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Scottish Shire Mystery #4
Murder at a Scottish Wedding (The Scottish Shire Mysteries)
As her friend's matron of honor, Paislee Shaw vows to solve the mystery of a missing brooch and a dying wedding guest . . . Paislee's specialty sweater shop and yarn business Cashmere Crush, in the charming Scottish village of Nairn, is closed today for a special occasion. Her bonnie bestie Lydia is moments away from walking down the aisle of the church at Old Nairn Kirk to wed Corbin Smythe. Gramps and Paislee's eleven-year-old son Brody are seated in the pews with the other guests--the only family not in attendance is their black Scottish terrier Wallace. As matron of honor, Paislee is at her friend's side when Lydia lets out a frantic cry. The Luckenbooth brooch her betrothed gave her is missing. A traditional Scottish love token, the gold heirloom has been in his family for generations and not wearing it could bring bad luck--according to the superstitious Smythes. But the real misfortune falls on a distraught cousin who suddenly disrupts the ceremony and dies with the brooch in her hand. The Smythes insist it's the curse. But Paislee must broach the subject of . . . murder. And was the intended victim the guest--or the bride? Only Paislee can determine who to pin the murder on . . .
1 pages, Audio CD
First published January 1, 2023
124 people are currently reading
451 people want to read
About the author
Traci Hall
109 books401 followersalso writing as Traci Wilton and Ellie Brannigan
From cozy mysteries to seaside romance, USA Today bestselling author Traci Hall writes stories that captivate her readers. As a hybrid author with over sixty published works, Ms. Hall has a favorite tale for everyone.
Mystery lovers, check out her Scottish Shire series, set in the seaside town of Nairn, or the Salem B&B Mystery series, co-written as Traci Wilton. Her latest project is an Irish Castle cozy as Ellie Brannigan. Whether it's her ever-popular By the Sea romances, an Appletree Cove sweet romance, or a fun who-done-it, Traci finds her inspiration in sunny South Florida, living right near the ocean.
Traci wants to hear from you!
Traci@TraciHall.com
Facebook.com/BytheSeaSeries
Twitter.com/Tracihallauthor
From cozy mysteries to seaside romance, USA Today bestselling author Traci Hall writes stories that captivate her readers. As a hybrid author with over sixty published works, Ms. Hall has a favorite tale for everyone.
Mystery lovers, check out her Scottish Shire series, set in the seaside town of Nairn, or the Salem B&B Mystery series, co-written as Traci Wilton. Her latest project is an Irish Castle cozy as Ellie Brannigan. Whether it's her ever-popular By the Sea romances, an Appletree Cove sweet romance, or a fun who-done-it, Traci finds her inspiration in sunny South Florida, living right near the ocean.
Traci wants to hear from you!
Traci@TraciHall.com
Facebook.com/BytheSeaSeries
Twitter.com/Tracihallauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
January 18, 2023
This turned out to be the fourth book in the series, but it was my first and that may have been a mistake. I see there are many glowing reviews from people who were already familiar with the characters and of course I missed out on that side of things.
Nevertheless it was easy to pick up on who was who, and the story line about a murder at a wedding with its following investigation was fun. I was not as interested in Grandpa Angus and the events regarding his son but it was still easy reading.
I have never been a fan of authors trying to replicate a dialect in print, be it Scottish, Irish, Yorkshire or even (please no!) Australian. This one, obviously from the title, was Scottish and I got very tired of characters saying they were "sairy."
Despite my criticisms I was not sairy I had read the book. It was a light, entertaining read and I would be happy to read more books from this author.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Nevertheless it was easy to pick up on who was who, and the story line about a murder at a wedding with its following investigation was fun. I was not as interested in Grandpa Angus and the events regarding his son but it was still easy reading.
I have never been a fan of authors trying to replicate a dialect in print, be it Scottish, Irish, Yorkshire or even (please no!) Australian. This one, obviously from the title, was Scottish and I got very tired of characters saying they were "sairy."
Despite my criticisms I was not sairy I had read the book. It was a light, entertaining read and I would be happy to read more books from this author.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
August 26, 2022
I enjoyed reading Murder at a Scottish Wedding. It was a fun read. there are two different parts to this story. The wedding and what has happened to Angus's son. The The story starts off with Lydia Barron is getting ready at Old Nairn Kirk Church for her wedding to Corbin Smythe. His family is very wealthy and prominent in their town. . A package was left at the church for her with a Luckenbooth Brooch in the shape of a double heart pin with a ruby in the middle. It was given to her by her fiancé whose family give brooches to their intended.. His family was not happy that he gave it to her. They do not welcome her into the family and makes her feel unwelcome. Corbin's step mother, Mary, feels that the pin brings bad luck to the bride and is cursed. Paislee Ann Shaw is Lydia's best friend. She owns Cashmere Crush Knit Shop.
When Lydia is getting dressed she can't find the pin and refuses to walk down the aisle without it. Corbin is told and says she should use another pin and proceed with the wedding. When entering the church Felice Smythe, Corbin's cousin, is acting strange and falls down the steps at the church and breaks her neck and dies. When Paislee goes to check on her she sees the pin in her hand with white powder on it. Because of her death the wedding is put on hold. Constable Payne and Constable Sarah Monroe are called to the church.
This is where the story takes the reader on an adventure of who the Smythe' family is all about. DI Zeffer comes to the manor and tells Paislee and her grandfather that the pin had strychnine on it. That is what killed her besides a broken neck. He suggested that the poison was meant for Lydia. When Corbin does not stand up to his father when Lydia is accused by a member of the family of killing Felice she breaks the engagement. and gives him back the ring. Both Lydia and Paislee decide to find out who killed Felice and who is trying to kill her. They go back and interview all the people who were at the wedding, etc.
The reader is taken on an adventure of who killed Felice and why. There is an exciting ending with the discovery of who the killer is in the Smythe family.
The other part if the story is about Paislee Shaw's family. Her grandfather, Angus, has come to live with her. and her son, Brody. Angus is not sure if his son, Craigh is dead or alive.. . DI Zeller wants to talk to the grandfather about his son., He tells them that Craigh was working for Scotland Yard but has gone underground. Angus did not tell DI Zeller about what is in the storage unit that he has. There are boxes he is keeping with his son's name on them. This is where the reader is taken on another adventure of the mystery of Craigh and what he is involved in. Much happens that brings the reader to an exciting conclusion.
The book ends with Corbin and Lydia going to Greta Green where he proposes to her and they get married. I look forward to seeing what happens with the next book in the series with Corbin and Lydia dealing with his family and is there romance for Paislee.
Thank you NetGalley, Kensington Books and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC.
When Lydia is getting dressed she can't find the pin and refuses to walk down the aisle without it. Corbin is told and says she should use another pin and proceed with the wedding. When entering the church Felice Smythe, Corbin's cousin, is acting strange and falls down the steps at the church and breaks her neck and dies. When Paislee goes to check on her she sees the pin in her hand with white powder on it. Because of her death the wedding is put on hold. Constable Payne and Constable Sarah Monroe are called to the church.
This is where the story takes the reader on an adventure of who the Smythe' family is all about. DI Zeffer comes to the manor and tells Paislee and her grandfather that the pin had strychnine on it. That is what killed her besides a broken neck. He suggested that the poison was meant for Lydia. When Corbin does not stand up to his father when Lydia is accused by a member of the family of killing Felice she breaks the engagement. and gives him back the ring. Both Lydia and Paislee decide to find out who killed Felice and who is trying to kill her. They go back and interview all the people who were at the wedding, etc.
The reader is taken on an adventure of who killed Felice and why. There is an exciting ending with the discovery of who the killer is in the Smythe family.
The other part if the story is about Paislee Shaw's family. Her grandfather, Angus, has come to live with her. and her son, Brody. Angus is not sure if his son, Craigh is dead or alive.. . DI Zeller wants to talk to the grandfather about his son., He tells them that Craigh was working for Scotland Yard but has gone underground. Angus did not tell DI Zeller about what is in the storage unit that he has. There are boxes he is keeping with his son's name on them. This is where the reader is taken on another adventure of the mystery of Craigh and what he is involved in. Much happens that brings the reader to an exciting conclusion.
The book ends with Corbin and Lydia going to Greta Green where he proposes to her and they get married. I look forward to seeing what happens with the next book in the series with Corbin and Lydia dealing with his family and is there romance for Paislee.
Thank you NetGalley, Kensington Books and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC.
November 29, 2025
I plan to listen to every book in this series. Not only was the suspense intense, so was the family relationships, in a mostly positive way. One of the many things I love about this series is Paislee’s devotion to making her son Brody her first priority. This mystery caught me by surprise. Who the murderer was and why was a shock for me. Looking forward to catching up and moving through this series. Outstanding narration. Enjoy!
dnf
May 22, 2023DNF at ch 12. Just not interested anymore. This is book 4 in the Scottish Shire Mystery series. I have read book 1, 2 and 3 and I got to chapter 12 of this story. This is just not a series for me. I don't find myself vibing with the characters anymore and the conversations surrounding astrology and other aspects are just not for me. I love cozy mysteries but this one isn't one for me. DNF at ch 12. Thank you to the publisher for a free copy to honestly read and review. I think if you like Scotland and Cozy Mysteries, you would enjoy this but I ultimatley am not interested anymore. I wish we had more romance - I think that would make me more interested.
January 17, 2023
2.5 stars
Pro:
* Unique method for the murder
* Grandpa Angus has a lot of air time.
* Paislee and Lydia’s friendship is heartwarming.
* Storyline finally picks up around 75%.
Con:
* Dialect is as offputting as it has been for the entire series.
* Remaining prose is mediocre, a bit dry.
* The subplot with Grandpa Angus’s son has become over the top. Enough already.
Honestly, this one was a chore to get through. There isn’t enough to keep me coming back for another book. Thank you to Traci Hall, Kensington Cozies, and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Pro:
* Unique method for the murder
* Grandpa Angus has a lot of air time.
* Paislee and Lydia’s friendship is heartwarming.
* Storyline finally picks up around 75%.
Con:
* Dialect is as offputting as it has been for the entire series.
* Remaining prose is mediocre, a bit dry.
* The subplot with Grandpa Angus’s son has become over the top. Enough already.
Honestly, this one was a chore to get through. There isn’t enough to keep me coming back for another book. Thank you to Traci Hall, Kensington Cozies, and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 30, 2023
Murder at a Scottish Wedding is a terrific fourth instalment to a cosy mystery series by Traci Hall and I found the book to be an extremely fun read.
I love the setting of Nairn, a delightful sounding Scottish town by the seaside, so imaginatively depicted by the author. Twenty-something single mum, Paislee Shaw has made a great life for herself, her son Brody and their black terrier, Wallace. Paislee's grandad, Angus also lives in her home. She owns Cashmere Crush, a bespoke speciality knitwear shop where the locals can while away their time at her 'Knit and Sips' group. A full cast of interesting characters complements the disorganised, very determined Paislee though not everyone was as they seemed. The plot was strong and comfortably paced, and the puzzling mysteries (there are two of them) kept me guessing. I enjoyed reading Murder at a Scottish Wedding and I am already anticipating another trip to Nairn and getting to know all of the characters to a greater degree. If you adore a fantastic cosy mystery with some romance and decent helpings of family angst and community spirit, don't miss out on Murder at a Scottish Wedding.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
I love the setting of Nairn, a delightful sounding Scottish town by the seaside, so imaginatively depicted by the author. Twenty-something single mum, Paislee Shaw has made a great life for herself, her son Brody and their black terrier, Wallace. Paislee's grandad, Angus also lives in her home. She owns Cashmere Crush, a bespoke speciality knitwear shop where the locals can while away their time at her 'Knit and Sips' group. A full cast of interesting characters complements the disorganised, very determined Paislee though not everyone was as they seemed. The plot was strong and comfortably paced, and the puzzling mysteries (there are two of them) kept me guessing. I enjoyed reading Murder at a Scottish Wedding and I am already anticipating another trip to Nairn and getting to know all of the characters to a greater degree. If you adore a fantastic cosy mystery with some romance and decent helpings of family angst and community spirit, don't miss out on Murder at a Scottish Wedding.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
January 26, 2023
Murder At A Scottish Wedding is the fourth book in the A Scottish Shire Mystery series by Traci Hall.
Paisley Shaw is the maid of honor for her best friend, Lydia, and they are in the final preparations before walking down the aisle. But the gold Luckenbooth brooch that her fiance, Corbin Smyth, has given her, a family tradition, is nowhere to be found. Lydia selects another pin and conceals it with part of her wedding dress, and they set off for the march down the aisle. But as they start, a Smyth cousin comes screaming from the restroom, saying she can’t see and stumbles down the front steps. Paisley finds the missing broch in the hand of the victim. The cousin is rushed to the hospital, where she soon dies. It’s soon learned that the brooch was covered with strychnine powder, so someone is trying to stop Lydia from marrying Corbin. Corbin’s stepmother has made it very clear that Lydia isn’t a suitable wife for Corbin. Corbin’s stepmother also claims that there is a curse on the brooch. Regardless if it’s a curse or someone wants to murder Lydia, Paisley and Lydia will combine their efforts to find out who was the murderer.
Paisley’s grandfather also plays a prominent role in this book. Grandpa continues his search for his missing son, Craigh. DI Zeffer, who Paisley usually deals with, spends most of his time searching for Craigh. DI Zeffer does share that Craigh has been working uncover for Scotland Yard but has recently gone missing.
The story is well-written and plotted. Plenty of red herrings kept me guessing until the end as to who the killer was. Most of the characters, who are well-developed and believable, are back again in this book. The book reads at a good pace and was hard for me to put down,
I’m looking forward to the next book is this enjoyable series.
Paisley Shaw is the maid of honor for her best friend, Lydia, and they are in the final preparations before walking down the aisle. But the gold Luckenbooth brooch that her fiance, Corbin Smyth, has given her, a family tradition, is nowhere to be found. Lydia selects another pin and conceals it with part of her wedding dress, and they set off for the march down the aisle. But as they start, a Smyth cousin comes screaming from the restroom, saying she can’t see and stumbles down the front steps. Paisley finds the missing broch in the hand of the victim. The cousin is rushed to the hospital, where she soon dies. It’s soon learned that the brooch was covered with strychnine powder, so someone is trying to stop Lydia from marrying Corbin. Corbin’s stepmother has made it very clear that Lydia isn’t a suitable wife for Corbin. Corbin’s stepmother also claims that there is a curse on the brooch. Regardless if it’s a curse or someone wants to murder Lydia, Paisley and Lydia will combine their efforts to find out who was the murderer.
Paisley’s grandfather also plays a prominent role in this book. Grandpa continues his search for his missing son, Craigh. DI Zeffer, who Paisley usually deals with, spends most of his time searching for Craigh. DI Zeffer does share that Craigh has been working uncover for Scotland Yard but has recently gone missing.
The story is well-written and plotted. Plenty of red herrings kept me guessing until the end as to who the killer was. Most of the characters, who are well-developed and believable, are back again in this book. The book reads at a good pace and was hard for me to put down,
I’m looking forward to the next book is this enjoyable series.
January 26, 2023
"Murder at a Scottish Wedding” the 4th instalment in the Scottish Shire Mystery series by Traci Hall. This has become one of my favourite Scottish cozy mysteries! I absolutely loved this instalment and can’t wait for book 5
As her friend’s matron of honor, Paislee Shaw vows to solve the mystery of a missing brooch and a dying wedding guest . . .
I loved that we had two mysteries to solve, Lydia missing Luckenbooth brooch and the death of Corbins cousin. I find the characters to be wonderful, full of Scottish pride and small village life, I wouldn’t mind living there myself and attending the Sip and Stitch.
Now I’m glad that Paislee, her son Brody and grandpa Angus are still together but with Craigh still in the picture who knows what will happen. Read on to find out all about Paislees uncle Craigh.
The mystery is interesting, well plotted, full of lots of twists and kept me guessing on whodunnit right to the reveal.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As her friend’s matron of honor, Paislee Shaw vows to solve the mystery of a missing brooch and a dying wedding guest . . .
I loved that we had two mysteries to solve, Lydia missing Luckenbooth brooch and the death of Corbins cousin. I find the characters to be wonderful, full of Scottish pride and small village life, I wouldn’t mind living there myself and attending the Sip and Stitch.
Now I’m glad that Paislee, her son Brody and grandpa Angus are still together but with Craigh still in the picture who knows what will happen. Read on to find out all about Paislees uncle Craigh.
The mystery is interesting, well plotted, full of lots of twists and kept me guessing on whodunnit right to the reveal.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Kensington Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 8, 2022
I really enjoy this cozy series that is set in Scotland. Paislee Shaw is the maid of honor for her best friend Lydia. Just before the wedding ceremony gets started, Lydia is upset the family heirloom brooch her wealthy fiance gave to her to wear on her wedding dress is missing. There is no time to find the brooch so they decide to go on with the wedding At the last second, a cousin of the groom disrupts the wedding by frantically running out of the church.. She breaks her neck in a fall, and they find the brooch nestled in her hand. Tests show the brooch was laced with poison. Someone was targeting Lydia and wanted to stop the wedding at all costs. Paislee is determined to find the murderer and keep her friend safe. This was a fun quick read. with lots of suspects, a good plot, and likeable characters. Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the advance copy. I enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next one!
August 5, 2022
Murder at a Scottish Wedding by Traci Hall is a wonderful cozy mystery that is the fourth book in the Scottish Shire Mystery series. I just love this series!
For an idealic and picturesque Scottish village, Nairn sees its fair share of hot messes, mysteries, and murders. And somehow, our main character, Paislee Shaw, is in the thick of it again as part of the wedding party of this murder/mystery. A relative murdered…a family heirloom that had been missing, found with the victim…is it the work of a villain, a curse, or even maybe a bit of both? Paislee has to find out for the happiness and safety of her bff Lydia, her community, her family, and herself.
I really have been enjoying this series and like its progression, and where it is going. Looking forward to the next adorable and entertaining cozy mystery.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/31/23.
For an idealic and picturesque Scottish village, Nairn sees its fair share of hot messes, mysteries, and murders. And somehow, our main character, Paislee Shaw, is in the thick of it again as part of the wedding party of this murder/mystery. A relative murdered…a family heirloom that had been missing, found with the victim…is it the work of a villain, a curse, or even maybe a bit of both? Paislee has to find out for the happiness and safety of her bff Lydia, her community, her family, and herself.
I really have been enjoying this series and like its progression, and where it is going. Looking forward to the next adorable and entertaining cozy mystery.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/31/23.
March 29, 2023
Is there anything better than a Scottish wedding, a mysterious heirloom brooch, and murder? I’m sure there is, but Murder at a Scottish Wedding will make readers believe there isn’t. Of course, it isn’t every day Paislee is a matron of honor at her best friend’s wedding, or that so much controversy surrounds the wedding and traditions. But when a missing brooch leads to murder, this wedding is one for the history books!
Paislee, Gramps, and Brody are some of my favorite characters. This series revolves around their lives, mainly Pasilee’s sweater and yarn shop, Gramps’ missing son, and Brody growing up. During a Scottish wedding filled with tension and tradition, an heirloom brooch the groom gave to Lydia mysteriously goes missing, and a guest stumbles to her death. When everyone is convinced the death was an accident, it turns into a murder investigation, and Paislee jumps in to solve both mysteries.
Suspects abound in this fourth book. Some are far-fetched, while others seem guilty from the start. The dead guest is found clutching the missing brooch, and all eyes turn to Lydia’s soon-to-be family and, eventually, to Lydia herself. Tracking down this killer isn’t easy, as the Scottish mentality of heritage, before all, gives readers pause for concern. I found Murder at a Scottish Wedding slow and challenging to comprehend. I understand putting family first, but pointing fingers at someone based on their heritage or financial status, has a feeling of meanness I don’t usually see in this series, and I am not a fan of either. There was not enough of Pasilee’s shop and its regulars, and the entire missing brooch angle was disappointing. I certainly expected more from that mystery. However, I found some side stories far more exciting and enjoyable. Many readers will be thrilled that some unanswered questions from the series finally have a solution. The killer is found in the nick of time, but I have to say, it didn’t come as a surprise. All of this said, I enjoyed most of the book and look forward to the next.
Paislee, Gramps, and Brody are some of my favorite characters. This series revolves around their lives, mainly Pasilee’s sweater and yarn shop, Gramps’ missing son, and Brody growing up. During a Scottish wedding filled with tension and tradition, an heirloom brooch the groom gave to Lydia mysteriously goes missing, and a guest stumbles to her death. When everyone is convinced the death was an accident, it turns into a murder investigation, and Paislee jumps in to solve both mysteries.
Suspects abound in this fourth book. Some are far-fetched, while others seem guilty from the start. The dead guest is found clutching the missing brooch, and all eyes turn to Lydia’s soon-to-be family and, eventually, to Lydia herself. Tracking down this killer isn’t easy, as the Scottish mentality of heritage, before all, gives readers pause for concern. I found Murder at a Scottish Wedding slow and challenging to comprehend. I understand putting family first, but pointing fingers at someone based on their heritage or financial status, has a feeling of meanness I don’t usually see in this series, and I am not a fan of either. There was not enough of Pasilee’s shop and its regulars, and the entire missing brooch angle was disappointing. I certainly expected more from that mystery. However, I found some side stories far more exciting and enjoyable. Many readers will be thrilled that some unanswered questions from the series finally have a solution. The killer is found in the nick of time, but I have to say, it didn’t come as a surprise. All of this said, I enjoyed most of the book and look forward to the next.
September 10, 2022
Paislee Shaw is at the Kirk, helping her best friend Lydia prepare for the latter's wedding. She's radiant in a silver wedding gown, and the only thing missing is the Luckenbooth brooch that her fiancé Corbin gave her. It is considered good luck in the Smythe family to wear it on one's wedding day, and she's frantic to find it.
But no amount of searching will recover it, and Lydia decides that if she wears another, a bit hidden by her flowers, no one might notice. Unfortunately, before Lydia can go down the aisle, a Smythe cousin emerges from the bathroom and promptly falls down the church stairs and dies. Now the family insists the wedding be postponed; and worse, some members make no bones about disliking Lydia.
To top things off, Paislee's grandfather is concerned for his missing son Craigh, and the police think he knows where Craigh is, even as Grandpa insists he hasn't seen him. Paislee has problems of her own, not the least of them her growing affection for Brody's principal and DI Zeffer.
Will anything get resolved? Will Lydia ever get married? Will the 'curse' be lifted? And most of all, will Paislee find a killer who might try to do her best friend in again...
This is the fourth book in the series and I have read them all. They have delighted me each one. In the first, I was a bit annoyed at the Scottish prose, but now I zipped through the book (I usually read a book a day) and felt almost like I was a local. It's an interesting twist that I was speaking Scottish in my head (ha).
The plot is so intriguing that I just could not put this book down. Having grown fond of the characters: Paislee, Grandpa, Brody, Lydia and even Wallace -- that I wanted them to have the best, and Lydia in this book seemed so sad and distraught for awhile that I actually felt like punching Corbin's stepmother. (You probably will, too).
There are many suspects as to whom the murderer is; the Smythe clan is tight, but there are many off them, and none of them are willing to give each other up. Paislee has her work cut out for her trying to figure it out...even if DI Payne is telling her to stay out of it each time she gives him another clue (no surprise there!) And Zeffer is on the hunt for someone so he's in and out of the story, but you see what is happening beneath the surface easily (and I won't tell you what).
The entire story is full of mystery, machinations, and secrets. It is well-told and has many twists, with the threads pulling in different directions. Yet when the ending comes and the murderer is revealed, we once again realize that no matter the intentions, you cannot understand the mind of a killer. I really loved this book and look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
But no amount of searching will recover it, and Lydia decides that if she wears another, a bit hidden by her flowers, no one might notice. Unfortunately, before Lydia can go down the aisle, a Smythe cousin emerges from the bathroom and promptly falls down the church stairs and dies. Now the family insists the wedding be postponed; and worse, some members make no bones about disliking Lydia.
To top things off, Paislee's grandfather is concerned for his missing son Craigh, and the police think he knows where Craigh is, even as Grandpa insists he hasn't seen him. Paislee has problems of her own, not the least of them her growing affection for Brody's principal and DI Zeffer.
Will anything get resolved? Will Lydia ever get married? Will the 'curse' be lifted? And most of all, will Paislee find a killer who might try to do her best friend in again...
This is the fourth book in the series and I have read them all. They have delighted me each one. In the first, I was a bit annoyed at the Scottish prose, but now I zipped through the book (I usually read a book a day) and felt almost like I was a local. It's an interesting twist that I was speaking Scottish in my head (ha).
The plot is so intriguing that I just could not put this book down. Having grown fond of the characters: Paislee, Grandpa, Brody, Lydia and even Wallace -- that I wanted them to have the best, and Lydia in this book seemed so sad and distraught for awhile that I actually felt like punching Corbin's stepmother. (You probably will, too).
There are many suspects as to whom the murderer is; the Smythe clan is tight, but there are many off them, and none of them are willing to give each other up. Paislee has her work cut out for her trying to figure it out...even if DI Payne is telling her to stay out of it each time she gives him another clue (no surprise there!) And Zeffer is on the hunt for someone so he's in and out of the story, but you see what is happening beneath the surface easily (and I won't tell you what).
The entire story is full of mystery, machinations, and secrets. It is well-told and has many twists, with the threads pulling in different directions. Yet when the ending comes and the murderer is revealed, we once again realize that no matter the intentions, you cannot understand the mind of a killer. I really loved this book and look forward to the next in the series. Highly recommended.
I received an advance copy from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
May 24, 2024
Like catching up with old friends and hearing what's going on. This is #4 in the series. They can be read in any order; however, the comfort and charm they bring is forfeited.
This is my least favorite in the series for a couple reasons: My best friend is marrying an extremely wealthy man, his family doesn't approve and someone dies trope makes me want to scream -- no. There was too much time spent on the non Scottish Shire storyline. I missed the cashmere chatter.
This felt like Paislee, Grandpa, Brody and Wallace were guest starring like in the 70 & 80 detective shows.
I wouldn't pass this up and look forward to #5 (Castle).
This is my least favorite in the series for a couple reasons: My best friend is marrying an extremely wealthy man, his family doesn't approve and someone dies trope makes me want to scream -- no. There was too much time spent on the non Scottish Shire storyline. I missed the cashmere chatter.
This felt like Paislee, Grandpa, Brody and Wallace were guest starring like in the 70 & 80 detective shows.
I wouldn't pass this up and look forward to #5 (Castle).
January 21, 2023
A wedding is to take place, until the broch goes missing, then a family member dies just before the ceremony. With the missing broch there's more going on than most knew. This book takes you for a spin. I truly love this author's work.
Her books are written so well, they keep you on your toes, wating for the next Book in the story.
Thank you Traci Hall.
Her books are written so well, they keep you on your toes, wating for the next Book in the story.
Thank you Traci Hall.
October 13, 2024
Ok this one - THIS one is my favorite of the series so far.
January 25, 2023
Murder at a Scottish Wedding is Book 4 in the Scottish Shire Mystery series by Traci Hall.
This was a great book and I love the setting in Scotland.
It's what I have been waiting for, Lydia and Corbin are getting married.
Unfortunately, one of Corbin's cousins dies. There is a great amount of mystery here, not just the death. Curses, multiple mysteries, a very dysfunctional family make this a fantastic read.
There are twists, red herrings, and romance that I really enjoyed.
This was a great book and I love the setting in Scotland.
It's what I have been waiting for, Lydia and Corbin are getting married.
Unfortunately, one of Corbin's cousins dies. There is a great amount of mystery here, not just the death. Curses, multiple mysteries, a very dysfunctional family make this a fantastic read.
There are twists, red herrings, and romance that I really enjoyed.
January 20, 2023
Murder at a Scottish Wedding, the fourth book in the series, comes out January 24th. I was able to read an ARC thanks to @netgalley and @kensingtonbooks. This book was outstanding. It had a lot of tension and high stakes and I was honestly frantically turning pages for the last 30% of the book at least. Not only was the main mystery engrossing because Paislee’s dear friend Lydia may be in danger, but the overarching plotline of Paislee’s grandpa and his worries about his son Craigh also brings a lot of intensity. I know that cozy mysteries always end up OK, so I think it’s impressive when an author can keep me on the edge of my seat.
This series has all the required elements that cozy mystery fans demand: a plucky small business owner, a lovely group of friends/family, a charming small town, and an adorable cozy companion. But it also has extra heart that makes it just that bit more special to me. Paislee is trying to do her best as a mom, as a granddaughter, and as a friend, not to mention as a business owner. Some of the mom moments she has touch very close to home for me, especially since my child is close to the age of Paislee’s son. I am 100% invested in Paislee’s journey and can’t wait to read more in the series. Don’t even get me started on my anxieties about her potential love life! I look forward to seeing where this series goes next.
This series has all the required elements that cozy mystery fans demand: a plucky small business owner, a lovely group of friends/family, a charming small town, and an adorable cozy companion. But it also has extra heart that makes it just that bit more special to me. Paislee is trying to do her best as a mom, as a granddaughter, and as a friend, not to mention as a business owner. Some of the mom moments she has touch very close to home for me, especially since my child is close to the age of Paislee’s son. I am 100% invested in Paislee’s journey and can’t wait to read more in the series. Don’t even get me started on my anxieties about her potential love life! I look forward to seeing where this series goes next.
January 21, 2023
As Matron of Honor at her best friend Lydia’s wedding, Paislee is finding the job may be a little more challenging than she thought. Lydia is marrying Corbin Smythe whose family is very wealthy and whose mother-in-law, Mary, is extremely superstitious! Corbin has picked out a Luckenbooth brooch, a family heirloom, to give to Lydia. After a psychic reading alerts Mary that Lydia does not belong in the family and will fall victim to the brooch’s curse, Mary begins to break up the marriage. While the wedding party is out taking pictures, the brooch goes missing, leading to a frantic search. Just as the wedding ceremony is to begin, Corbin’s cousin falls down the stairs to her death with the brooch found in her hand. Now, Paislee must prove the brooch was not to blame, but actually the catalyst for an attempted murder on her friend. Will Paislee be able to solve and prove it was murder in time to save Lydia from death?
While reading this series, you will find yourself transported to the land of Scotland. The descriptions and dialect will pull you in and keep you reading, I had trouble putting it down. The plot is well-thought out and all my favorite secondary characters were on hand. The continued storyline featuring Paislee’s grandfather is evolving as changes are taking place and decisions must be made. The family dynamic is so heartwarming between Paislee, Angus, and her son Brody. I can appreciate Paislee’s worry as a mother, watching her son navigate through boyhood. Lydia’s parents are delightful, and I hope we continue to see them in future installments. There were several clues to decipher since nearly everyone involved in the wedding had secrets. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another clue would throw me off! This is a charming and well-crafted cozy. Traci is a very talented storyteller that does not disappoint. The next book cannot come out soon enough!
I received an advanced copy through the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
While reading this series, you will find yourself transported to the land of Scotland. The descriptions and dialect will pull you in and keep you reading, I had trouble putting it down. The plot is well-thought out and all my favorite secondary characters were on hand. The continued storyline featuring Paislee’s grandfather is evolving as changes are taking place and decisions must be made. The family dynamic is so heartwarming between Paislee, Angus, and her son Brody. I can appreciate Paislee’s worry as a mother, watching her son navigate through boyhood. Lydia’s parents are delightful, and I hope we continue to see them in future installments. There were several clues to decipher since nearly everyone involved in the wedding had secrets. Just when I thought I had it figured out, another clue would throw me off! This is a charming and well-crafted cozy. Traci is a very talented storyteller that does not disappoint. The next book cannot come out soon enough!
I received an advanced copy through the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2023
It took me awhile to get into this fourth entry in the Scottish Shire cozy mystery series. But once I got into it, I quite enjoyed both the mysteries and the various relationship issues that appeared in the book.
As the book begins, knitting shop owner Paislee is at her best friend Lydia's wedding. Well, it should have been her wedding, but before the event occurs a valuable brooch is stolen various people claim the potential wedding is cursed, and a family member dies.
Lydia's fiancee is part of a very large, wealthy family, and I found virtually all of them despicable. Her fiancee also seems to stick by his family rather than by Lydia. When it appears that Lydia was intended to be murdered, Paislee, her grandfather, and Lydia all begin to investigate the murder.
We also have the over-arching mystery of Paislee's missing half-uncle (the cause of her grandfather and grandmother's breakup). Add in an attractive detective, and there's a lot going on.
Once I got past the initial sections that had far too much of the awful family, I enjoyed this, and look forward to reading the next in the series.
As the book begins, knitting shop owner Paislee is at her best friend Lydia's wedding. Well, it should have been her wedding, but before the event occurs a valuable brooch is stolen various people claim the potential wedding is cursed, and a family member dies.
Lydia's fiancee is part of a very large, wealthy family, and I found virtually all of them despicable. Her fiancee also seems to stick by his family rather than by Lydia. When it appears that Lydia was intended to be murdered, Paislee, her grandfather, and Lydia all begin to investigate the murder.
We also have the over-arching mystery of Paislee's missing half-uncle (the cause of her grandfather and grandmother's breakup). Add in an attractive detective, and there's a lot going on.
Once I got past the initial sections that had far too much of the awful family, I enjoyed this, and look forward to reading the next in the series.
August 15, 2022
Lydia and Corbin’s big day has finally arrived. It’s time for Lydia to walk down the aisle but the brooch that Corbin gave her is nowhere to be found, and it’s considered to be bad luck not to wear it. Deciding to forgo the brooch, Lydia is about to start down the aisle but one of Corbin’s cousins appears then falls down the church steps. There she lies, with the brooch in her hand.
Was the cousin murderer? more importantly, was Lydia The target instead? While Paisley’s Maid of Honor duties may be over, her BFF and sleuthing duties are on tap now. Can Paisley figure out what happened, who the intended target was, and find the murderer? Or will The killer strike again and?
I really enjoy this series, as well as Traci Hall’s Mrs. Morris and the Ghost series. Paisley and Lydia have a long friendship making them more like sisters than just besties. Brody and Grandad round out Paisley’s family and Wallace is the icing on the Shaw family’s cake! I love that Wallace got some more action in this book…my two Scotties agree and say Arooo, Wallace!
Was the cousin murderer? more importantly, was Lydia The target instead? While Paisley’s Maid of Honor duties may be over, her BFF and sleuthing duties are on tap now. Can Paisley figure out what happened, who the intended target was, and find the murderer? Or will The killer strike again and?
I really enjoy this series, as well as Traci Hall’s Mrs. Morris and the Ghost series. Paisley and Lydia have a long friendship making them more like sisters than just besties. Brody and Grandad round out Paisley’s family and Wallace is the icing on the Shaw family’s cake! I love that Wallace got some more action in this book…my two Scotties agree and say Arooo, Wallace!
August 9, 2022
Murder at a Scottish Wedding is a cozy mystery with characters you want to sit down and talk to. Paisley runs a sweater business in a delightful town in Scotland.
Paisley is the maid of honor for her friend Lydia. Before walking down the aisle Lydia realizes she is missing an heirloom brooch. Not only is it a precious keepsake, superstition for good or bad luck is embodied. Rather than stop the wedding the service begins,. A shriek from the groom's cousin stops everything - and suddenly murder is part of the equation. Even worse is that the brooch is found in her hand.
This leaves an upset couple and Paisley as the sleuth who must solve the crime,
If you enjoy Scotland and want to read about details of a small village and interesting characters - this is the book for you
Paisley is the maid of honor for her friend Lydia. Before walking down the aisle Lydia realizes she is missing an heirloom brooch. Not only is it a precious keepsake, superstition for good or bad luck is embodied. Rather than stop the wedding the service begins,. A shriek from the groom's cousin stops everything - and suddenly murder is part of the equation. Even worse is that the brooch is found in her hand.
This leaves an upset couple and Paisley as the sleuth who must solve the crime,
If you enjoy Scotland and want to read about details of a small village and interesting characters - this is the book for you
January 23, 2023
Thank you at Kensington/Kensington Cozies and Traci Hall for this ARC. I loved this story! The Scottish brogue and all. Lydia and Corbin were a match made in heaven, had it not been for the Smythe Clan and all its underhanded antics. Mary the stepmother and her daughters were evil personified! And they got their just rewards! Paislee as one of my favorite characters, a good mother, a loving granddaughter, an all around down to earth good person. I have to say, I did not know what a luckenbooth brooch was, but I of course checked into those. All around I would say I would highly recommend this book, for its charm and wit, and but of course a very happy ending! Thank you again Traci Hall for a wonderful read, and looking forward to reading more of your books.
October 10, 2022
I found myself wrapped up in this story early on, this particular story had several different twists, which I enjoyed.
Paisley Shaw is preparing for her best friends wedding, however, things don't go to smoothly and the wedding is called off.
The characters in this series are quite likable and each book shows me a different side of one of them.
I'm happy to recommend this series to all cozy mystery fans.
#MurderataScottishWedding #NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
Paisley Shaw is preparing for her best friends wedding, however, things don't go to smoothly and the wedding is called off.
The characters in this series are quite likable and each book shows me a different side of one of them.
I'm happy to recommend this series to all cozy mystery fans.
#MurderataScottishWedding #NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
December 6, 2025
4 stelle e mezza (e ZERO a GR perché mi tocca riscrivere la recensione perché la prima volta non ha salvato e postato nulla!!!)
In questo libro ci sono due misteri: uno riguardava lo zio della protagonista e si stava trascinando dal primo volume, per cui sono contenta che si sia risolto; l'altro riguardava la migliore amica della protagonista ed è stato quello che mi è piaciuto di più. Alla fine del libro sembra prospettare un triangolo amoroso per la protagonista: è una cosa che non mi piace molto e spero che non si trascinerà per libri e libri...
In questo libro ci sono due misteri: uno riguardava lo zio della protagonista e si stava trascinando dal primo volume, per cui sono contenta che si sia risolto; l'altro riguardava la migliore amica della protagonista ed è stato quello che mi è piaciuto di più. Alla fine del libro sembra prospettare un triangolo amoroso per la protagonista: è una cosa che non mi piace molto e spero che non si trascinerà per libri e libri...
January 23, 2024
Just to be clear... I am a sucker for anything Scottish! I woke up to a cold, dark day with icy rain dinging off the windows. What better to hunker down with a blanket, a cup of tea and a Scottish murder mystery book. The book had a rather obvious plot, with the usual abundance of characters who could have done the deed. The author did a good job with character development and made the locations come alive.there were the usual plot lines, but Hall did a nice job of changing things up and offering enough red herrings that it was a fun read. The day was long, the book was short. It was the perfect read for such a day.
August 28, 2023
Murder and mayhem!
If only it was Just a murder! So much trouble in Paislee's world, no one is safe. I love these characters so it was painful to read the mayhem broiling all around them! Thank Goodness there were a few laughs!
If only it was Just a murder! So much trouble in Paislee's world, no one is safe. I love these characters so it was painful to read the mayhem broiling all around them! Thank Goodness there were a few laughs!
February 8, 2025
Another great book, I couldn't put it down. I adore Paisley and her family. The audiobook is incredible. I am going to be saying loads of Scottish phrases.
November 10, 2024
Another cozy mystery that takes place in Nairn, Scotland. It makes me want to visit this town that is supposed to have the best weather in Scotland.
August 10, 2022
ARC Kindle Copy from Review from Net Galley and Kensington Books.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
The bride’s brooch goes missing before her wedding which was given by the groom-to-be. It is a family heirloom which is said to be a love token bringing luck to the couple or a curse.
A distraught cousin ends up dead during the ceremony holding the said brooch. Paislee will once again be in the middle of things as maid of honor. Will she be able to save her friend nuptials?
Quick paced cozy read in this Scottish series.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
The bride’s brooch goes missing before her wedding which was given by the groom-to-be. It is a family heirloom which is said to be a love token bringing luck to the couple or a curse.
A distraught cousin ends up dead during the ceremony holding the said brooch. Paislee will once again be in the middle of things as maid of honor. Will she be able to save her friend nuptials?
Quick paced cozy read in this Scottish series.
February 11, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: Paislee is the matron of honour at her best firiend Lydia’s wedding to “the love of her life”, Corbin. But Corbin’s rich, haughty and titled family are far from welcoming no matter how many hoops Lydia has jumped. Coribin’s step mother and her two daughters are the worst offenders who are prepared to do almost anything to stop the nuptials. But are they willing to attempt to kill the bride? When a murder occurs where Lydia was the obvious intended victim, I was ready to tell Lydia to run. As far as she could away from this family. And then as things become more complicated and nastier, Corbin never takes Lydia’s side. I kept waiting for her to tell her fiance and his entire family where to go.
It was a shame because the mystery that Paislee unravelled was a good one. Corbin did redeem himself, somewhat, by the end but if you care about the characters, when one gets shafted by a character who should have had her back, it detracts from the enjoyment of the story. It made the ending less satisfying because I had real reservations about Corbin’s character. Four purrs and one paw up.
It was a shame because the mystery that Paislee unravelled was a good one. Corbin did redeem himself, somewhat, by the end but if you care about the characters, when one gets shafted by a character who should have had her back, it detracts from the enjoyment of the story. It made the ending less satisfying because I had real reservations about Corbin’s character. Four purrs and one paw up.
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