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Mysterious Scotland #4
This Jagged Way
Journalist Gill McArdle is on the trail of an ancient clue. This time, he hopes he's wrong. Following the coronation of Charles III, Scotland’s most revered artefact, ‘The Stone of Destiny’ arrives at its long-term home in Perth Museum. Desperate to rebuild his shattered credibility, Gill is working hard on several stories along the Firth of Forth. But he’s presented with a problem when the discovery of an ancient inscription in a ruined church throws question marks against the authenticity of The Stone. On the trail of an old, old story, Gill finds himself opposed by someone prepared to kill to prevent the truth from being revealed. Obstructed at every turn, Gill realises his discovery exposes a stark choice – for him, and all of Scotland.
359 pages, Paperback
Published May 4, 2023
174 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 11, 2024
Between a rock and a hard place!
This was a well researched story but, the longer it went on, the more my interest began to wane. Unlike the majority of reviewers I should point out. This story drifted into the realms of spiritual mysticism, ultra Scottish nationalism and the machinations of Israel's Mossad security service - and all for a lump of rock. Is Scotland's fabled 'Stone of Destiny' a medieval fake? Why is the Israeli security service, in tandem with Scottish extremists, so keen to debunk our intrepid hero's latest find (also a lump of old rock) and smuggle it out of the country? I'm afraid I just failed to connect with this tale.
This was a well researched story but, the longer it went on, the more my interest began to wane. Unlike the majority of reviewers I should point out. This story drifted into the realms of spiritual mysticism, ultra Scottish nationalism and the machinations of Israel's Mossad security service - and all for a lump of rock. Is Scotland's fabled 'Stone of Destiny' a medieval fake? Why is the Israeli security service, in tandem with Scottish extremists, so keen to debunk our intrepid hero's latest find (also a lump of old rock) and smuggle it out of the country? I'm afraid I just failed to connect with this tale.
November 5, 2023
A Good Story
This was a good story but not as good as the previous ones. I still enjoyed Gill's latest adventure but something in here seemed to be lacking a bit? Maybe it was because there was a lot of politics mentioned and to be truthful I really don't care for politics.
This story was about a rock. A very famous rock apparently but being an American I have never heard of it before. While I did find the story interesting I also kind of feel the series is maybe getting away from what I had thought it would be about? The first book was about unicorns (waterhorse) and the second was about Nessie (the Lock Ness Monster) ... Which sort of makes you think its about creatures. Scottish creatures. And suddenly its about a rock..
I also thought the end was kind of weird. Like a letdown? You go through a lot of trouble and then... Well... I cannot say as it would ruin the story. But it was weird. I suppose its realistic though. I suppose the purpose is to point out what is exactly important. Like you have a choice. Between two things. And you have to choose one. Because you can't have both. And it can be a hard choice. I guess that is what the book is trying to say?
But I still found the end weird.
And the story, while interesting, was not all that exciting.
It certainly doesn't compare to the first book about the waterhorses.
The cover image doesn't match the story. The island in the story had rocky cliffs but no crooked peer like that. I don't think anyone builds a peer like that. Perhaps the cover should show a ragged rocky island with birds nesting and flying?.
One paragraph in here made me chuckle, which I appreciate.
This was a good story but not as good as the previous ones. I still enjoyed Gill's latest adventure but something in here seemed to be lacking a bit? Maybe it was because there was a lot of politics mentioned and to be truthful I really don't care for politics.
This story was about a rock. A very famous rock apparently but being an American I have never heard of it before. While I did find the story interesting I also kind of feel the series is maybe getting away from what I had thought it would be about? The first book was about unicorns (waterhorse) and the second was about Nessie (the Lock Ness Monster) ... Which sort of makes you think its about creatures. Scottish creatures. And suddenly its about a rock..
I also thought the end was kind of weird. Like a letdown? You go through a lot of trouble and then... Well... I cannot say as it would ruin the story. But it was weird. I suppose its realistic though. I suppose the purpose is to point out what is exactly important. Like you have a choice. Between two things. And you have to choose one. Because you can't have both. And it can be a hard choice. I guess that is what the book is trying to say?
But I still found the end weird.
And the story, while interesting, was not all that exciting.
It certainly doesn't compare to the first book about the waterhorses.
The cover image doesn't match the story. The island in the story had rocky cliffs but no crooked peer like that. I don't think anyone builds a peer like that. Perhaps the cover should show a ragged rocky island with birds nesting and flying?.
One paragraph in here made me chuckle, which I appreciate.
May 8, 2023
As in the previous installments of Mysterious Scotland we the readers find ourselves digging deep into Scottish history.
I can't recommend this series highly enough.
I can't recommend this series highly enough.
September 1, 2023
I need the next book ASAP lol
This story keeps growing in scope and depth. I'm not religious at all, rather the opposite, but the way this is unfolding is very interesting and draws me in. Gill is a great protagonist, he makes mistakes, follows his instincts, and genuinely seems like a sweet guy. The mysteries he sets out to solve may not end up as he would like them to, but that's part of the fun of this series. I'm hopeful we get more water horses in the future books.
This story keeps growing in scope and depth. I'm not religious at all, rather the opposite, but the way this is unfolding is very interesting and draws me in. Gill is a great protagonist, he makes mistakes, follows his instincts, and genuinely seems like a sweet guy. The mysteries he sets out to solve may not end up as he would like them to, but that's part of the fun of this series. I'm hopeful we get more water horses in the future books.
May 30, 2023
Another outing for Gill McArdle, this time caught up in the mystery surrounding the Stone of Destiny, and whether the one Scots and English alike have relied on for centuries is the right one...or not! Scottish Nationalism, rock music and a foreign agent all play their parts in this latest instalment of the 'Mysterious Scotland' series.
July 7, 2023
I enjoy this rather strange series that is part archaeology and part fantasy with a few murders thrown in. Set in Scotland, the books center around a particular area of Scotland with a well known artifact or topic, such as Loch Ness, ancient burial grounds on Orkney, etc. There are religious/ spiritual overtones that are quite intriguing.
January 1, 2024
I really enjoy the cryptozoological stuff and revisiting places in Scotland.
Unfortunately, it appears the author has slipped into using ass instead of arse. No one I know in Scotland would use ass! It is a shame as it takes away the authenticity from the characters voices.
Unfortunately, it appears the author has slipped into using ass instead of arse. No one I know in Scotland would use ass! It is a shame as it takes away the authenticity from the characters voices.
July 8, 2023
A test of faith
I loved all 4 of these books. The story lines and the characters. I know having faith and keeping faith are easier said than done. I'm glad they show faith and belief are with you all the time . Bad things still happen to good people. The hard part for some is to stay strong in belief and faith.
I loved all 4 of these books. The story lines and the characters. I know having faith and keeping faith are easier said than done. I'm glad they show faith and belief are with you all the time . Bad things still happen to good people. The hard part for some is to stay strong in belief and faith.
September 3, 2023
Thoroughly enjoying this series and love the Scottish setting. Gill McArdle is an interesting character. The stories flow really well and Tormond has a very comfortable way of writing. I'm not sure where or how far the author will go with the religious angle and it remains to be seen how tolerable I will find it. I will look forward to the next instalment and see how I fare.
May 9, 2023
I Hope To Read More
This last installment of Gill McArdle's. Journey was a great read. It made me wonder about the battle between good and evil and if we might have real warriors like Gill, Charlie, and now Adina. Hope Tormod continues this story.
This last installment of Gill McArdle's. Journey was a great read. It made me wonder about the battle between good and evil and if we might have real warriors like Gill, Charlie, and now Adina. Hope Tormod continues this story.
May 16, 2023
Absolutely brilliant they keep me on the edge of me seat if I’m watching a scary movie I can cover my eyes but it’s a lot different when you are actually reading it,so can’t wait till the next book hood it’s not too long in coming out
May 29, 2023
Really enjoying this series, an entertaining blend of fantasy, science, history and imagination. It’s obviously building up to something as the series progresses; looking forward to seeing where it goes
June 15, 2023
I do enjoy the books written by Tormod Cockburn, they are very enjoyable, intriguing and make you think, now what more do you need from a really good book, and on top of all that they have a brilliant storyline.
Read
August 6, 2023Read the first 4 books, back to back
Fabulous premise! A budding, tartan, Indiana Jones solving puzzles with a wee bit supernatural assistance. Complete escapism, that's well researched and fun to lose yourself in for a couple of days.
Fabulous premise! A budding, tartan, Indiana Jones solving puzzles with a wee bit supernatural assistance. Complete escapism, that's well researched and fun to lose yourself in for a couple of days.
January 17, 2024
I’m sure I’ll keep reading these, but this was not my favorite. Somehow it seemed less mysterious, and I’m not sure I like where Gill McArdle is heading. But the combination of archeology, history and detective is still intriguing.
September 21, 2023
an interesting twist
A twist to an old tale and a connection between the old and the new that makes our reluctant hero question and delve deeper into his quest?
A twist to an old tale and a connection between the old and the new that makes our reluctant hero question and delve deeper into his quest?
November 27, 2023
Another asterpiece for Tormod!
I love the story and the message within considering "The Book" it sets well with my faith. Entertaining and inspirational.
I love the story and the message within considering "The Book" it sets well with my faith. Entertaining and inspirational.
January 29, 2024
I loved this story. Gill has made some new discoveries (that's what archeologists do, right?) About Scotland, himself, and his faith.
October 28, 2025
I love the build in this series!!
March 25, 2026
I just finished This Jagged Way, it is about the history, mystery, and countless stories surrounding the legendary Stone of Destiny, and I’m still marveling at how many possibilities exist. It’s one of those subjects where the more you learn, the more you realize how elusive the truth might be. Did the stone travel from Scotland to Ireland? Was it the ancient Jacob’s Pillow brought from Jerusalem? (and honestly, looking at the current Stone of Destiny I can see that being anyone's pillow) Was it carried by the Tuatha Dé Danann? And then there’s the ever‑persistent belief that the coronation stone in Perth isn’t the real one at all, and that the true Stone of Destiny remains hidden somewhere in Scotland.
Gill McArdle finds a clue that leads him on a quest to find a stone that throws the credentials of the Stone of Destiny into some doubt. If true, it would be political dynamite. Some people want it kept secret and are prepared to kill to ensure it is. I love the mix of science and the supernatural, as spiritual beings and ancient, powerful artefacts are introduced.
And now I can’t help but wonder where Gill’s path will lead him next. I’m eager to see what mysteries await him in the next installment.
This book felt exceptionally well researched—just as all of Tormod’s books are—and that depth of knowledge gives the entire storyline a sense of credibility and wonder.
Gill McArdle finds a clue that leads him on a quest to find a stone that throws the credentials of the Stone of Destiny into some doubt. If true, it would be political dynamite. Some people want it kept secret and are prepared to kill to ensure it is. I love the mix of science and the supernatural, as spiritual beings and ancient, powerful artefacts are introduced.
And now I can’t help but wonder where Gill’s path will lead him next. I’m eager to see what mysteries await him in the next installment.
This book felt exceptionally well researched—just as all of Tormod’s books are—and that depth of knowledge gives the entire storyline a sense of credibility and wonder.
December 26, 2025
Some time ago now, my wife suggested that I might like this series that she had read right up to date. I looked up the first two and didn't think that Unicorns and the Loch Ness monster were really my sort of book.
Maybe it was a moment of weakness or maybe I opened the first by mistake but I have to admit that my wife was right. From quite a gentle start the series has developed so well that I am now hooked.
The centre of the story is a young geologist who through a silly idiotic mistake ruined his chances of a very promising career. On the rebound he takes a temporary job as editor of a magazine 'Mysterious Scotland ' with a brief to examine and write about Scottish mysteries.
What could have been a bit silly, unicorns and Nessie turned into very interesting reads. Dare I even say, 'thought provoking'.
This book is #4 of a series of 9 (so far). Don't even think of starting the series anywhere else but the beginning. A strangeness in the first books is starting to be explained and is taking the series into the realm of 'fantasy'. Usually I would shy away at this point but here it is different and I applaud the way the author has kept me onboard.
I am not sure that I can adequately describe these books , part history, part adventure, part mystery, ok and a bit of fantasy but my Goodread friends should know me well enough by now to trust me and try this series for themselves.
31st July 2025
Maybe it was a moment of weakness or maybe I opened the first by mistake but I have to admit that my wife was right. From quite a gentle start the series has developed so well that I am now hooked.
The centre of the story is a young geologist who through a silly idiotic mistake ruined his chances of a very promising career. On the rebound he takes a temporary job as editor of a magazine 'Mysterious Scotland ' with a brief to examine and write about Scottish mysteries.
What could have been a bit silly, unicorns and Nessie turned into very interesting reads. Dare I even say, 'thought provoking'.
This book is #4 of a series of 9 (so far). Don't even think of starting the series anywhere else but the beginning. A strangeness in the first books is starting to be explained and is taking the series into the realm of 'fantasy'. Usually I would shy away at this point but here it is different and I applaud the way the author has kept me onboard.
I am not sure that I can adequately describe these books , part history, part adventure, part mystery, ok and a bit of fantasy but my Goodread friends should know me well enough by now to trust me and try this series for themselves.
31st July 2025
September 17, 2023
Review of this book.
My mother was obsessed with looking perfect in both weight and beauty. Constant dieting and tons of makeup! She put me on diet pills because she said I was too fat. I got quite ill at school and told the.nurse what my mother was doing, and she read my mother the M act! My mother was very angry at me and told me I was too fat. I did refused to take any more pill. My pancreas died about eleven years ago due to my footer parents beating me in the stomach so the bruises would not be seen. I am very proud of my Finnish and Celtic looks and heritage! Primarily, because I do not.look at all like my mother! I am the spitting image of my father! She was French- Canadian. Darker skin and brown eyes. She hated me because I looked like my father. My paternal grandparents signed papers for taking responsibility for us to come to the United States. I am forever grateful to them for that. I lived with another foster family until I was ready to start first grade. Then my mother had to have me come live with her and my step-fsther. He treated me like I was his own daughter! I loved him so much.
My mother was obsessed with looking perfect in both weight and beauty. Constant dieting and tons of makeup! She put me on diet pills because she said I was too fat. I got quite ill at school and told the.nurse what my mother was doing, and she read my mother the M act! My mother was very angry at me and told me I was too fat. I did refused to take any more pill. My pancreas died about eleven years ago due to my footer parents beating me in the stomach so the bruises would not be seen. I am very proud of my Finnish and Celtic looks and heritage! Primarily, because I do not.look at all like my mother! I am the spitting image of my father! She was French- Canadian. Darker skin and brown eyes. She hated me because I looked like my father. My paternal grandparents signed papers for taking responsibility for us to come to the United States. I am forever grateful to them for that. I lived with another foster family until I was ready to start first grade. Then my mother had to have me come live with her and my step-fsther. He treated me like I was his own daughter! I loved him so much.
December 14, 2024
Gill's on the trail of another artefact: the *true* Stone of Scone. He's become convinced that the huge chunk of basalt going into the Perth museum is not the original, and he thinks he's found the real deal.
Pretty soon, he's running afoul of the Nationalist party, a museum curator who may not be all they appear and, because this is Gill, the supernatural. Tack on his father's increasing dementia and slow decline, and it's a lot for one guy to deal with.
In a way, it also felt like it was too much for one book. The plot was so complicated that I would have to stop and take stock of what had happened and try to connect the dots.
It wasn't a bad book, but I'm hoping the next one will be more my cup of tea because I really like the character and the premise.
Pretty soon, he's running afoul of the Nationalist party, a museum curator who may not be all they appear and, because this is Gill, the supernatural. Tack on his father's increasing dementia and slow decline, and it's a lot for one guy to deal with.
In a way, it also felt like it was too much for one book. The plot was so complicated that I would have to stop and take stock of what had happened and try to connect the dots.
It wasn't a bad book, but I'm hoping the next one will be more my cup of tea because I really like the character and the premise.
January 14, 2025
Oh dear.
There are many things I really enjoy about Tormod's books: the characters and the banter between them, his description of places in Scotland, his writing style. But I'm getting increasingly irritated by the christian and now also jewish elements. This time the plot revolves around a couple of rocks, one of which he describes as "one of humanity's most precious objects." Oh, come off it! He is referring to a slab of stone known as 'Jacob's pillow', to those who believe in a collection of stories written by Stone Age herders of sheep and goats, stories full of rape, pillage, murder etc known to Gill as 'The Book', in which Gill increasingly finds meaning. That sticks in my craw.
Because of the positives mentioned above, I'll try one more book, but I'm losing patience...
There are many things I really enjoy about Tormod's books: the characters and the banter between them, his description of places in Scotland, his writing style. But I'm getting increasingly irritated by the christian and now also jewish elements. This time the plot revolves around a couple of rocks, one of which he describes as "one of humanity's most precious objects." Oh, come off it! He is referring to a slab of stone known as 'Jacob's pillow', to those who believe in a collection of stories written by Stone Age herders of sheep and goats, stories full of rape, pillage, murder etc known to Gill as 'The Book', in which Gill increasingly finds meaning. That sticks in my craw.
Because of the positives mentioned above, I'll try one more book, but I'm losing patience...
February 27, 2025
Book four does not disappoint
I just love the way the author weaves true to life persons and artifacts into fiction that is hard to put down. And, because I read on a Kindle I can highlight and read up on the places and lore of Scotland and its people. I have learned more about Scottish history in the four books I've read thus far than I ever expected.
The Jagged Way is suspenseful and entertaining to the last page. Then for extra goodness, the editor of Mysterious Scotland includes his theories on the matters at hand. I truly enjoy the editorials as much as the book itself.
Now, on to book five!
I just love the way the author weaves true to life persons and artifacts into fiction that is hard to put down. And, because I read on a Kindle I can highlight and read up on the places and lore of Scotland and its people. I have learned more about Scottish history in the four books I've read thus far than I ever expected.
The Jagged Way is suspenseful and entertaining to the last page. Then for extra goodness, the editor of Mysterious Scotland includes his theories on the matters at hand. I truly enjoy the editorials as much as the book itself.
Now, on to book five!
October 9, 2025
Another ancient legend comes to present day
Thoroughly enjoyable! I read this book in less time than the previous ones in the series because I enjoyed it so much. Other reviewers’ complaints are comical to me, especially when they reference spirituality. There is no proselytizing Christian narrative! The main character’s acceptance and belief in the supernatural is growing - that’s all. This particular reviewer seems to have a deep seated fear of the spiritual. Personally, I’m looking forward to another deep dive into Scottish history and folklore in the next book by my new favorite author, Tormod Cockburn.
Thoroughly enjoyable! I read this book in less time than the previous ones in the series because I enjoyed it so much. Other reviewers’ complaints are comical to me, especially when they reference spirituality. There is no proselytizing Christian narrative! The main character’s acceptance and belief in the supernatural is growing - that’s all. This particular reviewer seems to have a deep seated fear of the spiritual. Personally, I’m looking forward to another deep dive into Scottish history and folklore in the next book by my new favorite author, Tormod Cockburn.
February 21, 2024
In another of this very enjoyable series, Gill McArdle finds a clue that leads him on a quest to find a stone that throws the credentials of the Stone of Destiny into some doubt. If true, it would be political dynamite. Some people want it kept secret and are prepared to kill to ensure it is. It's always an exciting story with Tormod Cockburn, and I love the mix of science and the supernatural, as spiritual beings and ancient, powerful artefacts are introduced. Suspend your disbelief and jump in!
March 30, 2024
Love these historical/spiritual novels
I just finished reading book #4 in this series. The storylines are complicated, but in a good way. The author weaves his tale down a twisted, sometimes treacherous trail. The characters feel real and the stories believable, which are based on true history of Scotland. I have enjoyed each of the immensely intriguing books, congratulations to the author, Tormod Cockburn.
I just finished reading book #4 in this series. The storylines are complicated, but in a good way. The author weaves his tale down a twisted, sometimes treacherous trail. The characters feel real and the stories believable, which are based on true history of Scotland. I have enjoyed each of the immensely intriguing books, congratulations to the author, Tormod Cockburn.
June 4, 2024
fiction with a dose of truth.
Complicated story line in keeping with the wonderful, long, intense history of our world. Well, Scotland! As a firm believer in the importance of decision making, the left and right turn ideology hits home as does “The Book” and the armor set. If you’ve read this far in the series, you’ll know the next story will be exciting! Keep reading!
Complicated story line in keeping with the wonderful, long, intense history of our world. Well, Scotland! As a firm believer in the importance of decision making, the left and right turn ideology hits home as does “The Book” and the armor set. If you’ve read this far in the series, you’ll know the next story will be exciting! Keep reading!
January 18, 2025
Mystery series that are set in current times are usually not usually my cup of tea. The Mysterious Scotland series manages to spin together mystery, archaeology, Scottish history, mythology, and faith journeys in a way that is intriguing and entertaining. It has really drawn me in and “This Jagged Way” is my favorite book in the series so far.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews