BOOK REVIEW #DEATH ON A SCOTTISH TRAIN (A SCOTTISH ISLE MYSTERY) #LUCY CONNELLY #CROOKED LANE BOOKS PUBLISHERS #AMATEUR SLEUTHS #CRIME

 

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

In the fourth installment of the Scottish Isle Mystery series, Murder on the Storyteller’s Train, Dr. Emilia McRoy returns to the beautiful Sea Isle in Scotland for what it was looking forward to be a celebratory weeklong festival. It has been since one year of her move to this picturesque town, and the unveiling of the newly big launch of the refurbished Storyteller’s Train offers a sense of wonder and excitement. But this lighthearted beginning is quickly overshadowed by a missing storyteller and his unexpected death, setting the stage for yet another gripping mystery.

What initially seems like an unfortunate case of deadly allergies and poisoned lip balms soon takes a dark turn when Dr. McRoy, her assistant Abigail, and the ever-reliable Constable Ewan McGregor begin to unravel a chilling murder. As the clues unfold, they discover that the killer’s reach extends far beyond what they initially imagined—and it’s not just the townspeople at risk. The trio’s investigation puts them directly in the crosshairs of the murderer, escalating the tension as they race against time to expose the killer before they become the next victims.

The pacing in this book is wonderfully tense, drawing readers in as Emilia and her friends uncover the sinister truth behind the death. The author lucy excels at crafting a chilling atmosphere that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The descriptions of Sea Isle—though idyllic—are steeped with an underlying sense of danger that makes the island feel both cozy and foreboding. The mystery itself is intricately plotted, with twists and turns that will keep even seasoned mystery fans guessing until the very end.

Emilia’s growth as both a sleuth and a person is a highlight of this series, and in this installment, she continues to evolve. Her chemistry with Abigail and Constable McGregor adds depth to the narrative, and their dynamics bring a sense of camaraderie that enriches the storytelling. As always, the strong community of Sea Isle plays an essential role in helping Emilia and her team, showing the power of friendship and unity in the face of danger.

The suspense is palpable and pays a high stake as the killer targets those closest to Emilia. The mystery unfolds in a heart-stopping climax that ties everything together in a satisfying, yet unexpected, manner. Loved the mix of characters trying to look for evidences and clues.

Fans of Paige Shelton and Connie Berry will find Murder on the Storyteller’s Train to be a thrilling continuation of the series, with its perfect blend of small-town charm, intricate mystery, and a cast of characters you can’t help but root for. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a cozy mystery with a touch of suspense and a dash of romance. Highly recommended!

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Dr. Emilia McRoy, an American in Scotland, has a killer in sight in the fourth installment of the Scottish Isle mystery series, perfect for fans of Paige Shelton and Connie Berry.

Summer is coming to a close on beautiful Sea Isle in Scotland, and Dr. Emilia McRoy is celebrating one year since her big move. With a weeklong festival to end the season, the town gathers for a magical ride on the newly refurbished Storyteller’s Train but the launch’s success is dampened by an unexpected death.

What appears to be a case of deadly allergies is soon revealed as murder. As Emilia, her assistant Abigail, and the local constable Ewan McGregor unravel the mystery, the killer sets their murderous intentions on them.

If they want to survive, they will need the help of all of their friends, before they become the latest victims.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Crooked Lane Books (October 14, 2025)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 320 pages