I really enjoyed this cosy mystery, a lovely bit of escapism from my real world. Loved the characters and have signed up for the author’s newsletter so I will know when the next book comes out.

Really enjoyed this book and couldn't put it down. I do love a cozy mystery. Will definitely read others in the series as they come out.

"Murder at Castle Traprain" by Jackie Baldwin delivers an atmospheric and gripping Scottish mystery that effortlessly blends the elements of a cozy animal mystery with historical fiction. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Edinburgh and the ominous Castle Traprain, this novel unfolds a tale of suspense, intrigue, and unexpected connections.

Detective Grace McKenna of the Portobello Detective Agency is drawn into a web of secrets when wealthy Russian collector Sacha Komorov seeks her help to recover a stolen rose-diamond Fabergé egg. As Grace delves into the case, she uncovers a tangled web of deception within the walls of Castle Traprain, where the staff hides as many secrets as the building itself.

The narrative is skillfully layered, weaving together the disappearance of the priceless egg with the unsettling plight of Katya, Komorov's troubled wife, who is desperate for Grace's assistance in dealing with a stalker. As the investigation progresses, tensions mount and the line between suspects and targets blurs. The novel masterfully builds an aura of suspense, keeping readers engrossed with every twist and turn.

Baldwin's writing paints vivid imagery of the Scottish landscape, from the serene beauty of Portobello Beach to the imposing presence of Castle Traprain. The characterization of Grace McKenna is both relatable and compelling, and her interactions with her team and the complex personalities at Castle Traprain add depth to the narrative.

With its seamless blend of historical elements and cozy animal mystery vibes, "Murder at Castle Traprain" offers a captivating reading experience that keeps readers engaged until the final revelation. Jackie Baldwin's storytelling prowess shines as she skillfully navigates the complexities of relationships, secrets, and motives, creating an unputdownable mystery that leaves readers craving more.

**Many thanks to NetGalley for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.**

2/5⭐⭐

Grace McKenna used to work as a police officer in Scotland before circumstances pushed her to start her own detective agency. Together with her reliable team, her agency is gaining a reputation for itself. Recently, they were approached by Sacha Komorov, a wealthy Russian, to solve the case of his stolen Faberge Imperial Egg.

This was definitely a different vibe than I expected. I would say that this is more cozy mystery than an actual thriller type plot. While the story has themes of murder, theft, and stalking, the tone is overall 'cute'.

Although this is the second book in the series, you don't necessarily need to read the first one. The initial book delves into Grace's reasons for leaving the police force, the breakdown of her marriage, and the tragic loss of her son, but you can still enjoy this as a standalone story.

Grace's team was a nice group of people, but the situations that they are put in seemed a bit far-fetched. The client's situation and the surrounding dramas felt overly extreme and risky.

Cute dog sidekick but overall was not my cup of tea.

Russian asylum seekers, a castle, faberge eggs etc all have big parts to play in this book. A most enjoyable well researched read. Thanks to the brilliant publisher Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the chance to be an ARC.

Although book 2 in the series, this is a standalone and easily read as such. Grace has moved on from the troubles that affected her in book one and is all set for her next adventure with trusty canine sidekick in attendance.
Baldwin’s sense of place is remarkable as is her writing. A writer to watch!

I enjoyed the strong relationships amongst the Agency team members and the broader village community and yet, though I tried I struggled with this story and its credibility. It all felt just a bit too much of a stretch for me for such a small start-up. And the client and surrounding dramas just seemed extreme - just a bit too much risk. (Harvey is delightful and wins everyone over to his side - a very loveable pup).

I didn't read the previous book and didn't feel like I missed out on anything as a result

It's 2.5 up to a 3 out of 5 for me.

With thanks to Netgalley, the author and Storm Publishing for my advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

I absolutely LOVED this second book from Jackie Baldwin - I had been waiting keenly for the next installment of Grace's story, and I wasn't disappointed. It is well-written and gripping, with plenty of tension and excitement, but never scary or really creepy, which suits me perfectly. There were Faberge eggs, a secret passage, a wounded ballet dancer and brooding Russians - completely fabulous. I like the character of Grace enormously, and find myself wanting the best for her, which is always a good sign, I think. The supporting cast around her are also interesting in their own right, and I like the way their stories are woven together. Can't wait for the next one!

Beautiful setting for a murder with great descriptions of the area. The mystery had plenty of twists and turns although I did spot the villain early on. I haven't read the first book but didn't feel this affected my enjoyment of this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Grace McKenna runs a detective agency near Portobello Beach, Scotland. Having previously been a career cop for the Scottish Police, circumstances have made it necessary for her to branch out as a private investigator. Along with her trusty colleagues Jean and Hannah, Grace is making quite a name for herself and the agency is asked to take on a case by the extremely wealthy Sacha Komorov. The Russian is devastated that his Faberge Imperial Egg has been stolen!

If you love your crime stories on the twee side, this is for you. The term ‘cosy’ was made for this book. Yes, there are murders, thefts, stalkers, et al, never mind intrigue, intimidation and coercion, but all done with a very genteel twist ;).

This is the second book in this series, I haven’t read the first. Apparently in the first book the reader discovers why Grace ‘left’ the police force, the story behind the break up of her marriage and the tragedy of her son’s suicide. If you can live without knowing, it’s an ok standalone.

Not really my kind of storytelling, but I quite understand its appeal. Not too enamoured with the writing style, all over the place at times, but perhaps that is just me!

2.5* upped to 3*

Thank you Storm and NetGalley.

A brilliant Scottish mystery that will keep the pages turning. Grace and her team certainly have their hands full with this assignment and the description of the beautiful surroundings is spot on

Good book! This book had a bit of everything! It had suspense, Action, intrigue, mystery, great detective work, murder, great plot twist, and some crazy twists and turns! The storyline was very interesting and kept me glued to my Kindle! I definitely recommend reading this book as it was well worth reading! Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for sharing this book with me!