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DCI Jacob Mysteries #1
The Fifth Grave
A stunning new crime thriller from #1 bestselling author Rob Jones.
Poised to return to work after a long bereavement leave, Detective Chief Inspector Jacob is called away from the sanctuary of his home to attend the grim discovery of human remains over a quarter of a century old. Found deep in woodland with its own grim history, they give little up, but he is soon confronted with local gossip of hauntings and witches.
The mystery deepens when a second person is murdered in the same woods, and Jacob soon realises he is hunting a killer who will stop at nothing to keep the darkest of secrets buried in the past. Working alongside Dr Sophie Anderson, a criminal psychologist with her own damaged past, they close the net until tragedy strikes again in this gripping romantic suspense thriller.
Set in the wild and beautiful Wiltshire Downs, The Fifth Grave is a fast-paced whodunit with a dash of humour and romance and a killer twist.
Poised to return to work after a long bereavement leave, Detective Chief Inspector Jacob is called away from the sanctuary of his home to attend the grim discovery of human remains over a quarter of a century old. Found deep in woodland with its own grim history, they give little up, but he is soon confronted with local gossip of hauntings and witches.
The mystery deepens when a second person is murdered in the same woods, and Jacob soon realises he is hunting a killer who will stop at nothing to keep the darkest of secrets buried in the past. Working alongside Dr Sophie Anderson, a criminal psychologist with her own damaged past, they close the net until tragedy strikes again in this gripping romantic suspense thriller.
Set in the wild and beautiful Wiltshire Downs, The Fifth Grave is a fast-paced whodunit with a dash of humour and romance and a killer twist.
- GenresMystery
457 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2019
110 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Rob Jones
65 books89 followersInternational bestselling author of twenty-five thrillers, including fourteen in the Joe Hawke action-adventure series and The Hunter Files. All available for the Amazon Kindle.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 1, 2019
An atmospheric and tense prologue, events that happened more than twenty five years previously, opened the story.
In the present, DCI Tom Jacob had left behind the horror his life had become in Oxford and returned to his late parents’ house in Wiltshire. He had been judged fit to return to work after an extended period of bereavement leave and was thrust straight into a cold case murder inquiry as SIO. The remains of a body had been discovered buried under, and tangled in the roots of, a beech tree in Grovely Wood. The metal detectorist who found the remains got a little more than he bargained for. The ring he uncovered was still attached to a skeletal finger.
That particular area of the wood was well known for the local legend of the four witches, thought to have been murdered and buried in the coppice generally named Four Sisters, with a beech tree marking each grave. The injuries on the skeleton also suggested murder and an item found with the body related to witchcraft.
When a second body was discovered in the same wood, Jacob had to determine whether the cases were related. Against express orders from his superior, whose doubt about his readiness to return to work seemed suspect, Jacob enlisted the help of criminal psychologist Dr Sophie Anderson who worked with the FBI and had helped to apprehend a serial killer at great personal risk. The investigation is hampered by sensationalism by the press, causing rumours to circulate about satanism and witchcraft in the area. Jacob hoped Sophie could help by profiling the killer.
I enjoyed this well thought through police procedural, by a new to me author. There are several unexpected twists leading to a great ending. The setting is wonderful and characters are well defined, especially Jacob who is very relatable and has a strong sense of purpose. I hope there’ll be more DCI Jacob mysteries.
In the present, DCI Tom Jacob had left behind the horror his life had become in Oxford and returned to his late parents’ house in Wiltshire. He had been judged fit to return to work after an extended period of bereavement leave and was thrust straight into a cold case murder inquiry as SIO. The remains of a body had been discovered buried under, and tangled in the roots of, a beech tree in Grovely Wood. The metal detectorist who found the remains got a little more than he bargained for. The ring he uncovered was still attached to a skeletal finger.
That particular area of the wood was well known for the local legend of the four witches, thought to have been murdered and buried in the coppice generally named Four Sisters, with a beech tree marking each grave. The injuries on the skeleton also suggested murder and an item found with the body related to witchcraft.
When a second body was discovered in the same wood, Jacob had to determine whether the cases were related. Against express orders from his superior, whose doubt about his readiness to return to work seemed suspect, Jacob enlisted the help of criminal psychologist Dr Sophie Anderson who worked with the FBI and had helped to apprehend a serial killer at great personal risk. The investigation is hampered by sensationalism by the press, causing rumours to circulate about satanism and witchcraft in the area. Jacob hoped Sophie could help by profiling the killer.
I enjoyed this well thought through police procedural, by a new to me author. There are several unexpected twists leading to a great ending. The setting is wonderful and characters are well defined, especially Jacob who is very relatable and has a strong sense of purpose. I hope there’ll be more DCI Jacob mysteries.
September 3, 2019
Wow what a book. It has been some time since I have picked up a book that has sucked me in quite as much as The Fifth Grave. I was hooked from the first page.Jones is a brilliant writer, he captivated me from the very first paragraph and kept me that way right until the last sentence. I loved The Fifth Grave. The setting was remarkable, the way Jones set his backdrop and created vivid images was so realistic that I felt that it is somewhere I could easily stumble upon.
His characters were all intriguing and I found myself drawn into the lives of not just the main character but the secondary characters too. I am desperate to see how things play out for Jacob, but also for the others on his team.
Unpredictably amazing
His characters were all intriguing and I found myself drawn into the lives of not just the main character but the secondary characters too. I am desperate to see how things play out for Jacob, but also for the others on his team.
Unpredictably amazing
May 21, 2019
THE FIFTH GRAVE, from prolific thriller and suspense author Rob Jones, is the first in the new DCI JACOB MYSTERY series. Wiltshire England Detective Chief Inspector Tom Jacob is a marvel: maverick, rule-breaker, a strong individual broken in spirit after the tragedy a year prior. After a sterling career on the London Metropolitan Police and the Thames Valley Division at Oxford, the tragic death of his fiancee and bereavement leave, he has returned to his childhood home, the Old Watermill, on the Wiltshire Downs. A trio of metal detector explorers out in the forest on Boxing Day (December 26) uncover a skeleton beneath a beech tree's roots. It proves to be a cold case, but Jacob and his team are determined to solve it: and then the new killings commence.
Consistently taut suspense, surprises, a shocking denouement and explosive ending contribute to a riveting and thought-provoking read.
Consistently taut suspense, surprises, a shocking denouement and explosive ending contribute to a riveting and thought-provoking read.
May 14, 2019
4.5 rounded up to 5
I do love me some UK police procedurals and this was right up my alley. Really enjoyed it and so looking forward to the rest in this series!
I do love me some UK police procedurals and this was right up my alley. Really enjoyed it and so looking forward to the rest in this series!
August 6, 2019
Tom Jacob recently lost his fiance died in a fire and is dealing with survivor’s guilt. He is been cleared to return to work but gets called out to the woods. It seems a metal detector discovered a ring attached to a skeletal finger. They uncover a body that is entangled in the roots of a beech tree and been there for about 25 years. These woods have a legend about four witches that were murdered and planted below a beech tree each. But a second body has everyone stirred up and Jacob has to determine if they bodies are related.
Although Jacob has been cleared to return to work his superiors don’t think he is ready and put lots of pressure on him to solve this case. Jacob called in criminal psychologist Sophie Anderson to help him determine if the killer is practicing dark magic or if it is something else entirely. It becomes a race to find the killer before more bodies are added to the count.
This is an amazing read. Jacob is a great detective that catches the smallest detail. Although he has been approved to return to work you can tell that he is still not over the dead of his fiancé. But a cold case murder and fresh bodies take center stage. Jacob calls in Dr. Anderson for her opinion and they hit it off. They work well together on the case and make a cute couple.
I was on the edge of my seat from the very beginning. There were twists and turns that kept me guessing and when I thought I might have an idea who the killer was I learned I was so very wrong.
This is the first book I have read from Rob Jones but it won’t be my last. If you are looking for a captivating police procedural you need to pick up this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Although Jacob has been cleared to return to work his superiors don’t think he is ready and put lots of pressure on him to solve this case. Jacob called in criminal psychologist Sophie Anderson to help him determine if the killer is practicing dark magic or if it is something else entirely. It becomes a race to find the killer before more bodies are added to the count.
This is an amazing read. Jacob is a great detective that catches the smallest detail. Although he has been approved to return to work you can tell that he is still not over the dead of his fiancé. But a cold case murder and fresh bodies take center stage. Jacob calls in Dr. Anderson for her opinion and they hit it off. They work well together on the case and make a cute couple.
I was on the edge of my seat from the very beginning. There were twists and turns that kept me guessing and when I thought I might have an idea who the killer was I learned I was so very wrong.
This is the first book I have read from Rob Jones but it won’t be my last. If you are looking for a captivating police procedural you need to pick up this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
August 10, 2019
The author usually writes a different genre, but this genre is one that fits him like a glove!
I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Not only because it was just great but also because of the writing style. It was so fluently written and I just loved everything about it.
The author has created a very likeable police team. Of course there has to be one person you don’t really like, but that makes it even more interesting. All the others were perfect and they worked well together.
It goes without a doubt that a team can only function when they have a good and strong leader. DCI Jacob is all of the above and what I also enjoyed was the fact that he has a history and that he is a maverick. He has the guts to go against his superiors when he feels they miss the mark.
I also loved the little jokes between the members. They are part of the glue to bring them closer together. Where there is laughter, there is a good atmosphere and that only improves the working relationships and leads to good results.
I hope this book is the start of a very long series! 5 stars.
Thank you, Rob Jones.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Not only because it was just great but also because of the writing style. It was so fluently written and I just loved everything about it.
The author has created a very likeable police team. Of course there has to be one person you don’t really like, but that makes it even more interesting. All the others were perfect and they worked well together.
It goes without a doubt that a team can only function when they have a good and strong leader. DCI Jacob is all of the above and what I also enjoyed was the fact that he has a history and that he is a maverick. He has the guts to go against his superiors when he feels they miss the mark.
I also loved the little jokes between the members. They are part of the glue to bring them closer together. Where there is laughter, there is a good atmosphere and that only improves the working relationships and leads to good results.
I hope this book is the start of a very long series! 5 stars.
Thank you, Rob Jones.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
January 30, 2021
I'm really glad that I chose this book to read as it turned out to be a very compelling read.
I am an ex Wiltshire lad myself and knew the areas that were central to the story that Rob Jones weaved in and around them. I also have family who were in the Police and knew a few more myself over the years so I was able to relate to this story pretty well throughout although this wouldn't be a necessary pre-requisite for enjoying the tale.
I like the characters that he has created and because of this I am now anxiously awaiting the next volume which I ordered earlier today.
The fact that I have barely put it down and became totally unaware of what was happening around me in respect of TV, Music etc. shows how fully immersed I became.
One element that made me smile was the weather, the description of it matched exactly that which we were experiencing outside as I took one of my few breaks from it.
The story wasn't predictable and you should probably expect to get most of the way through it before working out just who is guilty and guilty of what! (no spoilers from me)
A very good tale and highly recommended. Made me want to get back down to my childhood home in Wiltshire.
I am an ex Wiltshire lad myself and knew the areas that were central to the story that Rob Jones weaved in and around them. I also have family who were in the Police and knew a few more myself over the years so I was able to relate to this story pretty well throughout although this wouldn't be a necessary pre-requisite for enjoying the tale.
I like the characters that he has created and because of this I am now anxiously awaiting the next volume which I ordered earlier today.
The fact that I have barely put it down and became totally unaware of what was happening around me in respect of TV, Music etc. shows how fully immersed I became.
One element that made me smile was the weather, the description of it matched exactly that which we were experiencing outside as I took one of my few breaks from it.
The story wasn't predictable and you should probably expect to get most of the way through it before working out just who is guilty and guilty of what! (no spoilers from me)
A very good tale and highly recommended. Made me want to get back down to my childhood home in Wiltshire.
August 3, 2019
If there’s one thing that this Ginger Book Geek likes, it’s discovering new authors. Rob Jones is definitely a new author for me. Judging by how much I enjoyed reading ‘The Fifth Grave’, I will definitely be reading more of Rob’s work. I thoroughly enjoyed ‘The Fifth Grave’ but more about that in a bit.
What can I say about Detective Chief Inspector Jacob? To start with he is a bit of a mysterious figure. When the story starts, he is just about to go back to work following an extended period of compassionate/ bereavement leave. His partner died in a fire and he was deeply affected as you can perhaps imagine. He carries a great deal of guilt around with him because he is convinced that he was meant to die in the fire. He is called in ahead of his planned return to work to investigate the case of a body that has been found in the woods. Jacob is the sort of detective that you would want to investigate a case involving you or a member of your family or a close friend. Jacob is determined, stubborn, persistent, tenacious, strong, fair and he certainly doesn’t suffer fools gladly. He tolerates his superiors but I get the impression that whilst he might have a neutral look on his face, he is really thinking of slapping them silly with a wet fish or his internal monologue is saying very rude words. Jacob has a keen eye for detail and he has the knack of being able to spot the little details or clues or evidence that others would easily miss. Will Jacob manage to solve the case of the bodies in the forest? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out, as I am not going to tell you.
It took me a little while to get into this story but that has more to do with the fact that I was tired and not concentrating properly and it isn’t meant as a criticism of the author. However once I got into the story that was it- all plans had to be cancelled for the rest of the day (not that I had any exciting plans but the sentiment is the same) as I knew that I would find it very difficult to put the book down. So it proved to be. Reading ‘The Fifth Grave’ became an addiction and I was in desperate need of my next fix. If life got in the way and I had to put the book to one side for any reason, then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. Whilst I was reading, several questions formed in my head that could only be answered by continuing to read and getting deeper into the story. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I would still be sat there an hour later after having read a lot more than a couple of chapters. It didn’t seem to take me long to get to the end of the book which I was so disappointed about. I don’t mean that I was disappointed with how the story ended because that couldn’t be further from the truth but I was enjoying the author’s writing style, the characters and the storylines that much that I just wanted the book to continue.
‘The Fifth Grave’ is brilliantly written. The author certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start, he draws you into the story from the first word on the first page and he keeps your attention throughout the story. He writes so convincingly and describes thing so realistically that I felt as though I was Jacob’s sidekick and I was part of the story myself. I even found that I was trying to give him suggestions as to what to look at next or what to investigate next.
I just have one minor little correction to make. In this book, the author has referred to a ‘Criminal Records Bureau’ check which is the incorrect name for it. In December 2012, the ‘Criminal Records Bureau’ merged with the ‘Independent Safeguarding Authority’ to form the new ‘Disclosure & Barring Service’. The CRB check became a DBS check. How do I know this? Well in a previous work life I had the misfortune to work at the Independent Safeguarding Authority but that’s a whole different story for a different day. Anyway back to the review I do go. The incorrect name for the check is just needed a teensy weeny little correction and I know pointing it out might make me seem very picky or petty.
Reading this book was most definitely a pleasure and not a chore. There were twists and turns aplenty and several surprises along the way. I smugly thought that I had worked out who had done what, only to be sent a curveball and I realised that the real culprit was somebody else entirely. This book has a bit of everything within its pages. There’s drama in spades with a hint of romance and a dash of humour. This is one of those books that had me gripped throughout and it kept me on the edge of my seat all the way through the book.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Fifth Grave’ and I will most definitely be recommending this book to other readers. I can’t wait to read what Rob comes up with next. Here’s hoping that we don’t have too long to wait but whilst I wait I will definitely be reading Rob’s other books just as soon as I can. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
What can I say about Detective Chief Inspector Jacob? To start with he is a bit of a mysterious figure. When the story starts, he is just about to go back to work following an extended period of compassionate/ bereavement leave. His partner died in a fire and he was deeply affected as you can perhaps imagine. He carries a great deal of guilt around with him because he is convinced that he was meant to die in the fire. He is called in ahead of his planned return to work to investigate the case of a body that has been found in the woods. Jacob is the sort of detective that you would want to investigate a case involving you or a member of your family or a close friend. Jacob is determined, stubborn, persistent, tenacious, strong, fair and he certainly doesn’t suffer fools gladly. He tolerates his superiors but I get the impression that whilst he might have a neutral look on his face, he is really thinking of slapping them silly with a wet fish or his internal monologue is saying very rude words. Jacob has a keen eye for detail and he has the knack of being able to spot the little details or clues or evidence that others would easily miss. Will Jacob manage to solve the case of the bodies in the forest? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out, as I am not going to tell you.
It took me a little while to get into this story but that has more to do with the fact that I was tired and not concentrating properly and it isn’t meant as a criticism of the author. However once I got into the story that was it- all plans had to be cancelled for the rest of the day (not that I had any exciting plans but the sentiment is the same) as I knew that I would find it very difficult to put the book down. So it proved to be. Reading ‘The Fifth Grave’ became an addiction and I was in desperate need of my next fix. If life got in the way and I had to put the book to one side for any reason, then I would immediately look forward to being able to pick the book up again. Whilst I was reading, several questions formed in my head that could only be answered by continuing to read and getting deeper into the story. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I would still be sat there an hour later after having read a lot more than a couple of chapters. It didn’t seem to take me long to get to the end of the book which I was so disappointed about. I don’t mean that I was disappointed with how the story ended because that couldn’t be further from the truth but I was enjoying the author’s writing style, the characters and the storylines that much that I just wanted the book to continue.
‘The Fifth Grave’ is brilliantly written. The author certainly knows how to grab your attention from the start, he draws you into the story from the first word on the first page and he keeps your attention throughout the story. He writes so convincingly and describes thing so realistically that I felt as though I was Jacob’s sidekick and I was part of the story myself. I even found that I was trying to give him suggestions as to what to look at next or what to investigate next.
I just have one minor little correction to make. In this book, the author has referred to a ‘Criminal Records Bureau’ check which is the incorrect name for it. In December 2012, the ‘Criminal Records Bureau’ merged with the ‘Independent Safeguarding Authority’ to form the new ‘Disclosure & Barring Service’. The CRB check became a DBS check. How do I know this? Well in a previous work life I had the misfortune to work at the Independent Safeguarding Authority but that’s a whole different story for a different day. Anyway back to the review I do go. The incorrect name for the check is just needed a teensy weeny little correction and I know pointing it out might make me seem very picky or petty.
Reading this book was most definitely a pleasure and not a chore. There were twists and turns aplenty and several surprises along the way. I smugly thought that I had worked out who had done what, only to be sent a curveball and I realised that the real culprit was somebody else entirely. This book has a bit of everything within its pages. There’s drama in spades with a hint of romance and a dash of humour. This is one of those books that had me gripped throughout and it kept me on the edge of my seat all the way through the book.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Fifth Grave’ and I will most definitely be recommending this book to other readers. I can’t wait to read what Rob comes up with next. Here’s hoping that we don’t have too long to wait but whilst I wait I will definitely be reading Rob’s other books just as soon as I can. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
May 24, 2019
This is a DCI Jacob mystery and has the main character returning to work after a long leave due to a bereavement. He was due to start back in a week’s time, but a body has been found and he is asked to attend. He has been attending counselling and the psychologist advised he return to work, yet his boss thinks he shouldn’t have returned and isn’t ready to be back. He makes his attitude plain to Jacob’s and puts a lot of pressure on him to solve the murder.
The remains of a body is found in old woodland, locally well known for a folk tale of four witches, all sisters, being killed and buried under four trees. The body has been there for about twenty five years and has no identification. Of course, the local press has gotten hold of the witch’s tale and it makes for fabulous headlines and rumours. Matters escalate when another body is found, murdered, in the same area of the woods. Does this have any connection to the old murder victim being discovered, or is it an unrelated case?
This is what DCI Jacob has to find out and he wants the assistance of a criminal psychologist called Dr Sophie Anderson, who helped track a serial killer, at great danger to herself and has even worked with the FBI. Jacob thinks she can help discover if there is an actual dark magic link and help with a profile for the killer. The killer is desperately trying to keep an old secret hidden and those involved to be kept silent, no matter what means are required. The action ramps up with a great investigation, shown in good detail, with real life stops and starts, some clues and evidence being harder to find for such an old case.
Once the older victim is identified, there is more mystery added from her parent’s reactions and the father’s wish for revenge. The items found with the body add a demonic twist. There is a bit of a romance beginning with Jacob and Sophie and this is nice to see. It is handled well and isn’t too overpowering. The setting is very scenic and takes place in the midst of the Christmas holidays and the coming of a big storm. The twist of who is the killer and why they take the actions they do, was very well hidden and a wonderful surprise twist.
A fantastic police murder procedural, with a great main character and a team of efficient operatives within his police and CSI teams. A boss with ambitions and not much sympathy for Jacob, his handling of the case nor his bereavement. I loved this book and will look for some more books by this author, having not come across them before. It is a great recommendation for anyone who loves thrillers and murder mysteries. There will be a lot more stories with this character I hope. I received an ARC copy of this book from Hidden Gems and I have freely given my own opinion above.
The remains of a body is found in old woodland, locally well known for a folk tale of four witches, all sisters, being killed and buried under four trees. The body has been there for about twenty five years and has no identification. Of course, the local press has gotten hold of the witch’s tale and it makes for fabulous headlines and rumours. Matters escalate when another body is found, murdered, in the same area of the woods. Does this have any connection to the old murder victim being discovered, or is it an unrelated case?
This is what DCI Jacob has to find out and he wants the assistance of a criminal psychologist called Dr Sophie Anderson, who helped track a serial killer, at great danger to herself and has even worked with the FBI. Jacob thinks she can help discover if there is an actual dark magic link and help with a profile for the killer. The killer is desperately trying to keep an old secret hidden and those involved to be kept silent, no matter what means are required. The action ramps up with a great investigation, shown in good detail, with real life stops and starts, some clues and evidence being harder to find for such an old case.
Once the older victim is identified, there is more mystery added from her parent’s reactions and the father’s wish for revenge. The items found with the body add a demonic twist. There is a bit of a romance beginning with Jacob and Sophie and this is nice to see. It is handled well and isn’t too overpowering. The setting is very scenic and takes place in the midst of the Christmas holidays and the coming of a big storm. The twist of who is the killer and why they take the actions they do, was very well hidden and a wonderful surprise twist.
A fantastic police murder procedural, with a great main character and a team of efficient operatives within his police and CSI teams. A boss with ambitions and not much sympathy for Jacob, his handling of the case nor his bereavement. I loved this book and will look for some more books by this author, having not come across them before. It is a great recommendation for anyone who loves thrillers and murder mysteries. There will be a lot more stories with this character I hope. I received an ARC copy of this book from Hidden Gems and I have freely given my own opinion above.
January 23, 2020
This book isn't my usual genre, but I picked this up as part of a reading challenge for a Facebook group I'm in, where I had to read one of the admin's favourite books of 2019. Although the blurb describes this as a murder mystery/crime thriller, I think this was definitely more of a police procedural novel, and the focus was very much on our lead character Jacob and the dynamics among his team investigating the 1990s death of woman who's body is found in the present day in the Wiltshire Downs woodland.
What I liked:
This book was very gripping and there were times, particularly towards the end, where I was on the edge of my seat in anticipation. I thought I had figured out (or at least had a good idea of) the killer's identity, so I was shocked when the reveal was made and it wasn't who I thought it would be at all! The atmosphere the author created was incredibly tense and I really felt absorbed into the story.
Why not 5 stars?
As a lover of romance, I was kind of hoping that Jacob and Dr Sophie's relationship would play a bigger role in the story, but this was almost non-existent. Even putting the romance aside, Sophie played a much smaller role within the actual investigation than indicated in the blurb. We didn't hear much about her 'damaged past' and Jacob spent the vast majority of time investigating the murder with his police colleagues than with Sophie. I found that part of the blurb misleading, to be honest. Aside from that, there was a little too much emphasis on the police procedural side and not enough on the investigation of the family/friends of the deceased in my opinion, but that is entirely down to personal preference. I did like the aspect of not knowing if one of Jacob's colleagues was in on the crime though, which made a fun change from the murder mysteries I'm used to reading.
Overall I enjoyed this book a lot. It was gripping and tense and very different from my usual kind of read, though I wish there was a little more of what was promised in the blurb. I think anyone who enjoys British police procedurals will really enjoy this!
What I liked:
This book was very gripping and there were times, particularly towards the end, where I was on the edge of my seat in anticipation. I thought I had figured out (or at least had a good idea of) the killer's identity, so I was shocked when the reveal was made and it wasn't who I thought it would be at all! The atmosphere the author created was incredibly tense and I really felt absorbed into the story.
Why not 5 stars?
As a lover of romance, I was kind of hoping that Jacob and Dr Sophie's relationship would play a bigger role in the story, but this was almost non-existent. Even putting the romance aside, Sophie played a much smaller role within the actual investigation than indicated in the blurb. We didn't hear much about her 'damaged past' and Jacob spent the vast majority of time investigating the murder with his police colleagues than with Sophie. I found that part of the blurb misleading, to be honest. Aside from that, there was a little too much emphasis on the police procedural side and not enough on the investigation of the family/friends of the deceased in my opinion, but that is entirely down to personal preference. I did like the aspect of not knowing if one of Jacob's colleagues was in on the crime though, which made a fun change from the murder mysteries I'm used to reading.
Overall I enjoyed this book a lot. It was gripping and tense and very different from my usual kind of read, though I wish there was a little more of what was promised in the blurb. I think anyone who enjoys British police procedurals will really enjoy this!
August 3, 2019
An excellent, gripping read! A fabulous addition to the police procedural genre.
After a long period of bereavement leave, DCI Jacob - known to all as simply 'Jacob' - is on the verge of returning to work when he is thrown in at the deep end with the discovery of body. When it looks like a cold case, he and his team certainly have their work cut out - and then a second, more recent, body turns up. With pressure from the powers-that-be and a reputation as a bit of a maverick, Jacob has little evidence to go on so must dig deep to find out if what, if any, connections exists.
This is my first novel by Rob Jones and you can be sure it won't be my last. What a book! Whilst there are no obvious red herrings, I freely admit to being completely blindsided; I did have a suspect in mind but, boy, was I wrong! It's a very clever concept; the characters are many, varied and each one is interesting in their own way. Jacob's team is a good mix of capabilities and it all adds up to a crime mystery you can really get lost in, and a fantastic book! I'm so glad I chose to read this one, and have no hesitation in recommending to anyone who is really into crime - it's a thrilling and exciting novel and one which will get your brain working overtime! Definitely a five star read, no doubt about it.
After a long period of bereavement leave, DCI Jacob - known to all as simply 'Jacob' - is on the verge of returning to work when he is thrown in at the deep end with the discovery of body. When it looks like a cold case, he and his team certainly have their work cut out - and then a second, more recent, body turns up. With pressure from the powers-that-be and a reputation as a bit of a maverick, Jacob has little evidence to go on so must dig deep to find out if what, if any, connections exists.
This is my first novel by Rob Jones and you can be sure it won't be my last. What a book! Whilst there are no obvious red herrings, I freely admit to being completely blindsided; I did have a suspect in mind but, boy, was I wrong! It's a very clever concept; the characters are many, varied and each one is interesting in their own way. Jacob's team is a good mix of capabilities and it all adds up to a crime mystery you can really get lost in, and a fantastic book! I'm so glad I chose to read this one, and have no hesitation in recommending to anyone who is really into crime - it's a thrilling and exciting novel and one which will get your brain working overtime! Definitely a five star read, no doubt about it.
August 5, 2019
"For so long now, the girl up at Four Sisters had been their little secret, but now this man, this Jacob, was going to tell the world about her. He was going to throw light on the darkest night of their lives and when he did – how the cockroaches would scuttle away in all directions."
In Wiltshire Downs in Four Sisters Grove there has been a body uncovered that sets a chain of murders throughout the community. Deputy Chief Inspector Tom Jacob lost his fiance in a tragic fire last year and is heading up the case. His boss doesn't think he can handle it, but "he spent his career working hard to stop crime and violence and protect innocent people. Hiding away even after such a profound personal tragedy wasn’t in his nature."
This is an exciting, nail-biting thriller where the bodies are piling up and the police are scrambling to make sense of it. `
The characters are well-developed and interesting including the police, the forensic staff and the potential suspects. Jacob is a strong character who has a stubborn streak and doesn't often play by the book, but he gets results. His fellow officers are competent and respect his authority.
An enthralling crime novel that keeps the reader on their toes. A great start to a new series.
Thank you to Mr. Jones for giving me the opportunity to review this book without expectation of a positive review.
In Wiltshire Downs in Four Sisters Grove there has been a body uncovered that sets a chain of murders throughout the community. Deputy Chief Inspector Tom Jacob lost his fiance in a tragic fire last year and is heading up the case. His boss doesn't think he can handle it, but "he spent his career working hard to stop crime and violence and protect innocent people. Hiding away even after such a profound personal tragedy wasn’t in his nature."
This is an exciting, nail-biting thriller where the bodies are piling up and the police are scrambling to make sense of it. `
The characters are well-developed and interesting including the police, the forensic staff and the potential suspects. Jacob is a strong character who has a stubborn streak and doesn't often play by the book, but he gets results. His fellow officers are competent and respect his authority.
An enthralling crime novel that keeps the reader on their toes. A great start to a new series.
Thank you to Mr. Jones for giving me the opportunity to review this book without expectation of a positive review.
August 13, 2019
I like police procedurals, always have because I like the investigative and methodical method of these and this one is no different. It’s a solid detective story which is exactly what I look for in stories like this. The characters are well-written and while they have personal issues to deal with it is the investigation that is the focus of the story.
The investigation focuses on one area or woodland with a past that leads people to believe that the crimes in the book are connected to the occult. While this area is not ignored it also doesn’t overly dominate the story so it doesn’t go down a route that could be unbelievable and disrupt the flow of the story.
There were some twists and unexpected parts in the story which helped keep the pace flowing well. There was also a layer of creepiness when there were woodland scenes, particularly when it was one character on their own. I wasn’t there and even I was feeling jumpy.
There were backgrounds to the main characters that were not fully explored but being the first book in a series there is certainly plenty of space to cover these in later books.
Overall I really enjoyed this story, it kept me gripped at a time when I have a lot of other thing soccupying my head space so that was quite an achievement. I liked DCI Jacob and am intrigued to see what he does next.
The investigation focuses on one area or woodland with a past that leads people to believe that the crimes in the book are connected to the occult. While this area is not ignored it also doesn’t overly dominate the story so it doesn’t go down a route that could be unbelievable and disrupt the flow of the story.
There were some twists and unexpected parts in the story which helped keep the pace flowing well. There was also a layer of creepiness when there were woodland scenes, particularly when it was one character on their own. I wasn’t there and even I was feeling jumpy.
There were backgrounds to the main characters that were not fully explored but being the first book in a series there is certainly plenty of space to cover these in later books.
Overall I really enjoyed this story, it kept me gripped at a time when I have a lot of other thing soccupying my head space so that was quite an achievement. I liked DCI Jacob and am intrigued to see what he does next.
July 12, 2019
A man is a keen metal detectorist and hasn’t been around this part of the woods before. It is part of a historic site and there could be treasure. when he finds a gold ring but attached to a finger, it isn’t what he was anticipating. Tree roots have grown over the body and hence the police quickly know that this is a cold case- one from 26 years ago that was never solved. When the next morning there is another murder victim in this sleepy backwood there has to be a connection. DCI Jacob is just back from leave as he lost his fiancee in a fire. He is appointed SIO but his boss is unsure if he is really ready to be back. When he covertly brings in a criminal psychologist and things don’t add up from the old investigation Jacob finds he is juggling some rather dodgy balls and if things don’t go the right way it could be his that are on the line. There was something special about reading this book, that “je ne sais quois” that kept me turning the pages. A quality of writing, an excellent plot and well rounded characters. I liked Jacob and his tenacity in the face of adversity and his relationship with Sophie gave him that other side- one of being human and having feelings not “just” a man in a job. I very much look forward to the next two in the series.
October 5, 2019
Still coping with his grief, Detective Chief Inspector Jacob is called back to work early to deal with a body that has been found in nearby woods. It is determined the body has been there for over two decades, which leaves Jacob little to go on to find who the body is and why they are in the woods.
With the discovery of the body the locals are happy to put the body down to local witches and several eerie happenings in the woods.
When a second person is found dead, Jacobs realises the two cases are related, and he needs to step the investigation up to prevent more deaths.
An excellent read that will have you gripped from start to finish.
With the discovery of the body the locals are happy to put the body down to local witches and several eerie happenings in the woods.
When a second person is found dead, Jacobs realises the two cases are related, and he needs to step the investigation up to prevent more deaths.
An excellent read that will have you gripped from start to finish.
July 3, 2023
I’ve been meaning to read this series for a while as I really enjoy Rob Jones’ Joe Hawke and The Hunter Files series, and I finally got around to it.
The Dark Wiltshire murder series takes a different direction from the series I’ve mentioned above, and follow the exploits of DCI Jacob and his team as they investigate a series of grisly murders on their turf. The storyline is excellent, and the characters really likeable, but the thing I found most enjoyable about this book is the back stories of the characters and the layers that they have. There is also a theme running through of previous cases which teases more to come in future books. Really looking forward to the next instalment.
The Dark Wiltshire murder series takes a different direction from the series I’ve mentioned above, and follow the exploits of DCI Jacob and his team as they investigate a series of grisly murders on their turf. The storyline is excellent, and the characters really likeable, but the thing I found most enjoyable about this book is the back stories of the characters and the layers that they have. There is also a theme running through of previous cases which teases more to come in future books. Really looking forward to the next instalment.
August 7, 2019
Thanks to Sarah at Book on the Brightside Tours for my copy and invite to read the first in a new police procedural series, The Fifth Grave by Rob Jones, featuring DCI Tom Jacob.
Returning to work after a tragedy, Jacob is called in to investigate the discovery of a body, hidden deep under a tree, in a forest full of myths involving witches.
When another murder occurs in the same woods. Jacob realises he has a killer trying to hide a secret on his hands.
Simply known as 'Jacob', This new DCI is a bit of a troubled soul, with a past tragedy eating away at him, he's a bit of a mercenary and is not always on the same wavelength as his superiors. this in turn leads to the introduction of Dr. Sophie Anderson, a criminal psychologist, also with a broken past.
This is quite at atmospheric story, the 2 main protagonists gel brilliantly, and Rob Jones, weaves a very entertaining mystery.
Overall this is an excellent read and introduction to a new series, and for me, a new author in Rob Jones.
There are plenty of unexpected twists, and this is a very well written thriller set in a great location with some extremely likeable characters.
Highly Recommended.
4🔥🔥🔥🔥
Returning to work after a tragedy, Jacob is called in to investigate the discovery of a body, hidden deep under a tree, in a forest full of myths involving witches.
When another murder occurs in the same woods. Jacob realises he has a killer trying to hide a secret on his hands.
Simply known as 'Jacob', This new DCI is a bit of a troubled soul, with a past tragedy eating away at him, he's a bit of a mercenary and is not always on the same wavelength as his superiors. this in turn leads to the introduction of Dr. Sophie Anderson, a criminal psychologist, also with a broken past.
This is quite at atmospheric story, the 2 main protagonists gel brilliantly, and Rob Jones, weaves a very entertaining mystery.
Overall this is an excellent read and introduction to a new series, and for me, a new author in Rob Jones.
There are plenty of unexpected twists, and this is a very well written thriller set in a great location with some extremely likeable characters.
Highly Recommended.
4🔥🔥🔥🔥
August 12, 2024
A good read
This is the first book I have read of this author and it was very enjoyable from the first page to the last. I liked the main characters in the story. They gelled well together and the plot was interesting enough for me to read in one sitting, I simply couldn't put it down as I was so caught up in the writing and had to know how it ended.
If this is your genre, my recommendation is you give this author a go. I have certainly found another series I'm looking forward to reading. Book 2 is my next read and book 3 is on preorder. Bravo Mr. Jones. A job well done.
This is the first book I have read of this author and it was very enjoyable from the first page to the last. I liked the main characters in the story. They gelled well together and the plot was interesting enough for me to read in one sitting, I simply couldn't put it down as I was so caught up in the writing and had to know how it ended.
If this is your genre, my recommendation is you give this author a go. I have certainly found another series I'm looking forward to reading. Book 2 is my next read and book 3 is on preorder. Bravo Mr. Jones. A job well done.
January 8, 2019
I love a good police suspense/procedure/thriller and this did not disappoint. The first in what I hope to be a a long series for DCI Jacob.
The characters were likeable and realistic. I really enjoyed what I felt was quite an original storyline , I can normally pick out the baddy quite early on but I definitely didn’t see this one coming!
I’ve not read any of Jones’ other work but from what looks to be his first police mystery I’m impressed and most definitely hooked!
The characters were likeable and realistic. I really enjoyed what I felt was quite an original storyline , I can normally pick out the baddy quite early on but I definitely didn’t see this one coming!
I’ve not read any of Jones’ other work but from what looks to be his first police mystery I’m impressed and most definitely hooked!
May 23, 2019
This was my first time reading a book by this author. It took me a while to get into it and to familiarize with UK Police titles and get used to British English. But once the story picked up I couldn’t stop reading! I really liked the setting and storyline was well-written with developed characters. It was a mix of detective story with good twists and some action and adventure.
Some things were left unresolved so I’m looking forward to read more about DCI Jacob.
Some things were left unresolved so I’m looking forward to read more about DCI Jacob.
June 9, 2019
I think this was a really good book, and it kept me intrigued from start to finish. My only criticism is that some of the supposedly casual dialogue between Jacob and others involved with the case reads more like a lecture on statistics and procedure than something you would actually say in a normal conversation between two people. It created stilted scenes and pulled me out of the story, which was unfortunate, but other than that, I really enjoyed it.
4 stars
4 stars
February 20, 2019
The fifth grave
This book was excellent I could not put it down. I stayed up all night reading it I love all your books they are fantastic. I am going to more of your books from your other series please continue to keep writing!
This book was excellent I could not put it down. I stayed up all night reading it I love all your books they are fantastic. I am going to more of your books from your other series please continue to keep writing!
February 26, 2019
Good reading
I found this to be a very good read. There was a strong sense of place in terms of how the reader was given a picture of the Wiltshire Downs - beautiful yet also remote and bleak. There were enough twists to the plot to keep me interested.
I found this to be a very good read. There was a strong sense of place in terms of how the reader was given a picture of the Wiltshire Downs - beautiful yet also remote and bleak. There were enough twists to the plot to keep me interested.
March 7, 2020
A chilling Wiltshire crime thriller, and that's exactly what it is, from the first page to the last, with brilliant characters who you feel you know, because they are written so well, this is certainly an author to remember, it's a great book.
March 25, 2023
Having been brought up in the area it was easy to relate to this. My father was also a Wiltshire copper in the 60s, 70s, early 80s and I could see him and some of his colleagues in this.
It is a well crafted tale and I am so looking forward to the next in the series (please)
It is a well crafted tale and I am so looking forward to the next in the series (please)
June 12, 2023
Phew! What a Fantastic Rollercoaster of a Read!
This is a real page turner of a read! The characters are very well drawn and very believable! Brilliantly written and developed and it kept me enthralled to the very last page.
This is a real page turner of a read! The characters are very well drawn and very believable! Brilliantly written and developed and it kept me enthralled to the very last page.
February 23, 2019
An exciting and thrilling read
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, different from Robs usual books but still written really well am looking forward to the next instalment
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, different from Robs usual books but still written really well am looking forward to the next instalment
December 9, 2019
*** I received an ARC of this book, and I review how, when and where I choose to***
DCI Jacobs is returning to active duty after a devastating personal loss. Little does he know his next case will not only involve a horrific murder from a quarter of a century before, but a string of present day occurrences that take his investigation in unexpected directions.
This story drew me in with a riveting prologue, and kept the hits, twists, and turns going throughout the book all the way to the end. Crisp writing, fluid pace, and some interesting characters added to the fun. I would be interested in reading other books in this series to follow the development of the characters' lives and stories.
DCI Jacobs is returning to active duty after a devastating personal loss. Little does he know his next case will not only involve a horrific murder from a quarter of a century before, but a string of present day occurrences that take his investigation in unexpected directions.
This story drew me in with a riveting prologue, and kept the hits, twists, and turns going throughout the book all the way to the end. Crisp writing, fluid pace, and some interesting characters added to the fun. I would be interested in reading other books in this series to follow the development of the characters' lives and stories.
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