Reviewed by Patricia Simms-Reeve
Of the millions of detective novels that have been written over time, one has to wonder which attributes determine the success of one, as opposed to another. Ann Cleeves has written forty or more very successful ones, and in the case of the Shetland and Vera series, they have become much loved television series too. Undoubtedly, she instinctively knows what appeals to the reader who continues to enjoy her work.
Firstly, she creates characters that are exceptional people in the world of crime. While intent on solving the puzzle, they bring to this an element of concern, understanding insight and, sometimes, kindness. In her latest, The Killing Stones, set in Orkney, we welcome the return of the much admired and loved, Jimmy Perez. He is faced with the murder of his dear friend making this case fraught with his own emotional turmoil. He has family that is vital to his happiness and is preoccupied with his relationship with Willow, his partner but also his boss. Four year old son, Jack, is precious to him and this is highlighted in an incident towards the end of the story.
Landscape plays an important role in her books. This is particularly so in the Shetland series when she describes the wild beauty of the islands off Scotland’s West Coast so vividly that one is tempted to go there in order to experience the wind, the cold and hypnotic charm of the area, just as some of the minor characters did! In the world today, the steady rhythm of the uncomplicated island life, free from the hypnotic grip of devices , has enormous appeal to many.
As with most novels, the plot is key to its success and in fact is paramount in the detective genre. Agatha Christie was a master of this but sometimes, to the reader’s’ chagrin, omitted significant clues until the very end.
In The Killing Stones, Ann Cleeves, like an accomplished weaver, places threads throughout which, when gathered together finally, provide the clear picture of her finished work. In this instance, she is so clever, that the exposé is completely unexpected, but nevertheless plausible. Therefore it is essential that the reader pay attention to every small detail, as they later will discover its significance.
This book also has the attraction of the Stones themselves, Neolithic artefacts that not only are employed as murder weapons but underline the historical importance of this part of the world. Fascinating facts emerge about them, which while interesting in themselves add atmosphere to the already gripping plot.
It is the behavioural psychology the author uses to create her characters that wins so many of her devoted fans. She does not dwell on the physical – eyes, hair colour, etc. Rather, she gives a sensitive description of their inner thoughts and feelings. Not only does this enhance the story but indicates her own deep understanding of the complexity of human beings. This is most obvious when the perpetrator is finally revealed.
This latest book by Ann Cleeves has so much to recommend it and cements the feeling that there is no reason to feel guilty pleasure when reading it. The Killing Stones is a fine example of detective fiction.
The Killing Stones
[2025]
by Ann Cleeves
Pan Macmillan
ISBN: 978 103504 316 3
$34.99; 362pp