia ne tik kelionės, bet ir žmogžudystės. O viskas dar sudėtingiau, kai nusikaltimo vieta – keturiasdešimt penkių metrų gylyje po vandeniu. Man ši dalis viena geresnių. Veikėjai, jau tapę draugais pagyvina ir suteikia šiltumo, o humoras padeda į viską žiūrėti paprasčiau. Prisipažinsiu, tikrai nemaniau, kad žudikas bus būtent tas žmogus. Ar atspėsi kas jis?
"– Esu matęs ir blogesnių dalykų, – be ironijos atsiliepė Rajenas. – Mane visada nustebina, kokių ekstravagantiškų ir išradingų būdų žudyti suranda žmonės, bet kai įsigilini į esmę, priežastys ką nors nugalabyti dažniausiai būna meilė, seksas, pavydas, pinigai arba kerštas. "
🛥️4.0⚓
December 15, 2018
3.5 stars.
L.J. Ross didn't disappoint with this surprise installment of the DCI Ryan series. The mystery was well-conceived (although this wasn't the first story with the same exact twist) and the Northumberland details were lovely. I also liked how she deftly wove all of the different characters: Ryan and Anna, MacKenzie and Phillips, Jack and Yates, into the storytelling as well. While this wasn't a perfect story (honestly, I could do with one installment that doesn't have someone hitting on Ryan or noticing how handsome he is), I enjoyed it nonetheless and will happily read whatever comes next.
L.J. Ross didn't disappoint with this surprise installment of the DCI Ryan series. The mystery was well-conceived (although this wasn't the first story with the same exact twist) and the Northumberland details were lovely. I also liked how she deftly wove all of the different characters: Ryan and Anna, MacKenzie and Phillips, Jack and Yates, into the storytelling as well. While this wasn't a perfect story (honestly, I could do with one installment that doesn't have someone hitting on Ryan or noticing how handsome he is), I enjoyed it nonetheless and will happily read whatever comes next.
December 16, 2018
'Longstone' is book 10 in the astounding DCI Ryan series by the brilliant Louise Ross. This mystery series is absolutely one of the best out there and I highly recommend it to all lovers of crime fiction. Once again, in this book, the author has taken me to an enchanting spot in Northumberland, this time to one of the natural highlights of the Northumbrian coast - the Farne Islands.
The day after claiming to have made the discovery of a lifetime - the wreck of an ancient Viking longboat - the body of an expert marine archaeologist is found washed up on the rocks at the foot of Longstone lighthouse. Was it an unfortunate accident, a suicide possibly, or did someone hear of the discovery and wanted to keep the treasure for themselves? DCI Ryan and his team are called in to the village of Seahouses to start the investigation. They start from the family running the inn where the man had rented a room and it's soon apparent that not everything is as it seems. There are tensions and currents beneath the surface and echoes of an old mystery can be strongly felt. Ryan is aware that the small village is a magnet for many salvage divers and marine archaeologists, all keen to explore and loot the wreck, so he knows that the possible suspects may be numerous. When a brutal murder takes place soon after in the streets of Seahouses, Ryan must first determine whether the two deaths are connected or not in order to catch the killer.
Well, I really had a great time reading this book and I think Longstone is actually one of my favourites in the series so far. I absolutely loved the setting of the story and I could clearly visualise the small fishing village with its harbour, the rough seas around the islands, the seabed peppered with old shipwrecks, the islands home to many birds and seals, and the boats fighting the huge waves as they come crashing down on the rocks at the foot of the lighthouse. One thing I love in this series in general, apart from the beautiful, vividly described locations, is the author's ability of mixing and balancing drama, humour and romance throughout. In this book, the author gives us an interesting insight on what goes on in wreck salvage operations.
Thanks to her crisp, clear writing and the mystery she has so cleverly woven in the plot, the author kept me glued to my kindle, entertained and interested till the end. I felt especially intrigued by the family running 'The Cockle Inn'. All members of this family seem to be hiding secrets. As I was reading, I had countless questions in my mind and I was desperate to have them all answered. Mostly, I wanted to know who the killer was as I had a suspect in mind from the very beginning and I was curious to find out if I would be proved correct or not by the end. Well, I'm not saying anything more other than the author left me open-mouthed more than once by the time I read the last chapter. One shocking surprise after the other!
With a picturesque setting, fantastic lifelike, intriguing characters, a well-thought out plot and an engrossing mystery that keeps you guessing till the end, Longstone is an outstanding addition to the series and I highly recommend it. Fantastic book!! Well done to the author!
With thanks to the author for a review copy of the book which I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
The day after claiming to have made the discovery of a lifetime - the wreck of an ancient Viking longboat - the body of an expert marine archaeologist is found washed up on the rocks at the foot of Longstone lighthouse. Was it an unfortunate accident, a suicide possibly, or did someone hear of the discovery and wanted to keep the treasure for themselves? DCI Ryan and his team are called in to the village of Seahouses to start the investigation. They start from the family running the inn where the man had rented a room and it's soon apparent that not everything is as it seems. There are tensions and currents beneath the surface and echoes of an old mystery can be strongly felt. Ryan is aware that the small village is a magnet for many salvage divers and marine archaeologists, all keen to explore and loot the wreck, so he knows that the possible suspects may be numerous. When a brutal murder takes place soon after in the streets of Seahouses, Ryan must first determine whether the two deaths are connected or not in order to catch the killer.
Well, I really had a great time reading this book and I think Longstone is actually one of my favourites in the series so far. I absolutely loved the setting of the story and I could clearly visualise the small fishing village with its harbour, the rough seas around the islands, the seabed peppered with old shipwrecks, the islands home to many birds and seals, and the boats fighting the huge waves as they come crashing down on the rocks at the foot of the lighthouse. One thing I love in this series in general, apart from the beautiful, vividly described locations, is the author's ability of mixing and balancing drama, humour and romance throughout. In this book, the author gives us an interesting insight on what goes on in wreck salvage operations.
Thanks to her crisp, clear writing and the mystery she has so cleverly woven in the plot, the author kept me glued to my kindle, entertained and interested till the end. I felt especially intrigued by the family running 'The Cockle Inn'. All members of this family seem to be hiding secrets. As I was reading, I had countless questions in my mind and I was desperate to have them all answered. Mostly, I wanted to know who the killer was as I had a suspect in mind from the very beginning and I was curious to find out if I would be proved correct or not by the end. Well, I'm not saying anything more other than the author left me open-mouthed more than once by the time I read the last chapter. One shocking surprise after the other!
With a picturesque setting, fantastic lifelike, intriguing characters, a well-thought out plot and an engrossing mystery that keeps you guessing till the end, Longstone is an outstanding addition to the series and I highly recommend it. Fantastic book!! Well done to the author!
With thanks to the author for a review copy of the book which I voluntarily accepted to read and review.
September 20, 2023
#perskaičiau
L.J.Ross "Longstounas"
Labai sunku pasakyti ką nors naujo apie knygų seriją, kuri visada puiki 🤭
Atrodo kaskart norėtųsi pasakyti kažką kito, tačiau visos L.J.Ross knygos nukelia skaitytoją į begalo gražias vietoves, atskleidžia istorijos ir kultūros subtilybes ir neabejotinai įpainioja į įdomaus siužeto tyrimą. Tad daugžodžiauti tiesiog nėra apie ką, knygą reikia imti, skaityti ir mėgautis 😍 Nes būtent taip nutiko ir man 😍
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
L.J.Ross "Longstounas"
Labai sunku pasakyti ką nors naujo apie knygų seriją, kuri visada puiki 🤭
Atrodo kaskart norėtųsi pasakyti kažką kito, tačiau visos L.J.Ross knygos nukelia skaitytoją į begalo gražias vietoves, atskleidžia istorijos ir kultūros subtilybes ir neabejotinai įpainioja į įdomaus siužeto tyrimą. Tad daugžodžiauti tiesiog nėra apie ką, knygą reikia imti, skaityti ir mėgautis 😍 Nes būtent taip nutiko ir man 😍
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
July 5, 2021
Mmmmm... speaking of red herrings... here we're given a totally wrong one!
I didn't like that the And that was revealed only at the end!!!!
I didn't like that the And that was revealed only at the end!!!!
March 24, 2021
Another enjoyable read, although getting a bit predictable.
April 25, 2024
Po paskutiniųjų trijų dalių, skaitydama šią dalį jaučiausi truputį nuobodžiaujanti. Atrodė, kad per daug viskas ištempta.
Nepaisant to, porą žmogžudysčių, daug painiavos, kas visiškai susuko galvą ir negalėjau net įtarti kas gi tas žudikas.
Apibendrinant ši autorė man patinka, kaip ir pagrindinis veikėjas detektyvas Ryan bei jo komanda 😍 Smagu, kai knygoje ne tik nagrinėjamos žmogžudystės, bet ir nemažai juokelių tarp draugų ir kolegų. Skaitydama 10 dalį jaučiuosi kaip komandos dalis, visus gerai pažįstanti 😁
Sekanti dalis “Ligoninė”. Nekantrauju pradėti, nes kaip buvo minėta, ši knyga yra visa ko priešistorė. Labai intriguoja👏
Nepaisant to, porą žmogžudysčių, daug painiavos, kas visiškai susuko galvą ir negalėjau net įtarti kas gi tas žudikas.
Apibendrinant ši autorė man patinka, kaip ir pagrindinis veikėjas detektyvas Ryan bei jo komanda 😍 Smagu, kai knygoje ne tik nagrinėjamos žmogžudystės, bet ir nemažai juokelių tarp draugų ir kolegų. Skaitydama 10 dalį jaučiuosi kaip komandos dalis, visus gerai pažįstanti 😁
Sekanti dalis “Ligoninė”. Nekantrauju pradėti, nes kaip buvo minėta, ši knyga yra visa ko priešistorė. Labai intriguoja👏
December 12, 2018
Nothing better than when a book in a series that you love is newly released and being able to read it straight away!
What I love about this authors books in particular is the settings. They are so descriptive and scenic and it reminds me just how many beauty spots we have here in England. Whilst many of us jet off to different countries, LJ Ross’ books make me want to go off and explore places that are for me, only a matter of a small number of hours to get to.
I absolutely loved this story line set in a coastal area that promises ship wrecks. I also really got into Gemma and Hutch’s background and was intrigued to read more. I liked both of them as characters and I like how the author allows the reader time to connect with them as well along with the main characters.
Even though this is the 10th in the series, I felt it read well as a stand alone. I love Ryan, Anna and Frank in particular and it feels comforting to have been on this journey with them throughout the series, so much so that they feel like old friends. They bring so much to the books with a dash of romance and humour in all the right places.
Longstone has to be one of my favourite books in the series. It had all I hoped for and more. The outcome actually nearly made me fall off my seat as I hadn’t seen it coming. I love it when an author totally hoodwinks me and the thrill of being taken by surprise. Brilliant book!
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
What I love about this authors books in particular is the settings. They are so descriptive and scenic and it reminds me just how many beauty spots we have here in England. Whilst many of us jet off to different countries, LJ Ross’ books make me want to go off and explore places that are for me, only a matter of a small number of hours to get to.
I absolutely loved this story line set in a coastal area that promises ship wrecks. I also really got into Gemma and Hutch’s background and was intrigued to read more. I liked both of them as characters and I like how the author allows the reader time to connect with them as well along with the main characters.
Even though this is the 10th in the series, I felt it read well as a stand alone. I love Ryan, Anna and Frank in particular and it feels comforting to have been on this journey with them throughout the series, so much so that they feel like old friends. They bring so much to the books with a dash of romance and humour in all the right places.
Longstone has to be one of my favourite books in the series. It had all I hoped for and more. The outcome actually nearly made me fall off my seat as I hadn’t seen it coming. I love it when an author totally hoodwinks me and the thrill of being taken by surprise. Brilliant book!
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
April 6, 2019
Enjoyable to the end.
I love the characters in this series of books....real people, with real lives. The story is never straight forward, and the culprit not easily discerned throughout.
It would be nice at the end of the book, for an explanation of certain things particular to the area to be explained though....as an Australian, I have no idea exactly what a “stottie” is, or other thing endemic to that geographical area.
I love the characters in this series of books....real people, with real lives. The story is never straight forward, and the culprit not easily discerned throughout.
It would be nice at the end of the book, for an explanation of certain things particular to the area to be explained though....as an Australian, I have no idea exactly what a “stottie” is, or other thing endemic to that geographical area.
November 26, 2023
Brilliant read. L J Ross keeps coming up with fascinating plots for Ryan and his team to solve.
December 22, 2018
Another gripping crime thriller from L J Ross.
Ryan and his team are called after a body is found washed up near Longstone.
Investigations reveal the person had been full of life the night before when he announced finding a Viking ship submerged under the sea. The next day his body is found.
A few days later another body is discovered and Ryan and the team have to find the link between the two people.
Frank is on hand to offer his insightful humour and I love the relationship with him and all the team.
I’m a real fan of this series and look forward to the next book.
Ryan and his team are called after a body is found washed up near Longstone.
Investigations reveal the person had been full of life the night before when he announced finding a Viking ship submerged under the sea. The next day his body is found.
A few days later another body is discovered and Ryan and the team have to find the link between the two people.
Frank is on hand to offer his insightful humour and I love the relationship with him and all the team.
I’m a real fan of this series and look forward to the next book.
February 25, 2019
I really liked this 10th L J Ross novel, same characters but a different setting to the last few. As usual, i didnt guess who dunnit!
March 6, 2019
I don't know if this series is very good or if at this point I'm so invested and in love with the characters that I can find nothing negative to say. I was surprised by the ending and loved the dialogues.
August 17, 2020
I love the narrator and the accents in these, the humour and of course, the story itself. I'm not alone, there's always a huge wait for the next one in the library.
November 15, 2020
Longstone is book ten in the DCI Ryan Mysteries by L. J. Ross. Doctor Anna Taylor local historian had a phone call from a friend asking for her opinion on a Viking treasure found near the fishing town of Seahouses. At first Doctor Anna Taylor was excited. However, that changed when on arrival at Seahouses, her friend body washed up on the beach. Doctor Anna Taylor called her husband, DCI Ryan. The readers of Longstone will continue to follow DCI Ryan to find out what happens.
Longstone is another enjoyable book to read in this fantastic series. I am unable to work or sleep soon as I open the first page of books in the DCI Ryan Mysteries and Longstone did not disappoint. I enjoy L. J. Ross writing style and the way she portrays her characters ensures that I engage with the plot of this book. Longstone was well written and researched by L. J. Ross. I like the description of the settings of Longstone that allowed me to imagine being part of the plot of this book.
The readers of Longstone will learn about the role of Coastguard for small coastal communities. Also, the readers of Longstone will learn about the world of shipwreck diving and marine archaeology.
I recommend this book.
Longstone is another enjoyable book to read in this fantastic series. I am unable to work or sleep soon as I open the first page of books in the DCI Ryan Mysteries and Longstone did not disappoint. I enjoy L. J. Ross writing style and the way she portrays her characters ensures that I engage with the plot of this book. Longstone was well written and researched by L. J. Ross. I like the description of the settings of Longstone that allowed me to imagine being part of the plot of this book.
The readers of Longstone will learn about the role of Coastguard for small coastal communities. Also, the readers of Longstone will learn about the world of shipwreck diving and marine archaeology.
I recommend this book.
November 24, 2025
Wow!! I bought this book during a holiday in beautiful Northumbria and a day on Holy Island. I am a lighthouse fan and picked this one up in a local bookshop after a friend recommended the series.
If you love Vera then this is the series for you.
I can totally imagine and get behind this series being made into a TV show.
The author describes this gorgeous and underrated county and its people with such love and affection.
While I grabbed this story because I love lighthouses and this novel takes the reader around and onto the Longstone Lighthouse and is a really good thriller, the plot does have spoilers from DCI Ryan's previous adventures. So be warned and I recommend starting at the beginning of this well written character's story with Holy Island (Book 1).
If you love Vera then this is the series for you.
I can totally imagine and get behind this series being made into a TV show.
The author describes this gorgeous and underrated county and its people with such love and affection.
While I grabbed this story because I love lighthouses and this novel takes the reader around and onto the Longstone Lighthouse and is a really good thriller, the plot does have spoilers from DCI Ryan's previous adventures. So be warned and I recommend starting at the beginning of this well written character's story with Holy Island (Book 1).
January 25, 2019
Thank you for another new Read #10 in the LJ. Ross mysteries this one leaves us with a good little page turner
I finished this book a few weeks ago but haven't been into Good reads to give a review.
We always look forward to a new book in the DCI Ryan Mysteries Series Longstone was well worth waiting for i don't think we will be waiting long for the next chapter in DCI Ryans mysteries
I finished this book a few weeks ago but haven't been into Good reads to give a review.
We always look forward to a new book in the DCI Ryan Mysteries Series Longstone was well worth waiting for i don't think we will be waiting long for the next chapter in DCI Ryans mysteries
November 4, 2021
Cred ca unul dintre cele mai fade romane din serie, nu a reusit sa vina cu nimic special, nici in cazul investigat, nici in viata personajelor. Mi s-a parut ca a fost scris grabit, sa fie la numar, total surprinzator fata de romanele anterioare, care au incercat sa aduca totusi ceva nou sau exotic.
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