EditorIn a positive new review published in Indies Today, Nicky Flowers analyzes Hessman’s Necklace, the new mystery by author Nicholas Litchfield. Flowers describes the novel as “a snarky crime-noir with a decadent streak,” capturing the essence of its protagonist, Ray Stokes, whose “gruff, lecherous, and rude” personality embodies the gritty aesthetics of the genre.
Highlighting Litchfield’s skillful storytelling, the reviewer notes, “Ray doesn’t call the shots, but he’s still a bad guy—no question.” This nuanced portrayal invites readers to root for a character whose moral compass is as questionable as the schemes he undertakes. As Ray embarks on a dangerous mission to retrieve Hessman’s necklace, the dynamic between him and Merriam Woodcroft adds depth to the narrative, with Flowers remarking that “her character’s secrecy adds another layer to the mystery surrounding the necklace and the church’s dubious sanctum.”
Furthermore, Flowers praises the intricate blend of historical and cultural references embedded in the prose, stating that “the storytelling includes such reverence for Walter’s beloved fictional artifacts that you’ll believe Ray is truly on the verge of finding a long-lost piece of verifiable history.”
Overall, Hessman’s Necklace is described as a “rough-and-rowdy ride with a shiny 1950s sheen,” encapsulating Litchfield’s ability to revitalize the crime noir genre.
This 4-star review was published on July 3, 2025. You can find the complete analysis at this link: https://indiestoday.com/hessmans-necklace-by-nicholas-litchfield/.
