Ezra and Howard have created an airship to take people to the North Pole in luxurious, eco friendly comfort. This is the story of the maiden voyage to entice the press into promoting it. Howard was Ezra’s Dad’s best friend until Isaac’s demise on a fateful trek to the pole. They are continuing the idea they dreamt up on that journey. But from the moment the airship is loaded and on its way, things start to go wrong. And as soon as a body is discovered in a locked room “accident”, the lies and mistrust begin. Throw in a bit of forced proximity and a storm and you’ve got the makings of a decent murder mystery!

As with the other books my Tom Hindle, it’s twisty and has plenty of red herrings. The small cast, almost all whom are untrustworthy, and the unusual surroundings make for an interesting story. Yes I guessed whodunnit and why, but I read enough mysteries that I often do, and I’m not sure that matters when the story is fun anyway. There’s no grisly death details, which is great if you don’t like gory murders, and the airship is a nice touch for something a bit different.

This was a really good mystery. I took me a little while to get used to who was who with all the characters but once I remembered who was who the drama unfolded and I started wondering who had done and trying to figure it out as they discussed amongst themselves, each chapter giving us a little bit more information. This reminded me of Agatha Christie crime mystery. I like the setting of the Artic which created an even more scarier atmosphere. I didn't really feel really connected to the characters but the mystery I did really enjoy. Would recommend.

I’ve bought every book Tom Hindle has wrote however I haven’t got round to reading any so this is my first!
I enjoyed the pace, the settings and the storyline however it was predictable. I love that everyone had a reason to be the one to do it which did add to the suspense.
The setting of the book and how beautiful everything was had made me want to visit the area and see it for myself, you would never get me on one of them balloons though 🤣

Will deffo be reading his other books!
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Release Date - 16th January 2025

3.5/5

Another solid murder mystery from Tom Hindle. A familiar formula by now but if it isn't broke don't fix it.

The setting for this book makes it a very unique story and opens up some interesting possibilities that add to the complexity of the mystery.

As with his other books we start with an introduction to a host of characters, setting the scene and the motivations for everyone involved. Followed by the reveal of a body and then an array of potential clues. The use of multiple POVs really helps lay out the peices of the puzzle for the reader, and some great dialogue between characters drops subtle hints and some misdirection to add to the mystery. The characters (as per usual with Tom's books) are secluded allowing the story to play out without interference.

The story ramps up towards the last quarter and a portion of the story falls into place before inevitably somebody peices it all together, mystery solved.

For me the reveal is always the best part of a murder mystery although I did think there was some pretty big leaps to get there this time. I did find some of the smaller characters were a bit underwhelming and they were mainly there to add to the plot in some way.


Another decent read following a familiar pattern in an interesting and unique setting.

I’ve very divided on this one, as indeed I have been on most of Tom Hindle’s books. So I should say, if you loved those unconditionally, as a lot of people seem to, then just ignore this review.

Let’s concentrate on the good points. First of all, it’s a proper locked room mystery – there’s a dressing gown wedged under the cabin door from the inside. It reminded me a tad of Carter Dickson’s He Wouldn’t Kill Patience, although the gown isn’t causing a seal. The construction of the plot and the cluing is all there with the villain’s plan making a reasonable amount of sense. I’ve a concern or two about the science involved, as I’m not sure how much helium you’d need in the room to suffocate someone – is it enough to be safely dispersed by opening a door? – but that isn’t important. There’s an effective finale too.

Also, the world-building here, namely that of a helium airship holiday business, is impeccably done. It’s nonsense in reality, not least because of the amount of helium it would need, but you’ll almost be conviced.

However I do have two gripes. As with the other books, there is a large cast of characters and I did feel this time that some of them were just… there. Not red herrings, not a cog in the plot, just… there. On more than one occasion I had to flick back to remind myself who was who. By moving the focus around, it does take a while to establish who the sleuth is (unless you read the blurb) which I thought was a nice idea, but it does take a while, to be honest, for much to happen at all. The murder is at the halfway point in the tale, but there’s not that much going on, criminally speaking, before that.

But the bigger crime is that Captain Obvious is back again. Hindle is playing a “who would want to kill him?” game as there’s not much motive from any character on display. But the actual motive (and ergo the actual murderer) is very guessable (and I guessed it the first time we were given relevant information). Plaudits for including the information so that the reader can work it out – Hindle’s books are all pretty well clued – but as with the previous titles, I don’t think the experienced armchair detective will miss it. As I said, the villain’s plot is well-thought-out and even makes some sort of sense (as much as evil plans do) so Hindle to be praised for that element of the plotting.

So, as I said, I’m divided. If you’re unsure and have read the earlier titles, take a look at my reviews of The Murder Game or Murder On Lake Garda and see if you disagree with me. Most people on NetGalley seem to love this unconditionally, so maybe I’m in the minority here…

I really liked this book, the setting and the story. Although I could see the culprit coming almost since the beginning, it was very well done. The author gave the clues, and if as a reader you could see them, it was great. I love when I'm right guessing an ending.

After finishing this impressive murder mystery I remain unconvinced of the setting in a luxury airship - shades of Branson or Musk?

16 people aboard and I was soon a fan of Chloe. Difficult to outline the story without spoilers, but it is worth reading to the end.

I was put off by the multiple POVs (but I usually am), but all credit to Mr Hindle for an enjoyable book. This was my first one by him.

This was actually my first Tom Hindle book, but it certainly won't be my last.

Thanks to Net galley and Random House UK Cornerstone for the chance to read and review.

In Tom Handle’s fourth book we are taken to the top of the world. A locked room mystery on the airship Osprey as it takes its maiden voyage across the artic to the North Pole. Each of the eight guests and eight crew have their reasons for being there and soon a murder forces secrets and personnel histories to emerge. A plot with many unexpected twists and turns this book certainly kept me turning the pages to the late hours of the night. A thoroughly enjoyable murder mystery with a nod to the classic golden age of crime writing what wasn’t there to like. I will certainly be looking forward to more from this author and wonder where he will take his readers to next. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this novel in return for a honest review.

Aspiring travel writer Chloe has been commissioned to write about the debut voyage of a luxury airship over the North Pole. However the cast and the crew all have their own concerns and worries. Is this really a sustainable way to travel? When one of the founders of the company is found dead, sabotage is suspected. As the weather closes in, are any of them safe?
I really like Hindle's books and this is no exception. There's a genuine homage to the Golden Age in scenarios, especially the locked room where everyone has some sort of motive. It's 'Death on the Nile' but a lot colder and with lovely modern twists around eco-warriors, insurance etc whilst still looking at deep motives. The writing it light and the plot bounces along at a good pace. This is entertaining crime fiction with a deftness of touch.

I enjoyed Death in the Arctic by Tom Hindle. It has much the same format as his earlier books but that's fine; it works. In this instance though, I saw the ending from quite far out. However the character interactions kept me involved and a little off balance. The latter's always a good thing in a murder mystery I think! Having said all that, it was the descriptions of Longyearbyen and the flight over the rest of Svalbard that I loved most.

This time Tom has set his book on a modern and luxury airship heading to the North Pole on a trial journey to iron out any wrinkles before real holiday flights start. The ‘accidental death’ of one of the small number of people onboard destroys the holiday mood and the remaining people start to wonder if it really was an accident.

Thoroughly enjoyed reading the story, especially the dramatic reveal. This was a book I quickly got lost in the pages of, and I stayed up late to finish it, desperate to know what happened.

I’m thrilled to hear that Tom is writing another book, set in the depths of the Amazon rainforest.

Airship Osprey is due to set off on its maiden journey to the North Pole. The journey is what Ezra, Chief Operating Officer, calls a ‘trial run’, as there are no paying guests. Before he allows customers on board, he decided to invite a mix of people and gather their opinions. Aboard are some of Ezra’s friends, but also a travel blogger/ inspiring journalist, Chloé.

From the beginning, some things aren’t working properly, like the blinds, fridge-freezer, and thanks to a faulty air conditioning unit in one of the cabins, one person dies. The death seems accidental, but as Chloé digs deeper, she uncovers that the person may have been killed…

What a book!

I love Tom Hindle’s novels and this one didn’t disappoint. Give me a locked murder mystery any time of the day.

I enjoyed the location of the story: up in the clouds, travelling towards the North Pole, knowing that you are stuck with each other until you land. As you may predict, the tensions start to rise and people become distrustful of each other.

Chloé was extremely perceptive and at one point I was even suspecting her! Everyone had a motive to kill.

I definitely recommend this book.

Many thanks to Penguin for approving my NetGalley request to read and review this title.

So very different to anything else I've read!

Chloe Campbell is desperate to make her mark as a travel writer so when she's invited aboard a luxury airship for it's maiden voyage, she is thrilled. This is her big chance to make her mark and travel the world with someone else footing the bill.

Now here's a book I wish I could read all over again without knowing what's coming! It had me hooked from the beginning. The characters were definitely a mixed bunch who came alive on the page and the plot had me suspicious of each and every one of them. A gripping and thrilling read from beginning to end and one I really enjoyed. I love this author's work, cannot wait until the next one. For me, 4.5* and my recommendation.

My thanks to the publisher for my copy via NetGalley; this is - as always - my honest, original and unbiased review.

I really wanted to like this book - amazing plot outline and location. Unfortunately I was disappointed. It failed to live up to my expectations. That said I must give the author a lot of credit for the thought put in to writing such a creative novel. Impressive.

The plot although intriguing seemed somewhat unrealistic as it progressed but I guess that is down to my personal taste. In a book everything can be realistic in different contexts.

I am interested enough in the author Tom Hindle to want to read more of his material.

Tom Hindle returns with the ultimate locked room mystery in his latest novel Death In the Arctic.
This time the death occurs in an airship floating many miles above the Arctic Circle. Even though the potential list of suspects is whittled down, many questions arise. Was it really foul play or natural causes? Was the victim the person everyone assumed he was? Are all the suspects what they seem? Plus of course, if murder has been committed, the rest of the passengers and crew are trapped with a killer on board.
The setting of the airship is both unique and contemporary. We are presented with it as a viable alternative to ordinary air travel in time of climate change. The airship is on it’s maiden voyage and a selected group of passengers is on board. The project has been conceived by Ezra Day and it has been his lifelong dream. I definitely got a feel for Richard Branson from him. We soon learn that the passengers and crew all have existing issues with each other and with Ezra. The airship setting also has a vintage feel which contributes to the Agatha Christie vibes.
The story is told from multiple perspectives, and before the final reveal, there are many twists and turns, backstories, and red herrings.
In my opinion, Tom Hindle just gets better and better and this has to be my favourite novel from him so far.
My sincere thanks to Netgalley, Tom Hindle and especially Random House for the much-appreciated ARC in exchange for an open and honest review.

This book did not disappoint!

The setting of this on an airship was something different and I could picture everything perfectly from the writing.

I’ve never read a Tom Hindle book before but I really enjoyed his writing. It was easy to follow and even the technical bits about the air ship were fine.

The characters were well-rounded and it was a pleasure to get to know them all.

Thank you so much to the Publisher for access to this ARC!

With 8 crew and 8 guests on the first flight aboard a brand new airship in the North Pole, there is much excitement on board.

When the owner is found dead in his room, everyone is scared, as they don’t know whether it was natural causes or murder.

With strange happenings occurring, everyone needs to be on the ball.

This isn’t an easy book to review as I don’t want to give anything away.

I found myself intrigued by the story and liked the fact that this isn’t something I have read in any of the many books I have read over the years.

I do enjoy this author’s stories, they have all kept me entertained and this one was no different. I’m eagerly waiting to see what ideas he comes up with next.

My thanks to Random House UK and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.

4.25 stars
This was actually my first Tom Hindle book, but it certainly won't be my last.
First of all, the entire setting and idea of taking to the skies in a luxury airship was such an interesting one. And it made for a great locked door mystery, as there really is nowhere to go once it's up in the air.
I really liked the way that there were multiple POVs, without it feeling confusing or too much. Plus, the characters felt distinct, too.
As a blogger turned freelance writer myself, I was instantly rooting for Chloe and actually found quite a few of the characters to be likeable, which isn't always the case in these kinds of stories.
Normally I'm really off base with my predictions as to who the murderer could be in these types of stories, but I immediately guessed who they were from the first few chapters, which was a little disappointing. But unlike other reveals, it felt believable and I completely understood their motivations.
Certain sentences did feel a bit repetitive, as well.
But, overall, this was a really quick paced, easy to read mystery that I seriously enjoyed.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is my first book by this author and, on the back of what I read here, I have a few more books added to my tbr!
We start with the "press night" maiden voyage of a luxury airship, flying to the North Pole. Aspiring travel writer Chloe Campbell is one of the lucky journalists invited to take part in this historic event. She joins 7 other "guests" and 8 crew aboard this most magnificent vessel but, in the morning, after an eventful dinner the night before, a body is found! But before the event, we have had plenty of time and action to meet all the "suspects" and their "motives" and watch the finger start to revolve around to each in turn...
Personally I am not a big fan of being on something with no escape route. I put up with aeroplanes as a means to get to somewhere I really want to go so the thought of being trapped in an airship, a volatile, explosive airship, just for fun, fills me with dread at the start so the tension, for me, was front and centre all the way through!
Characters were all interesting and intriguing and I would love to say they kept me on my toes throughout but I did guess early who and why... Not that that really mattered as, and I have been on many occasion, I coulda been wrong. I wasn't. But instead of the thrill of the reveal, I did get that smug feeling, which was a decent enough substitute.
What I did like about this author was his no nonsense attitude to what he was writing. It got on with itself very well, with no pretence, and without trying to be too clever and disrespecting the reader with obfuscation.
All in all, a thoroughly decent read that ticked all my boxes and kept me quiet for a few hours! As already mentioned, I've added the rest of his back catalogue to my TBR... My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.

I have really enjoyed previous books from this author so was looking forward to this. It didn't disappoint. This book had be gripped and desperate to keep reading.
Ezra and Howard have worked together to launch air ship travel and this flight to the North pole to check the final details.
The book is told from the viewpoint different characters as the ship heads to the north pole and tragedy occurs.
Thoroughly enjoyed this and it felt very different due to the premise. Great book!