12 Days to Launch: What Critics Are Saying About The Jacklighter
With 12 days to go until The Jacklighter launches on Oct. 27, I wanted to gather this whole season of reviews in one place, because it’s been a lot to take in, in the best way 🥹
Five professional reviewers have now read the book (with one more coming). Each brought a different lens, and each found something I hope readers will find: the people at the heart of this case, the 50 years it took to reach the truth, and a small town split in two by this case and, in many ways, is still healing.
Here’s what they’re saying:
-
-
- BestThrillers: “A powerful and compulsive true crime epic that demands a screen adaptation.” Read more
- Independent Book Review: “A 50-year true crime saga that underscores the shocking darkness—and unending lightness—of the human soul.” Read more
- Midwest Book Review: “A compelling story that grabs attention from the start.” Read more
- BookLife Reviews: “Illuminating investigative account of a 1976 Pennsylvania cold case.” Read more
- Foreword Clarion Reviews (4 stars): “A gripping account of a murder between friends.” Read more
-
To every reviewer who spent time in Montrose, PA with Marty Dillon and his family: thank you ✨
All of The Jacklighter’s editorial reviews live on one page, and I’ll keep adding to it and updating links as they come in: The Jacklighter Editorial Reviews
The Jacklighter releases Oct. 27, 2026. Hardcover, paperback, and ebook preorders are live now.
