The Burial Place, Stig Abell (Review by Stacey Lorenson)

Jake Jackson, the handsome, introverted part-time investigator makes his third appearance in The Burial Place by Stig Abell. The former London detective has relocated to a rural area in England and soon becomes involved in an investigation of a murdered priest who is connected to an archeological dig. After an attempt on Jakes life and several other murders all seemingly connected the dig site, Jake calls on his ex-partner and several friends connected to the police force to help solve this mystery before someone else is hurt again. Readers are immersed in the small intimate group of friends that surround Jake and his girlfriend, Lavia. The setting, the English countryside, is idyllic and atmospheric, serving as an abrupt contrast to the unsettling events happening to the archaeologists at the historical burial site. Who is responsible for the threatening letters sent demanding the archeologists stop digging? Is it the same person assaulting and killing those associated with the dig? I enjoyed the consistent pacing of this small town, murder mystery. The protagonist is very humble and low key, which I find endearing, not like the usual egotistical male trope that plagues the mystery-suspense genre. The sub plot helps to elevate Jakes character revealing a vulnerable side as he and Livia deal with the emotional pitfalls of infertility. The male narrative of fear, disappointment and helplessness associated with this subject was an interesting addition to the story. I appreciated the Jake’s multidimensional character as not only a respected investigator but a divorced father, admired friend, and devoted partner. The Burial Place is like a breath of fresh air and will appeal to fans of Anthony Horowitz, Laura Lippman and Lucey Foley. The Burial Place will be available in August 2025.