Holy Island: A DCI Ryan Mystery (The DCI Ryan Mysteries)

Ryan is recovering from mental health issues at Holy Island when a young woman is found dead on a ceremonial place. Although on leave from the force he assumes the investigation which is soon spiral out of control with two other murders happening on the once very peaceful island. Surprisingly he'll find romance where is totally unexpected and he'll also discover that there's a lot going on behind the scenes in the island, as pagan worshipping and ancient rituals are commonplace. Holy Island has a surprising end and provides a great teaser for the next books to come in this series. I thank the author, her publisher, and NetGalley for the copy of this book.

My only experience reading a novel by LJ Ross is the novel “The Imposter” that is the introduction of Alexander Gregory thrillers. I loved everything about that book. I was expecting a similar experience with “Holy Island” (DCI Ryan’s first book). Close. But not quite the same. Do not get me wrong, this is a really good novel. I just struggled to get into DCI Ryan as well as I did Alexander Gregory. This book was written before then, so it may be that LJ Ross tightened how she wanted to portray her protagonist. Or maybe, she wanted DCI Ryan to be more “complicated”. The mystery is so well written. The author takes the time to let you get to know each key character in the novel. LJ Ross is a strong writer, and I believe she could write anything and make it interesting. I’m looking forward to the second book in this series to see how the characters progress.

A bit repetitive. Transparent romance. Imaginative main storyline. Complex characters in a creatively described environment. Standard negative images of religious people.

Yes, like other reviews mention, there is some misogyny and the main characters are physically perfect.... But they are complex individuals with past trauma so we root for them to figure out their baggage and solve the murders. Found this author while on holiday in Northumberland and having visited Lanisfarne which made the novel extra special. Couldn't put it down and will absolutely read more in the series.

This is a good read with some surprises and interesting characters. Took me a while to get into it but was hooked about halfway through. The North East of England has become a hotbed of Crime Writing with authors such as Ann Cleeves (Vera stories), Mari Hannah and Howard Linskey. A bit like "Nordic Noir" but in England instead of Scandanavia. Northumbria is a beautiful area with amazing places such as Holy Island the location of this book. Over a thousand years of history from the Romans, through Venerable Bede to the present day can be found in places such as Hadrians Wall (inspiration for the wall in Game of Thrones) Lindisfarne and Durham Cathedral. I recommend reading "The King of the North" by Max Adams as a way to get a sense of the history. Also the central character in Bernard Cornwell's Saxon Chronicles comes from Bamburgh Castle.

Definitely will be reading the series. Fast paced, well written and keeps you on the edge of your seat! Awesome!

Interesting story taking place is a wild and wooly environment. Good characters of both scary and kind versions although some are surprises. Enjoyed this new detective story - Ryan is a good character.

When Amazon sent me a "books recommended for you" alert and "Ryan's Christmas" was on the list I clicked on it and found that is was the 15th book in the DCI Ryan Mystery series by L.J. Ross. Did I really want to start a new series since I read so many now (Louise Penny, William Kent Krueger just to name a few authors I read)? Okay so I bought "Holy Island" the 1st in the series on March 5, 2020. Today is May 16th and I am now starting "The Infirmary" #11 in the series. In my opinion this is one of the best (if not the BEST) series of all time. DCI Ryan and all the main characters are so well described and they get more complex as the series evolves. I have #12 on my "to read" pile, #'s 13 and 14 ordered and #'s 15 and 16 on my wish list...soon to be ordered. So far the series is up to #16 and I hope there are many more to come. L.J. Ross is a master at delivering the goods. At least 2 of the books I read in one sitting. READ THIS SERIES !!!!!!!

Likeable inspector, good plot, clean language. Was upset I had no new detective series but now I've found it!

I enjoy a good detective story and this fulfilled my expectations. The characters are well thought out and the plot keeps you on your toes throughout. The second book in the series is just as unputdownable and I am looking forward to sitting down, with a cup of tea and a few biscuits with the third.

I've just finished reading this book and I thoroughly enjoyed it in a "couldn't put it down" sort of way. I would recommend this book and I've just bought the next three DCI Ryan Mysteries.

A police officer getting whacked over the head, the girl getting rescued in the nick of time. It was so predictable, I found it hard to continue reading, which was a novel experience. Not a series I will continue, despite the rather good cliffhanger

I’d forgotten how much I love this series so to have the opportunity to go back to book 1, well I jumped at it. The first introduction to DCI Ryan and this book is an absolute cracking read, full of atmosphere and mystery with horrific crimes and a plot that keeps you guessing. I’d remembered how good it was but had forgotten how good it was. If you’ve not read any of this series I’d highly recommend starting at the beginning you get a real feel for the characters. Can’t wait to start in book 2 now 😀