Detective Jimmy Perez has left Shetland and is living in Orkney, in Kirkwall on the mainland, with his partner, Willow, and their son, James. As The Killing Stones opens, Jimmy has gone across the water to Westray to search for his mate, Archie, whose wife had reported him missing. Now Jimmy has rung Willow to tell her he has found Archie, dead, next to the apparent murder weapon, an ancient engraved stone which had been taken from the local museum.
Although Ann Cleeves describes Jimmy Perez as having the dark hair and complexion of his Spanish ancestors, I still prefer to think of the gorgeous Douglas Henshall while following Jimmy’s investigation. He was perfect at portraying Jimmy as taciturn, strong and determined, while holding reserves of warmth and sympathy. This case is difficult for Jimmy as he had grown up with Archie, and he and Willow are close to Archie’s widow, now wife, and sons. Willow, also a detective, becomes involved in the investigation despite being on maternity leave while awaiting the birth of her second baby which is expected to happen in six weeks.
The islanders can trace their history back to the time of the Norse invasions, and the stone which killed Archie has words engraved by Vikings over the original markings. There are many possible suspects for Jimmy to interview, including a minor celebrity who has made a television series about his studies of the ancient stone monuments on the island. As well as being a cracking good mystery story, this book has me wishing I could visit the Orkney Islands myself!
Ann Cleeves is, as usual, brilliant at setting scenes and invoking atmosphere. Jimmy and Willow are true to life, as are lots of other well drawn characters, including a man by the name of Miles Chambers, and there is a terrific build up of momentum towards a most satisfying conclusion.
Vintage Ann Cleeves!
No comments:
Post a Comment