Holy Island

Author: Ross, LJ

Crime & mystery

Published on 8 January 2026 by Cornerstone (Penguin (Cornerstone)) in the United Kingdom as part of 'The DCI Ryan Mysteries' series.

Paperback | 496 pages
196 x 130 x 39 | 426g

FROM THE MULTI-MILLION-COPY BESTSELLING AUTHORGet ready to be gripped by the thrilling first instalment of the bestselling DCI Ryan murder mystery series, the perfect mix of crime, humour, and a touch of romance for fans of Elly Griffiths and Ann Cleeves. 'She keeps company with the best mystery writers' - The Times'Holy Island is a blockbuster' - Daily Express'A literary phenomenon' - Evening Chronicle---------------------------------------------On the spectacular Northumbrian island of Lindisfarne, a killer is hiding in plain sight… Forced to take leave from his duties as a homicide detective, Detective Chief Inspector Ryan seeks sanctuary on Holy Island.

But just a few days before Christmas, he is thrust back into the murky world of murder when a young woman is found dead amongst the ancient ruins of the nearby Priory.

When former local girl Dr Anna Taylor arrives on the island as a police consultant, old memories swim to the surface making her confront her difficult past.

She and Ryan struggle to work together to hunt a deadly killer, while pagan ritual and island politics muddy the waters of their investigation.

Can they overcome their differences before the killer strikes again? ---------------------------------------------Readers LOVE Holy Island... 'Superbly written. Well thought out plot and in-depth knowledge of the location made this a must read book. Can't wait for the next one.' 5-star reader review'Brilliant, fantastic, many more words I could say. This book was totally gripping from start to finish and the ending had me mentally saying 'oh no what next'. Can't wait for her next book.' 5-star reader review'I have never been to Lindisfarne but will definitely plan to go after reading this book. I enjoyed it tremendously, with enough pace and story telling to keep me engrossed. What an imagination!' 5-star reader review'I couldn't put this book down from the minute I picked it up! A great mix of thriller, romance, intrigue with a hint of humour.' 5-star reader review'I love a crime novel and this one did not disappoint! Great twists and turns and good ending. Looking forward to the next one.' 5-star reader review'Great page turner, with a lively plot that holds numerous twists and turns; keeps you guessing until the very end. Fab new author - well done!' 5-star reader review