A Dangerous Fossil

Title: A Dangerous Fossil

Author: John J Delaney

Genre: Mystery, thriller, crime

Date Published: 2022

Book Length: 396

Format: E book supplied by the author in return for an honest review

Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend

About Book: Fossils aren't dangerous, are they? Jemma didn't think so. When 'Jurassic' Jemma Thorne and her dog, Dino, find an incredible fossil on a Dorset beach, she doesn't realise that it will lead to a trail of greed, jealousy and murder. As the guilt of her past comes back to haunt her, Jemma must fight to protect her family, her friends, her town and herself. Can she overcome her demons and escape from the danger surrounding her?

My Thoughts: A Dangerous Fossil by John J. Delaney is a gripping mystery thriller set along the stunning Jurassic Coast and the first in The Jurassic Jemma Mysteries series. As someone who loves the Jurassic coastline, my expectations were high—and they were exceeded.

The pacing starts steady as the richly drawn characters and fascinating fossil lore unfold, pulling me in. The mystery weaves through the narrative like a triffid, slowly closing in on its prey. One standout moment is the witty quote: “Seagulls waddled around like slightly obese men in grey suits with their hands clasped behind their backs.” I’ll never look at seagulls the same way again!

Jemma, the protagonist, is layered and relatable, her backstory revealed in intriguing fragments that hint at more to come in the series. The vivid descriptions of the Dorset coastline transported me directly into the story, making me feel part of the unravelling mystery. Twists, turns, and sharp insights into themes of greed and jealousy kept me glued to the pages.

In conclusion, A Dangerous Fossil is more than a mystery—it’s a story of greed and  jealousy. With unforgettable characters, vivid settings, and a thrilling plot, this book is a must-read. Be prepared to stay up all night—I couldn’t put it down!