Title: The Stone Circle
Author: Elly Griffiths
First published February 7, 2019
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.19
Overview
In Elly Griffiths’ gripping novel, The Stone Circle, we find ourselves once again alongside Ruth Galloway and DCI Nelson as they grapple with a new haunting case. DCI Nelson is under threat, receiving letters that eerily resemble ones from his past that have left him haunted for years.
Simultaneously, Ruth receives an unexpected letter from her former mentor, the very same person who drew her into working with Nelson. The only problem is, the author of the letters is dead.
Or is he? The past is closing in on Ruth and Nelson, and this time, it may be more dangerous than ever before.
Get ready for a chilling and suspenseful journey with The Stone Circle.
About the Author
Elly Griffiths’ novels featuring Ruth Galloway draw inspiration from her husband’s decision to leave his urban profession in order to become an archaeologist, as well as her aunt’s tales of the myths and legends surrounding the Norfolk coast. Elly, a mother of two, resides in close proximity to Brighton.
While not her initial literary endeavor, The Crossing Places represents her inaugural foray into the mystery genre.
Editoral Review
In her latest mystery novel, The Stone Circle, Elly Griffiths proves yet again why she is one of the most talented writers in the genre. Published in February 2019, The Stone Circle takes readers on a thrilling ride through the winding paths and eerie landscapes of Norfolk, England.
Elly Griffiths, a British author born in London, has written a number of well-regarded crime and mystery novels. She is best known for her Ruth Galloway series, in which an archaeology professor solves crimes while living in a remote region of Norfolk.
With The Stone Circle, Griffiths once again demonstrates her impressive ability to create vivid and complex characters and weave intricate plots that keep readers guessing until the very end. The Stone Circle follows Ruth Galloway as she investigates the murder of a young girl in a remote village called Black Dog Farm.
As she delves deeper into the case, Ruth discovers a series of baffling clues that seem to point to ancient rituals and beliefs. Desperate to solve the case and bring the killer to justice, Ruth teams up with DI Nelson, a rugged and determined detective who is also struggling with personal demons.
The novel is set against the dramatic backdrop of Norfolk’s rugged coastline and windswept hills, which Griffiths describes in loving detail. Throughout the story, she skillfully weaves together elements of ancient mythology, local folklore, and modern police work to create a gripping and suspenseful narrative.
One of the strengths of The Stone Circle is the depth and complexity of its characters. Ruth Galloway is a refreshingly unconventional protagonist, a middle-aged single mother who is smart, tough, and deeply passionate about her work.
DI Nelson, meanwhile, is a more traditional hero, a man haunted by the ghosts of his past who must work through his personal demons to solve the case. Griffiths also excels at crafting a plot that is both intricate and satisfying.
The clues and red herrings she provides keep readers guessing until the very end, while the twists and turns of the story are both surprising and believable. The pacing of the novel is excellent, with just the right balance between action and introspection.
If The Stone Circle has any flaws, it is perhaps that Griffiths occasionally relies too heavily on familiar tropes of the genre, such as the troubled detective with a drinking problem or the eccentric scientist who solves crimes by unconventional means. Nevertheless, these minor weaknesses are far outweighed by the novel’s many strengths.
Overall, The Stone Circle is a thrilling and satisfying mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. It is also a rich and rewarding exploration of ancient beliefs and modern police work, as well as a celebration of the rugged beauty of Norfolk’s wild landscapes.
Highly recommended for fans of the genre or anyone looking for a great read. Rating: 4.5/5
